A whole new hell.
Big wave stud muffins are a breed unto themselves. Forever linked to forecasting tools, ready to travel halfway around the world at a second’s notice, prepared, gutsy, united in an often unsung pursuit for glory. Now, any student of that particular art is well aware of Jamie Mitchell. The brave beast hunter is known for slaying outer reef bombs, alongside being the 10x Molokai to Oahu paddle champion, and his legendary temper which he flashed after a session at Todos Santos on Friday the 13th.
Taking to Instagram, Mitchell penned:
Friday the 13th . Mixed emotions to be honest . Our crew was prepared and ready for a epic day of waves . Sometimes the universe has other plans . If i’m being honest a disappointing day for the big wave community regarding the safety of each individual. I won’t dive to deep here on SM but things need to change. Grateful that everyone is safe and home back to there families. It’s been a wild 10 days to say the least but wouldn’t change it for the world. Mucho gracias @gerglong and @jojoroper Love you guys . And the rest of the pit crew @flickpalmateer @lucapadua @arefrapwell @nuttynulty @nlcphoto @hargrave @coxbox12 #mango #chapmanmurphy @ian.walsh @paigealms. Back home to regroup , rest and some family time. Last but very not least to my amazing wife and family for supporting me always. I (heart) you guys.
Oh.
I suppose Jamie Mitchell does not, in fact, have a legendary temper. I’ve had the honor of spending some time with him on a boat in Teahupo’o and he could not have been kinder nor more gracious. Reading between the “disappointing” and “no deep dive,” witness reported that the Todos Santos lineup was absolutely clogged with very aggressive go-getters. So aggressive, in fact, that Mexican legend Coco Nogales became injured.
The situation mirrors a recent day at Waimea where some who did not belong paddled anyhow and went straight, sending more legends to the hospital.
But is this the big wave future?
Lineups packed and combative?
Mark Zuckerberg shaking his fist while demanding his own?
Apocalypse now.