Watch: Surf coach saves father, daughter from rip current in California

Surf coach saves father and daughter from rip current

A Southern California surf coach was hailed a hero after saving a father and daughter from a rip current in Oceanside Harbor. (Credit: Kim Rose via Storyful)

OCEANSIDE, Calif. - A surf instructor in Southern California is being celebrated for a quick-thinking rescue that saved a father and his young daughter from dangerous ocean conditions at Oceanside Harbor.

According to local news reports, the incident happened during the Western Surfing Association’s Oceanside Harbor South Jetty competition. 

Surf coach saves father, daughter from rip current

By the numbers:

Lucas Taub, who coaches the surf team at Westcliff University, was watching from the jetty when he noticed the pair struggling in a powerful rip current.

A Southern California surf coach was hailed a hero after saving a father and daughter from a rip current in Oceanside Harbor. (Credit: Kim Rose via Storyful)

Footage captured by a bystander shows Taub immediately diving into the water and swimming out to reach them. In the video, he is able to guide both individuals safely back to shore.

What they're saying:

Westcliff University later praised Taub in a social media post, calling him a "coach, warrior, and now lifesaver." 

"Proud is an understatement," the university said on social media. 

The college added, "A true champion of character, Lucas has continuously given back to the community. From coaching young children, being an ambassador of surfing, leading @westcliffu_surf, and much more. Thank you Lucas for all you do and all you did in this crucial moment."