THE Inflatable Rescue Boats will return to the water for the first time in close to two years this weekend, as the 2021 NSW premiership series gets underway at Terrigal.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
More than 300 surf lifesavers, from 17 different clubs across the state, will compete over the two days
Of particular note, the Kiama Downs SLSC team, who took out back-to-back series wins in 2019 as well as the state championship, will again fly the South Coast flag this season.
Despite their 18-month hiatus, Kiama Downs will be hoping to continue their strong run of form against fierce rival Caves Beach SLSC - with the two clubs taking turns claiming the state title and series premierships over the past decade.
Steve Strong steered Kiama Downs to their double victory in 2019 and said his 20-strong side are ready to get back on the start line and defend their crowns.
"Everyone is really keen to get back out there," Strong said.
"There are some clubs with big teams entered.
"We have about the same numbers as last time and feel like we can give it a shake against the bigger teams.
"Our boats feel good and we've spent time fine-tuning race setup and gear."
Despite feeling ready, Strong admits there is still a lot of unknowns around the new younger crews.
"The time off has given everyone the chance to spend lots of time on development," he said.
"Thirroul and Terrigal have some new young crews and we have a couple of strong under 23 male and female crews, so it will be really interesting to see how everything unfolds for round one."
IRB racing, which features events in rescue, mass rescue, teams rescue, rescue tube and relay and rookie, under 23s, over 35s, over 45s and open divisions, is the opportunity for drivers and crew to develop and hone vital rescue skills in simulated scenarios under pressure.
The out-of-season sport, which will host rounds at Cape Hawke SLSC (May 29-30), Warilla-Barrack Point SLSC (June 12-13) and Ocean Beach SLSC (June 26-27), also provides the opportunity for lifesavers to keep fit and connected throughout winter.
Other teams to be competing during the series include Avalon Beach SLSC, Bondi SBLSC, Bungan Beach SLSC, Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC, Maroubra SLSC, Mona Vale SLSC, Newport SLSC, Nobbys SLSC, North Avoca SLSC, North Cronulla SLSC, Ocean Beach SLSC, Queenscliff SLSC, South Maroubra SLSC, Terrigal SLSC and Thirroul SLSC.