Lookback: Will Skudin's Mavericks Wipeout from Historic Dec. 28th Swell

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Feb 15, 2024 5:00 PM ET

Nearly two months out, and still, December 28th at Mavericks is still fresh on the minds of many surfers. It was, to say the very least, memorable. Historic, even.

Some called it the “biggest swell in years,” or the “day of the decade,” or “one of the biggest days ever” out at the Northern California big-wave surf spot. And amidst that swell for the ages – however one decides to quantify it – there were numerous moments of glory and chaos, triumph and troubles, epic rides and epic beatdowns.

This one, below, featuring New York's Will Skudin, was one of the beatdowns. And, perhaps, during this day to be remembered, it was the worst wipeout of all.

Footage, recently resurfaced from Powerlines Productions above, shows Skudin towed into a monster, via Portuguese charger Nic Von Rupp. He holds on backside, skipping down the gnarled whitewater face, before tucking in under the lip. But rather, he was a bit too deep, a bit too low. And the gargantuan lip then swallows him whole, nearly decapitating Skudin in the process.

No worries, though. Skudin was alright. He walked away clean. Lived to tell the tale. And speaking of which, here’s a few words from him on that historic day:

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A post shared by Will Skudin (@whitewaterwilly)

“Yesterday - Mavericks

“Rawest/Biggest I’ve ever seen it out there. So Grateful for these moments in life. But mostly the lifelong friendships & camaraderie is why I continue to return. Thanks to the local crew & safety crew for always helping out the Uncles

“Thanks @nicvonrupp for putting me into the belly of the beast. Blessed to team up with you again. Round 2 ✔️”

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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