The first City of Del Mar Lifeguard test was given on May 8, 1965.  Twenty four applicants showed up to take the test.  Air temp was 63 degrees, Water temp. 62 degrees.  The test consisted of a 1/2 mile ocean swim (25th st to 17th st), a Run-Swim-Run, a written first aid test and an oral interview. 

Tom Keck was on hand to take pictures and relates the following story:  " I was freelancing for the UT and Channel 10.  I wore my trunks so as to be able to go into the water to get the 1st bunch of hopeful guards coming in.  Gardner Stevens and I were on the beach at 23rd  St. when a few guys began to tread water and look around.  There was someone out there on a rescue board, but I think he was with the leaders.  So Gardner asked me if I could trust leaving my camera gear on the beach and help assist with a rescue.  I said 'yes' and he handed me a rescue buoy and out we went to bring in three guys.  I had to laugh as I wish I had had a waterproof case because Gardner picked up two of them and I had one.   I never did get the first bunch coming in."  

Following the swim test and written first aid exam was an oral interview.  Helping out in the interview was Lt. Cunningham of L.A. County Lifeguards.  Those hired were Ron Jensen, Paul Kraus, Jack Ross, Peter Critchlow and Gerry Maier.

	Gardner in the center of the picture discusses how to use the rescue tube. To Gardner's left is Paul Kraus.  (photo Tom Keck)
	Run, Swim, Rescue.  Ron Jensen in 3rd place, Paul Kraus in 5th. (Photo Tom Keck)

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