Professional surfer Giulia Manfrini died after being fatally impaled by a swordfish in what is described as a freak accident. She was 36 years old.
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According to the BBC, Manfrini had been surfing in Mentawai Islands Regency, West Sumatra Province, on Friday, Oct. 18, when the accident happened. Witnesses stated they tried to provide first aid to the Italian surfer after a swordfish hit her in the chest. After being rushed to a nearby medical center, she was pronounced dead.
James Colston, who co-founded travel agency AWAVE Travel with Giulia Manfrini, took to Instagram to reveal details about her unexpected death.
“Giulia was surfing in remote Indonesia and suffered a freak accident. Unfortunately, even with the brave efforts of her partner, local resort staff, and doctors, Giulia couldn’t be saved,” he wrote. “We believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved.”
Colston then stated, “Giulia was the lifeblood of this company and her infectious enthusiasm for surf, snow, and life will be remembered by all that came in contact with her. Giulia couldn’t travel without people falling in love with her smile, laugh and endless Stoke. Anyone was lucky to have her on board a charter or surf trip!”
Colston further pointed out that AWAVE Travel will still operate. The company’s team will be available to handle all ongoing trips. “We value your kind words, memories of Giulia, and all that she leaves behind. We love you Giulia. I am so sorry to say goodbye.”
The Mayor of Giulia Manfrini’s Hometown Also Paid Tribute to Her
In a post on his Instagram account, Fabio Giulivi, the mayor of Giulia Manfrini’s hometown Venaria Reale, paid tribute to the professional surfer.
“The news of her death has left us shocked,” Giulivi stated. “And makes us feel powerless in front of the tragedy that took her life so prematurely.”
He continued to share, “Giulia, from Venaria, only 36 years old, had long had her double dream of surfing, her favorite sport, and of opening a travel agency for sports holidays. And so, in the middle of life, she misses her loved ones in such a tragic way in the Indian Ocean.”
The Mayor then stated, “To mum Chiara, dad Giorgio, and all the people who loved her, a touched hug from me and the whole City.”