Magno Passos has ridden one of the biggest waves ever in the history of bodyboarding. The Brazilian caught a 45-foot bomb at Jaws/Peahi, on the historic 15th January 2016.
You could easily say that bodyboarders have an advantage over surfers. They can use their hands to paddle for waves, and they can also use their fins to boost them into the largest sets. Fair enough. But that doesn't mean you're ready for big waves.
Magno Passos is. At least his headspace. The professional bodyboarder relocated to Maui one year ago, and he hasn't regretted his decision since. This time, the 31-year-old didn't need a jet ski. Despite the fear, he chose the right take-off position and aligned his mindset with Jaws.
Passos had no inflatable life vest, and no jet ski rescue team. To make things even worse, he lost a fin when paddling for "the" wave.
"I lost my fins when I was half way down the face of the wave, and I almost lost control of my board. For me it was a miracle not having the lip hitting my legs or my back; it could've broken me in half. Thank you God that sent his angels and made me ride the wave all way until the end," wrote Magno Passos.
The Brazilian rider from Espírito Santo believes bodyboards can be adapted to surf XXL waves. And he admits he might try his luck in the unexplored world of big wave bodyboarding. Watch Magno Passos paddling out at Jaws at 3:21.