WSL New Zealand Pro paused after photographer attacked by sea creature
Organisers activate 'code red' protocol amid uncertainty over attacker identity, with on-scene medical staff leaning toward sea lion rather than shark.
The finals day of the World Surf League’s New Zealand Pro in Raglan was suspended on Monday following an incident involving Australian photographer Ed Sloane, who was attacked in the water by a sea creature. The event, which featured the men’s semi-finals between Brazilian surfers Yago Dora and Italo Ferreira, was put on hold while medical teams responded to the situation.
Renato Hickel, the World Surf League’s vice-president of tours and competition, confirmed that Sloane had sustained small puncture wounds to his left foot and was transported to hospital by ambulance. Hickel noted that a 'code red' protocol was activated, which is the standard procedure for sea life attacks on surfers or photographers. He stated that Sloane was in good spirits and well considering the circumstances.
While the specific identity of the creature remains unconfirmed, Hickel indicated that the doctor on scene was inclined to believe the attacker was a sea lion rather than a shark. However, he emphasised that certainty remains low at this stage. The incident occurred during the heat between Dora and Ferreira, with both surfers described as shaken after witnessing the splash and the subsequent attack.
Sloane issued a statement thanking the medical team and the WSL water patrol for their immediate assistance. He confirmed he was receiving medical attention for bites to his left foot and expressed his support for the competitors, stating he loved the location and was eager to watch the epic Finals Day.
The competition resumed several hours later with enhanced safety measures in place. These included the deployment of additional jet skis and a drone spotter to monitor the water, ensuring the event could continue with increased vigilance following the scare.
