Lifesaving sport is poised to be one of the standout stories of the World Masters Games 2027, with Wakasa Wada Beach in Takahama Town set to host two days of high‑intensity events that showcase the athleticism and rescue‑based skills at the heart of our sport.

The clear waters and wide shoreline of the Fukui Prefecture venue will stage competition from 22–23 May 2027, as athletes take on a full slate of ocean and beach events including beach flags, surf ski races, board races, ocean man & ocean women, and the demanding 2 km beach run. Team races – spanning beach, surf, board and ocean man & ocean woman relays – will add further excitement and highlight the coordinated teamwork lifesavers are renowned for.

To assist with early event planning, potential participants are encouraged to complete a brief two‑minute survey to help organisers gauge the number of craft required. Complete the survey here.

The lifesaving program sits within the broader World Masters Games, the world’s largest international multi‑sport festival. Held every four years since its debut in Toronto in 1985, the Games champion participation, community, and the joy of staying active across a lifetime.

The 2027 edition in Japan’s Kansai region marks the first time the event will be hosted in the country. Over 17 days, competitors from around the world will take part in 59 events across 35 sports, making it one of the most expansive and inclusive editions to date. Beyond medals, the Games emphasise cultural exchange, camaraderie, and the shared spirit of sport.