Lifeguards up and down the Jersey Shore competed for the crown at the annual Howard Rowland Tournament.

It was hosted this year at 10th Avenue Beach in Belmar.

Lifeguards competed head-to-head in timed swim challenges, boat races and team relays.

Home shore advantage proved vital for Belmar, which came out on top.

Lifeguards braved the chilly waters of Belmar at night - some said the temperatures were as low as 60 degrees.

Participants say the feats of strength show that the Jersey Shore is in good hands.

“I truly believe we have the best surf athletes in Monmouth County and New Jersey, and we proved that tonight,” Belmar lifeguards team captain Steve Swenson said. “We’re always battling the elements. You’ve got some cold water today, the surf’s a little high, the winds are up, but it’s something that we like to take on the head.” Manasquan and Long Branch came in second and third place.