Randy Townsend is now convinced the Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol can safely label itself as one of the higher standards for what a beach patrol should be – not only dedicated to great public safety, like all the other patrols on Long Beach Island, but athletically a cream-of-the-crop crew.

“After four years of winning this, I’d say we’re there. It’s kind of hard to deny it now,” said the HCBP captain after his squad cruised to a fourth straight Island Lifeguard Tournament championship on Aug. 4.