Surfer caught by monster wave

A camera mounted on a surfboard has captured the moment professional surfer Mark Healey was "caught inside" by an enormous wave at San Francisco's notorious Mavericks break.

Healey was competing in the 2014 Mavericks Invitational when he was swamped by an estimated 25ft (7.5 metre) monster.

The incredible footage shows Healey pick up his paddling in an attempt to beat the wave, his eyes and mouth betraying his realization that the crashing giant would win the race.

At the very last second Healey abandons ship to drop under the break, with his board left to take the brunt of the wall of water. Healey emerged safely from the foaming mess but was later eliminated from the contest.

South African Grant "Twiggy" Baker went on to win the event in perfect Mavericks conditions.