Surfing is considered one of the most dangerous sports. The sport has witnessed the death of some profile surfers. However, the numbers have gradually improved in recent times. Thanks to the ever-improving facilities and spot jet skis. The last decade witnessed the deaths of four popular surfers. But, sometimes this reliance on spotters has proved to be a gamble for Laird Hamilton. 

In a 2018 interview with Graham Bensinger, Laird Hamilton revealed that the safety of a surfer depends more on the temperament of the supporter. Hamilton described an incident when he almost drowned while the spotter went away. 

Laird Hamilton almost drowned

Laird Hamilton in the interview talked about the rescuing techniques and role of jet-ski spotters in an emergency. The ‘Waterman’ narrated an incident when he was thrown into the water by waves, and his friend drove the jet-ski away instead of rescuing him. He said, “My friend drive the other way, and I was like, help me I am going to drown”. 

He also explained the man was trying to save his life at that moment. Hamilton said, “He was fearing for himself.” Laird Hamilton also added that it needs to be a great understanding between the two to risk their lives. 

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Hamilton felt that maybe the person wasn’t courageous enough to put his life at stake for the legend. “Maybe he didn’t have the capacity to override and just put himself on the line”, he added.

The bond never stays the same

Laird Hamilton survived and got out from the waves safely. But the legend admitted that the bonding changed forever. He said, “You will have a different relationship after that for a long time”. The 58-year-old legend feels that it becomes difficult for the surfer to trust that person again. 

The veteran also states that it is hard to identify those people who would dive into the waves to save surfers. But one cannot blame those who refrained as they had their reasons.

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What do you think? Who is the defaulter in such situations? Is it the spotter or the situation itself? Let us know in the comment box.