Brazilian Big Wave Surfer Dies at Nazaré

Storied big wave surfer, Marcio Freire, 47, reportedly died yesterday afternoon after losing consciousness during a wipe out at Nazaré. Freire has been on the big wave scene for decades and is considered one of the pioneers of surfing Jaws, one of Hawai’i’s most formidable big wave spots. Portuguese news outlets are reporting that after spending much of the day paddling into waves under his own power, Freire began towing into waves as the swell picked up. According to surftotal.com, he elected not to use an inflatable vest and instead was wearing a floatation style vest. At around 4:15 p.m., Freire wiped out on a wave and lost consciousness. Another surfer in the lineup was able to retrieve Freire and bring him to shore where rescuers quickly resuscitation attempts. Unfortunately, the first responders were unable to resuscitate Freire and he was pronounced dead on the beach. This is the first recorded surfing death at Nazaré.

Marcio Freire was a highly respected and highly capable big wave surfer. He had multiple Big Wave Surfing Award nominations and was a pioneer of one of the biggest big wave surfing spots in the world at Jaws. His death will carry a lasting impact on the greater surfing community.