Lifesavers join forces in squad

Jessica Benton
LOCAL surf lifesavers are joining forces in preparation for a championship carnival this weekend.
Beach sprint and flags competitors from Jan Juc, Anglesea and Ocean Grove surf life saving clubs have formed a joint Surf Coast squad to hone their skills in the lead up to the premier state event.
The squad includes Angelsea club member Hayley Atkins, Ocean Grove’s Jamie Soldani and and Peter Hapgood and Jan Juc’s Molly Blanchtonette.
Ms Atkins said the group had put aside their club caps to train together in the squad.
“Most training is based in Melbourne and, leading into the state titles, you really need extra training, competition and someone there by your side,” she said.
“Everyone’s times have come down since we started training together.
“In a short space of time we’ve formed a close bond.”
However, Ms Atkins said the competitive streak would return tomorrow morning when the squad members lined up at Ocean Grove’s main beach for the Victorian Surf Life Saving Championships.
“On Saturday morning everyone will switch into competition mode,” she said.
Mr Hapgood is a strong contender for the under-15s competition, while Ms Blanchtonette is the “up-and-coming” under 17s competitor.
Ms Atkins and Ms Soldani will battle it out in an open female category.
Ms Atkins hoped more clubs would join the squad next season.
“The goal is to get a Surf Coast squad together for next year’s off-season, all the way from Geelong right down to Lorne,” she said.
“We definitely want to keep it up on a permanent basis.”