Shark sighting in Huntington Beach puts Vans Jacks Surfboards Pro surfing competition ‘on hold’

HUNTINTON BEACH, Calif. () — A shark sighting has forced the Vans Jack’s Surfboards Pro surfing contest to be put “on hold” for 24 hours, organizers said Friday.

The sighting occurred Thursday afternoon in the competition zone after the event’s activities had ended for the day, according to a statement from the World Surf League Qualifying Series and Jack’s Surfboards. No injuries were reported.

“The safety of our surfers and staff is our top priority, and competition will resume once the water safety team and local authorities confirm the competition area is clear,” the statement said. “At this point, event organizers will look to resume competition” at 7 a.m. Saturday.

Jack’s Surfboards also posted a tongue-in-cheek photo on Facebook that showed “one very enthusiastic spectator” — a shark in the water, under the caption “I swear i just came to watch the surf.”

The competition “resumes tomorrow — we’re still here today with activations,” the Friday social media post said.