New Guinness record for tallest wave surfed

Judges for the awards, considered the official arbiters of big-wave surfing, pored over footage and high-resolution still images from several angles to calculate a more accurate estimate, event director Bill Sharp told the AP.

They used McNamara's height in a crouch and the length of his shin bone to help compare it to the wave's top and bottom, Sharp said.

"You can't deny how big it was for that moment," Sharp said.

Sharp said surfers don't often get a chance to catch waves so big. He put the achievement on par with other infrequent athletic feats like four home runs in a game — which Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton achieved this week — or a perfect game.

"But add to that the fact that the stadium could collapse on you at any second," he said.

McNamara, who began surfing at age 11 and went pro at 17, said the achievement became more important to him when he realized it could help him urge more people to follow their passions.

"The world would be a much better place if everyone was doing what they wanted to do," he said.

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[chyenna-2009]

Freakin fantastic, brave and awesome..Like a water roller coaster with no brakes and he didn't even have to buy a ticket.

[audemus]

My respect for those guys just increased.

[RichZubaty]

Wow! Thanks.

[mikeinwisconsin]

Just like skiing downhill with an avalanche right behind you! Totally awesome

[Bugtooth]

Titainium balls, enuf said...

[dld11211]

Amazing...imagine if he had a web cam on him

[displeased2]

Wow, impressive. I can't imagine the rush that must create, with the roar of the surf bearing down on you. Sure beats those tiny six-foot waves I grew up with.