National Geographic Adventure

Extreme Photo of the Week: Bodyboarding at Shark Island, Australia

“I just wanted to get a bomb and was really enjoying the ride,” says bodyboarder Chase O’Leary of catching this six-foot wave during the Shark Island Challenge, in June 2011, near Sydney, Australia. “But I didn’t read the wave properly, hence why I got smashed into the reef.” Surfing’s little brother, bodyboarding is a sport that’s growing up. “There’s been a real boom in the younger generation—not just in Australia but around the world,” says O’Leary, 19, who has been bodyboarding for nine years. “People see it as a more functional way of riding a wave than surfing. Once you start to get the hang of it, it becomes addictive.”

Photograph by Cameron Spencer, Getty Images

Extreme Photo of the Week: Climbing Near Squamish, British Columbia, Canada

“Being in this crack was surprisingly secure—when I was not moving,” says climbing guide John Furneaux of tackling Public Image, a 4-pitch route on the North Wall of the Squamish Chief. “Whenever I tried to make upward progress it felt like I might be spit out into the abyss at any moment.” The tight squeeze afforded amazing views of giant old-growth cedar and douglas fir trees and Squamish, British Columbia, a gateway to world-class climbing, whitewater paddling, wind sports, and mountain biking. “As much as I hate to give away my secret playground,” comments Furneaux, “I have to say that if people are looking for adventure, Squamish is truly the destination they should visit.”

Photograph by Paul Bride