Local resident top finisher in lifeguard tournament

Daniel Wallace of Massapequa, Kim Corso of Massapequa Park, Joanna Vetere of Seaford and Valerie Zeffiro of Farmingdale were among the top finishers in the Second Annual Jones Beach Junior Lifeguard Tournament hosted by the Jones Beach Lifeguard Corps. Daniel Wallace, age 13, placed third in the RunSwim-Run event, and first in both the Beach Run and the Co-Ed Rescue Race in the Boys (12-13) B Division. Kim Corso, age 12, placed second in the Paddle Board Course in the Girls (1213) B Division. Joanna Vetere, age 14, placed second in the Co-Ed Swim Relay in the Girls (14-15) A Division. Valerie Zeffiro, age 11, placed second in the Co-Ed Swim Relay in the Girls (9-11) C Division.

During rigorous weekend training, Daniel, Kim, Joanna and Valerie learned critical skills that will help them be better lifeguards in the future. The competition reflects skills used by lifeguards working the ocean, including swimming, running, and rescue relays. In addition to building lifesaving skills, the Junior Lifeguard program instills an understanding of the beach environment and its changing conditions.

This is the third year that FPL Energy has sponsored the Jones Beach Junior Lifeguard Program. Recognized for its environmental stewardship around the country by organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund and the US Coast Guard, FPL Energy is proud to support the Junior Lifeguard Program as it teaches a new generation to protect the future of Long Island's waterfront.