For Swiss lifesaver Sarah Morgenegg, selection for the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 is the result of a goal she has been working towards for the past year, with the 2024 Simulated Emergency Response Competition, or SERC, silver medallist set to return to the world stage.
Morgenegg will represent Switzerland across an extensive program spanning pool, ocean and beach events, with another SERC medal among her ambitions for LWC2026.
We caught up with Sarah to find out more about her lifesaving journey, preparation and ambitions for LWC2026.
What does being selected for the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 mean to you personally?
It is an amazing opportunity and the goal I have been working towards for the last year. It is always an honour to be able to represent Switzerland and share a great experience with my teammates.
Can you share a bit about your background in lifesaving and how you first got involved in the sport?
I started the sport later in life, at 17 years old. After my best friend from school invited me to come watch a competition, I was immediately hooked and the year after I competed in that same competition myself.
Who has had the biggest influence on your lifesaving career, and in what way?
My team and coaches, at home and in the national squad. There are so many great people around me, inspiring me with their determination and drive to be the best we can be.
Can you give us an insight into your preparation or training leading into Worlds? What does a typical week look like for you?
I train every day, using the weekends for doubles. Having a regular full-time job does mean I sometimes have to use a longer lunch break to squeeze in a gym session, and my evenings are usually reserved for practice.
Gym, swim, board and track sessions make up my week. Getting closer to the competition, I am really looking forward to my taper!
Which events will you be competing in, and what are you most looking forward to?
I will be competing in SERC, Obstacle Relay, Line Throw, Manikin Tow, Mixed PLS Relay, Manikin Carry, Manikin Relay, Superlifesaver, Medley Relay, Sprint, Sprint Relay, Tube Rescue, Taplin Relay and Flags.
I am most looking forward to SERC, Manikin Tow, Mixed Pool Lifesaver Relay and Taplin Relay.
What are your expectations for the competition?
I would love to get some national records with the team. Another medal in SERC, after winning silver in Australia in 2024, is also on the list.
As always, I am looking forward to great times, high-level competition and getting to see another country.
What’s one thing you’d like people to know about you, either as an athlete or outside the sport?
I plan my race-day snacks almost as seriously as my race itself.