If you are looking for a one of a kind family event in Ocean City; you’re in luck! This Saturday marks the 40th annual Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) Crew Competition. Be on hand as nearly 200 members of OCBP gather to compete in the annual intra-squad competitions between the division’s various crews. The event takes place Saturday, July 30th, on the beach at North Division and will host 17 crews of guards from the OCBP.

“Our annual crew competition has great spectator appeal and visitors to Ocean City are encouraged to come out and support the lifeguards from their beach,” commented Ocean City Beach Patrol Captain, Butch Arbin. The popular event is a high-energy competition, that’s a favorite for both tourists and locals alike. According to Arbin, “Even area businesses get into the act, showing support for the lifesaving crews from their area by providing banners, uniforms, and food to show their appreciation for the work our lifeguards do every day by keeping their patrons safe.”

The Guards will show off their athletic skills in the following events:

  • Run Swim Run Relay: A team of guards from the same crew will combine their most basic lifesaving skills of running and swimming as they hand off a rescue buoy.
  • Land Line: A team of guards from the same crew will rescue a swimmer in distress by swimming out a 150 meter line and then be pulled to shore with the “victim” by other members of the crew.
  • Paddle Board Relay: A team of guards from the same crew will paddle out 150 meter on a 11 foot rescue board and return to shore before handing it off to the next waiting crew member.
  • Soft Sand Relay: A team of guards from the same crew will each sprint 150 meters before handing off a rubber relay baton, in this pure running race, in soft-sand.
  • Tug Of War: A team of guards from the same crew will pull against other crews drawn randomly in this double elimination event that emphasizes strength and endurance.

There is no charge to attend the event, but, you might want to bring a beach chair. All the fun kicks off on the beach at North Division Street at 6:30 pm. Be sure and get there early so you can get a good vantage point.

For more information call 410-289-8967.