TORONTO, ON – Canada’s National Team placed 12th overall in a field of 35 in the National Teams division of the World Lifesaving Championships in Viareggio, Italy. Canada took second place (behind Great Britain and ahead of Sweden) in the Simulated Emergency Response Competition (SERC).

Australia, New Zealand and South Africa took the National Teams overall gold, silver and bronze (respectively), the same ranking they enjoyed in the open water events. Germany, Italy and Spain ranked first, second and third respectively, in pool events.

Rescue 2004 organizers are scrambling to cope with the record 190 teams (1,123 competitors) who have entered the championships. The original schedule is a non-starter, with an average of over 400 competitors per individual event and 166 entries in relays. A record 79 teams have entered SERC. There are 44 heats of Super Lifesaver (Ironguard) in the pool and 202 competitors are entered in the open water Ironguard event.

“I don’t know how they’ll do it,” said Doug Ferguson, Canadian Sport Commissioner. “There simply aren’t enough hours in the days available.”

Interclub competition begins tomorrow with Canadian teams Carleton Place Lifeguard Association, Québec Élite, Toronto Police Lifeguard Services and Canadian Forces Lifesaving Team.

You can track results at www.rescue2004.com.