Although the Paris Olympics are taking place, the surfing event is being held 15,000 kilometres away in the French territory of Tahiti. As with any Olympics, the event has its share of drama and excitement. Recently, a surfer from Tahiti was rescued from drowning by lifeguards because of a ‘dangerous’ storm.
Australian surfer Jack Robinson, who has advanced to the quarter-finals at the Paris Olympics, has revealed a harrowing near-drowning experience in the waves of Tahiti. The 26-year-old, one of the world’s top surfers, had an impressive showing, notably defeating world No. 1 John Florence despite the challenging conditions in French Polynesia.
Jack Robinson’s harrowing, near-drowning experience
A severe storm led to massive waves, forcing the postponement of the women’s third-round heat due to safety concerns. Robinson shared his terrifying ordeal, which involved multiple wipe-outs and required a jet-ski rescue.
“I got dragged over the bottom and almost had a two-wave hold down,” Robinson explained. “I didn’t have much time to catch my breath. It reminded me of so many surfers who have had dangerous wipe-outs here.”
Challenges in storms
Robinson acknowledged that while he has faced severe wipe-outs before, the intensity of competition adds a unique pressure. “The waves are incredibly powerful. It’s unlike any other sport—perhaps similar to an avalanche coming down a mountain. It’s both dangerous and intense.”
Robinson is set to compete against fellow Australian Ethan Ewing in the quarter-finals. Ewing, who also experienced several wipe-outs after defeating Connor O’Leary, commented, “I had some wipe-outs, but I’m thrilled it paid off. I have so much water in my head right now. It feels great to be back on land.”
