Johnny McGee, 67, from Pasadena, TX, says he has been surfing for over half a century. Years of training made themselves felt when the man had to use all his experience — and save two young women from the raging waters.
The incident took place at Surfside Beach, south of Houston. A couple of girls, aged 17 and 18, snapped a photo at the dock when they were washed away by huge waves caused by Hurricane Hannah. Hearing the victims calling for help, McGee immediately rushed to them.
“I think I was destined to be there. McGee says. «There was not a soul around anymore.»
McGee swam up to the girls on his surfboard, asked to grab his legs, and headed back to the shore — where three eyewitnesses were already waiting to help Johnny and the victims get out of the water.
“I don’t know their names, but I am grateful for the help,” the man notes.
WOW WHAT A STORY !!!
67 yo surfer Johnny McGee tells us how he and 3 other surfers helped rescue 2 young women who fell off the jetty at Surfside Beach during Hurricane Hanna !!!
More tonight on @ KPRC2 at 4pm and 6pm! pic.twitter.com/fcX3MNkEK8
— Sofía Ojeda (@ KPRC2SofiaOjeda) July 28, 2020
Reflecting on the incident, McGee says that he tried his best not to let the girls panic.
“Surfers know from experience that once you are underwater, you [should] relax and unwind again. There is no need to fight, otherwise you will waste energy and oxygen. »
The girls, who asked not to be identified, were taken to hospital with minor bruises and cuts. They are expected to be fine.
