Jacob Trette, a 30-year-old surfer, is in critical condition in Stanford Medical Center after wiping out in Mavericks, last Saturday.
Trette was paddling out in big wave conditions when a monster wave caught him.
The Southern California rider was found face down in the water by the jet skis, a few moments after the unexpected wave set broke where he was.
Jacob was not breathing and unresponsive when found and CPR was performed by emergency responders.
The surfer was immediately taken to Stanford Medical Center and put in a medically induced coma. "He got completely sucked over the falls," said Jeff Clark, the iconic Mavericks surfer. "He tried getting over the left side, which is way gnarlier. He was way too inside."
Mavericks was pumping 12-15 foot waves but sets were definitely bigger. Personal water crafts were banned from the Northern California coast, so only when it's 20 foot or bigger jet skis may save lives.
Big waves are for experienced surfers. If you do not have enough experience, please stay out of the big surf.
Update (27/01/11)
Our mate is alert and has already talked. He's still recovering at the Stanford Medical Center. Enjoy your second life, Jacob. ;)
Update (26/01/11)
Jacob Trette shows signs of recovering. A Stanford Hospital spokesman says he is in fair condition, three days after nearly drowning in Mavericks.