Cochrane residents Oliver Johnson and Isaac Thibodeau return to Canada with silver hardware after leaving their mark at the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships in Australia, which took place from Aug. 20 to Sept. 8.
The event hosted 1,200 athletes from 38 countries. Johnson and Thibodeau were part of a team that consisted of 40 athletes from Canada.
Highlights for Team Canada included a silver medal in the Simulated Emergency Response Competition, which was achieved by Johnson and Thibodeau, alongside their teammates Yannick Morgans and Anna-Maria Skinder. Canada also won bronze in the women’s youth division.
In addition, Johnson broke two Canadian records. In doing so, he thanks the community for helping him get to Australia.
“I can’t thank the community enough for helping me get to Australia, and the support we received during the competition was unreal," Johnson said.
Thibodeau is grateful to have the opportunity to compete in international waters, and would also like to say thank you to everyone who supported their endeavours in Australia.
"My experience at worlds was everything I was hoping for and more," he said. "I learned so much, met so many amazing people, and to my surprise, even managed to come home with a medal,” he said “I am immensely grateful for everyone who has helped support me on my journey and continue to support me wherever this sport takes me next.
“It was an honour to represent Canada and Cochrane at such a prestigious event, and I hope I get the opportunity to do it again soon!"