Paddleboard "Jeep Pull" with LakeSet Fitness

Nate Richard, paddle pioneer/fitness innovator/founder of LakeSet Fitness, has discovered a new training technique that will take your SUP strength and power to the next level.  

After years of training and competing Nate has discovered that peak performance can only be obtained when adrenaline is at its max, when the body is shocked and a life or death situation is on the line.  On Sunday January 26 on Lake Grapevine, TX a life or death situation was on the line.  The situation:  a Jeep stuck deep in the mud and slowly sinking to its demise.  But after years of training Nate was prepared for the worst and quickly grabbed some rope and his custom 404 racer, attached one end to the front of the Jeep and the other to his waist and tried to save the Jeep’s life.  In doing so he was unsuccessful, but while he failed to save the Jeep he succeeded in discovering another new workout program to add to his lineup.  “I’ve never had to use every ounce of my strength like this before.  One week later I am still sore,” says Nate.  Nate went on to tell us that he is excited about implementing his new and innovative “Jeep-Pull” into summer class program at LakeSet Fitness with DFW Surf on lakes throughout N. Texas.    

As far as building muscle goes probably the most important aspect is muscle confusion, or mixing up your normal workout by trying something new.  This could be the amount of weight or reps, but more importantly a completely different exercise and Nate’s new and patented Jeep-Pull is the definition of muscle confusion for paddleboarding.  Nate also informed us that, “If you are not ready for the Jeep-Pull you can try attaching some weights to your board leash or throw some bricks in a backpack.”  Even before that he recommends trying out his ropes course and land pully training before moving to the water.  The science behind the new system is moving less with more (weight).  Why paddle or run six miles when you can work hard for just one?

SUPAA - By Boarders for Boarders w/ Chase Kosterlitz

By boarders for boarders is SUP racer Chase Kosterlitz; an athlete with team Fanatic/Quickblade, currently ranked #10 in the world (supracer.com) and also a pioneer for the sport as one of the founders and board of directors of SUPAA- The Stand Up Paddle Athletes Association.  SUPAA is a new sanctioned body that is very rare in any sport, one founded and run by athletes of the sport and Chase was happy to be a part of Boarders Mag and tell us more.  

So what exactly is the SUPAA?

Established in September 2013, the Stand Up Paddle Athletes Association is an international governing body for stand up paddle boarding. With cooperation from athletes, race directors, sponsors and stand up paddle boarding constituent groups, we will establish standards for stand up paddle board racing rules and execution.

Who runs SUPAA?

Our Board of Directors and Advisory Board members are the most experienced and accomplished stand up paddle athletes and individuals in the world. The Board of Directors oversees all functions and decisions with the input of our Advisory Board and SUPAA members.

What is the purpose of SUPAA?

SUPAA was formed to help give direction to the growth of stand up paddle boarding in a positive and sustainable manner. Global race regulations for rules, safety, course distances, board specs and prize money are important to continuing stand up paddle board growth. Youth development and access programs will also be implemented to help grow the sport. Through our programs we will work to ensure the highest level of excellence in stand up paddling.

What are the goals of the SUPAA?

• Implement the SUPAA Rulebook to standardize stand up paddle board racing rules.
• Certify and educate SUPAA race officials to help implement race rules.
• Coordinate board restrictions with stand up paddle board manufacturers to ensure stand up paddle boarding remains fun and inclusive for all participants.
• Organize the scheduling of stand up paddle events in order to create the most value for event organizers, athletes and sponsors.
• Cooperate with athletes, event organizers, sponsors and all constituent groups to ensure our efforts our effectively carried out.
• Create youth development programs to provide new opportunities for access and growth of the sport.

How is SUPAA different from other organizations?

Our Board of Directors and Advisory Board are comprised of the most experienced and accomplished stand up paddle athletes and individuals in the world. SUPAA is a worldwide organization with representatives on 5 continents. The SUPAA Rulebook is the most comprehensive set of rules ever created for stand up paddling. With the input of race directors and athletes we will work to make these the unified rules of stand up paddling.  We have created a strong and unique position to cooperate with manufactures, race directors and media to set a unified path of positive growth in stand up paddling.

Why create another SUP organization?

There are many great stand up paddle organizations throughout the world working to promote the sport. However, we felt there was a need for a truly global organization to unify the rules and interests of all stand up paddle constituent groups. This is why The Stand Up Paddle Athletes Association was formed.

SUPAA is not affiliated with, or working directly alongside any existing stand up paddle organizations. We will cooperate with all existing entities and encourage them to adopt the SUPAA Rulebook and work with us. You can visit the SUPAA “How We Are Different” page for more info.  

Is SUPAA sanctioning SUP races?

We will not officially sanction any SUPAA events until 2015. We will however, encourage race officials around the world to adopt the SUPAA Rulebook and implement it as their events in 2014. Through the feedback we receive from race officials and athletes we will work to refine the rules. In 2014 we will certify SUPAA Race Officials so that in 2015 these officials can manage SUPAA sanctioned events.

In 2015 we will sanction the first official SUPAA stand up paddle events. This 1-year  process ensures a high standard of excellence for SUPAA stand up paddle events. We encourage you to adopt the SUPAA rules in 2014 and ask for a free race management consultation from SUPAA. We will help you with your questions and provide support to make your stand up paddle race a success.

Why should I join SUPAA?

Your SUPAA membership will help us institute SUPAA programs and regulations that will help the sport continue positive and inclusive growth.  You will join a passionate community of paddlers from around the world to share ideas, information and your love of the sport.

What do I get when I join the SUPAA?

SUPAA member benefits include exclusive paddle tips and training information from the world’s top paddlers, travel discounts with United Airlines, amazing offers and discounts from our SUPAA partners and Paddle Coach program, monthly e-news updates, SUPAA board decal and the knowledge that you will be helping to support programs that will ensure the positive growth of stand up paddle boarding worldwide.

Chase went on to tell us that, “The reception from race officials has been great. They understand there is a need for what we are doing and they look forward to working with us.  We have already been approached by race directors across the North America, South America, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, UK and France to work with us and adopt our rules.  We have already written a comprehensive 22-page rulebook for 2014. This year we will encourage race organizers to adopt the rules and provide feedback. We have an international reach and will take all of the feedback to refine the rules to make them even better for 2015. By reaching out to race directors, athletes and the industry we will work together to establish a unified rulebook.”

To  learn more about SUPAA visit http://supathletes.com

SUP Yoga Teacher Training Retreat in Maui with Dashama

For the last decade Dashama has spent her time traveling the world teaching people healthy lifestyle and meditation through her yoga classes and retreats worldwide. She developed Pranashama Yoga & The Prasha Method,  a yoga style and life transformation system designed to help you strengthen and balance your body and clear any blocks to accessing your highest potential in life.  She is also an innovator and pioneer for stand up paddle boarding and its fusion of yoga, or SUP Yoga, which is now one of the biggest parts of the SUP industry.  

SUP Yoga class

This year her SUP Yoga Teacher Training Retreat will be at Lumeria in Maui on March 4-7.  Students who attend can get certified as a SUP Yoga (Yoga Boarding) Instructor and also earn up to 30 hours of CEUs (Yoga Alliance approved) for attending. 

Accommodations are available for single or double rooms, classes will be daily including healthy meals, smoothies and elixirs along with a special dolphin and whale watching/ swimming excursion.

Price is $1500 for double room occupancy and $1950 for single room. 

To learn more & sign up for the retreat visit: www.pranashama.com/hawaii

Rider Profile: Koko Janphut

Koko Janphut

Nationality: Thai

Hometown: Marseille, France

Sponsors:

Mendonesia Surf

Agenda Surf 

SlayshTank

Papy Team

GlissAttitude ProShop

Wakesurfboardshop. 

Years wakesurfing: 5 years 

Likes: wakesurfing , surfing , snowboarding , My sponsors , my family and my friends

Dislikes: skateboarding , shopping , dancing , running

Favorite lake: Annecy lake , Leman lake and Etang de berre 

Favorite trick: Airs, Air grab, Air double grab, Air 180, Super man, Bigspin, 360, 720, Air 360.

Biggest accomplishments: When I met Dominic Lagace in 2010 for the first time at the GVA Wakesurf Tour on Leman Lake, When I met Chris Wolter and Scott in Thailand at the Kalika Wakesurf Cup 2013, and when I started wakesurfing for the first time. 

Freshwater Surfers take on year end swells at Stoney Point

What might be even more of a surprise to people than people surfing in Minnesota is people surfing when the nations colds front came through this year and the windchill is -51 degrees.

Will Wall surfing at Stoney Point, Lake Superior. Photo by Burton Hathaway

Right before the end of the 2013 winter storms swept the Midwest creating great conditions for freshwater waves on Lake Superior. Burton Hathaway and around ten other fresh water shredders saw this as a great opportunity. Stoney Point, Minnesota, according to Hathaway is “the Mecca of Great Lakes surfing” Because Lake Superior (the deepest of the Great Lakes) holds its heat the longest, the water temperature was a pleasant "36 to 38 degrees," even as the windchill was -51 degrees.

Burton Hathaway after surfing at Stoney Point on Lake Superior in sub-zero conditions. Photo by Erik Wilkie

Burton grew up surfing in Southern California and moved to Wisconsin eight years ago. Despite being landlocked Hathaway continue to pursue his surfing passion no matter his location or weather. Driving seven hours from Wiscounsin to Stoney Point, MN just two days before the New Year to catch some freezing swells. Before surfing he has to cover his face with Vaseline to prevent frostbite and told GrindTV the toughest part is having to wait until all the ice melts off of your wetsuit to change out of it.  Waiting for the ice to melt from the car heaters can take up to 30 minutes but if you don’t wait “you’ll rip your wetsuit trying to get out of it.”

Freshwater surfing, he told Surfline, is "a total different experience." Surfers have to use thicker, wider boards since the freshwater isn't as buoyant as the ocean, making floating a bit more difficult. "You feel like you're surfing in slow motion on some of these waves," Hathaway said.

Stoney Point break Photo by: WIll Wall

"In the back of your mind," he told GrindTV, "you know you can die surfing in these very harsh and unforgiving conditions, but we live for surfing out here on the Great Lakes, and that is our passion."

Video: E Wilke 

More interviews of Burton Hathaway: Surfline, GrindTV

Changing the Game - Nuke Optics

Enter Nuke Optics, who has developed the world’s first Modular Eyewear Design System for sunglasses. Built around the world’s first completely screwless hinge, Nuke VENOM allows full interchangeability and cross compatibility between lenses, frames and side arms (a.k.a. “temples”), regardless of shape, size, design, color or application. 

This revolutionary “build-your-own” system is currently available on NukeOptics.com and gives users access to five different frames (v2, v4, v41, v6, and v8), four types of lenses and three different temples (v, turbo, and samurai) so they can create over one million combinations! 

Samy, Nuke Optics founder states that “VENOM is the world’s first fully customizable single modular system designed for eyewear that has the possibility to work on so many different levels and change the way the eyewear industry has operated for decades. If a component of your eyewear breaks, you can replace that specific part and don’t need to buy a whole new pair.  What’s great is that you can upgrade to new parts when you feel like it, or when we release something new.  By manufacturing parts to be cross-compatible, we are able to create something new, while keeping the cost low and pass those savings to you.”

Check out there recent video here:  http://youtu.be/U5z09PkJ75U

www.nukeoptics.com

Go with the Flow: Moomba Boats Flow Surf Surf System

Photo: Drew Tinker Rider: Trevor Hansen

Another option for surf-boat buyers at an affordable price is the Moomba Flow Surf System, the first manual surf system on the market.  We wanted to learn more so we contacted Moomba Product Manager Matt Brown who is responsible for leading the team that develops all the Moomba products.  We were happy to find out that Matt has been wakesurfing for years; you can even see him in action in the movie "Scrubs of the South" riding an eight-foot foam surfboard back before most people had even heard of wakesurfing.  

So Matt, why did Moomba create its surf system design?

Moomba created the Flow surf system because we saw a demand from the market for something that would allow us to quickly go from wakeboarding to wakesurfing, without filling and draining bags or adding a ton of extra weight to one side only.  While we understand that some consumers in the market are “hardcore” surfers and they may want to add thousands of pounds to one side only to get a perfectly shaped wake, we felt the majority of our buyers like to do all wake sports and we wanted to make something that was quick and easy to use, had great performance, that was extremely reliable, yet still reasonably priced.  We know it may not be the perfect system for every buyer, but we felt like we needed something that had broad appeal that wasn’t complicated to use or had to be perfectly positioned to work properly.

What exactly is the design and how does it differ from other designs on the market?

The design is fairly simple.  We did a lot of testing and developed a rotating plate that deploys on the transom corners and allows the opposite side wake to shape according to the position of the plate.  There are several differences in our design and the others.  The first is our design is the first manual surf system.  All the others are actuated with an electric or hydraulic ram.  While there are several great systems out there, we didn’t want to add the cost of the electronics or actuators to control our system.  Plus, without electronics, that makes the system more reliable and actually easier to use.  Some companies controls are quite complicated, and if not used properly, can actually hurt the performance of the system.  Another difference is our system is adjustable and can be adjusted according to how you want to weight your boat.  If you want to just use factory ballast and a few people, then the first location is probably the best.  However, if you want to slightly offset your weight or add more rear ballast, then you can shape the wake slightly different or lengthen the wake by using the second or third location.  We feel like this gives us even more broad appeal because we know all of our consumers use their boats differently.

What is the engineering process behind the design?

As to the engineering process behind the design, I am not going to lie and say that we did a bunch of CAD development or flow analysis to come up with the perfect design.  It, like I assume most other systems out there, was mainly a trial and error process.  We have known for years that wakesurfing was going to change some of our designs.  We actually have been working on Surf systems for several years, but getting the right “Moomba” solution took us a little longer, but we think it was worth the wait. 

It looks like your surf system design in the first manual one on the market, so what is the benefit of having a manual surf design?

I would say there are 3 main benefits of having a manual surf design.  One is lower cost. The second is reliability because you are not having to deal with electronics that can go bad with time.  And third is ease of use.  Since you manually have to move it, you know exactly what the system is doing and where it is.  Some can say that electronic actuated systems are also easy to use, but if you are not familiar with the system or dash components, electronic systems can be complicated to know exactly what is deployed or working or what side is doing what.  With our system, anyone can drive without having to fear that the driver might “screw up” the wake by the surf system controls.

How about the surf performance with the new design?

Honestly, everyone claims their surf performance is the best and obviously we are very excited about our performance.  But what we recommend is to go check out a local dealer and demo it for yourself.  We feel like with the Flow system, you can easily create a good clean surfable wake by just filling all factory ballast and deploying the opposite side plate to the second position.  However, the system doesn’t stop there.  If you spend a little time with it, you will find that you can tweak the wake to how you like it by adding weight, or slightly offsetting weight side to side or front to back, and by trying different plate positions.  In our testing, we feel like we have one of the most flexible, easy to use systems out there that is not overly sensitive to fine tuning adjustments.  And did I mention it is very reasonably priced? 

To learn more or find a dealer near you visit: www.moomba.com

Nocqua Adventure Gear lights up the night for paddlers

Great article on GizMag.com about one of the coolest SUP products - Nocqua Adventure Gear’s SUP lights.

Stand-up paddleboarding has been one of the fastest growing outdoor sports in recent years. It's been growing so fast that even general interest publications like Time Magazine and The Wall Street Journal have taken notice. New start-up outfit Nocqua believes it has a way to make paddleboarding even more fun and popular, empowering paddlers to get out in the dead of night.

Part of what's fueled paddleboarding's popularity is that it's not as location-dependent as its close cousin surfing. Thanks to its integral propulsion (paddle) and large, stable board, paddleboarding can be enjoyed inland on lakes, reservoirs and rivers.

Nocqua formed earlier this year with the intent of unshackling paddleboarding, along with kayaking and canoeing, from time constraints. Its 2000 LED lighting system provides ample lighting for paddling under the star-spattered night sky. No longer will paddleboarders feel compelled to pack it up when the sun sets... 

Read the entire article here

Find a retailer near you www.nocqua.com

Rider Profile: Korina Smyrek

Photo: Tina Anger

Korina Smyrek - Pro wake surfer 

Nationality:  Swiss

Hometown:  Zurich, Switzerland

Sponsors:

The Walker Project

Agenda Surf

PROTEST Boardwear

MasterCraft Deutschland

Likes: Travis Rice, Freestyler, Formula 1, traveling, cheese, electro music, art, 007, Nirvana 

Dislikes: Traffic jams, pollution of the ocean, snakes, busy places, ginger

Favorite lakes: Switzerland: lake Zurich, lake Obersee, lake Walensee

USA: lake Oroville/ CA, Austin river/ TX, lake Willow/ CO 

Favorite Wakesurf Tricks: 720, 360, Switch FS 360, Air 180, FS 180, FS 180 to 540, airs, airs with grabs variations, switch and backside riding etc. 

Biggest Accomplishments:  2nd and 3rd at the World Wakesurfing Championships, 3x Chill & Ride, 2x Wakesurf Festival, King of the Lake, 3x Oneill Wakesurf Tour, Hurley Come & Ride, Wake and Jam, West Coast Wakesurf Open USA

Interesting Facts:  She is a wakesurf Ambassador for GummiLove. GummiLove is an AIDS prevention campaign who is doing workshops, discussions rounds, charity events, exhibitions, etc. with young people to bring more awareness to this very sensitive topic in combination with sports. 

2014 New Year’s Resolution: 

1.  Winning the World Championships for Pro Women Surf

2.  Visiting European water sports schools to present wakesurfing 

3.  Towing a jumbo tail fin for "Bury the Jumbo" on lake Zurich

Photo: Tina Anger

The awesome photos are courtesy of Tina Anger. Thank you Tina!

Raleigh Hager on MasterCraft Gen 2 Surf System

We caught up with the woman’s World Champion wake surfer Raleigh Hager to get her first hand experience riding MasterCraft’s new Gen 2 Surf System. Check out what she had to say about it. 

What Mastercraft model were you riding on?

2014 X-30 with the new Gen 2 surf system

What does the new surf system do?

Makes the wake cleaner & taller. The boat was weighted evenly and not listing that I could notice.

What is the wave like on the new surf system?

There is no wash at the top, not messy and that helps me see where the wave ends for doing airs. 

How many times did you utilize the left to right transfer of the surf system?

I wasn’t doing any transfers. We were out with Russ Allen from Boat Town in Austin, TX and he rides goofy. He was doing transfers easily. I wanted to see how good the wake was overall on the regular side. Loved it. 

What is more important for you: transfers or a clean massive wake on one side of boat?

I just like a clean wake on one side. The MC Gen 2 surf system makes a very clean wake that’s very full with a lot of push. Some wakes are very long, but long isn’t always better. I’m curious to see what it does on the X-10. We love that we can get such great wake out of 21’ boat. I think the X-10 wake was slightly better than the X-30 last year. I can’t wait to see what the new surf system does on the new X-10.

Thank you Raleigh for sharing your first hand experience with the new system!

Check out the awesome video of the new Gen 2 Surf System on the MasterCraft X30

Connor Baxter's signature "Choke Stroke"

Check out this awesome blog post in SUP racer Connor Baxter's FAQ  section on his blog:

My “Signature” paddling technique is for sure one of a kind. Not having participated in any of the paddling sports, I had no background or training on how to paddle. One day I just started using my technique – and it stuck.

Photo by: Michel Terrien

It is super useful for short sprints to buoys, for upwind, for the starts and coming into the finish line. What I do for this paddle stroke is I slide my hands down the paddle and bend over a little and then paddle my brains out. It is very simple and really allows me to go faster.

Photo by: Michel Terrien

For a race, I normally start out with my paddle stroke to get ahead of the racers and then I put my hand back to the top. I will do my stroke whenever I feel it is needed.  My hands can be like 4 – 12 inches down the paddle shaft. It’s all in the feel of what I need at the time. 

Does the choke stroke make a difference to others? I hear from people who try my “choke stroke.” For instance, I recently got this comment from Cody W:  

"Wanted to pass along thanks for making the choke up stroke more accepted. I was paddling the SEAPaddleNYC on Fri and with a headwind of 17mph with gusts to 30 the only thing that worked for me was choking up and getting down. After the race a paddler came up to me to thank me for showing him the technique. I guess he was behind me and wasn’t going anywhere until he choked up too. Just passin along the cheers since I picked it up mainly from watching you and Annabel kill it. Thanks!” -Cody W

Check out more awesome blog post & tips from Connor Baxter's blog http://blog.connorbaxter.com/faq-talk/

Photos by: Michel Terrien

The Indo Board of Surf - GoofBoard

How, when and why was goof board started?  Does its founder have a surfing background?

For years, I had seen the Indo Board advertised to surfers, but to me it never looked like surfing.  After a friend bought one, I tried it.  It was fun and challenging, but it did not feel like surfing.  The notion hit me that a rail-to-rail motion was the way to go, with a longer, narrower board and roller running parallel with each other.  My crude prototype was a success.  I showed it to friends and they loved it too, so it was too good of a concept not to start a business around it.  The GoofBoard was launched in 2010. 

I started surfing in 1974 at the age of 15 and jumped on the longboard resurgence around 1988.  The GoofBoard has really helped my cross stepping and overall board control.  I give it credit for giving me the skills to surf without a leash most of the time.

How have goofboard sales been so far?

It’s been very well received.  We get glowing comments from customers.  Our business model is to sell online direct only.  I’m sure we could sell more if we chose to sell through distributors, but I prefer the simplicity of the current model.  

What is your target market?

Although boarders of all kinds can benefit from riding the GoofBoard, our target market is surfers and primarily longboard surfers because of the walking aspect.  Another target is stand up paddle boarders as the paddle stance on the GoofBoard is quite realistic.    

Do you sell a lot of these to the inland market?

Yes, we sell a lot within landlocked areas.  It’s common to hear comments about surfers who moved inland and are looking for a little stoke.  We also hear from people that dream of surfing some day and getting a head start with the GoofBoard.  Of course SUP is everywhere, lakes, rivers, etc.  

Where do you make your product and of what type of materials?

The board is made from 11-ply Baltic birch plywood sheets that come from Russia.  The pipes (rollers) are made in California from super-stout recycled materials (a.k.a. cardboard) with a water proof coating applied.  The boards are made in California at the GoofBoard factory.

What is the future for GoofBoard and what do you hope to accomplish in 2014?  Any new products?

2014 will be a pivotal year for us.  Two new models will be released in March.  Both new models are shorter and will ride rail-to-rail AND nose-to-tail using a single pipe.  With a proprietary pipe coating, both boards will have a perfect board-to-pipe “slip-to-grip” ratio that allow for a pivoting motion simultaneous with the rocking motion.   Engineers call this pivoting motion “yaw.”  It’s fair to say that the new models are a Goof/Indo hybrid.  They keep the rail-to-rail motion (and lose some of the walking dynamic), but gain the rocking motion, while introducing the “pivot.”

Armin Brown

www.goofboard.com

Q & A with Jeff Walker aka Wakesurf Dad

Boarders:  When was your first wake surf experience?

Jeff Walker:  Oh I wish that my memory was that good!  It would have been as a kid, before the sport was termed "wakesurfing."  We paddled longboards into the wakes of the ships that traveled down the deep water channel here in the Stockton area.  That would have been in the early 60's.

Boarders:  When and how did you start taking an active role in the sport?

Jeff Walker:  We attended and competed in the 2003 World Wake Surfing Championships in Merced and it was in 2004 that I started getting involved in the promotion of the sport and rule making.

Boarders:  How have you seen the sport evolve?

Jeff Walker:  It's been a wild ride, that's for sure!  In 2013 we have seen the development of two wakesurf tours with multiple stops and contests from what was a single event back in 2003.  The riding has progressed dramatically, yet it is still limited by a number of factors, but we are seeing our athletes develop some amazing tricks and unique styles of riding.

Boarders:  Name and talk about the sanctioned bodies and organizations you have been involved with.

Jeff Walker:  The very first organization that was formed would have been Centurion's efforts with the World Wake Surf Association. I wasn't part of that group, but after the demise of the WWSA I gathered together some of the best and brightest to form the America Wake Surf Association.  I was the first President of that organization and much of what you see today in terms of rules, courses, safety and judging originated from the hard work of that group.  I was a member of the board of directors of USA Wakeboard as that group attempted to create a sports discipline for wakesurfing and those efforts helped develop Wakesurf Nationals.  I was one of the founding members of the Competitive Wakesurf Association (CWSA) and that group continues it's fine work in helping promote the sport of wakesurfing and assisting organizers in staging wakesurf contests. I have also staged contests under the umbrella of the INT League, USA Wakeboard and USA Wakesurf and the WWA.

Boarders:  Where is the sport heading?

Jeff Walker:  Personally, I think that we will need to see some changes to continue to see growth within the sport.  If you've ever watched a wakesurf contest, it's pretty boring.  You will have your favorite riders and it is always great to see their runs, but the other 7 hours . . . not so much.  I think we will see efforts to make the riding more exciting to watch, initial efforts will focus on making the runs quicker, but that will ultimately fail to create better riding or better tricks, just MORE folks doing the same thing.  Eventually, someone will experiment with a different format or vision that will generate the enthusiasm and interest that will sustain further growth within the sport.

Boarders:  Are there any limitations in your opinion upon the sports growth?

Jeff Walker:  Well, there are quite a few compared to say wakeboarding.  We need specialized locations and water depth typically has to be greater than 10 feet.  There are tons of man made lakes for wakeboarding that don't offer wakesurfing a great venue.  We need specialized equipment, folks can wakeboard behind just about any boat, I/O's aluminum jonboats, etc;  we are limited to fairly pricey inboards with huge fat sacs and pretty specific wakesurf boards.  So those things, will hamper the overall growth of the sport in comparison to say wakeboarding; however, the almost meteoric rate of growth will continue as more folks become aware and try it.  We have seen dramatic increases in the number of contests and plans to continue them through 2014 and beyond.  We have seen dozens of new manufacturers offering products in 2013 and there will be more in the years to come.  Those increased offerings make it both wonderful and difficult for consumers.  There are so many options that it is sometimes hard to make a choice!

Another limitation is that competitive judging will continue to be an issue that limits growth of the sport.  Current systems force all riders to ride exactly the same, despite claims to the contrary.  At some point, someone will develop a system that encourages freedom of style and the ability for riders to develop unique tricks that we have not seen yet.  That will require, no doubt, a complete dismantling of the existing judging infrastructure and a change in perspective from the existing who does the best of old school tricks, to who can CREATE the best new age tricks.  Judging is stuck in "years past."

As I wrap this up, I want to thank Boarders Mag for the opportunity;  I appreciate their fresh perspective on the sport and I am honored to be included in the short list of folks that have had an impact on this great sport of ours.  Thanks so much also to your readership and for taking the time to read my interview!

Jeff & Judy

Jeff & Judy Walker receiving their award at the 2013 championships for best event of the year. 

Check out the Walkers blog about all things wakesurfing & technological innovation at:  www.flyboywakesurfing.com

By: Tyler Marshall

Nectar Sunglasses - Signs surf giant Jamie O'Brien

Nectar Sunglasses 

Jamie O'Brien aka JOB 

Nectar Sunglasses is excited to announce that surfer, Jamie O’Brien, has signed on to represent Nectar. Jamie continues to push the limits of surfing and always showcases his talents on the North Shore of Hawaii and worldwide. Nectar has released Jamie's Signature Series "Mahalo" sunnies. Sean Holmes, co-founder of Nectar Sunglasses said, “Jaime represents the sweet life 110% , and that is what we’re all about. We are stoked to have him on the team and are excited to build this partnership.” Check them out at NectarSunglasses.com.

A couple awesome videos of JOB wakesurfing a yacht & flowboarding with pro surfer buddies on their trip across the US this year to experience all the different surf cultures and board sports! 

Boarders Mag Top 4 Things to do this Winter

Boarders Mag Top 4 Things to do this Winter:

1. Flowboarding-  Have you ever tried it?  Along with the growth in popularity of cable parks for wake boarding, flowboarding has really started to emerge on the scene in the last five years with several new indoor surfing spots throughout the country providing a surf-like experience year round.  Flowboarding is wake skating with a surfing vibe and although most flowboarders claim that it is "not surfing" the similarities are identical to surfing for the first time:  nervousness, shakiness, being uncomfortable and not knowing what to do, meanwhile balance is the key and big wipeouts are inevitable.  Keeping your balance in check, laughing with friends, spraying buckets and a skate/surf like feeling that won’t break your bank puts flowboarding on the top of our list.  Shown here is a double flowrider at Fantasy Surf in Orlando, Florida.  This is the practice spot for big name pros like Sean Silveira, Nick Nguyen and Chuck Wright.

Sean Silvera

2. Surf Set Fitness- the ultimate workout for inland surfers or for anyone wanting to get that toned out beach body.  Surf Set Fitness hit the scene big after being backed by Mark Cuban on the hit reality t.v show Shark Tank and today there are locations throughout the US providing several types of intense workouts on patented Surf Set balance boards.  Throw in some techno music and a giant projection screen playing your favorite surf movies and after a couple weeks of paddle strength and balance exercises you will be ready to head to the beach.  Shown here is City Surf Fitness in Dallas, Texas offering yoga inspired classes along with their patented Beach Body Bootcamp and a City Surf comprehensive exercise routine four to five classes a day.

3. Indoor SUP Yoga- Along with the onset of stand up paddle boarding around 2008 there have been several new activities within the yoga world including "SUP Yoga," or yoga on top of paddle boards. Most paddleboard companies today are offering some sort of SUP Yoga class and have now moved indoors during winter months at local community pools and activities centers. SUP Yoga takes your focus one step further, similar to Surf Set Fitness, because you are on top of a moving object. Although you are not outside in a serene setting the plus is that your boards are not being affected by windy conditions making indoor SUP Yoga an ideal place to get started and a great activity to try in the offseason. DFW Surf in North Texas has teamed up with yoga giant lululemon to continue its SUP Yoga classes in the offseason months at local indoor pools like this one at The Colony Aquatic Park.

4. Travel. Surf.-  The best thing for your soul. Go out of your norm. Meet people.  Explore. While we are all about surfing within we understand that the within could not be possible without the real thing; so what about a real surfing adventure on the coast or overseas? No passport, no problem, you could head to Puerto Rico to legendary Rincon. On a tight budget? Try heading to Costa Rica. Looking for a great surf spot and a place to stay nearby?  Then check out our buddies at Wavecation, waves + vacation = Wavecation, your source for surf travel online at wavecation.com.

By: Tyler Marshall

Q & A with Chris Kinsey - Shred Stixx team ripper

Photo: AJ Aguirre

Boarders: What're you up to this offseason?

Chris: I'm pretty busy with school this semester. Other than school I like to hang out with my friends and stay active. I haven't been riding much. However, I am absolutely making up for it in the gym. 

Boarders: Where do you go to school and whats your major?

Chris: I go to Baylor University and I'm majoring in entrepreneurship. 

Boarders: How old were you whenever you got hooked on wakesurfing?

Chris: I started wakesurfing in 2004 and I've been hooked ever since!

Boarders: Who's a rider you look up to and why?

Chris: I've always looked up to Josh Sleigh. I've never met him but I would watch video of him whenever I first started riding. The things he was doing back then were crazy. He's definitely a pioneer of the sport. 

Boarders: What're your plans for 2014? 

Chris: For 2014 I plan on traveling around and attending many contests. I plan making this upcoming season similar to last season, but with more events and more wins. 

Boarders: What's going on with ShredStixx? Anything new going on? 

Chris: Yeah Nick is doing a ton of R&D with custom boards. He's doing so many different things that I haven't ever seen before. He's working with a lot of carbon fiber and stringerless designs. 

Boarders: Any comments on Baylor upset by Oklahoma? 

Chris: No comment...

Boarders: Where's your favorite spot to ride?

Chris: My favorite spot is Lake Nasworthy. It's in my hometown of San Angelo. 

Boarders: Why did one of the best wake surfers not compete in 2013 Worlds? 

Chris: I couldn't attend the 2013 worlds last year because I wasn't invited. The invitational criteria seems very unclear and inconsistent. I would have loved to go though! Maybe next year! 

Photo: AJ Aguirre

Photo: AJ Aguirre

Photo: AJ Aguirre

Sponsors: Shred Stixx , Tige Boats 

Special thanks to awesome photographer AJ Aguirre for the photos from the Tigé Endless Wave Tour - Wake The Desert.

Chicken! Paddleboarding French Bulldog

Remember Chicken the paddleboarding French Bulldog from the first issue of Boarders Magazine? You can get an exclusive look at paddleboard phenomenon, and cutest dog ever, Chicken in his new calendar benefitting the French Bulldog Network.  Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home French Bulldogs in need from commercial breeding kennels, import brokers, public shelters, private rescue groups, owners, and Good Samaritans.  "Our organization is comprised solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs, as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes.

http://www.frenchbulldogrescue.org/

Please donate $20 for a calendar  to help Chicken and FBRN towards their goal of selling 250 calendars.... in-turn giving $2500 to the French Bulldog Rescue Network! 

 Buy the calendars here: Chicken's Calendar 

A new word in Boarders vocabulary: SNUPBoarding

A new word in Boarders vocabulary:  SNUPBoarding:  Snow plus SUP plus Boarding.  The idea of taking a paddle board and snowboarding with it was developed last year by Wolfgang Leeb who runs a SUP Center in Europe called Salzkammergut.  Wolfgang also developed a clothing line as seen here called SUPSkin.

Special thanks to Mirja Geh photography.  Check out SUP Skin and SNUPBoarding in our December digital issue.

Kaley Sparling- Mrs. World far from Toddlers & Tiaras

Hidden away in the Boise, ID pro wakesurfer Kaley Sparling received an unexpected knock on her door from her neighbor three years ago. Kaley’s out-going, friendly natured spirit, and beautiful complexion had compelled her neighbor to approach her about participating in pageants. A new world to her considering she had never competed in a pageant before but she was up for the challenge and started working on her platform. For those of you, like me, that aren’t familiar with pageant lingo the contestants “platform” is the cause they support and speak about. Kaley’s platform is childhood sexual abuse prevention, as it is something she is passionate about. 

Very different from your normal pageant girl, she has an addiction to board sports that stems from her husband Jimmi, who has always been passionate about board sports. She caught the addiction herself too after starting to wakesurf with him in 2008. In 2009, after practicing a few times a week behind their Centurion Enzo for a year, she signed them up for the NWWSA wakesurf competition and made the drive up to Seattle where Jimmi took first place at the event. Always supporting each other’s dreams and goals, Kaley would start competing in pageants the following year too.

Hosting the 2013 World Wakesurfing Awards

Kaley & Jimmi Sparling

Photo not owned by Boarders

Kaley's husband Jimmi at 2013 Worlds

Kaley airing out!

Photo not owned by Boarders.

What does it take for a relatively small town girl to become Mrs. World?

Taking on pageants in Idaho to claim the state title of Mrs. Idaho was the first step to moving on to the national stage to compete for Mrs. America. The pageants are judged by the following: 50% of your score is based off the interview with judges while the other 50% comes from they way you carry yourself in your evening attire and swim wear. Kaley competed against 51 other contestants on the national level earning first runner up for Mrs. America. When it came time to head to China to compete for Mrs. World, the other contestant was unable to go and Kaley happily stepped up for America and boarded a plane to China to go claim the title of Mrs. World. After two weeks in China, Kaley returned to the US with a new accomplishment and the title of Mrs. World! 

Photo not owned by Boarders

How many pageant women do you know that snowboard, ride flowboards, SUP, compete in wakesurf events, and have on their resume: “ announcer of the 2013 World Wakesurf Championships”? Just Kaley! Also, Jimmi brought home skateboards not too long ago and is teaching Kaley and their 2 children Jack Danger and Madison to skateboard as a family. The wakesurf world is very lucky to have awesome people like the Sparling's to help grow the sport we all love & we look forward to the future with them and their kids pushing the sport too!

Kaley would like to thank her husband for always supporting her & her wakesurf sponsors for all of their help! Centurion Boats, Soulcraft Boarding, & Agenda Surf!

On Stage at the Wakesurf Awards

Kaley with her Soulcraft Teammates

Photo: Tim V. Walker

Announcing World Wakesurf Championships w/ Todd Gaughan from Centurion Boats

By: Danny Braught