Steve Schafer died as a result of a shark attack while kitesurfing on February 3, 2010 just south of Stuart Beach. He may have been the first kiter to be lost in this fashion worldwide. This photo was taken a mile south of where Steve was riding when the attack occurred. I didn't go up with the intent of remembering Steve but that is inevitable every time I ride off the House of Refuge. He lives on in the waters of this place for myself, perhaps others as well. By coincidence this session was five years plus two days from the date of his passing. The blacktip sharks are running north again along with even larger predatory sharks although I didn't see any sharks, feeding birds, jumping bait or the like on this day. I pay particular attention for such signs when I kite even more so after Steve's passing. We're thinking of you Steve.
The House of Refuge
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