Russell Bierke back in the saddle - video
"I remember feeling almost euphoric and really dazed, like I was in a dream almost."
In April this year Russ Bierke was clubbed by his own board and knocked unconcious while surfing on Victoria's West Coast. He was taken to hospital with a badly cut jaw and water on his lungs, however if it wasn't for the quick thinking of those around him it could've been worse.
The following session was Russ' first back in the water and it shows that the incident has done little to quell his big wave desire.
Comments
WTF?...hows his board at 1:26
I've heard some negativity around the traps lately regarding his exposure of certain spots...but there's no doubt he's absolutely the future of Australian big wave riding.
He's not exposing anywhere that Mark Mathews, Hippo and all the rest have already exposed years before him. Is he?
Probably not...I don't know most of the spots myself...it's more of an old guys lament I guess that surfers of this ilk used to be tight lipped, respectful and more of an underground approach. These days the disappointment lies in the fact that the new generation of big wave surfers are setting the exact opposite example. Commentary aside I have huge respect for his ability in the water...poise beyond his years.
Who should we blame for the exposure of surf breaks, the paid surfer? The sponsor? The surf website or social media? The secrets of this area blew out 15 years ago and has got worse ever since.
Late 80's , early 90's no one used to surf out there, just a select few, without boat or ski
I have no idea where this is. South Coast NSW?
Doesn't hold back the young fella that's for sure.
I really wish they wouldn't show the landscape in the background in these clips. If you've ever been here, knowing where Russ is from, it's easy to figure out where it is. Even if you haven't been there they provide enough detail for a quick Google Earth search to locate the wave.
I guess it's not exactly a super secret spot any more but it still grinds my gears.
Perfect . In more ways than one .
Wow, total commitment & control.
20yrs ago back when I rode a sponge this place was empty as were many spots in the area. Surfers back then wouldn't touch the place. Most spongers know where this and most spots in the area, it's been getting coverage for ages. For most guys who surf like me the only reason I would go there now is to watch!
Hey I wouldn't have a clue where this is and wouldn't be in the LineUp if I did. Outstanding backhand surfing.
Great guy good to see him back surfing insane