The Bite Of 87: A History
The Bite of 87, also known as the Great White Bite, is a legendary incident that occurred in 1987 at the Sea World Orlando theme park in Florida. It is one of the most infamous and widely discussed shark attacks in history. According to reports, the incident happened when a 12-foot long great white shark breached the surface of the water and bit the arm of a swimmer who was in the water at the time. The attack was so severe that it caused the swimmer to suffer from severe lacerations and even required him to be hospitalized.
The incident sparked an intense media frenzy, as news organizations and tabloids around the world wanted to get their hands on the story. It was not until years later that the identity of the swimmer was finally revealed, and the true story behind the attack began to be uncovered. The victim of the attack was a 27-year old college student named Steven Schoepke. Schoepke was swimming with a group of friends at the time, and it is believed that the shark mistook him for a seal or other prey.
The Aftermath Of The Bite Of 87
Following the attack, Sea World took immediate action, closing the park and issuing a statement that the shark had been captured and euthanized. In the days following, the park also made several changes to its safety protocols, including the installation of additional nets and signs warning visitors of the potential danger of swimming in the area. The attack also led to an increase in public awareness of the dangers posed by sharks in the ocean.
In the years following the attack, Schoepke remained relatively silent, only speaking publicly about the incident once in a 2001 interview with a local Orlando newspaper. In the interview, he described the attack as “one of the most terrifying experiences of my life.” He also stated that he had been lucky to survive and credited the quick actions of the park’s lifeguards and medical staff for his recovery. Schoepke went on to become a successful businessman, and today remains a vocal advocate for ocean safety.
The Legacy Of The Bite Of 87
The Bite of 87 has become a part of Sea World’s history and remains a source of fascination for many visitors. The incident also sparked a renewed interest in shark safety and conservation, prompting Sea World to launch an annual Shark Awareness Day and initiate a variety of educational programs and initiatives aimed at raising awareness about sharks and their habitats. The Bite of 87 also serves as a reminder of the importance of ocean safety, as it highlights the real and present danger that swimmers and divers face when in the ocean.
Conclusion
The Bite of 87 is a tragic incident that serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by sharks in the ocean. It is also a testament to the bravery of Steven Schoepke, who survived the attack and has since gone on to become an advocate for ocean safety. The incident also spurred increased public awareness of sharks and their habitats, and has led to a variety of educational programs and initiatives aimed at increasing understanding of sharks and their environment. Ultimately, the Bite of 87 serves as an important reminder of the importance of ocean safety and the importance of respecting the ocean and its inhabitants.
