Young athletes from the Whakatāne Surf Lifesaving Club delivered outstanding performances at Oceans 26: Festival of Junior Lifesaving, held at Pāpāmoa Beach.

From 19–22 February, 731 athletes from 52 clubs across Aotearoa competed in individual and team events, vying for coveted podium spots.

Club coach Simon Wills said the commitment shown by the club’s 10–14-year-old competitors was exceptional.

The Oceans squad has grown to 30 and Wills is proud of the energy the squad brings to training and competition.

“Athletes train for around four months leading into Oceans, with regional competitions throughout summer. The progress we see each season is remarkable. Competing in open ocean conditions at this age is no small feat.”

“Training for surf lifesaving builds confidence, resilience and a deep understanding of the sea — essential life skills. Ultimately, we hope to see many of these young athletes become surf lifeguards in the future. That’s what it’s all about.”

Several Whakatāne athletes secured podium finishes.

● Liam Lawrence claimed gold in the Under 13 Male Beach Flags.

● Riley Miskell earned silver in the Under 12 Board Race.

● Angus Bain powered to bronze in the Surf Swim Race.

A standout performance came from Gus Fletcher (Under 11 Boys), who achieved the rare feat of securing three medals across the four-day competition – bronze in the Diamond (swim and board race), silver in the Surf Swim Race, and gold in the Board Race.

Competing at Oceans for the first time, Gus described the experience as unforgettable.

“I was really happy with how I went. There was pretty tough competition. Thanks to our coach, Simon, for pushing us and making us work for our results.”

This season also marked the introduction of a new Whakatane Surf Lifesaving Club Board Academy for under-10 athletes preparing to join the Oceans training squad for 2026/27. The academy is coached by former club president Hamish Reid, who says the initiative is already paying dividends.

“There’s a significant step up from the Sunday Junior Surf programme to Oceans-level training on larger kneeboards. The academy helps bridge that gap, and the group has progressed significantly over the summer.”

 The club’s Junior Surf programme has grown substantially in recent years, now supporting nearly 200 young members. Club president Phil Williams said the programme delivered benefits far beyond competition.

“From the age of five, children can join to build water confidence and learn how to read changing ocean conditions. Held every Sunday morning during the summer months, it’s a great way to keep the kids active while having fun.

“The pathway to becoming a surf lifeguard begins with the Rookie programme, before completing their Surf Lifeguard Award at 14. Our goal is to encourage more young people to become lifeguards – helping keep our beaches safe while developing resilient, capable young adults.”

Largely volunteer-led, the club relies on the generous support of sponsors including Harcourts Whakatāne, Xiliet, Body in Motion, Race One and New World Whakatāne. Mr Williams said community backing was critical to sustaining the club’s growth and success.

Next on the surf lifesaving calendar is the pinnacle domestic event – the 2026 Aon New Zealand Surf Lifesaving Championships – for athletes aged 15 and over.

They will be held at Ōhope next week, from Thursday to Sunday, with nearly 1400 athletes representing 46 clubs expected to compete

It will be the first time in a decade that the nationals have been held in the Eastern Bay.