Overcoming Obstacles - Katie Cleasby - Chief Endurance Officer with Greg McDonough - Episode # 077

Lifeguarding

Lifeguarding at endurance events presents unique challenges, requiring a blend of experience and quick decision-making. Katie Cleasby highlights the chaotic environment lifeguards face during open water swims, where they must identify distress signals among hundreds of athletes 1. She emphasizes the importance of experienced lifeguards who can make split-second decisions using naturalistic decision-making approaches, similar to those used by doctors and firefighters 1.

If you're an experienced lifeguard, you know what to look for. You know the cues.

--- Katie Cleasby

Katie's research underscores the need for proper training and preparation to ensure safety in these high-pressure situations 2.

   

Race Day

Race day for triathletes is fraught with both mental and physical challenges, particularly in the water. Greg McDonough and Katie discuss the critical role of support teams, who are often volunteers, in ensuring athlete safety during these events 3. Athletes are encouraged to communicate openly with these teams, taking breaks when necessary to avoid pushing beyond their limits.

It's okay for them to come and take a break. And that communication piece and that empathy was so prevalent.

--- Katie Cleasby

Katie stresses the importance of recognizing when to stop, as the consequences of overexertion can be severe 3.

   

Research

Katie's extensive research into lifeguard decision-making in triathlons reveals significant insights into water safety. Her dissertation involved interviewing top lifeguards across the U.S. to understand the complexities they face in these high-stakes environments 2. The study highlights the frequent occurrence of fatalities and the urgent need for better training and protocols.

I interviewed 19 best of the best lifeguards who were guarding these triathlons, because unfortunately, people die, like, a lot, every weekend.

--- Katie Cleasby

Katie is now working with nonprofits to develop online training programs aimed at improving lifeguard readiness for open water events 2.