The outside world may view surfers as chill and care-free. But in reality, tensions can bubble in lineups from Pipeline to Doheny – even at one of the friendliest on earth.
For instance, earlier this week, we reported on a fight that reportedly happened at Waikiki – one of the most beginner-friendly surf spots worldwide – in which a tourist was punched by a local, following an altercation. The tourist even filed a police report.
But wait; the plot thickens. Footage has emerged of the altercation.
Guerrilla news outlet HHNewz, aka Isaac Scharsch, posted the Surfline cam rewind footage supposedly showing the incident in the water. The tourist is on a surfboard, the local on a SUP. It’s unclear what led up to it, but the tourist jumps at the local first, leaping from his board and tackling the SUP surfer off his board. Then, a scrap ensues.
Scharsch explained:
“In the earlier video, a tourist was seen speaking with officers and lifeguards after reporting he was assaulted while surfing. At that time, the suspect was not located, and the tourist was seen writing a statement.
“The new Surfline footage appears to show the tourists making the first physical move toward the local man before the situation escalated.
“This is an important reminder that short clips do not always show the full story. Initial reports can change as more footage and information come in.”
Here’s the earlier footage, showing the tourist speaking with police, just for reference:
At the time, the reporting from Scharsch was as follows:
“A tourist reported being assaulted while surfing in Waikīkī. Video from the scene shows the tourist speaking with officers and lifeguards after the incident. He was also seen writing a statement for police. From what was visible in the footage, there did not appear to be any obvious blood or visible bruising.”
Related: Tourist Punched in the Face While Surfing Waikiki (Video)
Make no mistake, this is still a rare occurrence in surfing. But altercations do happen – even in the unlikeliest of places, like Waikiki. As Scharsch reminded:
“No one owns the ocean, no one owns a surf spot, and no wave is worth fighting over. Whether you are local, visiting, experienced, or new to the water, respect goes both ways. When you paddle out, respect the lineup, respect the people around you, wait your turn, communicate, and do not let ego turn a surf session into a fight.”
Related: Teens Arrested in Brutal Gang Fight on Oahu’s North Shore: ‘He Would’ve Died’ (Video)
Amen.
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