Garrett McNamara: the Guinness World Records confirmed he rode the biggest wave ever at 78 feet

Garrett McNamara has officially surfed the biggest wave ever. The Guinness World Records have confirmed that McNamara has ridden a 78-foot wave (23,7 meters) in Nazaré, Portugal. As a result, Mike Parsons' ride at Cortes Bank was dethroned.

The announcement was made during the 2012 Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards and confirmed what SurferToday.com reported in November 2011, right after the incredible stunt in the Nazaré Canyon.

"It's amazing we get to do what we do. I am so grateful," said McNamara.

"The world record doesn't mean as much to me. This is for the town of Nazaré and Portugal and for all my family and friends there."

"To be able to give them something to be proud of and inspire them, a world record for this town doing it tough in the middle of nowhere is great."

"I didn't want to get caught up in it all, but I have to tell you the truth: when they announced my name, I got a bigger rush than probably on all the waves I rode this year."

The Portuguese wave was not immediately seen as the biggest ever to be surfed.

Several international sources, magazines, and personal lobbies were at stake, and it was clear that Europe and its waves were under heavy fire. Justice has been done.

Mike Parsons rode a fantastic wave. He is one of the best big wave surfers in the world and will certainly want to improve his record.

The thing is, Garrett McNamara was lucky enough to get a bigger wave.

"It is an honor to bring this title to our waters. Thank you, Garrett. It's great to work with you. For the strength, bravery, and the constant will to improve," says Jorge Barroso, mayor of the town of Nazaré.

"Nazaré is a bit like your second home, and our population admires you. We wish you the best and hope to meet you next year in October, with good and big waves."

Discover the biggest waves ever surfed. Learn more about surfing achievements in the Guinness World Records.

Watch the wave surfed by Garrett McNamara in Nazaré, Portugal.

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