Photo: Rambo Estrada//WSL
Finals Day at the New Zealand Pro got off to a rocky start when photographer Ed Sloane had a run-in with Manu Bay marine life. The WSL initially announced the men’s semifinal round had been put on hold due to a “wildlife injury” suffered by a member of the league’s staff. The League later addressed specifics on the broadcast.
“At this stage we’re not certain if it was a shark or a sea lion. The doctor that was here helping on the scene was inclined to think it was a sea lion instead of a shark. Nevertheless, very scary,” WSL tours and competition vice president Renato Hickel said.
“Event medical teams responded immediately, and the individual is in stable condition and received on-site medical attention before being transported to the hospital,” said the League.
Competition did eventually resume with Carissa Moore and Italo Ferreira going on to win the 2026 Championship Tour’s fourth event. Sloane shared a brief update the next day along with photos of his foot and news that he’ll be headed to surgery.
“The last few shots I took before something thought they’d see how I went for breakfast + the aftermath sorry,” he wrote on Instagram, thanking the WSL’s staff, medical team, water patrol, as well as Michael Chan and WSL broadcaster Kaipo Guerrero for their support. “Nightmare fuel as it came from directly below. Bit of surgery ahead but should be fine. Thank you also to the Raglan township for sharing this beautiful spot, planning a family trip here to find my mate.”
No doubt the whole WSL and surfers everywhere are hoping for a full recovery and speedy return to the lineup.
