LIHUE — A 56-year-old Las Vegas man was rescued Wednesday after rough wind and waves prevented the kite surfer from reaching shore at Salt Pond Beach in Hanapepe. According to a county press release, Police Dispatch was notified of the
LIHUE — A 56-year-old Las Vegas man was rescued Wednesday after rough wind and waves prevented the kite surfer from reaching shore at Salt Pond Beach in Hanapepe.
According to a county press release, Police Dispatch was notified of the incident about 6:30 p.m. Responders from Kauai Fire Department’s Hanapepe station located the kite surfer hanging onto his board roughly 150 yards from shore.
The kite surfer was attempting to swim back to shore. However, a strong ocean current and windy conditions made swimming extremely difficult, and the distressed surfer continued to drift further out.
A firefighter paddled out on a rescue board and encountered low visibility and hazardous conditions. A second firefighter paddled out to assist and both were able to bring the distressed surfer safely to shore.
Fire officials report that the two rescuers were met with applause from bystanders as they approached the beach.
The kite surfer was reported to be in good condition and refused medical treatment.
