Olympic Surfing Hopeful Katherine Diaz Hernandez Sadly Passes Away After Being Hit By Lightning

Katherine Diaz Hernandez, who was a member of El Salvador's national surfing team, has sadly died after being struck by lightning while out on the water.

Diaz was expected to represent her country at the Olympic Games in Tokyo in less than three months' time.

She was just 22 years of age.

Instagram/@katherinecook7

El Salvador's National Institute of Sports (INDES) confirmed the devastating news, adding that Diaz had been practicing near her home of El Tunco beach when she was killed.

INDES president Yamil Bukele lead the emotional tributes as messages of support came flooding in from surfing fans all over the globe.

Bukele tweeted: "A great loss for our sport. All our solidarity for the surf family. I accompany them in their pain."

While Diaz's teammate Josselyn Alabi added: "Her loss in the waves hurts and impacts us."

The Salvadoran Surf Federation also passed on their condolences, saying: "A great athlete who has represented our country has left us. See you soon, great warrior. El Salvador is in mourning."

Very, very sad news.

Rest In Peace, Katherine.

Topics: Surfing, olympics, olympic games, Tokyo Olympics, Australia

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry