Most outstanding at life saving

Hayden Hemmens was selected by the California Surf Life Saving Assn. as the most outstanding junior lifeguard in the state.

Hayden of Costa Mesa is 12 years old.

“I’m very excited. I’m just very excited,” said Hayden with a big smile on his face.

He was selected for a specific reason: He’s humble.

“He’s very skilled in surf racing and he exhibits great leadership by pushing his fellow junior lifeguards to their maximum potential,” said Chris Egan, program coordinator for the Huntington State Beach Junior Lifeguard Program where Hayden is a member.

“Hayden respects the educational components of the programs and his camaraderie with others is what makes him deserving.”

The life saving association is a member of the United State Lifesaving Assn. with delegates from across California.

Ten members of the Southwest region selected a lifeguard from their organization to receive the first Bobby Burnside Memorial Award, in honor of Bob Burnside’s son.

Bob Burnside is a former Los Angeles County lifeguard chief, who also developed the Rescue Can, one of the modern life saving tools, Egan said.

The Huntington State Beach Junior Lifeguard Program provides a safe place for aquatic recreation and educates boys and girls on beach hazards and lifeguard procedures, including learning about the fundamentals of life saving training.

Hayden received a trophy, a $300 check and a perpetual trophy that will be displayed at Huntington State Beach until the next winner is selected.

He wants to save his money, but he might use it to buy something. He isn’t sure yet.

Aside from playing the piano, Hayden is an outstanding student, who wants to become a professional lifeguard.

He also wants to go to college and become a veterinarian.

“Hayden’s award is a big honor for Huntington State Beach and we get a great deal of pride by being recognized,” Egan said.