Pasha Hawaii Supports Lifeguard Training for National Championships

Wednesday, August 31, 2005

(Corte Madera, CA) – www.pashahawaii.com – In the spirit of community support, Pasha Hawaii donated the transportation of a 20-foot dory from San Diego to Honolulu for use by Hawaii’s lifeguard team. Also known as a surfboat, the dory is a small rowing vessel used by Team Hawaii in practice sessions leading up to the U.S. Lifesaving Association’s National Lifeguard Championship. This competition plays an active role in the international exchange of information and public education efforts to save people from injury and drowning.

During three days in August, close to 1,000 of the best U.S. lifeguards descended on the shores of Virginia Beach for the 35th annual Championship. About 40 teams competed in two divisions, based on the size of their group. Team Hawaii’s chapter, Aloha Surf Lifesaving, placed fourth in the overall competition for their division.

In the championship’s 12 competitive events, two of the most grueling involve the use of a dory.

Individuals participate in the Iron Man and Iron Woman competition, which includes three different 300-meter segments -- swim, rescue board paddle, and the dory - - with 100-meter runs between each segment.

The other dory event utilizes the surfboat with two persons to row in three 1,000-meter laps through the surf course.

Between laps, one rower from each team runs to the beach flag, around it, and then returns to the dory. Although powered rescue crafts have replaced the surfboats at most U.S. beaches, these challenging races continue to play a large role in the national competition.

"Without having a practice surfboat at home, Team Hawaii has been unable to participate in the dory events at nationals," said Matt Dubrule, Captain of Team Hawaii. "Our goal is compete in every event. Because Pasha brought us the practice dory, we’ll now be able to participate in everything the championship has to offer."

"Pasha Hawaii is delighted to donate the transportation and handling of the dory for Team Hawaii," said Brian L. Black, managing director for The Pasha Group in Hawaii. "Individuals participating in lifesaving and rescue operations are essential, especially in Hawaii where we are so involved with ocean activities. We are confident Team Hawaii will convert their dory workouts into enhanced skills and greater lifesaving capabilities."