Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2010

Each year, the aspiring Mitch Bucchannons of Japan head to the tip of the Izu peninsula to strut their stuff at Shimoda’s Japan Lifesaving Championships. Now into its 23rd year, the event—subtitled “Surf Carnival / Rescue 92 Memorial”—acts as a proving ground for youngsters hoping to make it as professional lifesavers. Guys and girls, many of them still in high school, compete in individual heats including ocean swimming, beach sprints and board races, as well as a team relay. The action runs from 9am-5pm on June 5 and 8:30am-3pm June 6, and members of the public are welcome to come along and watch—but no gawking, eh?

Shirahama Beach, Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture. Nearest stn: Izukyu-Shimoda (Izu Kyuko line). www.jla.gr.jp