Surf legend Chris Davidson, 45, dies after being punched in brawl outside nightclub
NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA: Famous former Australian surfer Chris Davidsons died after an alleged assault on the New South Wales mid-north coast. The 45-year-old who was hit in the face fell and struck his head on the pavement, and died as per the police who were called at the South West Rocks Country Club on Saturday, September 24, just after 11 pm. The officials have apprehended a man related to this incident.
Chris Davidson was found unresponsive on the ground by the police. He was treated at the scene by the paramedics, taken to the hospital, and was pronounced dead shortly after. Following this deadly assault, a 42-year-old man was arrested in South West Rocks early on Sunday, September 25, and was charged with assault causing death as reported by 9News. Grant Alec Coleman appeared in Port Macquarie bail court on Sunday, September 25, and was denied bail. The professional surfer rose to fame after he beat eleven-time World Surf League champion, Kelly Slater, in 1996. However, his career went downhill after he had to go through some injuries, family problems, and his imminent involvement with drugs. As per local media, the accused will now appear in court in November.
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Davidson made an epic comeback in 2010 and 2011 after he competed in the Men's Championship Tour, finishing third behind Slater at the 2010 Rip Curl Pro Portugal. Slater remembered his competition saying, "Had many a good battle with this guy. One of the most naturally talented surfers I ever knew. Lost another soldier yesterday. #RipChrisDavo. Had many a good battle with this guy," in an Instagram story. Surfing Australia posted on Facebook, "Surfing Australia and the surfing community are mourning the loss of former WSL Championship Tour surfer Chris Davidson, who passed away at Kempsey Hospital on Saturday evening. Davo was an incredibly talented surfer and a true individual in our sport and community. Our thoughts go out to his two children, friends and family at this time."
Davidson, born in Sydney, grew up surfing at North Narrabeen on Sydney's northern beaches and was able to make a name for himself with his finesse as he was often dubbed as one of the most stylish surfers of his time. He was ranked 14th overall on the 2010 world tour. Davidson's close friend Nathan Hedge told Today, "He had so much more life to give, to enjoy and cherish. I will miss his laugh, I will miss his practical jokes, I will just miss his passion." World Surf League remembered the surfer saying, "The World Surf League, and the surfing community at large, are saddened to learn that former CT surfer Chris Davidson, of Narrabeen, Australia tragically passed away on Saturday. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."