SURF CHAMP LOST
SURFING champion Kalani David has died at the age of 24 after experiencing a medical emergency while practicing.
The Hawaiian pro died in Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica on Saturday after suffering a seizure while in the water, according to local officials.
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“He was surfing when he apparently suffered some kind of epileptic seizure and drowned,” the country's Judicial Investigation Department told the Associated Press.
"Kalani passed away in Costa Rica today, he had a massive seizure while surfing," friend Peter King wrote in an Instagram post announcing the death.
He continued: "He had re-connected with family there and was having such a great time. I'll always remember your stoke when we'd shoot skate n surf, and how much hop you had for (your) future.
"God bless the family and extended family that were always there for you."
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David's younger brother shared a message on Instagram after the surfer's death, as reported by The New York Post.
“You are the best brother I could ever ask for. I will miss you Kalani," wrote Keoni.
The athlete reportedly suffered from a congenital heart condition known as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and underwent heart surgery six years ago.
The death remains under investigation, according to Costa Rican officials.
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A former world junior surfing champion, Kalani obtained second place in the Red Bull Airborne final in 2019 in Bali.
Davis was also an accomplished skateboarder.
David ranked higher than pro skaters Bucky Laskek and Bobby Burnquist all while competing at the World Juniors Championships in Bali, according to Beach Grit.
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He had opened up about his health issues before, telling Stab magazine in 2016: “If it was life or death, and I had to choose skating or surfing.
“I’d choose death.”