Port Alfred surfing legend dies
Macgregor a mentor to many
Tributes have poured in for Port Alfred surfer, surf instructor and journalist, David Macgregor. The 55-year-old multiple SA longboard champion and founder of Port Alfred’s Shaka Surf School and Lodge died during a recreational surfing session at Kelly’s Beach, Port Alfred, on Monday afternoon, February 26.
He had suffered a health setback a month ago and friends said they believed his passing, “while doing what he loved” may have been related.
“His family is obviously devastated,” said friend and fellow surfer Warwick Heny, who had been assisting at the scene.
National Sea Rescue Institute spokesperson Craig Lambinon said that at 5.05pm on Monday, the NSRI Port Alfred duty crew had activated following reports of a surfer in difficulty at Kelly’s Beach.
“Our NSRI Port Alfred duty crew responded directly to the scene with medical equipment, while our NSRI rescue craft JetRib was launched, our NSRI rescue vehicle was dispatched and Gardmed ambulance services, SA Police Services, EC government health EMS and Multi-Security responded,” Lambinon said.
Reports followed that a person who was in difficulty in the surf had been recovered to the beach and bystander CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) efforts were in progress.
“On arrival on the scene, extensive CPR efforts continued,” Lambinon said.
After all efforts were exhausted, he was declared deceased.
Lambinon said it appeared that fellow surfers had noticed that Macgregor may have been unconscious in the water. He was in the surf zone, with his surfboard.
“They rescued him to the shoreline where they initiated CPR,” Lambinon said.
Ndlambe lifeguards and NSRI members, who were nearby at the time, joined in the CPR efforts and the alarm was raised.
Lambinon said Macgregor, who had a close relationship with the NSRI for decades, may have suffered a medical incident while surfing.
As well as being a local legend, Macgregor was well known in surfing circles across SA.
Through his own achievements
It’s a sad day in the Kowie as we mourn the loss of a Kowie Legend, Dave Macgregor. Dave, a true waterman passed on yesterday evening while doing what he loved most, surfing! Dave was a skilled surfer who lived life to the fullest, his passion for the ocean was inspiring and he loved nothing more than sharing his passion with others
(as a SA longboarding champion) as well as his work as a surfing instructor, he was treasured as a mentor and friend by people of all ages from every corner of the globe.
Just under a decade ago, Macgregor paused his career as a respected journalist to pursue his dream of living and working with the ocean to open Port Alfred’s Shaka Surf School and Lodge.
Macgregor was active in the Kowie Boardriders Club, and on their Facebook page the KBC posted:
“It’s a sad day in the Kowie as we mourn the loss of a Kowie Legend, Dave Macgregor.
“Dave, a true waterman passed on yesterday evening while doing what he loved most, surfing! Dave was a skilled surfer who lived life to the fullest, his passion for the ocean was inspiring and he loved nothing more than sharing his passion with others.
“Beyond his achievements in surfing, Dave was deeply devoted to his family, taking immense pride in his two sons, Cuan and Kye.
“He was actively involved in the community, offering support and guidance to many, including those less fortunate.
“Dave’s spirit, enthusiasm, and love for the ocean will be remembered fondly, living on in the hearts of all who knew him. The Kowie Boardriders Club extends its sincere condolences and love to the entire Macgregor clan. Ride free, Dave... Shaka brother.”