Curiosity
Nicholas Mevoli: Man Dies After Freediving 72 Metres During Competition
Nick Mevoli died after the 72m dive. Source: Supplied
Freediving is a thrilling sport that does not come without its risks. Unfortunately, American freediver Nick Mevoli did not recover after surfacing from his 72 meter dive at a competition this weekend, reports the Sun Herald.
Mevoli is a native New Yorker who only began freediving a year ago. He was quite good for his experience level, and he even won an event in the Caribbean earlier this year. The event he was participating in this weekend is called Vertical Blue. It is regarded by many as the most prestigious to compete and win.
The 10-day competition brought together 56 divers from 21 countries who took part in a variety of events.
Nick entered the competition in hopes of winning and breaking the record for the deepest dive without fins. This is when divers plummet to the bottom as far as they can go without aid from flippers or propellers.
He reached 72 meters in just over three and a half minutes before heading back up. However, it was clear he was not doing well the minute he took off his goggles. Mevoli then passed out, but he died later that day despite valiant effort to resuscitate him. The event was canceled as a sign of respect for the diver. This is also the first freediving death in over two decades.
Vertical Blue said it was trying to figure out what happened.
“Competition freediving has an enviable safety record but the sport can never be risk-free, something understood by all freedivers,” it said in a statement.
Novice, but world-class: Mr Mevoli set a handful of records and placed in the top three of multiple tournaments this year, even winning one
On The Web:
Man Dies After Freediving 72 Metres
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/lifestyle/health/freediver-nicholas-mevoli-dies-after-descending-72-metres-in-the-bahamas/story-fni0dgzn-1226762722694
Man dies trying to set freediving record
http://www.cnn.com/2013/11/18/us/free-diver-death/