VIDEO: Shark attacks surfer Mick Fanning during competition in South Africa

JEFFREYS BAY, South Africa -- Professional surfer Mick Fanning was attacked by a shark while competing in South Africa on Sunday.

The competition was canceled after the Australian surfer, who was a finalist in the J-Bay Open, was attacked by a shark while he was waiting for the heat to begin.

Video captured Fanning clutching his surfboard and kicking at the shark.

ABC News reports Fanning, 34, was picked up by safety boats, said the World Surfing League, which hosted the event. He was unharmed, ESPN reports.

The competition tweeted that Fanning had made it out safely and spoke with him after the terrifying attack.

"Mick's composure and quick acting in the face of a terrifying situation was nothing short of heroic and the rapid response of our Water Safety personnel was commendable -- they are truly world class at what they do," read a statement from the World Surfing League.

Watch the full video courtesy of the World Surfing League above.