Surf contest reminds bystanders of sea's power

The Mavericks Surf Contest was no day at the beach for participants or spectators.

Unexpected waves breaking on shore Saturday swept dozens of spectators from their perches on the man-made jetty at the southern tip of Mavericks beach.

Most escaped with minor injuries but three people were hospitalized with broken bones. Others needed plucking from the water. The near tragedy stood as a reminder of how dangerous the sea can be.

Authorities spent the rest of the day warning the thousands attending the event of the difference between the ocean front and a walk in the park. They closed off vast portions of the beach, ushered people from the edges of …