Competitions

Nippers are required to pass the Lifesaving Western Province Nipper Examinations to ensure that they are competent before being allowed to compete.

Nippers compete in three age groups: under 10, under 12 and under 14. The age of the child as at 30 September at the start of the season determines in which age group the nipper competes.

Nippers must be 8 years old for the Level 1 Examination, which enables them to compete in the under 10 category. When nippers turn 10 they complete their Level 2 Examination and compete in the under 12 category. When they turn 12 they complete their Level 3 Examination to compete in the under 14 age group.

Before sitting for the nipper examinations, nippers must be able to complete a pool swim in the following times:

• U10 300m in under 8 min
• U12 400m in under 10 min
• U14 400m in under 9 min

Examinations usually take place on the Sunday before a Nipper Competition. An exam fee is required together with a certified copy of the nipper’s birth certificate and a signed indemnity form. Included in the fee is the Nipper Book that is used for all Level exams. Contact the Nipper Officer for more information.

Once a nipper turns 14 he, or she may enrol for the Lifeguard Award and moves up to the junior lifeguard ranks.