“Unimaginable Tragedy”: Kelly Slater Joins Surfing Community to Mourn Horrifying Incident in Sport

The tight-knit surfing world is engulfed in sorrow following a distressing incident in the waters of Baja California, Mexico. Two brothers from Australia, Callum, and Jake Robinson, along with their American companion Carter Rhoad, ventured across the border in the last week of April to experience the region’s legendary surf breaks. Their journey ended in unspeakable tragedy, leaving the surfing community to grapple with profound grief.

Renowned professional surfer Kelly Slater took to Instagram to express his heartache over the devastating news. “Our hearts go out to these guys and their friends and families. What an unimaginable tragedy.” Slater wrote, his words resonating deeply among wave riders mourning this immense loss.

Callum, 33, Jake, 30, and Carter, 30, had crossed into Mexico on April 27th, eager to ride the famed waves of Baja. Callum’s shared photos captured the trio’s jubilation, from sipping coffee while marveling at the vast ocean to savoring authentic street tacos. However, their sun-drenched escapade took an appalling turn when they failed to arrive at their Rosarito Beach accommodation as planned.

A massive search operation ensued, mobilizing Mexican authorities, the FBI, and marine units. The disappearance and presumed deaths have cast a pall over Baja California and the global surfing community. As tributes pour in from fellow surfers worldwide, the loss of these three adventurers has left an indelible mark on the sport they cherished. The surfing community stands united in mourning, honoring the memories of Callum, Jake, and Carter, and sending strength to their grieving families and friends during this darkest of times.

Kelly Slater’s generous contributions: A lifeline during crisis

Kelly Slater’s 11 world titles are a testament to his longevity and mastery in competitive surfing. Slater became the youngest world champion in 1992 at age 20 and won his final title at age 39 in 2011. Besides so many records, he played a pivotal role in providing resources for the recovery of surfers and the surfing community.

Slater with the help of others preserved the North Shore’s beauty, stopped high-rise condos, and maintained its original appeal to surfers worldwide. Kelly Slater has made significant contributions beyond competition, such as creating the Surf Ranch wave pool, which is shaping the future of surfing. He’s also a strong voice for ocean conservation and sustainability.

Back in 2010, to honor Kelly Slater’s 10th ASP World Surfing Championship and his philanthropy, the Quiksilver Foundation donated $100,000 to 10 non-profit organizations chosen by Slater through the “10 for TEN“ initiative. His unwavering commitment has complemented his extraordinary surfing career to preserve the integrity of surfing, promoting sustainability, and supporting various philanthropic causes.