Midway’s Cory Taylor to lead New Zealand’s Black Fins at Surf Rescue Challenge in Mount Maunganui

Aussie-based Midway lifeguard Cory Taylor has been named captain of the Black Fins for the International Surf Rescue Challenge at Mount Maunganui late November. Photo / Paul Rickard

Australia-based Gisborne athlete Cory Taylor will again captain the New Zealand Black Fins team when they contest the International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC) in Mount Maunganui at the end of the month.

The ISRC takes place from November 27-30 and involves 13 teams from 11 nations, including Australia, South Africa, the United States and Japan.

Taylor, a long-time member of the Dawson Building Midway club who lives on the Gold Coast and competes for Northcliffe, has been a respected leader in the New Zealand surf lifesaving community for many years.

He captained the Black Fins at the 2019 ISRC in South Africa and the 2024 World Life Saving Championships.

Cory Taylor from the Midway club will once again lead the New Zealand surf lifesaving team in a major international carnival.

“His appointment for this year’s campaign marks a continuation of his role,” Surf Life Saving NZ campaign lead Steve Kent said.

“Cory is a multiple New Zealand ironman champion known for his performance under pressure.

“He knows what it takes to perform at the international level and how to lead by example. His previous captaincy at major events means he can guide younger athletes through competition, team culture and preparation.

“Cory is a truly great Black Fin. He speaks when it’s needed, and when he speaks, it’s always worth listening to,” Kent said.

“His leadership will be pivotal as the Black Fins aim to maintain New Zealand’s competitive edge at the ISRC.”

Taylor said he was proud to be leading the Black Fins again.

“I’m looking forward to competing against the best surf lifesavers from all over the world at Mount Maunganui.

“This is going to be an exciting event, and I’ll be drawing on my experience to help guide the team through.”

Alongside Taylor in the Black Fins will be his Midway and Northcliffe clubmate Olivia Corrin and Kaiaponi Farms Waikanae lifeguards Oksa Smith and Briana Irving.

Pathway teams from New Zealand and South Africa are also competing.

The New Zealand Pathway team includes Midway’s Sophie Petro, Waikanae’s Seven Mapu and former Wainui and Waikanae athlete Jack Keepa.

The IRSC also features youth teams from seven countries. The New Zealand Junior Black Fins team include Midway’s Jacqueline Kennedy and Ella Sutton.