I'm interested to see what you readers out there think of this clip for Nat Geo Wild, featuring our very own OJ Symcox and the article written by Kerry Wright in the latest issue of the BOMBsurf (issue 13, pg 68-79) called "Understanding the Shark Factor"
It's an age old, extremely sensitive topic. But are we actually getting any closer to understanding shark behaviours as a result? Will articles and documentaries like this a) change our attitude toward how we see sharks? and if so b) will that make us change at all regarding when and where we surf?
I've freedived with Tigers, black-tips and Raggies, quite a few times, even with OJ on a few occasions - and I was fascinated by the findings in Kerry's article. I still shit myself to go surfing at certain spots, at certain times of the year. I like to think I love sharks ...more when I'm diving with them than surfing. Then I'd just prefer them to stay further off shore!
Kerry Wright's article in theBOMBsurf issue 13.
My opinion is that sharks are always going to act like sharks and explore their territories in search of food - their behaviour is too random to predict any set of "criteria" as to when you should and shouldn't surf - besides common sense prevailing, the risk is always there that you'll be in the same place at the same time as a big, curious shark - and that's not an experience any surfer is going to enjoy - whether they are threatened by the shark or not, and like me, whether they are a self-professed "shark-lover".
Post your comments below, and please indicate if or if not you've read Kerry's very comprehensive article in theBOMBsurf...
