Shady Oak Beach lifeguards took first place at the fourth annual Lifeguard Competition on Sunday, July 26. Four lifeguards represented the beach in the competition, while three additional staff members served as judges and scenario volunteers.

20 teams from across the region competed in a series of realistic emergency response scenarios designed to test lifeguarding, first aid and teamwork skills. Scenarios included treating a patron with a knocked-out tooth and bruised knee before responding to an infant requiring CPR and rescue breaths, managing a spinal injury in the water while addressing rule violations from other patrons, and performing active drowning rescues. Teams also participated in fun, team-building challenges throughout the event.

This marks Shady Oak Beach's second first-place finish in the competition. The team earned second place in the other two years it participated.

The annual competition, which was highlighted by KARE-TV,  provides lifeguards with an opportunity to sharpen their emergency response skills, strengthen teamwork and connect with lifeguards from agencies across the region.

Shady Oak Beach is a popular summer regional destination welcoming thousands of visitors each season. Open daily during the summer, the beach offers swimming, a sandy beach, concessions, rentals, swimming lessons and recreational programming for all ages. Visitors can purchase daily admission or seasonal passes and enjoy amenities including picnic areas, a playground and nearby trails throughout the season.