Tributes have been paid to Katherine Diaz, an El Salvadorian surfer killed by lightning while out on the water.
Diaz's death was confirmed by the International Surfing Association (ISA) as having taken place off El Tunco beach in her homeland.
It is with a heavy heart that the ISA has learned about the passing of El Salvador’s Katherine Diaz. pic.twitter.com/7SQCEHPpu3
— International Surfing Association (@ISAsurfing) March 21, 2021
"Katherine embodied the joy and energy that make surfing so special and dear to us all, as a global ambassador of the sport," the organisation said.
"She excelled at the international surfing level, representing her country with prude at both the World Surfing Games and ISA World Junior Surfing Championship."
Katherine Diaz
The Federacion Salvadoreña de Surf wrote on Instagram:
"Our condolences to the Díaz family. A great athlete who has represented our country has left us.
"See you soon. The great warrior El Salvador is in mourning."
Diaz's uncle, Beto Diaz, explained what happened when his niece was out surfing,
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