Surfing legend Keith Malloy recently shared a chilling account of witnessing a fatal shark attack at Muriwai Beach, New Zealand, during an interview on the Lay It On podcast. The attack, which occurred in 2013, claimed the life of award-winning filmmaker Adam Strange, leaving a lasting impact on those who witnessed it.
Malloy, known for his purist approach to bodysurfing, recounted the harrowing event to host Brad Leone, a chef renowned for his fermentation expertise. “We went over to New Zealand. We got a cool little house down by the beach,” Malloy began. “We all jump in this water, swim around for half an hour. Water’s just wonderful. And this guy comes down. He was the only other person on the beach. So we walked off the beach. He swam out. Right where we were swimming.”
The tranquility of the scene was shattered when the man was attacked by a shark. “Dude, he got chomped,” Malloy recalled. “He died. I was the last guy to talk to him ever, and we were in the water right where he swam out.” The situation escalated as police arrived with machine guns, attempting to retrieve the body from the shark’s jaws.
“They’re shooting at the shark with the body in its mouth, swimming around 100 yards out to sea. And the shark actually let go of the body, and they retrieved it and brought it back here,” Malloy described.
A Tragic Loss and Its Aftermath
Adam Strange, the victim of the attack, was a beloved figure in the creative community, known for his vibrant personality and dedication to his craft. Friends and family described him as a “glorious and great father, husband, and friend.” The incident left a deep scar on the local community, with comments on social media reflecting the somber reality of the tragedy.
“It’s a true story, this is our local beach RIP Adam Strange, sadly another young kid, gifted surfer was also nearby and witnessed the whole thing, years later it became too much,” one comment read.
The event also sparked criticism from some quarters, with notable New Zealand artist expressing disapproval of the lighthearted tone of the podcast interview. “Not cool story, bro,” the artist remarked, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding the incident.
Surfing’s Evolution and Challenges
While the surfing community continues to grapple with the risks inherent in the sport, it also celebrates its advancements. The evolution of surfing techniques, such as aerial maneuvers, has transformed the sport, making once-rare feats more commonplace. Surfers like Italo Ferreira have pushed the boundaries, performing back-to-back aerials during competitions.
However, the pride in these advancements was recently challenged by British kite surfer Jake Scrace, who set a new world record for the highest air, soaring 1,587 feet into the sky. This achievement dwarfed the highest surf air ever recorded at 6 feet.
“I’m already thinking about what the next stunt could be and where we can go with it,” Scrace told the BBC. “The sense of freedom was incredible and I’m buzzing that we got the record on the first attempt.”
Despite the use of a motor to achieve his record-breaking height, Scrace’s feat has inspired surfers to dream bigger, sparking discussions on how to reclaim the record.
King Island: A Surfer’s Haven
For those seeking a surfing paradise, King Island offers an enticing opportunity. Located in the Bass Strait, the island is home to some of the world’s most iconic surf breaks, attracting champions like Kelly Slater. A new listing for 500 hectares of beachfront land on King Island presents a unique chance for surfers to immerse themselves in this idyllic setting.
The property, positioned near the legendary Martha Lavinia swell, offers development potential for eco-friendly cabins or a coastal residence. Beyond surfing, King Island boasts award-winning golf courses, a celebrated arts and food culture, and a welcoming local community.
“Positioned near one of the world’s most iconic surf breaks — revered by champions like Kelly Slater,” the listing describes.
With its remote location and stunning natural beauty, King Island represents both a retreat and a gateway to surfing excellence.
Celebrating Surfing’s Global Impact
The recent conclusion of the 2025 International Surfing Association World Surf Games in El Salvador showcased the global reach and cultural significance of surfing. Australia emerged victorious, claiming its sixth gold medal and reaffirming its status as a powerhouse in the sport.
Dane Henry’s individual gold medal win placed him among elite surfers who have achieved both World Surfing Games and World Junior Surfing Championship titles. “That is a crazy club to be a part of,” Henry expressed, highlighting his connection to the competition and location.
“The whole time I had belief in myself that I could do it. My surfing’s been feeling spot on. I really wanted to really shine in the Final and I’m really glad that I got the opportunity to do that,” Henry said.
ISA chief Fernando Aguerre praised El Salvador’s commitment to surfing, acknowledging the country’s role in promoting the sport’s Olympic future. “We came here in peace, we spent these two weeks in peace, and now we return home in peace. That is the true spirit of surfing,” Aguerre stated.
As the surfing world continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the enduring allure and transformative power of the ocean. From personal stories of tragedy and triumph to the celebration of global achievements, surfing’s narrative is one of resilience, innovation, and community.
