David B. Mayo helped to save Marcian G. Cotter from drowning, Penetanguishene, Ontario, August 11, 2011. Cotter, 49, became distressed while swimming in Georgian Bay off a provincial park beach. He shouted for help, attracting the attention of other beachgoers, including Mayo, 45, teacher. The beach and that part of the bay were rocky, and high winds fostered three-foot waves. Mayo picked up a short surfboard from nearby and entered the water. He paddled over the submerged rocks and then swam toward Cotter, who was about 300 feet from shore. Reaching Cotter, he extended the board to him, and Cotter grasped and held to it. Also holding to the board, Mayo swam a backstroke toward shore, towing Cotter. In wadable water Mayo was aided by others in removing Cotter, who was exhausted, to the beach. Cotter was taken to the hospital for treatment. Mayo sustained lacerations and contusions to his feet, from which he recovered.
84277 – 9631
84277-9631