For Czech lifesaver Václav Horák, the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 will be a particularly special experience, with the third-year Youth Czech Lifesaving Team member set to compete on familiar beaches in South Africa.
Although proudly representing Czechia, Horák spends much of his time in South Africa, where he trains with Woodridge College Lifesaving Club near Port Elizabeth. Having already represented his country at three European Championships, he will make his World Championships debut across pool and beach events, including the 100m Manikin Tow, 100m Manikin Carry with Fins, Board Race and Oceanman.
We caught up with Václav, also known as ‘Vashii’, to find out more about his lifesaving journey, preparation and what he is looking forward to most at LWC2026.
What does being selected for the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 mean to you personally?
It means that I can experience something a lot of people don’t get to experience. It means I have something bigger than me or you to work towards and be a part of.
Can you share a bit about your background in lifesaving and how you first got involved in the sport?
I had never even heard of lifesaving before I moved to South Africa when I was younger and my brothers started doing it. So naturally, I started meddling in it too and 10 years later I am still here, so I guess that means something.
Who has had the biggest influence on your lifesaving career, and in what way?
There have been many major influences over the years, including my family, friends and, of course, my coaches. But I think if I had to choose one for sheer impact, then the timeless Mr Robert Smith, head coach of Woodridge Lifesaving Club, would be the one.
No one else radiates the word lifesaving as much as he does and it rubs off on all of us in the club. In all the ways.
Can you give us an insight into your preparation or training leading into Worlds? What does a typical week look like for you?
I had the great lineup of preparing for European Championships earlier this year, so I can just build off of that for Worlds.
My training week is very dependent on my timetable with school, as up until Worlds I will be writing my finals. But I fall into the pool every day, then go for a surf session later. Into the week I incorporate some runs and gym as well. But most importantly, I get lots of sleep!
Which events will you be competing in, and what are you most looking forward to?
I will be competing mainly in the 100m Manikin Tow and 100m Manikin Carry with Fins. On the beach I will be on the board and Oceanman.
I think I am most excited for the Board Race, as that one is always a good race and anything can happen. Especially if Kings Beach gives us some good swell.
What are your expectations for the competition?
It is my first World Championships, so honestly, I don’t have many expectations. I want to enjoy it to the max and give my best out there. I also hope that we get some good waves and decent weather.
What’s one thing you’d like people to know about you, either as an athlete or outside the sport?
I’d want people to know that I enjoy the sport, and I love the way it brings people together. So, no matter what happens, I am always happy to just be able to compete and enjoy the beach.
The 2026 Lifesaving World Championships begin in Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay on 25 November 2026.
