Standup Paddle Magazine • V10N2

BLUESMITHS: MAUI PADDLE IMUA S TA N D U P P A D D L E M A G A Z I N E

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S U M M E R B R E A KO U T : N A I S H ’ S N E W B OA R D L I N E U P F O R 2 0 1 9

breakout

A PADDLE FROM DENMARK TO NORWAY

VOL10Nº2/U.S. $10.95/CAN $12.95

A REID INOUYE PUBLICATION

NAISH’S NEW BOARD LINEUP FOR 2019

CASPER STEINFATH’S ODYSSSEY

Beauty

2018LINEUP

(844) YOLO-BOARD | YOLOBOARD.COM

Beast

(844) YOLO-BOARD | YOLOBIKE.COM

JULY 29 2018 | 32 MILES

DESTI N AT I O N North Sea — Kattegat/Atlantic Ocean

:: SKAGERRAK ::

The Skagerrak is a strait running between the southeast coast of Norway, the southwest coast of Sweden and the Jutland peninsula of Denmark, connecting the North Sea and the Kattegat sea area, which leads to the Baltic Sea. Here in the cold of the night is where The Danish Viking, Casper Steinfath conquered fear and discovered what it took to match Mother Nature’s ultimate challenge. Photo: Fredrik Clement

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M A ST H E A D VOLUME 10Nยบ2

PUBLISHER Reid Inouye EDITOR Paul Ensyde MANAGING EDITOR Lucy Lucille DESIGN First in Flight Creative ADVISORS NUTRITION COACH Scott Estrada YOGA INSTRUCTOR Anna Levesque TRAINERS Casi Rynkowski

STAFF WRITERS Jim Freeman, Paul Ensyde STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Jim Freeman, Eric Haka, Paul Ensyde CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BLUESMITHS, Ole Wejse Svarrer CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Frankie Bees, Fredrik Clement, Lyle Krannichfeld, Quincy Dein, Stephen Whitesell, Jose Morales, Photo808.me, PhotoFairy, Peter Gramstrup, Hans Hoite Augustenborg SALES sales@standuppaddlemagazine.com EDITORIAL AND CONTRIBUTION CONTACT info@standuppaddlemagazine.com SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

$39.95 includes shipping in the United States of America.

Printed quarterly. Subscriptions@standuppaddlemagazine.com

STANDUP PADDLE MAGAZINE LLC A REID INOUYE PUBLICATION P.O. Box 23083, Honolulu, HI 96823 contact info@standuppaddlemagazine.com printed in Hong Kong Copyright 2018

S TA N D U P PA D D L E M A G A Z I N E . C O M

facebook.com/standuppaddlemagazine instagram.com/standuppaddlemagazine twitter.com/supmagazine pinterest.com/spmagazine ISSN 2372-2274

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

While the experience of SUP is an exhilarating one, water safety and knowledge is essential. As an experienced paddler utilize the knowledge of water safety management, it could save someone’s life. PHOTO: HAKA

PLAY IT SAFE THIS

SUMMER We see it happen all the time — people unassumingly paddling out into the water on a paddleboard. They start drifting further and further into the abyss, also known as the danger zone more often than not clueless. The scenario can play out like any of the following: a lake, while calm near the shoreline, suddenly 100 meters out begins pulling unsuspecting paddler out with the wind, or offshore from a riverbank and into the fast-moving current. In Hawaii, it could be a Waikiki Mai Tai ready for a fun time, then suddenly they are caught in the surf zone getting pummeled with no PFD, no leash and worst of all, no common

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knowledge of water safety.

This may or may not be you. If you have the knowledge — please pass it on to those who you suspect may well be on their way to getting in trouble, sooner than later. Offer warning, advice or tell the local lifeguard on duty. Most of all, utilize the knowledge of water safety management, it could save someone’s life.

Have a great summer, Reid Inouye Publisher, Standup Paddle Magazine

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C O NT E NTS V O L U M E

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12 OPENING SHOT 16 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 20 HOW TO Scott Estrada: Fueling with Dates

Casi Rynkowski: Step Away From The Dumbell

Anna Levesque: Glute Strengtheners

28 PRODUCT REVIEW

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40 NAISH’S BREAKOUT 2019 New Board Lineup In Pictorial

60 BLUESMITHS PADDLE IMUA A Benefit Race For Kids With Special Needs

70 A SCANDINAVIAN ODYSSEY

Casper Steinfath From Denmark to Norway

ON THIS PAGE: “Make everyday an adventure. There should be “NO” excuses — get outside and feel Mother Nature’s Raw energy. Careful, it can be very addicting.”

Chuck Patterson, Naish Athlete. Photo: Frankiebees.

ON THE COVER: “Whatever the reason, whatever the impulse, wherever the water takes you... this is your moment. Make it extraordinary.” —Robby Naish

On Maui’s North Shore you can sometimes catch Robby Naish testing out the ride on his new board designs. Since 1979, Naish has been crafting the tools for you to heighten each and every one of those cherished moments. Fine-tuning every curve, edge and seam along the way, each product is thoughtfully constructed, not only to excel in the moment, but to stand the test of time. Photo: Frankiebees.

H O W TO H EA LT H w i t h Scott Estrada

DATES:: WISE PADDLE FUEL The magical date is one of the oldest foods given to humanity. Dates have sustained cultures near and far for ages. The processed and engineered modern food landscape has shadowed these gems in recent years but nothing man made can come close to the perfection of this simple nourishing food.

A pure digestive tonic, their powerful fiber, and anti-parasitic action sweep through the colon binding to yeast, mold, fungus, heavy metals, unwanted bacteria, viruses and other pathogens.

Rich in over 50 trace minerals dates support organ and gland function — especially adrenals. Super heart-healthy potassium and an array of amino acids feed muscle cells and help wash away lactic acid build up from stress or training. A strong anti-cancer fruit and disease prevention tool because of their deep nutrient density and healthy fiber levels.

All digestive function is greatly supported by eating dates regularly. Their unique

delivery of glucose to the liver helps people with hypoglycemia and diabetes, even though this is widely misunderstood.

You will find dates the perfect fuel for active, healthy-minded people wanting quick fuel on the go. Take some on your adventures and love and live well fueled on dates. Perfect for air travel where nutritious food can be hard to find — you’ll never be unsatisfied by this sweet treat I like to call Gods Gu, the real fuel source. Pop a macadamia in the middle and it’s the ideal blend of nutrients to fuel longer endurance needs like races or hikes.

Try eating three before your next meditation of choice and go with it.

Dates are a paddler’s choice for top fuel since they travel and pack well. Pop a few in a reusable container and hit the water. Eat six to seven on a longer paddle and your energy, focus, and endurance won’t be an issue.

Dates will shield us from negative vibes and help us to release built up negative/toxic emotions like fear, shame, and guilt; they are a great builder to our sense of purpose and enthusiasm.

Sharing these nuggets is a gift as you witness people light up with happiness and satisfaction. Dates are selflessness food — go forth and give away the bounty of good, live in abundance!

For info on this or other health/nutrition topics email Scott Estrada scott@risesup.com / Instagram: @scott_estrada

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H O W TO TRAINING with Casi Rynkowski

STEP AWAY FROM THE DUMBBELL!:: I see this too often at the gym — folks robbing themselves of the great benefits of kettle belIs by passing them up for dumbbells. Next to a rowing machine, kettle bells are one of the most valuable pieces of equipment in the gym. Once you understand why and how kettle bells work, you will get more out of each exercise than is possible with dumbbells alone.

Kettle bells train movement not muscles. Ever try to run and catch a bus while pushing a carriage and carrying heavy bags? Real-life movements are complicated, multi-dimensional, and often unpredictable so why the heck would you not train for it? KB training does just that. The placement of the handle on the kettle bell allows you to swing it forward, back, up and down. It essentially becomes and extension of your arm, providing you with a wide range of motion. Grip strength comes into play as well. You have to hold on for acceleration, ease up for deceleration and adjust your grip during complicated movement patterns. Being able to leverage your grip while paddling is important. Over gripping can cause elbow and shoulder injuries, not to mention waste energy Kettle bell workouts are calorie incinerators. They work both your aerobic and anaerobic energy systems.

It’s strength training and cardio combined. A KB workout can burn up to 20 calories a minute, which equals 1200 calories per hour. The average weight training session burns between 180 to 300 calories an hour. Kettle bells are also a great way to build strength without bulk.

This makes KB a no brainer cross-training choice for paddling. It’s a solid form of interval training which is essential for SUP racing or paddling in challenging conditions.

Kettle bell exercises are truly unique. Movements are split into categories: ballistic, grinds, and hybrids.

Ballistic movements are multi-joint movements that are explosive and dynamic in nature like the kettle bell swing and snatch. Acceleration and deceleration are part of the movement pattern. These movements also tax the cardiovascular system. Grinds are performed slowly, in a controlled manner. They force you to maintain tension when transitioning weights between various muscle groups - the Turkish Getup is an excellent example.

Hybrid movements are a combination of both. All three styles have big benefits for a paddler. Most importantly, they connect your hands to your feet. These movements create stability, strength, and power through your core, working it in ways you may not be used to. This connection is an essential requirement for paddling. Your feet and legs are used to create drive on the board while you are leveraging power with your paddle on the water.

The connection is your core. Nothing trains this chain as well as kettle bells. You won’t be able to gain these connection benefits by lying on a weight bench, sitting on a spin bike, or doing isolated muscle exercises.

Training smart will allow you to take your paddling performance to the next level. Don’t just pick up equipment and go through the motions, be smart, seek knowledge.

Kettle bells are a unique training tool for any fitness level and will provide you with incredible results.

Since 2007, Casi Rynkowski has been living her dream as a personal trainer, training athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those who want to live a healthier lifestyle. Her passion for outdoor fitness exploded when she launched her business, exposing clients to the idea of fitness outside the gym box. Casi is an ACA level 2 stand up paddle instructor and an AFAA certified personal trainer. She is sponsored by BIC Sport - BIC SUP/SIC, Werner Paddles, MTI Adventurewear, NRS, Unsinkable Polarized and Virus Sports Performance. She is also the BIC Sport Ambassador Team Manager for BIC SUP and SIC. www.casiperformancetraining.com

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H O W TO Y OGA w it h An n a L e v e sq u e

SIDE PLANK VARIATIONS:: GLUTE STRENGTHENERS the knee. When the TFL and IT band are overworked on a regular basis because the glutes aren’t doing their job, the IT band becomes tight, painful and inflamed. Since I was experiencing pain in my IT band I was rolling it out with a foam roller even though that felt painful too. I had assumed that the foam roller was the way to go. Unfortunately I didn’t realize that I was making the situation worse by over-stretching fascia that was already inflamed. In addition to the foam rolling I was also incorporating yoga poses like pigeon into my practice that were also exacerbating the problem.

After only a week of incorporating glute strengtheners into my practice the pain in my IT band started to subside. I eliminated

stretches like pigeon and focused on firing up my glutes instead of stretching them and I experienced a whole new world! I began practicing yoga while standing on my SUP with soft knees and an awareness of pressing down through my heels and big toes to activate the backs of my legs. I discovered a strength and stability that I had not experienced before. My paddling is more powerful and faster. There is no more pain during or after paddling and I feel stronger on and off my board.

Here are a few of my favorite glute strengthening exercises/poses that helped me heal my IT band and fire up my glutes for better paddle performance!

SQUATS Place your feet hip or sits bones distance apart.

Squat keeping the knees over the ankles or keeping your shins ‘straight’ and take your butt back (I tell my students to stick their butts out like they’re bootie dancing). Don’t focus on how low you go in your squat, but on keeping your shins straight so that your glutes fire. Press down through your heels to come back up and keep your big toes pressing in the ground the whole time. Do 10 repetitions at a time.

As your glutes get stronger you can experiment with going lower.

CHAIR POSE In the same vein as squats you can incorporate chair pose and chair twist into your practice with the same principles and positioning as the squats above. Hold the poses for five deep and easy breathes and as you get stronger work up to holding for one minute.

ONE-LEGGED BRIDGE POSE LIFTS One of the best exercises for strengthening the glutes. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Extend your left leg up toward the ceiling. Press through your right heel and big toe to lift your hips up off the floor and then set your hips back down. Repeat 10 times on each side.

PHOTOS: SCOTT MARTIN

The first time my PT/Yoga Therapist told me I had ‘sleepy’ glutes I didn’t believe her.

How was it possible that a paddling athlete/ Yoga teacher like me who SUPs, kayaks, hikes, mountain bikes and practices Yoga on a regular basis could have weak glutes?

And anyway, I was in her office because I was experiencing excruciating pain in my IT band, not in my glutes.

She explained to me (and I later did more research), that it is common for even the strongest athletes to have gluteus medius that don’t fire properly or don’t fire at all. Instead, a muscle called the tensor fascia latae (TFL) picks up the slack and, in turn, tightens the iliotibial band (IT) that runs down the side of the leg and acts as a stabilizer for

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Anna is the author of Yoga for Paddling, now available online in reputable outfitters. She is an ACA SUP Instructor Trainer, and RYT 500 With Yoga Alliance and founder of Mind Body Paddle. Anna has been paddling and practicing yoga for over 20 years. For more information visit www.mindbodypaddle.com

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RINSEKIT RINSEKIT.COM

LUX SOFT TOTE RinseKit introduces the LUX, a brand new soft tote design. It has 50% more spray time than the original RinseKit (up to 8 minutes on the center setting) and is full of features. They include the hot water sink adapter. The Eon™ pressure chamber has two 1-inch accessory ports to accommodate RinseKit’s upcoming accessories — a heater system that plugs into a car accessory adapter and a hand pump system which allows users to fill and pressurize their unit remotely, without access to a hose bib or sink. The LUX has two outside pockets, a shoulder strap, a quick access double zipper top and two side handles for convenience when loading it into a vehicle.

Adding to it’s versatility, the LUX doubles as a soft cooler. The full zip top allows the pressure chamber to be easily removed allowing the Tote to be the perfect cooler when it’s time to chill some beers. We utilized the accessories below, driving to the beach with the Hot Rod Water Heater plugged in. Our water was hot and ready for showering by the time we got out of the water. Be sure to give the tank a swirl to make sure the water is heated evenly.

The heating rod shuts off automatically with 30/60/90 minute timer. Retails for $159.95

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HOT ROD WATER HEATER RINSEKIT’s new heater quickly and safely heats the water in a RinseKit to a comfortable shower temperature.

Works with all RinseKit models. Plugs you’re your 12-Volt power socket, no batteries required, runs off your car and comes with an 8-foot long power cord. Retails for $69.95

PRESSURE BOOSTER PUMP RINSEKIT’s new Pressure Booster Pump allows users to pressurize their RinseKit without access to a hose bib or sink. Retails for $34.95

TUFF TRUCK BAG TUFFTRUCKBAG.COM

TUFF TRUCK BAG The Tuff Truck Bag is one of the easiest solutions for pick-up truck storage. Measuring at 40” x 50” x 22” (26 cubic feet of storage) this bag has enough room to hold anything you want to throw in it. It’s waterproof, heavy duty, non-breathable PVC material and all seams are watertight sealed using heat fusion and epoxy. One of the selling points we liked about the Tuff Truck Bag are the solid metal truck bag corner rings which allows it to secure to the bed of your truck using the adjustable bungee cords that are included with each bag. Nothing rolling around in the bed of your truck and nothing cluttering up the cab. Set it up when you need a truck bed cover, break it down and store it when you don’t. Retails for $199.95

TUFF TOTE DRY BAG DUFFLE 60L This dry bag duffle makes it easy to use without digging through your bag while keeping the water out. The Tuff Tote Dry Bag is made with a similar manufacturing process as the Tuff Truck Bag using heat welded seams and features a Class-3 Waterproof roll down waterproof opening on the top of the bag. There is no metal on the bags, which eliminates the issue of rusty zippers. It has a convenient shoulder strap with a neoprene pad, side compression straps and handle. The roll down enclosure promises a secure watertight seal. 60L capacity and retails for $79.99 STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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OLUKAI

ROOTBLUE

OLUKAI.COM

ROOTBLUE.ORG

KAHIKIOLU (KAH-HEE-KO-LOO) TRANSLATION: THREE IN ONE One of Olukai’s new summer collections that doesn’t disappoint. Available in three colors, Peach/ Tan, Slate/Tan and Sting/Tan. The Kakikiolu sandal is a thong sandal with soft leather that doesn’t dig into your skin and has super comfortable soles with a moderate arch and are true to size. We tested them all day walking around and have no complaints.

Retails for $110.00, the biggest problem you’ll encounter with OluKai is choosing what style to go with!

HUAKA (HOO-AH-KAH) TRANSLATION: BRIGHT, DAZZLING New this season is OluKai’s Huaka, a versatile sneaker mule, refined with sophistication and finished with details excellence. Loved this feel of this shoe and it fits true to size. The canvas is from their premium cotton canvas and is breathable, natural and lightweight combined with full-grain leather. We like the fact that it has a non-marking rubber outsole with traction for wet conditions. Another plus for us is their removable and completely washable footbed. Perfect to go with a new summer dress or a pair of jeans. Comes in two colors, Silt/Tapa or Black/Dark Shadow. Retails for $95.00

Rootblue began in Reno when the founders Nate Deaton and Nate Bessette decided to provide the world with a product that the average person could easily afford and give back to the environment. Rootblue bottles keeps cold beverages chilled for up to 24 hours and is double wall vacuum insulated weighing in at 1 pound. Don’t want something chill?

It will also keep your coffee or tea hot for up to 12 hours. Rootblue also offers you promotional bottles for your business by making it customizable. 10% of their profits go straight back to the environment by support KTMB (Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful), a non-profit organization in Reno, NV that focuses on the preservation of the environmental quality of both the Truckee Meadows and the river that runs through it. They also support the Tahoe Fund, another non-profit organization located in North Lake Tahoe that works with donors and small businesses in the Reno-Tahoe area to help preserve the beauty and eco-system Lake Tahoe has to offer. 25 oz Rootblue Bottle comes with a paracord handle you choose the colors they offer, retails for $30.00. High quality that doesn’t come at a high price!

HONEY GIRL

HONEYGIRLWATERWEAR.COM

TEAM RIDER: EUNHAE KELLEY • PHOTOGRAPHER: RYAN BEPPU

Eunhae is wearing Teya Reversible Sport Top and matching Rebecca Hi-Rise Capri Leggings, Print: Gardenia Rust. Perfect every time for when she’s on the water. If you are an older waterwomen or younger you will

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appreciate the workmanship and fit of designer/owner Lousia Ngum. Made in the USA, UPF 50+, and 4-way stretch nylon/spandex.

The Teya Reversible Sport Top has a strappy back with cross-center front, wear it inside out, solid Rust. Retails for $46

The Rebecca Hi-Rise Capri has solid fabric inside the waistband, which can be folded down for an adjustable rise.

Retails for $60

Healthy Suncare

people love to wear.

Located in Sunny & Cool San Diego, CA +17609402125 hello@coolasuncare.com www.coolasuncare.com

SEAL LINE

PERSONAL PACKTOWL Packtowl’s Personal towel is a quick-drying microfiber towel on the market, and with good reason. You will find the Personal ultraversatile, absorbent, and superfast-drying performance make it great for any activity, including camping, travel, fitness, swimming and more. The Personal’s absorbent fabric soak up to four times its weight in water and can be wrung out easily with a hang loop for easy drying. We love the fact that it dries faster than your comparable cotton towel and then rolls up easily to store away in its own travel pouch. Perfect towel for our on the go outdoor lifestyle. Available in hand, face, body and beach sizes or you can opt for the body/ face set. Retails from $9.95 - $44.95

SEALLINEGEAR.COM

BLOCKERLITE™ COMPRESSION DRY SACK New for 2018 is Seal Line’s Blockerlite™ Compression Dry Sacks — waterproof, ultra light packing organization at its finest. This compression dry sack protects essential backpacking and hiking gear like clothing and sleeping bags, while the Continuous Compression system reduces overall volume for maximum packing efficiency. You’ll find our favorite feature the PurgeAir™ valve on this sacks and we like the featherweight 20D silicone and polyurethane-coated nylon that delivers waterproof protection. If you need lightweight this gear bag is for you! Available in three sizes: 5L, 10L, 20L and retails from $29.95 - $36.95

BLOCKER™ ZIP SACK Another new item for 2018 the Blocker Zip Sack offers the easiest access to its interior with its wide-mouth opening making it the perfect part of a packing system to organize toiletries, camp kitchen essentials, or a first aid kit for a SUP exploration trip or van life. Choose from three sizes: small, medium, large and retails from $14.95 to $21.95

SHELTA HATS

RAPTOR The Raptor is a Limited Edition Style and a direct result of their Test Pilots input. While the aggressive brim shape offers a bit more brim width than the Osprey and Phoenix it still provides clearance around the head for paddling or casting. We liked the Feather Tech fabric with it’s side venting and interior mesh panels which makes it one of their lightest hats for super hot days. Our favorite features on all Shelta Hats is the, No Flop Brim Technology, which we’ve tested it out in the strongest winds in Hawaii and we love the fact that it floats! Retails for $64.50

SHELTAHATS.COM

SHADE MULLET Shelta’s Shade Mullet is made from their featherweight fabric and attaches to the Shelta cord system. This lightweight fabric offers UPF 50+ UV protection and can be worn as a neck shield to protect the back of the neck or filled over to protect the face. A lightweight alternative to the traditional face gaiter or tube.

Comes in seven different colours. Retails for $15.50

FACE GAITER Not only does Shelta make a functional sun-protection hats now they offer you face gaiters too. Made from lightweight, moisture wicking stretch fabric with laser-cut breathing holes.

The breathable fabric offers UPF 50 protection and covers the top of your nose down to your neckline with enough height in the back to fit over cap or under your sun hat. Retails for $26.50

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ASTRAL

VIBRAM

LOYAK M’S Astral has designed another great water shoe. It’s a challenge to find a good-looking light and yet snug water shoe but you’ll find them in the Loyak M’s. A low volume, high performance shoe providing durability, superlative grip, and supreme comfort on water or land. The self-draining, Flex-Grip™outsole promotes excellent balance and ground feel. Indestructible, hydrophobic canvas uppers are securely held to your feet with a stretch mesh tongue and flat laces provide a reliable fit. Perfect on/in the water and for land. Keep in mind shoes fit true to size when ordering and we didn’t have to be concerned with any rub spots to break the shoe in. If you’re setting off to explore unknown waterways you’ll find the Loyak M’s a good shoe for packing as it doesn’t take up much space. Retails for $85.00 and well-worth every penny!

V-AQUA Vibram’s V-Aqua is their new design for 2018. Specifically designed as an amphibious shoe for natural movement in and out of the water while moving across a variety of terrain, we found it easy to get from the rocky beach to the water with out risk of injury or where the water might run a little murky before you paddle out and not sure what lies along the shoreline. It’s light and flexible. If you haven’t worn a Vibram shoe it may take a little bit getting use to and getting those toes in the proper place but once you’ve mastered that you might never go anywhere without them.

Their Megagrip Sole allows water to move quickly through the shoe for quick drying and the silicone print within the lining prevents added internal slippage. Great for anyplace you don’t want to be barefoot. Runs small so be sure to order a size up! Retails for $90.00.

ASTRALDESIGNS.COM

VIBRAM.COM

STREAM WATERPROOF MP3 PLAYER WITH BLUETOOTH When I get out and paddle my favorite sound is nature so it doesn’t seem natural to want to bring a device to play music. So when we were asked to try the Stream I wasn’t sure I would like it so much. I took the time to load up my favorite playlist for powering out in the gym (which was an easy enough task – note it has a memory capacity of over 2,000 songs), then loaded up my board and paddle and set out for the place I do sprint laps. It was a gusty day and I knew paddling back would be a workout and I’d have to set a steady cadence.

Music helps me do that. I enjoyed the simple fact that it has a 360 Snap-Clip you can literally attach it to anything, if you swim – your goggles, your swimsuit, boardshorts or your favorite waterwear. Stream is small, compact and light. You don’t even realize that it’s there.

I can shuffle my music or just play it the way I loaded it. If I’m not on the water I can Bluetooth with my phone. I powered through my paddle workout and didn’t even notice the wind. The Stream doesn’t come with headphones so you’ll either want to use your own or try one of H2O Audio’s headphone options. Oh, and the price won’t break the bank, retails for $79.99 ~Lucy, Managing Editor

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H2O AUDIO H2OAUDIO.COM

SU RG E+ WATE R PROOF S PORT HEADPHONES I am not a headphones person and usually have difficulty with keeping earbuds in so I was surprised to discover that these headphones are super low profile, lightweight and have waterproof durability and the sound is surprisingly clear and not tinny at all. I liked that they had five ear tip sizes and a tree tip (my favorite) because it keeps the headphones in place during even the most rigorous of activities. Wind and paddling didn’t affect them and though the cord was long I didn’t find myself tangled up in it when switching my paddle stroke. I tested the headphones with the cord in the front and behind me and didn’t find a difference at all. The cord length is 3.6 feet and the headphones can withstand heavy perspiration and complete submersion to 12 feet underwater with a waterproof rating of IPX8. Retails for $49.99

BUI LT

FOR

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Jamie in Leadbetter Oasis Kaenon.com

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www.mahiku.com

GLIM WATER

RX BARS

While we’re waters biggest fan for hydration we love other healthy options. GLIM water introduced us to three products to help keep your best performance optimal: Activated Charcoal Water, Turmeric Water, and Colloidal Silver Water.

Activated Charcoal Water is the result of GLIM’s desire to produce a source of hydration that has been enhanced with detoxification properties that cleanse your system. Activated charcoal has remarkable detoxification properties. Now you can quench your thirst while getting rid of harmful toxins in your body. It is safe for everyone (no side effects), no taste, contains ten calories and an amazing cleansing power that will keep you looking younger and healthier. We liked drinking this right after we got off the water from a distance paddle session.

GLIM’s Turmeric Water is fortified with 100% naturally sourced Turmeric extracts. Free radicals must be flushed out from your system; turmeric is a nutritional supplement which eliminates free radicals, it has anti-inflammatory properties which prevent aching joints. The flavor of the Turmeric Water is not overwhelming but pleasant.

Colloidal Silver has been proven to have potent antibiotic properties. GLIM’s third product has been enhanced with colloidal silver. Stay hydrated with a product that increases your body’s resilience to diseases. In the spring we tested this while combating the onset of the latest cold/flu bug going around and began drinking this immediately.

We were even more thrilled with the fact that we caught it early enough to keep us from getting sick.

To be honesty we saw these bars sitting at the counter at Coffee Bean and Tea. Their packaging caught our attention, (clean and simple packaging and the ingredients listed on the front — 3 Egg Whites, 8 Hazelnuts, 2 Cashews, 2 Dates, NO B.S.) When they asked us try them out we couldn’t say no. We were not disappointed. We like that they don’t claim to be a prescription for anything and that they promise to give you clean food you can count on and that they’re upfront about everything they do inside and out. Their ingredients are the right combination and flavors that are yummy — nothing you have to choke down and no fillers, you’re getting exactly what you asked for. We ate these on the run from the office to the water; we ate them when we didn’t have time for a meal while meeting deadlines to tide us over. They have sizes for kids and adults in a variety of delectable flavors. We can’t tell you which is our favorite because we tried eating our way through the sampler only to say, “Oh, I think this is my favorite,” but then eating another one and saying the same thing. We recommend ordering a sample pack to get a variety. The have a Chocolate Pack if you’re partial to chocolate or The Anything But Peanuts Pack or you could just go for the farm and order the Whole30 Pack. If you order online they offer free samples and shipping with every order — that’s an offer you can’t pass up!

DRINKGLIM.COM

BRAMO ORGANIC COLD BREW COFFEE BRAMOCOFFEE.COM

It’s safe to say we like coffee. Hot, cold, espresso shots, cold brew we like it all if it’s done right. It’s part of our lifestyle. Bramo Coffee’s mantra — Coffee for your lifestyle and fits right in with how we feel about coffee. Bramo offers their organic cold brew in 12 ounce ready to drink aluminum bottles and also a 1.5-liter ready to drink stand up spigot bags making it for easy storage in your fridge. We sampled the 12-ounce Bottle Variety 6-Pack. Assorted flavors consisted of the Original Black, Vanilla and Raw Cacao. While there are no added sugars, extracts or dairy creamers and definitely no preservatives we found the flavor smooth and not at all bitter. If you are a fan of cold brew coffee this is worth looking into.

We also appreciated the fact that their cold brew is Fair Trade and organic certified and they support environmental sustainability and local communities.

If you are interested in trying it you can find a store locator on their website or order directly from them.

Cold brew coffee at it’s finest!

SWELL COFFEE COMPANY SWELLCOFFEECO.COM From the sands of sunny San Diego comes a coffee company specializing in speciality roasted fresh coffee beans.

Founded by John Vallas, Swell was born from his passion to live life to it’s fullest — friends, family, surf, good health and great coffee. They truly have coffee roasting down to science and passion. Here is how they explain it. “It’s like love at first crack. Coffee beans near their magically delicious flavor at first crack?” So what the hell is first crack? “Similar to popping corn, at first crack the bean expands and releases energy which signals to their crafty roasters that the flavors they have built are group-hugging. This is the point when caramelization and browning do their dance to merge into freshly roasted superstars.” Now if that explanation flies over your head just hold on to it in the recesses of your mind and brew a cup. Then sip. Hold onto the flavor and

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remember that little note you tucked away in the back of your mind. Get it now? We did. Keep in mind if you are making a cup of espresso with these beans be sure not to over pack your portafilter to tight. Our first attempt of trying these beans was bitter and burnt (clearly operator error), however after we managed to get the combination right — turned out to be one of the smoothest espresso shots we ever had. To be on the safe we tested four more times just to make sure. That entire flavor group-hugging thing and caramelization is real! A good place to start is go to their website and try their Sample Pack for a mere $15.00 with six different flavors to choose from in 2 ounce sizes. You can find which flavor tantalizes your taste buds. Be aware that SWELL is roasted and shipped fresh weekly. If you’d rather hit them up in person check out their locations in Mission Beach or Del Mar. It’s Swell!

RXBAR.COM

GRAND TRUNK HAMMOCK

ECUDANE

ONEMADE DOUBLE TRUNKTECH™ HAMMOCK Grand Trunk made this with adventure in mind. Featuring their TRUNKTECH™ Nylon, that’s durable, breathable, silky and smooth. This fabric utilizes a mirco - ripstop design that allows for maximum tensile strength while at the same time qualifying for ‘ultra-light’ status — essentially they’ve made the Unicorn of hammock fabrics - making it the lightest double hammock on the market!

Cinched at the ends with continuous webbing loops featuring T70 seatbelt automotive-grade seatbelt stitching. Supports 400 pounds. Doesn’t matter where you are traveling near or far you will love this hammock and it’s durability.

Worth every penny! Retails for $119.95 Trunk Straps sold separately and are colorful and tree friendly, PU coated poly with lifetime warranty. Bulky stands and huge rolls of rope can take the fun out of hammocking. With Grand Trunk’s tree straps, you can quickly and easily hang your hammock anywhere you want, whenever you want—without the hassle. These colorful hammock tree straps allow you to hang your hammock farther apart. Trunk Straps retail for $29.95

THE EVERYWHERE BLANKET (TUNGURAHUA) The Everywhere Blanket is manufactured in a small family owned facility in Otavalo, Ecuador where the indigenous Otavaleño people have been weavers since pre-Incan times. It is the belief of the Otavaleño culture that Mather Nature or Pachamama, is important as a human being; full of life, strength and soul.

They do not seek to dominate the environment but to coexist with it. Therefore, The Everywhere Blanket is created using only high-recycled content materials.

This is the perfect blanket if you’re into the “vanlife” movement, and not only is it soft and versatile it’s also a piece of art. We found it becomes softer after each washing (be sure to do so only in cold water!). Wonderful for any cool evening if you’re not doing the “vanlife” but want to cozy up this blanket is for you. Ten dollars from your purchase will be donated to Baca Ortiz Children’s Hospital in Quito Ecuador to provide care for children in the community. Retails for $129.99

GRANDTRUNK.COM

ECUDANE.COM

• Wiregate Carabiners • Continuous Loops Featuring T70 AutomotiveGrade Seatbelt Stitching • 100% Trunk Tech Ripstop: a proprietary design, strong & lightweight 1.1oz Ripstop Nylon • Holds 40 lbs. of static weight per square inch • 100% Made in America • Lifetime Warranty

AIRFREE

KAENON

Airfree Iris 3000 is an amazing powerful air purifier and can clean the air in a room up 650 sq. feet. This is not your everyday purifier; it is the natural solution to asthma, respiratory allergies and mold. Eliminates dust mites, bacteria, fungi, virus, pollen, allergens of domestic animals and other microorganisms from the air. Airfree Iris uses their patented Thermodynamic TSS Technology destroys mold, dust mites, bacteria, viruses, pollens, pet dander, tobacco and other organic allergens. Airfree also reduces indoor harmful ozone levels without requiring any filters or maintenance and it’s completely silent, yes completely silent. We were amazed at how much easier breathing was with this running around the clock, it’s a good thing the Airfree is low energy consumption. Small and portable to move into any room you need. Retails starting at $279.00

CLARKE Mid-century modern with a coastal twist. Clarke is activelifestyle driven and retro-inspired, with a 6-base frame that delivers go-anywhere performance for almost any face.

Featured are the Carbon frames with the ULTRA Pacific Blue Mirror. Unique to Kaenon their purpose-driven lens tints are offered in various levels of color contrast from neutral to extreme and are designed to meet your needs in any environment. The new Ultra Blue Mirror has a grey base and enhances overall color and contrast while allowing for better perception of warm colors in intense blue environments. If you’re looking for phenomenal sunglass for stand-up paddling, deep water fishing, or cycling give this lens a try. All of Kaenon’s eyewear has the SR-91® lens offers superior polarization which gives you the unparalleled clarity and glare reduction that’s #builtforoutsiders! Retails for $209

AIRFREE.COM

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KAENON.COM

PHOTO BY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

SHOP of the YEAR

BABYLON VILLAGE, NY

SALES . RENTALS . LESSONS . YOGA SUP AND SURF LIFESTYLE CLOTHING 258 EAST MAIN STREET, BABYLON VILLAGE, NY 631-482-1822 WWW.SOUTHSHOREPADDLEBOARDS.COM

summer P H O TO S B Y F R A N K I E B E E S

NAISH’S NEW BOARD

If there’s one thing that keeps Naish moving forward with design, technology and progression it’s that the people behind it, along with their test pilots have a keen sense of understanding how to move a board on and above water especially in their R&D center aka: the Hawaiian waters. Not only do they pull information via riders but the fact also holds true to the design team who build product, incredible watermen and women in their own right, allowing the company to stay on the leading edge of pure madness and fun on water.

b r e a ko u t LINEUP FOR 2019 Bernd Roediger charges on the Maliko — ideal for advanced to pro-level athletes, this board is designed to keep riders at their peak through sprints and long-distance runs.

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MAD DOG SHAPER, DESIGNERS: From the minds and water developmental team of Robby Naish and Michi Schweiger.

WHAT IS THIS BOARD USED: Performance wave riding. The Mad Dog is made for staying in the pocket and making tight, aggressive turns.

SIZE RANGE AND DIMENSIONS: 7’10” x 29” x 4 ¼” (101L) 8’1” x 29” x 4 ½” (111L) 8’6” x 29” x 4 ¾” (121L) 8’11” x 29” x 4 ¾” (130L)

Robby Naish left, Bernd Roediger right.

Robby Naish — is it work or play? Or a little of both?

THINK FAST WITH A LOT OF DRIVE FOR THE SKILLED AND DEMANDING RIDER”.

— DESIGN TEAM

Says Publisher Reid Inouye about Robby Naish, “Robby has been on the water all his life. Surf, SUP, Windsurf, Kite, Foiling. Kailua, Hawaii born and raised, these photos allow you to understand his feel for water and what makes the Mad Dog react to his command, a true master.”

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Gerry Lopez Designer of the Hokua. Photo: Stephen Whitesell

HOKUA SERIES SIZE CONSTRUCTION 8’6” x 28 ¼” (108L) GTW/ALANA GTW 9’0” x 29” (126L) GTW 9’6” x 29 ¾”, 32.5” (145L) GTW/GSX/ALANA GSX

DESIGNER FEEDBACK: Gerry Lopez designed the Hokua GTW’s. The shape has a large sweet spot making it very stable and a fast rocker for getting in to waves early and easily. The word “Flow” really comes to mind when describing what it’s like to ride these boards, everything just feels smooth whether you’re driving off the bottom or laying into the rail on the top of the wave.

“THE HOKUA” SERIES ARE GREAT BOARDS FOR ANY REAL SURF. THEY DRIVE NICELY OFF THE FRONT FOOT, WHILE PROVIDING A GOOD, SNAPPY TOP TURN OF THE TAIL. THEIR LARGE SWEET SPOT MAKES THEM ADJUSTABLE TO MANY SURFING STYLES IN COMBINATION WITH THE OPTION TO RIDE THEM AS THRUSTERS (INCLUDED) OR QUAD FIN SETUPS.” —ROBBY NAISH Julian Bouyer testing out the Hokua GTW.

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Annie and the Alana 10’8” GSX

Annie catching a glide on the Nalu 10’8” GSX

THE NALU IS THE ORIGINAL NAISH SUP SHAPED FOR A VARIETY OF USES FROM EXPLORING FLAT WATER TO HAVING FUN LONGBOARDING IN THE SURF.” — DESIGN TEAM

Nalu GTW

NALU SERIES SHAPER, DESIGNERS: Robby Naish and Michi Schweiger.

NALU SERIES Classic Longboard Shape, in the series, there are a four constructions available in 2 styles: SIZE 10’6” x 30” x 4” (160 L) 10’8” x 30” x 4 9/16” (164 L) 10’10” x 32” x 4 3/8” (201 L) 11’0” x 31” x 4 1/2” (175 L) 11’4” x 30” x 4 1/2” (180 L)

CONSTRUCTION - GTW, Alana GTW & GS - GSX, Alana GSX & Soft Top - GTW & GS - GTW & GS - GTW

WHAT’S UNDER ANNIE REICKERT’S FEET: 10’8” NALU GSX

WHAT NAISH TEAM ATHLETE’S ARE SAYING: “The Nalus were our first boards, I remember my mom saving up money in secret to buy the first Nalu 11’6” for my dad before Christmas, almost a decade ago now. Long before I became a team rider for Naish. The Nalu series has undergone very few — and always subtle — changes since then. And in that way, we have only honed upon the grace and fluidity which I believe is the core of Naish. My love for Nalu boards remains unchanged through the years, acquisition of employment only endows my heart with a subsidiary love for these boards, as hallmarks of great board-building, classical appreciation of the art of surfing, and timeless nostalgia.” — BERND ROEDINGER “I have always loved watching the elegant style of longboarders gliding across the waves riding the most beautiful lines. For me the Nalu range embodies and empowers these harmonic, elegant and smooth qualities. For me the Nalu also turns the smallest ankle snappers into the most fun thing in the world.”— CASPER STEINFATH

he’s paddling: Nalu GS she’s paddling: Nalu GTW

“Naish has an amazingly wide variety of SUP boards and one of the most well rounded boards in their quiver is the 10’6” Nalu. I love the Nalu because it is incredibly diverse and can handle any and all conditions. You can go from surfing knee high rollers on Maui’s West Side to solid overhead waves on the North Shore with ease. One of the outstanding aspects of this board is that it is friendly to riders of all levels. You can love this board as a beginner and as you progress the Nalu is there with you, ready for anything you take on.” –ANNIE REICKERT

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Bernd Roediger and Ethan Koopsman on the Action Nalu Inflatable LT.

INFLATABLE SERIES

Naish Inflatables represent some of the most popular shapes with options for racing, surfing, touring and all-around cruising.

Available in multiple constructions, with ample thicknesses and performance-determined widths, these boards are stable and incredibly rigid...but durable and compactable for traveling paddlers who desire whitewater conditions or rocky bottom flatwater or surf conditions.

SIZE RANGE ONE INFLATABLE 12’6” LT ONE ALANA INFLATABLE 12’6” LT ALANA INFLATABLE 11’6: X32 LT/DC NALU INFLATABLE 10’6” X32 LT GLIDE INFLATABLE 12’0” X34 LT/DC GLIDE CROSSOVER INFLATABLE 12’0” X34 LT/DC MALIKO 14’0” X26 & 14’0” X28 INFLATABLE FUSION STRINGER

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Bernd showing the versatility of the Nalu Inflatable DC in the surf. Photo: Fish Bowl Diaries

NAISH IN F “The sport of stand up paddling is widely appreciated for its ease and accessibility.

The Naish inflatable line brings that feature to a whole new level. Some of my favorite moments SUPing have been exploring new areas on my inflatable board. You can easily travel with them and they allow you to spend time on the water in all sorts of different conditions.” –ANNIE REICKERT

Annie Reickert on the ONE ALANA Inflatable and Lara Schweiger on the Alana 11’6” Inflatable.

Annie on the ONE Alana Inflatable.

Bernd and the Glide Inflatable Crossover

N FLATABLES Between Lost Lake, the Deschutes and Hood Rivers, the Noosa Gumtree Forest, “Lago di Garda” and Glacier Lake, I plan about as many inland SUP trips as I do retreats to tropical surf havens. I don’t discriminate between ocean waves foaming up on the shores of young exuberant volcanoes, and the rivers that flow over mountain ranges older than memory. The beauty of aquatic energy flows everywhere and in all places, and inflatables are just the perfect vehicle for wandering through this water-laden planet. I can’t say much more about them, they’re easy, portable and insanely durable.” –BERND ROEDIGER

You will find two construction designations for Naish Inflatables:

LT CONSTRUCTION: LT construction builds strength from the inside out. Polyester space yarn is strategically positioned in a reinforced V-connection for maximum strength and load distribution. Maintaining precision control over rocker and twist, we adhere a .52 mm 1,000 Denier PVC Hybrid Stringer once the drop-stitch is formed, to reinforce shape without weighing down the structure. A double rail construction adds further strength and stiffness, while high-heat tolerant German-made adhesive ensures long-lasting resilience.

DC CONSTRUCTION: Safe and Durable the all new Fusion Double Chamber Construction features double air chambers for safety you can rely on without added weight. Double rails add further strength and stiffness and “our” German-made adhesive sustains high-heat tolerance for long-lasting resilienc

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MALIKO SIZE RANGE: 12’6” x 24” or x 26” 14’0”x 24”, x 26” or x 28”

SAYS NAISH DESIGN TEAM: “The Maliko is designed to be the fastest production board on the planet that works with maximum efficiency to carry momentum forward and ahead of the pack. From the ISA World Championships to Red Bull Heavy Water and Gorge Paddle Championships the results continue prove what this board is capable of.”

NAISH ATHLETE FEEDBACK Bernd Roegider, “The Maliko philosophy has always been that a competitive raceboard is a stable and efficient “all-water” platform, with the best possible sprinting potential.

That’s been the program since before I came onboard, when Kai Lenny and Casper Steinfath were heading up the race input.

Now Casper and I are working under pretty much the same directive. By lucky chance, a board like that is the ultimate downwind 14ft rocket!” And adds, “It really is a product of passion, we are unrelenting in our eagerness for excellence and joy! Every session on that board makes me feel better, makes me feel like I’m learning and growing. We owe it to ourselves to chase that kind of pleasure, yearning to be better than we were the day before and someone who wants to go further and faster.”

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Naish Athlete, Bernd Roediger with the Maliko.

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THRUST SURF FOILS SURF/DOWNWIND FOILING THRUST SURF FOIL COMPLETE - STANDARD THRUST SURF FOIL COMPLETE - ABRACADABRA

SIZE M/L/XL M/L/XL

WINGSPAN 23.8”/26.1”/34” 23.8”/26.1”/34”

Annie mounting the Thrust Surf Foil to her Hover Surf Comet Foilboard

DESIGNER Nils Rosenblad is the Foil Engineer behind the Thrust Surf Foils

FOILS AND FOIL BOARD THEORY There’s no set pairing for what foil goes with what board, but rather the modular system allows you to put together your dream set up. With the rapid evolution of foiling we are constantly testing with a team of full blown foiling addicts of all abilities and sizes. For 2019 we are extremely excited to introduce our XL wing, which has already received a lot of praise from our bigger riders for its incredible ability to launch on to a foil early and efficiently.

The modular system allows you to add further customization on top of the complete set. I.E. you can buy the complete set, then add more components to it for further tunability.

Thrust Surf Foil Complete - Standard

Foil designer Nils Rosenblad. Photo: Jose Morales

Robby with his Hover Surf PU Foilboard.

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HOVER SUP

Annie Reickert on the Hover SUP 95 Foilboard and the Thrust Surf Foil.

Chuck Patterson on the Hover SUP 120 Foilboard and the Thrust Surf Foil.

FOILBOARDS SIZE HOVER 95 - 7’0” x 27 ¾” (95L) HOVER 120 – 7’6” x 30” (120L) HOVER 120 CROSSOVER – 7’6” x 30” (120L) HOVER 135 – 7’6” ½” (135L) HOVER 150 – 8’0” x 32 ½” (150L) HOVER 150 CROSSOVER – 8’0” x 32 ½” (150L)

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Ethan Koopsman on the Hover SUP 135 Foilboard with Thrust Surf Foil.

SO WHILE YOU’RE ON THE WATER FOR THE SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR AND WATCHING HAPPY, CONTENT PADDLERS RIDING THE WATERS OFF MAUI, CRUISING THE COASTLINE OF CALIFORNIA AND THE EAST COAST, EXPLORING THE INLAND WATERWAYS OF AMERICA, EUROPE, AUSTRALIA AND THE REST OF THE WORLD, THE ONES ON THE NEW LINEUP OF NAISH’S BOARDS ARE THE ONES SMILING AND HAVING FUN!”

Annie Reickert on the Alana 10’8” GSX.

The Naish Inflatable Lifestyle at a glance.

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BLUESMITHS PADD MAUI, HAWAII 5TH MAY

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ADDLE IMUA 2018 A BENEFIT RACE FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Bird’s eye perspective of Maliko Gulch at the start. Photo: Lyle Krannichfeld

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The winsome smile of Hönscheid from the very start!

PC: 808Photo.me

It takes guts and grit from the start — 10 miles from Maliko Gulch to Kakului Harbor. photo: 808Photo.me

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BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua is an exciting annual multiple-discipline paddle race that raises funds to directly support Camp Imua, a weeklong recreational camp experience for special needs children ages 6-16 years. Paddle Imua brings the ocean sports community together to celebrate the lives of special needs children by embracing our connection to the ocean. Paddle Imua creates a physical embodiment of the Hawaiian word Imua (‘to move forward’), which comes from, references to the water and paddling. Paddle Imua is literally meant to help move Camp Imua forward for many years to come, by providing ongoing funding to support the program and continually expand and improve it. One of the unique aspects of this competition on Maui is that the competitors are also given the opportunity to interact with the special needs children of Camp Imua at the finish of the race, giving them valuable exposure to water sports and inspiration to live out their dreams.

This year Paddle Imua 2018 took place in grueling hot conditions that tested all athletes’ skill, stamina, and mental strength. 162 stand-up paddlers, prone paddlers, OC1s, OC2s, OC6s, boats and Surf Skis took part in the Maliko Bay to Kahului Harbor ocean race for the benefit of children with special needs. With the trade winds shut down and choppy seas the course tested the limits of endurance and skill while focusing paddlers’ minds on the event cause. This race is for the kids of Camp Imua and had it not been for the charitable nature of this event, many paddlers might have failed to finish the distance. The light winds meant that the hydrofoil riders would have to take a back seat and a tactical battle between boats, OCs and stand-up paddle boards were

Tradtion — opening Pule (blessing) before the start. photo: Lyle Krannichfeld

Yuka Sato. photo: Frankiebees

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played out along the ten-mile course.

This year it would be the Surf Ski of Michael Owens, which would reach the harbor mouth first, with OCs and Surf Skis dominating the top 20. In the SUP division, Australian dark horse Ty Judson flew over the morning of the race from Oahu and, paddling his Unlimited SUP, outlasted Maui based Josh Riccio paddling on a stock 14’ SUP, with Team USA’s Ryan Funk in 3rd. Ryan who had been set to race on a hydrofoil board opted at the last minute to paddle his stock 14’ flat water board rather than his unlimited due to light wind conditions. Typically, unlimited SUP boards have a big advantage on the Maliko run but when the winds are light their speed advantage is to some extent eroded which resulted in the tactical battle between crafts gunning for the overall win.

“Thanks so much to the organizers of BLUESMTHS Paddle Imua for putting on such an inspirational race. The atmosphere at the finish line was amazing with all the kids from Camp Imua greeting us with leis. It’s great to be a part of something so special and showcase the inspiring things that can be done to help kids with special needs. Thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors. The famous Maliko Run was testing and rewarding, if you worked hard for the bumps there were

runs the whole way into the harbor.” - Ty Judson, Australia (Blue Planet) “Another successful charity race on Maui’s north shore! We didn’t have perfect conditions, true, but a 10-mile grind along the coast was nothing compared to the kind of challenges the kids at Camp Imua are facing every day of their lives.” - Bernd Roediger, Hawaii (Naish) The women’s SUP race featured BLUESMITHS athlete Sonni Hönscheid, current Paddle League world number #1 and a strong contingent of international and local athletes. Sonni has been in impressive form this season and there was no match for her speed and power, her time of 1:31:43 put her almost six minutes ahead of local Annie Reickert in second with Yuka Sato from Japan in third. As in the men’s race, board choice was critically important. Hönscheid opted for the Unlimited with Reickert and Sato both paddling stock 14’ boards.

“The Bluesmiths Paddle Imua is one of the highlights of my year and I am thrilled to win again. This event is much more than a race; it is an event full of celebration with music, friends and most importantly it raises money for Camp Imua. This year we weren’t the luckiest with the wind, but the hard paddle was totally worth it arriving at the finish line and getting greeted by the Camp Imua kids with flowers and smiles!” Sonni Hönscheid, Germany (Starboard)

“THE BLUESMITHS PADDLE IMUA IS ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF MY YEAR AND I AM THRILLED TO WIN AGAIN. THIS EVENT IS MUCH MORE THAN A RACE; IT IS AN EVENT FULL OF CELEBRATION WITH MUSIC, FRIENDS AND MOST IMPORTANTLY IT RAISES MONEY FOR CAMP IMUA. THIS YEAR WE WEREN’T THE LUCKIEST WITH THE WIND, BUT THE HARD PADDLE WAS TOTALLY WORTH IT — ARRIVING AT THE FINISH LINE AND GREETED BY THE CAMP IMUA KIDS WITH FLOWERS AND SMILES!” SONNI HÖNSCHEID, GERMANY (STARBOARD) Sonni Hönscheid will take the women’s win for Bluesmiths Paddle Imua. photo: Frankiebees

“I took an inside course from the start but did get caught in some of the backwashes from the reefs, the wind was light but there were lots of bumps which were so much fun to glide. I have really been enjoying my time in Maui and getting connected to the Hawaiian water.

The best part of the day for me was the fun race with the kids of Camp Imua, so much fun, laughter, and happiness. I was already really pleased that the event was eco-friendly with zero waste and reusable cups (will be taking mine back to Tokyo with me). I am really looking forward to returning to next year and hopefully bringing some more paddlers from Japan.” - Yuka Sato, Japan (Starboard) “I hear the conditions were not as epic for this year’s event as they have been in the past, but there were so many rideable bumps and plenty of fun to be had! The most special part of the race for me was the finish because the kids of Camp Imua were there waiting with water, aloha, and big hugs! Definitely coming back next year!”

- Hannah Hill, USA (Naish) This event is more than an ocean race, it is a yearlong commitment to supporting those families in Maui County who face much bigger challenges on a daily basis than most of us can imagine. The pain felt by the athletes this weekend is nothing compared to what the parents and families of Camp Imua face daily.

The money raised through this event goes directly into improving the lives of those families, this is why we paddle, this is why we dig deeper than we thought was possible. This year it was great to see so many new faces from across the world coming together to help people they have never met. The work will go on and we hope to see you at the event next year.

“I feel very privileged as a paddler to be part of a great gathering of people that would take on any ocean condition to support this event for the kids. This was not the typical downwind race, which we expected, but a grueling test of grit and endurance. We knew this race would hurt but we did it anyway. Some people hurt all the time. For myself, this race was in honor of my recently lost friend whose body failed him. After a five-year battle with losing all mobility, he succumbed to ALS. He was 39. RIP Jeff. As the fortunate people that we are, to have this option to paddle and enjoy the ocean, it is our obligation to do just that. Do it for yourself, do it for a cause, just do it because you love it and that you are able.” - Sharn Mentz, Cayman Islands We’re always so excited to co-host with BLUESMITHS, our title sponsor. It’s a benefit race for Maui County children with special needs that attend

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“...more than an ocean race, it is a year-long commitment to supporting those families in Maui County who face much bigger challenges on a daily basis than most of us can imagine.”

Annie Reickert. photo:

Frankiebees

Hannah Hill. photo: Frankiebees Bernd Roediger. photo:

Frankiebees

Ty Judson. photo: Frankiebees

Yuka Sato paddling with intent. photo: 808Photo.me

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Kody Kerbox. photo: Lyle Krannichfeld

Mark Raaphorst rewarded with a high five at the finish. photo: Lyle Krannichfeld

It’s more than just the win... photo: Lyle Krannichfeld

Left to right, Ian Ponting (announcer), John Smalley, Ty Judson, Kody Kerbox, Nathan Cross, Dean Wong (announcer) photo: 808photo.me

Dancers from Old Lahaina Luau. photo: Lyel Krannichfeld

Paddle Imua kids experiencing the fun of paddle relays. photo: 808Photo.me

The children of Camp Imua and racers — this incredible bond of giving them valuable exposure to water sports and inspiration to live out their dreams. photo: 808Photo.me

Camp Imua, a 42-year old program that offers an overnight special recreational camp for children with special needs here in Maui County. This race has been the event that’s put Camp Imua back on the map and made it sustainable. “This is the 7th year of this incredible race, and what athletes love doing is coming out and meeting our kids with special needs and making them feel like they were really part of something that’s so much bigger than this epic race.”

- Dean Wong, Executive Director of Imua Family Services “Another epic race! That said the conditions were not normal for the Maliko Run. We’re used to strong trade winds and solid swell.

This time, we had the opposite. The turnout was incredible and listening to the athletes, Bluesmiths Paddle Imua is clearly becoming

a local and international favorite event for many. Thanks to Maui’s ocean community for making this event so special!” - John Smalley, Founder, and CEO, Bluesmiths Crafted Waterwear (Maui, Hawaii) ABOUT BLUESMITHS BLUESMITHS Crafted Waterwear makes the hardest working, most versatile water wear, and accessories in the world. Based in Maui, a real-time research, and development lab, everything we make is the result of rigorous testing by a small but accomplished team of ocean athletes, pioneers, and watermen. At BLUESMITHS, we live for real innovation and problem solving, best-in-class fabrics, timeless styling, and uncompromising manufacturing standards. View more at bluesmiths.com

ABOUT CAMP IMUA Camp Imua is an incredible Maui tradition that began in 1976, which brings the community and children with special needs together for a free weeklong, overnight recreational camp each summer. Held each year at Camp Maluhia in the West Maui Mountains, 60 campers and roughly 150 volunteers come together for a week of crafts, games, swimming, helicopter rides, zip-lining and general fun, all the while making new friends and catching up with old. The generous support of local businesses and individuals greatly contribute to Camp’s continued success, and roughly 70% of Camp’s expenses are met through in-kind contributions from the community.

EACH YEAR, CAMP IMUA ACHIEVES THREE KEY OUTCOMES: • It gives school-age children with “special abilities” opportunities to try new activities and connect with others in a safe and supportive environment.

• It gives volunteers opportunities to connect with the children, build leadership skills and to give back to the community.

• It gives the children’s caregivers much needed time off from what is typically 24-hour care for their children.

SUMMARY RESULTS FOR THE 7TH ANNUAL BLUESMITHS PADDLE IMUA MEN’S OC1: Kevin Dudoit (1:15:42), Nalu Sampson (1:16:28), Lopaka White (1:18:05) WOMEN’S OC1: Kathy Shipman (1:31:12), Theresa Felgate (1:32:13), Christine Donovan (1:35:27) MEN’S OC2: Keoni Kalama (1:32:12), Jordan Soon (1:36:37), Ryder Tremble (1:39:00) WOMEN’S OC2: Michelle Cerizo (1:38:38), Sarah Fletcher (1:40:17) MEN’S SURF-SKI: Michael Owens (1:11:52), Eric Rohozinski (1:20:15), Ricahrd Spork (1:20:52) MEN’S SUP UNLIMITED: Ty Judson (1:22:02), Kody Kerbox (1:29:08), Nathan Cross (1:31:23) WOMEN’S SUP UNLIMITED: Sonni Honschied (1:31:43), Devin Blish (1:42:44), Andrea Moller (1:53:34) MEN’S SUP 14’ NO RUDDER: Josh Riccio (1:22:41), Ryan Funk (1:27:09), Bernd Roediger (1:29:32) WOMEN’S SUP 14’ NO RUDDER: Annie Reickert (1:37:19), Yuka Sato (1:38:06), Lara Claydon (1:50:58) LASER: Jochen Stuemges (1:43:30), Kai Ponting (2:05:41) STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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A SCANDINAVIAN ODYSSEY —

SKAGER

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RRAK

C A S P E R S T E I N FAT H PA D D L E S D E N M A R K T O N O R W AY

B Y O L E W E J S E S VA R R E R PHOTOS: FREDRIK CLEMENT

ON A PREPOSSESSING SUNDAY IN MARCH, THE 24-YEAR-OLD DANISH PADDLE SURFER CASPER STEINFATH BECAME THE FIRST PERSON IN THE WORLD TO CROSS THE OCEAN BETWEEN DENMARK AND NORWAY ON A SUP. But the dark and cold conditions almost pushed him off. This account is the tale of how Steinfath managed to paddle 137 kilometers on a Scandinavian Odyssey that would leave him a changed man.

It is the most beautiful night in Denmark in many weeks. Heavy grey clouds have left the sky open, a marvelous scenery of dancing stars under a northern arctic winter sky.

It is 1:20 a.m. at a beach called Kjul Strand north of Hirtshals, 100 kilometers from ‘Cold Hawaii’ — the Danish surfing paradise. Steinfath sits in his wetsuit inside an old grey Volkswagen Transporter with the heater on full blast. Commonly known as ‘The Viking’ in the paddling world, Steinfath is one of the fastest paddle surfers in the world. He is four-time ISA World STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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SATURDAY 11.00 AM, 14 HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE: Here in the harbour of Hanstholm, Steinfath checks the last details at the mothership.

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SATURDAY 11:20 PM, 2 HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE:

Two skilled navigators set the course for Steinfath. They monitor live current, waves and wind and will provide new directions via VHF radio.

SUNDAY 01:19 AM, ONE MINUTE BEFORE DEPARTURE:

Steinfath hugs his brother Peter before sliding his board into the dark ocean.

Peter is Casper’s biggest inspiration and event manager on this trip.

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SUNDAY 01:20 AM, DEPARTURE:

The Danish Viking is all alone at the first 500 meters. The little RIB can’t get close to shore due to the waves. Steinfath shared later that these 500 meters were the scariest meters that he had ever paddle.

Champion in 200-meter sprint and technical race. But on this dark and cold early morning, he will need more than speed and acrobatic maneuvering on a surfboard to reach his goal.

He and the small crowd around him wait for the lifeguards on the following boat to give him the green light for his long-lasting dream — to cross the treacherous ocean between Denmark and Norway on his stand-up paddleboard, a 130-kilometer expedition. An expedition Steinfath has labeled the Viking Crossing.

THE GNARLIEST THING EVER At this time Steinfath has no idea what Skagerrak has in store for him — rogue waves in dark, heavy currents, freezing temperatures, and treacherous winds. Nor does the Viking realize that eighteen hours and thirty minutes later he will hit pier No. Six in the harbor in Kristiansand after 137 kilometers on his 26 inch wide Naish Maliko.

Skagerrak is known for its treacherous currents and wild weather.

From his hometown of Klitmøller in Cold Hawaii, Steinfath would seek to step in the footsteps of his Viking forefathers and be the first person on a SUP to paddle across the Skagerrak to the Norwegian town of Kristiansand. The journey testing his skills and push him to his limits both physically and mentally. He knows that the most

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significant challenges will be the many hours standing on his SUP while dealing with the cold. Although the calendar says March (and spring), the Scandinavian winter is relentless and showing virtually no signs of slowing down.

Crossing the “Skagerrak is a childhood dream of mine. What excites me is the added challenge of paddling for many hours in rough ocean, deep darkness and freezing temperatures. For me, it is the ultimate culmination of dreams, passion, and skills learned during my lifetime,” says Steinfath. The Viking is relentless in his determination to prove to the world not to discount underdog nations like Denmark.

THE GREEN LIGHT Back on the dark and frozen beach someone suddenly shouts, “Green light. There’s green light.” The lifeguards are ready. The thermometer shows minus seven degrees Celsius — but with a 15-20 knot wind, the chill factor will hit him with minus-eleven degrees Celsius in the night. At the same time, small waves will constantly try to push him off his board. He knows that these will be the conditions for the coming five hours until the sun rises over Skagerrak. `Steinfath recounts, “As I stepped off the beach and into the dark abyss my body immediately came under siege from the cold. The

“AS I STEPPED OFF THE BEACH AND INTO THE DARK ABYSS MY BODY IMMEDIATELY CAME UNDER SIEGE FROM THE COLD.” STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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SUNDAY 06:00 AM, AFTER 04:40 HOURS:

After five hours in the dark, the sun finally joins the four-time ISA World Champion.

It is still freezing cold - but the sun brings the perfect boost.

chilly wind first reached for my fingers and sent them towards a lockdown.

I had to focus on constantly moving my fingers and feet to keep the blood flowing to these parts. It was crazy! I think I was more worried about the cold than the darkness.”

His father gave him the idea to cross Skagerrak. While Casper Steinfath is a tall, blond, and fit paddle surfer he is not as muscular as his Viking forefathers. But he is strong and can paddle for days if the motivation is right.

He lives in a little village called Klitmøller in the northern part of Denmark with only 800 souls. Klitmøller used to be a fishing village, but the fishing boats are gone. Now Klitmøller is the heart of Cold Hawaii, a paradise and Northern European hub for surfing in all its forms.

One day many years ago he stood with his Californian father and talked about the ocean, “I remember this dream just being stuck in my head, a dream about crossing the horizon. I vaguely remember standing at the beach as a kid with my dad looking out at the ocean and joking about what we humans are capable of on the water. We both laughed at the idea of crossing Skagerrak on a SUP. I guess it all started as a bad joke, but little did we know what this dream would lead too.”

On that Sunday evening, Casper shared, he cried with one kilometer to go realizing that he had fulfilled the dream his father placed in his mind so many years earlier.

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SUNDAY 06:30 AM, AFTER 05:10 HOURS:

When the sun finally sets, Casper could see all the bigs ships at Skagerrak. They all change course to give him space to acknowledge that he is there.

CASPER SWITCHED NIGHTS TO DAYS This was Steinfath’s second attempt to cross the Skagerrak. Last year, under wild circumstances, he was forced to withdraw from his crossing attempt just 12 kilometers before his destination after having paddled for nearly 17 hours in freezing conditions.

A combination of a building storm and strong currents pushing away from land broke the multiple times SUP World Champion, a very bitter moment for the young Viking.

This year, however, Steinfath spent the entire winter at home in Denmark training in the cold and darkness. Spending hundreds of hours analyzing mistakes from last year and now has

“AFTER TRAINING HUNDREDS OF HOURS IN THE DARK THIS WINTER, I FEEL THAT I BECOME MORE COMFORTABLE IN THE DARK, BUT NEVER AT HOME...”

AFTER 11:30 HOURS:

Steinfath is full of energy and in a good mood. Here in the middle of Skagerrak between Denmark and Norway, he gives a live interview to TV2 NEWS. At this time he has no idea what to expect. He has no clue that the last eight hours will be the worst hours ever on his Naish, Maliko. Photo: Hans Hoite Augustenborg

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his gaze fixed solidly on setting foot on Norwegian soil. Through focused preparations and a strong support team around him, Casper believed he found what it would take to match Mother Nature in what he described as the ultimate challenge.

“I believe the key is not to beat Mother Nature with brute force, but instead be patient until she presents me the right moment and hopefully allows me a chance to pass through the chaos. This year I have focused a lot on improving my night paddling skills to prevent seasickness. I have also spent many hours reading and learning about the complex current systems out there as well as stepping up my navigational game,” says a humble Steinfath when asked about his preparations for this second attempt.

COMFORTABLE BUT SCARED IN THE DARK. Humble and focused are the emotions emanating from Steinfath as he gently slid his board into the cold, dark water and takes his first of 60,000 strokes in the dark night.

“After training hundreds of hours in the dark this winter, I feel that I became more comfortable in the dark, but never at home. My mind was uneasy. I was scared and I could feel my legs were trembling. My headlamp gave me some comfort, but my mind was clearly set on reaching daybreak. It felt like everything that mattered to me.

Reaching sunrise was like a victory in itself.” He admits.

After five hours alone in the dark, the sun suddenly greeted him on the horizon. It is the most beautiful morning in many weeks in Denmark with a crystal blue sky, a calming ocean, no wind and a STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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SUNDAY 12:50 PM - AFTER 11:30 HOURS:

Happy time on the ocean. Skagerrak is calm for the first day in many weeks. The sun is warming Steinfath’s cold body, with conditions better than expected. The ship in the background is the mothership ‘Arriver’ with navigators, tv-crew, provisions and Steinfath’s personal crew. Photo: Hans Hoite Augustenborg

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“I’M WHOLLY EMPTIED OF POWER. THIS VIKING CROSSING IS THE GNARLIEST THING I’VE TRIED. NONE OF THE FOUR WORLD TITLES I WON COME CLOSE TO WHAT I EXPERIENCED TODAY. I WAS FORCED TO PUSH MYSELF TO ANOTHER LEVEL TO CONQUER SKAGERRAK. I DIDN’T FEEL THAT I CONQUERED SKAGERRAK. I FEEL THAT SKAGERRAK CONQUERED ME.” HE SAID STANDING IN THE NORWEGIAN HARBOR. STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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SUNDAY 04:10 PM, AFTER 14:50 HOURS:

For four hours Steinfath can see the coastline of Norway. In the beginning, the view to land gives him a boost and belief. But when you are paddling with 8-10 km/hours, the coastline doesn’t come close very fast. Hope can be turned to despair.

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warm sun that heats the Viking’s cold body. Halfway across the ocean, he catches a glimpse of the Norwegian coastal mountains, which boosts his spirits and keeps him going. But they only slowly come closer to the Danish Viking and the last four hours are the worst hours on a surfboard in his entire life.

KINN SAVED HIM FROM FAILURE Steinfath is in pain. The last 25 kilometers were brutal.

His back hurts. He is not able to bend his knees. His arms and shoulders are empty of power and the wetsuit has eroded the skin from his private parts. His body is simply shutting down. At the same time, he is battered by relentless side wind and successfully setting foot on Norwegian soil seems like a distant and abstract dream.

But then he sees the small island called Kinn.

It is the final tipping point on the Viking Crossing.

After 18 hours at sea, his mind was also breaking down.

He only has four kilometers left to go, but the distance in front of him feels like climbing Mount Everest. “Kinn came into my life as a lifeline in a pretty dark hour. After being battered by side-wind for countless hours, Kinn gave me shelter and a much-needed rest, before taking on the final stretch in the dark. If it were not for this small snow-covered arctic island, I prob-

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photo: Peter Gramstrup

SUNDAY 06:40 PM, AFTER 17:20 HOURS:

This little island called Kinn saves Steinfath from failure.

Kinn creates a shelter from the side-wind, and provides a small break. If Kinn hadn’t been there at this time, he would not have made it to Kristiansand, he shared later.

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“I BELIEVE THE KEY IS NOT TO BEAT MOTHER NATURE WITH BRUTE FORCE, BUT INSTEAD BE PATIENT UNTIL SHE PRESENTS ME THE RIGHT MOMENT AND HOPEFULLY ALLOWS ME A CHANCE TO PASS THROUGH THE CHAOS.” STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

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“I NOW FIRMLY BELIEVE, IT IS NOT THE ACTUAL DESTINATION THAT COUNTS. IT IS THE PROCESS BY WHICH WE HUMANS WORK TO REACH OUR DREAMS AND OUR GOALS.”

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AFTER 17:30 HOURS:

The team is clearly worried about Steinfath. He hasn’t eaten or drank for the past three hours because it is too painful to get rid of his body waste. They make a plan for what to do if he suddenly collapses.

ably would not have made it to shore. Thanks, Kinn.” Steinfath says. One hour later he sets his feet on Norwegian soil.

“My body is fully broken down. I feel like just laying in bed for the rest of the week and revisiting my dreams — how magical and intense this crossing over Skagerrak was. I’m pretty sure I will remember both the pain and joy from this Viking Crossing for the rest of my life.” says Casper Steinfath.

“I now firmly believe,” he adds, “it is not the actual destination that counts. It is the process by which we as humans work to reach our dreams and goals. This is the interesting part. We, humans, can push ourselves so much further both physically and mentally than we dare think.”

Crossing Skagerrak showed him this.

PHotos: Fredrik Clement

photo: Peter Gramstrup

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L AST PA D D LE O U T

FLYING HAWAIIAN Leleo Kinimaka got into the foiling less than two years ago and has never looked back since. A gifted athlete and an unbelievable SUP surfer, tandem board rider, as well as one of the most talent wood craftsman who makes custom dining tables, alai’a boards, canoe and SUP paddles — Kinimaka, excels at all his trades.

But when it comes to getting on his foil board, this Hawaiian flies.

PHOTO: HAKA

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