(C) WSL
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http://www.worldsurfleague.com/posts/131142/j-bay-open-called-off-for-day-after-shark-attack
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Mick Fanning's mother, Elizabeth Osborne, was watching the Final of the J-Bay Open and detailed the experience.
"I was absolutely terrified," said Osborne. "I thought we'd lost him because the waves came and we couldn't see him. But he was so brave, it was like slow motion, I just couldn't imagine him coming out of it."
Fellow CT Surfer Taj Burrow previously spotted a shark during competition at J-Bay in 2003. The Australian, who witnessed the attack on the LIVE webcast, told Stab Magazine what it was like to see his friend defend his life.
"I'm still kind of in shock, I can't even imagine how Mick feels," Burrow said. "I thought he was just getting eaten in front of a live audience on live TV. One hundred percent, I just thought he was getting rag-dolled by a great white. Because that little swell came and he disappeared behind it. And I noticed that the cameraman immediately went to a wide shot, because they must've thought the same. That was horrible. Poor guy. Lucky guy! It honestly feels like a miracle."
A sports psychologist discussed with Australia's Surfing Life what happens during and after a traumatic event. It may take some time, but if Fanning stays close to his nearest and dearest, he will likely emerge stronger for what he went through.
"It's important to note that it was a highly adrenalised day for Mick already. He surfed multiple heats and so his sympathetic nervous system would have been in and out of 'fight or flight' mode all day. Then he's sitting there, completely focused on what his next move is going to be as an athlete, and then the moment he's realised what's going on, that he's basically facing his mortality, his fight or flight response would immediately supercharge, sending a massive adrenaline surge through his entire system. ...Then the water patrol arrive and create physical safety, and once everyone realises no harm to Mick or Julian, the activation system begins to drop away from the redline, and then often a flood of mixed emotions begin to pour in."
The WSL Official Statement:
"We are incredibly grateful that no one was seriously injured today. Mick's composure and quick acting in the face of a terrifying situation was nothing short of heroic and the rapid response of our Water Safety personnel was commendable -- they are truly world class at what they do.
"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."
Seconds after Mick Fanning (AUS) was attacked by a shark, he andJulian Wilson (AUS) were picked up by safety boats and removed from the water. The two were just minutes into the Final of at the J-Bay Open when Fanning was attacked. Neither surfer was physically harmed.
Commissioner's Address
CT Commissioner Kieren Perrow discusses next steps after the contest was abruptly cut short.
After meeting with Commissioner Kieren Perrow, Fanning and Wilson agreed to take second place each and split the prize money between them. This is the first time in surfing history that there has been an attack during an event.
For a full breakdown of what happened, watch the WSL's exclusive coverage of the incident. Check out the Finals Day recap and the J-Bay results page for details on the competition.