After going head-to-head as part of their respective national youth lifesaving teams, Amaia Lopez from Great Britain and Jemma Holt from Australia have joined forces competing side-by-side in the interclub championship.
The pair met two years ago at an international lifesaving competition and forged a strong bond.
“I met Jemma in Canada when I was racing for Great Britain and Jemma was racing for Australia.
“We got along so well and kept in touch, I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to compete alongside her for Mordialloc Life Saving Club while I am here in Australia.
“Interclub is just a different competition dynamic as everyone has to take part in events, the beach relay was a bit of fun as we are not beach sprinters. When we go over to the pool for interclub that will be our time to shine,” Amaia said.
“The national youth team pool competition events were really close with Australia taking first place and Great Britain finishing third – we love racing against each other.”
Jemma, competing at her first World Titles in the Australian Youth Surf Life Saving Team, said the national rivalry had been put aside.
“After competing in the national team events, I do feel like there is less of a rivalry between our two countries and more of a friendship between Australia and Great Britian.
“I think the great thing about our sport is that we have such strong bonds. It is all well and good to have a rivalry as that makes us better athletes, but I think having that friendship as well makes us better people.
“While we have a strong long-distance friendship and keep in touch regularly, it is the best thing seeing Amaia in person.
“The friendships we make with people around the world through international competition like the World Titles are so special – for me I think it is even much more special than any medal you can win at these events.”
