The video above makes us proud of surfing. We go from seeing the horror of a man dying, a friend dying… and then the heroism of those going out to save him.

It makes us proud to be surfers – proud to be part of a community that puts everything on the line for their teammates, their friends and their fellow surfers. Because of Andre Botha, Evan Geiselman is still breathing – because of how quickly the surf community rushed to Evan’s aid, he’s still breathing. So thank you Andre, you’re a real hero. And thank you surfing, you’re unlike any other sport, unlike any other lifestyle, unlike any other community.

Ev posted this Instagram last night, letting the world know he’s alive and as well as can be. 

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And Andre Botha posted this. He hits the mark… “I’m sure any other professional wave rider would have done the same thing. It is a code of honor between those who risk their lives in the ocean.” We couldn’t have said it better, Andre. 

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You can read the full report of Evan’s life-threatening experience over here. We’re so glad he’s OK.

– Mimi LaMontagne