| SARASOTA COUNTY – Siesta Beach will host the state’s top lifeguards for the 2021 United States Lifesaving Association James “Mac” McCarthy Memorial Surf Lifeguard Championships July 21 and July 22. The two-day event showcases the skills and abilities of lifeguards as they compete in swimming, running, paddling, rowing, and water rescue events. The competition serves as the Southeast Regional championships for USLA competitors. Top finishers in each event qualify to compete in the 2021 USLA National Lifeguard Championships Aug. 4 to Aug. 7 at South Padre Island, Texas. |  Lifeguards compete in USLA Southeast Regional Lifeguard Championships at Siesta Beach in 2016. |
| “Sarasota County Lifeguard Operations is pleased to host the 2021 James ‘Mac’ McCarthy Memorial Surf Lifeguard Championships at Siesta Beach. Admission is free, so come on out and support not only your Sarasota County Lifeguards but also lifeguards from throughout Florida,” said Sarasota County Emergency Services director Rich Collins. There is no cost for admission to the event, to be held on Siesta Public Beach. Spectators and participants are encouraged to follow the most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines related to COVID-19. Several Sarasota County lifeguards will be participating in the various events throughout the competition. “Hosting this competition gives Sarasota County the opportunity to thank lifeguards for all they do to protect citizens and visitors alike along our beaches and those across the state,” said Sarasota County Fire Chief Michael Regnier. This year marks the third time the competition has been held on Siesta Beach. The last time the competition was in Sarasota County was 2016. Event Information:What: USLA James “Mac” McCarthy Memorial Surf Lifeguard Championships.When: July 21 – 22, 2021, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Road Sarasota, FL 34242 (near the yellow lifeguard stand). For more information, contact the Southeast Region of the United States Lifesaving Association. |