Cameras catch surfer Mick Fanning fending off shark attack during J-Bay Open
Jul 19, 2015, 1:40 PM | Updated: 1:41 pm
Meet Mick Fanning, a well-accomplished Australian surfer with three ASP World Tour championships under his belt.
That’s impressive and all, but not as fascinating as this: Fanning can now add shark attack survivor to his résumé.
Television cameras on Sunday filmed Fanning sitting calmly on his surfboard when he was approached and attacked by a shark during the J-Bay Open in South Africa.
After a bit of thrashing about in the water to fend off the shark, organizers quickly helped Fanning onto their jet skis. He was unharmed an in good spirits, making note to reporters that he got a few punches in on his toothy attacker.
The situation became a little more serious than Fanning’s account would indicate. Fellow surfer Julian Wilson — who appeared visibly shaken — gave a more chilling interview once he reached shore, telling a reporter that he was thinking about how to fend off the shark as he saw it attacking Fanning.
.@Mick_Fanning wasn't alone – @julian_wilson on the #JBayOpen shark encounter: http://t.co/Nwfr7XdCQC http://t.co/QbzddP2QNb
— #JBayOpen (@wsl) July 19, 2015
The World Surf League didn’t waste much time putting a hold on the event.
“The safety of our athletes is a priority for the WSL and, after discussions with both Finalists, we have decided to cancel the remainder of competition at the J-Bay Open. We appreciate the ongoing support we have in South Africa and once again want to express our gratitude to the Water Safety Team.”
