A dramatic incident unfolded when a foilboarder was unexpectedly launched into the air by a large shark while surfing at Prevelly Beach in Western Australia. Andy McDonald, equipped with a foilboard – a surfboard with a hydrofoil and wingfoil sail for increased speed – was taken by surprise by the shark around 5:45 pm on November 10.
Surveillance footage captured the moment the foilboard and Mr. McDonald were dragged underwater, with his wrist leash becoming entangled with the shark. Subsequent surf cameras recorded the foilboarder struggling in the water next to the massive shark after being struck forcefully, likening the impact to that of a freight train. Mr. McDonald described the sensation of being launched into the air by the shark and feeling like he was above it.
Despite the intense encounter, the 61-year-old Mr. McDonald managed to fend off the shark without sustaining any injuries. However, his cherished foilboard suffered significant damage, with visible bite marks on the craft. Neil Mattinson, a friend of Mr. McDonald, mentioned that the severity of the situation dawned on him once they reached the shore.
The specific details of the shark involved in the incident are still unclear, but efforts are underway to identify the species by extracting DNA from the damaged board. A shark advisory was issued for the beach following the attack, though the beach remained open. Despite the scare, determined surfers, including the resilient 61-year-old foilboarder, returned to the waves the day after the shark encounter.