Surphang Magazine Issue 41 by Surphang Magazine

Surphang Magazine Issue 41

Proudly presents

The Pro Show

Into the Green Room!

Champ Chats Sky High Kei!

The Surf City Open

Wilson to Win...

HOT SHOTS DOWN UNDER

Surphang Magazine

01 - SM

'A Work of Heart!' If something's worth doing, it's worth doing well. Before you know it, that something can become a good idea, that idea can blossom into a meaningful goal and that goal can develop into a lifelong project, a labour of love, ultimately a work of heart! That's how it is for the surfers in this issue of SURPHANG who have all dedicated their lives to being the best that they can be. It's also how it is for the technical crew and their wizardry with the aim of perfecting inland waves at the newly opened Wavegarden in Wales. It all takes dedication, hard work and persistence and yes there'll be some disappointment and failure along the way but all that sacrifice will one day be paid back by success and when it comes it'll all be worth it!

Julian Wilson working the media attention! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

SM - 02

03 - SM

Surphang Magazine

Magazine Editor: Stuart Gaston Contributing Photographers: Lewis Arnold, Craig Bessant, Izac Carracher, Paul Carpenter, Riley Edwards, Oliver Emsallem, Miguel Fernandinho, Ross Gregory, Mkie Healey, Michael Kellerman, Warwick Martin, Dave Muir, Alex McGeown, Rubin Morris, Jonathan Payne, Greg Rebejac, Peter Singlehurst, Megan Vibert, Joanne O'Shaughnessy & Chuck@Surf-Shot Staff Photographer: Stuart Gaston

Send any photographic submissions for future issues of the magazine to: surphangmagazine@ymail.com

Cover Shot: Jordy Lawler launching! Photo: Michael Kellerman

Kei Kobayashi getting arty at Huntington! Photo: Mike Healey

SM - 04

This Issue's Features

The Pro Show Champ Chats Surphalosophy Wilson to Win...

Sky High Kei!

Into the Green Room!

Julian Wilson's made a good few finals so far this year... so will a win be coming his way? Could he even take the Tour?

Kei Kobayashi has been soaring to success recently so we caught up with this multiple champion title holding surfer for a quick chat!

Kirra Green has a passion for surfing, travelling and healthy living so let's join him for a journey into the green room!

05 - SM

Now that's the art of night surfing! Photo: Greg Rebejac

ThisIssue

UNDER DOWN SHOTS HOT

The Wavegarden wait is over! Yes the first chance to surf this inland wave lies in Wales and we were there to check it out!

HOT SHOTS DOWN UNDER

The Surf City Open

Australia is always brimming full with upcoming talent so here's our pick of ten from the latest pot of 'Hot Shots' from down under!

Huntington Beach has been a hive of action for the WSL's mid year extravaganza, the US Open of Surfing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; here's a run down!

Agents of Eighteen We wrap up our series of summer wettie reviews in this 'Hot Wots' look at what's hot in the world of wetsuit wonders and innovations!

THE GALLERY SM - 06

Welcome to

The Pro Show Wilson to win... Photos: Chuck@Surf-shot.com, Izac Carracher, Alex McGeown & Steve@SunnyCoastKlips; Words: Stu Gaston

07 - SM Julian Wilson whacks into a righthand carve! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheProShow Julian Wilson's been on everybody's radar for years now, solidifying his place as a surfer to be reckoned with following the release of his own film, 'Scratching the Surface'. He's made a good few finals so far this year... so will a win be coming his way? Could he even take the Tour? Time to take a closer look at this Pro!

SM - 08

Wilson to Win...

09 - SM Julian Wilson winds round a bottom turn! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheProShow

Born on 8th December 1988, Julian Wilson grew up in a family of surfers on the Sunshine Coast and so, spending all his childhood years riding waves, it was no surprise that he quickly scooped national titles in both longboarding and shortboarding. It was with the latter however that Julian truly honed his skills, taking numerous Pro Junior victories on his way to the ISA World Junior Champion Title in 2006. Equally talented at free surfing as in competition, Julian became the youngest-ever winner of the Surfer Poll award for Best Performance of the Year, which he clocked for his part in Quiksilverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Young Guns III. He then followed this up with the release of his own signature film, 'Scratching the Surface' in 2010, the result of taking a year out from the competitive field.

SM - 10

Wilson to Win...

11 - SM Julian Wilson wends his way through a Pipeline pit! Photo: Izac Carracher

TheProShow Once that was all wrapped up, Julian focused back on his competition side again. After a couple of years finding his feet on the tour, he won the 2012 US Open, the Breaka Burleigh Pro and the Rip Curl Pro, Portugal before going on to take victory at the Mr Price Pro in Ballito, and collecting an array of 2nd and 3rd places in 2013, boosting him to 6th on the WCT Rankings, his highest so far to date.

Julian had a less successful season in 2014 until arriving in Hawaii where he turned it all around, landing a win at the Billabong Pipeline Masters and taking the Vans Triple Crown.

SM - 12

Wilson to Win...

13 - SM Julian Wilson has wings! Photo: Steve Maloney

TheProShow So a win at the end of last year's season put Julian in a good frame of mind to take on his fifth year on tour and so far so good...

Just down the road from home, a second place finish at the Quiksilver Pro on the Gold Coast got 2015 off to a good start for Julian.

SM - 14

Wilson to Win...

15 - SM Julian Wilson bottom turns off his backhand! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheProShow A 5th at the Drug Aware Pro at Margaret River kept his hopes alight until another 2nd place finish in Fiji rekindled the dream of another CT event win on its way...

SM - 16

Wilson to Win...

17 - SM Julian Wilson works the righthander at J-Bay! Photo: Alex McGeown

TheProShow And so the world of surfing arrived in South Africa for the J-Bay Open. Julian was in form and a series of high scoring heats saw him through to his third final of the season...

Unfortunately someone forgot to tell a local that three's a crowd and so before Fanning ended up as small fry, the final was out of the water, joint second awarded and the points shared. The rest, history.

SM - 18

Wilson to Win...

19 - SM

Julian Wilson whirls one round in the air! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheProShow We'll never know if Julian or Mick would have won that final. But one thing's for sure... Julian is most likely hungrier for an event win than he has been in a while. So now sitting 3rd on the World Tour rankings, we'll be eagerly watching how the second half of the competitive year pans out and whether Wilson can take a win and who knows maybe the tour itself...

SM - 20

Champ Chats Sky High Kei! Photos: Joanne O'Shaughnessy, Mike Heaely & Chuck@Surf-shot.com Words: Stu Gaston

21 - SM Kei Kobayashi takes that tail sky high! Photo: Joanne O'Shaughnessy

ChampChats Kei Kobayashi has been soaring to success recently, taking double wins at the WSA West Coast Regional Championships so we caught up with this multiple champion title holding surfer for a quick chat!

SM - 22

Sky High Kei!

23 - SM Kei Kobayashi keeps pointing in the right direction! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

ChampChats

Name: Kei Kobayashi Age: 16 Years surfing: My whole life Where you live: San Clemente Sponsors: O'Neill, Etnies, Lost Surfboards, Banzai Bowls, OAM, Luvsurf, DSC, Fu Wax Local break/s: Trestles Favourite surfer? John John Florence Favourite place to surf? Lowers Favourite surf movie? Done Favourite surf trick? Carve Favourite board? Lost Surfboards

SM - 24

Sky High Kei!

25 - SM Kei Kobayashi having fun fins free style! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

ChampChats

What first got you into surfing? My dad teaching me Who in surfing inspires you most? My dad he teaches me something new everyday When and how did you become sponsored? I got sponsored when I won the Nationals in the Open Mini Groms in 2009 What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why? Competition surfing because I like competing way better; I love free surfing too!

SM - 26

Sky High Kei!

27 - SM Kei Kobayashi grabs some air time! Photo: Mike Healey

ChampChats

Now the past couple of years have seen you performing well on the competitive circuit, though becoming both the current Under 18 and Open Men's West Coast Regional Champion recently must have been a highlight. How was that contest for you then? I was super stoked to take down double wins at Churches for the Surf WSA West Coast Championships. The waves were good all weekend and hanging out with all my good friends made the wins all the more special! You had to overcome some solid surfing from your contenders. How do you rate your surfing peers from around California at the moment? I'm friends with most if not all of the competitors I surf against and it brings out the best of us. It was one of the best moments so far this year. Getting to surf a man on man final with one of my best friends Griffin Colapinto was one to remember!

SM - 28

Sky High Kei!

29 - SM Kei Kobayashi takes to the air again! Photo: Mike Healey

ChampChats

So which of them did you least want to be drawn up against in a heat and why? Probably Griffin and we ended up surfing the final against each other but we're both great friends so we wanted just to have fun! And does being a champion go down as your best victory to date? My best victory is still the Open Mini Groms in 2009 Now you're a champ then, what's next? What are your goals for the year to come? To win some Pro Juniors and get on the travel team for USA team

SM - 30

Sky High Kei!

31 - SM Kei Kobayashi keeps power in his rail work too! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

ChampChats

Now you're already from California with some top quality waves like Trestles right on your doorstep! So how would you rate your local spots? Probably Lowers is the best wave in the world in my eyes! Where else around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? Brazil was one really fun spot to surf, really great people and culture. And when and where has your best surf session been then? I still have some of my best sessions around home But what's been the worst wipeout of your life? Probably Pipeline, going over the falls at Backdoor sucks

SM - 32

Sky High Kei!

33 - SM Kei Kobayashi keeps powering through all the right moves! Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

ChampChats

So what about future plans? Where are you heading with your surfing? Well my main focus is going to be the U.S. Open coming up this week and I have been focusing on the Pro Junior events and NSSA events for now. But I want to be on the WCT one day! And what about training? How do you keep on top of fitness and keep on pushing your surfing? I train at DSC with all the boys and it's been working so great for me. I train with Kevyn and Scotty and they work me when I'm in there Finally, where do you see yourself in five to ten years time? Hopefully the WCT. That would be so awesome, it's one of my biggest goals in life!

SM - 34

Surphalosophy

Into the Green Room! Photos: Ross Gregory; Words: Stu Gaston

35 - SM Kirra Green sneaks into a Sunshine Coast green room! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy

Kirra Green has a keen passion for surfing, travelling and healthy living - we like the sound of that so let's join him to find out about his journey into the green room!

SM - 36

Into the Green Room!

37 - SM Kirra Green loving the laybacks! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy

Name: Kirra Green Age: 18 Years surfing: 10 years Where you live: Yaroomba, Sunshine Coast Sponsors: Salty Crew, Agent Eighteen, 4D Surfboards, Lets Party Traction, Compound Second hand Surf and Espresso, Coolum Surf, Tropical Doom, Arnette, Pure Sports Hydration, Pro Standard and Hero Tech Local break/s: Yaroomba Favourite surfer? Andy Irons Favourite place to surf? Nipussy, Mentawai islands and Keramas Favourite surf movie? Modern Collective Favourite surf trick? Lay back Carve Favourite board? 5'10 Shortboard SM - 38

Into the Green Room!

39 - SM Kirra kicking that tail high! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy

What first got you into surfing? First thing that got me into surfing would have to be my dad. He would wake me up every morning and take me surfing no matter what. Who in surfing inspires you most? Kelly Slater for sure! How big a part does surfing play in your life? A huge part! Everything I do in life is based around surfing or the ocean. When and how did you become sponsored? I used to walk into Coolum surf, which is my local surf shop, and look around for hours and started taking huge interest in the shop. Then one day when I was in grade 7, the manager of Coolum surf at the time came to my school and announced on a whole school assembly that they wanted me apart of their team. What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why? I've been competing for years and absolutely love doing it and it has taken me all over the world but right now I love just travelling around free surfing and making films with my best mates.

SM - 40

Into the Green Room!

41 - SM

Kirra kicking out an impressive layback spray fan! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy

Now the past few years have seen you performing consistently well at all levels. Earlier this year you won the Open Men's final at the HIF Agnes Water Surfing Festival and at the end of last year you won the Under 18 division at the second event of the Queensland State Junior Titles on the Sunshine Coast. So talk us through your contest season and the highs and lows that lead to your results. My contest season consists of a lot of traveling and training. It was hard being a competitive surfer and trying to finish school at the same time. The school I graduated from was so good for that because they supported me a lot and helped me pursue my surfing career. Winning the State title event on the Sunshine Coast was a massive confidence boost. Before that win, I had a lot of 2nd and 3rd round losses which made it hard for me to want to keep going but I pushed through that and came away with a win finally. Going into Agnes Waters I knew that it would be tough to win the Opens considering I was only 17 but I kept focused which I have been training really hard to do and it payed off. Ended up with three 9 Point rides in the final!

SM - 42

Into the Green Room!

43 - SM

Kirra Green grinding out some more of his aerial repertoire! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy

I imagine you have to overcome some solid surfing from your contenders. How do you rate your surfing peers in Australia at the moment then? I honestly don't even know where to start! There's a crew my age that are pushing the limits of surfing to new grounds each and every day which makes it hard because I have to try and keep up! You've been surfing against these guys most of your competitive life. There must be different levels of camaraderie or rivalry in the ranks. How does this affect the way you surf in a heat? Oh I've definitely had rivalries with guys growing up! I can zone it out but I know it's always in the back of my mind which sometimes is difficult but you have to deal with it. So which of them did you least want to be drawn up against in a heat and why? I'd have to say Kai Hing, I grew up competing against him and I learnt growing up that no matter what the waves are like he can pull out a 9 point ride whenever he wants. So would have to be the scariest guy to draw in a heat!

SM - 44

Into the Green Room!

45 - SM

Kirra always keen to be in the green room! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy Now you've had various great results recently, so what's your goal now for the year to come? For the rest of this year I'm planning just to train and travel, maybe film a few clips but not really compete. Next year is the year that I'll jump on the Qualifying Series and give it a good crack. Main goal for this year is put some mental clips together. What about training then? How do you keep on top of fitness and keep on pushing your surfing? I train with Robbie Sherwell once a week and also his son Josh twice a week. Besides that I do a bit of running and the occasionally do some stuff at the gym work which helps me stay on top of my fitness. You're also very much into promoting a healthy lifestyle with your own 'Green Room Goodies' brand that makes tasty treats using organic ingredients. So what inpsired you to try and start up your own business? This may sound weird but it was actually my ex-girlfriend's mum Lorna that gave me the idea to start it all. I would make the treats are her place and we thought one day that I should start a business out of it because everyone wanted some, so I did. I just love that I can create a treat that is actually healthy but to be honest doesn't taste it at all, which a lot of people now days are looking for.

'For the rest of this year I'm planning just to train and travel' SM - 46

Into the Green Room!

47 - SM

Kirra Green soars over the Sunshine Coast! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy Now you're from the Sunshine Coast and have no doubt surfed some epic breaks over in Queensland. How would you rate those classic spots then? The Sunsine Coast is pretty epic to be honest. You hear a lot of guys say that it never pumps but when there's a bit of swell and the points up at Noosa start to work then it's all time. Who doesn't want to surf a right hand point break that runs for up to 600 meters on its day. Other than the points, we have a lot of beach breaks where you can find a peak to yourself which is cool because places like the Gold Coast you can never do that. So where else around the world have you been lucky enough to surf so far? I've surfed all around Bali a few times, been to New Zealand, Mentawaii's as well And when and where has your best surf session been then? Far out that's a tough one to answer! Probably Keramas, I had it 3-4 foot with 2 guys out all day which was insane. But what about the worst wipeout of your life so far? Worst wipeout actually happened at my local point break, Point Perry. I got hit by backwash inside the barrel and got thrown between a few rocks, my leg rope ended up getting caught under one and I had a 3 wave hold down. By the time I came up there would have been 5 guys off their boards around me swimming down trying to grab me. Has to be the scariest moment of my life.

SM - 48

Into the Green Room!

49 - SM

Kirra keeping up the good work! Photo: Ross Gregory

surphalosophy

So what about future plans for travelling? Where do you want to head to and surf? I'm off to Tahiti in a few weeks which has been a dream of mine so I'm looking forward to that. Other than that I would love to head over to Sri Lanka for a surf trip or even do a road trip down the US. Finally then, what about your future? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years time? I see myself traveling the world surfing in all honesty. I don't know if it's being a competitive surfer or if it's just free surfing and making a living out of it. But I know it will involve surfing as my career.

SM - 50

Photos: Stu Gaston, Paul Carpenter & Jonathan Payne; Words: Stu Gaston

51 - SM The wait is over... the Welsh Wavegarden is here! Photo: Courtesy of Surf Snowdonia

surphangaway

The Wavegarden wait is over! Yes the first chance for surfers of any ability to actually surf this inland wave now lies in Wales. So is it worth all the hype? Is it as good as surfing a real wave? Well you'll have to make you own minds up on that, just like we did when we ventured up to the depths of North Wales to sample Surf Snowdonia for ourselves!

SM - 52

53 - SM

Logan Nicol nailing the long rides of man-made waves! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

Surf Snowdonia offically opened to the public at the start of August 2015 but for those lucky few of us, the media and VIP launch day on Friday 31st July gave the first chance to see the world's first public man-made wave facility in action! With my hand-picked trusty crew of six upcoming surfers from England and Wales, we made the long jounrey northwards to the idyllic and exceedingly picturesque area of Snowdonia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not a journey for the faint hearted though and it certainly beat any drive searching for that perfect wave that I've ever made before! Still on our arrival in the tiny village of Dolgarrog, as the quaint little row of cottages continued on our right, the trees paused on the left to give way to a truly outstanding sight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a shoulder high wave flowing along a calm and tranquil lagoon. The boys' faces said it all!

SM - 54

55 - SM Oli Adams was all over the Wavegarden on the day before the launch! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

O'Neill team riders, Jake Sage and George Carpenter had arrived first and were awe struck by the wave wending its way through the Welsh countryside. For Logan Nicol, member of the Welsh Junior Surfing Team, the sight of the wave was too much and the froth levels were soon spilling over as they watched Oli Adams make the 20 second ride on such a perfectly shaped wave. Jake was soon waxing up his board in anticipation of trying it out for themselves the next day.

And so with the arrival of the others, Max Payne, O'Neill rider and Welsh Junior Team member, Isaac Marshall, former Under 16 English Champion and Vissla rider Connor Stratton-Darling, the wait to surf the Wavegarden was almost over... SM - 56

57 - SM The early morning serenity of Surf Snowdonia's lagoon! Photo: Paul Carpenter

surphangaway After a pleasant enough night in the onsite camping pods, awaking to the sight of a millpond is not normally a good start to a surf trip but these six were frothing, Jake was still waxing his boards!

And so with each of them fuelled by a hearty breakfast in the main Hub building, they were soon suited up and ready for their three hour stinit on the lagoon. They all made their various ways around the beach-like meshing that surrounded the cool, brown fresh water lagoon with the keen younger groms soon sat out on their boards, eagerly awaiting the wave to crank into action...

SM - 58

Nine o'clock came and the first waves of Surf Snowdonia's launch day were underway. Sure they're not quite as billed yet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; certainly no six foot barrelling waves in sight and it definitely wasn't running at a wave a minute so the guys had quite a long wait between their turn to catch a wave. Yet here we were on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park watching pretty perfect man-made waves trundle up and down this serene fresh water lagoon and of course for our six surfers, the chance to surf the first inland public wave of its kind! So after a quick briefing on where best to sit to be able to catch this quickly moving wall of water, Logan, Jake, George, Max, Connor and Isaac were all on it like a proverbial car bonnet!

59 - SM

The Wavegarden whirls into action! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 60

Each taking it in turns on the South side of the wave, the crew took their first go to get used to catching this fast moving wall of water that, being propelled by a snow plough-like central system, was actually quite different to catching and riding an ocean wave â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just the fact of surfing towards a metal meshed pier took some time to get their heads around! Jake seemed to take to it quite quickly, after all that board preparation, and certainly his new 5'3 Fishbone from J.Leon Shaoes looked to be working well both with the wave and under Jake's guiding judegement. He was very quickly getting a good number of turns out of the wave off his backhand.

61 - SM

Jake Sage stamping his backhand on this inland wave! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 62

Logan, who was by far the most active of the lot, looked equally comfortable on the wave and was soon loving the long ride on the rights that gave him the chance to really work his forehand attack, impressing any onlookers!

63 - SM

Logan Nicol negotiates a reeling righthander! Photo: Paul Carpenter

surphangaway

SM - 64

Meanwhile Max was making the most of the lefts. Similarly to Logan, he was really working the length of the ride with some good top to bottom surfing. It was clear to see these two had their competition heads on (with their next Welsh Junior Team training for the World Juniors in California just the next day) and the potential of the Wavegarden to kick out consistent waves was apparent â&#x20AC;&#x201C; surely a real bonus for training elite surfers of the future!

65 - SM

Max Payne about to pummel this lefthand lip! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 66

Talking of surfers of the future, it was great to see our youngest surfer on the trip holding his own! As is so often the case, the young guns are keen to lead the way and 15 year old George Carpenter was no different, quickly getting to grips with the speed of the wave and how best to catch it and then milk the ride for all it was worth. He certainly did his local Sennen surf scene proud!

67 - SM

George Carpenter coming through a bottom turn! Photo: Paul Carpenter

surphangaway

SM - 68

We had four of the Sennen crew representing at Surf Snowdonia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; former Under 16 English Champion Isaac Marshall was an early standout and his solid surfing style demonstrated how he can turn up randomly at contests and make it straight through to the finals or even end up winning!

69 - SM

Isaac Marshall making the most of the left! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 70

To complete our crew, Connor had also made the journey all the way up from Penzance to join us for this special launch day. As the oldest of the crew, Connor also had the cruisiest style, borne from many summers down at Sennen, and once he'd sampled the speed of this 'alien' inland wave, he soon found a form of compromise that enabled him to cruise comfortably down the line and throw in some of his moves whilst at the same time maintain the momentum needed to keep with the wave itself. A tall order which they all got to grips with as the morning went on and no doubt, with more waves would all have soon mastered!

71 - SM

Connor Stratton-Darling driving down the lefthander! Photo: Paul Carpenter

surphangaway

So having all had a go during the morning's launch, we sat our six surfers down and asked each and everyone one of them to tell us all about their usual surfing lives and how they felt about their first inland wave experience.

SM - 72

Surf Snowdonia

73 - SM Jake Sage banks another one on his backhand! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

Name: Jake Sage Age: 18 Years surfing: 8 Where you live: Penzance Sponsors: O'Neill, Natural Balance, Sennen Surfing Centre, Butta Wax, J.Leon Shapes Local break/s: Sennen, Porthleven, Praa Sands Favourite surfer? John John Florence Favourite place to surf? Sennen Favourite surf movie? Bobby Martinez Mix Tape Favourite surf trick? Back hand smash Favourite board? 5'3 Fishbone J.Leon

SM - 74

Surf Snowdonia

75 - SM Jake Sage sends out an impreesive backhand spray fan! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

What first got you into surfing? I was always down the beach as a kid and after getting my first board when I was 7, Sennen Surfing Centre really helped me develop my surfing. Who in surfing inspires you most? Close friends and old school stylers When and how did you become sponsored? Two years ago by O'Neill and it all progressed from there What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far? As I've never done comps I've just been working to develop my free surfing and I'm now at a stage where my sponsors are giving me the support and development to look into a future career. So right now I'm proud to be able to be supported by brands like that. Where around the world have been lucky enough to travel to surf? France, Morocco, Spain Portugal

you and and

When and where was your best surf session? Porthleven, mid winter last year

SM - 76

Surf Snowdonia

77 - SM Jake Sage sees another lip to whack! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

Now have you ever surfed in a wave park before? Well I have as of last week! So what were you thinking before this inland surfing session? I didn't think it would be as big or as fast as it was so I was pretty impressed! How does the Wavegarden compare to surfing at your local break? Well you don't have to rely on tides or swell! Now there's talk of the UK getting more inland waves. Would they be worth the journey? Yes! We travelled for 8 hours and it's been sick! Having surfed the Wavegarden, what's your overall verdict then? It's good but needs less people at a time and more waves per session. So in your opinion, with more Wavegardens in the UK on the horizon and talk of Kelly Slater opening his own wavepark, is there a future in riding artificial waves? The ocean will always be better but it's always good to have other options!

SM - 78

Surf Snowdonia

79 - SM Logan Nicol knocks out a backhand lip attack! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

Name: Logan Nicol Age: 16 Nickname: Bogey Years surfing: 6 Where you live: Penarth, Wales Sponsors: O'Shea, Celtic Connection Surfboards Local break/s: The Vale, Porthcawl Favourite surfer? Mason Ho Favourite place to surf? Hawaii Favourite surf movie? Kelly Slater in B&w Favourite surf trick? Anything big! Favourite board? 5'9 Celtic Connection

SM - 80

Surf Snowdonia

81 - SM Logan Nicol negotiates a backhand bottom turn! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

What first got you into surfing? My dad taking me one summer Who in surfing inspires you most? Dane Reynolds When and how did you become sponsored? When I was 14, through a local surf shop and when I was 15, after being picked up by Celtic at a contest What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far? Making the U18s final at the Welsh Nationals Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? Hawaii, France, Portugal, the Canaries and the list goes on... When and where was your best surf session? A secret Vale reef when I was 14

SM - 82

Surf Snowdonia

83 - SM Logan Nicol looks to the lip! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

Now have you ever surfed in a wave park before? No, never, this was my first time So what were you thinking before this inland surfing session? I was a bit sceptical at first but was super excited to get the chance! How does the Wavegarden compare to surfing at your local break? It's just a totally different feeling! No-one drops in on you and it's just so perfect! Now there's talk of the UK getting more inland waves. Would they be worth the journey? Yes definitely! On the flat days, I can imagine they'll be worth the journey Having surfed the Wavegarden, what's your overall verdict then? It's awesome! So in your opinion, with more Wavegardens in the UK on the horizon and talk of Kelly Slater opening his own wavepark, is there a future in riding artificial waves? Yes definitely, the sky is the limit when it comes to man-made waves!

SM - 84

Surf Snowdonia

85 - SM Max Payne pushes round a big bottom turn! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

Name: Max Payne Age: 17 Years surfing: 10 Where you live: Wadebridge Sponsors: O'Neill, Bunty Surfboards, Butta Wax, Ann's Cottage Local break/s: Polzeath Favourite surfer? Dane Reynolds Favourite place to surf? Polzeath Favourite surf movie? Lost Atlas Favourite surf trick? Layback Favourite board? 6'0 Bunty

SM - 86

Surf Snowdonia

87 - SM Max Payne's backhand making its mark! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway What first got you into surfing? I started standing up on a bodyboard when I was about 7 and so tried a surfboard and it went on from there Who in surfing inspires you most? Mason Ho When and how did you become sponsored? When I was 11, the team manager from Quiksilver watched me surf at a contest in Devon. Then after Newquay Boardmasters in 2013, O'Neill got in touch and fixed me up with them. What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far? I can't pick one event â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I've won the Cornish and British Schools events I was also champion of Wales and won the Rip Curl Gromsearch, Elusive and Jesus Classic 2014 titles too - so I would have to say I am most proud to get help and support from my family and sponsors to help me do something I love. Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? France, Holland, Spain, Portugal, Fuerteventura, Panama, Nicaragua, Ecuador and Morocco When and where was your best surf session? Polzeath about a month ago. It was a light onshore wind and overhead Now have you ever surfed in a wave park before? No, I've seen videos of it but never thought I'd surf it!

SM - 88

Surf Snowdonia

89 - SM Max Payne making the most of surfing this inland wave! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

So what were you thinking before this inland surfing session? I really had no idea what the wave was going to be like. I heard it was fresh water so I did think that would make a big difference! How does the Wavegarden compare to surfing at your local break? It's definitely more consistent than surfing Polzeath. I still prefer surfing in the ocean but is is definitely a good experience! Now there's talk of the UK getting more inland waves. Would they be worth the journey? Yeah definitely if there are flatspells, then it would be worth it! Having surfed the Wavegarden, what's your overall verdict then? It's an amazing experience and I would recommend trying it So in your opinion, with more Wavegardens in the UK on the horizon and talk of Kelly Slater opening his own wavepark, is there a future in riding artificial waves? Yeah but I think it will never be the same as surfing real waves!

SM - 90

Surf Snowdonia

91 - SM George Carpenter caning the lefthander! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

Name: George Carpenter Age: 15 Nickname: Georgey Years surfing: 5 Where you live: Sennen Sponsors: O'Neill, Butta Wax, BOS Surfboards, Nectar Sunglasses and Sennen Surfing Centre Local break/s: Sennen and Gwenver Favourite surfer? Seb Smart Favourite place to surf? Sennen Favourite surf movie? Deeper Shade of Blue Favourite surf trick? Fins out Favourite board? SM - 92 F2 BOS Model

Surf Snowdonia

93 - SM George Carpenter going into a bottom turn on the left! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

What first got you into surfing? Going to the beach with my parents all the time Who in surfing inspires you most? The older surfers who are shredding at Sennen When and how did you become sponsored? Through Dave Muir at Sennen Surfing Centre because he is a scout for O'Neill and hooked me up with them What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far? Becoming sponsored by O'Neill Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? I have been to Fuerteventura and surfed North Track in Corralejo When and where was your best surf session? A session at Gwenver last year Now have you ever surfed in a wave park before? Yes, well I have now!

SM - 94

Surf Snowdonia

95 - SM George Carpenter keeping it top to bottom! Photo: Paul Carpenter

surphangaway

So what were you thinking before this inland surfing session? I was wondering whether it would be as good as I'd heard it could be And how does the Wavegarden compare to surfing at your local break? Very similar in some ways but quite different in others Now there's talk of the UK getting more inland waves. Would they be worth the journey? If they improved the amount of waves in an hour then it would! Having surfed the Wavegarden, what's your overall verdict then? Really fun and great for practising your up and down surfing So in your opinion, with more Wavegardens in the UK on the horizon and talk of Kelly Slater opening his own wavepark, is there a future in riding artificial waves? Yes but I hope it doesn't ever overtake surfing in the sea!

SM - 96

Surf Snowdonia

97 - SM Isaac Marshall making some big moves! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway

Name: Isaac Marshall Age: 17 Nickname: Ice man Years surfing: About 13 years Where you live: Mousehole, Cornwall Sponsors: J.Leon Shapes Local break/s: Gwenver and Sennen Favourite surfer? Kelly Slater Favourite place to surf? Gwenver Favourite surf movie? Big Wednesday Favourite surf trick? Barrel Favourite board? My J.Leon

SM - 98

Surf Snowdonia

99 - SM Isaac Marshall milking the left for all its worth! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

What first got you into surfing? My dad Who in surfing inspires you most? Kelly Slater When and how did you become sponsored? About 4 months ago, I approached Juan Leon for a board and he offered me deals from then on in â&#x20AC;&#x201C; absolute legend! What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far? Winning the English Under 16 Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? Azores, Morocco, France, Spain and Wales! When and where was your best surf session? Gwenvor, when I was about 15, long lefts and rights, all the boys were out, and everyone was ripping. Now have you ever surfed in a wave park before? Well I've now surfed the Snowdonia Wavegarden

SM - 100

Surf Snowdonia

101 - SM Isaac Marshall launching off the lip! Photo: Jonathan Payne

surphangaway So what were you thinking before this inland surfing session? I was exited to get there and have a surf, I honestly didn't know what to expect. How does the Wavegarden compare to surfing at your local break? To be honest you can't beat actual surfing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the full experience of surfing needs the ocean. I think it's great for its position (inland & no waves) but if I had to choose, I wouldn't have to think twice before choosing my local break! Now there's talk of the UK getting more inland waves. Would they be worth the journey? Well the Wavegarden is still an amazing idea and a great help for the growth and popularity of the surfing industry. It's worth the drive for many from cities or curious surfers, however I wouldn't bother when I have waves nearby! Having surfed the Wavegarden, what's your overall verdict then? It was fun, however I do think that it takes away a surfer's natural instinct, in terms of reading waves, judging certain sections, picking waves. I became addicted to surfing because of the combination of all its elements, and I didn't get that same feeling at the Wavegarden. So in your opinion, with more Wavegardens in the UK on the horizon and talk of Kelly Slater opening his own wavepark, is there a future in riding artificial waves? I was glad to be given the opportunity to ride it and I guess for people who don't live anywhere near the surf, it offers a chance to give it a go but at the end of the day, it's still a long way from real surfing in the ocean. SM - 102

Surf Snowdonia

103 - SM Connor Stratton-Darling drives into a bottom turn on his backhand! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

Name: Connor Stratton-Darling Age: 19 Years surfing: 4 Where you live: Penzance Sponsors: Vissla Local break/s: Sennen Favourite surfer? Larry Bertlemann Favourite place to surf? Sennen Favourite surf movie? Cluster Favourite surf trick? Foam Climb Favourite board? Juan Leon makes good boards

SM - 104

Surf Snowdonia

105 - SM Connor Stratton-Darling doing his thing! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway What first got you into surfing? The boys at Sennen Surfing Centre said I had to start surfing while I was on my work experience. Who in surfing inspires you most? All the local boys, James Parry, Seb & Sam Smart and a whole bunch of other people who are stylish. When and how did you become sponsored? Just got picked up by Vissla after I helped run their wetsuit feature in a previous issue and Stuart Gaston put in a good word for me. What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far? There isn't a singular moment that I am particularly proud of, there's just little things like getting acknowledgement praise or encouragement from more advanced surfers which inspires me to strive for more. Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf? France, it was hot and I got to wear my short leg long arm and surf good waves and eat baguettes with cheese that smelt in it. When and where was your best surf session? Sennen about three years ago, it was big and offshore, I only made about three waves but everyone was getting some good ones. Now have you ever surfed in a wave park before? No, not until now!

SM - 106

Surf Snowdonia

107 - SM Connor coming through another big bottom turn! Photo: Paul Carpenter

surphangaway So what were you thinking before this inland surfing session? That it could be fun but wouldn't beat the real surfing experience of being in the ocean. How does the Wavegarden compare to surfing at your local break? You can't beat surfing at your local beach. Firstly you know everyone, you know how the wave works and you feel comfortable. Whereas the Wave garden felt alien, like something completely different and unknown â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was an entirely new experience for me. Now there's talk of the UK getting more inland waves. Would they be worth the journey? If there were to be a Wavegarden a few miles up the road then it would definitely be worth the trip. However today I traveled for eight and a half hours to surf 3 waves, which were fun, but I had to wait a long time between waves. Having surfed the Wavegarden, what's your overall verdict then? There are both positives and negatives to my experience: it's a super fun idea as you can effectively surf the same wave over and over again to perfect a certain manoeuvre. They say it can produce a wave every minute, however we were all stood around waiting a lot longer than that as it was still being tested. I personally live in a part of the UK which gets a lot of waves, so for me an eight hour trip is a bit far and not worth my time, however if you are looking for a different experience and live somewhere closer then I would certainly recommend it. Like anything new that is the first of its kind, there are going to be alterations needed however I believe that if they hammer out these few kinks in the early stages then they will have a very successful and prosperous Wavegarden in the UK. It is also a good gateway for introducing people into surfing who wouldn't usually get the opportunity. I went on it not knowing what to expect, however I have been spoilt as I live in a very good location for beaches and other surf spots. I believe anything that will get people active and becoming involved in sport can only be positive!

SM - 108

Surf Snowdonia

109 - SM Connor Stratton-Darling drives off the lip! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway So in your opinion, with more Wavegardens in the UK on the horizon and talk of Kelly Slater opening his own wavepark, is there a future in riding artificial waves? You have to look at it in the same way as anything up and coming. For example there are mountains with ski resorts where you can go and ski like for surfing you can go to the beach and surf a wave and get the real and true surfing experience. You can also go to an artificial snow dome or wave garden and get a taste, but in no way does it give you the same experience, instead it allows you to experience something fun and different. I feel that Wavegardens should be made in the cities so people who never have the chance to surf can have a go and do something different from conventional sports such as football and rugby. Everyone has turned their eye on the possibility of introducing the sport of surfing into the Olympics. I don't think this should be the reason behind investment into artificial wave technology; it should instead be to create a positive experience, which will allow surfing to be introduced and enjoyed within a wider audience. In regards to the Olympics argument, I believe you have to analyse other sports. The nature of surfing as a sport is somewhat a niche sport, as at the moment only countries with coasts which pick up swell could partake at the level that would be desired. Therefore certain countries would dominate such as USA, Brazil and Australia. I think you have to look at other sports with similar problems such as skiing and see how they overcome these problems and use that knowledge to their advantage. SM - 110

Whatever your perspective, what Surf Snowdonia have achieved is going to have a huge impact on the world of surfing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; if nothing else it has re-ignited the whole debate of whether man-made waves can live up to the quality of their ocean bearing brethren. For now though the stoked groms amongst us were keen to keep catching waves, Logan even catching the eye of ITV who quickly strapped their Go-Pro to his chest in a bid to gaain the surfer's perspective for their viewers.

111 - SM

Logan locks into another righthander! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 112

Jake too was more than happy to make the most of this one-off opportunity, surfing for an extra hour into the afternoon with Max and Logan when the frequency of the wave seemed to increase, giving both them and us a chance to see its full potential

113 - SM

Jake jams into a right too! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 114

115 - SM

Max Payne just keeps pummelling those lefts! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 116

And at the end of the day, that's what it all comes down to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; seeing the Wavegarden run at its full potential and certainly, while the powers that be were claiming it was still 'being commissioned', no-one as yet has actually seen this wonder of inland waves really do its thing! So until then, others may try to analyse what they have ridden or seen, but as far as we're concerned the jury's still out. What we do know is that our crew of frothing upcoming surfers had a great time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Logan's even booked back in for another session later this month already! Hopefully by then, he'll be able to shed a little more light on the true future that lies ahead for the Wavegarden at Surf Snowdonia.

117 - SM

Jake Sage brings out his backhand one last time! Photo: Stu Gaston

surphangaway

SM - 118

HOT SHOTS

DOWN UNDER

Photos: Craig Bessant, Riley Edwards, Oliver Emsallem, Michael Kellerman, Warwick Martin & Rubin Morris Words: stu gaston

119 - SM

Jackson Coffey in a Gold Coast green room! Photo: Craig Bessant

HotShots

Australia is always brimming full with upcoming talent so here's our pick of ten from the latest pot of 'Hot Shots' from down under!

SM - 120