LocalSol

Kelly Slater is testing new 'The Manta Ray' surfboard by Channel Islands

2012-01-31T07:04:00.000-05:00

Kelly Slater is testing new 'The Manta Ray' surfboard by Channel Islands

The best surfboard shapers of all time

2012-01-31T06:54:00.000-05:00

The best surfboard shapers of all time

'Get Ready for the Mongoose Cup March 10, 2012 !!!'

2012-01-26T16:29:00.000-05:00

'Get Ready for the Mongoose Cup March 10, 2012 !!!'

WOUNDED GULL

2012-01-26T08:56:00.000-05:00

Here is a very good read on Mark Richards. aka "the wounded gull" I guess it was this sort of shot that he got the name.
http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/news/general/mark-richards-so-long-chairman-of-the-boards/2417344.aspx

legendary surfer

2012-01-11T09:55:00.000-05:00

I poached this from Sway locks. I saw it a few weeks ago........... Over the years I have always admired the way in which Jerry Lopez has carried himself as a person. The last 2 years I have been going out to the "Battle of the Paddle" at Dana Point. Jerry is a very big part of that race it. Its not uncommon to see him talking to people and giving out autographs. He usually does all 3 races which is a true testament to his physical condition.
He is truly an inspiring individual. So much that next year, I am going to walk right up to him and ask him for his autograph........... Ill keep you posted!

2012-01-09T09:06:00.001-05:00

Rob Machado
www.robmachado.com/

Nat Young

I am sure this comparison has been made before,just thought I would throw that in! here is a short vid on a board Rob has been working on defiantly out side the box

Fresh PEAHI !

2012-01-06T08:44:00.001-05:00

Just came a cross this. All I can think is that, I was glad that I could view this sitting in my house. This is paddle session.at PEAHI on Maui 1/4/2012........Hey Brahhda you like fresh Peahi??? subscribe to H20PRODUCTIONSHAWAII.COM

Recycled foam to surfboard foam

2011-12-30T08:59:00.001-05:00

This is awesome one more brick in the wall at saving our planet!
check out this site for some really great info on recycling http://earth911.com/
also checkout http://sustainablesurf.org/

Standup Paddle Surfing

2011-12-18T09:19:00.000-05:00

Anthony Vela and Candice Appleby surfing in San Diego from Boardworks Surf on Vimeo.

http://supconnect.mylocallineup.com/ is a really great site for whats happening in the world of standup paddling. Here is a video of Candice Appleby and Anthony Vela ripping in California they both came to Wrightsville for the "Carolina Cup" last April. For more info on the Carolina Cup go to Distressed Mullet.

"Where will I be when I get there?"

2011-12-14T09:03:00.000-05:00

California Battle of the paddle 2011

What I love about this race is all the really cool race boards that you get to see. I went around and took a few pictures and put them in a little slide show. It was really hard getting willy and the band to puts some music to it.title of the song is "Where will I be when I get there?"

"You make me smile" by Aloe Blacc

2011-12-13T09:07:00.001-05:00

"YouTube" music is amazing........ Aloe Blacc is a very Solful artist very worthy of a post on LocalSol blogspot have a listen http://aloeblacc.com/

Hawaii Surfers Surfing Past 60 - Honolulu Magazine - December 2011 - Hawaii

2011-12-13T08:58:00.000-05:00

Hawaii Surfers Surfing Past 60 - Honolulu Magazine - December 2011 - Hawaii

The link to the right of the picture will take you to an article about over 60 surfers that I came across its good stuff hope I can be like them when I grow up!

This is a painting that I traded Mark Miller a longboard for. His mother painted it in 1968, it is of Jock Sutherland on the north side of the Huntington beach pier.
I remember the photo it was in Surfer magazine it was such a beautiful picture.The sun coming through the wave and Jock doing a stretch 5 on the nose. I am not sure who took the photo, but I know who painted the picture Thanks Mrs Miller!!!!

surfing weather forcast

2011-12-04T10:52:00.000-05:00

StormSurf.com from Dean C. Smith on Vimeo.

Being a surfer and living by the Ocean I am amazed at how the weather constantly affects my life. Its usually the first thing I do in the morning. I am not much of a weatherman, but I do like to follow how the La Nina and El Nino phenomenon effects on our coastal weather. Storm Surf.com has just posted there updated El Nino Southern Oscillation Forcast for the coming winter and 2012 spring. Its a lot of information about models and waves, but if you can wade through it it gives a you a greater understanding of our weather and it's predictability and unpredictability. Click on Storm Surf .com and have a look.

San Diego Reader | Joe Bauguess's Last, Worst Wipeout

2011-12-01T08:19:00.002-05:00

San Diego Reader | Joe Bauguess's Last, Worst Wipeout

Duke Kahanamoku Interview -"Father of Surfing"

2011-11-26T07:40:00.000-05:00

I had never seen this before. I picked it up from youtube, thought I would share the aloha.

North Carolina Surf to Sound Challenge 2011

2011-11-21T07:57:00.000-05:00

A little race clip this is the beginning of the elite class 6 mile ocean to sound race finishing at the Blockade Runner hotel. Thanks to Shawn Spencer race Director and family. Thanks to Bill Baggett of the Blockade Runner Hotel for hosting a great race.

Rocker 101

2011-11-16T07:53:00.001-05:00

I took Logan my 5 yr old grandson up SURF CITY SURF SHOP. Right off the bat he started checking out the rocker on this 5 'surfboard that caught his eye. I said to myself that's amazing that he would recognize the importance of board rocker. I get these design newsletters from Greenlight Surfboard Supply and if you have ever been confused about how the bottom of your board works ,well click this link Greenlight Surfboard Supply and it will take you to a very informative article that sheds light how we all rock and roll on the water.

Meet the guy that changed my life

2011-11-12T17:37:00.000-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen I would like to you to meet GENO ARRIOLA.

I have been going to California for the last 2 years to participate in the "Rainbow Sandals Battle of the Paddle". After the first race on Sat we went to the KONA BREW beer tent , because Georgia didn't have her I D we couldn't go in. On Sunday after I did the 10 mile race, we headed back over to the beer tent. With I D in hand These 2 guys were checking the I D's and as I walked away one of the guy says........Billy Curry is that you and I turn around and its Geno!!!

I meet Geno in California in the early 70s. We both worked for Grant Reynolds. Grant owned "Bay Cites Glassing" and "Jacob Surfboards" in Hermosa Beach California. Grant was a great guy, he gave two young guys the opportunity work in his business and learn from him. Geno was glassing boards and I was working in the small retail shop California Company . At night I would glue stringers in the Clark preshape blanks.

One Sat nite in Sept while Geno was glassing boards, I went down to the liqueur store and got a 6 pack of beer. I had earlier that day received a letter from my friend Bill Cooper. Billy had moved to the north shore. His letter talked about surfing Sunset Point and the beauty of the island. The more we talked about it, the more we both agreed that we should go to Hawaii. Within 30 minutes we hatched the plan and in the next couple days we were on the plane with one way tickets in our hands and about 450.00.We got to Honolulu by taxi and bought a car for 350.00. As we headed out of town making our way through Pearl City up to Wahiwa. I still remember that look on Genos a face as he looks at me and says.... Hell Yea we made it!!!!!!! As we made our way down through the pineapple fields to Haliewa, we some how knew our lives would never be the same.
We made it to Kammies market out on the north shore and found a listing for a room for rent that was across the street.We drove the car across the street and it promptly decided to die! If it had not be for Geno I would have probably never moved to the Islands. Its In the islands that I met Georgia my wife of 37 years with 3 wonderful grown children and 1 grandson and soon to be granddaughter Kailia. That my friends is how this man changed my life thank you Geno!!!!

fall fishing report #2

2011-11-02T07:18:00.000-04:00

I really learned a lot on this one.......Did you know there is another use for Windex other that cleaning windows? You can also use it for thinning acrylic paint. It works like magic!!!!!!!!

fall fishing report

2011-11-01T08:09:00.000-04:00

This paint job came out great ! its the other one that kicked my butt. Pictures coming soon.

Pacific’s Cortes Bank is full of big-wave surprises

2011-10-20T17:30:00.002-04:00

Pacific’s Cortes Bank is full of big-wave surprises
I just finished reading Susan Casey's "The Wave " if you haven't you should. It will give a deeper understanding of the ocean scientifically speaking but, most of all it will open up a part of you mind to the surfers that ride giants.Along with this I added an article from the Orange County Register about Cortes Bank. VERY GOOD STUFF!!!!

Fall Fishing Report

2011-10-19T06:55:00.000-04:00

Well not exactly!! Here are the preliminary results of the www.akushaper.com/ template.
Ill post more in the coming weeks

Aku Shaper

2011-10-13T11:08:00.000-04:00

Aku Shaper is an online software that you can download for free and design a board. here is one that I designed from some of my previous shapes. It has a 3D mode that allows you to see your board before you
actually shape it.
www.akushaper.com

Hula

2011-10-09T09:52:00.000-04:00

The "Spears family luau" daughter Malia performs Hula 'auana, music performed by the North Carolina Ukelele Academy.............. good time with much Aloha!!!

Surfing to Become Sanctioned Competitive Sport in Hawaii High Schools

2011-10-05T08:54:00.001-04:00

Surfing to Become Sanctioned Competitive Sport in Hawaii High Schools

Here is a little news of interest. Tight budgets in education here in North Carolina, This might be something that would make a kid sit up in class and pay attention. High school teams would be the Laney "Billabongs" against the New Hanover High "'Rusty's" or the Ashley "Quicksilver's" against the Hoggard High "Volcoms"............This would increase the marketing potential for all of the surf companies

International Surfing Museum in Huntington Beach

2011-10-01T07:55:00.001-04:00

California is defined by two things that I love. surfing and surf guitar .You can't be any where, and not see or hear, one or the other or both.We were in the International Surfing Museum in Huntington Beach California last week. Its really amazing to see these 2 iconic elements of the California culture under one roof. Next time your out there, stop by and check it out its free and will leave a lasting effect on you like it did me.
http://www.surfingmuseum.org/

Aloha Radio

2011-09-26T19:31:00.014-04:00

We had a chance to see these guys (and girl) in California this weekend. I have to tell you they really have a unique sound .Lauren( the girl) adds a very soulful sound to the bands California surf guitar twang. I bought their C.D., but haven't had a listen yet. I poached this from youtube. go to their website and check them out!!!
Its California surf rock.........
http://www.thealoharadio.com/

"Calm before the storm"

2011-09-01T15:59:00.000-04:00

Last week this time we were preparing for hurricane Irene. Early that morning I went surfing, because there were some pretty good sets coming through.I paddled out on my 6'2" fish, not exactly sure how that was going to work. After the first couple waves, I had adjusted to the size and speed. At the end of the day I had probably caught half a dozen waves, that I will remember for a long time. Waves are like good people that you meet ....there is always something that impresses you about them. Its really magical how for a brief moment this natural energy becomes part of you. Feeling the movement of the water, the excitement of the speed, and the fear of the ocean. Will it be your friend or will it be your nemesis? I took this video on Wednesday. The sky was clear, and the ocean was calm. At sunrise the breaking waves seemed to have a peaceful tone . This where the old saying comes from "The calm before the storm"

Mellow Mushroom

2011-09-01T14:16:00.000-04:00

here is a picture of the Orange summer fish board. One of the guys at Mellow Mushroom came by and bought it today. the retro board with the "original cool mellow mushroom bus.

Holy Ukulele!!!!!!

2011-08-31T08:55:00.000-04:00

I just love the surfing sound of this one!!!!!

"2nd Annual Shem Creek Shootout"

2011-08-17T10:41:00.000-04:00

Standup paddling is growing in popularity all over the country. Most people view
SUP as only having one element to it. That's standing on a big surfboard and paddling around in the water. There are actually several ways to standup. One is standup surfing either in the ocean or in a river that has rapids. Another is standup racing which has the training disciplines like any other timed event. Last but not least is the recreational paddling which feels like the boating experience of just being on the water. Here is a clip of the "2nd Annual Shem Creek Shootout" this was a great race and I predict it will become one of the most popular races along the Atlantic coast.

surfing the distance

2011-07-05T07:30:00.002-04:00

picked this from http://www.supthemag.com/ it has a lot of great info and articles about whats going on in standup paddling around the world........ check this out!

funny!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-06-22T13:08:00.001-04:00

the video speaks for its self!! to funny

surfing bird

2011-06-14T06:57:00.003-04:00

In the 60's the song "SURFIN BIRD" BY "THE TRASHMEN"
captured the the early punk spirit of surfing........ the new subculture of the time.
FOR THE FULL EFFECT PLAY BOTH VIDEOS AT THE SAME TIME.

fish sisters

2011-06-13T08:53:00.004-04:00

I have been having a great time on my summer fish. It has exceeded my expectations for a summer fun board. It paddles so good, is very loose and very fast. The summer southwest trade swell has been turning on in about the waist to chest high range. Making the lefts very quick and clean, when the tide has been right.Here a couple of pictures of the "fish" sisters.

Love summer!

2011-06-02T09:37:00.007-04:00

Wow can't believe my last post was May 3rd.. the weather is finally "summer kine". We have been paddling a lot! went down to the Gulf Coast Standup paddleboard championships couple weeks ago. Great paddling and really a great event, very well organized.

Paddle faster dude!!!!!!!

2011-05-03T07:53:00.003-04:00

had a chance to talk to Anthony this weekend at the CAROLINA CUP race. He actual ended up winning the 12 mile elite race. Checkout this clip!!!!

severe backache!

2011-04-26T09:06:00.001-04:00

this makes my back hurt!

wave jet

2011-04-19T09:17:00.001-04:00

this should keep it interesting for the next few years!

wrightsville Beach Biathlon 2011

2011-03-28T09:00:00.003-04:00

4 mile paddle and 4 mile beach run around Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
here a little clip of the race on Saturday about 25 racers participated great conditions!
Check out more pictures and info on the race at http://distressedmullet.com/?p=8874
("Purple Haze" is on the album "Are You Experienced")

Tom Carroll..................My Hero

2011-03-14T08:54:00.002-04:00

SUP at the Quiksilver Pro from Australian Paddle Surfer on Vimeo.

I love how the surfing champions from the past continue to rewrite themselves. Gerry Lopez and Tom Carroll are fine examples of this. I suspect that their main motive is to stay fit and have fun
in the water.

Three cheers!!! hip hip hooray..! hip hip hooray..! hip hip hooray..!

summer fish update

2011-03-11T07:22:00.005-05:00

I picked up the "summer fish" yesterday from Jimmy Keith. Jimmy did an awesome job glassing the board. This is the first EPS board that I have shaped and I was very impressed with the outcome. The FCS fin boxes give the board a really clean look. This board should be a real flyer.

So Long Yancy !!

2011-02-21T09:25:00.007-05:00

Yancy Spencer III: 1950-2011
go to the link and check out the paddle out he was a incredible surfer and human being

http://www.pnj.com/section/videonetwork?bctid=797484475001

Back to the Island

2011-02-20T17:41:00.003-05:00

Leon Russell has been one of my favorite musicians since I was 20 years old. I was living in Hermosa beach California and I would walk down to the pier and watch the sun set in the pacific ocean and take in everything that was California in 1972. this song was recorded a few years later.
His music has been descibed as having a very (local)Soulful sound. Is that when it moves something in your soul? http://www.leonrussellrecords.com/

summer fish

2011-02-19T07:09:00.006-05:00

I don't have to tell you how cold this winter has been. So I thought I would get myself in the mood for warmer times to come. I have been wanting to do a board shaped out of EPS foam.I was truly amazed at how easy the shaping was. The foam really sands away quite fast.Early on into the process, I realized that I would need to go at it slow or I would ended up with a potato chip. I am going to do box fins on this one instead of the glass ons. This board is inspired by the red Gary McNabb board made by NECTAR

Surfers clash with stand up paddlers on Hawaii waves

2011-02-12T06:53:00.004-05:00

On the big Island ( Hilo side)surfers and Stand up paddlers were having some issues in sharing the ocean. watch this link we could all learn a little something from them. its called................ ALOHA
Follow this link http://www.bigislandvideonews.com/2011/02/10/video-surfers-clash-with-stand-up-paddlers-on-hawaii-waves/

Standup for beer!

2011-02-11T07:41:00.004-05:00

The sport of standup paddling continues to grow in popularity and so does beer.

The new brew, Kona’s first new offering on the Mainland since 2007, features toasted coconut (more than 200 lbs of real toasted coconut is added to the mash tun) and is being offered in limited release starting February 21 in Hawaii and on the West Coast. It will replace Pipeline Porter on shelves and be available until May (when Wailua Wheat will again be available), before being re-launched with wider distribution in January 2012.

Sorry, though, East Coast paddlers, you’ll have to wait until January 2012 for Koko Brown on your taps.

For distribution and more information call 808-334-BREW or www.KonaBrewingCo.com.

Water skiing comes to Jaws

2011-02-09T07:07:00.004-05:00

Leave it to Chuck Patterson to take on some thing like this.

Logan rocks the" Woodrow"

2011-01-31T16:45:00.005-05:00

I bought this little instrument in the mountains a couple of years ago. Its called a "Woodrow". I play it from time to time, but not as good as Logan does! here's the link
http://thewoodrow.wordpress.com/

January 16th 2011?

2011-01-23T07:39:00.003-05:00

Here is a little clip I poached off of swaylocks. I was thinking what was I doing last Sunday?
WHILE THESE TWO BLOKES WERE GETTING THE MOST INSANE TUBES OF THEIR LIFE'S!!!!!!!!!!!

God Bless You George!

2011-01-22T07:49:00.003-05:00

Do you ever think about those people that left the little mark on you? This guy is one that did.
George Gerlach was always so mellow. All the years that that I surfed the Eastern Surfing Association and going to Hatteras championships.I cant help thinking about George. He was positive and always encouraging, not only to me but to all that came in contact with him. He will truly be missed, George is with out question one of the early pioneers from the frontier days of east coast surfing. God Bless you George!

Billy

photo credit
© 1999 Donna Connor Photography.
http://www.photoface.com/ninetofive/

John Cruz

2011-01-19T08:03:00.004-05:00

Here's another artist that will make you feel good and has the Island style.
http://www.johncruz.com/

2010 OluKai Ho'olaule'a - 4 Minute Recap

2011-01-18T08:20:00.002-05:00

Short video recap of the 2010 OluKai Ho'olaule'a courtesy of Ocean Paddler TV.

by OluKai Premium Footwear

2010 OluKai Ho'olaule'a - 4 Minute Recap from OluKai Premium Footwear on Vimeo.

check out this amazing ocean footage and great racing event!

2011 Coldstroke Classic

2011-01-16T07:50:00.012-05:00

The race conditions were near perfect. very light winds with the tide turning back in, made the second loop that much more challenging. I don't know the exact number of paddlers but it was a pretty large field. The air temp was about 50 degrees, water temp 45. Here is a link to the results. http://sup.coastalurge.com/news/2011-cold-stroke-classic-results/
Wrightsville beach is fast becoming the hub of stand up paddling racing for the mid-atlantic coast. The local core of racers are continually pushing each others limits and driving the sport into what promises to be and exciting year of stand up paddle racing. Check out the distressed mullet for all the latest information and up coming events. http://distressedmullet.com/
Thanks to Coastal Urge for putting on this great event.

kick flip!!!! and the winner is!!!!!!!

2011-01-12T08:10:00.005-05:00

here is an old post about the $10,000 prize money volcom was offering to the first person that successfully pulled of the the "Kickflip" check out the updated link
http://santacruz.patch.com/articles/in-a-miracle-reversal-zoltan-torkos-hits-payday-with-volcoms-10000-payout

Iam always amazed at where surfing continues to go. Zoltan is one of many young surfers that lets there imagination run and lets there boards follow. Go to the link and read the full story
http://www.mercurynews.com/central-coast/ci_17024823?nclick_check=1

Surf Alaska

2011-01-09T16:20:00.008-05:00

Check out this!! if this doesn't make your mind wonder on a winter day I don't know will(get your mind out of the gutter).Surfing and being on the water is probably one of the most powerful experiences an individual can have in his or her life. Its right up there with birth, death, marriage and graduation. If you really discover life on the water, not many things will keep you from it( except birth, death, marriage, and graduation).When I came across this blog and website I was blown away at the incredible beauty and awesome power of the the wet wilderness! so please check this out and let your mind run .http://www.surfalaska.net

Guru Paddles

2011-01-06T11:13:00.008-05:00

Cecilio and Kapono

2011-01-05T07:36:00.004-05:00

http://www.ceciliokapono.com/

take a little trip to c & k's website there are some freedownloads there. they really capture the spirit of good feelings and the style of the islands!

"NEW YEARS DAY" PADDLE 2011

2011-01-02T11:17:00.007-05:00

What a great way to start the new year! Thanks to John Beausang "distressed mullet" for organizing what hopefully will become an annual event. This is much more appealing to me, than taking one of those polar bear swims!

keep your shorts on part #2

2010-12-27T13:13:00.003-05:00

got this from weather underground this morning,saw something about the transition
last week. Jeff Major's blog on "weather underground" is the most up to date and accurate weather info that I have found. He seems to look down the pipe and reports on his findings and it is always very informative!!!

An unusual Nor'easter for a La Niña year
This winter, we are experiencing La Niña conditions in the Equatorial Eastern Pacific, meaning that cold waters have upwelled from the depths off the coast of South America, cooling a huge region of Pacific waters to below-average levels. In most winters, the presence of La Niña acts to deflect the jet stream in such a way the the predominant storm track takes winter storms into the Pacific Northwest, then down through the Upper Midwest and Ohio Valley. According to Dr. David A. Robinson, the New Jersey State Climatologist and Chairman of the Department of Geography at Rutgers University, this sort of flow pattern keeps New England safe from Nor'easters, as storms tend to move from the Ohio Valley northeastwards into Canada, keeping New England in a warm southwesterly flow of air. However, today's storm defied climatology, and gave the mid-Atlantic and New England one of their worst poundings on record for a La Niña Nor'easter. It was the first storm in at least ten La Niña winters, dating back to 1970, to bring 10" of more of snow to New Jersey, according to Dr. Robinson. In Philadelphia, which got 12.4" from this storm, the National Weather Service stated that only one La Niña winter in the past century has had a storm that dumped more than 10" of snow on city--a December 1909 Nor'easter. The reason for the unusual Nor'easter this year is that it happened to get started right when the atmosphere was transitioning from one major flow pattern to another. Since late November, we have been locked into a pattern featuring very weak low pressure over Iceland, and weak high pressure over the Azores--a strongly negative North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and Arctic Oscillation (AO). This pattern, which has allowed a lot of cold air to spill out of the Arctic and into the Eastern U.S. and Western Europe, is now breaking down and transitioning to a very different winter pattern. This new pattern will feature a more typical configuration for winter, with the Icelandic Low and Azores High close to their usual strengths. Today's Nor'easter managed to sneak in just as the atmosphere was transitioning from one major flow pattern to a new one, resulting in the rare La Niña snowstorm for New England. The new winter flow pattern looks to stay in place for at least the first two weeks of January, resulting in warmer than average winter weather for both the U.S. East Coast and Western Europe.

Jeff Masters

December Paddle

2010-12-19T18:17:00.006-05:00

Joe Bark builds the best paddle boards in the world. David Grey is the most incredible songwriter today. Georgia and I did a paddle one Sunday morning before the wind came up and brought in the rain. It was so beautiful and so was she, just watching her glide through the mirror calm water was one of those very unique moments when you actually feel like you are slowing down time. It compares to the feeling of being in the barrel. I met Joe in California this summer he is an awesome individual.Thanks Joe for the awesome boards. I don't know that I will ever get to meet David Grey, although from his music and lyrics it feels like he sure knows me.

'Great day for surfing in Chicago' despite frigid cold - Chicago Sun-Times

2010-12-15T08:51:00.001-05:00

'Great day for surfing in Chicago' despite frigid cold - Chicago Sun-Times

Iam such wuss! these guys are more hard core than the eskimos.........being stoked is such a powerful thing.

warren haynes ill be the one

2010-12-12T16:32:00.001-05:00

listen to the music .......listen to the words, WARREN HAYNES

Brother Mike

2010-12-02T09:28:00.009-05:00

A good friend came across this picture of my brother Mike surfing in the 60's, as I recall he was riding a Surfboards Hawaii "nose rider model". When I saw the picture several thoughts poured through my mind. How great it was to grow up surfing here on the east coast. It was like a frontier back then, always discovering new ideas about boards and and creating your own distinctive style (although that's how the 60's were whether you surfed or just a hippie ). The picture really capture the style that mike had when he was surfing, I will always remember that.

2010 Molokai 2 Oahu

2010-12-01T08:28:00.004-05:00

Paddling has become a very special thing to me as much as going surfing. Being in the water sets me free. Whether I'm gliding through a turn on the face of the wave or moving down the channel past the sea hawk diving for breakfast. I'm lucky to have two dance's. This video only inspires me to go further.

2010 Molokai 2 Oahu from Molokai2Oahu on Vimeo.

November paddle

2010-11-23T09:11:00.004-05:00

The conditions have been really great for paddling this week. Here are pictures of this morning.Gosh I need to start posting more.

Keep your shorts on!

2010-11-06T08:32:00.001-04:00

Here is the November Advisory to read it in its entirety click the link below

http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.html

Likely La Niña impacts during November 2010-January 2011 include suppressed convection over the central tropical Pacific Ocean, and enhanced convection over Indonesia. Expected impacts in the United States include an enhanced chance of above-average precipitation in the Pacific Northwest, Northern Rockies (along with a concomitant increase in snowfall), and Ohio Valley, while below-average precipitation is most likely across the south-central and southeastern states. An increased chance of below-average temperatures is predicted for coastal and near-coastal regions of the northern West Coast, and a higher possibility of above-average temperatures is expected for much of the southern and central U.S. (see 3-month seasonal outlook released on October 21st

2010-10-27T07:57:00.003-04:00

Here's a little slide show of this years "Battle of the Paddle" its a little rough but
you'll get the Idea.
music NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND....."Lost In The Pines"

California Battle of the Paddle

2010-10-04T15:20:00.010-04:00

Just got back from the the "California Battle of the Paddle". We had an awesome time. I raced the open age group event in near perfect conditions.About 350 people, about 700 paddlers in all events combined just the size of the field was such and incredible paddling experience.Watching the power of the elite racers paddle a very technical course in and out of the waist to chest high waves was awe inspiring.Here are some of the pictures. Thanks to Rainbow Sandals and Jerry Lopez for putting on such great race.

july 4th

2010-07-04T16:51:00.006-04:00

we woke early and got out on the water before the boat traffic. just snapped a few shots of awesome day break light.

standup paddle boarding

2010-06-20T21:58:00.003-04:00

Its really been flat here. I read and article about stand up paddling and surfers in California and how the two groups are crowding each other. there seems to be a conflict of opinions and attitudes.
In North Carolina the back bays and marshes are a wonderland of sights, sounds and what life is really about.

Gulf Coast Stand Up Paddleboard Championships 2010.WMV

2010-05-23T22:11:00.000-04:00

Warren Haynes

2010-05-16T11:05:00.003-04:00

just found out about this guy the other day I really like his lyrics and style of music.
http://www.warrenhaynes.net/home.html

El Nino advisory #6

2010-05-12T08:57:00.005-04:00

This will be the last advisory that I will for obvious reasons. It is now certain that a "la Nina" is now
setting up. What that means for us here on the coast is anybody's guess. Here is more science babble
on what Dr. Majors is currently reporting check this link:
http://www.wunderground.com/blog/JeffMasters/article.html?entrynum=1478

Nearly all models predict decreasing SST anomalies in the Niño-3.4 region through the Northern
Hemisphere summer 2010 (Fig. 6). Most models predict a transition to ENSO-neutral conditions during April-June 2010, followed by ENSO-neutral conditions through the end of the year. However, by July-September 2010, the envelope of model solutions includes a significant number (nearly a third) indicating the onset of La Niña conditions.

you can read the the full discussion at the link below:
http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.html

Surfers Healing

2010-05-01T17:42:00.004-04:00

John Pike sent me this video from 2 years ago. SURFERS HEALING is an awesome organization. check out here website for more information. The young boy in this is Gavin, he just kept wanting to go back out on the board. He kept making the "hand sign" for more.
I remember that we wipedout on one wave on the inside. I had a hand on his vest, he was going one way and I was going the other . When we finally popped up he had this huge grin on his face.
It scared the crap out of me!!!!!

Ground Zero for Surfboards

2010-04-23T06:29:00.004-04:00

If you have a little time and want to see some unbelievable boards check out this thread on the SACRED CRAFT show. http://www2.swaylocks.com/forums/sacred-craft-spring-2010

Record Sea Surface Temperatures and Hurricanes

2010-04-13T19:31:00.004-04:00

This is very interesting, looks like the hurricane season for 2010 could shape up to be a little busy according to this information. Try and read through it if you can. there is some very good science behind this.

http://www.wunderground.com/blog/JeffMasters/article.html?entrynum=1461

El NiNO ADVISORY# 5

2010-04-13T19:18:00.004-04:00

HERE IS THE LATEST ADVISORY FROM NOAA
looks like is starting to weaken.

The equatorial low-level easterly trade winds strengthened near the Date Line, while upper-level easterly wind anomalies became confined to the eastern Pacific. Collectively, these oceanic and atmospheric anomalies reflect an ongoing, but weakening El Niño.

click the link for the entire advisory
http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.html

Sacred Craft

2010-04-13T07:56:00.003-04:00

Sacred Craft expo was this past weekend. check out the you tube channel for some really awesome
clips http://www.youtube.com/user/SacredCraftExpo

Costa Rican Flower Show

2010-04-11T10:14:00.003-04:00

Boy!!! what a long winter. We got a chance to make it down to Costa Rica a few weeks ago, had a nice escape from the cold. Got some really good waves I 'll post more as I get the time. "willy" is playing more horsey music to this one. I only use he's music because he's cheap, I pay him by the beer.

El Nino Advisory #4

2010-03-05T07:45:00.006-05:00

Looks like it is going to be an interesting spring, wetter and cooler that we are generally a custom to. My take on this is we should continue to have more coastal lows developing and moving up the coast. Hopefully this will produce waves for the southeast coast of North Carolina. Here is a part of the advisory click the link to read the complete synopsis.

http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.html

El Niño impacts are expected to last through the Northern Hemisphere spring, even as equatorial SST departures decrease, partly in response to the typical warming that occurs between now and April/May. Expected impacts during March-May 2010 include drier-than-average conditions over Indonesia and enhanced convection over the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, as well as coastal sections of Peru and Ecuador. For the contiguous United States, potential El Niño impacts include above-average precipitation for the Southwest, the south-central states, and Florida, and below-average precipitation in the Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes region. Above-average temperatures are most likely across the northern tier of states (excluding New England and the Northern Plains), while below-average temperatures are favored for the south-central and southeastern states.

Surf Guide Magazine 1963

2010-03-03T09:07:00.006-05:00

My friend Stephanie dropped by the house the other day. She had a magazine that she had been wanting to show me. The Magazine was "Surf Guide " the issue VOL, 1 # 5 ,August 1963.The feature article was by Butch Van Artsdalen in his on words. If you double click the photos you should be able to read the complete article . It was very interesting, to read his comments about the surf culture that was starting to evolve. This article shows his observation and concerns of the day....... surfing in 1963. Thanks!!! Stephanie( she found this magazine in Memphis Tennessee at and Antique shop).

EUROPE WINTER STORM

2010-02-24T18:46:00.004-05:00

Stormy weather in Porto, Portugal.

just checked my weather blog guy Jeff Masters http://www.wunderground.com/blog/JeffMasters/article.html?entrynum=1436 Big storm headed for Spain.

We also have some weather headed our way
The winter storm-fest continues for the U.S.
This winter's relentless winter storm-fest over the U.S. continues this week, with a powerful cyclone over the Northeast U.S. expected to bring 2 - 3 feet of snow to the mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont. The storm is wrapping in too much warm air to bring heavy snow to the major cities along the coast, where most of the precipitation will fall as rain. Next Tuesday, a powerful low pressure system is expected to bring heavy rains to Florida, with the possibility of snow falling in northern Georgia and surrounding regions.

Sunday Standup

2010-02-21T17:02:00.008-05:00

Today was a killer day Georgia, Kim and myself went for a paddle. It was the first day in a long time that the air temperature felt like it had a little warmth to it. Now don't get me wrong you all know how I love these cold winter days(NOT) (does anybody say that any more?) Georgia commented on how all the boats that went by us looked at us, not like we were crazy. More like wow! That looks cool! It made me think that this standup paddle thing, is like a bicycle on the water. Anyway it was really nice being out and digging nature and working on my core.

Surfing Lessons

2010-02-20T07:50:00.004-05:00

I think having this kind of Ap on your Iphone is like looking at the world through a coke bottle. Oh I forgot, you seldom see coke bottles anymore. I think we all are constantly amazed at what you can do with your phone these days. But REALLY learn to surf?? what about smelling the ocean? or hearing the waves breaking, watching those pelicans and dolphins go swimming by.
I mean isn't that why you paddle? out it is for me!!!! I don't think we have to worry about the whole world learning to surf from there Iphone. Until they can come up with and ap for pelicans dolphins and the smell of the ocean............................... do they have these aps yet?????????

Snow Paddle

2010-02-13T14:25:00.004-05:00

Went on a stand up paddle with my new Joe Bark board. I spotted these pelicans hanging together on one of the barrier islands. It was very peaceful .....Tide was falling out in some of the channel cuts we went through so it was defiantly a CORE workout all the way down to my a$$. Thanks to John Beausang, Chris Curry, Big Jim and the Guys for the invite it was really fun!!!!! for more stand up paddle stuff checkout http://distressedmullet.com/

"Double Ender" wave bender

2010-02-07T16:40:00.005-05:00

sweet!!!!!!

nose

tail

view from above!!!!!

Josh shaped this little beauty came out really good we will probably do the glassing this spring when the weather is warmer.

HOMEMADE SURFBOARD PRODUCTIONS
all rights reserved...

February Sky

2010-02-07T07:59:00.006-05:00

Me ,Georgia and Chris had a chance to get in the channel on Thursday
here a little slide show that I put together

El Nino Advisory #3

2010-02-05T16:59:00.000-05:00

Here is the current info as of 02-04-10 sea surface temps are edging up, but our weather looks like its going to continue into spring Go to the link below to read the full discussion.
.http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.pdf

Joe Bark

2010-02-03T08:44:00.001-05:00

just got this12"6" race board from joe bark can't wait to get it in the water.

http://www.barkocean.com/

Stand up paddle / Surf expo

2010-01-26T07:49:00.000-05:00

Stand up was the hit of the expo. all sorts of companies were there, from the very well established to the new start ups. All were working hard to get there opening orders for the coming spring season. I didn't realize that there were several styles of stand up categories. Standup can be done in lakes and rivers and the flat inland waters on the coast . there is open water distance and race and last but not least is standup surf. all require specialized boards for there respective purpose. This will truly become the new sport that people will hop on to. I suspect that those that weren't turned on to kayaking will truly love the stand up experiance.

Why sit when you can stand.

Florida Shape Off

2010-01-24T08:41:00.003-05:00

Chris with the original version Bing "David Nuuwhia"
featherlight.

Todd getting ready to lay down his lines

Todd Holland is 2010 winner

Paul Eaton

These board were shaped by Dick Catri and Balsa Bill Yerkes

first place trophy

The SURF EXPO was really great! I haven't been in several years it was good to see that they have added a shape off like the one similar to the Sacred Craft in California.
2010 Shapers:

Dick Catri
Balsa Bill
Todd Holland
Claude Codgen
George Miller

2010 Sponsors:

Paul Eaton was the organizer of the event, very cool guy with lots of great Ideas. He mentioned that they would like to have shapers from the up and down the east coast for the event next year. Heres my list from around the Carolina's

Will Allison
Greg Eavy
Jimmy Keith
Bobby Webb
Gary Wilson
Lynn Shell
Dave Endress
Drew McDaniel

East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame

2010-01-19T07:05:00.000-05:00

I had a chance to go to the Surf Expo last week. I'll be blogging on a few things that I got to see.I stopped by the East Coast Surfing Hall Of Fame booth here are some of the pics.
http://www.eastcoastsurfinghalloffame.com/

North Atlantic Oscillation

2010-01-10T12:24:00.001-05:00

Here is the reason for all this really cold weather.

The winter of 2009 - 2010 has seen a very strong negative NAO, causing much of our cold weather over Eastern North America and Europe. The NAO index for the month of December 2009 was -1.93, which is the third lowest NAO index since 1950 for a winter month (December, January, or February). The only winter months with a lower NAO index were February 1978 (-2.20) and January 1963 (-2.12). January 1963 was one of the coldest months on record in the UK and the Eastern U.S.. February 1978 was the coldest February on record for five U.S. states, and featured the historic blizzards in both the U.S. and UK. The NAO so far for January 2010 has continued to stay strongly negative, ranging between -1.5 and -2.1.However, the blocking ridge over Greenland is forecast to weaken next week, allowing the sharp kink in the jet stream to straighten out. This will increase the NAO index to more typical values, allowing a return of more ordinary winter weather to the U.S. and Europe.

FOR A MORE DETAIL go to this link and read the complete article from Dr.Jeff Masters
http://www.wunderground.com/blog/JeffMasters/article.html

El Nino advisory #2 Dec-9-2009

2009-12-23T07:17:00.002-05:00

Here is the current advisory. looks like the current weather trend will be with us for a while http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.pdf

Here is an excerpt from the advisory,click the link for the entire advisory.

Expected El Niño impacts during December 2009-February 2010 include enhanced precipitation
over the central tropical Pacific Ocean and a continuation of drier-than-average conditions over Indonesia.
Also, warming in the far eastern equatorial Pacific is likely in the coming months with the associated
potential for enhanced rainfall in portions of Peru and Ecuador. For the contiguous United States,
potential impacts include above-average precipitation for the southern tier of the country, with belowaverage
precipitation in the Pacific Northwest and the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. Below-average
snowfall and above-average temperatures are most likely across the northern tier of states (excluding New
England), while below-average temperatures are favored for the southeastern states

Surf dog

2009-12-16T07:28:00.000-05:00

Stephanie sent this to me if you love dogs and like to surf .....................this will make you cry, it did me!

argyle fish update 3

2009-12-14T08:12:00.000-05:00

final gloss cant wait to ride it

ALL TO MYSELF

2009-12-10T16:51:00.002-05:00

WBLA OYSTER ROAST

2009-12-06T09:13:00.000-05:00

Last night was the annual WBLA oyster roast. Great crowd there, and plenty of great food, not to mention tons of oysters, thanks!! to woody. Its a great event and a worthy cause. all donations go to help local surfers in there time of need. http://www.wblasurf.org

Bali Bound

2009-11-25T08:14:00.000-05:00

My friend Robert Parker just left for Bali last week he has created a blog for his journey. Here is the link for your viewing pleasure.

http://oceanauticadventures.blogspot.com/