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So, this just in: a big wave moves really fast. But what if outruns your jetski?
The kind of waves Kai Lenny rides are super dangerous. A wall of water like the behemoths at Nazare can spit out a surfer like a seed, at up to 80 mph.
When wipeouts happen, a big wave surfer’s best chance to make it out alive is to get towed to safety by a jetski rider — one of whom often stands by just in case.
But what happens if the sled’s at full throttle and the next wave is still gaining? Well, watch Lenny “hold on and hope,” as he puts it. The surfer recounts the whole process of the crash — which eventually forced a helicopter rescue from above.
It’s equal parts thrilling, terrifying, and a good learning moment for anyone dropping into big waves.
Runtime: 5.5 minutes
