SURFING A RECORD-BREAKING WAVE

Potential world record at Praia do Norte, Portugal

Brazilian surfer Carlos Burle may have broken the record for largest wave ever surfed at Praia do Norte off the coast of Portugal. The wave’s height is estimated at 100 feet, though it’s difficult to determine with precision.

Thirty-four-year-old English surfer, Andrew Cotton, may have also broken the record during the session, with a wave whose height is estimated at 80 feet, just two feet more than Garrett McNamara‘s record from earlier this year. McNamara was equally present and surfing.

A second Brazilian surfer, Maya Gabeira, almost drowned after falling. She was resuscitated on the beach and immediately taken to the nearest hospital. She is reportedly doing well despite a broken ankle.

Although known for its exceptional waves, the conditions at Praia do Norte were particularly favorable due to the storm St. Jude that swept the European coast.