Watermen Lifeguard Ambassador Series: Dan Pogonowski "Pogo" (37), Ocean City Beach Patrol
Welcome to the Watermen Lifeguard Ambassador Series. This weeks featured Ambassador is on Training Officer at Ocean City Beach Patrol in Maryland, Dan Pogonowski. We had a chance to interview Dan about his heroic rescues, training routine, and favorite equipment. Read his interview below:
Hobbies?
Outside of work, I have a few hobbies that really keep me energized and balanced. I'm an avid distance runner—I love training and racing for road marathons, trail ultramarathons, and soft-sand long runs. I also enjoy camping, which gives me a chance to disconnect, get outdoors, and reset. Swimming is another favorite, both as a cross-training activity and because I just enjoy the water. Spending time with friends is something I always prioritize as well; it’s important to me to stay connected and have fun. Lastly, I’m always looking to grow in my full-time career as a firefighter, so I frequently take classes to build new skills and keep myself sharp professionally.
Any Highlights From the Past Year?
Over the past few years, I’ve had some meaningful experiences. One of the biggest highlights was transitioning back to lifeguarding on the stand. For three years, I was on a four-wheeler as a supervisor, but after some self-reflection I found there's truly nothing like sitting in the chair, watching over the water, connecting with beach patrons, and being a part of the team again. I love making rescues both solo and with my crew on big surf days. Another big moment was getting married to another lifeguard I met through beach patrol, who has been a major highlight in my life. The crew dinners and activities are always fun. And honestly, waking up at the beach every day just makes everything better—it’s the perfect way to start the day.
Any Big Rescues or Emergencies?
I’ve been fortunate to have a long career in ocean lifeguarding—18 years so far—and I’ve been involved in numerous rescues and emergency situations. One of the most memorable was a CPR rescue just over the dune access before our shift even began. My buddy and I were heading out for a morning open water swim when we found a beachgoer passed out in the sand, and it turned out they were in cardiac arrest. We were able to respond immediately, thanks to having a radio and AED on our quad, and got the individual stabilized to the point where they were talking before they left the beach. It’s even more meaningful because this beach patron reaches out to us every year to say thanks and has generously supported our patrol. That gratitude has been incredibly impactful, and it reminds me just how important our work really is.
What Is Your Training Routine?
In the off-season I try to stick to a training routine that is both interesting to me and keeps me fit for lifeguarding and competing. I focus on running, swimming, and HIIT-style workouts and do my best to complete two workouts each day. In 2021 I completed a full Ironman, which was a huge goal for me and a serious commitment. Also, took on a memorable 20-mile soft sand run from the Ocean City Inlet to the Indian River Inlet with my wife—one of the toughest things I’ve done! During the summer, I try to fit in a run or swim during the workday, though as I get older, I’m definitely feeling the effects of colder water temperatures a lot more. Overall, I like to keep my training varied and challenging.
What Is Your Favorite Equipment?
My favorite piece of equipment would have to be my surf fins. They’re invaluable on big surf days—giving that extra power in the water to make rescues efficiently and safely. But they’re not just practical; they’re also a blast to use for body surfing during workouts. Surf fins add a lot of speed and control, making training sessions even more enjoyable while keeping me ready for whatever the ocean might throw at us.
What Does Watermen Mean to You?
To me, being a Waterman means embodying a blend of respect, skill, and responsibility toward the ocean. It’s about developing not just physical endurance and strength but also an understanding of the water’s rhythms and power. A Waterman is someone who can adapt to the ocean’s changing conditions, whether that’s saving lives, handling rough waves, or simply moving through the water with confidence. It’s a lifelong commitment, and it shapes who I am every day—whether on duty, training, or even just enjoying time in the surf. Being a Waterman is about connection, purpose, and respect for the ocean and all it represents.
Check out Dan Pogonowski on Instagram: pogostick410
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