Standup Paddle Magazine

C R O SS T R A I N I N G WITH EJ JOHNSON

H O T S PO T

SHELTER ISLAND, SAN DIEGO

S TA N D U P P A D D L E M A G A Z I N E V O L 8 N º 3

PADDLE IT FORWARD F

A REID INOUYE PUBLICATION

A V OYA G E O F DI S C O V E R Y D O W N T H E A PA L A C H I C O L A

EE

OR L GO O D ST

Y

A V OYA G E O F D I S C O V E R Y : A PA L A C H I C O L A R I V E R

OYSTERS & NEED WATER BEER,THAT’S CLEAR

LUESMITHS AB

VOL8Nº3/U.S. $10.95/CAN $12.95

POWERFUL PERFORMANCE Time is precious; timing on the water is priceless. Whether racing, touring or training, get the most from every stroke with the brand that leads the pack.

Ridden by the top athletes in the world—such as 7x World Champion Kai Lenny—Naish Glide and Javelin Series boards feature advanced shaping techniques, superior constructions and the best quality materials so that you can reach top speed in no time.

GLIDE GTW TOURING/ FITNESS/RACING

JAVELIN CARBON PERFORMANCE RACING

JAVELIN MALIKO DOWNWIND/ VERSATILE RACING

RACE LE FIXED

Many widths and lengths available. See the full line at NaishSUP.com.

2016SUP_StandUpPaddleMag_Race_Spread_18x12_FINAL.indd All Pages

THIS IS YOUR MOMENT...

PADDLE WITH THE BEST! Pacific Boardsports LLC

.

pbs@naishsails.com

.

(509) 493-0043

NaishSUP NaishStandUpPaddling Photos: E. Aeder, Riders: Casper Steinfath, Ethan Koopmans (Above), Kai Lenny (Opposite)

4/7/16 10:21 AM

Lexi Alston / April Zilg Lake Lugano, Switzerland 12’6 Tour Inflatable

Hobie will take you to places you’ve never been before.

Discover new waters with Hobie

sup_mag_v8N2.indd 2-3

@hobiestanduppaddleboards #hobiesup #haveahobieday

H O B I E .CO M

6/2/2016 3:33:46 PM

uer ne Sa s: Sha Photo

A Board for Every Lifestyle

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 2016 lineup.

er e Sau

(844) YOLO-BOARD | YOLOBOARD.COM

www.cova.com #foundmycova photo | pat myers

Photo : Taylor Rambo

Ryan Helm SUP Sur ng The oss Longboard in Santa Cru , Ca.

THE OSS OF THEM ALL. HI H PERFORMANCE SUP LON

OARD.

@ riv ierap addlesu rf / riv ierap addlesu rf riv ierap addlesu rf .com

18 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

D E ST I N AT I O N

:: APALACHICOLA RIVER, FLORIDA ::

The Apalachicola River is known as a designated State Paddling Trail by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

This waterway is part of a vast eco-system with magnificent scenery and a magical place to explore. Corey Cooper and his BOTE crew paddled the Apalachicola to raise awareness on clean waterways and to save Apalachicola’s oysters.

Photo: Sean Murphy

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

19

M A ST H E A D VOLUME 8Nº3

STAY DRIER KEEP WARMER PADDLE LONGER.

PUBLISHER Reid Inouye EDITOR Ben Marcus COPY EDITOR Mason Thorpe MANAGING EDITOR Lucy Lucille DESIGN First in Flight Creative ADVISORS NUTRITION COACH Scott Estrada YOGA INSTRUCTOR Jeramie Vaine TRAINERS Thomas “Maximus” Shahinian, EJ Johnson

STAFF WRITERS Stone Parker, Jim Freeman, Eric Haka STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Jim Freeman, Eric Haka, Paul Ensyde CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Sean Murphy, Bryan Berkowitz, Lyle Krannichfeld, Frankie Bees, 808PhotoMe 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

FOR 10% OFF USE CODE: STANDUPMAG

BLUESMITHS HYDROPHOBIC WATERWEAR B LU E S M I T H S .CO M

STANDUP PADDLE MAGAZINE LLC A REID INOUYE PUBLICATION P.O. Box 61525, Honolulu, HI 96839 contact info@standuppaddlemagazine.com Printed in South Korea Copyright 2016

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

2016SU

RACE LE PRO PERFORMANCE RACE

STROKE SMARTER, NOT HARDER

WAVE LE PRO PERFORMANCE WAVE

ERGO GRIP* = Filament-wound reinforcement in critical areas

KAHOLO PERFORMANCE RACE /TOURING/WAVE

PRECISION CUT CNC HD CORE* = Absolute precision shaping

NEW HEAVILY REINFORCED ANTI-TWIST VARIO SYSTEM = Easy length adjustment + perfect blade/handle alignment

MAKANI

Introducing the new 2016 Naish Paddle Collection. Engineered for maximum performance and durability, the 2016 line strikes the ideal balance between strength, power and flex. Using cutting-edge materials and shaping techniques, our paddles feature refined constructions and precision blade shaping. Our patented adjustable paddle shaft** delivers heightened convenience for precise, on-the-fly adjustments. Available in a variety of sizes, Naish paddles are designed to optimize your stroke for any activity.

Whether for touring, racing, wave riding or all-around use, Naish paddles offer unmatched performance, quality and value.

Pacific Boardsports LLC . (509) 493-0043 . pbs@naishsails.com Visit NaishSUP.com for more info.

NaishStandUpPaddling

RACE/TOURING/WAVE

NaishSUP

100% 3K PRE-PREG CARBON SHAFT* = Ultralight + durable

ABS RAILS = Built in blade edge protection

HELE ALL-AROUND/CRUISING

ALANA WOMEN’S ALL-AROUND

KEIKI KID’S ALL-AROUND *Reflects info for Kaholo paddle. Specs vary per model. **Patent No. US D739,804 S

2016SUP_StandUpPaddleMag_PaddleRange_single_9x12_V8N3.indd 1

4/5/16 10:07 AM

PUBL I SH E R ’S N O T E

FUTURE DAYS: HELPING OUT A WATERMAN Back in August of 2015, a waterman got hurt while helping a friend during a storm on Molokai.

He became critically injured in the rough seas and has been dealing with leg damage and infection while going to see specialists for over half a year now.

Karen Baxter, his wife, sheds more light on the incident, “Keith was thrown into the anchor well while attempting to head out of the cut (small channel) to return to Maui. The anchor pierced Keith’s leg three times, once in the calf, the ankle, and the foot. The anchor penetrated the bone, leaving anchor fragments inside. It wasn’t that Keith didn’t have the experience to be out there it was just a freak accident; after all, he takes people out to Jaws. After the mishap, they still had to motor back to Maui, and with the rescue team waiting for their arrival is well over an hour before he could still get treatment. An infection set in on his leg and for the last nine months has undergone numerous surgeries, antibiotics, and so many misfortunes that he may still end up losing his leg. As someone who loves the ocean, surfing, paddling, and standing in the wind on the deck in open waters to say this experience hasn’t been rough is an understatement. Keith

Photos courtesy: Baxter Family

22 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

had his surgery in June at Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. The surgeon said that the procedure went well and is optimistic they removed all the infection from the bone. He painstakingly made sure to remove all of the leftover bone fragments out that were infecting the area and were initially never dislodged in the first two surgeries. “It was important to take cultures during the surgery to find out exactly what bugs were in there,” the surgeon said. “The infectious disease component is a big part of battling the Osteomyelitis and to Keith’s recovery.”

As we’ve been in communication with Karen, she’s informed us that Keith now has a splint that looks like a soft cast on his foot - and is unable to bear any weight on that foot. He also has a PICC Line in for administering his antibiotics. They are hopeful and expecting his release from the hospital though they will need to stay in California for the time being for routine checkups at Cedars Sinai. The doctor who performed the surgery, Dr. Thordarson, is one of the top foot and ankle surgeons in the country, if not the world. The Baxter family believes there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The road to recovery is never easy, but at least there is a road now and for that they are thankful to have a reason for cautious optimism.

Their friends Kacky Ovrom and Michelle Willey have been updating a website with information and trying to raise funds to offset medical costs. Kacky and Michelle were two of the three people that Keith and his

daughter Ashley saved about 15 years ago, the third being Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder. When Kacky was recently in Maui for the OluKai Race they heard of Keith’s troubles and even though he didn’t want them to make a big deal of it, they knew they had to help. He and Ashley had rescued them, and now they want to give back and help save his life. Had Keith and Ashley not been there, who knows what would have happened.

If you aren’t fortunate enough to know Keith Baxter, he is the humble man behind his son Connor Baxter, who has won all the major SUP races around the world including the Rainbow Sandals Battle of the Paddle, Molokai2Oahu and many of the major events on the Standup World Tour.

For updates and contributions to help offset medical expenses go to: www.gofundme.com/keithbaxter

Reid Inouye Publisher Standup Paddle Magazine

24 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

26 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

C O NT E NTS V O L U M E

8 N º 3

: : 2016: : 22

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

28

HOW TO Scott Estrada: Power Fruits Thomas Maximus: Improving Your Paddle Stroke Jeramie Vaine: Inner Warrior EJ Johnson: Reverse Lunge at the FIT LAB

38

HOT SPOT San Diego Bay Harbor

F

E

46

A

T

U

R

E

S

PADDLE IT FORWARD BLUESMITHS 5th Annual Paddle Imua

60

OYSTERS AND BEER Paddling the Apalachicola, An Endangered River

82

QUIVERS AND WHEELS

O N T H I S PA G E : B LU E S M ITH S Paddle 2016 follows the renowned Maliko Run on Maui’s North Shore to “Paddle It Forward:” Helping Maui’s special needs keiki. Photo courtesy: 808PhotoMe

ON TH E COVE R: B OT E C r e w : A n y t h i n g b u t mainstream, while on the Apalachicola River in an effort to shed some light on environm e n t a l w a t e r i s s u e s e f f e c t i n g o y s t e r s a n d b e e r.

Photo: Sean Murphy STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

27

H OW TO H EA LT H w ith Scott Estrada

Wherever you are on your personal nutrition journey it’s worth noting there are some foods that contain specific elements that process the ability to repair and protect the integrity of our cells at high levels. If we get good and consistent at choosing these foods containing these elements we are not only giving our cells the tools to be as strong as they can but we connect with ourselves at a much deeper level of self-care and ultimately self-love which can be the highest form of medicine.

So the question is: “Where do we find the best fruits that pack the biggest punch of protection and nutrient density?”

Some common ones still hold true but source out the unusual fruits here and widen your Power Fruit options then feel the benefit they deliver. Fruits vary a lot in alkalinity and acidity based on the minerals they contain. Keep in mind even the most acidic fruits are not as acidic as meat, nuts or grains.

ALKALINE FRUITS Carob, olives, figs, papaya, grapefruit, lemon, lime, oranges, tangerines, citrus fruits, grapes (with seeds), cherries, pomegranate, prickly pear, wild apples, hot chilies, blackberry, raspberry, huckleberry, loganberry, passion fruit, cranberry, okra, cactus fruit, kiwi. **Interesting to note that some alkaline fruits contain a potent acidic compound that our system must neutralize to extract and absorb the alkaline minerals.

NEUTRAL FRUITS Melons (all types), apples, bell pepper, cucumber, tomato, mango, mangosteen, strawberries, blueberries, jackfruit, dragonfruit, apricots, peaches, nectarines, guava, persimmon (with seeds), lychees, pumpkin, breadfruit, starfruit, noni, loquats, pineapple SLIGHTLY ACIDIC FRUITS Banana, avocado, cherimoya, durian, plums, dates, mulberry, sapote, persimmons (w/o seeds), grapes (w/o seeds), prunes, dried fruits (except for figs)

28 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

With Paleo and lower carbohydrate intakes getting all the buzz in the last several years I see many people forgetting about the role of fruit in the bigger picture of health and longevity/ performance - especially the fruits that contain high levels of cell protector elements and bring a lot to your nutrition program.

These are Power Fruits; simplicity in nutritional wisdom.

Before we get into these powerhouse nuggets,

The best choice is to select fruits that are rich in minerals and medium to lower sugar. Organic, homegrown, wild and with seeds are solid choices. These sources are always higher in minerals & life force energy than commercially big agro-biz varieties available at supermarkets.

BEST LOW SUGAR FRUITS (LOWER GLYCEMIC) Avocado Bell Peppers (red, yellow and orange are best; green are not ripe) Cranberry Cucumber (very healing) Grapefruit Lemon (very healing) Lime Okra (very healing) Olives (not from a can) Pumpkin Sour green apples Squash Tomatillo Tomato Zucchini BEST SWEET FRUITS (HIGHER GLYCEMIC) Apples Apricots Berries of all types Cherimoya Cherries Currants Dates Figs Goji Berries Grapes with seeds Guavas Kumquat Lychee Mango Mangosteen Melons with seeds

let’s get up to speed with what’s going on in the fruit realm and such.

Unless you’re growing heirloom fruits or foraging in the wild, most of the fruit we get is limited to a fraction of the variety growing around the planet.

Avocado, a low sugar, rich-in-good-fat fruit has over 300 varieties, but we mainly get two to four options at stores or even farmers markets - at best. Most of the fruit we source now - even organic - is hybrid and been modified and grafted to grow well beyond

Nectarines Oranges with seeds Papaya Passion fruit Pears Persimmons Pineapple Plums Pomegranate Tangerines with seeds All wild sweet fruits and berries BEST OF THE BASICS Winter squash/Pumpkin – betacarotene, fiber, digestion, potassium, seeds Apple – fiber, quercetin, malic acid, Papaya – digestion, enzymes, fiber, vitamin c, beta-carotene, anti-inflammation Pineapple – bromelain, anti-inflammation, circulation Avocado – mono unsaturated fats, vitamin E, potassium, antioxidants, fiber, folic acid, iron Mango – Beta-carotene, skin, lungs, immunity, iron, potassium, magnesium, tryptophan Tomato – carotenoids, anti-cancer, skin, eyes, vitamin C, potassium Apricot – beta-carotene, digestion, fiber, skin, lungs, seeds Berries – anti-cancer, eyes, antiaging, blood, iron, circulation, skin, connective tissue Kiwi – antioxidants, lutein, vitamin C, E, potassium, fiber, enzymes Prunes – bowels, colon, antioxidants, skin, iron, potassium Black Currants – vitamin C, bioflavonoids, antioxidants, blood, fiber, skin, bowels Watermelon (with seeds) – lycopene, beta-carotene, eyes, lungs, anti-inflammation, immunity,

cleansing Citrus fruits – immunity, alkalinity, vitamin C, anti-viral, digestion, circulation, bioflavonoids Peppers – anti-cancer, skin, antibacterial, vitamin A and C, lungs Cherries – heart, blood, iron, immunity, anti-inflammation Cucumber – skin, cleansing, kidneys, connective tissue, fiber Grapes (with seeds) – resveratrol, heart, protection, blood, fiber, anticancer, immunity Pomegranate – heart, anti-cancer, blood, immunity, brain health Cranberry – bladder, kidney, blood, iron, anti-bacterial, immunity Olives – healthy fatty acids, amino acids, alkaline, brain/nervous system, skin, sodium, calcium POWER FRUITS These are usually more nutrient dense, mineral rich, exotic, wild-grown, promote overall cellular protection.

Noni (morinda citrifolia) – Polynesian power fruit, selenium, skin, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, immunity, polysaccharides. Source Noni juice, or Morinda powder in health food stores or online.

Mangosteen – Asian Anti-Oxidant Queen, 40 antioxidant xanthone alkaloids, hydrogen-rich, anti-aging, anti-cancer, antiviral, anti-microbial, joint health, mental focus, immunity.

Rich in red/blue plant pigments for top level cell protection and repair.

Source quality mangosteen juice or Blue Mango powder in health stores for smoothies/drinks. The bitter outer rind contains ALL the nutrition quality - not the inner white part of the fruit that is delicious and sweet.

POWER FRUITS :: Take Care of Your Cells and They’ll Take Care of You natural growing cycles of the year and de-seeded for convenience and to boost sales. All fruit by original design is supposed to contain seeds, for this is the energy that will create new life. When man removes seeds, we weaken the fruit by 50% or more. Its life force energy is vastly diminished. Simply: eat weak fruit, yield weak results. But eat fruit with its life-giving seeds, which energize our cells. Look at any fruit without seeds we were raised on - like the common banana - in which its heirloom older varieties that

originate in Latin and Central America contain seeds and a strong, dense starch that give you much more than what we are used to. For these types of bananas will not be overcome by bacteria so easily and turn brown so quickly since their constitution is so strong with seeds. Same is true for grapes, some citrus fruits, and watermelons, whose seeds when eaten support our kidneys in all they do.

When eating fruit the best strategy is to go mono style; that is, eating them solo not combined

with other foods like proteins, dairy, wheat or even nuts. Most fruits will digest through the stomach quickly in 30 about minutes, bananas taking longer at about 45 minutes. When we toss others foods into the mix fruits can begin to ferment. This causes bloating/gas, indigestion, acid reflux, with the slower digestion as the fruit doesn’t get to do what’s it meant to do: that is, flush the system, deliver hydrating nutrients and strong antioxidant and carotenoid cell protectors.

Acai – ancient Amazonian super fruit, essential fatty acids 3, 6 & 9, skin protection, blue pigment antioxidants, cell regeneration support, plant sterols, 19 different amino acids, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, anticancer. Source fresh frozen packs from the freezer section in health stores (sambazon), look for lower sugar, less processed, organic sources. Freeze dried powder is a good option for smoothies/drinks also.

Goji Berries – Complete protein superfood berry, adaptogen, glandular support, stamina, strength, sexual energy, immunity, liver, eyesight, blood, anti-aging, iron, zinc, copper, vitamin E, calcium, selenium, longevity, hydrating. Source dried Goji berries or Goji berry powder at health stores and online. dragonherbs.com sells, in my opinion, the world’s best quality Goji Berries period: still moist, not overly dried and grown in optimal conditions in Asia’s high country. Add these to your hot teas as a ritual for longevity then eat the plump berries at the bottom of your cup.

Camu Camu berry – South American Vitamin C powerhouse, highest Vitamin C of any plant food, immunity, eyes, skin, anti-viral, collagen/ connective tissue builder, lung health, brain, liver, heart health. Source dried powdered versions in health stores or online.

Best wild fruit supplement for smoothies/drinks for advanced cell protection HealthForce Nutritionals Anti-Oxidant Extreme healthforce.com/cleansing-detoxification/antioxidant-extreme TAKE AWAY The best fruits contain seeds and rich color pigments for superior protection. They are quick, clean sources of good, carbohydrate-burning energy that can fuel our active lifestyle and cleanse our bodies of waste and residue. However be aware of higher sugar content varieties if you are sensitive or are dealing with a health crisis as these may not be the best choices. Small amounts go a long way to support a healthy life if done with consistency. Always source the most non-GMO, non-hybrid, wild or homegrown varieties you can for the most nutrition and life force energy. Be well and travel light.

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

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

29

HO W TO TRAINING with Thomas “Maximus” Shahinian

APEX OF THE CATCH :: Improve Your Paddle Stroke Technique We’ve discussed in previous editions of Training Tips how to improve your paddle stroke technique and the importance of the catch phase, which is likely the most important segment of the four phases: catch, power, exit & recovery. We have also discussed in detail the importance of “reaching” and “loading/anchoring” the paddle blade. In this installment we will discuss another important detail of the catch phase of the paddle stroke… the Apex of the Catch!

1

3

Paddlers who extend to their maximum reach (apex) during their recovery to catch phase above the waterline, hoping to improve their distance per stroke may actually impose a negative effect by delaying their entry into the water, and use more energy than necessary to enter the water at the same point they’d achieve moving the blade through the air a shorter distance on the recovery phase of the stroke!

Imagine a vertical plane at the furthest point (apex) of your reach extending from the top of your board to below the surface of the water with the goal of not breaking that imaginary plane until your paddle blade is totally submerged.

2

4

The shortest distance between two points is a straight line! If the paddler’s extension is at their maximum reach above the water, they’re forced to shorten the distance between their stance and the blade to submerge and load the blade at the catch… which is the only point in time when the paddler’s reach will have an effect on distance per stroke!

Practice initiating the catch segment of the paddle stroke by stabbing your blade straight down & forward through the water, slipping the blade in from the side or a hybrid of the two-entry techniques and figure out which works best for you and evaluate your progress with a friend video recording each side.

TIP: Relax and open your grip on the bottom hand to extend your reach while loading and then close grip on the pull.

NOTE: This is an abbreviated overview of the “Paddle Stroke” technique and significantly expanded upon within individual and group paddle clinics with Thomas Maximus.

Riviera team rider Thomas Maximus has more than 18 years of experience racing outrigger canoes. He has competed in more than 150 SUP races since 2008, resulting in over 80 first-place wins and multiple course records.

30 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

Photo: Taylor Rambo

Ryan Helm Paddling his RP-14’x23” Raceboard with 7.5” BUMP Paddle.

CRAFTED WITH QUALITY & PERFORMANCE IN MIND. RP-SERIES RACEBOARD Developed for speed, efficiency and control, the RP-Series are crafted with quality and performance in mind. The Taylor Rambo designed RP-Raceboard, RP-Downwinder and RP-Prone are built for speed and all pack a punch with durable ultra light construction and performance shapes. @rivierapaddlesurf

/rivierapaddlesurf

rivierapaddlesurf.com

H OW TO YOG A w i t h Je ramie Vain e

WARRIOR 2::

Connecting with our Inner Warrior Inside all of us there is a warrior, one that fights to keep us balanced, healthy and following our passion. When we are able to connect with this inner power, we open up the possibilities to achieve anything. Standup Paddleboarding is an outlet that utilizes this inner strength, whether we are racing or practicing SUP Yoga. The sequence below is aimed to help build strength and stamina as well as open up the chest and shoulders.

It is a dynamic pose that is for all ability levels of yoga practitioners.

1

3

2

From mountain pose, stand down, let the hands fall down by the side of the body, shoulders soften and lengthen through the crown of the head. The feet ground into the earth through the four corners of the feet.

On the next exhale, shift the weight into the left foot and take a big step forward three to four feet with the right leg. Slide the back foot and front foot to the midline (center) of the body as if standing on a balance beam. Spin the back foot 45 degrees towards the left, ground down through the pinky side of the foot creating a stable base. The front heel will align with the center of the arch of the back foot. Begin to bend the front knee, keeping the toes in front of the knee; the goal is to keep the knee at a 90 degree bend but no more. If the toes are out of sight slide the front foot forward until they come into sight. The hands will rest on the knee of the right leg or can hang by the side of the body or ground for more stability.

Once the feet have created a stable platform to work from, engage the core by bringing the bellybutton in towards the spine and rise up through the crown of the head. Leave the lower body just how it is with a bend in the front leg and actively rooting down through the back and front foot and the thighs will rotate towards each other. Extend the right arm out over the right knee and the left arm behind. Create space in the chest and shoulders by moving the shoulder blades down the body.

Connect with your breath, keeping the exhale as long as the inhale and hold this pose for 5 to 10 breaths.

Step back into mountain pose and repeat on the other side. This pose is a great warm up as it involves the entire body while opening the breathing system and paddle muscles. It can be added to downward facing dog and upward facing dog as well.

Jeramie Vaine is a BOGA team racer 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.

32 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

® 11’ HydroCruiser

Enter to win a HydroCruiser at: www.SUPYES.com

$789

Shaboomee® means pushing the edge of your comfort zone: physically, spiritually, intellectually and emotionally.

It’s that moment when you grow and remain forever changed! .

It is the culmination of these moments that empower, inspire and motivate us to push the boundaries of SUP design with innovation that will revolutionize your adventure!

15-2 0-3 2

97

#YESTOADVENTURE!

®

24

TOP OF THE LINE QUALITY DIRECT TO CONSUMER PRICES BUILT FOR RUGGED ADVENTURE

H OW TO T R A I N I N G with EJ Johnson

R E V E R S E L U N G E :: EJ Johnson is a true SUPioneer. From living on a sailboat to hand-shaping beautiful, one-of-a-kind paddles, he truly embraces the ocean fitness lifestyle. Since 2005, EJ helped shape the future of the West Coast race scene, and today assists with research and development for YOLO boards and paddles. The exercise that EJ is performing is a Reverse Lunge utilizing the TRX band. EJ had a double knee replacement so we are utilizing the TRX to properly engage his core and execute the asymmetrical move. The workout reflects the initial pull from the hips. The power-generating portion of the pull. Best example is outrigger canoeing with the split stance, or in the case of sup the slight off stance people do. Another point, is understanding that paddling is planting the blade and bringing the body to the paddle, opposed to thinking of bringing the paddle to you. In simpler terms, the exercise is similar to paddling with emphasis of using the core.

1

2

3

4

1. EJ is holding the TRX band in an athletic position. Feet shoulder width apart, and core tight. (He should be leaning forward slightly from the hips)

2. He will then focus on balancing on his right leg and kick his left leg back with control out into a lunge position.

3. In the reverse lunge position, knee is dropped as low as possible, shins nice and vertical, with core tight and slightly hinged, EJ is going to know focus on driving his hips forward back into his

starting position.

4. Back to start.

Goal is to work on balance, posture, and engaging hips in the move to generate power and strength. Although lunging requires the use of all our leg muscles we want to really emphasize glute (aka booty) engagement. When driving the hips forward contract the glutes more so than stepping into the move from 3-4.

The Fit Lab is San Diego’s premier fitness facility. We specialize in weight loss and performance utilizing the gold standard of fitness testing equipment to develop program plans for both nutrition and exercise. “Your goal. Our Method. A true lifestyle change.” — The Fit Lab

34 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº2 2O16

If anyone has any questions or would like to contact me they can: sean@thefitlabsd.com (858)800-2348 thefitlabsd.com

The paddleboarding The paddleboarding adventure of a lifetime...

Lake Powell

1

Photo: Trevor Simington

Recommended

Lake Powell Paddleboards 836 Vista Ave, Page AZ 86040

(928) 645-4017 LakePowellPaddleboards.com

Rentals Lessons Tours Gear

2

well Paddleboa e Po rds Lak

PAGE, AZ

3 WHAT NOT TO DO 1. Keep torso tight and controlled, not hyperextended or leaning back.

2. Get into a comfortable lunge position to keep hips squared. Overextending the back leg will break core engagement.

3. Use the band to keep core tight. Do not lean back and use the TRX band as a crutch. Keep tension on the TRX band with proper torso position.

I would get EJ properly warmed up and do three sets of 10 reverse lunges each leg with 30-60 seconds of rest in between. `

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

35

Photo: Michael Tavares and Zack Hughes

w a t e r m e n

c o m i n g

c a m p

2 0 1 6

HOT SPOT SAN DIEGO

BY MASON THORPE PHOTOS: PAUL ENSYDE

BAY OF

38 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

SAN DIEGO,

SHELTER ISLAND

The city of San Diego has some of the best waterways in the world.

From outside the coastline of La Jolla down to Pacific Beach and Sunset Cliffs, its majestic beauty and setting makes way for some STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

39

HOT SPOT SAN DIEGO

40 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

“...the bay of San Diego has some great scenic paddles especially during the late spring to fall months. But with all the beach access along the way, the bay of San Diego has some great flat-water areas throughout the year protected from the ocean swells, currents and various lurking, unspecified swimming creatures.

You can basically drive up to any park or mini beach access and be on your way in minutes, launching on soft sand and quiet residential areas while taking in the scenery of the city’s businesses, planes flying in to Lindbergh Field, watch multi-million dollar yachts coming in or leaving the harbor as well as paddle along the many docks and massive ships in port.

Especially if you’re trying to avoid the crowds, the packed beach areas next to the many resorts, bars, restaurants and clubs, the Shelter Island side of San Diego’s bay provides this type of atmosphere where you can unload and park (usually at minimal to no charge), strap on your PFD, and get out in less than five-minutes time.

flat-water areas throughout the year SHELTER ISLAND REGION Home of the 1992 Stars and Stripes USA-11, raced by legendary Dennis Conner in his America’s Cup campaign, Shelter Island today is home to private boats and commercial fishing craft as well as fancy yachts. The water temperature stays between 68 – 72 degrees in summer and fall, and the air is usually 70-85 degrees. In winter and early spring, the water temperature stays between 58 - 65 degrees, while the air is a cooler 58 – 68 degrees. The waters in this area are normally calm except when the wind blows during the mid afternoons to early evenings or a big super yacht comes through.

But overall, this area is prime for its serenity, mellow, quiet atmosphere and a good place to de-stress after work with many side street-parking areas off the main roadways or even on the Rosecrans Street side of the bay.

Of interest, if you can find Humphreys Concerts By The Bay, one of the best known outdoor concert venues. You can paddle from nearby and slide into listen to some really cool concerts by nationally known musical artists such as Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, Lyle Lovett or even get “More Than a Feeling” from ‘80’s band Boston.

And if you’re looking for an eatery that serves up a burger and beer, the local hangouts are abundant in this area. Ask the locals or drive through the wharf parking lots and you’ll feel the vibe right off the piers.

protected from the ocean swells...”

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

41

HOT SPOT SAN DIEGO

“...overall, this area is prime for it’s serenity, mellow, quiet atmosphere and a good place to de-stress...”

42 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

B

S

BAY OF W

H

E

R

E

A

N

SAN DIEGO, D

H

O

W

T

O

S

SHELTER ISLAND HOW TO GET THERE HEADING SOUTH FROM LOS ANGELES

Take the Interstate 5 to the 209 South (Rosecrans Street) till you hit Shelter Island Drive. From the I-5 off-ramp to Shelter Island Drive it usually takes about 10-15 minutes. There are usually car parks along the way to Humphreys Concerts area and an abundance of parking in the mornings or mid-afternoons on the weekdays.

HOW TO GET THERE FROM SAN DIEGO AIRPORT Get onto North Harbor Drive North and take a left at Scott Street and another left on Shelter Island Drive. This is a quick 10-minute drive with no traffic.

NEARBY EATERIES

This place is good because it’s close and right on the pier with lots of daytime parking:

MITCH’S SEAFOOD

1403 Scott Street, San Diego 92106 (619) 222-8787 Mitchsseafood.com

THINGS TO DO

Petco Park and San Diego Padres games from late spring through early fall - especially if the Padres make the playoffs. This stadium is one of the cleanest and most enjoyable stadiums to attend with easy $10 parking and lots of empty seats - unless they are having a contender season.

BOARD RENTALS AND SALES:

Our recommendation is to talk with Bob Long and his staff because Bob is a lifelong San Diego legend at:

WEST COAST PADDLE SPORTS 4360 Morena Blvd #130 San Diego, CA 92117 858-272-3278 Westcoastpaddlesports.com info@westcoastpaddlesports.com

magazine layout.indd All Pages

6/9/2016 3:10:04 PM

46 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

A

5TH ANNUAL

PADDLE IT FORWARD F

EE

BLUESMITHS PADDLE IMUA 2016

LUCILLE

R L G O O O D ST

Y

BY LUCY

S MITH E U L B S

Photo: Lyle Krannichfeld

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

47

48 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

IN 1976, an inspiring Maui tradition began known as Camp Imua: a weeklong recreation camp held each year in June at Camp Maluhia on the West Maui Mountains, Camp Imua provides school-age children with “special abilities� opportunities that would otherwise not be available to them. It allows them to experience traditional camp activities like horseback riding,

Photo: Bryan Berkowitz

Photo: Frankie Bees

50 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

photos: Bryan Berkowitz

Each May ocean athletes from near and far unite with one common goal in mind: to paddle for Maui’s children with special needs.

helicopter rides, nightly campfires, a talent show and more! Not only does the program benefit campers, but also it provides their caretakers some muchneeded respite. This year, sixty children will attend camp with an additional 200 community volunteers, of which many are high school students whom give up a week of their summer vacation to come along with their campers and ensure a week of fun and memories. Not to mention the many local businesses who offer their support and services which range from restaurants to zip-lining to stand-up paddle boarding all of which contribute to making up the memorable experience of Camp Imua.

Photo: Frankie Bees

photo: Bryan Berkowitz

BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua was created to raise critical funds for Imua Family Services’ Camp Imua Program. Without these critical funds, camp would face elimination. BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua’s mission is simply this: It is a multiple discipline paddle race that celebrates the lives of special needs children by embracing our connection to the ocean.

Each May ocean athletes from near and far unite with one common goal in mind: to paddle for Maui’s children with special needs. The only race of its kind in the state of Hawaii, offering SUP, OC, surfski and prone paddle boarding on a single day, the course follows the famed Maliko Run, a 10 mile downwind run off Maui’s North Shore. BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua features a post-race ‘Ohana Festival at Hawaiian Canoe Club complete with kids’ activities,

52 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

prize draw, relay race, food, beverages, and entertainment. Camp Imua campers welcome race finishers with fresh flower lei, a traditional Hawaiian greeting.

Bluesmiths Paddle Imua is made possible with the kokua of Title Sponsor BLUESMITHS Crafted Waterwear along with the help of many other businesses; race entry fees from this event directly benefit Imua Family Services’ Camp Imua Program as well. This year BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua raised a record breaking 50K for Camp Imua. Over the past five years, Bluesmith’s Paddle Imua has raised a combined $100,000+ for Camp Imua. A competitive elite race for a worthy cause, close to 200 racers shrugged off the ill winds and rain and made it to Maliko Gulch this past May.

photos: Bryan Berkowitz

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

53

BLUESMITHS John Smalley crossing the finishing line. photos: Bryan Berkowitz

54 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

55

Photo: Frankie Bees

BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua was created to raise critical funds for Imua Family Services’ Camp Imua Program.

Photo: Shawn Boeckman

Photo: Frankie Bees

Photo: Frankie Bees

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

57

Photos: Frankie Bees

58 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

Photos: Lyle Krannichfeld

Camp Imua campers welcome race finishers with fresh flower lei, a traditional Hawaiian greeting.

After the pule - a traditional Hawaiian blessing - and a poignant safety briefing, racers paddled off into less than ideal conditions: rain, and a poor wind that turned a traditional downwinder into an uphill tactical paddle battle. It wasn’t scenic. It wasn’t easy. It was truly a labor of love. Tough love.

Many paddle for competition, for exercise, for thrills, but there is more to this race than that. “Paddle Imua is a special race because you’re not just racing for yourself, you’re racing for the incredible program Camp Imua,” said Fiona Wylde, “that provides outdoors camps for children and their families with special needs. It truly is a community event, and those are some of the best events!”

John Smalley, the founder of BLUESMITHS Crafted Waterwear, has paddled in all five races: “It was a phenomenal race, very light winds and extremely testing.

There was a bit of swell there, so it was about getting the right glides which were tricky. It was my first race on an unlimited board, and that took a bit of adjustment. I recommend people making the trip to Maui for this event next year. So many people paddled in conditions which were exceptionally difficult, but they were doing it for the kids, and the whole community got together. It has to be one of the best races in the world.”

Looking forward, BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua’s commitment to Camp Imua has never been stronger.

BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua is looking forward to adding categories like Hydrofoil and Sailing in 2017.

Stay tuned! IMUA! TO LEARN MORE: imuafamilyservices.org or paddleimua.com STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

59

60 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

B Y C O R EY C O O P ER

•

P H OTOS S EAN MURP H Y

NEED WATER THAT’S CLEAR A V O YA G E O F D I S C O V E R Y D O W N T H E A P A L A C H I C O L A

YSTERS AND BEER, one of my favorite combos. I’ll take a dozen raw please, chased with a few cold beers.

Up until just recently the only connection I associated between beer and oysters was that they made a great pairing at my local seafood bar. That was it. I guess you could say that I was blissfully ignorant and as long as they both tasted good and were both available, which has been the case most of my life, it was all-good. As it turns out, my ignorance was not as blissful as I thought it was when I learned that the local delicacy I had become accustomed to was practically gone.

The connection I discovered between oysters and beer is one of the million intertwined veins that course through our planet’s ecosystems. I choose to focus on it because they are both near and dear to me and it was astonishing to understand how two things so singularly disconnected could be in an ongoing battle over the same resource: fresh water.

62 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

BOTE photographer Sean Murphy spent the day with Apalachicola Oystermen who’s families have been a part of the business for multiple generations.

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

63

BOTE visits their partners, SweetWater, in Atlanta to discuss their efforts and throw back some brews.

I want to preface this piece by stating that I am not the typical “save the world” person. It hasn’t been my life mission. I’m not more righteous than the next person and I think that I have made a lot of poor decisions regarding the environment. It is not my most admirable attribute, trust me. Bottom line is: I recognize my ignorance and acknowledge that I still have a lot of learning to do.

The topics of this story, the Chattahoochee River (in Georgia) and the Apalachicola River (in Florida) are both the beginning and the end of their respective businesses and local economies.

It snakes from North Georgia to the Florida Gulf Coast, and as I’ve learned, affects everything, and everyone, along the way.

LET’S START WITH THE BEER. I’ve spent the majority of my adult life living in the Southeast. Luckily for my fellow “southerners” and I there has been an explosion of great craft

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

65

Way down yonder on the Chattahoochee, BOTE and SweetWater spend the day paddling the native waters of Atlanta

66 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

and microbreweries in the region. My favorite over the past 15 years has been an Atlanta-based company called SweetWater Brewing. Their delicious IPA sucked me in before I even knew what the hell an IPA was. It’s delicious.

“Don’t Float the Mainstream,” that’s SweetWater’s slogan. Over the years I’ve found that it’s more than a slogan, it’s their mission and it holds true for both their beers and for the company’s direction. Every year they release a seasonal brew that benefits the Waterkeeper Alliance, a worldwide organization solely focused on protecting everyone’s rights to clean water. To me this partnership just made sense. To make beer you need water, good clean water, so they might as well support an organization that’s there to help keep the water clean!

SweetWater, and much of Atlanta, rely heavily on the Chattahoochee River as a water resource.

Flowing from a cold-water mountain stream in the Blue Ridge Province, the Chattahoochee winds its way 430 miles to the Florida border where its confluence with the Flint River forms the Apalachicola River. This river ‘s delta ultimately pumps water directly into the Apalachicola Bay. Throughout its course, water is diverted and consumed along the way for everything from beer to agriculture.

To me, SweetWater’s partnership with the Waterkeeper Alliance was a perfect example of

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

67

“Flowing from a cold-water mountain stream in the Blue Ridge Province, the Chattahoochee winds its way 430 miles to the Florida border where its confluence with the Flint River forms the Apalachicola River.�

BOTE owner and CEO, Corey Cooper, travels down the Apalachicola River to raise awareness for clean water.

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

69

how a brand could expose their consumers to a much larger issue and get them to take action while also achieving their mission of creating delicious beer. The partnership resonated so well with me that shortly after I founded BOTE, I reached out to the crew at SweetWater and asked how we could help.

In 2013, we began an annual campaign of making ‘Special Edition’ SweetWater Waterkeeper Alliance boards with 10% of the sales going to benefit the Waterkeeper Alliance. In the first year we raised over $18,000 from board sales. It was a great start. Both teams got together in the Atlanta Brewery for a photo-shoot for the campaign.

Sean Murphy, BOTE’s photographer, flew in from LA for the project to capture the magic. At the end of the shoot he asked me, “So who is this all benefiting?” And I proceeded to give him the story. His reply was, as is typical for Sean, “Sounds like some cool shit!”

Less than a year later, Sean found himself in Apalachicola, home of the world-

70 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

renowned “Apalachicola Oyster.” He was riding along with some oyster fisherman documenting them for a commissioned project. I get a call from him the next day: “Man, you remember all that shit you talked about in Atlanta at the brewery about water protection? Dude, I just spent a day with the most real-deal, hard-core people you’ve ever seen who have been greatly affected by this water system. Let me come to your office tomorrow and give you the scoop.”

TO THE OYSTERS. Sean, in his usual excited manner, described to us everything that he saw on his trip to Apalachicola—the good and the bad.

Apalachicola is a relic town in the northwest Panhandle of Florida. Unlike the rest of the state, Apalachicola is not a heavy tourist destination. As you drive through the small town you can see that most of the buildings have been preserved from modernization and precarious eyes greet strangers’ faces.

The waters of Apalachicola Bay were, at

The BOTE team traveled to the Florida-Georgia line to travel down the Apalachicola River to explore the environment that is so harshly affecting the Apalachicola oyster economy.

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

71

one point, chock-full of multi-generational oystermen, but are now left with a handful of workers who refuse to give up their family’s business and lifestyle that they’ve worked so hard for.

What Sean came to find out from spending the day with some of the only oystermen left was that, sadly, the reason for lack of oystermen is not due to willing and able people, but due to the lack of oysters.

Unknown to most, and until recently myself included, there is a Tri-State Water War, between Georgia, Alabama, and Florida that has been going on for years. As of right now, Georgia has sole ownership of the water that flows down the Chattahoochee River, regulating every stop the river makes along the way. Once the Chattahoochee reaches the dam that crosses into the Apalachicola River, the ever-flowing clean water has dwindled to a fraction of the volume of the good ol’ days. Due to this lack of water from the Apalachicola river, the oyster ecosystem in Apalachicola Bay is not getting enough fresh water to supply a healthy habitat for them to thrive.

I know what you’re thinking, “its just oysters,” but it is so much more than that. Almost all of Apalachicola’s economy is based on the harvesting of these small saltwater creatures.

You can see it on the hands and in the eyes of the oystermen that they have dedicated their lives to these animals and have depended on them to be able to raise their families and keep their local economy growing. In the past ten years alone

“I just couldn’t wrap my mind around how much of an impact this river could have upon so many communities.”

72 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

Corey Cooper has his limited edition SweetWater Flood decked out for the journey

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

73

74 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

“So, we packed up our gear, called up some friends and headed two hours east to the Florida/Georgia border to paddle it.” the number of oystermen out on the water on a given day has plummeted from 400 to less than 80. Holy shit.

Sean showed me some of his photos of the oyster fishing, each one both beautiful and sad. He had a 10-minute story about every still he captured. I just couldn’t wrap my mind around how much of an impact this river could have upon so many communities. In my mind, the only way to understand it was to experience it. So, we packed up our gear, called up some friends and headed two hours east to the Florida/Georgia border to paddle it.

DOWN THE RIVER. A hundred and seven miles. That’s the nonlinear distance of this winding river from the dam at the Georgia border to the Apalachicola bay. We decided to make the paddle from top to bottom. Beginning at the dam, we calculated it would take us three days and two nights. Obviously, going down river, we had the six mph current in our favor to expedite the process. But still, we

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

75

figured the journey to be a challenge and wondered what crazy shit we would experience.

The dam was an eye opener. The riverbanks were flooded from multiple days of torrential downpours, yet they only had two locks open to feed the pipe downriver. The gravel banks of the discharge area were covered with people fishing for their dinner. Catfish, gar, and mullet seemed to be the flavor of the day. Kind of made me wonder how far upstream these fish would be if the dam weren’t in their way?

Somehow Sean convinced us to paddle out into the discharge area.

Not a good idea. We were flagged down by a state employee and warned, “everybody dies.” Meaning, those who fall in, don’t come back out. I took the opportunity to pick his brain on the dam; it’s impact, and what it meant to the area. In his defense, most of it was positive, mostly because it’s what feeds him. But, like most people in the area, he constantly referenced the “good ole’ days” and pointed to a derelict old bridge that went out of commission some 30 years ago due to progress, somewhat blaming the dam.

Speaking of progress, we had 107 miles to hammer we needed to

76 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

move on.

In total defense of the stereotype, what we saw for the next three days was out of the movie Deliverance. We didn’t see any civilization; most of the area is the Apalachicola State Forest. But we did see hundreds of river houses, which are basically tiny, powerless, floating barges with a shed built on top. The houses and people that occupy them are TOTALLY dependent on this river. Fresh water, power, food, you name it.

We too became dependent. We camped on the banks, made fires from its brush, and drank from the water: filtered, of course. Prayers for clear weather and swift currents were made every hour. Faster than any of us expected, we became tethered to this river.

On the third day, we ended the paddle in Apalachicola, home of the aforementioned famous oysters. We had pre-planned that we were going to end at ‘Bosses Oyster House,’ to scarf down some oysters. It was our ‘finish line’ treat. I didn’t realize how much a three-day paddle in this environment could change the others and me. Sitting on the porch overlooking the bay and oyster fisherman within it, there was

The BOTE team hunkers down to camp out for the night on the banks of the Apalachicola River.

78 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

“It is our hope that every year, we can shed some light on environmental water issues that most aren’t aware of.”

The best way to wake up for day two down the Apalachicola River- Machete cooked sausages and beer.

80 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

“...we have now made it our goal to be anything but mainstream, and we hope that you join us in our effort to help keep our waterways clean.” a silence between us. Partly because we were exhausted, but, I think more so because we were kind of sad to be leaving. When you become dependent on something, be it a person, pet, job, river, it can become quite difficult to remove yourself from that situation.

I feel this is what has resonated with me. For the oyster fisherman, it’s their culture and life. They can’t just remove themselves or find another ‘job.’ My family hasn’t been doing the same thing for five years, much less several generations.

Ultimately, this trip helped us understand that resources that seem so abundant, like Apalachicola oysters or fresh water, are often teetering on the edge of collapse for completely preventable reasons. It is our hope that every year, we can shed some light on environmental water issues that most aren’t aware of. Many people take advantage of water and the environment that surrounds it, but here at BOTE, we have now made it our goal to be anything but mainstream, and we hope that you will join us in our effort to help keep our waterways clean.

To learn more about this cause and how you can help, please visit: boteboard.com/abm-apalach

To learn more about some of the tastiest brews, please visit: sweetwaterbrew.com

A special thanks to our partners SweetWater and the Waterkeeper Alliance for helping us work to keep our water clean!

A big shout out to Tentsile for providing us with rad tents to camp with! To learn more about their product, please visit: tentsile.com

You can learn more about the Waterkeeper Alliance at: waterkeeper.org STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

81

QUIVERS & WHEELS RIC HARD AGUIRRE

By Stone Parker Photos: Paul Ensyde

82 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nยบ3 2O16

MAYOR OF THE CLIFFS Richard Aguirre SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Richard Aguirre. Surfer. Stand-up Paddler. Self-made man.

House flipper. Governor of Sunset Cliffs. Contender for the 2010 California governorship on a platform of expanding solar energy, desalination and a flat $400 property tax.

VW BUS AFICIONADO. Go cruise Sunset Cliffs and Aguirre will be glad to lay out his plan for an energy-independent California funded by the sales of hemp and irrigated by desalinated ocean water. He’ll tell you about a state-wide flat property tax of $400 - and how Bernie Sanders ‘borrowed’ the concept. He’ll talk about The California Dollar and a lot of economic theories - and conspiracy theories - that sound good, might make sense.

How to find him? Look for Baby Blue, 1967 Volkswagen Bus with a couple of self-made SUPs on the rack on top and Booger the dog standing guard - her owner either checking the surf or surfing.

Aguirre has been cruising a VW bus his whole life. The current one is a ‘67 he bought for $475 in 2001, at San Diego’s Dog’s Beach in Ocean Beach, by the jetty. It belonged to a friend, and it was gonna get towed, so Aguirre took it off his hands for a song, and fixed it up to make it dance. “I tried to take it back to the totally stock camping package,” Aguirre said.

“A fold down bed, and an old closet I used for a template all bought online. I customized new cabinets and put it all in there.

Hardwood flooring, and all the custom cabinet style from a 1965 - 1967 Sun Dialer camper. I did all the bodywork and

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

83

QUIVERS & WHEELS RIC HARD AGUIRRE

“Outside, Baby Blue is exquisite.

Inside, the bus is a museum...” engine work myself. Paint job and everything. I love this Bus. I love seeing it with such an old school positive vibe, and with the two new school stand up paddle boards on top bringing together the best of the old world with the best of the new. It has an awesome feeling.”

Outside, Baby Blue is exquisite. Inside, the bus is a museum, when people come to see him: “A chess board, Voltaire’s Candide (just finished it,) the book 301 Spanish Verbs, a 1970 Radio Shack weather report radio, my YOLO paddle, a 12 volt cooler, and my new surf bar called the ‘California Big Bar which is a 16 ounce bar of wax in a heavy-duty case to keep it in perfect condition. Coming to market this summer. It is awesome.”

The Governor also has a 1980’s issue of Surfer Magazine with Dane

84 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

Kealoha on the cover: “I love that issue. We read that issue for years when we were kids. It has both the Magic Hawaii and the California Coast articles, which are timeless - and the legend on the cover. It was one of five or six that were in there at the time. I collect old surf mags and put different ones in here to read.”

Baby Blue currently has 200,000 miles on the clock. He has taken it as far north as Santa Cruz and Berkeley - where he went to school - but only as far south as San Diego where he lives. He has never taken her to Mexico. Probably a good idea, as some banditos would probably kipe it.

Find Aguirre around Sunset Cliffs and talk politics and then check out his quiver. Two hand-made SUP: An 8’ 3” x 30” 2 3/4”tri in and a 9’ 0” x 30.5”.

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

85

QUIVERS & WHEELS RIC HARD AGUIRRE

“Baby Blue is like a Rock Star. She gets 20 to 50 pictures taken of her every day by the people that walk by and feel her awesome vibe and energy.”

Aguirre has been surfing since 1979. He started stand-up paddling in 2009 and is glad he did: “Surfing the stand-up paddleboard has saved my life,” Aguirre said.

“I was becoming a bitter old surfer like you see so much out there. So set in my ways and attitude and not being open-minded anymore like the spirit of the bus and my life. I was giving people on SUPs crap for being dangerous when one day I realized I should just open my mind, give it a try and then pass judgment on it. Thank Mother Ocean that I did. It was so rewarding and challenging. It made me start loving surfing, even more; it was like it makes you a kid again. I can’t imagine my life without my SUPs. Surfing stand-up paddle RULES!!!”

A typical day for the Governor goes like this: “My girl usually comes over and wakes me up just after sunrise. We load my dog Booger up in Baby Blue with the boards always left on her from the day before. We roll down about six blocks to our favorite local spot on Sunset Cliffs where our whole crew kicks it, to check the surf.

If the tide is right we will paddle out right away and get an early session in - it likes the lower tide - but if the tide is too high, we will head either to get a breakfast bagel or Acai Bowl, and either wait for the tide or head over to Mission Beach to surf with some buddies.

86 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

While I surf, Booger will stay inside Baby Blue and keep an eye on her. After surf, I’ll hang out with buddies and burn some down, share some stories and rally out to get some lunch before cruising Baby Blue back to the Cliffs to get ready for the glass off session that goes off around two hours before sunset.

We post up with Baby Blue on the cliff after the surf, and the whole Garbage Beach Crew shows up to watch the sunset together.

Baby Blue is like a Rock Star. She gets 20 to 50 pictures taken of her every day by the people that walk by and feel her awesome vibe and energy. After sunset a small part of the crew will often come back to my house for a bonfire - I converted my back yard to a beach and got rid of all the grass and replaced it with sand and made it a beach with a bonfire pit in the middle - or to hang out in the “1970’s Museum” which is a room full of classic surf nostalgia and 1960 and 70’s collectibles.

I park Baby Blue in the driveway of the last undeveloped beach house still left on Sunset Cliffs, with a front yard vegetable garden right next to her and our five chickens in their coup. We put together some dinner, the crew takes off, we take a jacuzzi and get to bed early.

The next day my girl comes over and wakes me up around sunrise and...”

QUIVERS & WHEELS LAKE PO WELL PADDLEBO ARDS

By Lucy Lucille Photos: Jordan and Joe Lapekas

NO NEED FOR WHEELS Lake Powell Paddleboards PA G E , A R I Z O N A

For some retailers, doing things the traditional way means getting a construction company to build out a full store with cement, wood, tile and whatever else one needs to make it happen. For Lake Powell Paddleboards, the fruit of their labor was born by thinking outside the box (or rather in their case a shipping container) by utilizing a unique, up cycled way to re-build out their store. From start to finish, Page Arizona’s SUP shop has one of the most original designs in the

88 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

IT’S YOUR WATERLIFE.

WE OUTFIT IT.

Charlene E. Santa Cruz, CA Charlene is wearing prAna Mara Jacket & prAna Ara Swim Tights.

westmarine.com Plus more than 260 stores nationwide

QUIVERS & WHEELS LAKE PO WELL PADDLEBO ARDS

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

area with the look of a Southwest theme and eco-friendly vibe within Red Rock country. Page, Arizona offers one of the most extraordinary places in the world to paddle canyons, crevices, and waterways.

Tell us what made you decide to build a container store?

After our 2nd year renting space in Page, we decided to jump in with both feet and buy a building. We had a vision for the kind of shop we wanted to have. We had been searching for a good building in Page that would suit our needs but couldn’t find one that was what we wanted.

We wanted our shop to be as unique as our local landscape. We had liked the idea of using shipping containers for this, as it is like building with Lego blocks. Then on a trip to Vegas, we had seen the Container Park and the idea started to come to life. So we found a suitable piece of property in Page and purchased it. We both liked the idea of using

90 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

recycled materials. Having now decided to use containers involved a lot of research and speaking to a lot of people. It was near the port in Carson, California where we eventually sourced them out.

It was expensive to have them delivered, so we found a used 40’ flatbed trailer and drove out to Carson, near Long Beach- a 10-hour drive each way, and picked up our first container and towed it back to Page. We did this three more times, giving us enough to start on the shop. Ninety percent of the construction work we did ourselves. It was quite a learning experience! Our first roadblock was getting the city to allow us to build it. An engineering firm drew up our plans and the next step was to have the city building inspector go over them. Thankfully when we met with the city planning commission, they were supportive of the concept.

From there the cutting and planning on how to best make all the

STANDUPpaddlemagazine.COM /

91

QUIVERS & WHEELS LAKE PO WELL PADDLEBO ARDS

elements come together. The cement work was our first stumbling block but we were able to have some great people help us out with it.

There was a lot to it, everything from installing the underside insulation, building out the roof and interior studs, underground work of the water, sanitary and electric that required trenching across the driveway and then reburied, the windows, porch, and interior pallet wood siding as well as sanding the wood floors. The shop itself is 960 square feet with a ceiling height of 9’6” and took us approximately 14 months from start to finish. Building a shipping container store was cheaper, but it did involve plenty of sweat equity, with that said it was a third of the cost if we had opted to do the new construction route.

Our main idea was to be able to re-purpose as much of the building materials as possible. Utilizing the shipping containers, recycled barn

92 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

“Our main idea was to be able to re-purpose as much of the building materials as possible.”

ahead...

Get Faster with SUP Erg!

FEATURES INCLUDE adjustable resistance on–board computer reactive instability platform

k ayak pro .c o m /sup 914.740.5055 sa les @ kaya kpro.com

danny ching world no. 1 sup racer world champion

kaya k p r o . c o m / s up

QUIVERS & WHEELS LAKE PO WELL PADDLEBO ARDS

siding, old shelving, pallet wood, plus furniture and displays that we bought from thrift shops- we were able to do the majority of the building in a eco-friendly manner. We were able to design the building just the way we wanted. It is OURS! in every way. Having a building as unique as our environment with minimum environmental impact feels great!

Watching the transformation of something as simple as a cargo container turning into an SUP shop has been an unforgettable journey!

Hindsight is of course 20/20, and we learned a great deal doing this project. Our next project here is building an SUP-themed Hostel out of the same repurposed shipping containers here on the same property.

Hope to have it done by summer 2017!

94 /SPMagazine / VOL 8Nº3 2O16

“Having a building as unique as our environment with minimum environmental impact feels great!”

BE ONE OF 8 WOMEN to experience the real side of Hawaii on an exclusive adventure with the island’s top professional watermen and women in: FITNESS TRAINING YOGA ON LAND AND WATER

Hike Waterfalls and Crater SUP and Surf Waikiki And paddle the historical 3.5 mile Independence Day Paddleboard Race from Sunset Beach to Waimea Bay

Samatamag.com Info@Samatamag.com

~

WOMEN WELLNESS CAMP

JULY 1ST - 7TH, 2016, OAHU, HAWAII PRESENTED BY:

ALL WOMEN ATTENDING THE CAMPS WILL RECEIVE PRODUCT AND GEAR FROM:

SPmag_02_08_16:Layout 1 2/11/16 8:57 PM Page 1

I N D I G O - S U P. C O M

SUMMER 2016 COLLECTION FEATURED PRODUCTS

SHELBY TAYLOR // VTEAM ATHLETE

m2o spread ad.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

6/10/16

12:31 PM