Courtesy of WOWSA, Huntington Beach, California.

While boats (of all kinds) have been the standard marine vessel for generations of open water swimmers, the evolution of movement of safety personnel on an open water swim has been important.

The integration of boats, RIBs, IRBs, paddle boards, kayaks, surf skis (Jetskis), and stand up paddle boards in events has enabled volunteers and lifeguards to offer higher levels of safety at open water races.

Not only are stand up paddle boarders appreciated by open water swimmers because they stand upright on their boards making them much easier to see from water level, but the stand up paddle boarders also have an improved vantage point to see more of the course and the field of swimmers due to their higher position in the water.

The relationship between swimmers and paddle boarders will grow and evolve and will continue to be appreciated by those stroking along at the surface.

To learn more about stand up paddle boards, this film may be educational and inspirational:



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