In the excitement of a lockdown-loosened bank holiday weekend, it may have escaped your notice that 30 April marked the end of our #ReadyForAction challenge where lifesavers and lifeguards conquered in excess of 70,000 miles, almost twice around the globe!

Set up to get lifeguards, lifesavers and competitors fit, fabulous and ready to get back in, on and around the water, the Ready For Action challenge encouraged participants to get back to their mental and physical best and also raise funds for RLSS UK’s lifesaving water safety work.

RLSS UK caught up with one keen cyclist, Jack Hudson, who cycled over 200 miles and even managed to get friends and family to raise over £200 for RLSS UK.

“I trained to become a lifeguard in February 2020, and found learning about first aid, water safety and rescue and how to deal with emergencies really interesting. I love my job and the pleasure that comes from allowing the public to swim in a clean and safe environment.

I heard about the RLSS UK Ready For Action challenge; it seemed like a cool idea and I had been cycling a little bit over lockdown anyway so I decided to take part. I figured I could hold myself more to account and do something worthwhile at the same time if I fundraised for the challenge. I live near lots of open water rivers and reservoirs so I am aware of the importance of good water safety advice. It was tough at first as I tried to go out and cycle as often as I could, but it got progressively easier over time, a sign my fitness was improving.

I set a modest fundraising target, not really knowing what kind of response I would get, but have been blown away by how successful the campaign was. It was added motivation too to make sure I completed the 200 miles and then some. I initially just shared what I was doing with family, but then as they shared it on to my family and colleagues the donations started to come in fast. It felt really good to have made a real contribution to RLSS UK, and it’s been lovely to receive the messages of support from my friends and family”

Well done Jack! Your kind donation will help communities to enjoy water safely. Look out for your certificates coming soon.