Pro Surfer Makai McNamara in Coma After Freak Accident at Banzai Pipeline

Image credits: Courtesy of HHHNewz

Pro surfer Makai McNamara is in a coma after a freak accident at Banzai Pipeline, one of the world's most dangerous surf breaks, where he wiped out and hit his head on the reef. The incident occurred on February 23, when McNamara was surfing at the pipeline and was knocked unconscious after being wiped out by a large wave. Lifeguards, friends, and family swam toward McNamara in the ocean before bringing him to safety on the shore. Fellow pro-surfer Eli Olson, a friend of McNamara, described the events as a "freak accident" and noted that his friend is "so talented" and "one of the best [surfers] out there."

According to Olson, McNamara was underwater for almost two minutes before he could reach him. "First thing, I just wanted to like keep his head above water so he didn't take more water in,” he recalled. “I gave him a couple [of] breaths. Try to give him a couple [of] compressions." After regaining consciousness, McNamara was taken to hospital and put in an induced coma for 72 hours. The medical team is monitoring his condition closely, and his family is asking for prayers and positive energy to aid in his recovery.

A day after the incident, McNamara’s father Liam took to Instagram to share an update on his son's progress. "It's been 24 hours since the incident and he's on his road to recovery," he said. "He feels your energy, he feels your love, he feels your positive vibes and we appreciate each and every one of you for your support.” Liam continued, “I thank the lifeguards and everybody who helped, so many people. Thank you so much for helping save my son.” The family is grateful for the outpouring of support and is asking for privacy during this difficult time.

Meanwhile, Olson also shared an update via Instagram Stories, noting that the rescue was a "team effort" and expressing his hopes that McNamara makes a "full recovery." The surfing community is coming together to support McNamara and his family, with many offering words of encouragement and support. As McNamara continues to recover, his family and friends are remaining optimistic about his chances of making a full recovery.

The incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in surfing, particularly at dangerous breaks like Banzai Pipeline. However, with the support of his family, friends, and the surfing community, McNamara is expected to make a full recovery. The timeline of events is as follows: * February 23: McNamara is involved in a freak accident at Banzai Pipeline * February 24: McNamara is put in an induced coma for 72 hours * February 25: McNamara's father Liam shares an update on his son's progress * February 26: Olson shares an update via Instagram Stories, noting that the rescue was a "team effort" and expressing his hopes that McNamara makes a "full recovery".