After the first run on the first day of Los Angeles County's lifeguard-training academy, a rookie throws up, walks off the beach and quits. None of the other recruits turn to look. L.A. lifeguard training is run with military discipline, and one rule is, always face the water. The class stands frozen in squad formation. No one wants to risk his or her chances just to watch a defeated rookie slink away. Lifeguarding is one of the most coveted summer jobs in southern California. Pono Barnes, an 18-year-old surfer, describes what it was like to train for his dream job.