Meet A Guard
Every few weeks we’ll take time to interview and discuss one of our Upper guards to give everyone an insight on what makes our patrol the best in South Jersey.
FORD PALMER
One of the fast rising names on the upper township beach patrol is that of Ford Palmer. Now in his 4th year, Ford has continued to increase what he does for the patrol every year. This year he has earned the nick name of ‘the mechanic’ for his hard work building and repairing equipment for the beach patrol. In addition to this work, Ford burst onto the competitive scene by making a big impact on the patrol’s surf dash team, which finished 2nd at counties and 1st at tri-resorts. Ford also rowed at the MS Bay Race and ran at tri-resorts, showing his versatility for the patrol. IF this weren’t enough, Ford also hit a homerun during the annual township picnic softball game.
So what makes Ford such a fantastic guard? Guard Pat Kelly believes it to be “his fantastic chest hair.” Guard Cara Thomas thinks its more to do with “his mustache. That or his side burns.” While both make good points, the thing that makes Ford Palmer such a fantastic guard is probably more then those things. Ford brings an enthusiasm to the job that is not often seen on any beach patrol. Always ready to help out fellow guards doing work, or hop into any workout that is going on, or even taking the lead in off duty activities such as a fantasy football draft for the guards. Guard Blake Boffa believes this enthusiasm began in Ford’s days playing football. “If I had one wish in the world, it wouldn’t be a superpower, it would be to go back in time and play football with Ford Palmer.” Whatever be the case, due to his hard work, excellence in guarding, and enthusiasm for his job, Ford Palmer makes an excellent first ‘Meet a Guard’ interviewee.
Question from UTBP.us: So Ford, what is your favorite stand to sit at?
Ford: They’re all great to sit at.
Q: What is your favorite training to do on the beach?
Ford: Using the paddle board
Q: What do you like to do on your off days?
Ford: I like to visit exotic places with my girlfriend.
Q: What has been your favorite guard memory so far?
Ford: My favorite memory is of trying out for the patrol with Pat Kelly and both of us wearing speedos.
Q: If you were in danger of drowning, what other guard on the patrol would you hope to be sitting at your stand?
Ford: Spenser Popeson
Q: What celebrity do you think would make the best lifeguard?
Ford: Allen Iverson
Q: What advice would you like to give to beach patrons in Strathmere?
Ford: Make sure you swim in front of the stand, and make sure to stay away from Pat Kelly