GMAC IS LOW KEY ABOUT RECORDS

Big wave surfer Garrett McNamara made headlines for taking on a massive wave at Praia do Norte, Portugal this week. Many have called it a 90-footer and that records have been set, but when Adventure Journal caught up with McNamara to get his take on the matter, he was playing it low key and more interested in the accomplishment rather than having broken any records.

However the wave that GMac caught was by all measure massive, and the Hawaiian took it on in a calm, and controlled way. While some have jumped on the record setting band wagon, McNamara is happier to celebrate the pursuit and success of taking on these big waves.

Here’s the interview:

Q: When did you realize how big it was going to be — as you were towing into it? as you were dropping in?
I still don’t really know how big it is!

Q: Describe the wave and the ride.
Every wave that comes to Praia do Norte is unique and different than the last. On this wave I just stayed focused on making it. I was wishing that I was a little deeper.

Q: You’ve been exploring Praia do Norte for a couple of years. How rare is a wave this size? How much bigger do you think it can go?
It’s so mysterious here, with the canyon and all. Only mother nature knows the full potential.

Q: Of the top big-wave riders, it seems like you’re the only one exploring Portugal’s potential. Is that true? If so, why?
It is true and that’s a darn good question. I am not really sure why!

Q: How big do you think you can paddle in at Praia do Norte?
Phew, it’s so unpredictable. If you are in the right spot I think you can catch a monster here. If you are in the wrong spot it could be your last ride.

Q: The news release on this week’s ride said the wave was 90 feet and that you broke the world record for the biggest ride, but you weren’t quoted saying that. Do you agree that it’s 90 feet? If not, how big? Do you think it was bigger than Parsons’ 2008 wave at Cortes Bank? Do you think it sets a new world record?
Wow, you are the first person to ask a good question like this. I am going to have to plead the fifth. Hahaha.

Check out a longer version of the video here: 

via: adventure journal    vimeo

Garrett McNamara