Andy McDonald, 61, experienced a harrowing shark encounter while windsurfing at Bombie surf break near Margaret River, Western Australia, on Monday. Riding his hydrofoil board, McDonald was suddenly grabbed by a shark, but miraculously escaped with only his board bitten.

“Just out of the blue – bang. It felt like a freight train,” McDonald told ABC News. “Something came up from under the water and just propelled me up into the sky.” In the tense moment, adrenaline took over, and McDonald described punching the shark to free himself before safely reaching the shore.

The incident highlights both the unpredictable nature of marine wildlife and the potential dangers for surfers in Western Australia, a region known for strong surf conditions and shark activity. Despite the frightening encounter, McDonald emerged physically unharmed, though his hydrofoil board suffered damage from the attack.

Local authorities continue to remind water sports enthusiasts to remain vigilant and take precautions when surfing or windsurfing in areas known for shark activity, emphasizing awareness, emergency preparedness, and safety equipment.