The 40th Japan National Lifesaving Championship was held at Katase Nishihama Beach from 11th – 12th October 2014 and was organised by the Japanese Lifesaving Association (JLA). 1,285 competitors from 57 teams who have won their way through the branch competitions gathered from all around Japan for the National Titles. The big swell from the recent typhoon hit the event making the races exciting.

With the men’s board race, 7-8 athletes were all catching the same big wave. The gold medal went to the first one to stand up and make a sprint with the board. Surf Skis were flying up high vertical in the sky. New champions rose in many events showing that the new generation is arriving. At the same venue, a Junior Lifesaving Programme ( CPR and beach flags demo) was also held.

The JLA went for a new challenge this year: live movie shots using drone technology. The images were shown big screen for spectators who could be in the middle of the race and witness the excitement thereof. The video is at: http://vimeo.com/108877975.

The 40th Japan National Lifesaving Championships Digest from Yuhki Endoh (AIR FLEET) on Vimeo.

Article submitted by International Affairs – Japan Lifesaving Association