RAGLAN, New Zealand (FN) — The finals of the World Surf League’s New Zealand Pro were briefly halted Monday after a water photographer was bitten in the ocean by what officials believe was either a shark or a sea lion.
The incident unfolded during the men’s semi-finals featuring Brazilian surfers Yago Dora and Italo Ferreira. A “code red” was called as medical teams rushed to help Australian photographer Ed Sloane, who suffered puncture wounds to his foot and was taken to hospital.
World Surf League vice president Renato Hickel described the moment as frightening for everyone watching. He said a doctor on site leaned toward the likelihood of a sea lion rather than a shark, but uncertainty remains. Dora and Ferreira were visibly shaken after witnessing the splash and commotion.
Sloane later thanked medical staff and the WSL patrol for their quick response. “I am doing okay, I’ve had bites to my left foot and am getting medical attention,” he said, adding that he was eager to see the finals continue.
After several hours, competition resumed with added safety measures, including jet skis and drone surveillance to monitor the water.
Marine life encounters have disrupted surf competitions before. In 2015, Australian surfer Mick Fanning famously fought off a shark during the J-Bay Open in South Africa, an incident broadcast live worldwide. In California, sea lions have occasionally bitten swimmers and surfers, though such attacks are rare. Experts say both sharks and sea lions can mistake humans for prey or intruders.
Local authorities said they would keep a close watch on Raglan’s waters, emphasizing that safety protocols were followed. Marine biologists urged caution, noting that sea lions can be territorial and aggressive if startled.
On social media, fans expressed relief that Sloane’s injuries were minor. “Scary moment, glad he’s okay,” one user wrote. Others debated whether the bite was more likely from a shark or sea lion, with some joking that “sea lions are the new sharks.”
The World Surf League stressed its commitment to safety, pointing out that “code red” procedures are designed to protect athletes, staff, and spectators whenever marine life incidents occur. The finals continued under heightened vigilance, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of ocean sports.
