Respected Asturian big wave surfer Jacobo Rodríguez, a regular at the La Vaca Gigante big wave event, died last Saturday when he suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest on Salinas beach, several Spanish media reported.

After the incident, the rescuers managed to revive him and took him to the hospital, but his death was later confirmed.

Rodriguez was 51 years old and had traveled all over the planet in search of big, perfect waves. On his Instagram, he can be seen maneuvering, tubing and riding waves all over the place.

The legendary Basque big wave surfer, Axi Muniain, dedicated the following post to her: “I can’t manage to sort out my thoughts and emotions, since yesterday they have been going wild, memories of how lucky we were to be able to share every moment with you coming and going. Your light, your authenticity, heart and kindness were the kind that leave a mark for life.

That's how you lit us up every time and that's how we'll remember you, brother Jacobo Rodriguez, smiling on the wave. There will be many sessions of big waves in which we'll shout your name, we'll talk to the other spheres, we'll break into tears again... But it will never be the same. That smile, the best of the sheltered ports. I love you brother, may you rest in peace."

His wake was held on Sunday, where he was given a “massive farewell,” reports the newspaper La Nueva España.