Pro body boarder saves pro surfer from drowning

OAHU, Hawaii, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Professional body boarder Andre Botha assisted in the rescue of fellow athlete Evan Geiselman after the latter was wiped out by a large wave.

Geiselman, 22, is in recovery after Botha's quick action helped save the surfer's life while the two were free surfing at Pipeline in Oahu, Hawaii. Video of the incident shows Botha dragging Geiselman to safety after he was knocked unconscious while being consumed by the wave.

Geiselman's brother Eric posted a photo of the surfer in recovery and thanked Botha for his actions.

"I am so thankful to see this guy getting back to his senses this morning. Yesterday was such a scary day," he wrote. "I can not thank [Botha] enough for being there and rescuing my brother! Our entire family can not thank you enough brother!"

Botha responded by reposting the photo of Geiselman, rejoicing at his good spirits and thanking the lifeguards who came to the aid of the two athletes.

"It makes me so happy to see that [Geiselman] is doing well and throwing a Shaka! What a strong young man!" he wrote. "Thank you North Shore Life Guard Association you guys are the true heroes!"

Surfer Today reports that Geiselman is in stable condition and recovering well.