QUI VE R S A N D W H E E L S KUEPPER’S LAND & WATER WHEELS
D ESTIN ATIO N F LY ING IN PAR ADISE
S TA N D U P P A D D L E M A G A Z I N E V O L 9 N º 3
ROVER FROM
PADDLE
TO
POWER
BOTE ROVE R
THE BRAVE BEAR
A REID INOUYE PUBLICATION
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VOL9Nº3/U.S. $10.95/CAN $12.95
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Pacific Boardsports LLC NaishStandUpPaddling
2018SUP_StandupPaddleMag_Range_Spread_18x12.indd All Pages
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(509) 493-0043
Photo: Frankiebees.com, Riders: A.Reickert, B.Roediger, E.Koopmans
2018 sup collection Building the perfect board to fit your riding style
ALL -AROUND
QUEST
ALL-AROUND WAVE, WIDEBODY, CLASSIC & TOURING
9’6”
9’8”
10’8”
TOURING
11’2”
WIDEBODY
12’0”
9’5”
CLASSIC
10’0”
RACING
10’6”
10’10”
12’0”
12’6”
14’0”
INFLATABLE
10’6”
11’6”
12’0”
12’6”
12’6” X24 | X26
11’4”
FOIlING THRUST MEDIUM
11’6”
11’0”
14’0” X24 | X26 | 28
THRUST LARGE
HOVER 95
HOVER 120
HOVER 120 CROSSOVER
SURFI NG
7’10”
8’1”
8’2” X32
8’6”
8’7” X32
8’11”
9’0”
9’0” X32
9’6”
10’0”
6/14/17 4:05 PM
2017 BOARD LINEUP
Whether you surf, practice yoga, fish, cruise or race we’ve got you covered. Visit us at yoloboard.com to learn more about our exciting 2017 lineup.
Celebrating10 years of living the yolo lifestyle. Thanks to our tribe for the endless support. YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE, MAKE IT COUNT.
(844) YOLO-BOARD | YOLOBOARD.COM
Fiona Wylde TRIDENT PERFORMANCE SPORTS INC., CANADA/USA Ph: 866 929 9626 e-mail: info@tridentsports.com Photographer : John Carter
ARK EP AT
HL RDA CLIM YE
THOR H E
OUR JOB IS
CLEAR
Ollie O’Reilly
Our partners for a deep-blue, sustainable future:
If the oceans die, we die. That’s why we work with Sustainable Surf and The Heyerdahl Mangrove Park to build better boards for the planet. Our inflatable All Round boards have a carbon footprint of 75kgs – but for each board sold, we plant a mangrove absorbing up to 1000 kg of C02 over 20 years. Live a deep blue life with Starboard.
photo: kennady grow www.cova.com #foundmycova
cova ambassador | kieran grant
Ryan Helm
Photos: Scott Shannon
SUP Surfing his Whirling Dervish Pro Model.
NUGG
9’2” x 31”
NUGG TURBO RIVIERA ORIGINAL 9’2” x 31”
10’6” x 32” 11’6” x 33”
SELECT
10’6” x 32” 11’6” x 33”
CONVOY
RON HOUSE
10’6” x 32” COASTAL CRUISER 11’6” x 33” 12’6” X 30”
Support your local SUP shop!
VOYAGER
11’6” x 30” 12’6” x 32”
VOYAGER FISH ON CLASSIC 12’6” X 34”
12’6” X 32”
INFLATABLE 11’0” X 34” 12’6” X 32”
LIFE IS BETTER ON THE WATER.® @rivierapaddlesurf /rivierapaddlesurf rivierapaddlesurf.com
RP-12’6” RACEBOARD 12’6” X 22” 12’6” X 24” 12’6” X 26” 12’6” X 28”
RP-14’ RACEBOARD 14’0” X 23” 14’0” X 25” 14’0” X 27”
RP-14’ DOWNWINDER 14’0” X 26”
RP-12’ PRONE
12’0” X 20.25”
WHIRLING DERVISH 7’6” x 26” 8’0” x 28” 8’6” x 30.5”
THE BOSS 9’0” x 29” 10’0” x 31”
EL TIGRE 7’2” x 25” 7’8” x 27” 8’2” x 28” 8’8” x 29” 9’8” x 31”
Find a Riviera dealer near you at: www.rivierapaddlesurf.com/pages/dealer-locator
EL TIGRE WIDE 7’2” x 28” 7’8” x 30” 8’2” x 31” 8’8” x 32” 9’8” x 33”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Molokai 2 Oahu
World Championships
July 30 2017 ~ 32 Miles Are you Ready?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
D E ST I N AT I O N FLORIDA KEYS
:: ARCHIPELAGO IN FLORIDA :: The Florida Keys offer some of the best fishing in North America. However, in early spring the tarpon migration takes the fishing to another level. A huge number of Megalops pass through the Keys and Florida Bay on their way to spawn. Mingling with resident fish, this influx of tarpon make for one of the most exciting fishing opportunities available, especially from a SUP! Add to the equation a new category in stand-up — Stand Up Powerboards, and you can access these piscatorial highways even more efficiently and effectively.
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Bear Holeman feeding the wildlife. Florida Keys. PHOTO: SEAN MURPHY STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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RIDER: 3X MOLOKAI WINNER SONNI HONSCHEID
M A ST H E A D VOLUME 9Nº3
PUBLISHER Reid Inouye EDITOR Paul Ensyde MANAGING EDITOR Lucy Lucille DESIGN First in Flight Creative ADVISORS NUTRITION COACH Scott Estrada YOGA INSTRUCTOR Jeramie Vaine TRAINERS Thomas “Maximus” Shahinian
WATERWEAR RECONSIDERED. BLUESMITHS HYDROPHOBIC APPAREL
STAFF WRITERS Jim Freeman, Paul Ensyde STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Jim Freeman, Eric Haka, Paul Ensyde CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Daniel Hargrave, Robert Howson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Frankie Bees, Sean Murphy, Va’a News, Tim McKenna, Tahiti FlyShoot, Stephane Mounier, Robert Howson, Fluxphotosup, Chris Peck, Marcy Browe SALES sales@standuppaddlemagazine.com EDITORIAL AND CONTRIBUTION CONTACT info@standuppaddlemagazine.com SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION
$59.95 includes shipping in the United States of America. Printed bimonthly February, April, June, August, October and December. 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 2017
S TA N D U P PA D D L E M A G A Z I N E . C O M
LEARN MORE OR BUY NOW AT BLUESMITHS.COM
facebook.com/standuppaddlemagazine instagram.com/standuppaddlemagazine twitter.com/supmagazine pinterest.com/spmagazine ISSN 2372-2274
N A I S H PA D D L E S
CARBON ELITE
PERFORMANCE RACE/WAVE
CARBON PLUS
RACE/TOURING/WAVE
CARBON
ALL-AROUND/ CRUISING/WAVE
ALANA
WOMEN’S ALL-AROUND
POWER, PRECISION, PERFORMANCE. Naish’s paddle range strikes the perfect balance between
KEVLAR WAVE
PRO PERFORMANCE WAVE
high-performance materials, precision engineering and power enhancement. The blades feature pre-preg laminates and high-temperature molding technology for the best possible strength-to-weight ratio and long-term durability. From the continuous blade-to-shaft design, which promotes better power transfer with each stroke, to the vario shaft and hydro seal, which improves buoyancy and prevents water-intake, every detail has been engineered and refined to maximize your performance
PERFORMANCE
RECREATIONAL ALL-AROUND
on the water. When it comes to paddles, every detail makes a difference and Naish takes that very seriously. You should too. **Patent No. US D739,804 S
PERFORMANCE JR.
KID’S RECREATIONAL ALL-AROUND
2018SUP_StandUpPaddle_Paddles_Single_9x12_V9N3.indd 1
Pacific Boardsports LLC
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NaishStandUpPaddling
pbs@naishsails.com NaishSUP
•
(509) 493-0043 Photo: Frankiebees.com, Rider: Kai Lenny
6/15/17 10:28 AM
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
FINDING ITS WAY BACK
HŌKŪLE’A RETURNS HOME
After a worldwide journey of the seas around the world, Hawaii’s pride and joy has finally returned home after three years. The Mālama Hona Worldwide Voyage — a voyage for a sustainable future started in 2013. Travels included stops in Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, Bali, Mauritius, South Africa, Brazil, and the Caribbean Islands. She went along the east coast of the U.S.A. from Florida up to New York and even parts of Canada. Her return routes brought her through the Panama Canal, to Rapa Nui and back to Tahiti and finally home to Honolulu, Hawaii a few blocks from our office. Hopefully—its mission of building awareness to our sustainability to the planet. It is one which will have an effect on the future, especially for us as water people. One that reflects a real mission of balance and life, because we know—we are all connected as one through the seas of the planet, and we all know that water is life. Reid Inouye Publisher, Standup Paddle Magazine
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Rejuvenation Retreat
May 25 - 29, 2018
Samata Adventure Camp
July 1 - 5, 2018
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C O NT E NTS V O L U M E
9 N º 3
: : 2017: :
16 OPENING SHOT 20 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 26 HOW TO
Scott Estrada:
South American Powerhouse
Thomas Maximus: Choosing The Right Fin
Jeremy Vaine: Proper Use of your PFD
How To: Get Up In the Wind
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36
ROVER
From Paddle To Power
54 FLYING IN PARADISE
The Air Tahiti Nui Paddle
70 NAISH PROFILE
Bernd Roediger
80 QUIVER & WHEELS
Keupper Wheels & Wave Vehicles
88 PRODUCT REVIEW
ON THIS PAGE: Cindy Gibson on the YOLO 10’6 Coastal Cruiser keeping it real, keeping it blue. PC: HAKA
ON THE COVER: You don’t know what we can find … on a magic carpet ride. Rob McAbee Photo: Sean Murphy
H OW TO H EA LT H w ith Scott Estrada
BRAZIL NUTS:: THE SOUTH AMERICAN POWERHOUSE “THE BEST NUTS YOU’RE PROBABLY NOT EATING” In our culture nuts and seeds have always been around and consumed without much thought into the real value of what ones are best or pack the most punch regarding nutrition and benefit. Growing up the most of the nuts/seeds I was exposed to were roasted, salted, sugared or highly processed versions and mainly dominated by peanuts or peanut butter. I was unaware that these were a far reach from their heirloom origins in South America and the crop had been hybrid to grow in the U.S. year round into a plethora of processed foods feeding the multi-billion dollar industry it has become. The traditional peanut butter I was eating filled me with highly processed hydrogenated oils, artificial sweeteners, and compounds that elevated my inflammation and taxed my digestion.
In my early 20’s someone gave me the jewel of a Brazil nut, larger than anything I had tried in the nut family, heavier too — this thing was a beast! I loved the few I got to try. They weren’t easy to find back then which made me interested to know what they were about and investigate how they fit into the nutritional ladder. Brazil Nuts are from trees in areas of South America and grow up to 200 feet in the Amazon region. They are seeds that come from the ‘nut’ that resembles a coconut weighing as much as five pounds and can hold up to 20 seeds (Brazil nuts!) These gems are nutrient dense, so you don’t need many to glean the benefits. Here are the credentials of this amazing gift from the Amazon. Loaded with Selenium, they are the number one source of this vital trace mineral on the planet from a food source. Just oneounce (about six nuts) gives you about 775% of your daily recommended value — a KEY player in any anti-inflammation protocol and should be held in high regard. Selenium is a major piece in fighting free radical damage, protecting cells and preventing cancer. So potent they are that a 2012 study showed just one Brazil nut per day for three months was able to improve anti-inflammation/ antioxidant responses and improve blood chemistry balance among 45 patients! Selenium is also a potent weapon against depression and can support healthy serotonin levels (the feel good chemical),
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helping to keep our brain chemistry in check against anxiety, depression, and promoting better sleep and contribute to regulate appetite. The combo of selenium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium in these nuts also support healthy blood pressure and overall cardiovascular function. Naturally high in “good” fats, mainly unsaturated fatty acids that support HDL (good) cholesterol protect against heart disease and stroke. Even a small regular intake of 2-3 nuts per week has shown to support and maintain healthy serum cholesterol levels in blood chemistry. The thyroid gland holds more selenium of any gland/organ per gram of tissue in the body. It is the key to creating and utilizing thyroid hormones to carry out their tasks. Consider this if you have thyroid disfunction, which regulates metabolism, body temp, and energy levels. The good fatty acid content also supports an active “fat adapted” lifestyle where your body will use healthy fats as primary fuel versus glucose dependency which leads to higher inflammation; this combination makes Brazil nuts a powerful thyroid protector for longevity and performance. Brazil nuts are such a simple but powerful ritual if you can source some of these Amazon gems into your intake! Be kind to yourself and share this bounty with others, everyone can benefit! Smile and enjoy the ride!
USE/SOURCING Since Brazil nuts have a significant fat content, they are prone to spoiling quicker so look for smaller sealed pouches/bags vs. bulk bins at the store where more toxins can harbor. Store them in sealed containers in a cool, dry, dark space or the fridge for a few months. Pro tip: soak them in filtered or spring water overnight to help break down any enzyme inhibitors leaving them more bioavailable and easy to digest because of their density. Less is more with these powerhouses! It’s easy to eat too many since the selenium content is SO high — 2-3 per day is a good amount, no more than 4-5 per day would be my recommendation. Remember to purchase in small quantities so they don’t spoil before you can eat them. They combine well with greens on salads as well. WHAT ABOUT OTHER NUTS? Honorable mentions: Walnuts and Macadamia nuts both have the highest Omega 3 content for the brain, eye, heart, and joint health compared to all other nuts which have higher Omega 6 and much less Omega 3 amounts.
For info on this or other health/nutrition topics email Scott Estrada scott@risesup.com / Instagram: @scott_estrada
we’re made in the USA.
follow us on www.mahiku.com
HO W TO TRAINING with Thomas “Maximus” Shahinian
CHOOSING THE RIGHT FIN:: The primary focus of our training tips to increase performance primarily based on technique and training methods. In this installment, we’ll discuss one of the easiest and less expensive ways to instantly improve your speed and performance with fin selection. One simple method to immediately alter the performance of your current fin is by sliding it all the way forward into the box when installing to increase maneuverability or all the way back toward the tail to improve tracking.
One of the best ways to enhance awareness, feel, and the importance of the fin is by paddling your board without one! It’s also an excellent way to identify weaknesses in your paddle stroke with regards to pulling straight back, squared blade, top hand over bottom, exiting, et cetera along with weighting one side of your board or the other, and how it affects the board to track straight. Ideally relying less on your fin to counter inefficiently in your stroke will significantly improve your performance.
(Futures All-around fin) Anytime you’re paddling in an area with the potential to snag kelp, eelgrass or other debris you’ll want to choose a fin with a swept back leading edge. Fins with larger surface area tend to provide more stability and better tracking, especially in crossed up conditions albeit with additional drag due to their increased surface area. One of my favorites is Futures “Red Fish” fin. It maximizes its surface area and ability to improve tracking by extending its outline further back while reducing its surface area and depth.
(Futures Downwind fin) When you’re paddling up, over, and across large open water swells/waves in downwind and upwind conditions, it’s preferred to have a longer fin that projects deeper in the water to continuously maintain contact through the water while cresting over and across swells/waves. Fins with narrower bases and near vertical leading edges provide better hold while allowing the paddler to easily change direction. My favorites are Futures CA Downwind & HI Downwind fin. Be sure to choose the right fin for the conditions in your area (i.e.: CA Downwind vs. Hawaii Downwind fin)
(Course Fin/Mantra) Course races with a beach start through the surf require selecting a fin that will enable you to overcome shallow water starts without fear of hitting bottom, while also maximizing its ability to track straight and enhance the board’s stability through choppy conditions. Choosing a wider fin base can often accomplish this. Another important fin characteristic for course racing is selecting a fin that allows the paddler to easily pivot turn. Fins with too much surface area tend to inhibit quick & easy pivot turns. My favorite is Futures Mantra fin.
NOTE: This is an abbreviated overview of “Choosing the right fin” and significantly expanded upon within individual and group paddle clinics with Thomas Maximus. Email Maximus@FirstTeamXtreme.com to schedule a clinic at a Race, Shop or Club near you.
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Riviera team rider Thomas Maximus has more than 19 years of experience racing outrigger canoes, along with training and competing in over 150 SUP races since 2008 resulting in over eighty, first place wins and multiple course records.
www.sheltahats.com
EXTEND AND ALIGN::
H OW TO Y O G A w i t h Je ramie Vaine
HALF MOON POSE
As we paddle our daily habits sneak into our form. The feet, legs, hips, back, shoulders and mind all go to the place that we put them the most. But unfortunately, this place is usually not good for our bodies and minds. This pose will help us become more aware of our alignment while balancing and also the length in our bodies. Helping to keep our paddle stroke in a safer, more efficient form.
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We will start in Mountain Pose, which is a standing position. The feet will connect to the mat. From the heels and balls of the feet. They will be about hip width apart or two fist lengths. We will extend up through the crown of the head. This is the length and extension we will feel later in the pose. The palms face forward, thumbs out. And shoulders move up to the ears, then down the back into the joints.
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On the inhale, sweep the hands up overhead. And interlace the fingers. Index fingers pointing up to the sky. Keep the shoulders pulled down in the joints. And the feet firmly grounded to the mat.
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On the exhale, fold forward and release the hands. Let gravity and the breath bring the body down towards the earth. The hands can be place on the thighs, ankles or ground depending on the flexibility of our bodies. As we hang heavy here we will deepen the pose with each breath.
On the next inhale we will connect to the earth with the hands. Shift the weight off of the left and into the hands and right foot. Bring the left leg back behind for a lung set up. The right leg will have a bend in it. The deeper the bend the more stable we become. The left leg will go long. And when fully extended will meet the ground at the ball of the foot.
With the breath steady and the balance strong—float the left fingertips to the sky. Open the chest and hip up as well. The goal is to have the upper body and hips in alignment, perpendicular to the ground. The big toe will lead this movement, spiraling the rest of the body. If the balance increases, the head will turn towards the sky and look up at the fingers. This is the full expression and can take some time. Falling out of this pose is natural. When and if it occurs, slowly retrace the steps. We will stay here for five breaths. As the body becomes more comfortable in the pose you may increase your time. To unwind, retrace the steps, ending back in the forward fold. Follow the same sequence for the opposite side. Keep in mind each side will be different with the balance.
Here we will engage the core. And start to float the left toes off of the earth. Push through the heel. And begin to rotate the big to up and away from the earth. When the breath is steady. Place the left hand on the left hip.
Jeramie Vaine is SUP Coach, SUP Yoga and Yoga Instructor. He shares his knowledge and the benefits of yoga at clinics, demos and races around the country. Contact him at jvaine1@gmail.com.
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BUI LT
FOR
O U T S I D E R Sâ„¢
Jamie in Leadbetter Oasis Kaenon.com
KAN-17-060-SUPMAG-FINAL.indd 1
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H OW TO T I P S A F ETY S PONS OR E D B Y
USE YOUR PFD MANUALLY :: When you are stand-up paddling, it is easy to get caught up in the wonder of being on the water. Three important things to remember if you are going to SUP that cannot be stressed enough — 1. Know how to swim. 2. Leash up 3. Wear your PFD. For this Paddle Tip, we are looking at the third.
WEAR YOUR PFD: Most drownings occur way out at sea, right? Wrong! The fact is, 9 out of 10 drownings occur in inland waters, most within a few feet of safety. Most of the victims owned PFDs, but they died without them. A wearable PFD can save your life if you wear it. It won’t do any good attached to your board. Also, make sure you wear it correctly. We frequently see belt PFDs worn backward for whatever reason but remember if you are in an emergency situation you don’t want to think twice about what you have to do. So please wear your PFDs the way they were intended. If you haven’t been wearing your PFD because of the way it makes you look or feel, there’s good news. Today’s PFDs fit better, look better and are easy to move around in, you can check them out at any West Marine Retailer or online at WestMarine.com. Again — before you paddle off, make sure you are wearing your PFD.
West Marine Coastal Automatic Inflatable PFD is US Coast Guard Approved Designed for Coastal and Inland Waters, light weight and doesn’t impede your paddle performance.
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Before you paddle off make sure you are wearing your PFD. As we stated previously to work best wear it properly — PFDs must be worn with all straps, zippers and ties fastened snuggly; tuck in any loose strap ends. When you don’t wear your PFD, the odds are against you. You’re taking a chance on your life.
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Undo the Velcro tabs on the left-hand side of the collar to expose the inflator (side note- each PFD is different so know where the manual inflation tube is in your PFD whether it its a belt PFD or a Coastal Automatic PFD like the one pictured here.) Remove the dust cap from the end of the tube and blow into the tube until the PFD is fully inflated.
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Continue blowing until fully inflated, making sure nothing is held down by the Velcro casing. Once full capacity has been reached your head will securely float above water. If you need assistance be sure to use the whistle attached to the inflation tube and blow the whistle until help arrives or swim to your board or towards shore. **Other important things to remember: Always know exactly how your PFD works, from arming it with the CO2 cylinder, to repacking and storing your PFD. Check all the components thoroughly from the bobbin to the housing of the CO2 cylinder. Properly armed and inspected, manual inflatable PFD models will inflate. PFDs should be checked at the beginning of every season and before each use.
www.mahiku.com
H OW TO TIP S AF E TY
GETTING BACK UP IN THE WIND :: Paddling in the wind is one area of safety in which everyone should know yet many people don’t. Instead of panic, follow these simple steps to get back to the shoreline. We also recommend a personal floatation device and/or leash when paddling. You are out paddling when the wind suddenly picks up and takes you away from shore. You fall off and cannot get back to shore. Here are easy, simple ways to get back in.
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After falling, do not lose grip of your board. If you fall off, get your board before you get your paddle and retrieve it after securing yourself on the board. Secure yourself by grabbing your tail and facing your board in the flow of the wind. Do not try and get up into the wind as strong winds may flip you back over.
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After getting on your board “downwind,” assure you have your paddle back with you. Using your elbows and knees crawl while still facing downwind until you can now use your toes to help you climb to your center point.
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Try and get at least three to six inches past center, with your knees ending up at the center point. Now get on your knees and with your paddle in hand, stay in that position while you turn your board around.
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Grip your paddle down low, near the blade and your other hand around mid-point of the shaft. Turn around and head toward the shore on your knees if the wind restricts you from standing up. Should you be able to get up, paddle on your knees directly into the wind until you gain speed and get up one foot and at a time.
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ROVER FROM
PADDLE
TO
POWER
WORDS > COREY COOPER PIX > SEAN MURPHY
WHEN MAGDA AND I STARTED BOTE, WE HAD A SIMPLE PHILOSOPHY. OUR PRODUCTS, THE PADDLEBOARDS, WOULD SERVE AS A PLATFORM FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN EXACTLY? WELL, THERE ARE LOTS OF DIFFERENT PEOPLE THAT LIKE TO DO DIFFERENT THINGS TO KEEP THEMSELVES ACTIVE IN THE OUTDOORS. THERE’S HIKING, FISHING, PADDLING, YOGA, CAMPING, EXPLORING, AND NAMELESS OTHER HOBBIES. WE WANTED OUR BOARDS TO BE AS INCLUSIVE AS POSSIBLE TO THIS VAST DEMOGRAPHY. WE HAD ONE CAVEAT TO THIS PHILOSOPHY — IT HAD TO BE SIMPLE.
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“Stand Apart through industry-shaping innovation, fresh ideas and simplicity to create a product that defines a lifestyle”... “Stand Apart — through industry-shaping innovation, fresh ideas, and simplicity to create a product that defines a lifestyle.” That’s our mission statement. We thought the key to achieving this simplicity or this “freshness” was to make the boards modular, but minimal. Maintain clean lines, appealing aesthetics, keep the surfaces clear of protrusions — in a nutshell, the opposite of what was happening in the kayak industry. The modular functionality of our boards allowed the paddler to accessorize their boards to fit their lifestyle. Of course, the paddling element played nicely into this desire. It’s as simple a grab a board, a paddle and hit the water.There is no need for fuel, trailers, washing the boat, annual maintenance or oil changes… yeah, yeah, yeah we get it. As our business matured and we began to hit stride with the obvious categories of these lifestyles as mentioned earlier, I began to take notice in particular to a few request we received over and over again. Most of the times these comments came from the people in the fishing and hunting industries.
“Man, those things look cool… can you put a motor on it?”
“Man, those things look cool… can you put a motor on it?” Naturally, we answered, “Hell no, this is a PA-DDLE-BOAR-D.” Much to our chagrin, they’d shake it off and calmly reply “Well, call me if you ever do.” Motors aren’t simple. The entire idea of having to fool around with motors and gasoline and all the other bullshit that came along with it, made me want to vomit. Wouldn’t that defeat the purpose of a paddleboard? As paddleboard fishing became a “thing”, people began to push the boundaries. They wanted to go further, deeper, catch bigger fish, stay out longer. They were all addicted to the same thing — that minimalistic approach to catching fish. I tend to equate it to fly-fishing; it’s not the easiest method of catching a fish, but it’s very technical and satisfying. These guys were doing some rad shit; going off the charts on the flats of Belize, getting lost in the Everglades, inshore tarpon fishing in Nicaragua, some real Jumanji shit. But I tell you, none of what I saw was simple. These dudes would have to load boards onto boats or trucks multiple times a day to cover longer distances to be able to get out and back in a day or sometimes three days! Talk about a pain in the ass. STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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But it was all for that moment when you got to sneak up on a fish by quietly paddling around to get into position — boom. It’s like crack.They put up with all that gear-intensive bullshit just to do that — get high. That’s when I changed my mind about motors. Or maybe it’s because I sat too close to the microwave that night? I realized it wasn’t about the motor replacing the paddle. It was actually to make the entire equation simpler. One rig, huge ranges, motor to your spot (sometimes miles apart), kill the motor, paddle in search of fish, nothing else needed.
So we did it…we added a motor. And we decided to call our new craft Rover. Of course, you can replace the word fish with, hunt, dive, camp, et cetera. What it does is make the paddling portion more satisfying.
Not only can you go further, faster; but you can go out on days when the wind is freaking howling, or the seas are grumpy. So we did it.We added a motor. And we decided to call our new craft Rover. We felt it was an apt title for this craft, in part due to its ability to roam and change. One minute it’s a paddleboard; the next minute it’s a skiff. Don’t get me wrong though — we knew this thing needed to be a “paddle first” design. I wanted it to be a larger derivative of a paddleboard, not a scaled down version of a boat. It also needed to be clean. If you didn’t have a motor on it, you couldn’t tell it would fit a motor. No seats permanently installed, nothing. Just a big ass paddleboard.
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So we just stuck to our fundamentals and decided to achieve this via modularity. I designed a simple Moto Rac system, which simply slides into the elevated deck of the board in seconds. The Moto Rac is the removable “transom” portion of the board, and it’s this part, which the outboard motor mounts to. Furthermore, we added the ability to attach all of our other accessories like the Tackle Rac, Bucket Rac, and a multitude of others as well as what seems like tons of ConnexSUP™ plugs so that the paddler can customize the Rover how they see fit. Clean and simple. We developed and tested the Rover extensively in our Darkroom. We took the boards on excursions through cypress forests and spent a week in the Florida Keys hopping from island to island fishing with local guides to dial it in. It may sound simple, but it was challenging to get this thing to perform right while combining all these new elements. Did I ever say motors would be simple?
This project has done wonders to re-energize me. It’s just so fresh. We didn’t set out to repeal the idea of a paddleboard, only somewhat slightly supplement it and put it in front of some new eyeballs. From our creative department to the sales team our entire company has had a blast with this. What we’ve lacked in sleep, we’ve made up for with excitement. Speaking of excitement, when’s the last time you’ve been on a paddleboard that can do 18mph?
Speaking of excitement, when’s the last time you’ve been on a paddle board that can do 18mph… ? STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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F Ġ in lyin
There are not many bucket lists that do not include a trip to French Polynesia, so why not participate in a SUP Race in Tahiti? Air Tahiti Nui, the official airline of French Polynesia and primary sponsor for the Air Tahiti Nui Paddle Royal Race recognized from the airline’s conception that Tahiti and French Polynesia are bucket list destinations. They also predicted the growing competitiveness among local athletes itching to test their skills amongst the rest of the world. Naturally, French
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The Air Tahiti Nui Paddle Royal B Y
D A N I E L
H A R G R A V E
Ŗ
Pa
adise
Bird’s eye view reveals pristine condtions of the Tahitian waters and racers as they leave the Taapuna Pass. photo: Tahiti Flyshoot
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Polynesia produces some of the strongest watermen and women around. Being on the water is an innate pull for the people of French Polynesia and a way of life. Three years ago, Torea Colas and Maeva Hargrave arrived at this crossroads and figured they could kill two birds with one stone—so to speak. Why not host races that will help people scratch out another destination and event from the proverbial bucket list? Although locals, in numbers and placement, dominate the race there is a small group of international competitors that take advantage of this premier SUP paradise. The race is organized and staffed by volunteers and most if not all are airline employees or “Family” of Air Tahiti Nui, the Tiare Company. Maeva Hargrave, the race organizer, arrived on the SUP scene in her mid-forties after supporting her two sons and their va’a for activities and races. As many paddlers do, she transitioned into
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the stand-up paddling from other water sports, the periodical windsurfing, and kitesurfing, but was looking for an easier way to get on the water. She was hooked, and her love for the sport grew. During this time, Stephan Lambert was hosting the Waterman Series, and Iron Mana Bora Bora. Maeva threw her hat in the ring not knowing what to expect or how she was going to finish. Stephan and the fellow participants welcomed and encouraged her, and an addict was born. She participates in as many races as her schedule will allow and always exits the water with a smile on her face no matter how difficult the race or where she placed. “I am just happy to be on the whatta” (said with a Tahitian accent that has been influenced by hearing Texas English). Maeva and Torea share the same thought that most Tahitians have— the desire to encourage and welcome people to their beautiful islands. Tahitian people are warm, welcoming and proud. They want people
FINDING Ryan Helm and Jade Howson Tahiti bound!
In true tradition the power and energy of the Taka Iki Marquesan Dance and Drum Troop welcome competitors and spectators alike. photo: Tim McKenna
IAORANA P H O T O S
&
S T O R Y
B Y
R O B E R T
H O W S O N
A simple, beautiful greeting from the island of Tahiti. It is a little bit like “Aloha� but different somehow. Older perhaps, with deeper roots, much like this island of the South Pacific. It is believed that voyagers from these islands paddled and sailed across the Pacific Ocean eventually discovering what we now know as Hawaii. Paddling, our common thread brings us together. Our community is a wonderful place where we challenge ourselves while making friends and memories for life. As fate would have it, my daughter Jade and I met Maeva Hargrave, and her Tahitian paddling team, at the Camp Pendleton Race and then again at the Pacific Paddle Games. Little did we know that this new friendship would soon take us to Tahiti along with fellow Riviera team rider, Ryan Helm.
Frenzied paddlers hit the water for the Paddle Elite Race the vibe is electric. photo: Tim McKenna
to see what they were born to—the exquisite scenery. Words and pictures provide only a partial assessment of French Polynesia’s real beauty. Colors are limitless and are not all present in my 64-crayon pack (yeah, the one with the crayon sharpener). The water is clearer than a swimming pool but displays shades of blue that gives way to lush green mountainsides. Air Tahiti Nui carries this pride as well. Striving to convey their welcoming spirit, they realize that they are the first and last impression that visitors will have. Flight attendants greet you with a warm and welcoming smile and are in their “formal” uniforms. Before serving drinks and meals, they change into their serving dresses with the Tiare flower patterned throughout. The opening announcement on the plane is done in Tahitian, French, and English and captures travelers’ interest as they start to immerse themselves into their trip. Attentive and relaxed, it is not uncommon to find a flight attendant kneeling in
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the aisles and speaking at length with passengers sharing insight into their island and culture. Starting your descent into Faa’a International Airport, you see lights sprinkled on the hillside and the reflections on the water. The airport is a long single runway and the plane taxis to the gate under its own power. Passengers become more eager to leave the confines of the plane. As you disembark, you are welcomed with a Tiare flower and a wave of humidity from the outside air—a greeting that reminds you of your arrival in a tropical destination. You exit down stairs reminiscent of a past era. Prior to entering customs and immigration, you are greeted with traditional Tahitian band of three. One can only presume that they are singing the oldies. As you approach the immigration booth, you catch a glimpse of the baggage carousel, and you realize how small the airport is. Your mind starts taking note of the miscellaneous bags, tires, and boxes that are circling the carousel, further reminding you that you are in fact in a place much
“There are not many bucket lists that do not include
Heifara Navarro showing Howson and Helm the lay of the land.
a trip to French Polynesia, so why not participate in a SUP Race in Tahiti?”
The Air Tahiti Nui Paddle Royal was in its third year, and Maeva Hargrave was the race director. She wanted Jade and Ryan to be there to race, but equally, important to her was for them to experience Tahiti and spread the word of this world-class paddling destination. Before we knew it, we were at LAX to meet Maeva’s husband Daniel who would be accompanying us to Tahiti! He assisted us in getting to the Air Tahiti Nui ticket counter where we checked in our boards and paddles with ease. Boarded and in our seats and ready for our flight—we could not be more stoked! Good movies, videos on paddling, and great meals made the time pass comfortably. The anticipation was overwhelming as we touched down at Faa’a International Airport. Walking down the ramp, we could hear the sounds of a local Tahitian band playing music for our arrival. The humidity and warmth in the air felt great! We picked up our gear and cleared customs. Shortly thereafter— ”Iaorana!” That beautiful greeting expressed to us from our host and race director, Maeva, and a group of her friends including ATN staff photographer Pascal Hatuuku and the local Riviera rep Heifara Navarro. Multiple fragrant Tiare leis were presented to us. It was an epic moment! Shortly we were whisked away to the beautiful Le Méridien Hotel. We knew that the days to come would be amazing! After the delicious morning breakfast of Poisson Cru and French pastries, we were picked up in the truck by Heifara. He had the 14’ Riviera RP’s already strapped on it, so we headed off to Orohiti to check out the course and the event site. Jade and Ryan got in the water immediately after some photo ops and interviews. Paddling the inner reef in warm, clear, coral-filled water with the local outrigger team practicing nearby was perfect. They paddled out to the opening in the reef pass to access the line for the race the following day. You couldn’t ask for more perfect warm up in ideal conditions. The rest of the day was spent relaxing and anticipating.
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Lorenzo Bennett rounding Air Tahiti Nui’s buoy on his way to victory. Photo: Va’a News
different from which you came. The sliding doors open as you exit customs—a crowd of people welcoming loved ones and visitors with leis. Race day starts early for the organizers and volunteers. Before there is even light outside, volunteers’ cars and trucks steadily arrive. TBS 5, the company that livestreams the event has been busy setting up all night. Stage and tents were set up the night before. Although there seems like there is a lot of work left to be done, no one is panicked or stressed out. With the volunteer’s efforts, the race site is taking form. Maeva is bouncing around between locations and directing the joyous efforts. They are having fun; Tahitians make a festival out of most anything. A man arrives introducing himself to Maeva. His name is Gauguin, and he is a proxy for his nephew who could not assist with the event because of his work/flight schedule. Gauguin and I are quickly teamed together to help with moving tables and setting up banners. Gauguin’s English is above decent. He tells me that he learned English by talking with tourist and never learned English in school. He calls me Daniela, Tahitian for Daniel. He informs me he is named after his Great Grandfather, Paul Gauguin. I could not help but think to myself that this guy knew no one, but came to help because his nephew asked him
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Cadence of Paddle Elite racers on crystal blue waters. photo: Tim McKenna
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Each competitor has a relationship with the ocean as they head in the direction of the the Nordhoff Pass Buoy. photo: Tim McKenna
to fill in because he could not be there. I knew that Air Tahiti Nui and its employees consider themselves family, I am impressed with this simple, humble gesture. Athletes are arriving to unload their boards. As they greet each other, laugh and joke, I could not help but wonder where their “game faces” were. It is a race after all with some coveted prizes at stake. I realize shortly that their competitiveness reveals itself once the race starts, ends and once that finish line is crossed. Riviera Team riders, Jade Howson and Ryan Helm, arrive and assimilate easily. Ryan Helm is soft spoken, but the first to extend his hand to greet competitors, exchange smiles and conversation as he makes his way through the registration line.
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Jade Howson is 14 years old, but her demeanor makes you forget she is such a young competitor. Only when you see her interact with the local kids, do you realize her actual age. She is an impressive young lady. After the riders’ complete registration, they all hit the water to get in their warm up strokes. Pot’s, the announcer, summons all the competitors to their designated positions for a staggered start. The race location has a dock that allows the officials and spectators, alike, a good vantage point. The dock doubles as a stage for a traditional Marquesan dance and drum troop marking the start of the race. Drums, vibrating carry over the water energizing the crowds that are gathering around and behind them.
Robert and Jade at the iconic Teahupo’o.
Jade warming up on new waters.
“PADDLING, OUR COMMON THREAD BRINGS US TOGETHER.” Saturday, the day of the Air Tahiti Nui Paddle Royal had arrived. The site at Orohiti filled quickly with many local and international SUP and prone athletes. Tents shielded the staff and paddlers from the increasing heat of the day. On the dock in front of the race comity, a drum group from the Marquesas Islands assembled in full traditional dress. Final sign-ups made and jerseys were given out. It was all about to go down. The primal drum beats began as the water patrol and racers assembled. Instructions were given. More drumming, as paddlers entered the water heading for the start line. Then came silence as everyone crept for best positions. The shell horn sounded, the drums began, huge cheers and screams from the beach signaled— unquestionably the race started! Quickly the pack began to form a pace line as they paddled toward Taapuna pass then out to the open ocean. A drone followed as they headed outside then left down toward Paea. Several miles later they a turned on the Nordhoff Buoy along the coral shelf. Elite paddlers skirted the reef for miles and caught waves as they returned through the pass to the protected calm waters inside the barrier reef. From a distance, the drums began again as the paddlers raced by the dock with friends, family, and sponsors cheering wildly. The pack continued towards Taina Marina then back towards Taapuna. This scene repeated itself throughout the second and final lap of the 15km race with the island of Moorea in the background and a light breeze blowing. Sweat poured from all the paddlers as they sprinted across the finish line to massive cheers mixed with the ever-present beat of the drums. Smiles, triumph, and tribulation where all a part of this day. Tasty local cuisine was served. Fortunate racers stepped on the podium as several deserving first place finishers received Air Tahiti Nui round trip tickets! Race stories where shared into the late hours. It was clear that Maeva’s efforts had paid off. This event was more primal and soulful than any other race we have ever attended. It is sized small enough to be intimate and big enough to attract top athletes. It represents the best of our sport. It represents the amazing heritage and fitness of the Tahitian paddlers. It represents Tahiti! Boarding a ferry the following day in Papeete allowed Maeva, Daniel and their family to take us to the neighboring island of Moorea for a postrace event at the Sofitel Kia’ora Hotel. We had lunch next to a wild poolside Powerade sponsored party. Jade and the local Tahitian kids bailed and headed out to explore the reef. A short walk later found us captivated by some local music. Naturally, Maeva started dancing, and Daniel could not stop smiling. This is the Tahiti I dreamt about! We needed more time to explore the island of Moorea. We did get a chance to drive around to see the lush beauty of the land free of traffic congestion, fragrant and inviting.
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Riviera’s team riders, Helm and Howson “getting loose.”
Driving past Cooks Bay, we saw many small humble homes perched right on the sand with the barrier reef protecting them. It is magic! Swimming pool clear water with all manner of sea life. It is the ultimate place to paddle! Miles upon miles of protected waters teaming with life. It may be the ultimate place to live. The ride back on the top deck of the Aremiti ferry from Vaiare ferry terminal to Papeete was equally as beautiful as the ride there. We all imagined what it would be like to paddle the 40km or so between these two islands and when best to do it. I found out that the locals do it often for training and racing. In fact, there are several events that include island crossings to many other neighboring islands. Arriving at the dock our conversation turned naturally to food. Maeva and Daniel decided that the best option were the local food trucks. Good call as this was very close to the port. The exchange rate to Tahitian francs was reasonable, so good food was relatively inexpensive. We dined on great local fish followed by huge chocolate filled crepes. Late that evening we headed back to the hotel to rest for the next day. After breakfast and an early walk on the sand, we headed up to meet Heifara and his wife, Nanu. Today we were going to Teahupo’o! Ryan was frothing to get shacked on his Riviera Whirly Dervish SUP. Jade was stoked to jump into the lineup to check it out. The ride to Teahupo’o was filled with notable conversation as Heifara told us of the history of this land. Arriving at Teahupo’o, we could see that there was swell in the water. We found ourselves on the doorstep of a local family, with an introduction to a man affectionately called “Baby.” His family has lived in the area for generations. Baby’s daughter is a champion va’a paddler. His dad would be the one to take us all out to the break in his fishing boat. It did not take us long to load up, and we were at the edge of the reef before we knew it. The engine had barley stopped when Ryan jumped from the boat and started to paddle into the lineup. Jade without hesitation followed with her fins on. Within minutes Ryan got his first nugget—a doughnut or two followed by multiple barrels. This was the other side of Tahitian water—raw and challenging. Our captain decided to leave Ryan in the lineup so we could do some exploring down the coast past where cars can’t go. The only way to get to some of these homes would be by boat. Stopping at the mouth of a river, we docked and hiked
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“Your mind returns as racers pass
Georges Cronsteadt, Rete Ebb, Steeve Teihotaata and Niuhiti Buillard look to catch the glide that will give them the advantage in the next paddle stroke. photo: Tim McKenna
the Nordhoff Buoy, heading outside the reef then reentering at the same break...”
Anyone who has ever had the opportunity to hear Polynesian drums understands the power and energy that the drums create. Blowing of the Pu or conch is the sign the race is underway. What a memorable start to a race set in such a beautiful location. On this bright, hot morning, the neighboring island of Moorea seems to be just beyond the lagoon that the racers were competing on. Following the progress from the dock, your focus is vulnerable to the scenery. It is easy to follow the outline of Moorea only to be engrossed in the impressive reef break of Taapuna. Your mind returns as racers pass the Nordhoff Buoy, heading outside the reef then reentering at the same break you were just lost in. Local Lorenzo Bennett timing was right— snaring the wave, putting him in the lead, but so did many of the other elite riders. What a great course—flat-water straights, buoy turns, a run outside the reef and a strategic opportunity to reenter the lagoon via some solid waves. Meanwhile back at the race site spectators discovers plenty of entertainment as performers took the stage. Tako and Kura (Mama Roro & Papa Penu), a well known comedy team. The best way to describe their act is a mix between Fred Sanford, Three Stooges, Ru Paul and Tenacious D combined. Proficient musicians, they performed local songs, mixed with jokes in Tahitian, which I could not understand, but made me laugh just the same. It would not be a Tahitian festival without spontaneous dancing prompted by the local music. The lineup was full of activities from Cross Training demonstrations, water rescue, local fashion and music. Torea, a favorite local band, played before and after the awards were given out. STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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“What a great course—flat-water
the reef and a strategic opportunity to
Competitors surfing the wave during their entrance at the Taapuna pass. photo: Tim McKenna
straights, buoy turns, a run outside
reenter the lagoon via some solid waves.�
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Steeve Teihotaata (right) and Rete Ebb (left) determination rides with them on the wave. photo: Tim McKenna
Enzo Bennett, the winner of the 3rd edition of Air Tahiti Nui Paddle Royal Race photo: Tim McKenna
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inland to a fresh water cave. It was an amazing experience that few have had. After some sketchy dark water swimming, we headed back by way of an epic rope swing. Time to pick up Ryan. It turns out that Ryan had already paddled in. He had broken his favorite board and raked his back across the shattered fiberglass on the deck. At the dock, we could see that he needed some attention. Soon Baby’s daughter arrived with some fresh limes for his wounds. She squeezed it directly onto his cuts—ouch! We were honored to be treated to a beautiful home cooked meal of chicken, fish, and Hinano beer. Jade hung out with the local kids swimming with fresh water eels in the stream behind their home. With a promise to return soon we said thank you and good-bye and headed back to town. Another perfect day in Tahiti. The red eye flight back to reality followed that evening. It was hard to say good-bye to the friends that we had met. Maeva, Heifara, and his family came to the airport to see us off closing out a fantastic trip. Upon retrospect, I would say that Tahiti offers some of the best SUP conditions in the world—period! Warm clear water, miles upon miles of lagoons protected by barrier reefs, open ocean swells, interisland distance paddling, downwind potential, and serious waves of consequence. Jade and Ryan found the Tahitian paddlers to be warm and inviting. They are extremely competitive and crazy fit. Their lives and the lives of their ancestors are all about paddling. They embrace the challenge even more than the podium. The training that they do is insane by most standards. Big miles—wind or no wind. Inspiring! Jade, Ryan and I agree that Maeva and Air Tahiti Nui put together a soulful experience that is truly the essence of Tahiti. The warmth of its people only eclipses the beauty of this place. The 2018 Air Tahiti Nui Paddle Royal is less than a year away, so plan to be there, not just for the race but also for as many days as it takes to drink in the islands of Tahiti. “Iaorana!”
Ryan Helm at the finish line a rewarding 1st place on the SUP Elite Master Podium photo: Va’a News
“JADE, RYAN AND I AGREE THAT MAEVA AND AIR TAHITI NUI PUT TOGETHER A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE THAT IS TRULY THE ESSENCE OF TAHITI. THE WARMTH OF ITS PEOPLE ONLY ECLIPSES THE BEAUTY OF THIS PLACE.”
Jade clearly enjoying the best SUP conditions in the world that Tahiti has to offer!
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Many thanks to all our fine sponsors and to Olivier Lubrano for designing our banner. photo: Va’a News
“Air Tahiti Nui and Maeva strived for an impressive award ceremony
Special Air Tahiti Nui Flight Attendant Podium : David Foster with Maeva Hargrave and Vainui Raapoto. photo: Stephane Mounier
Women’s SUP Elite: (L to R): Sylvanna Ozbolt and Vaimiti Maoni (not pictured Teanatea Tetoe. photo: Va’a News
Mens SUP Elite Masters: Kaley Teriitahi, Ryan Helm, Jean-Luc Saucet with Maeva Hargrave photo: Va’a News
Air Tahiti Nui and Maeva strived for an impressive award ceremony wanting to make sure that certain classes were acknowledged. These classes included the top three elite men and women, master’s men and women, and a combined class for 14 and under. The novice race also had the top three from each class recognized. Without the help of these great sponsors, the Air Tahiti Nui event would not be able to fly. Thanks to Air Tahiti Nui airline, Tahiti Tourism, the Meridien Hotel/Tahiti(www. lemeridientahiti.com), Tim McKenna Photography, Tahiti Fly Shoot, TBS 5, OPT, Riviera Paddle Surf, Intercontinental Tahiti Resorts & Spa Hotel, Powerade, ARE Tahiti, Enviropol, Aremiti, Radio 1, Va’a News Magazine, ATN va’a (Vetea
Mens SUP Elite: Steve Teihotaata, Lorenzo Bennett, Rete Ebb
Sanford, OLP, Stephane Mounier, 425 Pro, Pascal Erhel Hatuuku and Backstage, Shop Tahiti, Viper Va’a, Reef, Tako & Kura, Cross Training Tahiti, The band- Torea, Natuarai, the City of Punaauia, along with international contributros, Powerhouse Retail Serves, ET Surf, and Harbour Surfboard. With extraordinary thanks to Johanna Tinomano and Tubei Teriinobo the co-organziers, Oliver Lubrano and all the Air Tahiti Nui Staff!
It’s never to early to start planning to attend the next Air Tahitit Nui Paddle Royal invite stay posted on next year’s event www.facebook. com/airtahitinuipaddleroyalrace or email, maevahargrave@yahoo.fr
wanting to make sure that certain classes were acknowledged.”
SUP Elite Junior Mixed (L to R): Teavatea Wong, Keoni Sulpice, Keahi Agnieray. photo: Va’a News
Women’s SUP Elite Master (L to R): Martine Fan, Mareva Blouin, Marguerite Temaiana. photo: Va’a News
Whether charging big waves, massive closed out sections or flying across channels and finish lines, Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly. The young man rides aggressively and fast, like a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear.
THE BRAVE BEAR Whether charging big waves, massive closed out sections or flying across channels and finish lines, Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly. The young man rides aggressively and fast, like a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear.
Whether charging big waves, massive closed out sections or flying across channels and finish lines, Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly. The young man rides aggressively and fast, like a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear.
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Relaxed and ready on home turf Brave Bear can’t wait to get back on the water. Photo: Frankie Bees
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MY NAME IS BERND; it’s a German name that means “Brave as the Bear,” something that was passed down from an old relative, Uncle Bernd, who was very important to my dad. And it’s fine for people to pronounce it any way they like. It is, as I’m well aware, an unusual name. While I go by the pronunciation “Bant,” I can see how that’s literally the most confusing when looking at the sequence of letters B-E-R-N-D! I wasn’t always fond of the name, and I got teased for it, as you could imagine. But nowadays I think about the meaning behind the name, the Brave Bear, I feel like the way any name sounds means very little compared to the person wearing it. And if I, the one behind the name, can embody any amount of courage and strength in my life, then I’ll give it meaning that goes beyond pronunciation. I was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, and moved to Maui at a young age. A few months after being born, I got extremely sick. Doctors couldn’t tell what was wrong with me; no one had any treatment ideas, my white blood cells were disappearing. After months of tests, my parents stressed beyond belief, and the specialists had identified that I had Neutropenia. It really was a brush with death—I just got lucky and scraped by. Sometimes, it makes me shiver to think about how close I was, that everything could’ve ended before it ever began. My parents were relieved, overjoyed, but also crippled by
Whether charging big waves, massive closed out sections or flying across
“... I’ve been so fortunate runs across the water fearlessly. The young to aggressively wander man rides and fast, like a man the but world on a mission moves asand brave as a bear. experience it, massive Whether charging big waves, alloutthe while closed sections or flying across practicing an Roediger channels and finish lines, Bernd activity runs across the water that fearlessly.IThe young love deeply...” man rides aggressively and fast, like a man channels and finish lines, Bernd Roediger
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on a mission but moves as brave as a bear.
Photo: Frankie Bees
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At this year’s APP Tour at Sunset Beach, Roediger made the overhead surf look like child’s play. Photo: Eric Haka
the medical bills. They were both fresh out of the military, and they didn’t have much tying them to South Carolina so why not try Hawaii? After all the stress and worry, I think they just wanted to be happy. Yes, the situation had been terrible, but it positively affected our lives. It helped all of us to understand the frailty of life—how precious it is. Even now, we value out time together and celebrate the fact that, beyond anything else, we are alive. Over the years, I’ve been so fortunate to wander the world and experience it, all the while practicing an activity that I love deeply, sharing that love with friends and strangers alike. I have been to some really cool places, Indonesia, the Marshall Islands, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, Europe, to Asia and North America to South America. What makes the traveling unique, is the constant in every variable—no matter how far away from home I am, in whatever strange place, there’s always a single tether to anchor the memories. Surfing. Riding waves around the world is so unique. You can naturally marvel at the variety of nature, all over the world. But you can also observe similarities, patterns, links; you can really grasp how interconnected the planet is. That is the way nature works. It inspires me to try to be a positive element in that worldwide network. Well, I’m not very regimented in how much time I spend doing any one discipline and sport. Since I’m on the APP World Tour for paddle surfing and racing, I try to dedicate time to those sports.
Whether charging big waves, massive closed out sections or flying across channels and finish lines,
“Surfing has a Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly. subjective nature, The young man rides aggressively and fast, like a beauty that lies a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear. in the eye of the Whether charging big waves, beholder. Andmassive to closed out sections or flying across channels and finish lines, really appreciate Bernd Roediger runs across water fearlessly. surfing, I feeltheyou The young man rides aggressively and fast, like have to understand artistic andas brave as a bear. a man onits a mission but moves spiritual side.” STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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Windsurfing is my first love, it’s kind of how I got into the ocean, and so I like to make time for it. But, if it isn’t windy, then I might not sail for a month, then when I come back to it, it’s sort of like falling in love all over again. Surfing helps me a lot as well. Since I don’t have any aspirations of being a pro, like in paddle surfing or windsurfing, I don’t feel the same pressures. While I agree that I’m an athlete, and compete in sports, I also think there’s another element to surfing. Sports have clear goals and definitive scoring systems, but surfing struggles with those concepts, that broad, thick line of unquestionable objectivity. Surfing has a subjective nature, a beauty that lies in the eye of the beholder. And to really appreciate surfing, I feel you have to understand its artistic and spiritual side. It can’t be trained; it can’t be won, it has to grow from somewhere within. So no matter what I’m doing, I like to let my inspirations drive me there. As I said before, windsurfing is my first love. I learned when I was seven years old, and for the past 13 years, solely my dad has coached me. He had been a windsurfer for years—I grew up watching him and being inspired by the way he windsurfed. I didn’t know anything about the pros, as far as I was concerned, my dad was the best! And even as the years progressed, and I started to develop my passion into a career, I held on to the idea of just having fun with my friends and family first. Being a very emotional person, I feel that for the most part, my best riding comes when I’m happy. So the results that I’m proud of have always come when good people surround me, with enthusiasm for fun! As for the APP tour (the world SUP tour), I really don’t think that I’m that much better than any of the other guys on tour. Each year, the level of talent not only raise but branches outward. What I mean is that while the good guys get better, new talent also emerges and new athletes become seriously challenging to compete against. At this point, the 3rd round is already tough, and some of those Round 3 heats felt like finals! I just think that doing well in an event is about skill, but it also requires strategy, good timing, the right equipment, and a lot of luck! I’m lucky to have made it to the Finals for another
Whether charging big waves, massive closed out sections or flying across channels and finish lines,
“I have a saying, “Regrets like and fast, like The young man rides are aggressively shoes foras brave as a bear. a manlead on a mission but moves your soul, theymassive areclosed out Whether charging big waves, the blinders on and finish lines, sections or flying across channels Berndyour Roedigermind’s runs acrosseye.” the water fearlessly. Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly.
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a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear.
Roediger’s knows that his best riding comes when he’s happy and having fun. Photo: Frankie Bees
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sections or flying across channels and finish lines,
I want to keep running through The young man rides aggressivelythe and fast, like world with wide a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear. eyes and light feet, Whether charging big waves, massive closed out taking in as much sections or flying across channels and finish lines, as I can process Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly. while this crazy ride The young man rides aggressively and fast, like is still going! Bernd Roediger runs across the water fearlessly.
a man on a mission but moves as brave as a bear. year. Also, Sunset is basically in my backyard, so I felt very comfortable. Just look out for me when we get to New York, and I have to try to ride beach breaks! A typical day at home on Maui starts pretty early, not because I’m waking up to train but because my dog is kinda old and needs to go outside to pee. I make a pre-surf smoothie so I can drink it on my way to check the surf. I try to get a session in before the wind comes up! Right now, I’m sticking to smaller waves so that I can be a little more competitive in the beach break contests this summer. After the day’s first surf, it’s back to the shack to make breakfast. My dad runs his own business, repairing appliances for major warranty brands. Some days he needs help with a particular job, other days I’ll work with him in exchange for a downwinder shuttle service! Regardless, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to be doing what I love and to be making a job out of having fun. In the afternoon, the wind is usually up enough to windsurf! Ho’okipa is the best place to windsurf in the world, and I’ve probably spent like a 20% of my life there. The water time is also my thinking time, and if I’ve got something on my mind, you might see me sail out, way out about a mile offshore, slowly putting into the wind on a lazy tack, just wandering…. The nights on Maui are short and quiet, the way I like them. If I can barely keep my eyes open at 8:30—it’s been a good day.” So where does the heart and soul of the Brave Bear go next? Let’s say where am I not I going? Ha-ha! I’ve been pretty truant from the International Windsurfing Tour in years past, so I’ve decided to attend more of those events—specifically Morocco, Barbados, Oregon, and Peru! In paddle surfing, I’m excited to compete in the Santa Cruz Paddle Fest, the APP World Tour, and I’m even trying my hand at the ISA Championship trials this year! I’d rather have to eat macaroni and cheese for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and see the world, than squander my opportunities and sit here, a year older, wondering what could have been. I have a saying, “Regrets are like lead shoes for your soul, they are the blinders on your mind’s eye, I want to keep running through the world with wide eyes and light feet, taking in as much as I can process while this crazy ride is still going! With a mindset so free and fast—Bernd Roediger keeps moving, and the Brave Bear’s sky has no limits.
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Roediger keeps moving, free and fast! Photo: Frankie Bees
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QUIVERS & W H E E L S AU B RE Y KUEPPER
by Paul Ensyde
KUEPPER WHEELS
The Kuepper clan – locked and loaded for any swell that may come their way. Photo: Marcy Browe
AND WAVE VEHICLES Aubrey Kuepper CARLSBAD, CA F O R D T R A N S I T S P R I N T E R VA N SURF SPOT: SUCK OUTS (CARDIFF REEF) O C C U PAT I O N : V P S A L E S & M A R K E T I N G AT C O B I A N F O O T W E A R
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Aubrey eyes up his backside reentry on a small yet fun-sized glassy morning. Photo: Fluxphotosup
Aubrey Kuepper has been on the water as a surfer since he was a kid growing up along the southern California coastline. Till this day he still has the stoke, and with the right wheels, his daily ritual remains as driving as his sprinter van. Says Kuepper, “I grew up in Orange County and also started surfing at age five in 1969. I was a Huntington Beach pier rat (South side) until 1979 when I decided to mosey on down Pacific Coast Highway a few miles to Zooport. Quickly I found my bearings and planted myself at 36th Street. After graduating Servite High School in ’82 I decided on attending U.C.S.D. as Blacks is one of the best breaks in SO-CAL (Pepperdine was my alternate choice but being a goofy foot made my decision to head South a little easier). After a couple of years in La Jolla, I moved to Leucadia in 1984 and decided to make North County my surfing epicenter and have been surfing here ever since.”
So away from the subject of waves, what are you driving to your local surf break? “The Ford Transit does not come in a crew van configuration (like Mercedes), so I added a second row of seats to make it family-friendly. Even with the additional seats, the interior racks will hold up to a 12’6” race board although it generally just accommodates all my surfboards. Even with four boards in the racks, there is still ample room for my daughter’s boards in the rear cargo space. To maximize my
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QUIVERS & WHEELS AUBREY KUEPPER
Delaney applying some war paint. Headhunter ought to consider selling this stuff in vats as fast as we go through it. Photo: Fluxphotosup
surf time I was mainly looking for was a way to head straight from the surf to work without having to worry about board theft or UV damage. Getting away from pick-up trucks into the van was the obvious way to accomplish this. This mid-height, mid-length version has a couple of inches of headroom to spare—I am only six feet tall. I am considering a simple bed/storage unit in the back but other than that I am trying to keep it simple. I have had a lot of toys in the past where I went all-in with every conceivable feature, but since this vehicle is not intended for extended surfaris, I am doing my best to keep modifications to a minimum.” Tell us about the van, for work, doing R&D, how it ties into your job. “Well as everybody knows, you can’t beat the practicality of a van. To be honest, the decision to get the van was strictly to support my SUP surfing. I am pretty rough on my boards, so I am trying to extend their life by keeping them racked in the van 24/7 when I am not surfing. Since I work in the surf industry, the vehicle plays double-duty as a moving billboard, and it currently features the art of well-renowned artist Wade
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Koniakowsky. Of course, the Transit has lots of interior room enabling me to keep a ton of Cobian sandals with me at all times—which I freely give to others who generate a good vibe in the water.” Describe a daily day in the life for you. “Some might say it is a bit mundane, but I consider myself blessed to have my version of Groundhog Day – which basically entails a threehour, paddle surf session from about 6:30 - 9:30 A.M. every morning at Cardiff before heading into Cobian. Getting to enjoy God’s creation each day puts me in the right headspace to appreciate what I have been given and to do my best to help others throughout the day.” What do you ride? “I have ridden a variety of shapes from King’s Paddle Sports over the years, but my daily driver is my signature model - the “Triple Threat.” Essentially, it’s a pin-tailed, high performance, tri-fin that resembles a hybrid longboard. It has a single concave running through the entire board, which makes it lightning fast. In my book, you can always slow your board down, but it’s hard to generate speed out of a slow one.
Aubrey and Delaney dawn patrolling it – warm water and lightly textured offshore mornings is what all surfers yearn for. Photo: Chris Peck
Delaney throwin’ some Aloha while enjoying the stoke that only surfing can bring. Photo: Fluxphotosup
“Well as everybody knows, you can’t beat the practicality of a van. To be honest, the decision to get the van was strictly to support my SUP surfing.” STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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QUIVERS & WHEELS AUBREY KUEPPER Zane’s the ultimate waterman with the ultimate heart. He and Delaney both are involved in many efforts to assist others and truly live the Every Step Matters motto when it comes to helping others. Photo: Aubrey Kuepper
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Front-side fade at PCG’s (formerly Charlie’s). Although the name of some breaks may change, the left at this spot remains the same Photo: Chris Peck
Aubrey adhering to the old adage “cross-step never shuffle.” Cardiff is not for a lack of style and is home to some of the best long-boarders in the world. Photo: Fluxphotosup
As the name suggests, the Triple Threat is designed to accomplish three things: surf off the tail like a short board, generate speed in the midsection for floaters and barrel sections, and nose ride (check out the unique toe-bar). I usually ride a 9’8, but it comes in a variety of sizes.” What makes Cardiff a great place to surf? “I think there are a few factors, the most relevant probably being the way Cardiff picks up a variety of swell directions providing better than the average size surf for the area on a consistent basis. Although there are at least four distinct breaks within a couple of hundred yard stretch,
I primarily surf Suck Outs. As the name implies, it can get a bit ledgy on the right conditions and can also offer a few challenging sections to play with before it runs into the channel. The other spots (South Peak, the Sandbar, and Georges) are mainly beach breaks with a few rock fingers thrown into the mix which also has their moments.” What is it like being able to surf with your daughter every day? “Surfing with Delaney since she was five years old has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Being both her father and coach has allowed her to accelerate her surfing skills well beyond her age—it STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /
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has also been invaluable cross training for playing goalie for Carlsbad’s Water Polo team and Junior Lifeguards. Beyond the innumerable surf memories created in the lineup, I also treasure the countless hours we have spent together bonding, teaching life lessons and learning about her dreams and goals. Hopefully, she will benefit from this time together and will look back at it fondly in the future.” Tell us about Cobian the company and its beginnings up to today’s growth. “Cobian was founded 21 years ago by John Cobian and his sister Claudia. It is a faith-based brand whose mission (despite the fact that we make surf-inspired footwear) is to show love to those around us and to give back to those less fortunate. Cobian has been living out this mission before “Cause-Based” marketing became a fad. As a business consultant by trade, I worked with hundreds of companies over my career before serving in my role at Cobian. I am proud to represent the brand and I can attest to the fact that I have never seen a more authentic, caring, ethical group of individuals. Cobian footwear is available in retail stores from surf shops to department stores or at leading e-tailers such as Zappos or Amazon. For more info, you can visit: CobianUSA.com” Tell us about your shaper, your boards. “My stoke for surfing was waning after nearly 40 years in the water – and thankfully I found it again during my first Sup session about six years ago. During those early decades, I rode everything from shortboards to logs from a variety of labels: Wave Tools, Rusty, Velzy, Bing, Brewer, Weber, and others. Although I have ridden boards off the rack, the majority of my boards have always been custom shaped.
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When I was first introduced to SUP, I was hard pressed to find a custom board—until I chanced upon King’s Paddle Sports. To my amazement, the factory was only a few miles from my house. A single phone call later, I was introduced to Rhonda Daum, and shortly after that, I found myself in the shaping bay with master shaper Dave Daum (co-founders of King’s). I am a strong believer that the right equipment will accelerate one’s learning curve. There is no better way to improve your surfing than to have a board made for you based on your skill level, your height/weight, your style of surfing and the type of waves/breaks you surf most often. King’s has all the tools necessary to accomplish this including a state of the art CAD system, CNC machine, and the highest-grade materials— most importantly the gifted eye of a shaper who has produced more than 25,000 boards over his lifetime. This toolset has allowed me to not miss a beat in my transition from traditional surfing to SUP—increasing both my wave count and enjoyment of surfing.” Add some etiquette to newbies in the lineup? “I am often asked by other SUP’ers how they should go about being integrated into a local line-up. Without oversimplifying, my advice depends on two factors: a) whether you surfed (or how well you surfed) before SUP and b) how familiar are other surfers with you at the break in question. If prone surfers can easily recognize your surf skills on a SUP (despite your paddling skills), you will most likely be provided a little bit of grace, provided you do not violate any of the unwritten codes of the line-up (for which there are several important ones). If you do not know what I am referring to, then I highly advise staying out of any recognized surf break where there are surfers present. If however, you are a surfer through and through, understand all these rules (and
Easy to spot amongst a crowd of wetsuit clad surfers, Aubrey (aka the Cardiff Polar Bear) trunks it year round and finds a little tiptime on a brisk winter morning. Photo: Fluxphotosup
“Getting to enjoy God’s creation each day puts me in the right headspace to appreciate what I have been given and to do my best to help others throughout the day.”
follow them) AND you have spent time in your local lineup then most likely you will not be antagonized too much. In the end, it’s all about respect and paying your dues. If you are a newbie, take it one step at a time, learn the rules of the road and consider rotating out your SUP with a prone board until you mix in with the locals in your line-up. I believe Ian Cairns recently wrote a Code of Conduct to help new SUP’ers that can be found on the Internet.” Special thanks? “Last but not least, a special shout-out to my lovely wife Claudia— the cornerstone of our family who supports me and my daughter’s addiction to SUP and all things ocean.”
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REVIEW
THE BARNACLE
by Speaqua Sound Co. // SPEAQUA.com
Join the Vibe Tribe! The Barnacle and The Barnacle + (4GB Built-in memory) are 100% functionally waterproof, floatable, with Bluetooth speakers built to accompany the adventurer and withstand the elements. What does it mean to be “functionally waterproof?” While other companies simply label their products as both “Bluetooth” and “Waterproof” Speaqua has created a first-of-its-kind speaker to surpass the inherit problems that come with other Bluetooth speakers. Bluetooth can’t transmit through water, which essentially makes other speakers useless if you want to bring them off land. This is where Speaqua comes in (Que the Barnacle). With its 4GB of built in memory, the Barnacle solves this problem by offering consumers a way to bring their music where other speakers can’t go. Enduring the highest level waterproof rating out there (IP68)- you can dunk this speaker under a wave, toss it in the sand, or stick it on your paddle board. The Barnacle can hang!
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F E A T U R E S O F T H E B A R N A C L E : Built in Memory enabling device to download up to 1,000 songs. (PLUS units only) 100% Waterproof (IP68) Floatable (with speaker facing up allowing music to play) Fully Dust/Sand Proof Bluetooth connectivity up to 10 meter (33 feet) away Caller ID Function/Microphone for taking hands free calls Suction Cup allowing the speaker to stick to any smooth surface Ultra Portable Rechargeable battery (lasting up to 5 hours of full volume playtime)
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