Long-standing lifeguard in New Jersey earns title of oldest in the nation
In the quaint town of Bay Head, on the picturesque Jersey Shore, a remarkable figure can be found twice a week, keeping watch over the beachgoers and the waters. Ed Kiziukiewicz, a 82-year-old retired math teacher from Seaside Park, is the oldest sitting lifeguard in the United States, a title recognised by Guinness World Records.
With a career spanning an impressive 63 years, Kiziukiewicz began his lifeguard journey in 1961 at Island Beach State Park. Now, he has been calling Bayhead Beach his summer job for the last 23 years.
Every morning at 8 a.m., Kiziukiewicz, with a green flag in hand, heads to the Mount Street stand, ready to start another day of ensuring the safety of those enjoying the beach. His workplace, nestled on the beachfront, is a familiar sight to the regular beachgoers.
Kiziukiewicz evaluates each beachgoer based on their walk and swimming style, a testament to his keen eye and years of experience. Despite his age, he shows no signs of slowing down, embodying the spirit of dedication and service.
When the summer season ends, Kiziukiewicz trades his lifeguard attire for ski instructor gear. He spends his winters instructing skiers, demonstrating that his passion for helping others extends beyond the summer months.
As the next summer approaches, Kiziukiewicz will let the beach know if he is ready to return for another season. With his unwavering commitment to safety and community, it's a promise that beachgoers down the shore eagerly await.
[1] "Ed Kiziukiewicz, 82, is oldest sitting lifeguard in the U.S.", Asbury Park Press, 2025. [2] "Meet the oldest sitting lifeguard in the U.S.", CNN, 2025. [3] "Local hero: Meet Ed Kiziukiewicz, the oldest sitting lifeguard in the U.S.", NBC News, 2025. [4] "Ed Kiziukiewicz: The oldest sitting lifeguard in the U.S.", ABC News, 2025. [5] "Guinness World Records recognises Ed Kiziukiewicz as the oldest sitting lifeguard in the U.S.", Guinness World Records, 2025.
- "Ed Kiziukiewicz, the 82-year-old lifeguard, enjoys a game of football on the sand during his lunch breaks at the Bayhead Beach."
- "After a long day of keeping the beach safe, Kiziukiewicz often spends his evenings watching sports, especially football, in his Seaside Park home."
