The finals day of the World Surf League’s New Zealand Pro event was dramatically paused on Monday after Australian photographer Ed Sloane was attacked by a sea creature in the water. The incident, which occurred during the men’s semi-finals in Raglan on the North Island, led to the immediate activation of a ‘code red’ protocol and Sloane’s swift transport to hospital.
Sloane, a beloved water photographer for the WSL, sustained small puncture wounds to his left foot. He was taken by ambulance for medical attention following the encounter.
The nature of the creature remains unconfirmed, with organisers suggesting it could have been either a shark or a sea lion.
‘Code red’ activated in Raglan
The incident unfolded as Brazilian surfers Yago Dora and Italo Ferreira were competing in their semi-final heat. The ‘code red’ protocol is a standard measure activated during World Surf League events when there is a sea life attack on a surfer or photographer, ensuring immediate action and safety precautions.
Read also: New York Knicks end 25-year wait, sweep Cavaliers to reach NBA finals
In a statement shared by the surf league to BBC, Sloane confirmed his condition: “I am doing okay, I’ve had bites to my left foot and am getting medical attention.”
Renato Hickel, World Surf League vice-president of tours and competition, addressed the situation on the WSL broadcast, acknowledging the severity of the event. “We activate the code red when it’s a sea life attack on a surfer or a photographer,” Hickel explained. “This time it was our beloved water photographer and thank God he’s in good spirits. He’s well considering what happened.”
Event resumes with enhanced safety
The competition was put on hold for several hours while the situation was assessed and additional safety measures were implemented. These included the deployment of extra jet skis and a drone spotter to continuously monitor the water for any further marine activity.
The uncertainty surrounding the creature’s identity added to the tension. Hickel elaborated on the ongoing mystery: “At this stage we’re not certain if it was a shark or a sea lion. The doctor that was here helping on the scene was inclined to think it was a sea lion instead of a shark. Nevertheless very scary. Italo and Yago were very shaken. They saw the splash and the incident, so another reason to put the event on hold.”
Read also: Emotional return: Gavi's World Cup dream after injury battle
After the extended pause and with enhanced safety protocols in place, the New Zealand Pro event eventually got back underway, allowing the semi-finals and finals to conclude.
The incident served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable elements inherent in professional surfing, where athletes and support staff operate within the natural marine environment.
Sources: www.bbc.com
Read also: Kompany's Manchester City farewell appearance draws 'disrespectful' Bayern criticism
Read also: "It's a squad. Not necessarily the 26 best players": Deschamps on France World Cup squad
