A tragic incident occurred at Big Bay Beach in Bloubergstrand on Saturday afternoon, resulting in the death of a surfer who was struck by his own surfboard.
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At 1:04pm on Saturday, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness Emergency Medical Services (EMS) received an emergency call regarding a possible drowning at Big Bay Beach. Upon arrival, EMS personnel immediately initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) measures, but despite their efforts, the individual was pronounced deceased.
‘We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, and we kindly request that the public respect their privacy during this difficult time,’ stated EMS.
In a separate incident, a 47-year-old trail runner participating in the Montagu Mountain Mania trail running event sustained injuries after falling.
The WSAR Western Cape team, aboard the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter, was dispatched to Montagu late on Saturday following a trail runner’s fall on the Cogmanskloof Trail.
WSAR spokesperson David Nel recounted, ‘Event marshals were alerted by a passing runner about a participant’s fall and promptly responded to assist. Recognising her inability to continue, they immediately contacted the emergency hotline at 021 937 0300.’
‘One resourceful event crew member used a torch to signal their location to the approaching helicopter amidst the dark mountain shadows,’ Nel continued.
Spotting the flashing light, the helicopter team quickly located the injured runner, saving crucial time.
‘A rescue climber and an EMS paramedic were lowered to her location, where she was secured into a rescue harness and airlifted to a nearby landing zone,’ Nel added.
She was then transferred to a waiting ambulance and transported to the hospital.
‘The operation concluded at 5:30pm,’ Nel concluded.
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Picture: Jacques Stander / Gallo Images