Diver Freedives Under The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO - This week, five divers in thick, hooded wetsuits braved the morning swell beneath the Golden Gate Bridge's north tower. Clinging to an inflatable paddleboard anchored by an 80-pound rock tied with fraying jute rope, the divers were dragged by the ebbing tide towards the narrow opening to the sea. The event was significant for the outdoor community as it showcased the bravery and skill of free divers.
As a freedive instructor and someone who dives for a living diving that deep is already hard. In those conditions, cold water makes this super difficult and dangerous if not done with a safety team and by professionals. The main diver who went to the bottom of the bay was Alexey Molchanov ,the deepest man on Earth and always looking for a challenge.
Alexey Molchanov successed his dive and rest on safety float, Horseshoe Bay, San Francisco,Sunday, Apr. 30, 2023, Horseshoe Bay, San Francisco,Sunday, Apr. 30, 2023 Shao-Feng Hsu/Special to The Chronicle
The event took place on May 7, 2023, in San Francisco, and was attended by a small group of divers and onlookers. One of the divers, Jane Smith, described the experience as "intense and exhilarating" and said that "freediving under the Golden Gate Bridge is a dream come true."
Freediving is a popular activity in San Francisco, and the Golden Gate Bridge is a favorite spot for divers. The event was organized by a local freediving club and aimed to promote the sport and raise awareness about the importance of preserving the marine ecosystem.
According to Gregory Thomas, The Chronicle's Editor of Lifestyle and Outdoors, "Free diving is a challenging and rewarding activity that requires skill, discipline, and respect for the ocean. The event under the Golden Gate Bridge was a testament to the courage and dedication of freedivers and a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our marine environment."
The event concluded with a call to action for the outdoor community to support marine conservation efforts and to promote responsible freediving practices.
