Michael Reardon Taken out to Sea by Rogue Wave in Ireland

by Jake Mack
(Washington)

On the afternoon of Friday July 13, just a day before Michael Reardon was to head home to Marci and Nicki, Michael wanted to show Corso(his photographer) a wild crag below Valentia Coast Guard and Radio staion.

There was still a chance of him getting to the Skelligs early next morning to climb a unclimbed crack-line between gannets and monastic ruins, and all eyes were on the sea conditions.

After completing the climb A "rogue" wave rose out of the sea and surged towards the cliff, and Michael was swept from his feet and slid along the low-angle seaweed-covered ledge into the surf. In an instant, he was 200 metres off shore amid the mighty swell and seen for the last time.

Corso raised the alarm for aid at the Coast Guard station, and within minutes Valentia Lifeboat were on the scene.

After much effort of many search parties Michael was never found. Reardon lived his life with purpose and passion and the Michael Reardon Legacy will inspire many for years and years to come.