Staying Social: Pros Respond to Shark Attack

@sageerickson: Truley amazing. So thankful two of our very best are alright after such a surreal experience. Head on with a great white shark in south africa. Couldnt think of anything gnarlier as a surfer & person. Shaken from miles away but so happy @mfanno and @julian_wilson are ok! Sending all my love. You are a true warrior, mick! x

@mfanno: So thankful to be able to have this hug with @julian_wilson this man came to my aid like a warrior!! It was by far the scariest thing I have ever been through and am still rattled. In our sport we always think about sharks and know we are in their domain. Many thanks to all the people that have reached out and sent their wishes. Jbay is an incredible place and I will go back one day. Thanks to the @wsl announcers and water patrol for being on top of us and the care they showed us and to all my friends on tour that were by my side. Love you all.

@courtneyconlogue: POW! I think he can have this on his @wsl stats FANNING 1 SHARK 0 so glad everyone is safe and in one piece ... Except The shark might need a Physio tho after encountering Mick. 😉 @mfanno

@kellyslater: Glad to know this guy and even happier that he swam/walked away unscathed. The only mark on him is a tiny scratch (probably from hitting the shark) on his left hand knuckle. [editor removed line] There were multiple water photogs (including @jimmicane who shot this photo) swimming all day. I believe good things come to good people and although you can't say this was 'good', the outcome was amazing. @mfanno's instincts kicked into high gear and his scramble to face the shark and keep the board between them may have saved him. The scariest moment was when he turned around to face where the shark would be coming from after swimming 20 meters towards shore. I can't even imagine the vulnerability he must've felt. Great job by the contest announcers, water safety for getting right on it, @julian_wilson for paddling to help a friend out and basically everyone there to support.

@alessaquizon: One of the most terrifying things I've ever seen in professional surfing... Literally felt sick watching this. @mfanno you are truly blessed, thank god that no one was hurt. @wsl water safety 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

@keanuasing: An awesome event in #JBayOpen, I'm so happy to say that my friend @mfanno is okay and safe. Thank you God for looking over him and the rest of the surfers out there yesterday. Things become more valuable than winning heats or events. Win, Lose or Draw it doesn't matter, all that matters is that we all have friends, family and eachother. @julian_wilson your an awesome human being for what you did. Wouldn't want to scrap @mfanno he gave that shark "LICKENZ", I'm glad your okay Mick. - Aloha Photo: @jimmicane / @surfingmagazine

@acebuchan: Yesterday was one of the craziest days I've ever experienced. Witnessing one of my best mates get hit by a Great White with my wife and daughter by my side was beyond horrifying. As surfers we all know the risks involved, especially in places like J Bay where the ocean reminds you how alive it is every day. But mid afternoon, under full sun, during a final in front of the whole world? To think I was one made turn away from being in Jules shoes was pretty scary. I would hope I would have had the same reaction he did. That's Mateship. Last night I realised just how special our sport is. Our whole Surfing family came together to celebrate life and just how lucky we all are. It could have been so different. Thanks everyone for all the support. We drank a beer for everyone of you last night. X