An Australian professional surfer is lucky to be alive today after a terrifying run-in with a shark.
Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, comes this shocking splash of reality. As if winning three World Surf Leagues championships wasn't enough, Mick Fanning has just seriously gained legendary status in the surfing world after surviving a shark attack during the JBay Open in Jeffrey's Bay in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.
A first for live TV, the 34-year-old was preparing to catch a wave during the event when he says he felt a presence behind him. As you can see in the video below, Fanning quickly turned around to see the shark attacking him, pulling his board under water. Fanning was able to punch the shark's back to scare him off and swim to safety.
Although some sharks can be friendly and others do not pose a threat to humans unless provoked, it's a true miracle that this surfer was not seriously injured. Here on the East Coast, people have been concerned about an increase in shark sightings on beaches from North Carolina to The Hampton's, yet actual attacks are rare. After Fanning's freak incident, the JBay Open was cancelled.
What do you think about Fanning's terrifying encounter? Please SHARE this video on your Facebook page and let us know in the comments!
