Courtesy of WOWSA, Huntington Beach, California.

It was amazing to see so much aquatic activity existing harmoniously in the small Naples Island area in Long Beach, California during today’s Beach Water Polo Cup.

In one small area in Alamitos Bay, there were hundreds of open water swimmers, triathletes, stand-up paddlers, paddlers, water polo players, kayakers, canoers, outrigger canoers, rowers, yachters, boaters and wind surfers in the water all existing together. 11 different marine activities, each respecting each other’s space, training areas and competitive boundaries.

In addition, there were dorys, gondolas, sailboats and marine life (porpoise) sharing the waterways in the canals of Naples Island.

The amicability and camaraderie between the athletes, the consensus over the division of space, the cooperation among the administrators, the good will and cooperation exhibited by the athletes and the support extended by the city officials was something to see. The tranquility among the multitude of athletes without rancor and without sacrifice of safety is perhaps unrivaled.

Men like Grant Jeffries, captain of boat operations for the Long Beach Fire Department/Lifeguard organization, and Rob Webb work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure safety is paramount while the situation along the coastlines continue without rancor.

Without a doubt, the City of Long Beach lives up to its name, the Aquatic Capital of America. Through its effective utilization of aquatic resources, it has fostered an unparalleled harmony and ambience among different aquatic activities in a unique ecosystem.

Video courtesy of the Grunion Gazette.

Copyright © 2011 by World Open Water Swimming Association