World Champion Surfer Washed on Rocks, Loses Wedding Ring (Watch)

We spoke too soon.

Just a few days ago, there was an article published right here on this website, praising local Gold Coast, Australia surfers for their expertise in hurdling their bodies off the stone outcropping and into the water at Snapper Rocks, even amid thumping surf.

But one of those surfers featured in that video, one former world champion, had a close call at that very spot. And he shared video, along with a warning.

“Never underestimate the power of the ocean,” Joel Parkinson paired with the video. “Even at your local! All it took was my wedding ring. Sorry babe, the ocean let me have this one. Hopefully you will be as kind.”

Other local surfers chimed in:

“Very lucky there mate.” – Mick Fanning

“Should have hit the washing machine would have been going off!” – Josh Kerr

“The Froggies paddle out. Happens to everyone.” – Jack Freestone

Related: Pro Surfers Expertly Jump into Ocean During Sketchy Snapper Rocks Conditions

From the video, it’s unclear whether Parko had mistimed a rock jump, was trying to exit the water, or simply found himself in a bad spot, washed up against the rocks. But what is clear is that, luckily, he came out unscathed – save for the wedding ring.

Snapper, and particularly behind the rock, has seen some mutant, mean looking waves recently. And it appears that Parko found himself well behind the rocks at Snapper, at the beach they call Froggies.

Tragically, a woman drowned there last year, just before the World Surf League’s Challenger Series kickoff event. She had been swimming, at the time, with her children.

Just another reminder – know your limits; when in doubt, don’t paddle out.

***

Don't miss another headline from SURFER! Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram, and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of surfing. We're always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging surf-related videos to feature on our channels.

Whether you're a professional surfer or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on SURFER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality surf videos.