After Woolacombe SLSC finished 2024 as National Super Club, Woolacombe Nippers has once again demonstrated excellence in the sport, winning the first event of the 2025 competition season held at Tarka Leisure Centre on 8th February. This marks an incredible 14th consecutive victory for the club at the Devons.
The event, organised and supported by the Devon Committee of Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB) officials, saw teams from across the region come together for a thrilling day of competition. With the pool awash in Woolacombe blue, the atmosphere was electric as the young Nippers took the competition by storm.
From 8950 points available across all events, Woolacombe finished on an outstanding 3482 points, taking the title home and achieving an average of 41.95 points per competitor. Second place was secured by Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay in third. Leading the charge to collate 48 Gold medals, were Otti Abram Thorn, under 10, and Sophie Lamb, under 11, who both won gold medals in every individual event.
The day was divided into two sessions, with the 8-10-year-olds competing in the morning and the 11-13-year-olds taking to the water in the afternoon. Across all age groups, competitors took part in a range of challenging events, including the individual flipper, manikin and board races, board and tube rescue, and board and medley relays. The older age groups also competed in the demanding manikin relay as well. With so many races and a busy pool, the Nippers showcased their versatile skills with composure and confidence. All the events teach the Nippers critical water survival skills and many go on to patrol our coastline and save lives.
Jacqui Southam, Woolacombe team manager, expressed her immense pride in the team’s performance. “Along with the success they bring to the club, their hard work, commitment, determination, effort and most importantly fun is just contagious.”
The day went like clockwork and the event’s success would not have been possible without the hard work and support of all team managers, coaches, parents, helpers and officials. Sandy Brown OBE summarised the event, “The champs were one of the best we’ve ever had due to the super performances of the children and the support of all the teams attending”. Woolacombe Nippers extend their thanks to everyone who contributed their time and effort to make the day a memorable one.
With this victory hopefully setting the tone for the season, Woolacombe Nippers are looking ahead to the challenges and competitions to come – March 29th and 30th is the National Surf Life Saving Still Water Championships held at Cardiff International Pool. The Nippers train hard every Saturday at Ilfracombe pool, but once Spring arrives it is beach training on a Sunday morning down at Woolacombe beach.
Our club provides a supportive environment where members can develop their skills and contribute to the success of our team. Whether you’re experienced in SLS or new to the sport, there’s a place for you in our Woolacombe community.
For further information on joining our club, please contact:
Club Manager – Jacqui Southam
nippers@woolacombesurfliesaversclub.org
