HALF MOON BAY, Calif. – Mavericks always puts on a show when big swells track toward the San Mateo County coast.
Each wave presents a gamble that rewards skilled surfers with the thrill of a lifetime or severe punishment leading to imminent danger.
While the amazing rides highlight each surf day, a safety team has been emerging over the past six years.
The Mavericks Rescue Team is a tight-knit group of eight volunteer locals sharing a passion for the ocean. They devote their time and energy to learning more about the best rescue practices in big surf.
Frank Quirarte is the team manager. He has been patrolling the Mavericks area since the late ’90s.
“We train every year as much as possible,” said Quiarte. “Every surf session out there is a training session for us. It does take a certain skill and choreography to it. It’s something we have mastered over the years.”
The team …