Tahitian surfer in critical condition after wipeout at Pipeline

EHUKAI – Tahitian surfer Tuhiti Haumani is in a critical condition in hospital after wiping out near Pipeline on Hawai’i’s North Shore.

Surfer magazine reported locals saying Haumani fell in an awkward position and whenhe didn’t resurface, the North Shore lifeguard and fellow surfers rushed to keep his unresponsive body afloat in heavy seas.

After difficulties getting him to the beach due to the strong current, lifeguards performed CPR before he was rushed to the local hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

Several hours prior, Pipe had been buzzing with activity as John John Florence claimed his forth Volcom Pipe Pro title against Kelly Slater, Mason Ho and Sebastian Zietz.

But with the swell on the rise through the afternoon, the conditions turned from idyllic to deadly for free surfers on the North Shore.

According to witnesses, the 28-year-old Tahitian had been surfing at Ehukai just a couple of hours after the Volcom Pipe Pro finished up next door at Pipeline.

“We’re told the waves were big, the water was rough, and there was strong current as Haumani wiped out on one of his rides,” KITC4 reported.

Haumani’s girlfriend released a statement saying, “We just want to thank everybody for their support and for their prayers.”

Earlier in the week, Italy’s Leonardo Fioravanti broke his back at Pipeline after a heavy wipeout, narrowly escaping permanent paralysis.

News of Haumani’s accident has evoked memories of the late Tahitian Malik Joyeaux, who died surfing Pipeline in 2005.

RIGHT: Tuhiti Haumani riding Teahupo‘o at home in Tahiti.