SURGEBODYBOARDING.COM VERSION 8.0

VERSION8.0

PUBLISHER SURGE MEDIA GROUP | SURGEBODYBOARDING.COM CREATIVE DIRECTOR | FOUNDER Richard Pata surgebodyboarding@yahoo.com EDITOR Paul Benco cloudbreak9@yahoo.com PHOTO CHIEF Maurice Aubuchon halfripe@hotmail.com SR. PHOTO EDITOR Colin McGillivray info@ColinMPhotography.com Sr. Designer Nicholas Seymour nseymour808@gmail.com

South Pacific Eric Schnitzler thedriftvideo@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Maurice Aubuchon, Nicola Lugo, Sacha Specker, Joshua Shelly, David Baker, Edwin Morales, Ryan Craig, Andrew Chisholm, Dan Taylor, Patrick Grady, Dane Grady, Chris Allen, Jordan Anast, Alex Verharst, Carlos Santana, Luke Shadbolt, Chris Zeh, Steve Jones, Mike Cerrone, Clark Little, Eric Schnitzer, Chris Burkard, Caleb Davenport, Bret Winners, Vince Cavataio, Colin McGillivray, Adam Warmington, Kalen Foley, Cameron Gundlock, Joe Grodzen, Richard Diaz, Ben Jackson, Travis Hackett, Fred Booth, Greg Nielson, Matt Vaughn, Eric Schnitzer, Julien Durand, David Tuarau, Addamon, Patrick Vierra, Warren Anderson, Dustin Michelson, Mitch Nibbs, Zach dela Cruz, Shane Grace, Andrew Rams, Josh Tabone, Robbie Crawford, Aaron Goulding, Keila Grodzen, Andrew Westerman, Nathan Tyack, Mark Balasbas, Timmy Hamilton, Emalia Zuttermeister, Matt Catiglione, Alessandro Masciotti, Tosh Demello, Daniel Moreira, Warren Baynes, Roger Fa, Damien Antioco, Gavin Shigesato, Jeff Yusa, Matt Byzak, Jordan Stallard, Chris Gurney, Brandon Colbert, Jem Cresswell, Joseph Libby, James Mertens, Kristy Kaku Joe Grodzen, Justin Mack, Kevin Gonzalez, Shea Sevilla, Jeff Blege, James Hennessy, Andrew Herch, Joyner, Pablo Jimenez, Jye McDonald, Jeremy Phillips, Marty Kooistra, Morgan Halas, Ron Ziebell, Nick Arant, Don Nguyen, Matt Clark, Dave Weedall, Martin Yelland, Tim McCaig, Josh Wills, Martin Justinevicius, Elmo Ramos, Chase Miller, Ricardo Faustino, Rich Bean, Pedro Ferreira, Jenavieve Belair, Jay Vodipija, Bryan Pezman, Andrew Herchakowski, Scott Sporleder, Aaron Mizushima, Ricardo Estevez, Jon Alexander, Evan Conway, Bob Baldwin, Ricky Miller, Manuel Velez, Gabriel Padial, Chad Barlow, Evan Fa, Julien Durand, Conan Whitehouse, Makana Chaffee, Michael Bolton, James Dawson, Colin Goddard, Wes Broshears, Eddie Olmeda, Neal Miyake, Nicholas Seymour, Bryan Cabalce, Nick Borgens, Manuel Gonzalez, Mike Bain, Mike Neal, Jo Bessen, Jimmie Hepp, Tyler Walker, BJ Yeager, Justin Pirtle, Daniel Kauhaahaa, Carey Trabue, Jared Houston, Nic de Jesus, Caleb Burns, Luke Forgay, Jesús de León, Luis Glez, Larry Castro, German Naranjo, Ruben Del Valle, Mike Neal, Cayetano González, Enoka Hue Sing, Michael Stolz, John Patao, AwemonVision, Joao Pedro Rocha, Kevin Villeur, Nalu Makai Media, Tulha Erdogan, John Barber, Danny Sepkowski, Nick Tribuno, Teza McKenna, Sammy Garcia, Maya Sacks, Tom Prince, Dodosurfphoto, Damian Davila, Colin Black, Joshua Mcgowan, Ayesh Makim, Javier Oddo, Soufiane Laamime, Elijah Welch, Allan Horton, Sebastian Dubois, Justin Enright, Mark Hunisett, Akemi Zurowski, Brandon Obermeier, Bruno Nobeto, MRod Media, Shaun Harada CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Darren Delmore, Eric Schnitzer, Luke Shadbolt, Jay Reale, Russell Hoover, Jared Houston, Nicola Lugo, Jacob Reeve, Mike “Libo” Libudziewski, Mike Cerrone, Joshua Shelly, Murphy Bartling, Neal Miyake, Thomas Pagano, Matt Vaughn, Chris Schlegel, Mike Coots, Micah McMullin, Aaron Byzak, Jacob VanderVelde, Ian Patton, Evan Conway, Richard Pata, Chris Won Taloa, JT Grey, Nicholas Seymour, Mike Stewart, Kawika Kaui, Clark Little, Paul Benco, Spencer Skipper, Sacha Specker, Mark Watts, Eunate Aguirre, Ben Player, Amaury Lavernhe, Happy Zurowski, Mark Balsbas, Adam Dumas, Greg Tindall, Glen Thurston, Adam Burton, Joe Suzuki, Ryan Frazzetta, Jason Bitzer, Al Rumbos, Nicholas Seymour, Anthony Olayon, Robert Isambert, Marcus Rodrigues, Alistair Taylor, Claudia Ferrari, Edwin Morales, Joseph Libby, Robbie Crawford, Hauoli Reeves, Elmo Ramos, Eric Fairbanks, Jeremy Phillips, Sundaran Gillespie, Jonah Romero, Bob Baldwin, Rich Bean, Chris Schlegel, Ricky Miller, Julien Durand, Joe Grodzen, Adam Burton, Alisha Kayama, Alex Gero SurgeBodyBoarding.com online magazine is published by Surge Media Group / SurgeBodyBoarding.com.

Reproduction of any material requires the written consent of the publisher. Copyright ® 2014. All rights reserved. The opinions in the articles are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of Surge Media Group / SurgeBodyBoarding.com and the advertisers. Advertisers assume full responsibility for the entire content and subject matter of all advertisements. Advertisements and articles are accepted upon the representation that the author / agency, or advertiser will indemnify and save Surge Media Group / SurgeBodyBoarding.com of all claims and legal action. Surge Media Group / SurgeBodyBoarding.com does not assume responsibility for unsolicited contributions. All photos should be submitted to Surge Media Group Attn: Photo Editor at surgebodyboarding@yahoo.com. Advertising rates available upon request. Contributors retain all rights to their contributions.

Surge Media Group Email: surgebodyboarding@yahoo.com

Ph: Nick Tribuno | facebook.com/nicktribunophotography

SURGEBODYBOARDING.COM | VERSION 8.0 Miles Kauhaahaa | PH:Mike Neal

“There was a lot of buzz on this day, with a week of Peahi swells forecasted.

It was crowded and everyone was charging. Miles was right in the mix, making his presence known.

Not sure if this is the first DK out there, but it was cool to see him pushing the limits.”

Mike Neal nealstudios.net

1/1600 of a

second

Welcome to quality. Welcome once again to Surge Magazine.

SURGE EDITOR | PAUL BENCO Wind and swell – both strength and direction, sunlight and salt – too much or too little of either, bodyboarder and photographer – their skill or lack thereof, an innumerable fusion of colors – boards, fins, wetsuits, boardshorts, bikinis, sky and water, a periphery of crowds and sea creatures, not to mention the actual wave itself. All these factors must optimally converge into a singularity of visual perfection and be captured by the push of a button.

These flawless and humanly unperceivable fractions of a second are Surge Magazine.

Editor’s note: I want to thank Evan Fa, Surge’s former editor. His insightful write-ups, meticulous editing skills and continued passion in bodyboarding will be missed. I am very honored and humbled to have been invited as the new Editor of Surge, especially knowing who was in the driver’s seat just before me. Thank you to the staff for giving me this opportunity, and, Evan, see you on the NS soon enough.

Surge 8.0 strives to give you no more and no less than the most visually stunning representations of our sport that exist.

Perfect moments of skill and beauty from around the world capturing the very best riders, both known names and new faces.

There is no doubt that photos of our sport abound. Thousands of photos are uploaded onto Facebook and other social media each and every day. Some are cute with captions like, “My son launching just like his father. LOL” accompanied by a little boy attempting an invert in the whitewater.

Some are mediocre, bordering on terrible, with captions like, “Check it out people.

My secret spot firing” followed by someone in a 1-foot beachbreak “barrel” that barely fits half of their head. You, the rider, search for that one special wave; We, the magazine, search for that one special photo. We separate the everyday from the immortal and provide you with the images that define the very best of our sport.

Ph: Talha Erdogan

Paul Benco | Ph: Carlos Padilla | facebook.com/CarlosPadillaFotografia

KONA KUAILANI | PH: ENOKA HUE SING

CONTENT SURGE

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Miles Kauhaahaa | PH: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

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PH: Marcus Rodrigues | facebook.com/mrodmedia

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Ph: NICOLA LUGO | NICOLALUGO.COM

Ph: AweMonVision

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Ph: JT Gray | northshoresurfphotos.com

Ph: Sacha Specker

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Ph: Jacob Vandervelde | Facebook.com/jacobvandervelde

Ph: ColinMPhotography.com

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Ph: Jo達o Pedro Rocha

Ph: KĂŠvin Villeur | facebook.com/kevinvilleur

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Ph: KĂŠvin Villeur | facebook.com/kevinvilleur

Ph: Nalu Makai Media

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SURGE MUSIC

Hey this is Robbie “G-Nutz” Gennet, reviewing some new grooves for Surge Magazine! As a bodyboarder, I’m always spinning jams on the way to and from the beach. Usually on the way, we need some major ampage to get us in the mood to shralp pits and take the hectic drops. And after the sesh, we’re usually looking to chill out and cool down with something a little more on the mellow side. I’m gonna review a few new CD’s to keep you up on what’s shaking on the scene but I’ll also post some playlists for the cultured bodyboarder’s stereo jams. All songs are available on iTunes

BY SURGE MUSIC EDITOR ROBBIE GENNET so you can snag em up. So without further ado, here goes:

Robert Walter’s 20th Congress- Get Thy Bearings

John Butler Trio- Flesh & Blood

Rooted in old school funk, Robert Walter’s 20th Congress mines classic head-bobbing grooves frosted with Walker’s tight Hammond organ playing. It’s an instrumental album that jams perfectly on a long car ride or a beachside boombox. From the bumping opener “Hunk” to the skittish Hendrix cover that ends the record, it’s a grooving musical trip that explores a vintage sound and vibe without sounding ironic or fake. Not many people play such real music nowadays and the feel of the album is deeply authentic and timeless. There’s a mellow tune or two but most of this album is upbeat and boosting in the good mood department. Walter’s early records like Spirit of ’70 are equally timeless and hold up years down the road as well as I think this one will too. He also plays with the Greyboy Allstars and has deep cred in the jam band community. But his heart and soul lie in the booty moving grooves of funk. So get some for your own booty and lay down the vibes at your next happening shindig!

John Butler is an Australian guitarist with solid songwriting and vocal skills. His records are consistently well done and his sound and songwriting has matured nicely. It’s hard to pigeonhole his music because he taps into so many styles including funk, roots rock, reggae and melodic acoustic music. But as always, he’s true to what the song needs. Dig into his last three records- Sunrise Over Sea, Grand National and April Uprising- for some epic jams, catchy melodies and sick guitar playing. His latest record Flesh & Blood is a bit mellower than the last records but the tunes and grooves are easy to vibe on. Highlights include the gentle opener “Spring To Come,” the funky jam “Livin’ In The City,” the catchy first single “Only One” and two moody tracks (“Bullet Girl” and “Wings Are Wide”) which are great for the post-sesh playlist.

Butler is awesome in concert and currently touring the world in case you get a chance to go check him out. I just saw him in LA at the Fonda and he rocked the packed house with favorites new and old. If you haven’t heard John Butler Trio yet, get on it! I’m sure the Aussies are well ahead of us on the JBT but the rest of the world is catching up.

And now a playlist for when the swell jumped up big overnight and you’re heading to the beach and you catch your first glimpse of the ocean rippled with lines…. here’s ten songs to amp you for the paddle out: AMPED2BOOG PLAYLIST #1: HEAVY SHIT AHEAD! 35:46 total time

New World- Saigon Kick Light Up the Sky- Van Halen Lay it Down- Ratt Bonecrusher- Soulhat Pressure and Time- Rival Sons I Like It- Foxy Shazam Rise- Sonnybones To The World Beyond- Mushroom River Band Blasteroid- Mastodon Pain Killers- Big Elf _______________________________ Robbie Gennet can be found at www.mcgnutz.com

Heaven | PH: Marcus Rodrigues | facebook.com/mrodmedia

SURGE LIFE

Ph: Dave Baker

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PH: John Barber | facebook.com/johnbarber671

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Ph: David Tuarau

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Wade Asato | Ph: Neal Miyake

SURGE EMPTIES

Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

Ph: Danny Sepkowski | dannysepkowski.com

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Ph: Nick Tribuno | facebook.com/nicktribuno

Ph: ColinMPhotography.com

SURGE EMPTIES

Y R R E T

S D A O

A N N E MCK

L N U

Surge: Hey Terry, how are you doing?

What you been up to lately since departing from the IBA tour as General Manager?

Well, life’s been pretty simple since I left the IBA. I did almost a year with the KSP (Kite Surf Pro Tour) as the World Tour manager before taking time out to concentrate on being a dad. I have a 22-year-old son and a 16-year-old daughter that I hadn’t seen much, so I wanted to base myself in Australia for a few years and just commentate events full time as well as do my regular job as a radio lifestyle reporter.

Been surfing a lot too!

Surge: Let’s get into it. When did you start to feel that your position on the tour as General Manager was coming to an end and why?

I guess I knew the writing was on the wall pretty early. From the outset, I never really got on with the new boss; we had completely different styles of management and I saw a few things that didn’t add up. I was in a difficult position because I was the General Manager of the IBA (non profit) working as the Tour Manager for IBA Pty Ltd (Gregg Taylor). So, on one hand, I was fighting for the rights of the people, and on the other, I was answering to Gregg and the shareholders.

any of the crew; they saw that the sport took a quantum leap forward and they were afraid to jeopardize it.

Just before Fronton in November 2012, IBA Pty Ltd stole the domain name (www. ibaworldtour.com) off me when they said they wanted to update some info on the GoDaddy account. I was the custodian of the domain and it was the one and ONLY thing that the non-profit held over the Pty crew. They got into the account, changed the passwords, and locked me out. As the account holder, I was sent an email and when I realized what they had done, I called GoDaddy and they said, “You have a phone password on this account.”

So, I got back into the account, changed the password, and then emailed Gregg Taylor and the IBA Steering committee to explain what had happened. At this point, I knew my relationship was destroyed and I could no longer work with the guy, so I resigned. It was a sad day for me to say the least.

Surge: Did you force yourself to stay in that role as long as you could because you cared about the sport and the riders, or did you feel that once things started to fall apart for reasons you had no control over it was best to exit your position?

I hung in there as long as I could, and I had many meetings with the steering committee to warn them about the potential misuse of proceedings by the management, but unfortunately, it fell mostly on deaf ears. Apparently, a guy waving a chequebook took precedence over a guy waving a red flag. But, no hard feelings to

Surge: Now as an outsider looking in, what’s your opinion on the tour as it stands now?

Would you go back? And if so, what would have to change in order to go back?

It saddens me to watch from the sidelines to be honest. I spent seven years building a super brand that has just been destroyed in less then one year after I departed. It obviously needs to go backwards before it can move forward. I have been in talks with the guys and have helped Craig Hadden behind the scenes to build a model similar to the 2009 tour that will attract promoters and give us a base to work from. I am hoping to help out at events in 2014, and to work closely with Alex Leon to help mastermind the next phase of the sport’s growth. To be truthful, I feel obliged to help get the ship back on track as I was the one that cut the deal with IBA Pty Ltd in the first place, and of course, I still think it’s an amazing product.

Surge: What’s your take on the new APB (Association of Professional Bodyboarders)?

Its good to see the guys band together like this to show some unity, but I would be lying if I said I was a fan of starting again.

The platforms that were laid down with the IBA are irreplaceable. The tens of thousands of fans on the Facebook page, the millions of views on the Youtube channel, and the website subscribers will take years and big dollars to recreate. I’ve been around long enough to see the ASP go down on one knee a few times, only to rise to the most powerful

brand in pro surfing. The brand history is still worth a lot, and I still live in hope that it’s salvageable.

Surge: What were your favorite moments on the IBA Tour?

Driving around the corner for the first time at El Confital to see the main stage setup in Canary Islands. My eyes lit up and it was a moment that I had worked hard for with the team. That event will always be hard for me to match; it was beyond what some ASP events do in ALL departments and a real milestone in the sport’s history. Roberto, the promoter, was a great friend and the best promoter we ever had, and sadly he passed away at 53 last year from an aneurism.

Surge: We know you probably enjoyed watching all the riders compete, but which ones to you stood out and why?

Amaury for his professionalism. Uri Valadao for his determination. Mark McCarthy for is aerial awareness. Kingy for his all-round ability. Jeff for his contest savvy. Mike for his EVERYTHING! Surge: Why do you think US surf companies and corporate companies don’t get behind bodyboarding? And what do you think the sport needs to do as a whole to attract these companies without looking like the sport is selling out?

It needs to be packaged differently. Making a blueprint of what the ASP does is not the answer.

We will always need a World Tour to crown champions, but I still believe that a reality TV show featuring big wave riders, with social media interaction is the key. I have been sitting on a concept that would blow minds, but we just need cash to roll it out.

Surge: If you could put together a Super Tour, what would that look like and how would it be structured?

It needs to be affordable for riders and profitable for promoters; maybe five events max (Pipe, Chile, Mexico, Australia, and Fronton).

Surge: After your exit, there was a lot of shit that went down with the tour and the media blasted people behind the scenes, with the exception being yourself. How did this make you feel?

I was stoked to see the guys that screwed it up getting what they deserved. The fans are what drive the sport. We ran a business, they were our customers, and you ALWAYS look after your customers, otherwise the business folds.

Surge: Finish this sentence: The future of professional bodyboarding is…

The future of professional bodyboarding is coming soon. It’s an awesome product and when managed correctly, can be a profitable, entertaining sport.

Surge: Last thoughts and thank you: I need to say a huge thanks to Craig Hadden and Kiryn Clay. We were the nucleus of the IBA for many years and together we built an empire out of sticks and stones. Every day, I still get emails form fans around the world asking me to come back and help the sport, and it is these simple things that drive me. I’ll be back in some capacity this year for sure, and I look forward to the next chapter of not only my life, but also the sport in general.

All Photos Courtesy of Teza

SURGE LIFE

DUBB | PH: Marcus Rodrigues | facebook.com/mrodmedia

SURGE LIFE

Maurice Aubuchon | Ph: Neal Miyake

Art & Life Interview by: SURGEBODYBOARDING.COM Photos by: JT Gray / Nicholas Seymour

CKweeKs: Definitely the overall attitude of it’s people.

Hawaii is the perfect melting pot of all things brought together in unison. I mean, I’m not saying we don’t experience negativity in the islands, but overall, the positivity and Aloha of the Hawaiian people keeps everything Pono. That’s what I like to portray in my art... PMA and good vibes. Hang loose brah! Spread the good vibes.

SURGE: You’ve been able to work on some amazing projects. What’s been your favorite and why?

ALOHA - Please introduce

yourself. Where are you from and how did art get introduced to you in life?

Howzit, this is CKaweekS. I’m an artist born and raised in Hawaii. I had the pleasure of being inspired by my surroundings, family, and friends who have helped push me to where I am today. I am grateful for everyone that I have crossed paths with. Respect.

SURGE: Why do think graffiti has been embraced by the masses, and what do you say to the people that think it’s still a form of vandalism.

CKweeKs: Graffiti or Street

Art? You have to respect the sprays in all aspects. Hawaii is starting to show a little more appreciation for spray paint as a medium. Although, a vast majority still classify everything done with spray paint as graffiti. In fact, there was a story in the news stating Hawaii has a graffiti problem and they showed some dope murals by Katch1 and Ekundayo. I was like, “WTF?!”

So, I guess it’s a vicious cycle of identity crisis. Everyone loves graffiti when it’s not on their property, right?

SURGE: What about Hawaii inspires you to be the artist you are?

CKweeKs: I just got done painting at Pow! Wow! Hawaii!

2014. It’s a locally based event that gathers artists from around the world for one big paint party. This year, I did a collab wall with my good friend Beak and it was a blast. Nonstop laughs every time! Other than painting at the event, I had the opportunity to release a limited edition print with 1XRUN in collaboration with Pow! Wow! Hawaii. I was stoked to be a part of a killer lineup of other local Hawaiian artists as well as international artists featured for the Pow! Wow! Hawaii print series.

Every project is an amazing one for me and I am very grateful for any past, present, and future opportunities to share my work. I am looking forward to 2014 and beyond, but you will have to follow me to see what unfolds!

SURGE: What would be your dream project?

CKweeKs: Anything that my family can enjoy with me. I’d be stoked on anything that can involve or support my ohana.

I just had a baby girl named Sadie Mahealani. I guess you can say the dream has been achieved and I am working to be the best father I can to her.

SURGE: What inspires you to create?

CKweeKs: Humor & life experiences. Or maybe the humor in life’s experiences?

Definitely that positive mental attitude.

SURGE: What one word describes you and your art?

CKeeKs: OSS!

SURGE: Finish this sentence: Vision to me is _______

CKweeKs: Vision to me is the precursor to fruition.

SURGE: What makes Hawaii a hot bed for up and coming artists like yourself?

CKweeKs: I love Hawaii. I love the ocean, the surf, it’s people, shave ice, the aloha spirit, and poke bowls. It’s because of

these things someone chooses to stay here and pursue whatever it is they want to do in life. Some say you can’t be successful being based out of the islands. But how do you measure success? As long as you’re happy and living within your means, what more can you ask for?

SURGE: Last words/ shout outs!

CKweeKs: Big ups to JT NSSP for linking me up with SURGE for this write-up. Mahalo SURGE for giving me the opportunity. There are too many people I’d like to shout out so big ups to all my family, friends, and supporters! Mad respect to everyone from the islands doing what they love!

Follow me on Instagram @jahjahjitsu! www.jahjahjitsu.com.

Cheeeeeeee!

Art & Life

SURGE LIFE

Da Boyz | PH: Aaron Goulding | jagmediaproductions.com

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Sammy Garcia | PH: Andrew Westerman

FORGOTTEN

COAST PHOTOS BY MAYA SACKS | WORDS BY ANDREW RAMS & ART FISCHER

If

Oregon brings up images of camo-

wearing loggers in juiced-up diesel pickups, your sources are reliable. Wave riders, like hippies and intellectuals, are underground along most of this rugged coastline. Fishkilling is huge, both sport and commercial.

Road signs advertising “Deer” or “Elk” are often riddled with bullet holes. While surfing and surfers in Oregon can’t be readily stereotyped, there does exist hardcore surfers and their surf culture is one of an untapped coastline.

Although the water is cold, even in the summer, there is always surf. Points,coves wedges, and especially certain beach breaks at the right tide, can all get world class. It really is a cold-water nirvana. While the winds and weather can change on a dime, the wildlife remains constant: Everywhere. And what about Great Whites? Of course. Everyone seems to know someone who has seen at least one Great White roaming Oregon’s isolated waters.

Oregon’s 330 miles of coastline has more wave setups than there are people to ride them. I’ve surfed river mouths and jetties, even near towns, with nobody around for miles. The past couple months, although icy, have brought solid, long-interval west swells varying between six and fifteen feet Hawaiian.

Most of the towns have a small, tight local crew, ranging in behavior from bitter and hostile to “glad to see ya.” Often you wish there were more heads in the water, even when it is good.

That’s no joke!

Art Fischer and Andrew Rams

FORGOTTEN

COAST PHOTOS BY MAYA SACKS | WORDS BY ANDREW RAMS & ART FISCHER

What DKLIFE means to me? DK has been a huge part of my life. DK has made me a role model and inspiration for many of the younger generations that have taken up the DK style of riding over the years which I take pride in. DK has also not only made me many friends from all over the world, but, most importantly, the friendships and bonds since the beginning that have spanned decades: Jimmy Hutaff, Bert Kuwahara, Mikie McGuire, Cary Kayama, and Kawika Drummond.

I’m so passionate about DK because it’s been a huge part of my life and I want that to continue.

With that said, I want to thank Dave Nitta for all you did for me since the beginning because without you none of this would have become a reality. Thank you to Uncle Danny Black not only for the sacrifices you made in helping me get to where I am now, and I’m not only talking about the photos. Your friendship and your being there for me has been a blessing. I love you for that! Thank you Jimmy, Bert, and I actually learned to DK before we learned to prone. The prone side didn’t interest also to Maurice Aubuchon for all my “magic” shots. Andrew Rams and Ryan Beppu for countless us until we were already 3 years into DK. For us, it was ALWAYS for the love of the knee and still is. shoots, talks, and laughs! To all my sponsors who’ve helped me along my journey: 808Empire, The It also allowed me to meet, surf, and be mentored by the greats like Kainoa McGee, Kyle Maligro, Foam Company, The No.6 Bodyboards, and JYK Digital Graphics.

Paul Roach, and Jacky Buder. The list of names that inspired me could take up pages and pages if I were to go into detail and maybe, one day, I’ll write a autobiography. But, for now I will just men- To all my “Brothers of the Knee” all around the world, I hope that I get to share at least one session tion my biggest influences. with each and every one of you some day! Until then, inspire and encourage the people who look up to you and guide them because they are the legacy we leave behind! DK4Life!!! Love you all!

Kainoa “Unko” McGee was the only guy who could push me to push my limits. I have so much love and respect for him because he helped me more than he could ever imagine; so much so that my -Leroy aka “Da Landlord” Kaiwi son’s middle name is Kainoa.

Secondly, Kyle Maligro. His love for the sport and his passion just to have fun in the water amazed me. I used to watch all of the Kauai Classic videos just so I could study his backside DK riding because, to me, he couldn’t be touched by anyone. If you happen to be reading this Kyle, I hope I have made you proud and just know that you are a major part of my being considered THE BEST BACKSIDE DROPKNEE RIDER IN THE WORLD! Yeah, I just put that in bold letters and I’m not being cocky either. I’m just proud of the things I’ve accomplished, the companies I helped build, and the lives I’ve influenced along my journey.

One thing I think needs to happen for DK riders is to somehow have their own tour. As long as DK is ran as a part of a whole, we will ALWAYS take the back seat to prone. That is the main reason I stepped back out of the sport. Not because I didn’t love it anymore, and not because of all the other things I disapproved of as far as sponsorships, attitudes, lack of respect, and loyalty. I’ve given my heart and soul for the sport we all love with hopes that the younger generations would have the same outlook that I’ve had all this time. I have made friends with so many DK riders from around the globe and see that they share the same desire to be equals, but that won’t happen unless we, as DK guys, stand together and start our own tour! Stop competing to be the best. If you all continue to just be competitive without looking at the bigger picture we will never accomplish anything as DK riders and you will continue fighting for the scraps. Sorry for the rant, but I guess

Leroy “da Landlord” Kaiwi | Ph: Maurice aubuchon

Jake Minnehan | PH: Tom Prince | www.scprince.smugmug.com

Micha Mcmullin | Ph: Maurice aubuchon

WYATT HENRY | PH: DODOSURFPHOTO

Manny Vargas | Ph: Damian Davila | www.damiandavilaphotography.com

Keoni Haina | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

Derek Miyashiro | PH: Colin Black

Dave Hubbard | Ph: Joshua Mcgowan | facebook.com/JoshuaMcgowan

Elliot Morales | Ph: SAcha SPecker | facebook.com/thespecker

Sacha Specker | Ph: Ayesha

Makim

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

J.T. Gray what a great man. After

serving in numerous wars and giving his life for the military, his soul is meant for Hawaii. He soaks in the culture and lives with Aloha. But for many outsiders looking in, people would never know that JT is amongst one of the best photographers out there, hands down. J.T., from our deepest appreciation for what you do for our country and the images you bless us with, this is a big Mahalos to you!

Surge: Aloha JT, tell us about yourself, where you grew up, and how you landed in Hawaii.

JT: I grew up on the Outer Banks of NC. More specifically Avon, or Kinnakeet, to the locals. I showed up on Oahu at the beginning of 2002 and will go into how I arrived here in paradise in a bit.

Surge: What do most people not know about you?

JT: Most people don’t know I am a Chief in the Navy and have been serving for 16 years now.

Surge: What drew you to photography, and why?

JT: Surfing... I started bodyboarding at a young age and at 15 started surfing a little. A few us were sitting around looking at a surf mag one day and one of my friends said, “Wouldn’t it be cool to have photos of us like this?” That’s when it hit me. I thought it might be fun so I asked my cousin to borrow his Minolta 110 film camera and started swimming around with that. I believe it was the Christmas of 1993 that my parents

bought me the first Canon Rebel… remember all the Andre Aggasi commercials? Been shooting ever since. I think over the years I have shot for different reasons, but mainly for the pure passion I have for people, life, and the ocean.

Surge: Everyone’s life has ups and downs. Tell us what your scariest time in your life was in or out of the water and your greatest moments.

JT: The scariest time of my life was in Afghanistan. Two weeks after I arrived, I was on a convoy that was about 600 meters from a 2,000-pound improvised explosive device. The feeling that day, I will never forget. I had some moments in the water too. I have a love/ hate relationship with Waimea Bay Shorey.... seems like I always end up stuck in the rip over there. Swam for six hours once at Keiki on a rising swell. The first 3 hours were good, but when I was ready to go in, it seemed like every time I tried to get in the sets came. I couldn’t walk when I finally made it to shore. As for the greatest moments, wow, that’s a tough question. Life in general is great, but I guess the two that stand out the most are when I was selected for Chief and when my first photos were published back in 2003.

Surge: A lot of people have seen your amazing water imagery, but your lifestyle stuff is amazing as well. What draws you to shoot lifestyle imagery from models to musicians?

JT: I have a deep love for people and art. I believe music is a gift. Bob Marley once said, “When the music hits, you feel no pain.” There is so much truth in that, especially for me. I have been

lucky enough to photograph a ton of concerts and musicians. When I photograph people or models, just seeing them smile is what it’s all about for me.

Plus, half the models I shoot are half naked so that’s not so bad either, right?

Surge: Tell us what makes you different from a lot of the other guys that shoot.

JT: I think versatility separates me from a lot of other photographers. I will probably take a lot of crap for this statement but I’m ok with it. Nowadays, people don’t understand photography and the fundamentals behind the art. With the digital cameras as good as they are now, people shoot and get instant feedback. Back in the day, you had to wait a week or 24 hours before the film was processed and that forced you to understand how light works or else you would be wasting a lot of money on film and processing. My advice to the aspiring photographers: Take the time to learn the basics since it’ll pay off in the long run.

Surge: Which bodyboarders to you really sets the bar high, and who do you love shooting with?

JT: Another tough one. Jeff Hubbard is unreal to shoot from land and Jacob Vandervelde from the water, super smooth scoops in the shorey. But all in all, I would rather shoot my friends.

It’s one thing to get a photo published, but when you get a shot of a friend, you share that stoke a lot longer.

Surge: Tell us about your military service and how that experience has been.

JT: The military has been pretty good to

me overall. I enlisted when I was 19 and ended up in Jacksonville, Florida onboard the USS John F Kennedy. Spent 3 years there and was thinking of getting out, but was offered a job here on Oahu.

So I stayed in and arrived on the island in February 2002. It’s been pretty good, and at the end of my third tour on Oahu, I was told the only way to get orders for a fourth tour would be to go to Afghanistan for a year. This was the hardest decision I have ever had to make, but my love for Hawai’i is so strong that I decided to do whatever I had to do to stay here. I deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan in October 2013 and returned home in November 2014. Would I do it again? I don’t think I could. You learn a lot about yourself and people in general in time of conflict. Part of me wishes everyone in the United States could be exposed to Afghanistan to see what the people of that country and our troops go through on a daily basis. WE ARE TRULY BLESSED. Surge: In life, you influence a lot of people with great advice. What would your words be to aspiring photographers and bodyboarders from around the world?

JT: Love the life you live, live the life you love. Don’t take life for granted because you never know what tomorrow may hold. Treat others with the respect that you want to be treated with.

Surge: Last words…

JT: Whatever you love to do, do it with passion and you will succeed. ALOHA!

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

All Photos Courtesy of J.T. Gray | www.facebook.com/northshoresurfphotos

FITNESS & SURGE FITNESS EDITOR | MIKE SIMONE

TRAINING Mike Simone: SurgeBodyboarding.com Fitness & Training Correspondent

www.humanfitproject.com

MOVE NATURALLY: The Star Plank The total-body primer for bodyboarding’s inherent movement patterns.

Inverts, rolls, and even the basic mechanics of paddling from the prone position and scooping off the bottom, all actively engage the core. If the body is unconditioned, it’s going to feel it after a long session.

This month, I’m highlighting the star plank. This is an advanced progression from the traditional plank, or side plank, and it’s a very valuable one for bodyboarders to master.

Considering all of the rotations, contortions, and shifting of weight while surfing, the star plank is the ultimate strengthener for the obliques, lower back, and hip flexors.

The movement also improves stability and muscular balance in the shoulders and hips.

HOW TO DO IT:

MOVE NATURALLY T H E S TA R P L A N K PH: Javier Oddo | http://www.javieroddo.com/

1. Lie on your side with your legs straight and prepare to place your weight on your forearms.

2. Engage your obliques/core and raise your hips/body off the ground. You’re now in the beginner side plank position.

3. Slowly lift your elbow off the ground so your holding yourself up with your hand.

4. Slowly raise one leg up and reach your other arm into the sky. Hold this position as long as possible. (Don’t allow your hips to sink) * Complete 3-5 sets of this exercise on each side for as long as you can hold it. Practice and perform it 3-5+ days per week. ** As you progress, try reaching and stretching your arm higher and more inverted while also lifting your leg. Envision an invert...

----MIKE SIMONE is the Fitness and Training Correspondent to SURGE Magazine, he’s also the founder of HUMANFITPROJECT and is the Online Director for Men’s Fitness Magazine. Follow him on Twitter @Mike_Simone_ or on Instagram @Mike_Simone

SURGE PRODUCT REVIEW | HUBBOARDS The new Air Hubb Swim Fins possess the perfect combination of comfort and power.

These High performance swim fins are manufactured with the highest quality 100% floating Malaysian rubber. The calculated durometer throughout the fin has been fine tuned to Maximize power and thrust with every kick without compromising comfort. These fins also feature dual drainage holes to prevent debris from collecting around your feet and a traction grip bottom to assist you when navigating slippery terrain.

They are available in four fresh flashy color ways. Ask for them at your favorite surf shop.

Hubboards leashes are specifically designed and built with strength, durability and comfort in mind. The Hubboards leashes use the strongest urethane cord on the market. This coil is engineered to stay coiled longer and tighter than any other. This makes sure your leash is out of your way when riding and maximizes performance. A newer comfortable and lighter cuff is used on the comp leash series. These comp leashes are recommended for use for advanced riders in every day surf. Four different Hubboards leashes are on offer for all preferences. Both Wrist and Bicep Comp leashes as well as a Big wave leash and a XL Bicep cuff for the big boys. Five different Crisp color ways are available to mix or match with your Hubboards and Air Hubb fins The Hubboard 2014 range has it all. As two of the best riders ever in the world have designed some of the most amazing boards that you can imagine riding. The Champions Brand of boards, these brothers have an obese amount of world, national and regional titles and also know how to design the best bodyboards. The Hubboards have the latest and most responsive and explosive properties that always allow everyone to have the most fun riding and fine tuning your abilities in all conditions. The PP Pro Plus Hubboards are the top of the line boards in the range that have all the bells and whistles like a superior stringer system, surlyn slicks, diamond mesh and CNC contoured decks. The Dubb Edition series has versatile templates that allow for both high performance prone and drop knee riding. The Hubb Edition series template is built for speed and control to provide the best all around riding experiences possible in all conditions from big pipeline to fun beach breaks. Look for Hubboards in all fine surf shops and specialty bodyboard shops world wide.

jeff hubbard | ph: Neal miyake

Dave Hubbard | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon

Aloha Jeff & Dave Hubbard www.hubboards.com

sane backside drops at the Pipe, Cole Hanson (Haw) with incredible backside snaps, and Mack Crilley (Young gun from Maui), getting some backside barrels. Also, there was local underground shredder Justin Medeiros (Haw), Edgardo “Galdo” Gomez (PRT) landing some huge floaters and lip-slides, and Sandy’s local Alan Lamphere (Haw) pulling in every pit possible, making it out of some and finishing with vicious snaps. Finally, Micah McMullen (HAW) got the highest score (9.83) in the DK division with an insane barrel at Backdoor.

It’s such a cool thing when all the planets align. With the disintegration of the IBA World Tour, it seemed that our longest running and most prestigious event at Pipeline would be a “no go”. But we bodyboarders are a relentless breed and the collaborative minds of IBA Tour Coordinator Ben Severson, APB creators/inventors Mike Stewart and Alex Leon, the APB Pipe Challenge was “ON!”

We soon went into some of the Women’s Pro division heats and they did not disappoint. In fact, their heats were incredibly entertaining and the level that the women brought was impeccable. We witnessed Lilly Pollard go on a 6 ft Backdoor drainer, disappear, reappear, then pull in the closeout with style! Early round upsets of former World Champion and defending Pipe Champion Isabella Sousa and multiple Pipe champ Aoi Koike made it clear we would crown a new Women’s Pipe Champ.

While the two Hawaiians that showed up were the Westside’s Melanie Bartels and Summer Hillen were unable to advance through their heats, standouts from abroad included Minami Hatekeyama (JPN), Alexandra Rinder (CAN), Lilly Pollard (AUS), and Jessica Becker (BRA). Eventually, it was Pollard taking the title with Rinder 2nd, Becker 3rd, and Emma Cobb (AUS) 4TH. DK finals. Josh Trotter took an early lead in the final and looked like the man to beat. His first wave was a barrel into a floater. Then came Dave “Dubb” Hubbard.

His relationship with Pipe showed as he put on a DK clinic with clean barrels into enormous hacks and carves. The final placings were Dubb in first, Josh Trotter 2nd, Gomez 3rd, and Cole Hanson 4th.

Sunday, Feb. 23 – Men’s and Jr. Men’s Final A full day of Men’s Round 6 to the final as well as the Jr. Pro Final was completed on Sunday. This day would also greet the rest of the world with a webcast thanks to Mike Stewart and Science Bodyboards. The first heats of Round 6 were “upset nation” with the likes of World Champions Guilherme Tamega, Andre Botha, and Mike Stewart not advancing. Then, the “shocker” of the day; contest favorite and Friday, Feb. 22 – Men’s Division (Rounds 4 and 5) Pipe maestro Jeff Hubbard had his competitors combo’d for the first half of his heat.

With the cooperation of Mother Nature (southwest winds and a 4-6 But, at this level, you can’t let your guard down as young Western Australian Davis ft. swell), the moment we were all waiting for was about to happen. Blackwell and fellow countryman Lachlan Cramsie fought their way back and sent Standouts from Round 4: Andre Botha (SAF), showing everyone that Hubbard in with a 3rd place heat finish. he had never really “left” the competition world. Also, Joao Zik (BRA), who was linking barrels into flips. In addition, Hugo Pinheiro (POR) Standouts? It seemed that everyone had at least one great wave in their heat. PLC, was making it out of some insane barrels while Tanner McDaniel Alex Uranga, Jacob Romero, Amaury Lavernhe… we are talking about the best of (HAW) did the biggest backflip at Pipe all day. the best! Jake Stone completed a double roll at Pipe, Magno Passos was on fire as the quarterfinal heats could have easily been the finals.

Standouts from Round 5. We saw the World Tour pool come into play with standouts Jared Houston (SAF), Jacob Romero (HAW), Babby Jared Houston looked unstoppable! He did the biggest invert of the contest on a Quinones (PUE), and Diego Cabrera (CAN). So much action and we Backdoor drainer that made the crowd on the beach erupt in applause and cheers. weren’t even into final day yet.

His strategy to go right instead of left shot him straight to the final. I had the opportunity to interview him on the webcast after his semi-final win and asked the Saturday, Feb. 23 – Dropknee and Women hardest question: “Did you peak too soon?” (He’s been in this position before with Although the waves seemed to have dropped from the day before, the his 2nd place finish behind PLC at Fronton). Also, going ballistic was Uri Valadao conditions were contestable, especially for the women and the drop- (BRZ). We were all thoroughly impressed by his barrel riding and the cleanest flips kneers. As we moved into more DK prelims, it seemed uncharacteris- and ARSs! Joining them in the final was World Champ and defending Pipe Champ tic that the Hawaiians (who made up the majority of the DK division) Ben Player (Aus) and Hawaiian Spencer Skipper. couldn’t shake their nerves and many didn’t pass their heats. However, the standouts included Thomas Leayr (Aus) who was making some inAnd “on” it was thanks the following sponsors: Kellog’s, Pepsi, Science Bodyboards, Gyroll Leashes and Wetsuits, MS Viper fins, YouRiding, 662 Ride Shop, Reeflex Wetsuits, and T&C. The forecast for the three day event, from February 21st to 23rd, was showing a 4-8 ft. swell and an anticipated 8-10 ft. swell on Sunday to complete the event.

BP VICTORIOUS CARRY IN | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

Jr. Pro Final But first, the Jr. Pro Final! Who at 13-16 years of age (with the exception of Andre Botha) would rush 4-8 ft. Pipeline with reckless abandon? Well, these “kids” sure did. Tanner McDaniel, whom everyone deems is the “future” of our sport, didn’t disappoint. His first wave in the final was a 6 ft. Pipe barrel into a backflip. Need I say more? The other competitors by then were just competing for second. Noa Auweloa from Maui went Backdoor and smashed a huge invert off the closeout. Alex Castillo the lone non-Hawaiian was charging like a madman. Then there was 13 year old Kawika Kamai from Waimanalo, HI. His father John is a Sandys and Makapu’u legend and the hometown contingent were stoked to say the least of their Eastside son. The results: McDaniel 1st, Auweloa 2nd, Castillo 3rd, Kamai 4th.

The future is in good hands.

Men’s Final Ben Player was like a predator. Consistently making it out of his heats and then “peaking” in the final. Barrel to backflip. Barrel to ARS. A man possessed. Expecting Backdoor to bless him again, Jared Houston did his best and got in some barrels and even a backflip on the left at Pipe. While local hero and charger Spencer Skipper (HAW) had the highest scoring ride in his QF heat with an incredible Backdoor barrel into the cleanest, and highest air reverse (9.83 pts), in the Final, he squeezed through what seemed to be an un-makeable barrel and did the same on a Pipe left. Uri Valadao was in “flip-mode” and boosted the biggest backflip of the contest on a Backdoor screamer. But, when the dust settled, it was Player 1st, Valadao 2nd, Skipper 3rd, and Houston 4th. Without sounding anti-climactic, this was an incredible contest that I was glad to be a part of it. Congrats again to Pollard, Dubb, McDaniel, and Player. The APB Tour is shaping up to be a great one!

Ben Player | PH: Jordan Stallard @jordanstallard

PH: ColinMPhotography.com

DK WINNER | DAVE HUBBARD | PH: Elijah Welch LADIES PODIUM| LILLY POLLARD WINNER

| PH: Elijah Welch

Tanner McDaniel | Ph: Soufiane Laamime | www.soufphotography.com

Keahi Parker | Ph: Soufiane Laamime | www.soufphotography.com

Spencer Skipper | Ph: Soufiane Laamime | www.soufphotography.com

Pierre Louis Costes | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

Babby Quinones | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

Jared Houston | PH: Josh Wills | willsyphoto.com

Guilherme Tamega | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

PH: Josh Wills | willsyphoto.com

Andre Botha | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

Magno Passos (red) & Diego Cabrera (black) dual ARS | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

SURGE LIFE

PH: Marcus Rodrigues | facebook.com/mrodmedia

SURGE LIFE

PH: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

SURGE LIFE

PH: ADDAMON

SURGE LIFE

Island beauty | www.soufphotography.com

Jacob VanderVelde | Ph: Clark Little | clarklittle.com

STYLE & POWER S t y l e & Po w e r t o m e i s flowing with the power source of the wave, riding the wave and not letting the wave ride y o u bu t f l o w i n g w i t h i t .

Jacob VanderVelde

STYLE & POWER

Mike stewart | Gavin Shigesato | shigephoto.co

STYLE & POWER

Happy Z | PH: Patrick Vieira | facebook.com/patrickvieira

STYLE & POWER

Hankus loubser | Ph: Allan Horton | facebook.com/alanhortphotography

STYLE & POWER

Evan Fa | Ph: Sebastien Dubois

STYLE & POWER

Spirit Herrington | Ph: Nalu Makai Media

STYLE & POWER

PARKER MENDENHALL | PH: JUSTIN ENRIGHT | instagram.com/justinenright

STYLE & POWER

Rex Moribe | PH: ColinMPhotography.com

STYLE & POWER

Willy Petrovic | Ph: Nalu Makai Media

STYLE & POWER

Chase Maglangit | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

STYLE & POWER

Warren Anderson | Ph: Andrew Rams | facebook.com/andrewramsphotography

STYLE & POWER

Brian Wise | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

STYLE & POWER

Uknown | Ph: Neal Miyake

STYLE & POWER

Amaury Lavernhe | Ph: Sacha Specker

STYLE & POWER

Trevor Kam | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

STYLE & POWER

Jerett Lau | Ph: Clark Little | clarklittle.com

STYLE & POWER

Antonio Cardoso | Ph: Cayetano Gonzรกlez

STYLE & POWER

Will Weaver | Ph: Shaun Harada | www.facebook.com/shaun.harada

STYLE & POWER

Alan Lamphere | Ph: James Kaeka Jr. | www.facebook.com/james.kaeka

STYLE & POWER

SEABASS | PH: GAVIN SHIGESATO

STYLE & POWER

IVY CERRONE | PH: MIKE CERRONE

STYLE & POWER

Paul Benco | PH: Cayetano Gonzรกlez

STYLE & POWER

chris schlegel | ph: Brandon Obermeier

STYLE & POWER

Jeff Hubbard | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

STYLE & POWER

Javier Ceballos | Ph: Jes煤s de Le贸n

STYLE & POWER

Dave Hubbard | Ph: Maurice Aubuchon | facebook.com/aubuchonimagery

STYLE & POWER

O’a Hind | PH: Mike Cerrone

T h e

m i n d

i s

e v e r y t h i n g .

W h a t

SURGEVERSION9.0 | RESPECT IS EVERYTHING

y o u

t h i n k

y o u

b e c o m e .

Elliot Morales | PH: Luis Glez