Surfathlon

World Life Saving Championships Report
Dani Dani Perks age 19 and Doreen Lawrence age 64 of Perranporth Surf Life Saving Club have just returned from the World Championships 2008 in Germany, proving that the sport has no age barrier – both winning Bronze Medals.

Dani represented Great Britain and managed to achieve a Bronze Medal in a Pool Event, and got into 3 finals in Beach Sprint, Beach Flags and Ocean Rescue Tube events, this was her first World’s Championships.

Doreen who has been part of the Club for many years, and has competed in World Champs in previous years, did not disappoint us in Germany - proving that age has no barrier in this sport. Doreen achieved 2 bronze medals in Beach Sprint and Beach Flags.

Following on from the All Nations competition and then the Masters competition came the Inter Clubs where Perranporth put forward a very young but strong team. The Girl’s Team was represented by Dani Perks, Mel Perks, Lucy Williams and Sophie Tregenna. The Boy’s team was Dan Goodway, Chris Trethewey, Jason Wheeler and Michael Birchmore. These feisty teams fought hard to achieve their best in the Ocean and Beach events against older and more experienced competitors, some being the World’s best. They managed to win heats, quarter finals and semis and narrowly missing places in the finals. After competing in 30+ degrees for 4 days they moved to Berlin where they had to start all over again in the Pool events. Again they gave their best, the girls finalled in 2 events.

This has spurred this very young team of individuals to continue to strive towards medal positions in the next World Champs, which will be held on home ground in Newquay in 2010.

The Masters Team who competed in the previous week’s competition were very successful achieving between them 33 medals. All veterans competing at this level. Congratulations to Simon Lawrence (Club Coach), James Marsh, Barry Frost, Matt Thomas, Paul Richards, Lindsay Anderson, Matt Garner, John Arnold, Cam Wylie, Jon Williams, Craig Fisher, Cinde Fisher, Nick Deards & Graeme Milne who put Perranporth on the World Map.

Duncan Newby
Duncan Newby, an Honorary Life Member and dear friend of many at the club, passed away on the afternoon of Saturday 12 July. For well over 30 years, Duncan was a member of the Club, working as a lifeguard and as a keen competitor - always with Perranporth SLSC embedded in his heart. He was a very talented swimmer and generously passed on his swimming knowledge to Club members for many years, as well as coaching around the county and coaching future coaches. For the past few years he had been battling a particularly aggressive form of cancer. He fought through the pain many times, continuing to coach, compete and inspire others when he was able.
We remember him for his inspiration and compassion and the sheer bravery he showed in recent years with his wife, Marie, by his side, always, offering quiet, dignified support. Both have shown immense courage and offer an nspiring example for all of us to follow. We are very grateful that Duncan very kindly nominated Perranporth SLSC as the recipient charity for any donations others would like to make in celebration of his remarkable life.

Donations may be sent to: Karen Longstaff, Club Administrator. 13 St Georges Hill, Perranporth, Cornwall, TR6 0DZ