An Australian sailor, Timothy Shaddock, recently spoke about his harrowing ordeal during a news conference held in Manzanillo, Mexico on Tuesday. Shaddock, who had been sailing from Mexico to French Polynesia with his dog, Bella, lost contact with the outside world when his boat's electronics system was damaged during rough seas. He drifted for over two months in the vast Pacific Ocean, surviving on rainwater and raw fish that he managed to catch. Shaddock described his experience as a difficult ordeal, battling exhaustion, despair, and hunger.

During the news conference, Shaddock expressed his gratitude for being rescued, especially considering the approaching hurricane. He recounted how a helicopter flew above his boat, the first vehicle he had seen in months, and eventually a tuna trawler named Grupomar arrived to rescue him. The fishing fleet company stated that Shaddock and Bella were in a “precarious” state when they were found. Shaddock expressed his appreciation for the captain of the boat and the fishing company, acknowledging that they had saved his life.

Shaddock's health was severely affected during his time at sea, but he received medical attention after his rescue and stated that he was now doing "pretty good." Mike Tipton, a professor of human and applied physiology, commented on the importance of Shaddock's positive mental attitude and having Bella as a companion during the ordeal. Tipton attributed their survival to a combination of luck and skill, highlighting Shaddock's ability to secure a source of drinking water.

The helicopter pilot who spotted Shaddock's damaged boat while searching for tuna described the moment as seeing something bobbing in the vast blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The pilot alerted a small boat to rescue Shaddock, who appeared dazed and weary. Shaddock, resembling the character from the movie Castaway, expressed his enjoyment of being at sea but emphasized the importance of survival in tough conditions.

Shaddock's journey began about three months ago when he embarked on a sailing trip from Mexico to French Polynesia. He described himself as someone who enjoys sailing and loves the ocean. His boat, the Aloha Toa, was seriously damaged by a storm, leaving him adrift and cut off from land. Despite the challenging circumstances, Shaddock found happiness within himself and appreciated being alone in the water.

Shaddock's dog, Bella, had been his loyal companion throughout the journey, refusing to leave his side. Shaddock praised Bella's bravery and expressed his gratitude for her presence. He credited her as a source of comfort and companionship during the long and arduous days at sea.

The Australian government, along with Grupomar, the company that rescued Shaddock, is providing assistance to ensure his safe return to Australia. Shaddock expressed his gratitude towards the captain, crew, and the fishing fleet company, acknowledging that they saved his life. While he still loves the ocean, he laughed off the idea of sailing again in the near future.

Overall, Timothy Shaddock's survival at sea with his loyal dog Bella is a story of resilience, determination, and the will to live. His journey serves as a reminder of the vastness and unpredictability of the ocean, as well as the importance of companionship and a positive mindset in times of adversity.