Summer at the beach, guaranteed

Sue Doyle

NEWPORT BEACH -- They came by the hundreds. They waited in long, hot

lines. They dug their heels into the ground and didn’t leave until they

got what they came for.

No, it wasn’t for a chance to win a million dollars. Or for tickets to a

Backstreet Boys concert, or the chance to see a favorite movie star.

All the commotion stemmed from Junior Lifeguards, the wildly popular

eight-week program that has evolved into a must-do for 9- to 15-year-olds

in Newport-Mesa.

Hundreds of children flocked to Balboa Pier on Wednesday to pick up their

cherished uniforms for the sold-out program, which begins June 26.

“The program builds confidence. On the first day, some are hesitant to

get their big toe in the water. By the end of the summer, they’re geared

up for a huge event they’ve worked up to,” said Reenie Boyer, marine

training coordinator of the Newport Beach Fire and Marine Department.

For three hours a day, Monday through Thursday, children will test their

skills on the beach in athletic events and also learn about what goes on

below the water’s surface.

Rip currents, big surf conditions and the flag system become a part of

the children’s vocabulary after the first few classes, which are taught

by certified lifeguards.

The program has almost become a rite of passage for children in the area.

It began 17 years ago with an enrollment of 50 children. For the last

four years, registration has been maxed out.

In fact, Junior Lifeguards is bursting at the seams, with a maximum

enrollment of 1,200 children. Registration began in January and available

space went fast, Boyer said.

For more information on the program, call (949) 675-8420.