Close Call at Teahupo’o: When Three Surfers Share One Barrel
Teahupo’o, Tahiti – a name synonymous with heavy water and unforgiving barrels. it’s a wave that demands respect, and sometimes, even a little luck. recently, a swell delivered the conditions surfers dream of, but an attempt at sharing a legendary Chopes tube nearly turned into a chaotic wipeout.
The idea of multiple surfers on a single wave isn’t new. at big-wave spots like Jaws and Nazaré, tow-in teams often share XXL faces. But attempting this inside the hollow confines of Teahupo’o presents a drastically different challenge.
The Attempt & The Near Miss
A clip captured by surf photographer James Ferrell showcases the incident. It features Noah Beschen and Matahi Drollet already committed to a Teahupo’o barrel when another surfer, Felix Patura, unexpectedly entered the fray.
You can view the footage here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/S2rdeLrm2n0
Ferrell explained the situation unfolded on september 3rd, during a swell that blurred the line between tow-in and paddle-in territory. Matahi was positioned behind Noah, both towed into the wave with the intention of capturing unique perspectives from within the tube.
“They’d already successfully ridden a few waves together, aiming for those crazy angles,” Ferrell said. “They were attempting their fifth or sixth double-up of the day.”
However, this wave proved nearly disastrous. As noah and Matahi navigated the face, a slight collision occurred. Simultaneously, Felix Patura, a local charger known for his commitment, began his drop. He hadn’t yet registered the other surfers’ presence.
Commitment vs. Collision
Teahupo’o demands unwavering focus. As Ferrell pointed out, Felix was fully committed to his ride. He only realized Noah and matahi were on the wave at the last possible moment.
“He instinctively tried to back out, but was already committed to the face,” Ferrell described. “He narrowly missed them, going down almost over the top.”
Fortunately, all three surfers emerged unscathed. A collective laugh in the channel followed, a testament to the near miss and the inherent risks of surfing Teahupo’o.
Why This matters: The Risks of Sharing Chopes
This incident highlights the inherent dangers of attempting to share a wave at a location as powerful and unforgiving as Teahupo’o. While sharing waves can be exhilarating, the margin for error shrinks dramatically within the barrel.
here’s what you need to consider:
* Limited Space: The tube at Teahupo’o offers minimal room for maneuverability.
* High Speed: The wave’s intensity and speed amplify the consequences of any miscalculation.
* Unpredictability: Teahupo’o is known for its unpredictable sections and sudden closeouts.
* Priority & Localism: Understanding wave priority and respecting local surfers is crucial.
Ultimately, Felix Patura’s quick reaction and the surfers’ collective luck prevented a serious incident. it serves as a stark reminder of the power of Teahupo’o and the importance of calculated risk assessment.
Related: Check out this incredible footage of 62-year-old Mike Stewart taking on Teahupo’o: https://www.surfer.com/news/mike-stewart-bodyboard-massive-teahupoo
And don’t miss this story about a surfer who faced a surprising twist after being snaked by a local: https://www.surfer.com/news/surfer-snaked-by-local-twist-ending-video
