Bloemfontein lifesaver Len-Douglas MacKay has qualified for the 2025 Lifesaving World Games.
MacKay, who swims for the University of the Free State’s Kovsies, won the men’s section at the South African Lifesaving Pool Championships in Durban from 25 to 27 March. The sea events from 21 to 23 March were cancelled due to rough sea conditions.
MacKay was the overall male winner. He won four events, came second in three, and was third in three.
He won the 100 m tube and tow, and the 200 m super lifesaver events. MacKay’s team also came first in the 4 x 50 m obstacle relay and 4×50 m lifesaver relay.
He placed second in the 200 m obstacle swim and 100 m manikin carry with fins, and his team finished second in the 4 x 50 m medley relay.
He came third in the 200 m medley rescue and 50 m manikin carry, with his team being third in the 4 x 25 m manikin relay.
MacKay achieved world qualifying times in the 200 m super lifesaver, the 100 m tow and tube, and the 4 x 50 m medley relay.
MacKay will take part in the Senior National Swim Championships in Gqeberha next week. He trains with Marko Markgraaf, Chantel Smith (Bloemfontein Lifesaving Club) and Paul Lynch (Kings Beach).
The South African lifesaving team that will compete in Australia will be announced later this week.
