Israel Barona, a member of the Ecuadorian surf team several times, a top surfer on the ALAS tour and an outstanding free surfer, among other things, passed away yesterday in El Salvador, according to several surfers on social media and also his main sponsor, Ecuasal.

Barona was 34 years old, married and had a young son; he was in the middle of his sporting career, having just competed in the ALAS of Puerto Rico, where he made it to the semi-finals, and was getting ready to participate in the ALAS of Las Flores next week.

According to reports from several Ecuadorian media outlets, Barona suffered a heart attack while in El Salvador with his family.

In addition to having competed repeatedly for Ecuador, Barona had become a respected free surfer, riding heavy, perfect waves in different places around the world.

This year he spent a lot of time in the Colorados tubes, in Nicaragua, where he made more than one clip showing all his talent.

Dozens of greetings have flooded social networks remembering him.

“A great man has left us, one of the best Ecuadorian surfers in history, a great human being, father, husband and the best brother,” wrote the Ecuadorian surfing federation.

"Deeply moved by the premature death of Israel Barona, Ecuadorian surfer. My condolences to all his family and friends. We are with you," wrote the Ecuadorian sports minister.

 

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