Seeking testimonials for Markus Groh, Jim Abernethy, Shear Water

by Eric Cheng Sunday, March 23rd, 2008

Attention all shark divers: certain individuals have already started mudslinging in the media. Instead of participating in any of that, we’d like to provide a place for positive words about all parties involved in February’s unfortunate shark bite accident in the Bahamas. If you have anything to say in support of Markus Groh (the diver who passed away), Jim Abernethy, the M/V Shear Water, or her crew, please leave a comment at the bottom of this message or contact us with your message.

This is a place to collect stories about Jim’s dedication to sharks. If you’ve got a cool story about how Jim or his crew made you love sharks or gave you the best shark dive of your life, please share it with us! We’re also interested in anecdotes about his operation and character. If you have a story about Markus Groh (whom I did not know), please share it here, as well.

Please only comment here if you’ve been out on the Shear Water or if you knew Markus personally. This is not the venue for sharing random speculation.

Also, please sign this petition in support of shark diving in the Bahamas. We will deliver it to the Bahamas Diving Association.

Note that you must be LOGGED IN to Wetpixel to post a comment here (it’s free—register here). If you do not have an account, you can just leave a message using our contact form, and we will post it here.

I went on a shark expedition onboard Shear Water in March 2006 with Jim Abernathy. Even if it was my first experience of that kind, I felt completely safe thanks to Jim and his team. That was an unforgettable experience and I would sign again anytime if it is with Jim. Emile Mabita (Belgium) http://www.netvibes.com/adjustablebabysling
Posted by PAckerAck on 2009-05-18 16:42:09 in an ever shrinking world,leaving little room for wildlife or the oppertunity to interact and bear withness to the magisty of the natural world ,there are a few guiding lights leading the way.jim Abernethy and shearwater are two.without kindred spirits like jim and the people who travel with him taking pictures and bearing withness to the ocean and all its ditizens,sharks,whales,dolphins,turtles and all creatures great and small what chance have they got.I did not know Markus but i think that he is one of those great spirits. tim gleeson,Dublin.Ireland
Posted by tim gleeson on 2008-04-06 17:27:10 I am saddened to note that an editorial news article in the British magazine "Diver", which is not to be confused with the magazine "Dive", takes a negative stance and implies support for banning baited shark diving without cages in the Bahamas. It does not report any support for Jim and Shear Water. Tim
Posted by tdpriest on 2008-04-01 03:41:16 I have 20 years of experience as a professional divemaster and marine photographer, working in a wide variety of topside and underwater situations with both recreational divers and professionals. I've worked in the water with many different animals which are considered by the general public to be "dangerous", from the largest marine mammals to various species of predatory sharks. At all times in these efforts safety -- mine and those I am working with -- and the welfare of the animals are the two primary concerns. It cannot be overemphasized that these two concerns -- safety and animal welfare -- have guided my activities, for without them both my career as a marine photographer and the animals I document are both jeopardized. I have worked with Jim Abernethy in the Bahamas, focusing on tiger, bull, and reef sharks. I paid close attention to the methods and safety precautions that he and his crew employed, and felt confident throughout my time with him that our efforts were quite safe, both for ourselves and for our shark subjects. I have every intention of returning to join Jim Abernethy again in the future, to document the sharks of the Bahamas with my cameras in the same safe and thoughtful manner that he has demonstrated in the past. He has my every confidence. Phil Colla, Carlsbad, CA, USA www.oceanlight.com
Posted by Phil Colla on 2008-03-29 13:28:45 I wish I could say something elegant, simple and profound enabling people to understand how important it is to the future of marine life to stop believing the sensationalism which has taken place because of this event and events similar. Irrational fears are powerful and can only be defeated by knowledge and understanding. Jim Abernethy is easily the most enthusiastic person – about life, nature and animal behavior – I have ever known. He truly touches everyone he meets and inspires them to love all animals without judgment, but not without caution. There will never be enough people in the world like Jim. This incident might cripple Jim’s ability to share his wonderful gifts with people from around the world, and be detrimental to the education of so many. I did not know Mr. Groh, but imagine, like myself and so many others who dive with JASA, he knew his safety was always considered first and does not consider any person, practice or animal at fault. I know the crew are capable and loving people. Please make the misconception and the ulterior motives of other organizations threatening the JASA operations stop. Meghan Marie Walter
Posted by RLinden on 2008-03-26 22:29:03 I would like to join the many voices and add my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Marcus Groh. Though most of us never knew Mr. Groh personally, I believe that we recognize in him a kindred spirit, a bond that comes through shared interest and shared experience. I only hope that his tragic death teaches us the right lessons. My friendship with Jim Abernethy began in 1997, when he invited me to join him in a fledgling grass roots organization named “Shark Huggers.” I had never met anyone more enthusiastic about diving, or more joyful about simply being on or under the sea. Jim had passion. Already widely popular as a boat captain and dive guide, Jim was still new at operating his own charter business. That summer, on a perfect Florida day in the middle of June, Jim gathered a few friends and motored offshore to attempt his first formal shark dive. But nothing went as hoped: the chumsicle melted too quickly, fish parts scattered along the reef, divers dispersed with the current, and no sharks appeared. The only things that held steady were Jim’s enthusiasm and resolve. From that inauspicious beginning, Jim Abernethy has developed – through hard work and occasional plain luck – the most sought-after shark diving experiences anywhere. With his purchase of the Shear Water live-aboard came a wealth of local knowledge about several shark hotspots in the northern Bahamas. And Jim took full advantage, continuing to explore and gradually build a world-class shark diving operation. His charters have attracted myriad photographers, the world’s top filmmakers, and shark enthusiasts from all over the globe. On all his expeditions, diver safety has been the first priority. I participated in some of those early Bahamas expeditions, a time when the potential consequences of diving in open ocean with species considered dangerous to man were still unknown. It became obvious early on that the risks of diving with tiger sharks and hammerheads had been greatly exaggerated, a throwback to JAWS-era thinking. After some of our encounters, we were giddy with joy, as if our minds had just been opened to some secret knowledge. Of all the Bahamas shark sites I have visited – whether with Jim or with other operators – the most aggressive, in-your-face sharks have been the Caribbean reef sharks. Where reef sharks congregate, other species are absent or soon driven away. On the other hand, the so-called bad boys are cautious, deliberate … they move with a stately grace and purpose that accounts for a large part of their charisma. Jim has long been a strong ocean advocate and conservationist. His history includes providing educational underwater footage to regional television stations, working with sea turtle rescue groups, and teaching divers and all who might listen about the wonders of sharks. He recently began work on a series of children’s books with educational marine themes. As a dedicated pro-shark advocate, he has turned down high profile film teams who wanted to portray sharks in an unscientific, inappropriately negative manner. Success brings enemies. Tragedy brings opportunists. Those who now vilify Jim do so out of hubris or jealousy … or a sadly outdated view of sharks. Virtually all who know Jim and have traveled on his shark expeditions support him. Those who now attack Jim threaten not only his reputation and his livelihood but also threaten the freedom of choice we his supporters wish to preserve. Maris Kazmers SharkSong Photography
Posted by stargazer on 2008-03-26 14:46:34 As a former supporter and 17 year member of the BDA, I want to acknowledge their past insight and integrity over the years by being the global pioneers in shark conservation and education! It is imperative now at this critical time that the BDA does not lose sight of the bigger picture in shark conservation, awareness and tourism by imposing a knee-jerk decision on an operator in the Bahamas who has an exemplary safety record and who has enhanced the awareness of the plight of sharks globally as well as supported the Bahamian country as a whole! Continue to be wise in your decisions as you have always displayed that same wisdom in the past when pertaining to the sensitive issue of shark encounters. The world is watching..... Gary Adkison, via web Coconut Creek, FL, USA
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-25 00:15:05 We just released a new documentary called, "Sharks: Knights of the Sea" We spent more than two weeks on the Shear Water filming it - and it's a tribute to Jim and the crew. It's also a tribute to sharks - and why it's so critical we protect them. The DVD is available now - and mini segments will soon be available on iTunes. George C. Schellenger Executive Producer Status Productions www.captainjon.com
Posted by SpaceShark on 2008-03-24 08:46:46 The news of a fatal accident has had a big impact on us. We were on a trip with Jim and his crew right before it happened. We were very shocked. Unfortunately we are not informed about the circumstances, therefore we can only assume the diver was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Jim is a great motivator. We were impressed from day one with his knowledge of nature and with his care for safety, not only with the longest briefing ever, but also with his constant care for the divers in as well as out of the water. His love and respect for all animals is obvious. He made us do things we did not think we were capable of. He gave us a better understanding of the sharks and their behaviour: they are intelligent survivors. Our respect for the sharks has only grown during the week. We hope this very unfortunate accident will not change Jim's work with the sharks, as it is very important for their future. Marion Haarsma and Angelika Honsbeek, The Netherlands www.onderwaterfilm.tk www.angelikahonsbeek.com
Posted by honsbeek on 2008-03-24 08:26:25 My sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of Markus Groh! Diving accidents of any kind are tragic, but somehow when they involve sharks they always cause a far greater public reaction than any other... an unfortunate legacy of "JAWS" that persists today despite the efforts of so many dedicated researchers, journalists, photographers and filmmakers to dispel the man-eater myth. I had the wonderful privilege of diving with Jim and the crew of the Shearwater a couple of years ago... and despite having done a lot of diving with sharks over the years, I would have to echo the sentiments of several people here who said that they had learned more about the nature of sharks in a week with Jim than they did from all their previous shark experiences. Jim and his crew are highly professional, and his deep passion for sharks is contagious! Because the sharks are not actually fed but are instead simply drawn in by the scent of the bate in the crates... they are actually less excited and easier to work with than they are when they are fed. None the less... unfortunate accidents can happen no matter what activity you take part in... even in our daily lives. A good friend to many of us in the British Columbia diving community died tragically in a head on collision only a few days before Markus died... yet of course there are no newspaper editorials saying that we should ban driving. In reading over the comments and testimonials of the many people on this list I am struck by the fact that this group of people includes an amazingly high percentage of the worlds best and most highly regarded underwater photographers and filmmakers... something that the average person reading these testimonials may not realize. Collectively these highly regarded professionals have contributed more to educating the public about the importance of protecting our worlds oceans and the creatures that dwell within them... than perhaps any other group of people on the planet. Sharks and other marine life are disappearing from the worlds oceans at an alarming rate... and we need people like Jim to show us the beauty of the few remaining "wild places" while they still exist! Dale Sanders _____________________ Dale Sanders Photography Website: www.dalesanders.info Blog: www.daleisanders.blogspot.com -----------------------------
Posted by dsanders on 2008-03-23 13:33:35 We are marine biologists who have known and worked with Jim Abernethy for more than 8 years. Several things stand out when we are asked to describe Jim and his trips to our colleagues and students. These are great professionalism, enthusiasm for what he does, an abundance of knowledge about the natural history of marine animals, an eye that can capture their beauty on film and video, care to detail, and quality. Jim combines these traits in his work to promote knowledge, curiosity, and environmental awareness on many levels. Jim’s passion for what he has seen as a diver and boater is shared through his enthusiasm, his photography and his willingness to provide opportunities for his colleagues and clients to experience the world he loves. We scientists, in particular, appreciate his willingness to help us in our projects by providing boat time, his considerable talents as a photographer, and his knowledge of where and when to best to find the critters we want to see in settings appropriate for our studies. What is clear from our experiences is that he knows the underwater world well and has great respect for both its beauty and its uncertainty. Thus, the loss of a life on one of his excursions is a double tragedy: for the gentleman’s family and friends, as well as for Jim Abernethy who over so many years has provided his customers with magnificent experiences in a marine setting. Such enthusiasm for marine life and the underwater world from such a professional in the business should remain as a resource so that we all to continue to learn and find what we seek. Jeanette Wyneken and Mike Salmon
Posted by cturtler on 2008-03-21 21:18:46 My deepest sympathies go to the family of Marcus Groh. His death was a great loss. My sympathies are also with the large sharks of our world oceans. We are losing them also. We need them for the health of the oceans, for the fish and for the coral. Jimmy Abernethy helps these sharks. I have participated in three Shearwater shark trips with Jimmy Abernethy. After 40 years of shark biology, and 38 years in and out of shark cages, the JASA Shearwater trips were the most awesome encounters with sharks I have ever had! Jimmy has brought a very special experience, to not only filmmakers and shark biologists but to the general diving public. In my opinion, he has done it safely and professionally. On my trips, his JASA crew was experienced, well trained in dive safety and in the ‘ways of the sharks’. Even though we were ‘old hands’ on a National Geographic shoot were all cautioned by Jimmy and his crew about the special circumstances and techniques of diving with large tiger, lemon and hammerhead sharks. Sharks were not fed, but rather coaxed with crated bait. Divers were constantly watched, protected with billies and accounted for. I would not hesitate to dive with Jimmy again. The ocean is wilderness. JASA shark trips ARE a walk on the “wild side”. Humans used to live on the wild side and should be allowed to visit it if they wish. Legislation should not stop them. Jimmy Abernethy is the best kind of guide for such a trip. In addition to the above mentioned professionalism; he is enthusiastic and a knowledgeable ambassador for a threatened order of animals. The oceanic whitetip, subject of one of our trips, has been reduced 99% in the world’s oceans. Other shark species are following. Jim Abernethy is making us aware verbally and by showing us; with the help of his guest’s great skills with photography and with words, what we are losing. Thank you Jimmy! It is my sincere hope that you continue your shark adventures. Wes Pratt – Shark Biologist
Posted by WesPratt on 2008-03-20 10:34:22 Hearing about what happened to Markus Groh was a shock, and my condolences go out to his family and friends. But Markus, like thousands before him, including myself, freely choose to partake in activities that involve diving with sharks, and the risk that goes with it. For most divers, the best, and sometimes the only opportunity to see a shark is to go out with an operation that sets baits in the water to attract them. Typically sharks don’t want anything to do with scuba divers, for a host of reasons, mostly because we are big noisy creatures. Hence, we need to have attractants - specifically food, or the scent of food, to make it happen. Opponents of shark diving activities like to assert it is wrong, stating that the exercise is modifying the natural behavior of the animal. Well, in that case we have been modifying their behavior since the day man cast his first net into the sea to catch a fish, and we have been doing a fine job in altering the balance of our oceans ever since. The majority of marine biologists will tell you, most marine predators, especially sharks, are opportunists, constantly seeking their food source - whatever, wherever it may be. The other assertion is that diving with sharks is not safe. Lets get real. People by nature are risk takers, be it scaling the vertical face of a mountain or playing high stakes poker. Just like any sport, scuba diving has its risks, and in their underwater pursuits, divers, on occasion, experience unfortunate accidents. While cave diving, breathhold diving, even deep wreck diving have certainly experienced more fatalities than anyone wants to count, recreational scuba has also had its share. Even in the most sublime of destinations like the Cayman Islands, there are a couple recorded cases of divers doing one-way wall dives. Yet, is anyone pushing a stop to wall diving? As much as an operation attempts to oversee the activities of its clientele, the responsibility lies with the diver to understand the risks before he/she makes the decision to take it. Be it on a Bahamas shark dive with Jim Abernathy’s Dive Adventures or any other operation, we make our choices. Banning shark diving in the Bahamas makes no sense and would simply incite a trend that we may not want to see happen within the diving community. So what is really considered safe? Walt Stearns Editor-in-Chief www.Underwaterjournal.com
Posted by Walt Stearns on 2008-03-19 20:15:15 An open letter to the Bahamian Government, DEMA, and fellow divers: I would like to join others and express my sincere condolences to the Groh family. This tragedy has me hugging my friends and family, evaluating my personal decisions, and frowning at the US diving industry leadership. Personally as divers, climbers, skiers, rafters, pilots, etc. we have to make a personal decision on the amount of risk we are willing to take in pursuit of adventure. All activities have inherent risk, but statistics clearly show a sedentary life around the house or driving a car will get you first. I firmly believe that most active or adventurous people critically evaluate operators, get educated on their hobby, and make educated decisions. We do (and should continue to be able to) hire a professional guide with local knowledge to help us up that mountain, down that river or guide us on a unique diving adventure... at our own risk. These expert guides need an income to remain experts and our lives would be unbearably dull without them. I lead over 100 days of dive travel annually and have worked with hundreds of dive industry professionals. I have led six groups of photographers aboard the Shearwater over the last four years. On each expedition, Jim Abernethy gave a detailed dive safety briefing complete with the very unique techniques of diving with sharks. From day one of my first trip, I was thoroughly impressed with the professionalism and attention to detail by all members of the Shearwater crew. Further, I was impressed with Abernethy's active conservation efforts and natural history knowledge of sharks. Based on my personal experiences, his operation is not only professionally run and safe, but I believe his efforts have made a significant positive impact on the world wide conservation of sharks and to the diving industry of the Bahamas through guest education and first hand experience. Sharks and the activity of "shark diving" are both poorly understood by the vast majority of media consumers. The actual safety statistics are much too boring for print. Since bears and wolfs have essentially joined the dinosaurs, it's probably natural that we humans hold up the shark as the last modern day predator. Even with all the shark diving activity occurring today, the fact remains that you're still more likely to be killed by lightning than even be threatened by a shark. I'm willing to wager that archeology digs of exstinct dinosaurs bones have actually claimed more lives than on going "shark diving" activities. The facts seem to show that people want to view sharks up close in the wild, this activity is actually very safe, and shark viewers are the best shark conservation advocates. The skiing industry is lucky that deaths on the slopes have much less world media buzz than "shark attacks." Unfortunately, the diving industry seems to be stuck in puberty for the last 30 years. In this last media blitz the diving industry lost a critical opportunity to educate the world on the plight of sharks worldwide, share the facts on how safe diving (even shark diving) really is compared to other sports, and explain why shark dives in the Bahamas are one of the seven wonders of the diving world. I hope the Bahamian government will examine the facts, protect their unique shark populations based on science, and continue to allow cage-less shark diving in their offshore regions. I hope the US diving industry will also examine the data, support the safety record of the Shearwater, and call on experts such as Jim Abernethy to educate divers and fellow operators on the safe diving practices with sharks. I believe the welfare of sharks and the diving industry in general have much to loose with such a poorly executed knee jerk reaction to this incident. I fear that sharks may soon be killed off through ignorance or through hyper activity by the US legal industry. Sincerely, Berkley White Owner, Backscatter Underwater Video & Photo (via web)
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-19 17:27:41 I have been baiting mako and blue sharks off the southern California coast for over 20 years. This has been for personal stock and for professional film crews. Based on this background, I feel I can judge a shark filming/baiting operation with some depth of experience. I have been involved directly with Jim Abernethy through the filming of IMAX Deep Sea 3D. Jim handled all the shark baiting and logistics for us on that particular Bahamas shoot. I was, and remain, completely impressed with the professionalism and the will and determination for safety exhibited by Jim. His enthusiasm for the animals is infectuous and unparalled. As we have sadly seen, sharks need all the positive attention and publicity they can get these days....and no one does this better than Jim. I am saddened by the death of Markus Groh, however, I would not blink twice if my 19-year old daughter asked me if she could dive sharks with Jim. The answer would be a resounding YES!! Richard Herrmann Richard Herrmann Photography via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-19 17:27:10 Every death is in itself a tragedy, Markus Groh no less so. My thoughts go out to Markus and his family. Those of us who engage in diving with sharks accept that there is an add risk to doing this. I think that Markus knew this and accepted the risk. I have been diving with and filmed sharks for the past 12 years. I have been on 3 cageless shark diving trips with Jim filming for IMAX and the BBC. I have still to come across a better shark guide than Jim. He runs as safe a trip as possible, when diving with sharks. He gives a detailed briefing before the dive, he is very aware of the divers in the water and corrects improper behavior as soon as it is spotted. He is very knowledgeable about the animals and quickly spots unusual behavior. Jim is the best there is. When you are diving with sharks, Jim is the guy you want next to you in the water. Peter Kragh, via web
Posted by pkdk on 2008-03-19 13:13:33 The loss of a loved one is inconsolable, and Mr. Groh's death is tragic. I grieve for his family and loved ones. But I also grieve for the sharks .... and our oceans. Jim Abernethy is an advocate for the sharks and our oceans. His passion for the creatures who inhabit the ocean realm – which few people actually venture into – is beyond question, whether it be a seahorse on a muck dive or a tiger shark in the ocean blue. I take issue with those who say that free diving with sharks is simply an adrenaline rush, although I understand that point of view. To me it is a privilege, a privilege that the sharks might accept us "on common ground." One of the most memorable days of my life was free diving with hammerhead and tiger sharks in peace and awe alongside Jim. We re-entered the water, time after time, simply to view these creatures so different than ourselves. That they accepted us in their environment was truly a gift. It is not easy to be a champion for the oceans, but Jim Abernethy truly is such as champion. I have known Jim for many years. Whether doing a drift dive off the south Florida coast or embarking on shark dives in the Bahamas, his concern for the safety of his clients is consummate. His work should continue. To reiterate a much-quoted thought: we only protect and understand those things that we love, and perhaps know a little about. Jim has spent his entire professional career toward that protection and understanding of sharks. Marilyn Kazmers
Posted by sallymanta on 2008-03-18 23:01:25 I did not know Mr. Groh, bit join the many giving my condolences to his family. Have been diving with Jasa for 4 years now in both Palm Beach and the Bahammas on the Shear Water I have been able to experience the greatest that the ocean has to offer. Jim is a charasmatic individual that will inspire you on every dive, always leaving you wanting more. It is this passion that has led Jim to create one of the best diving experiences in the World. One of the hallmarks of an Abernethy trip is that the FIRST PRIORITY is safty. It is this ethic that has given JASA one of the best safty records in the business. Few people in the world have had more time in the water with sharks than Jim. Using the knowledge gained he has developed a innovative way in which to dive with sharks in the absence of a cage that is safe and non-threatening. Once in the water I never felt threatened or in danger. Jim and his crew constantly assess the situation both above and below the water to ensure the lowest level of risk possible for the guests. It is through an encounter like Jims that one can come to appreciate that sharks are not the ruthless predetors but graceful majestic creatures. Without people like Jim the fate of sharks and other threatened animals are surely sealed. I fully support Jim and the team at JASA. I have a great respect for the crew and what they do. Robert Linden lindenro@msu.edu
Posted by RLinden on 2008-03-18 20:40:29 To Whom It May Concern: I would like to express my sympathy for the deceased and his family in this tragic accident. I would also like to attest to Jim Abernethy’s professionalism as a dive operator. I have dove with Jim on the Shearwater for three trips now; twice as a trip leader, and once as a member of a private group that chartered him and his boat for our personal filming. The reason I have led groups of divers on Jim’s operation, and later came by myself for the privilege of spending more time with his operation, is because Jim offers an underwater experience with sharks that is unrivalled. I have led groups on Jim’s operation because his operation is as safe as any other operation when it comes to attracting sharks close enough to photograph. His safety briefings and care for divers’ safety on all three trips were outstanding. Jim Abernethy is a rare combination of dive operator that is showing divers different species of sharks in a natural setting. The numerous photographers and filmmakers who take images of these subjects are educating the public with their images, showing the beauty of these animals and their underwater environment. This is as important a mission as protecting coral reefs or sea turtles – which are other activities that Jim is involved in. All of us have been drawn to Jim and his operation repeatedly because of his stellar safety record, his high level of professionalism, and his knowledge of shark behavior. This accident could have occurred at any shark diving venue – or any diving location even without “shark diving” going on. Any person who dives in the ocean understands that there are numerous risks involved. I personally feel safer diving with Jim Abernethy and his operation than I do crossing the street here in California or driving on the freeway here in Northern California. People are bitten by sharks while surfing off the coast here, and they still do it. More people are killed by pit bulls in a week than are bitten by sharks in a year; yet pit bulls have not been outlawed here in California yet. There’s great debate in whether “shark feeds” should even be allowed, or if divers should even be allowed to dive with sharks. I am always puzzled by this thinking, because taking customers to “risky” endeavors like climbing mountains, grizzly bear hangouts, and other activities that bring people close to nature is widely accepted. Many folks have died trying to climb Mt. Everest, but the government there doesn’t stop people from trying to climb the mountain. Everyone who goes on Jim's trips, or any shark feed, knows the risks and signs the waivers. The problem is our American society is so litigious and our sensationalistic media needs something to sell newspapers. Mountain climbing is an accepted activity so climbing Mt. Everest is seen as an achievement. Why should diving with sharks be any different? The risks are known and laid out in all cases. I agree with James Wiseman, who states above, “I am one who truly believes “We protect what we love” and that the more people that get to interact with sharks in their “home” the better. Seeing sharks moving slowly and non-threateningly in their natural environment is what Jim’s trips are all about - and I think they truly increase awareness about these majestic creatures. “I’m happy that the Bahamas has a tradition of fostering diving with sharks, and I hope that it continues into the future.” Norbert Wu Norbert Wu Productions Pacific Grove, CA 93950 USA Phone 831-375-4448 www.norbertwu.com Professional Underwater Photographer, Author, and Filmmaker author and photographer of seventeen books on wildlife and photography and the originator and photographer for several children’s book series on the oceans. Recipient of a Pew Marine Conservation Fellowship – the world's most prestigious award in ocean conservation and outreach. named "Outstanding Photographer of the Year" for 2004 by the North American Nature Photographers Association (NANPA), the highest honor an American nature photographer can be given by his peers. awarded the Antarctica Service Medal of the United States of America "for his contributions to exploration and science in the U.S. Antarctic Program."
Posted by photoagent101 on 2008-03-18 13:25:45 I would first like to express my condolences to Mr. Groh’s family and friends. It was a very sad and unfortunate accident. There are no perfect words to share at the loss of a loved one, I only hope that the thoughts and prayers from an entire diving community will help ease their difficult time. I want to let them know that they remain in my prayers. Every summer for the past 5 years I have been going to the Bahamas aboard the ShearWater to photograph sharks. Jimmy and his crew have been wonderful hosts and great ambassadors to the Bahamian waters. They have become great friends and have given me the experience of a lifetime. From my first trip on the boat, Jim and his crew’s priority has been, and continues to be, the safety of his guests in conjunction with the safety of the sharks. He takes great effort in making the divers feel comfortable with the procedures. His briefings are detailed and thorough to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all. I think we realize the level of risk we take each time we dive with these animals, but then each time we dive we take a risk. Unfortunately that’s part of life and many other extreme sports have much higher risks. I feel with the knowledge and safety precautions that the ShearWater has taken, my level of risk in the water with these animals is far lower than many other extreme sports that are completely unsupervised. Jimmy loves these animals and wants to share that with others. His passion is contagious and I must say that I, as well as others, have caught it. I am grateful for my experiences aboard the ShearWater and share those experiences, along with my images, with non-divers in hopes of supporting sharks worldwide. I only wish the media would take the time to report the facts, stop sensationalizing and see where the real focus should be. I’ll dive with you anytime Jimmy! I can’t thank you enough for sharing your knowledge of these animals and I look forward to my next trip with you and the crew. My Best, Kelly Bracken, Redondo Beach, CA President, Los Angeles Underwater Photographic Society
Posted by klrbee on 2008-03-18 01:51:00 First, although I did not know the diver, I would like to send my deepest regrets and sympathy to his family. I have known Jim Abernethy for over 20 years. Several of those years were spent working for Jim as a dive master. His love for sharks and shark experiences dates back to before I met him, but indeed we spent many hours together in the waters of the Bahamas while observing and filming sharks. We never had a bad experience and the utmost of caution was used and conveyed by Jim always. I have had many experiences with him and groups together with shark dives. He made explicit briefings before each dive. He made sure everyone was ready personally to enjoy their encounter with the sharks. He continuously monitored the sharks and everyone in the group for safety. I personally have hours upon hours of film, while observing sharks and their habits underwater. Jim filmed each one of those dives and not only were they safe dives, Jim made them feel even safer. His underwater skills are unmatched, and he trained all of his employees and support teams with the same safety skills and caution that he used. His briefings are in great detail and he and his crew personally make contact with each diver before entering the water. I am deeply saddened by the event but I have great admiration for Jim Abernathy and all of his employees both underwater along with the management staff above water which make his operations the best in southeast Florida and the throughout the Bahamas. Sincerely, Scott Thompson, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-17 23:42:24 I'd like to add my condolences as well to Mr. Groh's family after this tragic accident. I've made two trips on Jim Abernethy's ShearWater: one in 2005 and another in 2006. The first thing that happened when we left the dock was that Jim and his crew gave us a detailed safety briefing about what we could expect, what hazards to avoid, and how we should behave in the water, in order to minimize any risk. I work in the offshore construction business on some dangerous projects and I was impressed by Jim's "HAZID" and "HAZOP" process. I am one who truly believes "We protect what we love" and that the more people that get to interact with sharks in their "home" the better. Seeing sharks moving slowly and non-threateningly in their natural environment is what Jim's trips are all about - and I think they truly increase awareness about these majestic creatures. I'm happy that the Bahamas has a tradition of fostering diving with sharks, and I hope that it continues into the future. Regards, James Wiseman
Posted by James Wiseman on 2008-03-17 13:26:57 First and foremost I wish to express my sincere condolences to the family of Markus Groh. This was a tragic accident. I also wish to express my concerns and thoughts for Jim Abernethy, the JASA Crew and all others that were on the trip. I have known Jim Abernethy for over 10 years and have been on numerous diving trips with JASA in the Palm Beaches and also in the Bahamas. I did a Tiger Shark Dive trip with Jim last summer and safety was a number one priority. Jim repeats the safety steps over and over so the message is clear. His whole organization is a group of serious dedicated professionals. I have been diving all over the world for 36+ years and have found Jim Abernethy to be “Hands Down” to be the BEST and MOST PROFESSIONAL OPERATOR in the Diving Business. I have been on at least 50 Shark Dives and compared to Jim’s operation they are all amateurs. I am extremely disappointed and disgusted in Neal Watson’s reaction and comments. I met Neal in the Walkers Cay Dive Shop and went on a baited shark dive with little to no briefing. I am also disappointed in the national/local press and television in that they made this tragic accident such a major event just to sell advertising. Where were these groups when Jim Abernethy has done so much work for National Geographic, The Discovery Channel and Shark Week? My “Hats Off” to these cable channels for educating the world. Jim Loves the ocean and is one of the biggest protectors of it! I was fortunate enough to be able to go on two trips with JASA where we were able to release Green, Hawksbill and Leather Back Turtles back into the wild after they had grown big enough to have a higher survival rate. This was something very special BUT of course did not make the news because it was “Warm and Fuzzy” and NOT PURE SENSATIONALISM! I encourage everyone to go back and REVIEW AGAIN comment 87 as it is right on point! I am so sorry this whole incident occurred but riding a motorcycle, driving a car, parachute jumping, snow skiing are also dangerous sports that can also result in a tragedy. I am proud and honored to know Jim Abernethy and I am a better and more informed person as a result. I would NOT hesitate for a second in getting back into the water with Jim and the JASA Team. I will be scheduling a trip soon. He has enriched so many people’s lives and regardless of what one might think he is really a sensitive man with a heart of gold! J. Scott Morrison, via web Newport Coast, California
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-16 23:08:02 I also was one of the fortunate people to join Jim and his crew on their sharkexpedition. For me this was my best trip ever! Jim is always paying attention to all the divers and nows all about every kind of sharks. His love for the marinelife is amazing and that makes him special and a joy to dive with! Karin Brussaard, The Netherlands
Posted by kaarlin on 2008-03-15 18:48:07 Since a couple of years I have been fortunate enough to have joined Jim Abernethy and his crew on the Shearwater to the Bahamas on several occasions. I have been diving around the world for many years - but I have never experiencede such immensely thorough safety breefings - as the ones Jim give in the beginning of every trip. No stone is left unturned. I have seen Jim send up divers during diving when they haven´t complied in full with the safety rules. Afterwards the safetyrules have been gone through all over again. I can from personal experience assure that Jim and his cunning crew ALWAYS put safety first - ALWAYS. 3 sharks are estimated to be killed every second. I sincerely hope that myself and others who see the beauty in these magnificent creatures - the sharks - will be able to go onboard the Shearwater with Jim Abernethy at the helm to the Bahamas - and there once again be mesmerized by there presence. Mr Mikael Hadell, Sweden, liquidspace films (via web)
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-12 22:37:02 I support and encourage Jim Abernathy to strive to continue to educate the public that seem to hold a view that swimming with sharkes (and other cetaceans) under any circumstance is not acceptable, arguing that interactions between people and whales is unnatural and distubs them. While I understand the public's concerns and motivation, I disagree. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to make several Shearwater trips with grandchildren and realize that we can engage in this activity following guidelines that are set out to protect both sharks and people. This was an unfortunate accident for Abernathy's standard operations allows divers to interact with with sharks and other cataceans and I would be hard pressed to think of a more effective way to motivate people to protect our animals in the sea. Elizabeth Keith, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-12 22:36:23 I was so sorry to hear about the death of Markus Groh. While there is no doubt that hanging out with large carnivores entails some risk, I believe there is no one that understands how to keep the risks of shark diving to a minimum more than Jim Abernathy. (Of course, there is a greater chance of being killed or dismembered on the drive to the airport to fly to Florida than during the shark dives themselves.) Jim has done more for shark conservation than anyone else in the dive industry, introducing thousands of people to these amazing predators and acting as a public relations person for selachians.

I was sad to see opportunists piling on Jim and his operation. I saw one of his competitors on CNN suggesting that dive operators that work with “more dangerous” species (tigers, bull sharks) should have to use a shark cage. This dive operator takes people on shark feeds where they attract Caribbean reef sharks – apparently he is not aware that Carcharhinus perezi has bitten more divers during shark feeds than any of the species he lists as being so deadly.

I hope that Jim is able to continue his unique operation and that people will see that others are using the death of Mr. Groh as an opportunity to increase their own revenue.

Scott Michael biologist/author
Posted by wobbiebait on 2008-03-12 09:06:55

It is wonderful to read the foregoing testimonials supporting all the parties involved, including the family of Markus Groh, Jim Abernethy, all the other passengers on board and the JASA crew. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of these people as they attempt to recover from this tragic loss. No matter what anyone thinks about the issues involved in this tragedy; every reasonable and compassionate person in world, should sympathize with the unexpected loss of a loved one. I have personally known Jim Abernethy and most of his staff for almost 10 years. Jim's love of his fellow diver and of the underwater world is endless and infectious! This accident will impact Jimmy more than any of us will ever comprehend. I am a recreational diver (not a professional photographer) and I have been on many Shear Water charters over the years including shark dives. The experiences that I have had on Shear Water are simply amazing!. They can not possibly be appreciated or understood by someone who has not shared in a similar experience. I could write at length about these types of dives and about the incredible experience and knowledge of Jim Abernethy; however, in the interest of brevity, I will specifically adopt by reference the well expressed comments made above by David Haas #27, Howard Hall #85, Doug Seifert #96, and the translation by Nadine Umbscheiden at #130. There's no doubt this loss is hard to deal with and there will be questions, "what ifs", hurts, doubts and maybe even regrets; however, at the end of the day, I'm hopeful that calm, rational, educated minds will prevail and everyone will eventually come to understand this really was an unfortunate "accident". My support and prayers remain with the family of Markus Groh and also with Jimmy Abernethy and his crew!
Posted by hkeith on 2008-03-10 19:08:18 This is the translation of the article above , written by my husband Michael Umbscheiden. His statement is expressing also my opinion. As well, I like to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Markus Groh. The turmoil and the statements in the german, austrien and as well in the american media and internet are partly shaped by ignorance, stupidity and impertinence. We divers, above all we shark divers, are a community where we know and understand each other very well. I did not know Markus personally, but I believe he would agree with the following sentenses. Until now my husband and I have been on three different trips with Jim Abernethy and we know the dive site well where the tragic accident occurred. I, and I think all the others as well, who have ever been on one of Jim`s trips, are conscious of the in my opinion relatively little, but always existing risk. We are accepting this risk like other people do in other type of sports, when we are entering the water. Jim can`t exempt us from this part of risk . His job is to create the surrounding conditions for these trips and to minimize additional risks. But he can`t scale down the risks to zero. These surrounding conditions, which are also viewable in these impressing statements above, is Jim creating with a unique preciseness and enthusiasm while never upcoming habit. I think, we all know, that we also could have an accident while we are diving with sharks, but of course generally during diving, what itself is much more dangerous in my opinion. This accident could have happened also to us. And of course it can happen again. But this should not be the reason to challenge these undertakings. Otherwise we have to challenge a lot of other things. My husband and I have been diving at the most “shark places” on the world, with nearly every kind of shark you can meet during diving. With and without chumming. Many operators made a good job, sometimes very good and also some have been very bad. Nobody embodied more professionalism, knowledge, love and also respect for sharks than Jim Abernethy does. It´s tragic, that this accident happened just on one of his trips. I hope, that Jim although is continueing his trips and also is allowed to continue. Everybody, who knows Jim, knows how miserable he must feel now. I hope, that the mourning of the family and friends doen`t turn into angriness against Jim or sharks. I believe, Markus was on the wrong place at the wrong time. And we all are very sad about what happened. Nadine Umbscheiden, Munich
Posted by Nadine on 2008-03-10 17:27:32 Meine Meinung spiegelt sich mit der meiner Frau, daher hat sie diesen Text auf Englisch übersetzt und unten wiedergegeben. Auch ich möchte der Familie und den Freunden von Markus Groh mein herzliches Beileid ausdrücken. Der Aufruhr und die Statements in deutschen, österreichischen und auch amerikanischen Medien und dem Internet sind zum Teil von einer Unwissenheit, Dummheit und auch Unverschämtheit geprägt. Wir Taucher, v.a. wir Haitaucher sind eine Gemeinschaft, in der wir uns untereinander sehr gut kennen und auch verstehen. Ich kannte Markus zwar nicht persönlich, aber glaube, dass er mir bei den nachfolgenden Sätzen zustimmen würde. Meine Frau und ich waren bis heute drei Mal mit Jim Abernethy auf verschiedenen Touren und kennen auch den Tauchplatz, an dem sich der tragische Unfall wohl ereignet hat, recht gut. Mir ist, und wie ich denke auch allen anderen, die mit Jim jemals unterwegs waren, das aus meiner Sicht relativ geringe, aber trotzdem immer vorhandene Risiko dieser Tauchgänge bewusst. Wie auch andere Sportler in vielen anderen Sportarten akzeptieren wir dieses Risiko, wenn wir ins Wasser gehen. Jim kann uns von diesem Restrisiko nicht befreien. Seine Aufgabe ist, die Rahmenbedingungen für solche Touren zu schaffen und zusätzliche Risikofaktoren zu minimieren. Aber auf null wird er die Risiken nie schrauben können. Diese Rahmenbedingungen, dies sieht man ja auch an den beeindruckenden Statements bis hierher, schafft Jim mit einer einzigartigen Genauigkeit und einem Enthusiasmus bei gleichzeitig niemals aufkommender Gewohnheit. Uns allen denke ich ist klar, das auch uns mal ein Unfall bei Haitauchgängen ereilen könnte, generell aber sowieso beim Tauchen, was für sich allein eine aus meiner Sicht viel größere Gefahr birgt. Auch uns hätte es passieren können. Und natürlich kann es wieder passieren. Aber das darf nicht der Grund sein, solche Unternehmungen in Frage zu stellen. Was wir sonst alles in Frage stellen müssten, brauche ich hier wohl nicht erklären. Meine Frau und ich sind an den meisten Haiplätzen dieser Welt getaucht, mit nahezu allen Haiarten, denen man als Taucher begegnen kann. Und das mit und ohne Anlocken. Viele Operater waren gut, manche sehr gut, einige wenige auch sehr schlecht. Die Professionalität, das Wissen, die Liebe und auch gleichzeitig den Respekt vor den Haien hat keiner der Operator so hervorragend in einer Person verkörpert wie Jim Abernethy. Dass ausgerechnet auf einer seiner Touren ein Unfall passiert ist tragisch. Ich hoffe, dass Jim trotzdem weiter macht und auch machen darf. Wie sehr auch Ihm der Unfall nahe geht, wissen alle, die Ihn kennen. Ich hoffe, dass die unendliche Trauer der Familie und Freunde von Markus nicht in Wut gegen Haie oder Jim wechselt. Ich denke, Markus war zur falschen Zeit am falschen Ort. Und wir alle sind sehr traurig über das, was passiert ist. Michael Umbscheiden, München
Posted by Nadine on 2008-03-10 17:26:14 Here is an editorial on the Markus Groh incident and on preserving shark diving: http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/editorials/0000120.shtml
Posted by Tom Demerly on 2008-03-10 15:15:26 I have known and been diving with Jimmy for fifteen years.My first ocean dive was on his charter at West Palm. I have not had the pleasure of diving his shark experience in the Bahamas but I have dove Shark Canyon in Palm Beach and I can attest that there were extensive dive briefings for those new to diving with sharks as well as for those who could say "Been there, done that". Knowing how he and his crews operate I can say I will continue to dive with JASA and will continue to whole-heartedly send friends and loved ones to dive with Jimmmy.
Posted by dennisjcox on 2008-03-09 15:39:03 I cannot even imagine the pain that Markus Groh’s family and friends must be feeling now. I’m terribly sorry for their loss. It may sound trite but I think they should take solace from the knowledge that Markus died doing something that he enjoyed very much. The Shear Water does not attract uncommitted divers who simply happen upon it – the clientèle tend to be those with a deep love of sharks and a desire to gain a deeper understanding of these wonderful animals in the wild. I have dived numerous times with Jim and the JASA crew along the coast of Florida and on the Shear Water in the Bahamas. I share all the views expressed by others here on the significant contribution that Jim and his JASA crew make to the elucidation and ultimately the protection of sharks. I also echo those who highlight the excellent safety regime that JASA maintain on all of their trips. I will never forget when, back in 2005, I joined an international bunch of inquiring wildlife photographers (many of whom have written above) on the Shear Water and enjoyed the most enjoyable diving trip of my life. I do not dive with sharks in search of any sort of “thrill” or because of the risks involved. I do so, despite of and in full knowledge of those risks. If I truly wanted to experience such a thrill, I would participate in a dangerous activity like rock climbing, white water canoeing or suchlike. I love wildlife and know that we have a fast-closing window of opportunity to see the great sharks of the ocean before the superstition and greed manifest in the shark fin soup and medicines trade kills them all. I have recently returned from a “shark diving” trip in Burma and was deeply saddened by the complete absence of requiem sharks in the area. The only evidence I could see of their existence was in the displays of drying shark fins on the roofs of passing sea gypsy boats. The terribly sad death of Markus Groh was an unfortunately and, I expect, completely unavoidable accident. Interacting with any large wild animal in their environment brings with it some risks. We engage in this activity knowing the risks and in the knowledge that we are diving with an operator who takes safety more seriously than any other I’ve dealt with. I will dive with Jim and his crew on the Shear Water when I next get the opportunity. Flann Horgan, London
Posted by flann on 2008-03-09 07:09:08 The trip I did with Jim Abernethy last year changed my life in terms on how I see nature and the planet we live in. I have always loved sharks and diving with Jim has been probably the best experience in my life. His respect and love for the animals and everything that surrounds them is amazing. I have encountered sharks many times while diving, and I have never felt more safe and secure than diving with Jim. Accidents happen and we are all grown ups to know that. I felt safer diving with Bulls Sharks and Tiger sharks than driving in the highway. Guillermo Gomez, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-09 03:05:15 Dear " shark divers".. Today we burried Markus in Vienna at 15:00 GMT+1. reading these comments about supporting further shark dives, I got really upset how humans (mostly Americans) deal with this situation... As a certified Dive Master i can only say: PLEASE leave this creatures alone...LOOK...but never feed.... It really does not matter how many people yet died...its just stupid, ignorant and a fatal "thrill"... Lieber Markus, Du hast Dich diesmal auf die falschen Menschen verlassen..ich denke an Dich und die Hinterbliebenen... Dein Detlef
Posted by doetti on 2008-03-07 20:32:19 As has been so eloquently stated in all of these wonderful testimonials, my every sympathy goes to the family and friends of Mr. Groh. I, like many, have known Jim Abernethy for many years, though not in relation particularly to sharks, but rather sea turtles, and would like to share with those reading these testimonials my take on Jim's commitment to marine conservation. I guess the best way to sum it up is that Jim has never said "no" to helping with sea turtle conservation in the State of Florida. Jim, can we take hatchlings to the weedline in the flying boat? Jim, can we do hawksbill research from the Deep O.? Jim, can you take leatherback researchers offshore? Jim, can we use a photo? Jim, can you help with my camera? Jim, can we a take a crew from "Jackass" out to film an episode of WildBoyz? He may have said 'yes' one too many times with that one, but the point remains, that guy is ALWAYS there to help whenever I or any other person I know needs his resources (which are vast)and/or expertise (which is impressive) to accomplish our goals in marine turtle conservation. He loves the animals, first and foremost, and many have benefitted from Jim's commitments. Jim is the one-in-a-million these animals need to bring change for their benefit, and we should applaud his efforts, turtles and sharks alike. "The integrity of men is to be measured by their conduct, not their professions" -- Junius Larry Wood, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-07 19:59:41 Like all the other posters shown, my immediate thoughts and sympathies are for the family of Herr Groh at this time. Having taken a trip with Jimmy a couple of years ago I can imagine the pain and turmoil that he and his crew are going through right now. I had wanted to take this trip for a few years and it exceeded all my expectations. This was primarily due to the attitude of Jimmy and his crew. My worry was that the trip would be about macho posturing with big sharks. However, the experience was just what I had hoped for - a carefully planned opportunity to dive safely with and appreciate these magnificent animals. You only had to be in Jimmy and Grey's company for seconds to appreciate two things, firstly how much the truly loved and respected these animals and how fundamental their safety rules were. These rules were simple and repeated constantly through the trip, however, tragically, accidents can still happen, despite the best planning. The trip with Jimmy was crewed excellently and the divers on boards were all of a similar mind to me. Through the trip I made friends with both Jimmy and Grey and also all the other divers, including Paul Krupella and Harry Kreigh who have also posted messages. The trip was and remains the highpoint of my diving life and I am so grateful to Jimmy and his crew for giving me the opportunity to see these animals in their natural environment without being encumbarred by a cage. I have booked a trip with Jimmy in December and hope that it will be run exactly the same as the last trip. I am a 44 year old family man, who is naturally cautious, however, I am also mature enough to assess the risks related to diving with sharks and there is no company or individual that I would feel safer doing it with. All the best to you Jim and look forward to seeing you in December. Hefin Griffiths Cheshire UK, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-07 19:59:23 Any time a diver dies in an accident it is a tragic loss of life, and this accident is certainly evidence of that. As divers, we accept risk each time we enter the ocean. The marine environment is an inherently unforgiving one and accidents can yield tragic results. We learn that in dive training. The most important take away from an accident like this is continued empathy for the family who suffered a serious loss and also maintaining the focus on safety while diving through education of divers. Restricting dive activities or placing limits on dive areas does not acheive this end and only limits the ability of the diver to learn about and understand their underwater environment. Even the safest of divers will occasionally suffer accidents. To limit the sport in any way because of this exposure to risk is to limit our capacity to learn, grow, understand our environment and become better, safer divers. I hope the diving community moves forward after this accident, not backward. Being able to continue the safe diving record established by Jim Abernethy would be an appropriate tribute to Mr. Markus Groh and his obvious sense of wonder with the underwater world.
Posted by Tom Demerly on 2008-03-07 15:56:02 First of all I want to express my simpathy to the the family and friends of Markus Groh. Also, I want to express my support and simpathy to Jim and the crew of the Shear Water. I have been on two trips on the Shear water and have another scheduled in a few months. In my experience there is no better crew with a greater passion for what they do or concern for the ocean and its life. It is unlikely you will find and operation that does a better, let alone equal, job of planning and prep. Every diver that walks on that boat is briefed with great care and closely montired in the water for safe behavior and respect for the situation they are entering. As far as diver safety goes, there are fundimental issues in the recreational dive industrey with poor and incomplete training that puts thousands of divers in the water every year that are not ready to handle even minor siuations under water. This seems a better focus for those who claim to be concerned about safety. As far as altering shark behavior goes, it seems over-fishing of food sources, pollution and finning are much more serious issues. I started diving 41 years ago and way back then, when most people seemed to think all sharks couldn't wait to eat them, you didn'nt need bait to see them on a fairly regular basis. In 1968 in the space of 3 dives I had a 10 foot great hammerhead and 12 foot tiger come with in 4 feet of me. Wish I had a D2X then. It wasn't until 36 years later, diving with Jim Abernethy that I saw either species alive again. Whether we like it or not people conserve what they feel a connection with. Seeing these animals as they really are and understanding they have far less taste for us than we do for them is the only way to kill the myths and encourage conservation. Any death is the ultimate tragedy (for any animal, human or otherwise). But eliminating activities that have the potential for a tragic accident doesn't seem to be an appropriate reaction. Let's let people make thier own choice about risk, as long as its leagal, and get on with the diving, education and conservation.
Posted by Deepgordo on 2008-03-07 10:37:41 Jim Abernathy is one of the most professional people I have met in the diving industry. His attention to safety issues with regards diving with sharks cannot be faulted. Before any diving was conducted from Jim's boat our dive team was given an intensive briefing informing us of what we can expect, the safety procedures in place and how to behave and not to behave while interacting with sharks. Two or three safety divers always accompanied us on our dives. We dived three or four times a day with tiger sharks and lemon sharks for four days and it was a life-changing experience. However, with over 30 years conducting shark dives and this being the first accident, Jim Abernathy's safety record speaks for itself. The incident with Mr. Marcus Groh was a tragic accident and my deepest sympathy goes out to Mr. Groh's family and friends. However, any reactions from authorities to this incident should be based on factual information as it would be another tragedy if emotional, knee-jerk reactions in response to the accident were allowed. ----------- Alison Kock Marine Biologist Save Our Seas Shark Centre
Posted by Alison Kock on 2008-03-07 04:11:28 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to express my support of Jim Abernathy Scuba Adventures, and the superb crew employed with them. I am a member of the Michigan State University SCUBA club and have been diving with JASA for several years during our spring break trip to Florida. On every single trip, JASA employees have gone to great lengths to ensure the safety of all divers on the boat, from making sure that the proper diving equipment is being used for each diver according to their experience level, to setting up buddies to ensure that less experience divers have guidance. And in each dive the crew is extremely through about the diving conditions, aquatic life we may encounter, proper procedures for returning to the boat and, of course, overall safe diving practices. Of any of the diving I've done, JASA has always placed the most emphasis on safe practices to create a fun and healthy dive experience for divers of any level. I fully support Shark diving in the Bahamas, and if I ever were to do a shark dive myself JASA is the first and only company I'd consider diving with. Sincerely, Jessica Williams-Carson MSU SCUBA Club East Lansing, MI
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-07 02:54:03 I never met Marcus Groh and what happened to him during the diving incident was tragic for everyone concerned. My condolences to Mr. Groh's family. I have known Jim Abernathy since he was just a youngster coming into the dive shop with his brother to fills tanks. He was a huge diving enthusiast even when he was young. Jim's diving passion enabled him to earn a living from the thing that he loved the most, SCUBA. Because Jim loved diving......he naturally loved the marine environment and all the marine life there in. Over the years that I have known Jim, he has always been an exceptionally strong ally for anything that required attention or support in the ocean. Jim filmed problems like algae or reef polution problems and created awareness for the problems with his imagery whenever needed. If you lived in the ocean and you had a problem, Jim Abernathy was your best friend. I am not positive but I believe that Jim feels alot like I do and many other long time divers that sharks are incredibly awesome. As long as I have been diving and teaching diving, I have always been fascinated by encountering a shark underwater. You see the beauty immediately and understand how perfectly the shark is adapted to it's environment. With first encounters there is always a bit of nervousness which almost always melts quickly into admiration as you see how sharks move and operate in their liquid surroundings. When you dive long enough and encounter numerous sharks underwater, you begin to understand what a great priviledge it is to be able to see sharks where they live. When you experience these types of encounters and become comfortble with them it is only natural for you to want to share them with others. If you happen to run dive trips for a living you can offer the experience to others more often. Sharks have never been 100% safe, parachutes don't open every time and there is always going to be risk in what ever outdoor sport or activity your choose. To average people who spend most of there time on the couch, always minimizing their exposure to risk, what Jim Abernathy does with shark dives must be shocking. To other people who have experienced many shark encounters over many year as I have, I felt it was completely understandable that Jim would want to share what he had learned and experienced with sharks. I always suspected that interfacing with sharks like Jim does was possible but he actually got in the water and proved it. Since sharks have become over fished and over killed in recent years, there is no doubt in my mind that some of Jim's thinking was that the more people understand sharks, the less likely they are to kill them and that fishermen would consider releasing them if caught. All the press and TV that I saw was a shark frenzy in and of it self. Sensationalism is the key ingredient for news and it seems Jim Abernathy knocked out Britney Spears for a couple of days. Here was a guy who I have known for quite some time being depicted as pretty much the opposite of who he is, which is someone who would throw himself under the bus to rescue a shark or help a fellow diver. People make choices, especially in this day and age of extreme sports. So many people want to take those extreme risks and get the picture and the T-shirt but without the risk. Every now and then the bungee cord breaks, the chute doesn't open or the plane hits the ground. Diving and especially diving with sharks is another one of those risks. Jim's record is exceptional in any sport and these things are tragic and unpredictable when they do happen but I feel that anybody who elects to take the risk, could not be with a better guide and dive leader than Jim Abernathy. Herb Vandepol NAUI 2292
Posted by hrdshark on 2008-03-06 21:04:55 I was on my fifth trip with Jim Abernethy in January. Jim runs the best, safe "big animal" trips in the diving world. This vilification of Jim by the press and by members of the "shark expert" community is disgusting. Their self aggrandizing actions are an insult to the memory and family of Markus Groh. Mike Bryant, NYC
Posted by Mike Bryant on 2008-03-06 14:19:07 First of all, my sincere condolences to Markus Groh's family and friends. Also, I want to offer my support and best wishes to Jim and all JASA staff and crew. I had the opportunity to participate in a shark expedition at May 2005. It was the first time I could be face to face with tiger sharks. Also, it was my first time with underwater digital camera. I remember the patience and dedication from Jim teaching me to use the camera, to edit the pictures and more important, taking care of me underwater, and teaching me about shark behavior. Since then, I've always wished to come back to the Shear Water to repeat that experience and still I wish. All of us know the risks to stay with wild animals and big predators like sharks in their own environment. I'm sure that Markus knew that also. This terrible accident should not affect to the professionality of Jim along his life dedicated to show marine life to all of us. So I will continue to support Jim in their shark adventures wherever he could do. Sincerely, Amadeo Zarza Madrid SPAIN
Posted by amadeo on 2008-03-06 06:27:17 My sincere condolences to Markus Groh's family and friends. My thoughts and best wishes also go out to the other guests on the boat, Jim, the Shear Water crew, and staff at JASA. I was on Shear Water Jan. 18-26th, 2008. It is very difficult to explain in words what happens to you when you are on that boat and in the water with Jim, his crew, the wild ones, the players and the super models. It all comes together in a magical way and is all tied together by one element: Jim's focus on every diver's safety. He and his crew are 100% focused on having his guests enter the water, observe the wildlife, and depart the water safely. This is not only discussed in the extensive first dive briefing that he is famous for, but is really, the main theme throughout our entire time on the boat. I am 54 years old, "have been around the block a few times" and work professionally with risk management. I sincerely do not think it was possible for Jim to do more than he did on the trip I was on to ensure our safety; and, I strongly believe that his routines (and jokes?) are standard operating procedure on all of his trips. I sincerely believe this incident is the textbook definition of an accident with a tragic outcome. My thoughts are with those involved and those affected and I sincerely hope that JASA can continue its work in introducing (and educating) more people to the incredible world of large sharks. Sincerely and respectfully, Peter Wallach, via web Stavanger, Norway
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-05 23:19:02 There is probably more risk in driving to the dive boat, than diving with Jim Abernathy and the sharks. In any case, Markus Groh knew and accepted the risks. Thousands of shark divers bring millions of dollars to the Bahamas economy, and to other shark diving destinations. This money adds great value to the local economy, and to the sharks themselves. It keeps the sharks alive, instead of turning them into soup. If dive operators are forced, by new regulations, to use cages and to stop baiting, this WILL reduce risk to divers -- only because no divers will then be coming to the Bahamas to go shark diving. Just like no shark divers will come to Florida or California anymore. There won't be a shark diving business, no fun and excitement, divers will stay home and watch my shark footage on TV. And wait to die of prostrate cancer. I have been on at least three of Jim Abernathy's diving/shark filming expeditions. I have made a living, for 25 years, filming sharks and the marine environment around the world. Jim Abernathy is the best operator, for shark diving, that I have ever worked with. His care, attention to detail, and concern for his customers and the sharks, are all very professional. I will continue to support Jim Abernathy's shark diving operations. And I suspect that Markus Groh would too. Bob Cranston, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-05 23:16:10 My experiences diving with Jimmy started in 1984 when he was working for another dive operator in the West Palm Beach area. Since that time I have never dove with any other dive operator who was more safety and education oriented than Jimmy. When Jimmy started his own operation we passed up some very potentially profitable opportunities to stay with Jim. He is simply the best operator in the Florida area. I have run trips down to West Palm Beach, and the Bahamas with Jim exclusively since then and have never felt that at any time he has taken any undue risks. He always knows his divers and if they are new his vast experience can and does evaluates their capabilities and then tailors the dives to be safe and enjoyable for all involved. There have been times I've seen Jimmy not let people in the water, even at the risk of loosing them as customers. He is a true professional in every way. If at any time you need any help in any way as a witness to his fitness as a diving Instructor, charter operator, or just a excellent human being, please feel free to contact me. I would be more than willing to come down to Florida even on my own dime, to help out. It goes without saying, accidents do happen. People get hit by lightning, have car accidents, and yes once in a while, die because of a diver/shark encounter. Jimmy had nothing to do with this short of being the dive operator who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Sincerely Yours, Rick Sass NAUI #4782, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-05 23:13:58 As a father and a diver my heart goes out to the Groh family in there time of loss. I have had the opportunity to work at many of the world’s shark diving encounters, as an underwater photographer. I can say easily that Jim and his JASA organization are as professional as they come. Never has there been a more ardent supporter of sharks and shark conservation than Jim Abernethy. When you spend time with Jim, you quickly find out his very soul is about the ocean. His passion and life revolve around sharks. Jim does not run a business but a platform for us to experience the majesty of nature. He is every bit as passionate about safety, as he is about the sharks themselves. Over the years, thousands of divers have traveled to the Bahamas to experience sharks up-close with Jim, and returned safely to tell their friends about these amazing animals. Jim not only hosts individual divers, but the world’s top underwater filmmakers as well. He has made it possible for the widest audience to see these magnificent creatures and gain the true appreciation that can lead to their protection. No one cares more about people and sharks than Jim Abernethy. He should not be the one to pay for this unfortunate mistake. Mark Conlin, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-05 23:11:00 well finally a intelligent response to a truly tragic accident. i myself have dived with jasa on several occasions . jims number 1 prioity is your safety. jim runs one of the best operations and one of the safest. jim or his crew are nothing short of top shelf. your safety is paramount while onboard jims boat. to say he or his crew is negligent is total bs. to the family my prayers are with you . > well take care .................................steve parisi owsi 167824 hope to see you soon maybe at BTS in NJ
Posted by scubaman40 on 2008-03-05 22:29:38 Jim's operation is top notch, his concerns with the height of safety and conservation, and his crew are some of the best in the business. We've shot aboard Jim's boat before and will shoot some of the next film with as well. I truly hope this incident doesn't undo the work many of us have done trying to align people with a new view of sharks. We've done a ton of media since the accident, and the media seems to understand what happened - the shark made a mistake. People should see this shark bite as a terrible accident that is unlikely to be repeated. Jim and his operation are true professionals. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Markus Groh's family. Jim, stay strong buddy. Everyone is behind you. Rob Stewart Sharkwater.com
Posted by Sharkwater on 2008-03-05 13:57:37 Though brevity is not my forte, I enthusiastically endorse and incorporate by reference the comments of Douglas David Seifert, Note #96. That said, his analysis and sentiment reflect the main truths and lessons to be learned from such a tragedy. Don’t blame sharks in general or this one. Don’t blame Jim Abernethy, his dive operation, or his staff. Don’t blame, nor in any way curtail, the unique and rewarding type of shark encounters Jim Abernethy and many other colleagues worldwide provide. Don’t accept the biased, unfounded, envious Bahamian dive industry mouthpiece’s diatribe that Jim’s operation is dangerous unless he uses cages. Statistically, the odds of only one death ever on the entire planet from a shark bite on a marine life shark feed encounter are astronomical! So the last truth is that it would be unforgivable, unwarranted and, in fact, reprehensible to stop shark feeding operations in the manner of Jim Abernethy’s Shark-Adventures. It is no less a tragedy and loss that Mr. Groh has died from the shark bite. It appears that the bull shark did not attack him, but mistakenly went through the bait box and bit him on the calf. It was a bite and release without tearing the flesh. More evidence that the diver was neither prey nor the target. Regrettably, the tragedy is personal for Markus Groh, his family and friends. Yet, it is not without effect on the rest of us who love doing what he perished doing. I did not know him, but as a fellow lawyer and shark diver, I feel the camaraderie of his reasoned choice to be among sharks in the wild. I am sure such a person with his credentials was well aware of the risks and dangers. Unfortunately, delayed medical treatment is part of the risk of having to travel to remote locations to find the sharks. They are not being baited near human populations. I mourn his loss and the pain that death brings to those who knew him. I have been privileged to be included on Jim Abernethy’s early exploratory shark expeditions, too. I never have felt threatened by the dozens of large predators surrounding me in 360 degrees. Did they come in close and eyeball me? You bet. Are they curious? Absolutely. Jim has always put safety first. He has gained an unparalleled wealth of knowledge of sharks and their behavior in the wild. The nature of his encounters over the years has given him an understanding of individual shark’s personalities and moods. Jim sets the rules, and there are rules. He won’t hesitate to send recalcitrant customers home or order divers out of the water in a ramped up situation. But Jim Abernethy is the most enthusiastic, positive, tireless, and devoted character, and I do mean character, I know in the dive industry. He will try anything to afford peak photographic opportunities for the thousands of professional filmmakers who have come to trust his expertise. Going on these dives is a huge investment of time, money and physical stamina. No one and no business would continue to expend such resources on Jim Abernethy and his company unless his successes were not legendary. This is serious business. People are not fooled or cajoled into a false sense of security. But these are wild animals that have teeth. We all know we could be bitten. The risks we accept are well within sound reason. Jim has a proven track record of uninjured and safe diving with these majestic wild animals. Under that outgoing exterior, he is all seriousness. He breathes marine conservation. His briefings are exhaustive. He does bait the larger predators who have aggressive reputations. Ironically, his detractors support attracting sharks to kill them, but not to bring them close to photograph them. The idea is to bait them without feeding them to keep them around. There is no blood and rarely frenzy. The analogy of throwing people into a lion cage at the zoo is inappropriate. Taking wildlife conservationists and enthusiasts to remote locations to experience, first-hand, the awe-inspiring, admitted predators is more like a big game guided safari. Indeed, if a leopard jumps from the brush and kills a hunter, should all safaris be banned? Hardly. Let us all hope that the instant overreaction against sharks, shark diving and, certainly Jim Abernethy, subsides really soon. Let us hope the Bahamian government and the Bahamas Dive Association do not pull the plug. I would go back out there with Jimmy in an instant. I am a shark lover. I would see sharks on the inside of my eyelids when I finally closed my eyes after a full day on the Shear Water. These trips are some of my most memorable dives in my life. I am alive and exhilarated to be among the sharks. Jay Garbose Producer Jay Garbose Underwater Video & Internet Productions garbovideo@bellsouth.net
Posted by garbovideo on 2008-03-05 12:56:36 Jim's the absolute professional and runs the best shark diving operations in the world. His focus on safety and yet providing photographers the best and productive shots is legendary. But what really sets him apart is his love of the business and sharks - it is impossible from my mind that he would compromise safety having been on his boat on two seperate trips. I would definitely go again without reservations. What people need to recognise is that shark diving has its risk (just like safari) but you are definitely good hands if Jim is leading the trip. He gets my top endorsement. Hang in there Jim ... we are all right behind you.
Posted by paulwhng on 2008-03-05 10:32:22 When I dived off Shear Water in February 2006 Jim was not on the boat, but whilst we missed his larger than life personality, safety was never compromised and my companions and I never felt threatened by the sharks we came to dive with. I just don’t buy the argument that these animals come to associate all divers with free hand outs of food, as unlike with some shark diving operations they seldom get fed at all! Indeed much has already been made of the extensive safety briefings provided & underwater discipline required when diving off Shear Water. Diving of this nature can never be made 100% safe, without detracting from the experience, which is something we all clearly understand & accept. It was with tremendous sadness that I learned the news that Markus Groh had died as a result of this freak accident. I hope his family get some comfort from the fact that he died doing what he obviously loved. I have made it clear to my family that if I come to grief doing what I love, I do not want them to blame anyone else for my misfortune. Yes accidents do happen, very occasionally, but I am confident that Jim & his crew are the best at what they do & I would not hesitate to dive with JASA again. In fact I am already looking forward to my next Shear Water trip in March 2009. Hamish Morrison.
Posted by Hamish Morrison on 2008-03-05 09:18:51 I wish to express my sincere condolences to the family of Markus Groh. Clearly this is a great loss and he will not be forgotten. With that said, I am also compelled to share my personal impressions of Jim Abernethy and his crew. Last summer I was fortunate enough to join this team on the Shearwater for one week in the waters of the Bahamas. Never before have I experienced such professionalism along with a genuine passion for the marine life we were all there to observe and celebrate. Safety is a top priority on Jim Abernethy's boat and great efforts are made daily to ensure there is no confusion about the rules and expectations of each dive. Jim demonstrates great energy and excitment about sharks, and all diving opportunities in general, but that does not in any way distort his ability to stay focused and maintain expert guidelines for everyone involved. These trips are about education and understanding more than anything else, and reverence for all marine life is made clear. These encounters inspire people to be advocates for all the great creatures of the oceans. An appreciation for sharks, dolphins and more begins with an understanding of their world. There is no greater way to ignite a passion for marine conservation then to enable people to learn firsthand about their world and their habits. People take risks every day in an attempt to enrich their lives, from sky diving to hiking in the deep remote woods. The question is this: Should we eliminate these activities and freedoms relating to time in natural environments because risk exists? I think not and I believe millions of other people would agree who also enjoy connecting with nature and it's awesome beauty and mystery. My hope is that Jim and his crew can continue to bring those people who desire to learn about the oceans and it's great wonders on encounters. Jim is a gift to us all-marine life and people alike since we all benefit from his extensive knowledge, skills, passion and professionalism. He is well respected by those fortunate enough to cross paths with him. After a week with Jim on the Shearwater I feel compelled to increase my support for organizations that protect marine life. After witnessing Jim at work, I believe a person could not be with any one more knowledgable or conscientious. He is a dedicated and skilled professional.
Posted by jrnolan on 2008-03-04 23:46:29 A second thought: I posted #87 regarding this tragic accident and in full support of Jim and his dive operations and while in traffic tonight, staring at the back of a vehicle, it struck me as ironic that the Florida "Save our Seas" License plate has the image of a Tiger or Great White Shark ( I leave the proper designation up to the pros on this site) together with two divers. One of those divers is in our minds, Jim. One could easily argue that our great state in fact appropriately is promoting divers to be one with our sharks. Just a thought, and here is the link , take a look, as I am not able to post the image. Regards to all, Gary Lickle http://www.savefloridaoceans.org/default.html
Posted by glickle on 2008-03-04 22:53:48 I did not know Mr. Groh but, I do know he did not live his life in empty dreams. His willingness to explore at the edges of the blue wilderness, the last and the wildest of the wild worlds, made us brothers. I would like to give my condolences to Markus’ family and friends in this time of sorrow. The sudden and unexpected passing of a person you love is the most difficult experience all of us will ever have to endure. May God’s blessings and peace be with you all. I have known Jim Abernethy for a number of years. I have dived with Jim’s operation off Palm Beach many times, and I have been on the Shear Water several times. I was on the Shear Water with Jim at Tiger Beach a little over a year ago. I began deliberate shark diving in mid 1970’s and have continued unabated to this day. I have dived with sharks in Florida, the Bahamas, Brazil, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Colombia, Fiji, Australia, the Tuamotu Archipelago, South Africa, and North Carolina. Without even the slightest hesitation I will state that Jim Abernethy runs his trips to a standard unequaled by any operator with whom I have ever done business. Your safety comes first on Jim’s boat. If you don’t follow the rules, Jim will let you know, without a hint of ambiguity, that you need to pay attention for your own safety and those of the crew and the other divers. If you are going to swim with sharks, you want Jim Abernethy in charge of the trip. Jeffery F. Trotta Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-04 17:28:14 We were lucky to have the possibility to join Jim and his crew on a trip during February this year. The amazing experience - the careful introduction to the most incredible sharks and the detailed instructions about behaviour and rules installed whilst meeting this wonderful supermodels gave us the possibility to learn and to understand more about interaction and protection of those wonderful creatures ! An experience to meet people like Jim - who is really one in a million - enthusiastic and full of love for the underwater world and who enables people to experience the company of sharks in a natural environment - making it possible to learn more about them in a safe and careful way - never forgetting that they are wild animals. There was no one else that I would choose as company than Jim or one of his Crew members when diving amongst sharks. The photos and the impressions that we took home with us from the shark trip impressed the people in our area and even changed there point of view about sharks - helped as well to understand - or better - to have at least a neutral picture - of the incident that recently happened. We'd like to give our condolence to the family of the diver that died. Claudia & Dieter Lehner, via web Vienna - Austria
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-04 17:27:18 To Whom it May Concern: I've known and dived with Jimmy since 1992 and have yet to meet someone as enthusiastic and dedicated about ocean conservation as him. He is the "go-to guy" in the Bahamas for ocean exploration and underwater cinematography, and has, quite simply, put the country and its rich waters on the map. On countless trips with him and his crew, I have seen JASA always emphasize diver safety. I've had the privilege through my work to photograph sharks (big & small) on many locations worldwide, and his operation is among the most reputable, safe and consistent in my view. The recent accident is extremely extremely unfortunate, and my thoughts and prayers go out to Markus Groh and his family. Michael Patrick O'Neill Photographer & Author
Posted by Michael on 2008-03-04 16:42:17 First of all, my sincere condolecences to the family of Markus Groh. I went on a shark expedition onboard Shear Water in March 2006 with Jim Abernathy. Even if it was my first experience of that kind, I felt completely safe thanks to Jim and his team. That was an unforgettable experience and I would sign again anytime if it is with Jim. Emile Mabita (Belgium)
Posted by mabitmo on 2008-03-04 15:52:28 To Whom it May Concern: My wife Kathy and I had the opportunity to dive with Jim Abernathy last year in the Bahamas, and were enriched by the experience beyond measure. Further, we are appalled to think that his operation will be restricted because of one accident, as tragic as it may have been. For what it is worth, I made an estimate of how many such dives that have been made under similar circumstances. Assuming that Jim has been in operation for 7 years, runs 40 trips per year with 12 divers for 10 days doing 4 dives per day, I come up with approximately 135,000 exposures. One accident translates to less than 1 incident in 100,000 dives. I then looked up the National Safety Council's odds for dying under various circumstances. The lifetime odds of dying from any force of nature including: heat, cold, flood, earthquake, storm, and (yes) lightning are 1 in 96,658. I conclude that Jim's record is an exceptional one, and he should be praised for it not penalized. John E. Lewis, Ph.D.
Posted by jlewis007 on 2008-03-04 15:18:21 Dear all, I totally stand by all the comments made above this one (and the ones below probably as well). Although Jim was not on board the Shearwater when we took the trip in November 2005, Grey, Jake, Wade and the lot totally made up for his absence. 20 years as an outdoors professional, from the Himalaya to bungy jumping to diving five oceans, have taught me a little about safety... JASA is one the safest operators I've come across, all fields considered. Things can happen fast in the water and sharks move rather fast as well. Without report from a direct witness, we will probably never be able to find out what precisely went wrong. But even the greatest opponents to shark diving have to admit that this single accident somehow confirms that well run shark encounters are not as dangerous as they pretend. Except for one person on board, all passengers were top ranking photographers, more than seasoned divers and experienced shark divers. There was not a single moment where any of us felt threatened. And there was not a moment where we were not all thankful for the professionalism and dedication of the crew. We experienced amazing encounters at Tiger Beach and other dive sites. We owe to Jim's knowledge and years of pioneering. The pictures and stories we brought back from this trip were published in seven magazines, making the cover of four. It was a breakthrough for us that made a difference ever after. Even in his absence, and like for many others, Jim has contributed to my career incredibly. But first and foremost, he has provided us with an opportunity to encounter safely magnificent animals -and to make another dream come true. I would not go into the African bush with the very intention of encountering lions without some kind of protection, because I can imagine how lions feel about my position in their food chain. But I'd go diving with sharks butt-naked anytime, because I know they don't have me on their menu. And if anything should happen to me or a close companion, we know it will have been an accident and we will have accepted the very risk of it. Shark diving is less dangerous than bowling. Being bitten on a shark dive is less likely to happen than getting killed while snowboarding. Insurers say your home is the deadliest place on Earth. If it's Jim running the trip, it will be a safe and fascinating adventure. So I'll take the blennies tour in the Bahamas as well. Anytime. Phil Simha, VP, SUNFISH productions
Posted by wetpixelphil on 2008-03-04 08:31:05 Douglas could not have been more complete with his comments. First is condolences to Mark's family. I have not been with Jim on a shark dive and have longed to do so. I have been on many other shark dives and I find that the fees paid to villages, support organizations to save sharks tell the story - a live shark is worth more than a dead one. Shark encounters not only thrill the participant but educate. The animals need to be seen and appreciated in the water and not at the end of a long line or in a bowl of soup. Michele Westmorland
Posted by photomrw on 2008-03-04 08:26:09 Bad news travels quickly and fast; here in Asia, news of the tragic event on board Shearwater in the Bahamas is much on the minds and tongues of divers here as everywhere. Distance can lead to perspective, especially without the influence of televised sound bites taken out of context and the media’s not so well hidden agenda towards sensationalism to attract the Generation ADD audience. Some things have been said, some should be reiterated, some discarded. First and foremost, heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh, whose loss, though an accident and tragic, at least occurred while he was following his passion. Perhaps his family and friends can find some solace in this and accept that accidents are a natural, if unfortunate, and unforeseeable occurrence of living. Second and of equal importance is the absolute necessity to hold sharks (all 400 species of sharks in general and bull sharks in particular) and Jim Abernethy (as well as his operation and staff at Jim Abernethy’s Scuba Adventures) blameless for this accident. Due to deadly combination of ignorance and indifference, greed and short-sightedness, sharks are, after a brilliant run of over 400 million years, headed towards extinction at an appalling rate of speed that could very likely occur within the next decade. With over one hundred million sharks slaughtered yearly for the soup fin trade, its understandable why when scuba diving in Asia and the Indo-Pacific that actually seeing a shark is now a rare event. The northern Bahamas Islands is home to one of the last healthy populations of large sharks (they are virtually absent from the southern Bahamas and further south throughout the Caribbean) in the Atlantic Ocean and is perhaps the last great place to encounter the great sharks (bull sharks, lemon sharks, great hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks). Jim Abernethy certainly did not invent shark diving in the Bahamas and would never make a claim to, unlike some of his vainglorious, fame-seeking, outspoken, vocal critics in the diving industry whose egos cannot accept that someone else successfully delivers a product they fail to deliver, but there is no denying he has refined it and made a success of it with an admirable safety record. Rather than attracting sharks to a feeding site a short boat ride from a land-based commercial enterprise on a populated tourist island, Abernethy works far from human habitation at sites where the sharks occur naturally. Unlike his critics in the industry (spelled “jealous competitors”), Jim does not feed sharks while wearing a chain mail glove or suit, instead he allows the sharks to be attracted to fish carcasses wholly contained within enclosures so only the stimulation of scent is given to the sharks. Having personally spent over 250 hours in Abernethy’s company working with bull, great hammerhead, tiger and Caribbean reef sharks on the first several exploratory expeditions that led to the programs Abernethy runs for tourists today, I can attest to Abernethy’s professionalism and his insistence on safety first. With the experience drawn over many years, Abernethy conducts the most safety conscious shark diving operation in the world and to close him down over a tragic accident would be tragedy compounded. I urge all decision makers to keep cool heads, get the facts from people with real experience (not those troubled souls trying to make a name for themselves by talking about things they know nothing about or with professional axes to grind), and to treat this incident as the accident it was, not as the scapegoat to prosecute sharks out of ignorance or Jim Abernethy’s shark diving operation out of pitiful jealousy. Sincerely, Douglas David Seifert Contributing Editor, DIVE Magazine (UK) (via web)
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-04 05:28:56 I have been on two of Jim Abernethy's shark diving experiences. He is a wonderful man with a great love for the sharks that he dives with. I have never at any time felt unsafe or in danger on his trips and I was very sad to hear that this has happened on one of his trips. I am also very sad for the victim's family. Jim is a good and kind-hearted man who will no doubt be devastated by this incident. Leanne Bentley (UK), via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-04 02:03:11 My thoughts are with the family of Markus Groh. This is a very difficult time for all of them, not helped by the US News Media. My sympathies are also with the other divers and crew who were on board during this tragic accident. I have been on a Tiger Shark expedition on the Shear Water, led by Jim Abernethy. It was one of the best weeks of my life and left me with incredible memories. I had never been in the water with large sharks before the trip, and my nervousness increased after Jim's first briefing. While Jim stressed he wanted everyone to enjoy themselves he also explained all the dangers and rules and warned he would dump anyone back on shore if the rules were broken. There was no doubt he was serious. The Shear Water was run well, and the emphasis was on safety the entire time. I can't think of anyone I'd rather be in the water with around large sharks.
Posted by davebaird on 2008-03-03 21:52:33 I have had the honor of being on several trips with Jim Abernethy and his crew. I always felt that safety was the primary concern and focus above all other factors on these trips. I have never met anyone more enthused about sharing his love for the ocean and marine environment than Jim Abernethy. I travel the world shooting underwater and topside photos for many publications, agencies, and institutions. I was certified in 1973, I can think of nobody else that I would rather have next to me on any dive, anywhere, than Jim. Stuart Westmorland
Posted by westwar on 2008-03-03 18:55:20 I've taken four Jim Abernethy shark diving trips over the past four years and done over a hundred dives with Jim and his crew. NO ONE gives more attention to passenger safety than Jim, and I've been diving with countless operators since I was certified in 1972. I've also learned more from Jim due to his professionalism and knowledge than from any other operator. I've observed (and experienced) Jim taking his passengers "to the woodshed" when he doesn't think they are doing all he's coached them on regarding safety. He's made me a better, more observant diver. He is an incredible asset to the diving industry, helping us learn, appreciate and be concerned for the fragile shark population. I have no greater respect for anyone involved in diving than I do for Jim Abernethy. I hope this one tragic accident will not stop all the great work Jim has done and will continue to do for diver education on sharks and safety. Ken Howard--NASDS, PADI, SSI
Posted by Ken Howard on 2008-03-03 18:25:40 My condolences to the family of Marcus Groh. It was truly an unfortunate accident, and one that everyone involved with,whether they knew him or not, regrets deeply. It also is one that should remind us that sharks are WILD ANIMALS. These are not zoo animals, trained animals, nor pets. Everyone who dives with Jim Abernethy knows the dangers of these animals....why.....because he is absolutley unbending with his saftey rules. In fact he will take you to back to the shore if you do not follow these rules, WITHOUT EXCEPTION! I had the honor of diving with Mr. Abernethy on a week long trip a couple of years ago, and I can say without reservation that there is NO ONE as capable around sharks as this man. Further, it would be a injustice to condemn this man's operation because of this accident. Jim Abernethy's attention to safety and detail while underwater with these animals is second to none. I cannot articulate enough the benefit Mr. Abernethy has done for the dive industry in the Bahamas. I support him and plan on diving with him in the future. Mark Gustin
Posted by thearmadillo on 2008-03-03 17:57:08 My condolences to the family of Markus Groh. I am a Retired, United States Army, Full Colonel. I am a certified PADI Master SCUBA diver. My diving experiences run the gamut from fresh water ice diving in New Hampshire, cold water diving off the coasts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine, artificial reef research diving in the waters off of South East Florida, and warm open water and wreck diving in the Bahamas, Turks and Cacaos, Cayman Islands, Bonaire, Bermuda, Florida Keys and South East Florida waters. I have performed over 500 dives with dozens of professional dive operators in these various locations. I have been diving with Jim Abernethy since I moved to the West Palm Beach area in 1990, nearly eighteen years ago. Most of my 500 dives have been performed with Jim Abernethy in the southeast Florida and Bahamas waters. Throughout all of my diving experience I have found Jim Abernethy’s operation to be the very best. It has always been run in a totally responsible, safe, caring and competent manner. I have never had any doubts about my safety or that of my dive buddies. Jim introduced me to shark diving some years ago. I have never felt endangered or frightened during these dives. I have never observed any problems in any fashion. I have always felt safe and under control with the knowledge that Jim Abernethy and his people, equipment, and particularly his complete and outstanding briefings are the best in the business. I have always had the option to dive with other operators and never passed up the opportunity to dive with Jim. Comment #90 H.Christian Jacobson Colonel,US Army, Retired
Posted by nashua88 on 2008-03-03 17:38:51 I am celebrating my 50th year in 2008 as a world traveling scuba diver. I have dived and traveled in more than 100 countries around the world. I have never met ANYONE in the dive industry as honest, reliable, safe, and caring as Jim Abernethy. Both he and I are terribly saddened by the tragic passing of Marcus Groh and I feel saddened for the family of Marcus. Jim and I have dove together many times. I have always found him to be a true professional diver, always concerned for the safety of his guests, and respectful of all critters in the ocean including all species of sharks. Nobody I know is more aware of safety in the water with sharks. I support Jim and his operation 100% Steve Drogin, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-03 14:30:23 Humans kill 60 million sharks a year. Sharks are in danger of extinction from our world. Many of my shark pictures are used to educate our children and the public as well as to protect shark species. Jim Abernethy is my friend and one of the most passionate people who wants to protect our sharks from extinction. When I joined his expedition, Jim and his crews gave me the opportunity of a lifetime to make some of the best shark pictures. Jim's shark dive operation is the best and safest way to encounter and closely observe many magnificent shark species in Bahamas.
Posted by MasaUshioda on 2008-03-03 13:56:47 First and foremost my heart goes out to Markus Groh and his family, a fellow diver and I am betting a like minded great guy who was diving with Jim for exactly the reasons all of us have so elequently expressed on this site. Also my deep concern and thoughts for my good friend Jim his crew and his staff who work so hard to enrich our lives as curious humans on this planet. Without Jim's leadership and the dedicated divers, like each of you, responding to this out cry, regulation and the couch sitters would never know what it's like to slip beneath the oceans and truly begin to understand how important all this work is to protecting and understanding our oceans, its creatures and our planet.(Yes, where do they think all those great shows they love to watch on Discovery, National Geographic, Shark Week ,Dirty Jobs etc come from?) Having read all the enbtries I am truly moved by, 1) Eric, you are a true friend and instrumental person dedictated to doing what's right. Thanks for setting up this respectable site, as too many blogs and media out there are simply ignorant or want only to sensationalize this accident and 2) I am simply in awe at the articulate and well written group on this site and how each of you are expressing what we all feel in a responsible and constructive manner. We have all been to many web sites in all sorts of other areas of interest and almost all of the blogs turn to unfair jabs, cheap shots or downright viscious email attacks which destroy the learning process when something happens that we all can learn from. Not this site! Everyone should be proud of how inteligent and responsibly this group is acting toward the betterment of diving, learning about sharks and this sad and tragic event. We will all need to continue to be constructive toward each other as this accident continues to unfold so we can learn, not destroy. Bravo to all! I am a great friend of Jim's and we dive and fly together and I have never met anyone so passionate about his work. That passion is infectious to all who wish to learn and be with him. We all have experienced Jim's ability to make you feel as if each trip is a "first" as it is his energy, entusiasm and curiosity that keeps that sense of adventure alive in all of us. After 40 plus years of diving around the world, I have been on dozens of shark feeds/encounters and nothing compares to the experience and prfessionalism on Shear Water with Jim and his crew. I recently hosted 4 couples to experience the Tigers, Carribeans, Dolphins and Turtles and everyone of us are changed, not just as divers but as humans all in a most positive way, thanks to Jim and his team. Our 4 day trip was the best 4 days of my life and one I and my guests would repeat anytime. The professionalism, the concern for saftey, the experience and education was over the top. Everyone on these trips knows that they are dangerous and are briefed acordingly. Everyone also knows that when swimming in the open with sharks with or without bait that WE are in THEIR environment and that anything can happen regardless of all safty measures. Many armchair critics think the act of diving alone is dangerous but then that's OK for them, just don't pick up a pen and broadcast your uneducated opinion. I am disgusted by Mr Watson ( who by the way also hosted for his divers non caged shark feeding encounters in Walkers Cay) and the editor of the Post self serving statements that do nothing to help us learn about this accident or constrcutlively how we can avoid it in the future. Their common position is "This death could have been avoided" What a grand thought! Everything risky can be avoided by simply not doing it. Our country once known for adventure and exporation has settled publicly into a new and sad mantra, "Avoid all things risky" and if you do something risky and get hurt , well then it must certainly be someone else's fault. Seems we as a country have lost our roots and understanding as to how we figured out how to fly, to go to space, capture electricity, build better buildings and bridges etc etc. Any wonder why we are losing our place as the leader in inovation in the world? How does a statement like Mr Watson's help us all learn so that others may prepare better. Seems to me its a bit like the weather man who predicts hurricanes will hit Florida and says we should not live in an area where hurrucane can hit. Then in the midst of the tragedy when many are suffering and tending to loved ones, looking for the strength to rebuild , along comes that weather man to cowardly proclaim himself a hero for predicting the obvious and the inevitabl, And to top it off then lays it on by telling everyone how stupid they are for not listening to him and for continuing to live in Florida. That hurts! and is of no constructive help whatsoever. Many great humans died along the way in pursuit of learning and then passing that education on to all of us and with those lessons lesser and lesser risk to us. My long over due THANKS to all who pioneered so that we might learn and learn from their mistakes. I count Jim Abernethy in that small group who goes the extra mile in so many ways to educate all of us on these wonderful creatures, the sharks. ( not to mention all his work with turtles and marine species of all kinds great and small) Much of the media commentary takes me back to a mindset I thought we had moved on about years ago 60's? when JAWS the movie was produced. How many innocent sharks died and how many of the public STILL have an unfounded terror as a result of the public mindset that was instilled by that entertaining yet irresponsible (from a scientific point of view) movie. We can still see in thecovergae today pieces of that still uneducated mindset that sharks are simply people killers and will follow you from Massachusetts to the Bahamas to eat you. Yes sounds so silly, but I know all of us still get similar questions about what we do and why we dive with sharks . Some questions are so naiive that one wonders if we will evr give sharks their place in the ocean. Thanks to guys like Jim and all the other responsible operators, I sure hope they continue on and with our help survive the ignorant and become even better representatives of the cratures on our planet that need our human help to survive. Respecfully submitted, Gary Lickle
Posted by glickle on 2008-03-03 12:18:10 I knew Jim 6 years ago. I did with him 13-14 shark trips in the Shear Water with my customers. I own 2 PADI 5 star dive centers in Spain (Vellmari) and I choose JASA operation to go diving with my clients due to the professionality I always find at the Shear Water. When I am on board I feel safe for my clients. The briefings given by Jim before the dives are abosutely perfect, full of knowledge and very clear information. The perfect organization when we are underwater to see the sharks. I dove all around the world seeking sharks encounters and I have never found a diver like Jim. He runs the best dive operation in the world specialized in sharks. Thanks to his work, hundred of divers every year learn how to be in the water with sharks SAFELY. For far, Jim is the most experience diver with sharks in the world. He is an example of how a diver should behave in the water with the sharks. Due to his job and his experience we know much more about shark behaviour. I will continue bringing my divers to be touch by Jim every year. THANKS Jim!! Manu San Félix, via web Marine Biologist & Ocean Chronicles Magazine editor SPAIN
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-03 12:12:01 The death of Marcus Groh is a tragedy. Each of sport diving's average of 80 deaths per year are tragedies. So are America's 30 deaths per year in sky diving and the nearly one death every day in general aviation. Statistics cannot diminish the anguish suffered by Mr. Groh's family or the regret we all feel that this accident took place. But those of us who dive in the open ocean and especially those of us who dive with sharks know we take a risk every time we enter the water. I have dived with Jim Abernethy many times and have engaged him as a consultant during production of an underwater IMAX feature. He is the most conscientious and knowledgeable shark diving guide I have ever worked with. Diving with Jim on one of his shark dives is as safe as any shark dive I have ever made. During the last decade Jim has conducted thousands of these dives without incident. This accident is certainly tragic. But each of us knows that the only way to stay 100% safe is to stay home. Howard Hall, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-03-03 12:09:21 I have been diving from Palm Beach county based dive charter boats since the mid 1980’s, and was even instrumental in gaining recognition and a large increase in dive tourism for Palm Beach diving…This occurred as I helped get the dive operators of Palm Beach county to work together to market the diving here “hand in hand” with the hotels and with County tourism. I had to spend a tremendous amount of time diving on as many of the Palm Beach county charter dive boats as possible, in an effort to “categorize” each boat, so I could then help divers find the “ideal boat for them”. This was one of the functions performed by the South Florida Dive Journal ( www.sfdj.com ), the internet’s first diving Magazine. Now with over 2 decades of familiarity with Palm Beach dive charter boats, and their captains and crews, I can state categorically that at no time in the past 20 years, or today, has any other Dive charter business or captain in Palm Beach county ( or Florida) done more for raising the standards of the Dive Charter business than Jim Abernethy. Jimmy Abernethy has always found a way to add more safety ideas and concepts in his pre-dive briefings, yet also create more excitement and “expectation of adventure” than any other operator I have ever been out with. From the first moment you hear Jimmy in his briefings, you can immediately tell that this is a man who truly loves diving, and he has had this love affair with the ocean for over 20 years now. When other dive operators had put in their 5 years and were starting to get tired of the whole life, Jimmy was just getting even more committed to bring his love of the oceans to even more people. In the context of the shark attack which occurred recently on a Shear Water dive trip, it is hard to get beyond the tragedy—the death of Markus Groh, and the pain his family will now have to live with... However, this incident has created a huge controversy, over whether negligence, wrongdoing, or different laws need to be addressed…To this, I must say “ABSOLUTELY NOT”. As I have said, I have never been on a dive charter boat with a more professional or better crew than on Abernethy’s boats. I wish the dive industry could learn from him, about how to brief for safety, how to plan it, yet still deliver pure fun and adventure. I see competitors of Abernethy trying to gain market share by attacking Jimmy now in the news, while none of them could ever have come close to the level of quality dive experience JASA has been putting out since it’s inception. If a potential investigator “could” fine a way to experience a JASA dive trip, they would immediately experience how baseless the claims of Jimmy’s competitors are---and that safety and extensive planning are handled with amazing professionalism. What would also become dramatically obvious, is that the divers who go on Abernethy shark dives on Shear Water, are extremely advanced divers, typically serious photographers or videographers, who have searched far and wide for the ability to get the photo experiences that Jim delivers with virtually every trip. This is why National Geographic, Discovery channel, Ron and Valerie Taylor, and virtually every top talent in shark photography or videography will be found to have been diving with Jim. You will also hear from these experts, that no one runs a safer or better trip, than does Jim Abernethy. What should also be clear, is that JASA does NOT run it’s shark trips for novice divers. This is marketed to advanced divers, the divers are screened, and proper planning and diver behavior is enforced. This is not a population of people that you could imagine suing someone because they were served hot coffee, without a warning it could burn them….These are people that are keenly aware of the danger of diving with sharks, they knew the risks, and they paid huge money to do these shark dives with Jimmy. These divers all feel they have THE RIGHT to be able to dive with these sharks, and that the non-diving public of America should NOT have the right to determine what kind of diving is “safe” for these advanced divers….I submit, non-divers or novice divers do not have the requisite experiences with sharks to know anything about what kind of dive with sharks is safe or not. Sharks showing up at a natural feeding event, such as a dead whale, do not have their behavior effected by the other fish which show up ( like groupers, barracuda, etc) , or by humans who show up as “incidental visitors”. There really is no reasonable parallel with land based wildlife—this has nothing to do with “feeding the bears”, as the natural feeding event occurrence in the ocean has NO similarity to any feeding behavior of apex predators on land ( bears/lions/etc). Yet too many of the non-diving public, or non-diving lawmakers, are more than happy to make a determination that “Don’t feed the bears” is somehow “instructive” for diving and shark encounters. Even forgetting that JASA just scents the water—they don’t actually have food being eaten by sharks in their form of a shark dive, the land based ideas of how a predator finds food , just don’t apply in the ocean. In any event, in this my testimonial, I would like to make it clear that I believe Jim Abernethy runs the highest quality dive operation that there is…that I know of no diver operator more concerned or more capable of planning and executing a safe, adventure dive than Jim….and that Jim’s customer base should be the confirmation source for the assertions I have made in this testimony. I would further add, that with any tragedy like this diver death, lawmakers can find themselves compelled to find a scapegoat—and here, I believe strongly that intelligent lawmakers would determine that scapegoating the JASA operation would be much like blaming Burger King for a customer burning themselves with hot coffee—and asserting they had no idea that hot coffee could burn them. JASA should NOT be the “scapegoat” used to make people happier. Dan Volker South Florida Dive Journal
Posted by dvolker on 2008-03-03 11:28:10 Sandra Edwards, Underwater Photographer I have been diving with Jim Abernethy Scuba Adventures for over 20 years, and I know Jimmy as one of the largest contributors to an understanding of the ocean, which the general public or the diving public, has ever experienced as a resource. Jimmy has brought so many people, so close to special and unique experiences, shared his own deep understandings, and enriched us so deeply, that I truly believe that this is a man who should be commemorated. As a photographer, I feel blessed to have known Jimmy, and had the opportunity to be taken out on dives by Jim, where he could give me one photo opportunity of a lifetime, after another. To a photographer, Jim Abernethy is the Holy Grail ...He can take a serious photographer who has struggled with their art for many years—who has dived thousands of dives to find the photo subject of their dreams—and Jim can deliver these dreams. For a videographer or photographer, Jim Abernethy is like the path to enlightenment. My sincere hope is that the news media and the Bahamian Authorities will wake up to the fact that Jimmy Abernethy is one of the best dive operators in the diving industry, and that he has done more good for diving, for sharks, and for the Bahamas, than anyone else in the news today. Regards, Sandra Edwards
Posted by sandraedwards on 2008-03-03 11:23:13 I have known Jim for more than 20 years. He is a safe operator. I've been diving with him in the Bahamas and Palm Beach. As an instructor and captain, I have no problems sending students and friends to his operation for diving. Twice I went to Walker's Cay to dive cage-free with sharks. I booked those trips through Neal Watson. Four other members of the Bahamas Diving Association offer cage-free shark diving, one even hand-feeding the sharks. So Neal Watson is speaking out of both sides of his mouth. Jim is doing wonderful and worthwhile work making people aware of the danger to sharks in the world and how we must do things to change the image of sharks in the eye of the general public. Sharks are in danger of becoming extinct and Jim is working to make people aware of that issue. He is tireless in his efforts. I am saddened at the recent death of a diver doing a shark dive. However, I think it was an accident and nothing more. Jim and his crew are very safety-conscious and work hard to make sure everyone involved is safe. They do not put blood in the water as some have indicated. They do not chum with divers in the water. All the guests are aware of the hazards but keep coming back. It is a sad thing that the uninformed or misinformed words of a few have the potential of hurting not only Jim's business and life's work but of the scientific community as well. If this work doesn't continue, then the potential for extinction only increases.
Posted by palmmermaid on 2008-03-03 10:25:01 Jim's safety briefings are the most detailed I have ever seen. There is no way you could enter the water on one of his trips without being appraised of the risks involved. In my experience, Jim has done everything in his power to make these interractions as safe as possible, and in doing so has helped shape our more enlightened view of sharks. As with everyone else on this list, my deepest condolences go to the friends and family of Markus Groh. Simon Rogerson
Posted by Simon Rogerson on 2008-03-03 09:56:13 I, too, would like to add my condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. They, along with Jim Abernethy and the crew of Shear Water have been in my prayers since this terrible tragedy occurred. However, this unfortunate accident has caused a media-blitz that has unfairly cast Jim Abernethy as a "cowboy" with no regard for the safety of his guests. This could not be farther from the truth. I have know Jim for six years and feel he is one of the most honest, caring, and safety-minded people in the diving business. I have personally been on shark trips with Jim twice, one with my daughter and another the following year with my wife and both of our children. As a husband and father, if I had any reservations about Jim's character or the safety practices aboard Shear Water, I would never have made those trips. Jim always has very long and detailed briefings about the shark dives and has very specific rules as to attire, entries/exits, and behavior of the divers. Anyone who does not abide by these rules will be taken out of the water. And if these rules are not followed, Jim will remove the bait crates and abort the diving. Jim is a true shark-lover. He is not in this business for the money. He is truly in it for the sharks. He is the most passionate person I have ever know when it comes to protecting the marine environment, and especially protecting sharks. His strive for safety in shark diving is both to protect his guests and also to protect the sharks from more media-hype so that we can all learn to love these beautiful creatures and stop their senseless massacre. Again, my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Mr. Groh but also with Jim and his crew. It's been a terrible week for all involved. Doug Ebersole
Posted by debersole on 2008-03-03 07:24:11 I have just completed a documentary to help protect sharks - called Sharks: Knights of the Sea. It's aimed at the next generation to help get them to understand the role sharks play in the sea. This documentary would have been impossible without the expertise of Jim and the expertise of the Shearwater crew. Their record of safety over the past two decades, and the comments from those who've been on board speak for themselves. There are only two people in the world I trust to take me underwater with large sharks - and Jim is one of them. My heart goes out to everyone involved.
Posted by SpaceShark on 2008-03-03 06:58:02 My deepest condolences for Markus Groh and his family. About JASA, Jim and the Shearwater crew... only good words and grettings. The cageless diving is neccesary like is neccesary the school and the zoological gardens. Is something about the education, the cageless divers have to explain to the rest of the people that the sharks are not human killers or something like that. The sharks are victims of the irresponsable films and Jim is a victim of the irresponsable journalist and "poor diving operators". Please, keep the cageless diving at Bahamas. Carlos Martinez http://rajesh.bluetales.com
Posted by Rajesh on 2008-03-03 03:18:41 I would like to extend my condolences to the friends and family of Marcus Groh. I can't imagine what you are all going through and my heart aches for your loss. My heart also goes out to Jim Abernethy and his crew. I have known and dove with Jimmy for years and i can't think of anyone i like or respect more. He is first and foremost an amazing conservationist and has done more for shark conservation than most could dream to accomplish. During my dives on the Shearwater, the utmost attention was always payed to the safety and well-being of the passengers. Safety briefings are given before anyone steps into the water and repeated daily. There are extensive rules on what you can wear, how to enter and exit the water and your movements while diving. Every single person on board is told of the risks of these dives and exactly what they can do to minimize them. Jim is very serious about enforcing the safety rules on his boat and is the first one to pull people out of the water if a problem exists. On all my dives aboard the Shearwater, i have never felt as though i was in a danger or being put into a out of control situation. The sharks show interest, but are not in any way aggressive towards the divers. It is unfortunate that this tragic accident has occurred. But that is exactly what it is, an accident. We all know and accept the risks that go along with this dive and we go in the water anyway. I stand by Jim and his crew, knowing that they have brought thousands of people back to shore safely(myself included), with nothing less than a new and profound respect for these amazing creatures. I will not hesitate to book with Jim in the future and look forward to my next chance to dive on the Shearwater.
Posted by nickola119 on 2008-03-03 00:23:13 My condolences go out to Mr. Groh's friends and family. I share many concerns with the people making statements in support of KEEPING cageless diving in the Bahamas, so I will try to be as brief as possible. I have been on three trips on the Shear Water, now, and what awesome trips they were. I am not a professional diver, but I have a love for sharks, and I dabble in u/w photo and video as a hobby. These trips have made dreams come true for me and others like me by bringing us up close to some of nature's most magnificent creatures. Each time I went on a trip, I knew what the potential hazards were and entered the water at my own risk. This could be looked at as a seemingly daunting leap of faith, especially the first time. But the professionalism and attention to safety that Jim and his crew exhibited made me feel as safe as possible. Before getting into the water with any sharks, Jim always gave an extensive dive briefing detailing what to expect from the various species of sharks, potential risks, how to minimize the risks, and other safety procedures. There was only a small group of people in the water at one time, and ALWAYS at least one of Jim's crew acting as a safety diver, and making sure all of us followed the safety guidelines. And yes, at some point an accident was bound to happen. Accidents can and do happen in any situation, whether it's in the wild or in the city. They will continue to happen no matter what people do to try to minimize the risks... that's why they are called accidents. By now, all of you have heard all of the analogies about getting mauled by a bear in Alaska, etc, so I will spare you my repeating of those, but they do make a great point. People have passions. We all have free will. And as an adult I have the right to choose to do the things I want to do for myself whether someone else agrees with it or thinks I'm an idiot for wanting to dive with sharks without a cage. If you think I'm dumb for doing what I do...fine...but let me do it. I won't interfere with decisions you make for yourself that I might think are dumb or reckless. The fact is no one is forcing anyone to take shark diving trips. It's probably safe to say that the people doing these trips have a true passion for the ocean and it's creatures--sharks in particular. We WANT to be in the water with sharks, we ACCEPT the risks involved, and speaking for myself, I won't blame anyone (nor will my family) should an accident happen to me. Finally, all of us who love sharks know that these creatures are in desperate need of our help. With populations rapidly declining, we need to do what we can to protect sharks. I am a teacher by profession. Every year, I talk about my trips, sharks, and diving to hundreds of students in my building. I incorporate sharks and diving into every lesson I can (it's amazing how much you can use these topic in math, writing, geography, science, etc). And each year I show these students my videos from my trips aboard the Shear Water. It's amazing to see the transformation from the beginning of the year to the end of the year in regards to the students' attitudes towards sharks. They go from having the "Jaws mentality" at the start of the year to wanting to "save the sharks" by year's end. They LOVE the videos I've made. It would not have been possible to get the shots I did and make these videos so exiting for young minds, had I not been on the Shear Water with Jim and his crew. These kids are the ones who will be in charge of protecting the oceans in the future and spreading the word. I have seen first hand youngsters become interested in diving, oceans, and sharks. I've had former students come to me later telling me that they got certified to dive because of me. I think I may have even created a future shark diver or two! This issue has ignited quite a debate. I urge anyone who is rushing to ban cageless diving due to this recent incident to reconsider. Please let those of us who want to do this have the right to choose to do it. Respectfully, Adam Lintz
Posted by adamlintz on 2008-03-02 19:02:38 This latest accident is truly tragic. I pray that Markus Groh's survivors and friends can somehow cope with his loss. I have personally done hundreds of dives with Jim Abernethy with large baited sharks including tigers, great hammerheads, Caribbean Reef sharks and bull sharks. I have been diving with both baited and fed sharks throughout the world as a part of my job and out of pure interest in these creatures and their plight at the hands of mankind. I am an underwater photographer, Diving Instructor and have been in the dive industry full time since 1981. Jim runs a very safe operation. He is genuinely concerned about the safety of his guests and wants to share with them a truly mind-expanding experience, that being to see large sharks up close without the confinement of a shark cage. At first glance this seems dangerous and thanks to movies and films expressly done to scare people, it is easy to see why that belief exists. Sharks have been given a bad reputation primarily based in fiction. That said, they can be dangerous and of course are awesome predators but they are not the vicious killers depicted. Through Jim's efforts thousands of divers have experienced the real story. He does this successfully because of his vast experience with sharks. He gives long detailed shark safety briefings, insists that divers go into the water in small groups of no more than 5 at a time and that one of his shark safety diving crew are present and watching the dive at all times. I have witnessed Jim and crew halt baiting activities and take divers aside when they are ignoring his stringent protocols. Trust me when I say, this man is very caring and passionate in regards to the safety of his guests and trying to show sharks in a better more understandable light than they have been portrayed. Thousands of sharks are being slaughtered as you read this, largely illegally for their fins. The marine biologists and our scientific community agree that some sharks are on the brink of extinction, yet some in the dive industry want to stop Jim Abernethy from showing people these great creatures outside the confines of a cage. These people should be ashamed of themselves and to the ones that have appeared in the media fanning the flames of public ignorance and panick I only have this to say. Be careful what you wish for, since you too have a stake in this and are making money off of shark diving. Your attention to this matter should be one of trying to re-focus the news media onto the facts. Stop being so self-serving and hypocritical. We know who you are and your continuation and encouragement to the media to make this a sensational event are very ill-advised. And to Mr. Neal Watson, I witnessed your Today show claim of a prediction of this attack while others in the industry like Doc Anes and Rob Stewart also made public news appearances trying to inform the public more accurately you decided to "maul" the shark diving industry. So I guess your website proclaiming that you are a "dive God" is true. http://www.nealwatson.com/MeetNealWatson.html You also have the power to predict shark attacks. It is you that need to cease and desist Neal Watson! Sincerely and respectfully, Andrew Sallmon
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-02 17:40:48 My sincere and deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Groh and to Jim Abernathy and the crew of the Shear Water. This was indeed a very sad and unfortunate accident. For those who have not had the opportunity to participate in one of these amazing dive trips, perhaps it could be described as something like an underwater safari. Like an on-land safari, there are some risks involved in trying to view apex predators "close up". For those of us who have had the privilege to participate in this amazing experience, we all know first hand of Jim's absolute dedication to diver safety, and his long track record without incident proves it. I personally am very grateful for the amazing experience Jim has provided to me with his "un-caged" shark dives. Shark diving will never be a risk-free activity (nor will safaris, biking, and mountain climbing), and the potential risks involved are clearly indicated well before anyone steps foot on the boat. I firmly believe that in a free society it should be up to the individual participant to evaluate the risk involved in an activity and make their own decision to participate or not. Jim Abernathy's hard work in the dive industry and dedication to these magnificent creatures is an inspiration. His participation in the sea turtle program is just another aspect of his commitment to preservation of the diversity of life in our oceans. I personally hope to have many more opportunities to enjoy the freedom of diving in the un-caged, among these magnificent animals. I currently have two trips planned to participate in un-caged shark diving the Bahamas with Jim Abernathy on the Shear Water this coming summer, and I sincerely hope to return as planned. Beth Welch
Posted by machas on 2008-03-02 11:40:14 One man's loss to the world is the whole world's loss. My sympathies are extended to the Groh family as well as to Jim Abernethy and his crew. My dad used to say that because I was a serious skydiver I must have a death wish. Actually, skydiviing,scuba diving, white water rafting or mountain climbing all have their serious risks, but they are not death wishes. They are life wishes, the desire to experience the sweetness that life can bring and the fullness these 'adrenaline' activities supply. There is no fault or blame here, life has its risks, Marcus knew that, we all know that, and yet we go on because it is there to do. Next time I am in the water, I will think of this....and continue my dive. Steve Douglas www.worldfilmsandtravel.com
Posted by steve on 2008-03-01 17:24:15 Like so many posting here, my wife and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Groh. Though we did not know him personally, we are affected by this most unfortunate incident because we shared with him something very special-- a love of sharks. While certain members of the media, the public, and even fellow scuba diving operators seem hellbent on spreading misinformation and placing blame where none is due, we will choose to focus on what we feel is most important: respecting the Groh family’s loss, speaking out against mankind’s wholesale slaughter of sharks for their fins, and stating our unequivocal support of Jim Abernethy, his crew, and business. Abernethy’s competence and professionalism, his commitment to both the safety of his guests and conservation of sharks, and his passion for sharing the magic of the underwater world with the world, make him in our eyes an Ocean ambassador we can’t afford to lose. In fifteen years as professional marine photographers working globally, we’ve yet to meet his equal. When asked if we wish to return to the Bahamas on the M/V Shear Water for a fifth trip to dive with sharks-- even in light of what has happened-- our answer is, emphatically, yes! Sincerely, Brandon and Melissa Cole MARINE PHOTOGRAPHY http:;//www.brandoncole.com
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-03-01 15:12:20 My name is Jeb Corliss and my job is risk evaluation. It's what I do for a living. I get paid to figure out how to do things in a safe way that appear very dangerous. Out of all the activities I do shark diving is by far the safest. It's what I do to relax when I have time off work. I have learned through my 16 years diving with sharks that they are actually far from the evil monsters the media portrays them to be. I have found that they are actually very intelligent and cautious hunters. When doing any activity there are rules that must be followed in order to do them in a safe way. Rather it be playing football, riding a motorcycle, jumping from an airplane or driving a car. If these rules are not followed any one of these things can cause injury or death. Shark diving is no different. Jim Abernethy has one of the most amazing understandings of how these animals work. He has come up with a set of rules that he lays out the instant you set foot on his boat. You fallow his rules and you will have a safe and breathtaking shark experience. You brake his rules and you increase the risk of injury exponentially. Jim watches his clients very carefully when underwater to make sure the rules do not get broken. If you brake the rules once you get a poke with a stick while underwater and then a very strong talking to when you get to the boat, reenforcing what the rules are and why they are important. If you brake them twice you are done diving. Jim had to give me the talk because I broke one of the rules. People who take pictures underwater have a tendency to focus on taking pictures and forget they are in the water with sharks. I was focusing to hard on what was going on in my view finder and letting sharks sneak up on my back. You must pay attention when you do these kinds of things. But lucky for me Jim was there to poke me with a stick and get my attention :) I learned more from Jim in 7 days then I did from 16 years of shark diving. The man is probably the best qualified person I have ever come in contact with when it comes to Tiger Sharks and diving with them. Before I met Jim I thought diving with tiger sharks without a cage was impossible. He quickly showed me how wrong that perception was. If you do very specific things then you can spend hours underwater with these amazing animals in an environment safer then driving in your car to work. If you look at Jim Abernethy's safety record it speaks for it's self. Over 20 years of taking people in the water with sharks and this is the first accident? You can't get those kind of statistics with any other activity. Driving to the market to pick up some milk becomes more dangerous when you compare the stats. Jeb Corliss
Posted by JebCorliss on 2008-03-01 13:02:05 Isn't it amazing how many of us are saying the same thing! How many of us have come away from a "Jim Trip" with everything that the very best of a vacation can give us. For me time spent with Jim is to soak myself in the joy of being alive and invigorating myself with Jim’s infectious energy and the thrill of living life to the best of what it can offer those of us with a passion for the ocean and sharks in particular. No doubt this is part of what brought Markus to the Shear Water. These trips are what they are. Nobody gets into the water not knowing what they are in for. I was last with Jim in April and my first day back at tiger beach I stood on the duck board looking through a cloud of Lemon and Tiger sharks wondering how I was going to tell my legs to let me jump in. Its part of the magic of what JASA has created in this experience. Are these trips safe? Well some years ago on my first run out with the Shear Water what struck me then was the length and detail of the safety briefing. I have been back many times since and, like everything on the Shear Water, that briefing has been improved and updated repeatedly. Last time I heard it, it touched on two hours long. Quite simply diving itself has risks. We all either accept them and get on with enjoying the ocean or find another pastime. Be sure of this though, the Shear Water crew, all of them, work all day and night to make those trips as safe as they can be. Jim is a unique soul, he's beyond charismatic. He has an empathic gift for connecting with people. I walked away from my first trip on the Shear Water knowing I’d be back because, like so many of the folks writing here, in Jim Abernathy I found a man who offered true friendship with his first handshake. Isn’t that a remarkable thing and so rare today. Markus’s death is dreadfully sad and his family and friends must be going through a personal nightmare. I’ve no doubt that all at JASA will also feel that tragedy but none more so than Jim himself. My heart goes out to him and no matter what the Bahamas authorities do, I know I’ll be back out to share time on the ocean with him again. Doug, you and I have shared time with Jim in the past and you're right, Jim doesn't do blenny trips but I bet if he did they'd be the best damn blenny trips in the world! Nigel Motyer Ireland
Posted by Nigel Motyer on 2008-03-01 12:34:05 I've been 2 times in 2007 with Jim. It was great trip and perfectly well organized. His diving briefing was especially safety oriented and no one can blame Jim for that. I support Jim Abernathy's action to bring divers to their most amazing encounters of their life. And I hope to be back in the Bahamas with him to film another time this great adventure. I also would like to extend my sympathy to the friends and family of Markus Groh. Denis LAGRANGE Rangiroa, French Polynesia
Posted by denis on 2008-03-01 11:25:31 We were privileged to dive with Jim and the local shark populations back in 2006 - an experience never to be forgotten & hopefully yet to be repeated in the future. We were devastated to hear the news about the diver who died from the shark bite both for his family but also for Jim's operation and the sharks who no doubt will be targeted by those people with fragile egos who only feel big & heroic by killing such a magnificent creature as a shark. The fact that this is the first death during an organised shark dive is testimony to fact that sharks are not out to eat humans. Lets hope this does not damage the shark diving industry or the sharks. We fully endorse & support Jim's operation & crew. Danny & Cathie Aslan, UK, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-29 12:17:31 My heartfelt sympathy and prayers goes out to the friends and family of Markus Groh. I didn't know Markus but it is truly a tragic event. I wish you strength and peace in dealing with this loss. My thoughts and support also go out to Jim and the rest of the JASA team. I did two wonderful trips with on the Shear Water last year and just can't speak highly enough of Jim and the whole team. Jim's passion for safety and for making sure that each and every person on that boat got the best possible shot that they could is unparelled. I've never seen such passion in any other diving operation. Jim, I hope you and the team know that you have the strength and support of many in the diving community. Robin Savchuk Amsterdam, Netherlands
Posted by Savchuk on 2008-02-29 10:50:28 First and most importantly, condolences to Markus Groh's family and friends. A terrible accident, but only an accident. I have been on the Shearwater with Jim three times. Jim's passion for what he does unsurpassed, and notwithstanding the incredible efforts he makes to ensure that his clients get what they want from the trip, he is always, first and foremost, conscious of their safety. He runs a first rate operation professionally and his experience around these sharks must be unsurpassed. Of course, there is an element of risk, as there is with any number of hobbies - motor racing; skiing; football. Everyone who dives with these sharks knows, and accepts, that there is that risk. Many will not understand the joy of seeing these magnificent sharks close up. But JASA's professionalism minimises that risk as far as is possible, and a tragic accident should be seen as that, an accident, not a reason to attack an operation which gives great pleasure to many divers and enables them to enjoy, as safely as is possible, the opportunity to see these sharks close up. All the best to Jim and his team. Hope to dive with you again very soon Derek Holwill London UK
Posted by DerekHolwill on 2008-02-29 08:02:22 I would like to add my condolences again here for Markus and family and friends. I have never made a trip with Jim so far but we have planned one within the next weeks. I have dived with bull sharks in both - baited and unbaited situations – as well as with many other sharks in both ways all around the world, but I am not an “expert” nor a scientist .. I simply have an idea of sharks and within Sharkproject we try to do “PR” for these animals. We wouldn´t have chartered Shearwater if we do not believe that Jim and his crew have the experience and knowledge of the behavior of pelagic sharks and as far as we know his safety briefings are exceptional. It is not easy to comment without being there and without knowing the facts, but I am sure that everybody knows, that a certain element of perceived danger is part of the attraction of extreme sports. My last days where filled with many phonecalls and discussions about that – with media, friends, participants of our planned week, Sharkproject members and and and … What came out and what we are trying to transport (especially to the media) is, that we definitely cannot blame or demonize sharks and that nobody has to look for or find a offender – it was a sad incident. Sharks are predators requiring RESPECT and there are obvious risks when entering in the water to engage with them. Especially if there are baited situations, behavior changes and risks increase. I also respect opinions of them saying that no wild animal should ever be fed, but I personally do not agree with such an absolute rule. I know that an incident like this is an atavism for conservation but on the other side ecotourism will be one of the very few possibilities to prevent sharks from being exterminated. It creates understanding for the importance of sharks in the marine ecosystem and food chain by showing that they are definitely no man-eaters. Let’s hope that the media discussions in US will quickly abate (its already calming down here in Austria) and that the facts of the accident will be analyzed rationally and help to prevent more such accidents in the future. All the best to Jim and regards from Austria, TINA / Christine Gstöttner, Sharkproject
Posted by Tina G on 2008-02-29 05:41:54 First, like so many other divers across the world, I'd like to send my prayers & sympathy to the Groh family & his friends. Please try to find some comfort in knowing that he died doing what he loved doing. I want everyone to know what a 5-star dive operation Jim Abernethy Scuba Adventures is. My husband & I have been diving with JASA for 3 years now. JASA is the only dive operation on the southeast coast of Florida as far as we are concerned. From our first dive, we were treated like we were family; right down to taking extra time with me because I'd only had 15 dives under my belt. Grey, you are one of the best that we've ever dove with. We appreciate everything you've taught us. Please don't take this the wrong way, but if I was on a dive and my life was on the line, you are the one I'd want by my side. I trust you with my life & my husband's life. Jim, the same goes to you. I remember the first time we met you. You just pulled in with the South American Discovery Channel on the Shear Water. You saw your Deep Obsession coming in from its first trip of the day. After we unloaded & reloaded you joined us. For whatever reason, you just started talking to Matt & I. Your face lit up when you talked about your love for big sharks. You told us all about your shark excursions & got very different reactions from Matt & I. I told you about as close to big sharks as I wanted to get, was maybe cooking on the Shear Water. Matt was ready to sign up. You told him not yet, because he wasn't experienced enough & when he did have the experience he had to make sure he did everything you told him to do, when you told him to do it, & how you told him to do it. Its because of that dive we continue to dive with JASA. We even try to plan our trips to West Palm around the Shear Water schedule in hopes we can dive with you again. We have never had a bad dive with JASA, but the dives we've done with you have been ones that Matt & I talk about the most. We even joke about how we feel we are diving with the Steve Irwin of the ocean. You love sharks just as much as Steve loved his Crocs. What makes diving with you so special is that you get divers to see what you see about the ocean & its inhabitants. Your enthusiasm is contagious. So contagious that I have made great strides in how I feel about sharks. I used to hate sharks & I'm ashamed to say, I once wished they all could just die. Jim, you are the reason I don't feel this way anymore. You are the reason I now Tivo Shark Week every year. My fear of sharks was once so great that I'd panic at the sight of a nurse shark. Now, because of you, I know that sharks are not evil maneaters. I appreciate sharks and their role in the underwater world. The article in Scuba Diving Magazine about sharks being slautered for their fins, honestly made me sick to my stomach. Before knowing you, that would not have been my reaction to that article. All this change of heart and I've never taken a shark excursion. I don't know if shark diving will ever be my cup of tea, but I owe you for the appreciation that I've come to have of sharks. You are honestly, one of their biggest allies. Finally, I'd like to tell Jim, Grey, & the entire JASA team that the ocean world owes you a great deal of gratitude. Your work is so important on so many levels. You share a beautiful world with thousands of divers from all over the world. Your research, knowledge, work with educational facilities like documentaries & films, with Splash for Trash, & the turtle research center in your area is priceless to a fragile underwater environment. You spread the truth about so many things that are misunderstood. I'm sure because of your work, many creatures in the ocean are still alive for millions of divers to enjoy. I'm sure this is one of the most difficult times in your lives, but please take what all these people are saying about you & your work to heart. Know that you are loved & the majority of the diving community is praying for you. Matt & I will see you after Spring Training. But until then, take care of each other.
Posted by Petersoncolts on 2008-02-28 20:53:36 I had the opportunity to go on a Shear Water shark expedition in January of this year, and it was the best trip of my life. The shark encounters were absolutely breathtaking, yet I never felt afraid or threatened with these enormous animals. And not only did I not feel threatened, I completely fell in love (especially with the tigers). Their obvious intelligence, individual personalities and gentle nature is apparent from the very first encounter. You feel so close to them that the thought of anyone harming them is the same as if someone were to hurt your dog. The reason that guests on Jim Abernathy’s Shear Water are able to have these wonderful encounters without feeling afraid is that Jim and the crew have an in depth understanding of the behaviors of the various shark species as well as extremely thorough safety procedures and rules. This information is communicated to the divers very clearly before anyone gets into the water. Throughout the week the crew members continually remind any divers who forget to follow any of the rules and they also encourage the divers to monitor each other. Then every evening after dinner, there is a thorough review of the day in which everyone – guests and crew – give constructive criticism and suggestions. I have been on many, many shark dives all over the world, but I have never seen this level of thoroughness, excellent communication and continual feedback. Neal Watson obviously doesn’t have a clue what he’s talking about, and I’m sure from his comments that he’s never been on one Jim’s trips. It’s just a shame that he’s had so much access to the media, and that many in the media seem to have blindly accepted his rantings as the truth. Jim Abernathy runs a first rate operation, and it would be a tragedy if he were forced to limit his operations because of a knee-jerk reaction to the typical media hysteria surrounding anything to do with sharks. We love you guys and we’ll be back on the Shear Water again next January! Mary O’Malley
Posted by marydiondiver on 2008-02-28 19:15:54 We went on Jim Abernethy's Shearwater boat Jan. 2-9 2008 and loved it. Jim and his crew Gray, Don, and Wade made us feel very comfortable, safe and full ( of food). Jim gave a great photo workshop and saved me many headaches with his camera setting pointers. The boat was better set up than we thought and between the other guests and the crew, this trip was unforgettable. And we have done the great whites twice and Fiji bull sharks once, all with Lawrence Groth at www.seesharks.com After this very unfortunate accident with Markus Groh, our hearts sank thinking about what our friends on the boat went through and how they must feel. I have worked on boats and have had a diver die in my arms.We don't decide the end. It is emotionally tough. Of course we feel terrible for Markus, his family and his friends that were also on the boat. We have prayed for everyone involved. This accident has rocked the shark divers world. One in part due to the lies and grand standing by the media and shark diving competitors. We hope that Markus' family and friends have the support they need during their difficult time. If he came all that way with his friends, I'm sure he was a good diver and I know he was in good hands with the Shearwater crew. We do what we do because we love animals and nature. We work to promote saving and better understanding these animals. We know the risks. If a miner dies in a mine collapse we don't criticize them and tell them they were wrong to go/work in the mine. I don't see/hear anybody criticizing spear fishers , shark fishers, snorkelers or surfers when they get bit. Shark divers are the people who try to save sharks. This bad press,misinformation and grand standing regarding this unfortunate accident undermines the attempts to save these necessary creatures. My best buddy is my wife Mary, who at 115 pounds makes me nervous when we are around some giants whether sharks, whales or strong currents, but she does what she loves, does it safely and lets God do what he does. Anyways, The same day we read about the accident we rebooked with Jim for next Jan. on the Shearwater. We are also waiting for our friends to fill up the rest of the boat. THAT, should tell you everything about how we feel about Jim,Gray, Don, Wade and the rest of the crew on at Jim Abernethy's Scuba Adventures. Robert Lupo Dion
Posted by Lupo on 2008-02-28 19:03:19 It is a shame that this tragic accident has once again cast sharks in a misguided light. I can remember when I was growing up that lions and tigers were considered such vicious predators which occasionally attacked and killed people. Great white hunters would shoot them on safari with little public outcry. After decades of exposure to these animals via Animal Planet and Discovery Channel programming, zoos etc. current sentiment has changed significantly regarding the big cats. It is this very type of enlightenment that Jim's shark dives provided his guests and subsequent audiences that viewed videos of these animals taken from trips on the Shear Water. The magnificence of these marine predators is to be admired not maligned. I find it curious when reviewing footage of my trip with Jim that the shark species "determined safe to interact with outside a cage" (i.e. Caribbean Reef Sharks) exhibit far more aggressive behavior towards the divers than the more solitary "potentially dangerous" species like Tiger and Hammerhead Sharks. Diving in of itself has inherent risks as do many human activities including other recreational sports. We all make the decision to accept the risk when we engage in these activities. In regard to the animal encounter aspect the simple fact is that there are a great deal more injuries and fatalities do to diving with venomous marine species like lion fish, jelly fish and stone fish than with sharks. The loss to the Groh Family is not diminished by sensationalizing this incident. This was an isolated incident, the first as I understand it in commercial shark diving. Let us not restrict the public from learning more about sharks with knee-jerk legislation limiting the opportunity to witness them in the wild. It is my hope that those who are in the position to regulate diving with sharks will maintain a real perspective. Frank Virgadamo
Posted by Frank V on 2008-02-28 18:44:15 We at Shark Diving International wish to express our sincere and deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Groh and everyone else who has been affected by this tragic accident. We all feel an enormous sympathy for Markus Groh's family and friends. Shark Diving International has collaborated with Jim Abernethy on many expeditions and strongly believes that he displays the utmost professionalism and care for his clients, as well as for the sharks. As a fellow shark diving operator I have immense respect for Jim Abernethy as both an operator and shark conservation advocate. Jim Abernethy has always placed diver safety above all other considerations. We promise to continue to support Jimmy through these difficult times. This was a very sad day for the shark diving industry worldwide. The death of Markus Groh was a tragic accident not caused by negligence of the operator or malice of the shark. Personal attacks on Jim Abernethy by his competitors in the media are deplorable and unwarranted actions. It is yet another sickening example of how far some will go to get media recognition and draw hits to their own websites. I think it is becoming clear to more and more people who one particular opportunist is. More importantly it demonstrates that this person's sole purpose and mission is to make a quick buck, rather than dispel myths and incorrect beliefs about shark behavior. Shame on you! The fact of the matter is that all of us wish that this incident would never have happened, but it did. Now we all have to work together to get through this and support each other, especially Jimmy. Yours in Sharks, Lawrence Groth CEO/ Special Projects Director Golden Gate Expeditions Inc. Shark Diving International Great White Adventures 2516 Blanding Ave. Alameda, CA 94501 510-814-8256 http://www.seesharks.com/
Posted by captgroth on 2008-02-28 17:39:59 I have been flying airplanes for 30 years as a professional airline pilot, and logged thousands and thousands of hours for a mayor airline. The other day I read a comment from these people that are against shark diving. “These divers are all suicidal" It truly goes to show how ignorant people can be, I wonder if the hundreds of thousands of passengers I have flown around the world feel the same way too. So I say to them, next time you have to travel, why take the chance, you never know! You just might get on a plane with me tomorrow! Or if you decide to hit the road, keep an eye out! You just might run into one of the thousands of “Suicidal shark divers”. Or maybe even your family doctor might be one of them. So I think you should ask for some credentials before you make such vital decisions or maybe better, stay home and watch some TV, you will then be safe……I think? I have also traveled the world filming sharks. As an award winning filmmaker I have to say that until I met Jim Abernethy I had no Idea of what sharks where about, but his dive trips are more than just that. His passion and respect of all life forms goes beyond words, and only can be experienced on his expeditions. Thank’s to Jim Abernethy millions of people all over the world have read , watched documentaries and enjoyed incredible photos. All done on his boat “Shear Water” Oh yes! And I definitely don’t need no "Big Daddy" like Neal Watson telling me what kind of sharks I can dive with. If people like these can’t handle the truth about the risks involved in LIVING, leave us alone, and let us live our lives and make our own decisions. Leandro Blanco
Posted by LEO on 2008-02-28 14:53:29 I have been on three of these expeditions and brought my wife on the trip last Apr. I have found JASA to be very professional and extremely safety oriented. I hope that these types of dives will continue to be offered. It is certainly unfortunate that a diver died on one of these trips. It was an accident. The diver could not have gotten better care since the divemaster who brought him to the surface is an experienced EMT. A good analogy for this one is imagine yourself on a walking safari in South Africa. You have an armed guide with you, you've taken all the precautions to be as safe as possible, but there was a Leopard in a tree that neither you nor your guide spotted before it pounced. Those of us who choose to participate in these trips assume the risk and try to keep an eye on each other and the sharks.
Posted by mung1948 on 2008-02-28 14:14:55 I am sad and very sorry to the diver and his family about the tragedy. My deepest condolences sincerely. I believe Jim Abernethy is one of the best and safest shark operators in the world. I give my full support to Jim and his crew. Sincerely, yours, Stephen Wong, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-28 13:22:28 I joined a Jim Abernethy trip last summer - my first, but I don't intend it to be my last. It was also my first underwater experience of sharks. Prior to the trip, my view of sharks was an uneducated one, and I admit I held them in fear as 'killing machines'. One of my reasons for going on the trip was to increase my own awareness and overcome my fear which I knew was partly a product of media sensationalism, which I did not wish to submit to! My time with Jim and his crew truly opened my eyes to the beauty of these creatures, which I don't believe you can fully appreciate until you see them swimming freely around you. I did not experience the frenzy of teeth my imagination had always envisaged, but instead saw the sharks as serene and graceful, and generally unconcerned by my presence. Through the comprehensive safety briefs and talks we were given, I also came away with a great respect for the animals I saw, and the potential dangers involved in being able to view them in their natural environment. With regards to the JASA organisation, I considered their practices to put the highest priority on the safety and education - and enjoyment of course - of their guests. Whilst bait must be used in order to bring the sharks in close to humans, we were fully briefed on safe practices concerning our proximity to the bait, which was suspended on a rope in the water. I believe that this must be the safest way to use bait, as opposed to a chumsickle or particularly hand-feeding. This way, the sharks do not so easily associate people with food. I also came away with some wonderful photographs, and a marked improvement in my photography thanks largely to Jim who would offer his experienced advice freely and with a genuine desire to see all of his guests come away from the trip with the absolute best that they could. In fact on one dive, Jim swam over to me to adjust my strobes into a more advantageous position before swimming off again! I have highly recommended JASA to the members of my underwater photography club, and to anyone else with an interest in diving, and will continue to do so. I am very much against the proposed ban on cageless diving. Currently we can choose to dive in a cage - which I believe highlights the divide between 'them and us' and the impression of sharks as monsters that we must be separated from, or instead choose to experience their world more closely, and gain a greater appreciation of these misunderstood creatures. I think that an enforcement to run only cage dives would have a further negative impact on the way the non-diving public already perceives sharks. Tamsin Eyles, UK
Posted by TisTam on 2008-02-28 05:34:38 I consider myself privileged to have experienced a JASA trip to Tiger Beach last year. Safety was of the highest order and I left with an abiding respect for the sharks of the Bahamas. Jim Abernethy is clearly a passionate ambassador of sharks and this tragic accident should not be allowed to deter him from promoting a better understanding of these much maligned creatures through his carefully controlled shark interactions.
Posted by MalcolmNobbs on 2008-02-28 05:17:52 Aloha, Last year I had the honor of diving with the tiger and bull sharks with Jim Abernethy. I consider him one of the most knowledgeable and passionate shark advocates on the planet. As a marine life artist and photographer, he changed the way that I viewed these animals. His shark adventure was educational and inspirational. He left no doubt that these were wild animals and made the dangers very clear. Any one who would swim these apex predators knows this. I support Jim’s continued effort to share his shark encounters with people throughout the world. I also send sympathies to the family who lost their loved one in this accident. I look forward to going back to Tiger Beach with Jim in the future and hope others may also experience this rare wild ocean experience. Best fishes, Wyland (via PDF sent to Jim Abernethy)
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-28 01:27:34 First, I wish to express my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Markus Groh... who now emerges as a kind, intelligent and wonderful person. No doubt he shared our passion for the ocean, as well as a spirit for adventure. He will be missed and he will be remembered, and he will be loved. My heart also goes out to Jim Abernathy, his dedicated JASA staff, and his extended family..., which must number in the thousands. Knowing Jim and the crew of the Shearwater, I am certain this terrible tragedy has had a devastating impact on the entire JASA Team... especially Jim. I hope that everyone will be respectful of Jim, his family and his team. They too need and deserve time to grieve and come to grips with this most unexpected event. I have no doubt that they did everything in their power to manage and expedite aid for the injured diver. Secondly, I applaud the efforts and leadership of Eric Cheng to initiate a timely forum and bring unified support to his friend, and ours... Jim Abernathy. There's a lot to say about having such good friends. As for folks like Neal Watson... one observation and one suggestion. My observation... "You always get dirty when you sling mud in a white suit." My suggestion... "The best time to eat crow is when it's warm." As for the media... no comment... except to say that the name of the boat is spelled "Shearwater". I myself was certified and have been diving since 1963, and like Eric, Doug and everyone else who has to come to know and respect Jim Abernathy, I too know him to be a man of great integrity, pride and passion. Recently, I had the great fortune to travel with Jim and his dedicated crew to dive at Tiger Beach. It was one of the most memorable and enriching experiences of my life. Even more impressive than viewing Tiger sharks up close... was Jim's observing Jim's unwavering commitment to complete and total safety. Aboard the Shearwater, respect for the sharks, the environment and for each other was (is) paramount to all else. Jim does not compromise at any level, nor does he tolerate any violation of set safety protocols. Before each dive... a detailed dive plan and careful instructions. During each dive, close monitoring by Jim and his crew who demanded respect, cooperation and team unity. And then every night a group debriefing and detailed discussions and constructive criticism of each divers individual performance. More than any other instructor, dive master, or live aboard captain that I have ever met... Jim IS the best and most professional I have ever had the privilege to dive with. And indeed, Jim Abernathy is a true pioneer... and you know what they say about pioneers.... "The pioneers get all the arrows." So while all those detractors, critics and competitors debate the issues of feeding and diving with sharks, let's be mindful of the facts... there are indeed many facts to consider, including the many inherent risks of diving compared to the 35-year safety record Jim has earned. Let such testimonials speak for themselves. Indeed, none of the facts will lessen the grief, but, hopefully, as time allows, they will help shed light on what happened in this tragic instance and how we might learn from it and prevent any such future occurrences. I am certain Jim will be at the forefront of such efforts. After all, accidents do occur in every sport and aspect of our lives... yet, we do not stop living... nor, will we stop diving and interacting with all forms marine life... including sharks. Nor, will we stop diving with JASA. Although I never met Markus Groh... I feel he was the kind of man who might not be so fast to cast blame on others or even the shark that bit him. In fact, most shark bite victims are suprisingly understanding... even forgiving. Many such shark bite victims have become shark advocates working to increase awareness of the species and the need to expand our knowledge and appreciation for them. So, while we all reflect on this tragedy, let's work in a positive fashion to share our combined experience and varied opinions so that we may all learn from this event and truly honor the spirit and memory of Markus Groh. Again, thank you Eric for bringing us together and allowing us to share our sympathies and bring support to those who need it most. Please keep us posted on the facts as they emerge. Stephen D. McCulloch, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-28 01:19:44 My sincere condolences to Markus Groh and his loved ones. I am fortunate enough to have been on four shark diving trips with Jim. I am not a daredevil, I dive with these magnificent and beleaguered animals with a healthy dose of respect for their breathtaking power and capabilities. The reason I am comfortable placing myself in their natural environment is because I am diving from the Shear Water. No one who has sat through Jim’s exhaustive safety briefing and the special Tiger Beach supplement could fail to be aware of the risks involved, but also that the safety of the passengers and crew is the paramount consideration onboard. I never doubt that Jim and the crew are always looking out for me and everyone else in the water and will not hesitate to enforce the rules they have instituted. That this terrible accident has happened on their watch is a tragedy for everyone involved. Jim is one of the most passionate and dedicated advocates for sharks, their sublime beauty and the essential role that they play in the ocean’s ecosystems I have met. I feel privileged to have dived with him and been able to share his enthusiasm and look forward to doing so again. I am grateful for the chance to express my support for him and everyone at JASA at such a difficult time. Emma Quilliam, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-27 23:45:29 I am forwarding my message to George Burgess, International Shark Attack Files, related to misrepresentation of Jim Abernethy's operation as conducting "shark-feeding" dives. I am disturbed by the misinformation and castigation of Jim Abernethy by shark experts and the media. I think Jim's supporters have a responsibility to set the record straight and counter these false attacks. Dear Mr. (Dr.?) Burgess, The accidental death of Mr. Groh due to a shark bite injury (or embolism due to rapid ascent) has been widely misreported and Jim Abernethy has been unfairly blamed for this tragedy. You have been quoted frequently in the press as describing his operation as conducting “shark-feeding” dives. As a diver who has participated on a similar trip and supports Mr. Abernethy’s dedication to shark appreciation and efforts to provide safe shark encounters, I must correct you. There is no shark feeding permitted on Jim’s trips. Closed milk crates containing fish parts are lowered into the water and secured at the dive site. The fish scent attracts sharks so that divers can observe/photograph the animals. Divers are instructed to stay away from the crates. This procedure is far safer than other shark dives in the Bahamas, where operators wear chain mail suits and hand feed sharks, inducing a feeding frenzy. On Jim’s dives, the sharks are calm and non-aggressive. Jim is a responsible dive operator and his spotless safety record (until now) reflects his emphasis on safety. You and others are unfairly misrepresenting his operations and doing a disservice to the scientific community, conscientious dive operators, divers and shark conservationists everywhere. I respectfully request that you correct the record and report the facts accurately. Other competitors may have an axe to grind with Jim and take unfair advantage of this opportunity to criticize him. You are a scientist and should be completely objective and avoid sensationalism. Sincerely, Harry A. Kreigh, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-27 22:24:44 Been there. Would go again tomorrow. Jim and his crew are professionals that look after their clients in a passionate and safe manner. I am disappointed to see that some people are aiming to destroy so much good and distort the truth in order to fit their own agenda's. I'd rather be in the water with sharks every day for a year than spend 1 afternoon in the same room with that kind of person. Renz van Delzen, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-27 22:22:50 Every trip on the Shear Water is without a doubt a life changing experience. Allowing shark enthusiast all over the world a chance to follow there hearts and live there dreams. Jim's passion for sharks is felt throughout the boat 24 hrs. a day. His awareness and saftey are amoung the highest in the industry. My body went numb when I received a call about this unfortunate accident. My heart and prayers go out to Markus Groh, his family, Friends and the crew of the Shear Water. I can already see the dive community joining together to morn this tragic loss, to protect this beautiful animal and to continue embracing the dreams of shark divers. To Jim and the crew of the Shear Water, keep your heads up and be strong during this sad time. I am here, as many others, to support and help you any way I can. Bob McNerney
Posted by Shark People on 2008-02-27 17:15:55 This was a tragic event and my heart goes out to Markus Groh, and his family and friends. My heart also goes out to Jimmy and his staff who are also in much pain as they deal with this terrible accident. Shark Diving is an extreme sport and diving with large predatory sharks is always a risk. yet despite all the risks, and the thousands of people who have experienced diving with tigers and bulls and makos there has never been any serious accidents before... till now. I have known Jim for years, and we have not always seen eye-to-eye on things. Yet despite all our disagreements, the one thing we shared was a passion for sharks, and I know that Jimmy always offered a safe and life enriching shark diving experience, where he put the clients safety first. This was an accident, a terrible, terrible accident. Nothing more, and to blame Jimmy or the stye of shark diving he offers to the public would be wrong. Thousands of people surf around the world, and EVERY YEAR - many surfers die, yet the sport is not banned or the athletes made to wear life vests. No they are allowed to go out there and risk their lives for the sport they love every day. Just like surfers who surf, thousands of people interact with sharks every year. This has been going on all over the world for many years now... shark divers have interacted with sharks. This was our sports FIRST, and God willing - our last accident. Our sport should not be banned or confined to a cage because of it. Eli Martinez, Editor SHARK DIVER magazine
Posted by Eli Martinez on 2008-02-27 17:14:36 My name is Capt. Laine Sheridan, and I have been both a friend and colleague of Jim Abernethy for 15 years, also bringing passengers to dive the Bahamas, and to experience amazing sharks in their element. I know what the hell I'm writing about when I say Jim's professionalism, passion for sharks, infectious enthusiasm, and safety standards are all top notch. My heart goes out to the crew of Shear Water, and I know they did their best in a tough situation. Jim has a somewhat larger than life persona, and it is well deserved! He has my full support through this tragic event and I know he will recover and continue to do what he does best. There are not guarantees in life, no activity that is without some inherent risk. Jim Abernethy reminds us life is to be lived on your feet with your eyes wide open, not reclined on the sidelines as a spectator. Laine Sheridan
Posted by laineart on 2008-02-27 15:42:44 I want to speak out my condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Groh. I pray for them that they get all the strength they need in this very difficult and sad time. It seems to me that this was a very tragic and unfortunate accident, and I feel so sorry for Mr. Groh and his family and all people involved. I (together with my brother) did a Hammerhead-/Tigershark expedition with Jim Abernethy onboard the Sheer Water February 2007. It was a fantastic trip with a wonderfull and caring crew and great fellow divers. We did a lot of sharkdiving trips before (e.g. in South Africa), but this was our best. The crew on our trip did their best to ensure safe diving operations. They warned us about all the risks that are inherent when diving along wild and potentially dangerous animals. Jim and his crew shared all the experience they had with these creatures with us. In my humble opinion Jim is maybe the person on this planet with the most experience and knowledge of large oceanic sharks. I can only confirm what Jeffrey Hartog (he was on the trip with us) commented in his message before- the risk involved with the diving was never downplayed, and the crew watched us all the time that we followed the strict rules. In my opinion it was as safe as a dive like this can be. It will never be 100% safe, as nothing in life ever is. Der tragische Tod von Herrn Groh tut mir unendlich leid. Ich bete für Ihn, für seine Familie und all seine Freunde. Mögen sie Stärkung und Trost erfahren. Mein allerherzlichstes Beileid, Stefan Rausch / Austria / Österreich, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-27 14:48:33 First of all also, I would like to add my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. In my thoughts I also wish that by no chance their grieve turns into hate towards sharks. I'm a professional underwater film maker and photographer. My team and I made 4 documentaries about freediving and very close interactions with big sharks. For these 4 documentaries we worked around 10 years on different places in the world, always freediving, not using cages. One of these documentaries (Beyond Fear) was aired by National Geographic world wide. In all our documentaries we portrayed sharks as what they are - predators, that play an important role in the oceans, but by no means man eating machines. Some of our footage was shot on Shear Water. Up to now, we did different 3 trips with Jim and the next one is already booked. From my experience with many operators around the world, I must say that Jim Abernethy is one of the very few shark diving operators in the world that really do care about the safety of "his" divers on his boat. Ralf Kiefner www.ocean-pix.de
Posted by Ramalho on 2008-02-27 11:11:57 I would like to add my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. In my thoughts I wish that by no chance their grieve turns into hate towards sharks. What else can be said about Jim? my husband Ralf and I have been 3 times on board of the Shear Water and the next trip is already planned. On our first trip I thought "how can he make it?! how can Jim have so much enthusiasm on every dive?!" It is contagious! Be aware, not because you will be diving with sharks outside a cage, but because you'll be diving with Jim beside you! You'll get addicted! Not only to the shark dive, but also to Jim's enthusiasm! But before the enthusiasm there were the briefings... safety, safety, safety and safety again. I was underwater, mesmerized... aahhh... wonderful creatures... aahhh... it was not adrenalin. it was endorphin! I WAS HAPPY!! my only fear was that if I broke the safety rules, no dive for me. It is not fair at all to picture Jasa's shark diving as irresponsible. Irresponsibility lies in the media frenzy showing sharks as man eaters and presenting every negative interaction as an bloodthristy attack. I only have positive comments about Jim and the Shear Water crew, their experience and the top quality service they offer their guests, on land and on board. They absolutely know what they are doing and do take care of their guests in a very responsible way. They do care about safety and I'm sure anyone that has been on board of the Shear Water can testify this. I do trust their experience and would not hesitate at all diving again with Jim. Jim Abernethy, my respect and admiration for what you do towards sharks.
Posted by Ramalho on 2008-02-27 10:39:37 May i add my sympathy to the family of Markus Groh for this rare and tragic accident to a diver who clearly shared the love of wildlife so hearteningly expressed by so many posters here. I have enjoyed Jim's unique shark trips over the past four years and learned a great deal each time. Jim's dedication and enthusiasm are totally inspiring, and i am personally convinced that the preparation and management of these encounters is exemplary. As testament to that I can say that I took my son on Shearwater for his 21st bithday present - and he loved it! He will now pass on his admiration of these beautiful animals to his friends and colleagues. This area is one of the few places left in the world where these inceasingly rare animals can still be seen. it is the sharks which are threatened by the greed and stupidity of humans, and Jim has done much to raise their profile. i know this tragedy will have caused him great distress but hope he will not allow opponents to deter him - and long may he continue to educate people and defend his beloved sharks. Pedro and Ben Vieyra
Posted by pvieyra on 2008-02-27 06:52:47 I've known Jim for the last year and can't say enought about the professionalism of his company. He would never put any of his clients knowingly in harm's way. It's truly sad how the media has spun this to look like Jim is reckless and irresponsible and that sharks are mindless maneaters. It seems to me that the majority of the writers of these articles are the ones who are mindless, reckless and irresponsible for publishing such commentary with out the facts. K-C Bonney New Port Richey, FL
Posted by kbonney98 on 2008-02-27 06:44:47 I would like to extend my sympathies to the family of Markus Groh. I believe it is imperative that the facts concerning this tragedy are fully evaluated before any judgements are passed. The people who did Jim's shark trips (including me) did so from choice. Jeremy Stafford-Deitsch.
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-27 04:45:06 I had the good fortune of diving on the Shear Water in 2005. From the moment I met Jim Abernethy, I was impressed with his professionalism, his love for sharks and the environment, his concern for our safety and well being aboard the boat. The trip was amazing, and one of my most favorite memories. On one particularly wonderful dive, I ran out of room on my compact flash card. Foolishly ignoring Jim's directive, I started chimping away, deleting some of the non-keepers to get some more room. I distinctly remember feeling a poke and looking up to see Jim giving me the same look my sixth grade teacher gave me when I got caught doing something I shouldn't be doing. On a different dive, late in the day, I was the only diver in the water other than Grey (one of Jim's crew members). I was photographing a large Tiger Shark in front of me, when I heard a tapping sound. I looked over to see Grey giving me a very quick set of signals that basically meant "start paying attention, and look behind you". And of course, behind me was another Tiger Shark. Grey was well trained, and to me, it was obvious that Jim stressed safety during the training of his crew. These of course are just small example of the kind of care that Jim puts into his work. (Work isn't even really the right word as Jim clearly doesn't think of it as work - passion would describe it better). I did not know My Groh. I too would like to extend my condolences to his family and friends. The world of people who love sharks is a small one, and to lose one of those people is especially tragic. Chris Parsons http://chrisparsons.net/
Posted by Cp on 2008-02-27 00:07:58 My thoughts go out to family of Markus Groh in such an unfortunate event. I think this tragedy is really being felt world-wide. The Shearwater was one of the main platforms for a recent film we made regarding the world's misconceptions of sharks, REQUIEM. We've done many shark dives all over the world - and no other experience comes close to what you get with JASA. People who go on his shark trips, go because they truly love sharks, want to learn more about them and get closer to them. Onboard, safety comes first and the crew from JASA is very serious about it. I can't thank JASA enough for the incredible moments I've had on their boat and believe Jim Abernathy to be a very important ambassador for sharks across the globe. This is a very sad day. Much Aloha to Markus' friends and family, Bryce Groark LivingOceanProductions.com
Posted by brycegroark on 2008-02-26 23:30:02 Markus Groth was a very special person who choose to persue his passsion for the interaction with on of the most beautiful species on our wonderful planet, the shark. His passion was evedent in the joy he expressed when in the water with our friends. It is a tragic loss, however, he would want us all to continue with our efforts to protect all marine life. Our hearts and souls are with you Jim.
Posted by Sloar on 2008-02-26 21:46:32 I wish to express my sympathy to the family of Markus Groh and am sorry about this loss of life. Additionally, I wish to offer support to Jim Abernathy and JASA. I have been a scuba diver for more than 25 years and have dived with dozens of different dive operations. I can confidently state that Jim Abernathy is one of the most qualified dive operators with whom I've done scuba. I spent 2 weeks aboard the Shear Water on 2 separate JASA shark expeditions. During that time, I knew Jim Abernathy and his staff to be qualified dive professionals who led every dive with safety in mind. I am sincerely sorry about this sad accident. Importantly, I urge the diving community to support divers'opportunity to continue to participate in open water shark trips as I have.
Posted by James T on 2008-02-26 21:08:02 Like everyone, my heart goes out to the family and friends of Markus Groh. I am deeply sorry for your loss. There are really no words that can properly express the degree to which this tragedy has saddened the shark diving community. For many of us shark divers there is no greater joy than being in the water with our beloved sharks. We live for it. We choose it. The most gratifying feeling is having that "moment" with a beautiful, wondrous shark. It's indescribable and incomparable. We do not dive with sharks for a simple adrenaline rush or to thrill seek, but to realize a connection with nature that few people take the time to experience on land. It is our passion and it cannot be caged. We eagerly and thoughtfully accept reasonable risk to be close to sharks such as those found at Tiger Beach and the surrounding sites. I didn't know Markus, but I can only imagine that he took this trip because he shared these sentiments. Not disregarding the tragic result, I hope those close to him understand the courage it takes to follow one's passion. I was fortunate enough to dive with JASA on the Shear Water this past January. It was the best time of my life. As an avid shark enthusiast I had craved having intimate shark encounters like that since I was a young girl. Diving with sharks is an privilege not to be taken lightly. Prior to any diving, Jim and his crew emphasized safe shark diving practices and procedures. Naturally we ultimately understood we were entering the realm of the unpredictable (not unlike everyday life) and we did so of our own volition. Everyone diving with Jim does. Jim is committed to human and shark safety and to brand him anything but professional, mindful and conscientious is a gross misjudgment. I've spent time with him discussing at length his adoration for all wildlife. Above all, Jim's regard for sharks and shark conservation is inspiring and contagious. I am grateful to him for all he does in the shark world. I say without hesitation that I fully support Jim and JASA. I will take this trip again at the next possible opportunity. I realize that not everyone is a "shark person" and therefore cannot appreciate the depth of emotion derived from diving with these amazing creatures. I respect a person's lack of interest in sharks or shark diving, but not ignorant reactions or irresponsible spreading of half-truths or complete lies about shark "attacks". It is even more reprehensible and disturbing to see slanderous, erroneous comments made to the press about Jim by his competitors. A Benjamin Franklin quote comes to mind: "Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools talk because they have to say something." Once again I extend my condolences to the Groh family. I wish you strength and peace as you come to terms with this very sad accident. We salute you, Markus. heidi
Posted by sharkdiverheidi on 2008-02-26 20:41:10 I am deeply sorry to learn of this tragic accident and my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Markus Groh. My thoughts and prayers are also with Jim Abernethy and the entire crew at JASA who run a first class dive operation. For so many years Jim and his crew have been pioneers in developing unique marine wildlife encounters and sharing them with people worldwide. Their commitment to safety has been paramount. Jim’s efforts have benefited legions of divers who have had positive, extraordinary experiences that have led to a greater understanding of animals that are so often misunderstood. I for one am thankful for Jim’s work. Brian Skerry, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-26 20:22:45 I am very saddened to hear of the loss of Markus Groh and would like to offer my sympathy to his family and friends. I also hope Jim, the Shear Water crew and everyone else at JASA is bearing up ok in light of this tragedy. I cannot speak highly enough of Jim and his crew. I spent a week on the Shear Water last February and without question it was the most incredible dive trip I have been on, by a long shot. What really stands out is Jim's incredible passion for what he does. His dedication and enthusiasm for sharks, concern for their plight and concern for the safety of his guests is beyond any doubt. He is probably the most inspirational person I have ever met and his infectiousness totally wears off on you. Not once did I have any fear on the trip, only respect and admiration for these wonderful creatures. I had planned the trip as a one-off, however the experience has led me to book another trip for later this year and I can fully appreciate why guests just keep coming back for more. The media's reaction to this tragic accident is depressingly predictable, and I think those of us who have been on Jim's trips and who love sharks may all yet have a role to play in ensuring JASA's continued operation. Ben Arthur
Posted by arfy on 2008-02-26 18:35:56 I wish the family of Markus Groh, his friends and the crew of the Shear Water well as the deal with this very unfortunate accident. I had the chance of a life time to dive with Jim in January. I will remember the wonders of this trip for the rest of my life. Jim and his crew are the most professional operation I have ever dived with. Their dedication to safety is the highest I have ever experienced. His pre-dive "briefing" lasted several hours as he meticulously instructed and prepared us for the dives ahead. His attention to safety did not end here. During and after each dive he continued to observe and instruct us on ways to improve. If you don't follow Jim's rules of safety, you're simply not allowed to dive. Jim's passion for safety is only equaled by his passion for growing awareness and conservation of sharks. Diving with Jim is one of the very few ways to experience the beauty and majesty of the creatures. They are being killed off at a rate unprecedented in the history of the world. Jim is at the forefront in efforts to save sharks. The media has described Jim’s dive trips as divers seeking thrills by jumping into chum filled waters with man eating sharks. This could not be further from the truth. The dives are not chaotic and the sharks swim by you with no interest in biting or eating you. I did not get a rush, but I did come away with a true love, greater understanding and respect for these creatures. While I have grown to expect the type of media reaction to this event that we have, I was shocked and saddened by the ignorant harmful statements of Neal Watson of the “Bahamas Diving Association” who boasts 36 members strong. I expect more from people in his field. What motivates him to perpetuate the ignorance surrounding the true nature of sharks? I did not count myself among the shark conservationists prior to meeting and diving with Jim. I do now.
Posted by brettheinrichs on 2008-02-26 17:10:27 My condolences to the friends and family of Markus Groh, as well as to Jim and his staff. We are all affected when an accident happens and my heart goes out to everyone involved. The trip I did on Shear Water with Jim and his fantastic crew was an experience of a lifetime. I've recommended it to so many other people. I don't think I can put my feelings into better words than what has already so eloquently been said here already. This is a wonderful tribute to Markus and I hope a message to the media. In spite of the risk, I would much rather jump into a chum filled ocean full of sharks any day, than to drive on the freeways in LA. I doubt that the media will ever really understand why. Bonnie Pelnar http://www.underwatercolors.com
Posted by underwatercolours on 2008-02-26 16:38:25 The pointing of fingers, extension of gossip and "well, I heard..." comments only add to the tragedy to Markus Groh and his family. With that said, all who know Jimmy and his crew realize that this hits them hard. I've had the delight of two dedicated shark trips with him (via David Haas). To echo the comments of many before me, safety was always his #1 Priority, and no one on his trips would have had any reason to think otherwise. Our sadness for the Groh family and Jimmy and his crew should be limitless; but if we allow facts and logic enter our analysis, then we may see this for what it is and not the emotional hand wringing and finger pointing others wish to make it. The ultimate tragedy of this incident would be if Jimmy and JASA would be deprived of the opportunity to educate the masses of the mystique and beauty of our splending brothers and sisters under the sea. The lesson to remember is accidents happen and diving is a risky sport, and, on occasion, people die for reasons of which we mere mortals have no control. As for me, a day diving, and even if I die, is better than a nursing home. My prayers are with the Groh family and Jimmy and his crew. On-On. Jim Palmquist
Posted by SharkDancer on 2008-02-26 15:25:58 I would like to add my support for Jim Abernathy and JASA. Having lead four trips on the Shearwater, bringing with me some of my closest friends I cannot say enough about the level of safety that Jim Abernathy has taken over the years to make sure that all his passengers have a safe and enjoyable experience diving with these top predators. We all know that there are risks. I am dismayed however over the inferences made by the media and those who would do ill by Jim Abernathy mistaking his good natured attitude toward one of recklessness. Anyone who has been on one of his trips will testify to the exceptionally high level of safety he demands of his crew and his passengers. The Shearwater safety record is the hallmark of his reputation. The passenger list for the Shearwater reads of a who's who in the field of underwater photography and video from around the world. Most of the best shark images and underwater video ever seen on television and in cinema have been taken off the Shearwater. Jim Abernathy's knowledge base of shark behavior is unmatched. There are few, if any, who have more experience diving with sharks, or the ability to set a stage for viewing these wonderful animals. Inaccurate remarks of blood and chum in the water are just that. There is no question that this unprovoked attack which happened yesterday is a tragedy and terribly unfortunate. I cannot imagine the grief the family must going through at this time, and can only offer my condolences. I do know Jim Abernathy's heart and share his sorrow for this turn of misfortune. Clark Miller, via web
Posted by Matt Segal on 2008-02-26 14:18:43 Everyone who has dived with Jim knows his passion for safety is greater even than his passion for sharks. On every dive I made with him during what was one of the most exhilarating and rewarding trips I have ever made during a long career of diving, his vigilance and concern for the safety of his clients was always his first priority. He continually counseled and instructed us on the safest practices, and he monitored the behavior and expertise of every diver in the water to ensure his advice was being followed. His knowledge of shark behavior is second to none and cannot think of anyone else I would rather put my trust in on a dive trip that included encounters with these remarkable creatures. We all feel an enormous sympathy for Markus Groh's family and friends, and it would be wrong to make any comments about the circumstances of this awful accident without all the facts. However, whatever the analysis concludes, I feel confident that it will transpire that no negligence by Jim or his crew will have contributed to this tragedy. Nick Jackson Fluent Communications www.fluent-communications.com
Posted by NickJ on 2008-02-26 14:04:53 I would like to extend my sincere condolences and prayers to the family of Markus Groh. I am deeply saddened by the loss of his life. This is a very sad time for the dive community. As a dive instructor for over 30 years anf former rescue instructor, I am aware of the dangers of diving and potential loss of life due to a myriad of reasons. I nearly lost a friend in a shark attack on the Sonoma County coast while diving years ago. It could have been me that day. I mention these past occurences because I truly believe that no matter how safe and how protective we are in our diving practices, unfortunate situations occur beyond our control. Life has no guarantees on when and how we will leave this world. Having said this, I have been on the Shearwater with Jim Abernethy and his crew on 3 occasions and plan to go back again this May for another great shark diving trip. I do this because Jim is one of the best captains and divers I have ever dived with and one of the safest. He is adamant about his guests adhering to strict criteria for entry, exit and behavior in the water to respect the ocean and sharks. We know when we enter the water we are at risk. It is our choice to be there. In my 3 encounters with numerous sharks on his trips and successful, fun filled adventures, I never felt fear of the marine world, just healthy respect and awe. I felt more fear of Jim clobbering me or throwing me off the boat if I was a sloppy diver or conducted myself unsafely in the water. He makes it crystal clear that he has our best interest at heart and cares a great deal about us and the sharks we encounter. I wholeheartedly support Jim's operation and the continuation of his shark diving trips. He and his crew are one of the most hardworking and honest divers I know. His operation has helped many professional divers understand shark behavior, film and shoot them to share footage with others and help conserve not only sharks, but all marine life. It is wrong that the media and certain organizations badmouth and misrepresent Abernethy Adventures and shark diving. As divers we need to support Jim and his crew at this very trying time. Dr.Virginia Bria splash4us@yahoo.com
Posted by vbria on 2008-02-26 13:43:45 My heartfelt sympathies to Markus Groh's family and friends. The fact he wanted to experience this special opportunity probably says more than we all will ever know about him. As far as Jimmy I can't add too much more than what has been said. Passionate environmental advocate for sharks as a species, over the top in sharing his knowledge and observations and always with a deep, deep concern for doing it as safely as possible. Safety briefing on my hosted trips since 2002 have always been detailed and thorough. I truly cannot think of anything else that realistically can be added..... My sincere wish is that facts concerning this accident and sharks will trump sensationalism. And we will always be allowed to keep observing and sharing these marvelous creatures Jim has introduced us all to with the world through images and personal stories. I for one will continue to support JASA and these adventures. David Haas Haas Photography Inc. www.haasimages.com
Posted by dhaas on 2008-02-26 12:32:48 I have participated in two Shearwater trips to the Bahamas over the last year with Jim Abernathy, and found the attention to detail, regarding the safety of the experience to be exceptional. Every detail of the dive experience is explained in the extensive predive briefing, and more importantly, continuously monitored throughout the trip, on every dive. It should also be emphasized that the inherrent risk of this activity is made clear to divers, and never downplayed. In my experience every detail of the dives were monitored by Jim and his crew, and we were always debriefed on every move we made that was not as instructed, no matter how small. I was chastised quite firmly once on one dive when I forgot to wear my dive gloves. Jim is quite adamant that no part of the diver is exposed, and only dark colors are worn so that the sharks are not attracted in any way to the diver as they might be to other prey in the water. Jeffrey Hartog, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-26 12:29:40 The sudden death of Markus Groh is tragic and I would like to join those who have extended their condolences to his family. I hope that my comments in response to the usual media frenzy demonizing sharks and shark-diving operators will not be taken as any attempt to belittle their loss and their grief. Without knowing the specifics on the accident I cannot comment on it directly, but it is worth remembering that a certain element of perceived danger is part of the attraction of extreme sports and that all divers on the Shear Water were made well aware that there is some risk involved in interacting with large wild animals, and explicitly accepted this risk. Many of us who grew up in sanitized suburban settings experience cravings for raw wilderness experiences, with all the risks that are entailed. There are a number of very attractive and interesting blennies in the Bahamas, yet no one is offering blennie tours, because there is no demand for it. Having said that, I can state my opinion that there is considerably less risk involved in diving with sharks in the Bahamas than in commuting on I-95 in south Florida, or in many other mundane activities in which people die every day without the thrill of viewing wild predators. The fact that this is the first serious incident in tens of thousands of shark dives by Abernethy's customers should be taken as convincing evidence that this is not an extremely dangerous activity - which I think is confirmed by the record of the other Bahamian shark diving operators over a period of more than 20 years with hundreds of thousands of shark dives conducted. There are those who say that no wild animal should ever be fed, and I respect their opinions, but do not agree with such an absolute rule. While feeding bears, raccoons, pigeons moray eels, alligators, or sea turtles certainly creates public health and safety hazards, the same cannot necessarily be said about feeding migrating songbirds, chipmunks, caribou, and sharks. Sharks are much smarter than reptiles and readily learn to distinguish divers from bait. I have dived with bull sharks in both baited and unbaited situations, and felt much safer in the baited situation where they had been trained to take fish from a diver. While in an ideal world it would be better not to interfere in any way with the natural ecosystem, Jim Abernethy is one who recognizes that the only way to prevent sharks from being exterminated is to create a constituency for their protection by showing divers that sharks are not continually on the hunt for human flesh and much prefer their natural food sources, and he has in fact been very successful in fostering shark conservation advocates. The shark diving operations in the Bahamas not only produce a constituency for protecting sharks worldwide, but are also directly responsible for saving the sharks in the Bahamas. Longlining for sharks there was only stopped due to the economic force of shark tourism. If shark diving in the Bahamas is ended due to this accident, it will become a double tragedy because the end result will be the annihilation of a vital part of the marine ecosystem. Jim Abernethy runs shark tours, not because there is more money to be made in them than in blennie tours, but because he is passionate about sharks. He loves sharks and he loves introducing people to his favorite animals. He is also tireless in his efforts to avoid incidents that would spoil that relationship. Only a few weeks ago I received an e-mail from a friend who had participated in a cruise on the Shear Water and expressed his frustration at how Jim was constantly prodding him to look around and be alert whenever he would put his eye to his viewfinder. I did two trips on Shear Water and can also recall getting an annoying poke from Jim whenever I would take my eyes off the sharks to look down at my camera settings. Let's hope that the media frenzy will quickly abate and that the facts of the accident are brought out so that it can be analyzed in a rational way to help prevent more such accidents in the future. Whatever the details of this accident however, it will not change the overall statistics that show that most injuries from sharks in the Bahamas are associated with spearfishing in spite of larger numbers of people engaged in shark-viewing tourism, and that most scuba diving injuries in the Bahamas are likewise unrelated to shark-viewing. Doug Perrine, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-26 12:25:42 This is an extremely tragic incident. I would like to express my condolences to the family of Markus Groh. At this time we should not try to lay blame or demonize sharks. Sharks are wild, unpredictable animals that require respect and there are obvious risks when entering in the water to engage with them. To my knowledge this is the first fatal baited shark dive. Having the opportunity to join Jim Abernethy on the M/V Shearwater for several shark trips to the Bahamas, I can say he is professional, responsible and dedicated to sharing and conserving the underwater world. This incident is truly tragic for all. At such a time, I urge the diving community to unite to express support for the crew of and divers on the M/V Shearwater and especially the victim’s family. Neil Hammerschlag / http://www.neil4sharks.org Send via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-26 12:25:00 My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. I did not know him personally, but am deeply saddened to learn of his death. I have known Jim Abernethy since first shark diving on the M/V Shear Water with Jim in 2005. I consider Jim to be one of the most conscientious shark diving operators in the world today. His pre-dive briefings are among the most thorough I have ever heard. Jim's concern for and attention to divers' safety during the shark dives was paramount. Because of the exposure to wild sharks in their natural habitat offered to so many divers over the years, Jim's shark diving operation has contributed immeasurably to a better understanding and appreciation of these vital apex predators. I would not hesitate to take part in a shark diving experience with Jim Abernethy. His shark diving operation is one of the best in my experience. Mary Lynn Price DiveFilm.com
Posted by Mary Lynn on 2008-02-26 11:39:37 I never got to meet Markus Groh or his family, but my condolences go out to his near and dear ones. It is unfortunate that he is a victim of statistics. I'm very sorry that this happened. I do know Jim Abernethy and his staff well. My heart also goes out to them - also victims of statistics. The press having a runaway field day with this unfortunate accident or Jim Abernethy's detractors (apparent Shark Experts or not, I don't care!) issuing more asinine press statements is evidence of their own statistical numbness, or acting in their own self interests. Beware! It as at unfortunate times like these when the entire industry has to come together. Bickering, finger pointing, issuing ridiculous press statements is acting upon one's own self interests - it cannot be good for the industry. I think it behooves all of us to think clearly and in a rational manner. Let us wait for the facts to come out and let us keep in perspective the past safety records that Jim and other Shark operators have put up over several years. Those general observations/opinions aside, I should add that I dove with Jim Abernethy several times on his Shark trips, and have also traveled with him to other locations in the world. I'm sure that any traveler on his boat, as I, would attest the safety briefings we were all given before departure and also en-route to the magnificent shark diving spots. I know of nobody else who cares more about people having fun in an environment of safety than Jim. Keeping in mind that long safety record that Jim Abernethy and his staff have put up over several years, and my own personal and positive experience on the Shearwater, I fully endorse shark diving with Jim. Shame on the detractors, for they act in their own self interests! Unequivocally signed, - al vinjamur
Posted by alvinjamur on 2008-02-26 11:22:46 Having the vacation of a lifetime end with death is beyond words. I can only offer my condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. I have made only one trip with Jim so far but three more are planned. The shark-dives with him and his crew were by long and far the best dives of my life. The knowledge of the behaviour of different species of sharks towards divers aboard the Shear Water and the safety briefings were exceptional. No one can ever have total control over any situation in life but the crew and especially Jim made diving with apex ocean predators as safe as humanly possible. I was shocked to read about the accident, but also at how many people that should know better are pointing fingers at Jim without even knowing any facts at all. His love of sharks and his commitment to safety in letting others experience the beauty of these animals are exemplary. Klaus-Peter Harter
Posted by bahamamama on 2008-02-26 10:57:40 Once a diver has been part of the Shearwater experience their fascination with sharks becomes something of an ethereal experience - a consuming passion - often difficult to articulate to people who have yet to go diving with Jim and his team. Safety is always their first priority - their experience - their understanding - their focus - that willingness to "Get the shot" - to go the extra mile. The constant lookout for every ones safety & well being is always there - not just now and then - always. Thats what sets the team at JASA head & shoulders above any other operation I have ever dived with, and the reason that I and others like me come back year after year - its like nothing else - anywhere else ! My condolences to the family & friends of Markus Groh , and passengers and crew on board the Shearwater. THE DIVERS PRAYER Almighty God, Our Heavenly Father, we, who descend into the depths of the seas, beseech Thee to protect and guide us in Your Aquatic Kingdom. We pray that Thee can find a worth in those who search the waters of the Seven Seas to increase the knowledge of man, to seek and understand the vast mysteries of our past as well as that abundant world which lives below the surface of the water, and to enjoy this new found world and all it has to offer. As we small people work below , Dear God, watch over us and help us to return safely to our earth-world. But, Heavenly Father, should we perish in this watery-world, we beg that Thee will forgive our earthly sins, cleanse our hearts and souls, and lead us to Thy Celestial Kingdom to serve Thee forever and ever. Amen
Posted by pmooney on 2008-02-26 10:52:22 It's remarkable to read the thoughts that people have posted here and to truly begin to appreciate the extent to which Jim and his team have impacted peoples' lives. My first trip on the Shear Water last August was a profound experience, and one that has changed my life. It is tragic when someone dies prematurely and I have no doubt that Markus Groh's death will leave a void in the lives of those he loved. My sympathies are with them, but I hope that over time, those who knew him come to realise that he died in the process of doing something wonderful, that far too few people will ever experience in their lives. The media frenzy and hysteria that is being spun up by the mainstream press comes from ignorance and fear. Their business is to maximise readers for their advertisers and anything that plays on peoples' irrational fears is fair game. But it's remarkable to contrast the comments of people who know and respect Jim and who have been on his trips with those that choose to snipe from the sidelines. I have not read/heard a single negative comment from anyone who has been on these trips. That alone, speaks volumes. We all make choices in life. Some choose to pursue experiences that have the ability to affect us profoundly, others don't. But when I die, I hope that my ashes are scattered at Tiger Beach, or Carcarius Cut, or the End of the World...All places where I can say that I truly felt what it means to be alive. Thank-you Jim for taking me there.
Posted by martininflorida on 2008-02-26 10:36:43 What tragic news. I would like to add my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Markus. I did not know him personally, but I am sure we’d have been friends had I met him on a Shear Water trip. I never met anyone on those trips, who didn’t become friends with. JASA trips just attract those sorts of folks. I am also sad for the impact that this accident might have on JASA, shark diving in the Bahamas and ultimately the shark populations in that part of the world. It is no secret that the tourism value of diving with sharks has protected the sharks of the Bahamas, where almost elsewhere in the oceans man has slaughtered them in their millions. I would also like to add that I have greatly enjoyed my trips on the Shear Water and felt that safety was always top of JASA’s agenda. Their experience has taught me much about sharks and Jim’s enthusiasm has certainly converted me into a shark lover. But this is not a love and hugs relationship. The philosophy I left with (and keep coming back for more with) is a love and respect for this magnificent wild animals. JASA has enabled a great many people to develop such a relationship with sharks and helping these much maligned creatures. This is not only through people going on trips, but also through the photographs and videos taken from the Shear Water. On my own small level, I have had photos from JASA trips in both my books. And on much wider reaching level, Jim has taken the likes of IMAX, National Geographic and the BBC Natural History Unit out to film and photograph the sharks of the Bahamas. Their productions have reached millions and undoubtedly changed many people’s perceptions of sharks to love and respect. Tragically, in every pursuit, accidents can happen. Once again I would like pass on my deepest sympathy to the friend and family of Markus. Sincerely, Alexander Mustard
Posted by Dr. Alex Mustard on 2008-02-26 10:25:37 Peace and Love to the family and friends of Markus Groh. How tragic Mr. Groh's holiday turned to such a horrible accident. I too have spent several weeks at sea with Jim and his crew on the Shearwater and the carefully run operation is uniquely exceptional. I hope and expect JASA to weather the hailstorm of criticism. Those of us that take the "calculated risk" to dive and photograph these bewildering creatures need to unite in the name of adventure and conservation. Where will the zealots stop? Will they next go after spear fishing?? I can see them making the tired argument that spear-fishing perpetuates abnormal behavior in these animals and dangerously escalates the association of food with divers/humans. Some won't be satisfied until everyone is bound-up on their couch staring at CNN like zombies. As many have said, "accidents happen". We certainly need to learn lessons from incidents like this in a larger effort to safely coexist with these wonderful creatures but we need a measured response not an opportunistic overreaction. Some critics of Jim's "baiting" practices are truly convicted in their position and I respect that; however, in my opinion, many are either ignorant or have something to gain by attacking Jim (e.g. they are competitors to JASA). Jim Abernathy is a pioneer. For me, a trip with Jim brings great joy, excitement and camaraderie. Like other forms of Eco-Tourism, I see Jim and his organization as important cogs in the conservation of majestic animals... Sincerely, Scott Marshall
Posted by H2Oplanet on 2008-02-26 10:19:47 I would like to send out my prayers and my heartfelt sympathy to Markus Groh, his family, and his friends. I have worked with Jim for three years and have been on countless Shear Water trips. Over these years I have observed, in and out of the water, these majestic animals. Jim's operation has always been ran with safety on his mind. Despite all of JASA's safety practices and briefings an accident can occur. Just like and accident can occur in your car on the way home from work. On many occasions, Jim has changed things over the years to develop the diving practices into safer procedures. Every week I see new and repeat customers excited to go on expeditions. Many know me before I can recall their name. In my opinion Jim does everything he can to make diving with his company safe. He also takes great caution with guests to get them close to these large sharks, by giving guidelines, rules, and long briefings. I have a close bond with Jim and stand by his side in support.
Posted by MANCHA on 2008-02-26 08:48:22 I too would like to add my condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. I hope you are able to get through this difficult time by remmbering the fun and happy times you spent with Markus. My thoughts are with you. I have been fortunate to have been on numerous trips with Jim Abernethy and his Scuba Adventures team. Jim's enthusiasm for diving and the sharks is infectious. I still remember my first trip with him. I was the only non-professional photographer on the trip. But, what I remember most was the questions that I was asked before being allowed to join the trip. I was called and grilled about my dive ability, comfort level with sharks in close proximity and on and on. What impressed me most was this unwavering dedication to safety before I was allowed to join the trip. This also allowed me to feel comfortable in my upcoming experience. Needless to say I have been fortunate to have been on many more trips and become truly passionate about sharks as a result of my experiences with JASA and more specifically Jim. I remember the first trip that my wife joined us. We were in the water at Tiger Beach and my wife had worked up the courage to get in the water to dive with the Tiger sharks. While in the water Jim noticed her apprehension and made a point of going over to her and spending the entire dive at her side which comforted her and made her experience truly memorable. I could go on with many more stories with a huge smile on my face. Jim has become a great friend and I hope I have learned to speak to others about sharks with only a fraction of the passion he demonstrates. The sharks of this world are in a much better position due to the education and experiences Jim provides in a safe and comfortable setting. My thoughts are also with the crew and Jim as I know this is a very difficult time for them. They care deeply about their passengers and the sharks. Cheers Todd Mintz
Posted by yahsemtough on 2008-02-26 08:41:54 I personally did not know Markus Groh, but I can feel quite certain that if I had met him on Jim's boat we would have quite quickly developed a sense of camaraderie, and become friends, as I did with all the divers I have met on his boat before. Not only do divers on the Shearwater automatically share a love for sharks and diving just by being there, but with Jim as the enthusiastic team leader, by the end of the trip, the divers have become part of a big family who have shared Jim's love for these remarkable animals. I hope that somehow my condolences can be transmitted to the family of Markus
Posted by loftus on 2008-02-26 08:05:25 Markus, I miss you! Your perfect knowledge of the Latin language,your abilities as a lawyer, your being a friend and a colleague. Your straight forwardness, this perfect mix of Austrian tradition and modern thinking. You reminded me a lot of my favourite uncle, you know.......... We will do the best we can for Antonia. Be sure you will be in our hearts as long as we live. Accoring to your and my belief we will meet again.... Regina
Posted by Regina on 2008-02-26 06:36:16 I also like to present my deepest condolences for Markus Groh and his family in Vienna although I did not know him personally. But since I was several times on the Shear Water myself and planned to participate this year again, I can fully understand the enthusiasm and addiction a diver and photographer (even when done this as a passionate hobby) can have to swim and watch these beautiful animals under water in a diver-friendly environment such as the Bahamas water are. I remember very well the first time out there in 2004 with Jimmy and his crew who made everything thinkable to share this adventure in safety and comfort, and after a serious and deep instruction and removing all white and yellow elements from each ones dive gear we went into the waters on Tiger Beach. It didn’t take a long time until the first tigers and lemon sharks showed up and I was amazed how the behaviour of these large predators was well organized and not threatening at all. I also remember that we were given a stick (like a ski stick) to put it into the ground and having better control from the surge of waters. Once “Emma” (or was it “Baby Cake”?) took my stick away to investigate or play with it and after a while she gave it back to me, which was just amazing. I never felt scared but also never lost respect from these predators. Dr. Juerg Vonwil, Switzerland http://www.jvpictures.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.ShowItem&g2_itemId=1861
Posted by buddy on 2008-02-26 06:29:01 My heart is filled with sadness, compassion, love, and fear... all at the same time. Sadness - and sympathy for the friends and family of Markus Groh. Mein herzlichstes und tiefstes Beileid.... Compassion - for all involved. For the mourning friends and family; for Jim, and the crew and staff of JASA; for all my friends and colleagues who are working hard to help the media refrain from sensationalizing things; ... and of course, for the sharks. This is a challenging time for us all. Love - and appreciation for Jim and his dedication and commitment to education and conservation. Fear - for the sharks of the world, many of which are endangered. While "we" know better, I fear that opportunistic media will attempt to manipulate this tragic accident to reinforce inaccurate and damaging stereotypes of sharks as monsters. I have been championing Shark Conservation for several years and have met an incredible number of fellow "shark geeks"... but none compare to Jim Abernethy. In addition to being one of the most personable, caring, and vibrant individuals I have ever met, he has more in-water and practical experience with sharks than most people could possibly imagine. Safety is paramount to him, and he is as unwaivering in his commitment to safe diving practices as he is in his integrity and to the conservation of the sharks that he loves. I was first inspired to start COARE after diving with and filming tiger sharks and bull sharks in Fiji, and have had several experiences with these (and other) species around the world. While I already knew these sharks were not bloodthirsty killers, I felt safer with JASA than during any past shark encounter dive anywhere. Jim and his crew irrefutably have the right experience and attitude to lead these trips. During a recent short week aboard the M/V Shear Water with Jim, I learned more about sharks and shark safety through Jim's vast experiences than I had in all my previous experiences combined. Christopher Chin Executive Director, The Center for Oceanic Awareness, Research, and Education (COARE)
Posted by deepdivr on 2008-02-26 06:05:04 First let me say, that my heart goes out to the family and friends of Markus Groh. Words cannot express the sadness I feel. While it may be of little solace in this time of sorrow, Markus died following his passion. Sadly, many will now use Markus’s death as an opportunity to posture themselves and further their own agenda. I can only ask that before we all start passing judgment, that we consider the effects of our words. While I have dove with Jim Abernathy more times than I can remember, I was not on the Shear Water when this tragic accident occurred. I don’t know all of the facts, and at this point, few people do. I do know that Jimmy places safety over EVERYTHING. I also know that anyone who has been in this business long enough runs the risk of a tragic accident. No matter how safety conscious you are. Let’s wait until the facts are in. Jim Abernathy has an incredible record for safety. I know that I would dive with Jimmy tomorrow without hesitation. We should offer our support to family and friends of Marcus Groh, who died doing something he loved. My Sincerest Regards Rest in Peace, Marcus Groh From Keith Olaisen, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-26 03:19:39 I’m thinking about the families impacted, about Jim and his team. I’ve been diving since 1984 - and have seen a lot of great things underwater - and have met a ton of passionate people. One of the most passionate people I know when it comes to diving, protecting the ocean and the creatures who live there is Jim Abernethy. You see it in his photography, you see it in the way he interacts with his customers. I was lucky enough to make two voyages on the Shear Water last year while working on a documentary to help protect sharks. I’ve been in the water with Tigers, Bulls and Lemons - they are some of the best experiences of my life - and it helped open my eyes in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I knew what I was doing and I knew I was with a world class team. My greatest hope is that people will look at the overall facts and the record - and continue to think about the many people this will impact. From George Schellenger, via web
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-26 03:19:15 First, I want to express my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Markus Groh. Perhaps my wife said it best when she commented that if I were to meet my end at sea doing what I love, it would be far better than many of the alternatives. Still, a life cut short through unforeseen events is always tragic, especially to those left behind to mourn the sudden loss. My thoughts are with the Groh family in this difficult time. My thoughts are also with Jimmy, and the staff and crew of JASA. I’ve dove with Jim on three separate shark expeditions, and I have always been impressed by the professionalism he has shown and the care he has taken to ensure that divers have exciting yet safe shark encounters. Everyone that chooses to dive with sharks, unfettered by a cage, knowingly chooses to accept some small level of calculated risk for the privilege of swimming freely with these magnificent creatures. I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything, and I’m grateful to have had someone as enthusiastic, knowledgeable and supportive as Jim Abernethy to guide me on some of those adventures. I truly believe that the shark diving methods and practices JASA has developed, refined and employed over the years have served Jim and his guests well. Unfortunately, despite all planning and best intentions, things sometimes happen that are beyond our control, and that’s no one’s fault – they just happen. A message to Jimmy - don’t listen to the naysayers or second-guess what happened or what could have been done differently. I’m sure the upcoming weeks will be difficult, but know that you have a legion of divers out there that consider you a friend – myself among them – and we’ve got your back. You’ve done so much to teach the public about the shark’s critical role in maintaining a healthy ocean ecosystem, and in furthering the goals of shark conservation, and this unfortunate accident should never cast a shadow on the good you’ve done. Finally – I can’t think of anyone I’d rather jump into the shark filled waters with than Jim Abernethy. Paul Krupela San Clemente, CA
Posted by pkrupela on 2008-02-26 02:52:00 First, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Marcus Groh. His loss is an incredibly unfortunate and a startling tragedy. As a member of the Shark Angels film production, I was recently and graciously hosted by Jim Abernethy at Tiger Beach – one of the most magical places on earth. We captured the kind of footage you would only dream of at any other place. Imagine three female divers surrounded by what are known as some of the most dangerous man-eaters, poignantly interacting with dozens of these sharks without the confines of a cage - all the while proving they are not the monsters the media portrays. For those of you who don’t know him, Jim Abernethy is one of the most wonderful and incredible people you will ever meet. He loves sharks more than life itself and delights in sharing his passion safely and responsibly. His passion is contagious as he tirelessly fights to save sharks and conquer the media-generated mistruths. Jim has been diving with sharks for 30 years and has been running trips on the Shear Water for over eight years. His relationship with the sharks, particularly the super models (sharks that come to the beach to swim with divers time and time again) is unbelievable. Over the years, he has gotten to know many different sharks; he has even named them and knows them not only by sight, but by their unique personalities. While some would say this is Jim anthropomorphizing the sharks in an almost romantic way, I think it is just his uncanny ability to observe and spend more time in the water than anyone else with these predatory sharks. He carries a huge responsibility on his broad shoulders – everyone's safety depends on it. And his safety record until this accident has been perfect. On our trip, Jim gave us an extensive dive briefing which thoroughly covered the crucial of aspects one needs to be aware of when diving with sharks. Safety is of the utmost importance to Jim; after all we were diving with large, wild animals. Jim treated these sharks, though not intentionally aggressive towards divers, as predators that need to be respected. I felt so at ease being with him and his amazing crew. Our trip was an experience I will never forget. I sucked tank after tank dry – spending my days in the azure seas, surrounded by a dozen huge tiger sharks and a cast of more than 50 lemon sharks. I found myself wishing a tank of air would last longer than two hours, as I couldn't get enough. It was absolutely breathtaking. Beautiful white sand patterned with wavy ridges that looked like mountains from an airplane window, crystal clear turquoise water with the sun glistening through creating specters of diamonds, and dozens of elegant tiger and lemon sharks gliding around as far as the eye could see in a three dimensional display. The tigers would swim in from all directions, come right up to us and then, glide gracefully over us. Emma (my favorite 14 foot tiger shark) would swim so close overhead, I found myself wanting to stroke her beautiful belly. Her eyes told it all – not once was she nervous or aggressive. After hours in the water, never did I feel threatened or scared. Instead, I was filled with appreciation, wonder, and a deep sense of sadness as I realized sharks like Emma are being killed by the thousands every single day. I will always cherish the opportunity I had to dive with the sharks of Tiger Beach and with the Shear Water crew. I have been on hundreds of dives, spending countless hours in the water with sharks - but this experience far exceeded any other. Jim and the crew were incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and kind. I feel like I have a new family – sharks and humans alike. Sadly, the Bahamas is one of only a few places remaining that people can still go to experience the magnificence of the large, charismatic sharks including Tigers, Bulls, and Hammerheads. A growing number of shark species are approaching extinction, with over 100 million sharks killed each year. The public's irrational fear of sharks (entirely based upon myths and misconceptions), I think, explains our lack of desire to conserve them. I hope that Jim and the Shear Water team can continue to change all that. I urge everyone to go diving with Jim. Anyone can dive with sharks. I am certain once you dive with them, it will shift your thinking – and you will want to save them too. But go quickly, because sadly, they are almost gone from this planet and soon, no one will be able to experience their magnificence. Those of us who have spent time in the water with the sharks of the Bahamas know how shocking and isolated this tragedy truly is. While there is inherent risk in all that we do, the risk of injury let alone death while diving with sharks is incredibly low. In comparison, many other common leisure activities are far more dangerous, including biking, swimming and boating. It is crucial for those of us who have a passion for sharks and for diving to support Jim and other responsible dive operators - and control the media-generated hype aimed at striking fear and doubt into the minds of the public. Allowing this frenzy will only result in more unnecessary shark deaths and a general apathy about what is occurring. At a time when sharks are being chased to extinction... I can still close my eyes and delight in the images I will never forget. I am forever changed and will never forget the precious gift Jim gave me. Julie Andersen Director, Shark Savers Shark Angel
Posted by juliecarla on 2008-02-26 02:13:57 My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of Markus Groh. It is terribly sad that his love of the sea and its majestic creatures ended in such a tragic accident. I have been on three separate trips aboard Shear Water, so I have experienced firsthand what drew Markus halfway around the world. Jim Abernethy and the Shear Water crew provide amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for serious divers to dive with sharks. It is an awesome experience being able to swim with and photograph these graceful, majestic creatures in their natural habitat. I feel indebted to Jim and his crew for providing me with great experiences while on their boat. I have been to most of the "best" dive destinations in the world, and I have never known anyone with more love and excitement for diving - and specifically for sharks - than Jim Abernethy. He is as enthusiastic about seeing sharks on the last dive of a charter as on the first, joining his guests in the water virtually every day. Aside from his enthusiasm, the next thing that strikes you as a guest on Shear Water is Jim's concern for their safety. Of course, part of Shear Water's attraction is the chance to be in the water with sharks, and sharks are wild animals, so they can be unpredictable and entail risk. Jim is obviously an expert on sharks and their behavior, and before allowing divers in the water, he gives by far the most extensive and educational briefings I have ever seen, stressing again and again how important it is for every diver to follow the rules and remain constantly alert underwater. Jim obviously loves sharks, and will quickly chastise any guest who tries to poke, harass or otherwise bother the sharks, but he has also instituted numerous rules and protocols in an attempt to make sure divers on his boat stay safe. Shear Water's many years of successful operation and his high number of return guests (including me) are a testament to Jim's expertise, enthusiasm and care. I have tremendous respect for and am proud to know him. Bruce Yates Seattle, WA
Posted by bmyates on 2008-02-26 01:54:30 I also did not know Markus Groh, but join with many divers and non-divers alike in sharing my sympathies with his family. Like Eric, I cannot pretend to be unbiased in my feelings towards Jim. I worked with him for 3 years in both Palm Beach and the Bahamas, and owe him a huge debt for not only developing my abilities as a photographer and encouraging my career path, but for sharing his passion for the marine environment with me. I have spent countless hours with Jim, and anyone who has met him can attest that his love for the oceans, and particularly sharks, is infectious. I agree with Eric - it's hard not to love Jim. Jim is truly a steward for this fragile resource that we all enjoy, and by safely bringing so many into contact with these beautiful animals he has expanded knowledge about sharks and shark behavior. Many people have said that what is done on the Shear Water cannot be done, or at a minimum cannot be done safely, simply because it has not been done that way in the past. It is that pioneering spirit that makes the trips on Shear Water so special. I would strongly argue that what is done on that ship is extremely safe - despite concerns many divers have upon initially encountering these large sharks, all quickly recognize that safety is the number one priority with the operation. We often met as a crew and discussed ways to make the operation even safer, and anyone who has taken multiple trips over the may years that Jim has been diving with sharks in the Bahamas can attest to the changes that have been made. In the thousands of hours that I have spent in the water with these animals, never have I felt threatened or in danger. Like others who have posted here, I fully support Jim. He is a close friend, and I have tremendous respect for him and the crew of the Shear Water. I wish them the best, and hope that in this difficult time they know that many in the diving community are with them.
Posted by bacripe on 2008-02-26 01:17:14 I do not know Markus Groh but I imagine he shared a common passion for sharks with me and many other divers. He traveled many miles to experience these wonderful creatures. Sadly, an accidental shark bite ended his life. My thoughts and prayers go out to Markus's family and friends. I only hope they they too will be able to understand Markus's passion for sharks and honor him but lending there support to protect sharks which I imagine Markus would have wanted. I have known Jim Abernethy for 4 years now. Jim introduced me to shark diving and I never looked back. Since meeting Jim, I have been on 4 shark expeditions to the Bahamas with him. Each and every trip has been incredibly rewarding. Jim has become a close friend of mine and I have incredibly respect and appreciation for him. Jim is committed to dive safety more so than any operator I have dived with. His shark dive briefing is incredibly thorough. Everyone enters the water understanding the risks and drilled on how they must behave underwater. When a passenger drifts from the rules, Jim wastes no time in taking them aside and correcting their errors. Entertainment is ALWAYS secondary to safety. Jim has introduced thousands of divers to sharks including many species which the media has misrepresented as mindless man-eaters. These divers have gained a greater understanding and appreciation for sharks. They have returned home and shared these wonderful experiences with friends and family. Jim has built friendships around the world. He loves people and animals. He is giving and caring. HIs character and ethics are without question. There is nothing Jim wouldn't do for friend. It is my hope that all those people whose lives Jim has touched will now support him in this difficult time.
Posted by Shawn Heinrichs on 2008-02-26 01:00:07 My condolences go to the family of Markus Groh. Jim and his crew made me step outside of my body and after that feeling just like being born again. That was the feeling I had during my first dive at Tiger Beach. Without his crew and his ongoing efforts to bring people and sharks together many of my images would not have been possible.
Posted by Andi Voeltz on 2008-02-26 00:35:29 First, I'd like to express my condolences to the family of Markus Groh. Accidents like this are terrible and tragic, and his loss will be felt across the industry. I have known Jim Abernethy for 7 years. During the summer of 2002, Jim took me on my first shark dive ever, which completely changed my life. That first experience with sharks caused me to devote my life to capturing the beauty of the underwater realm, and I owe him a great deal for opening up that world to me. I have been on no less than 8 shark diving expeditions on the Shear Water with Jim as valiant leader, and on many more adventures not aboard of the Shear Water. I cannot be said to be unbiased about my feelings about Jim; I love the guy. Nearly everyone I have met who has met Jim loves him. Jim has been in the water with me on probably close to 200 shark dives. That number pales in comparison to the thousands of shark dives he's done with a perfect safety record, until yesterday's unfortunate tragedy. During my time in the water with him, Jim always wanted to have fun, and he seemed to be driven by a need to enjoy life. However, that desire for adventure was always secondary to his dedication in keeping his clients safe. I have never seen a better run shark diving operation, and full boats year after year show that I am not alone in my feelings. There is not much more to say, really. I vouch for Jim; he is a close friend, and I support him fully. Eric Cheng Editor and Publisher, Wetpixel.com
Posted by Eric Cheng on 2008-02-25 23:36:50 Jim and his crew are absolute professionals. Even with the many hours I've spent in the water, I learned a lot during my trip aboard the Shear Water. Jim's passion and in-depth knowledge of the sharks made the trip, and I wouldn't hesitate to get back in the water with him and his crew. In fact, I'm planning to visit again. It would be a shame to let over-reaction to a single unfortunate incident tarnish Jim, his crew or diving with sharks in general.
Posted by tonywu on 2008-02-25 23:32:24