16-year-old lifeguard risks life to rescue child from powerful surf.

@brutamerica

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Why it worked

The video showcases a dramatic and heroic rescue, appealing to viewers' emotions and sense of admiration for bravery. The clear depiction of danger and successful outcome makes it highly shareable.

Summary

A 16-year-old lifeguard bravely rescued a child from powerful surf at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz. The lifeguard battled strong waves to bring the child back to shore, with the rescue captured on video by a bystander.

Structure

1Lifeguard enters powerful surf to rescue a child.
2Lifeguard battles waves while holding the child.
3The rescue is captured on video.
4The child is brought back to shore.

On-screen text

@santacruznow Brut. 16-year-old lifeguard risks life to rescue child from powerful surf. Journalist: Team Brut.

Original caption

A dramatic rescue unfolded at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz after a child was swept into powerful surf, prompting a 16-year-old lifeguard to enter the water. The lifeguard, identified by NBC Bay Area as a high school student named Ryder, battled a series of breaking waves while holding tightly to the child, who was believed to be about 10 years old. Witness Vander Dussen, who recorded the incident, said the rough conditions caught many beachgoers by surprise and swept the child away within moments. Video of the rescue shows Ryder repeatedly surfacing for air before ducking beneath the incoming waves, never releasing his grip on the child. Several people on the beach attempted to assist as the pair struggled toward shore, while witnesses described the teenager’s actions as exceptionally brave. #rescue #lifeguard #hero