Up Suping #42 . English Version

UP SUPING

UP#42

AUGUST 2023

www.upsuping.com

DIRECTOR

Nico Arnedo info@upsuping.com

DESIGN

Nico Arnedo.

TEXT AND COLLABORATORS

Antonio Serrera, Pablo Codesido, Santiago

Mencías Calderón, Ohian Aizpuru, Noah Díaz, Zane Schweitzer, Iballa Ruano, Axis, Freewing, Bruce Kirby, Miguel Ángel Colomina, Nico Arnedo, Up Suping.

PHOTOS

Chris Staddler, EuroTour, Giner Sport Fotografía, 3S, ben Reed, Sean Evans, Albert Laborda, Fran Rodríguez, Toni Mateo, Ensis, Matty Schweitzer, Clement Philippo, Laurent Nevarez, Scott Mckercher, Shannon Stent, Freewing, KDF Fotografía, Norman Hann, bruce Kirby,Michael Williams, Carlota Parras, Gwen marche, APP World Tour, Nico Arnedo.

PHOTO COVER

Nico Arnedo

Rider: Antonio Morillo

BACK COVER

Nico Arnedo

Reproduction in whole and in part of the texts, photographs and drawings published in this issue is strictly prohibited unless expressly agreed with the publishers. Supp Suping is not responsible for the opinions expressed by the collaborators or texts or photographs that reach our hands without being sued.

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DIGITAL MAGAZINE AND WEBSITE

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UP#42 edito

Soul. A day before finishing this magazine, our teammate Santiago Calderón, in one of our philosophical talks, reminded me of the existence of this word. Inevitably, I was associating her in all sectors and pillars of Stand Up Paddle...and if I tell you the truth, it is to write a great article. Because this abstract matter, focused on feeling and thinking, is part of the spark for which we decide to go out paddling every day. So…what would this sport and lifestyle be without a soul!

SUP is a small world within a huge universe, therefore, it is relatively easy to connect with all those who practice it and people who are dedicated to this sector. And as you already know, this sport unifies several criteria at a recreational level, competitive and as a way to disconnect from the stress of our lives. The presence of the soul, and knowing how to use it, makes a difference in how you use each of these criteria, and I promise you that the results are excellent.

You can tell that you use your soul when doing SUP when you are at peace in the middle of the immensity of a swamp, lake or ocean. He wants to escape from you when in a SUP Race competition he helps you get strength from somewhere in your body, or when you surfed a wave to the end and end with a huge smile. You have to activate the soul just before getting on the board, even when you are going to decide to go paddling. From that moment everything connects, and whatever comes will result in a great Stand Up Paddle session.

I repeat, it is to write a great article. Now, I only advise you to listen to that inner voice, that we sometimes ignore, which tells you many things. It happens to me a lot every time I start preparing a number of Up Suping, where each page is approved by the soul and listened to by feeling. You will put the thought: you will be the one who uses the imagination in each article read and feeds your passion for SUP. That is the goal of Up Suping. Ladies and gentlemen…Welcome to Up#42!

Nico Arnedo @nicodinovo_sup

C.Staddler

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Donato freens

Donato, your first part of the year at the competition level is impressive… how do you feel?

I feel incredibly proud and fulfilled with my performance in the first part of the year at the competition level. It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and I’m thrilled to see my hard work paying off. The results have exceeded my expectations, and it gives me great confidence moving forward.

You have many national titles and excellent performances in international events. What things have changed in your way of competing and paddling compared to other years?

Over the years, my approach to competing and paddling has evolved significantly. I have focused on refining my technique, improving my physical conditioning, and enhancing my mental game. I’ve also gained valuable experience from previous competitions, allowing me to make better strategic decisions during races. All these factors have contributed to my continued success and growth as an athlete.

Tell us about Ceuta: your first EuroTour victory in difficult conditions. It was a very demanding race and also accompanied by your family!

Winning the EuroTour in Ceuta was an incredible experience. The race was indeed challenging, with difficult conditions to navigate. However, having my family there to support me made it even more special. Their presence provided me with extra motivation and a sense of comfort, which undoubtedly played a role in my victory. It was a memorable moment that I will cherish for a long time.

How were your first SUP events in the Netherlands and inner Europe? How are they different from competitions in the Mediterranean area?

My first SUP events in the Netherlands and inner Europe have been a great platform to jump start my SUP racing career. It was the perfect setting to learn how to race mainly on flat water in my early days of cometing and learn to compete, strategize and apply tactics in a race. Over time I have developed some ocean skills and have been able to apply it in the Mediterranean area and the Atlantic.

EuroTour

The competitions in my region have a different atmosphere compared to those in the Mediterranean area. The water conditions and weather patterns can vary significantly here, which requires me to adapt my paddling technique and strategy accordingly. The level of competition is also impressive, pushing me to continually improve and stay at the top of my game.

You have a lot of paddling power and great sprinting skills. Is this something you’ve been training for?

Yes, my paddling power and sprinting skills are areas that I’ve dedicated significant training to. As a young junior I was not necessarily very good at it, but I do believe that a combination of genetics, natural talent and deliberate practice has helped me develop my skills. I’ve focused on specific workouts and drills to improve my power output and speed, allowing me to excel in sprint situations during races.

What are the conditions in which you are most comfortable? Flat, choppy, downwind, waves, etc.

I find myself most comfortable in a variety of conditions, including flatwater, choppy water, downwind, and even waves. Each presents its own challenges and requires different skills, but I’ve worked on developing versatility in my paddling. By adapting my technique and adjusting my strategy, I can perform well across various conditions and maximize my potential in any given situation. I like to paddle on flatwater since it is the best measurement of strength, speed and sheer will without any other factors that can influence the physical capabilities of a rider.

How is the situation of Stand Up Paddle in the Netherlands? Hopefully, your results and performance will inspire more people to practice this sport!

The situation of Stand Up Paddle in the Netherlands is vibrant and growing. There is a growing community of SUP enthusiasts, and the sport is gaining popularity. I hope that my results and performance can inspire more people to take up this sport and experience the joy and benefits of paddleboarding. It’s a wonderful activity that combines fitness, nature, and adventure, and I’m excited to be in a position to be someone that can contribute to its growth.

How is your preparation prior to a competition? Do you usually have a lot of nerves or do you stay calm?

Prior to a competition, I follow a structured preparation routine. I focus on maintaining a balance between physical training, mental preparation, and rest. While I do experience some nerves, I’ve learned to channel them into positive energy. I use visualization techniques, positive self-talk, and deep breathing exercises to stay calm and focused. Having a routine and trusting my preparation helps me stay composed and perform at my best when it matters most.

And besides SUP…what other things complement your life? Studies, hobbies, friends, sports, etc…

Besides SUP, I enjoy various other aspects of life. I prioritize my studies to ensure a well-rounded education. Additionally, I have hobbies such as photography and painting, which allow me to express my creativity. I also value spending time with my friends and participating in other sports to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

What are your next goals in your athlete lifestyle?

In my athlete lifestyle, my next goals include continuing to improve my skills and performance in SUP. I aspire to compete in larger international events and challenge myself against the best paddlers in the world. I also want to inspire and motivate others to pursue their passions and lead active, healthy lives. Beyond that, I aim to contribute to the growth and development of the sport by sharing my knowledge and experiences through coaching and mentoring.

EuroTour

Thanks to….

Thanks to everyone who has supported me on this incredible journey. I want to express my deep gratitude to my family, friends, coaches, and fans who have believed in me and cheered me on every step of the way. Your unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in my success. I would also like to extend a special thank you to Light Board Corp for their exceptional contribution to my career. Their innovative and high-quality paddleboard equipment has played a crucial role in my achievements. The performance and reliability of their boards have given me the confidence to push my limits and excel in competitions.

SUPers from different places all over Spain arrived in Melilla the days before the Triple Ese Festival, to acclimatize, enjoy this wonderful place and concentrate on one of the most important events in their calendar competition. A Mar Surf Club, organizers of this great event, also prepared different activities for the 3S Festival.

And although the forecasts for Saturday, May 13, predicted a day of a lot of action for the desired competition, the conditions present from the early hours of the day, were not adequate for the realization of the Spanish SUP Race Championship, also scoring for the Costa del SUP circuit, being postponed to Sunday and with more favourable forecasts for its development; eliminating the Sprint competition from the initial planning and changing it to a real Beach Race during the day on Saturday as the weather improved.

Giner Sport Fotografía. 3S Up Suping

An exciting afternoon with technical races in front of the Hípica beach, where the athletes showed great skills crossing breakers, turning buoys and surfing the waves with their Stand Up Paddleboards. The competitors Manuel Hoyuela and Duna Gordillo were the winners in the Elite category, while Augusto García and Alexia Soto achieved the same results in the SUB 18 category under the enjoyment of the entire local public, and with a great improvement in the weather, wishing that the long distance could be played the next day.

In the women’s Elite category, the favourites for this race started very strong during the course made in the bay of Melilla. As soon as they went out to sea and very close to the unchecking buoy in the Galapagos beach, Duna Gordillo opened up the distance over her opponents, further raising her race pace and with no chance of being able to catch up with her; she finally achieving the first position and obtaining the title of Champion of Spain SUP Race Long Distance. The riders Esperanza Barreras and Alba Frey performed a magnificent race, Espe obtained the second position ahead of Alba.

Continuing with the girls and young promises, it is worth highlighting Alexia Soto’s first place in the SUB 18 category, ahead of Ainhoa Rivas and Elene Etxeberría; confirming once again the great growth of this sport among women.

On the men’s Elite category, and after an exciting start crossing the waves of the Hípica beach, we enjoyed an extremely solid group paddling inside the bay, with exchanges of positions in the buoy, turns and some falls. The meters before the buoy in front of the Aguadú cliffs and its corresponding turn, made the competitors obtain more distances between themselves, with a race led by Aaron Sánchez and Antonio Morillo. The mallorcan used his experience in this kind of condition, managing to bring a few more meters away from the Los Caños rider, and moving completely away from him until he crossed the finish line and obtained the title of Champion of Spain. Antonio won a great second position ahead of his friend from Cádiz Fernando Pérez finishing in third place.

The younger boys also showed a great level of competition in Melilla, with an intractable Joan García Valero taking first place in the SUB 18 category ahead of Lluis Perotti and Augusto García.

We highlight the great results by Daniel Parres, Marc Foraster and Josu Allica in the Kahuna category. The Catalan Miquel Roigé and Gadea Ibarloza jump to the top of the podium in the Master category. As well as Miguel García Pérez and Inés Blin achieving the first places in SUB 16... and the rest of the young promises of this sport who gave us a great day of competition, action and emotion. Without a doubt, they are the heart of the national SUP Race!

The competition day ended with a cool journey for the children from Melilla, who were accompanied by Guillermo Carracedo, current SUP Surf European Champion. And after the awards ceremony of the different competitions held over the weekend, with the presence of local entities, the second edition of the Triple Ese Festival came to an end.

During the next few days, the city of Melilla continued to enjoy the presence of some of these athletes summoned for the first annual concentration of the National SUP Race Team with the support of the Spanish Surf Federation and A Mar Surf Club.

Total thanks to Melilla Sports Capital, Tourist Board, Autonomous City of Melilla, Transmediterránea, Fesurfing, Surfing.es, Real Club Marítimo de Melilla, Starboard, A Mar Surf Club and other collaborators who have made this project possible big event.

3D Keeler was born from the idea of creating the most revolutionary fin on the market. We decided to work on a new concept and studied all the fluid theorems to be able to achieve a stable keel that would also give us natural speed.

USED TECHNOLOGY

3D Keeler is a technological revolution within3D printing, it is a set of technologies that allows you to create objects without the need for molds, based on digital files. The 3D printers used are the most modern of the market, they are intelligent machines because they are capable of printing prototypes quickly and accurately.

DISEÑO ÚNICO

The design, engineering development and manufacturing process make the 3D Keeler the fastest fin in the world. It offers a versatile and balanced fin in terms of sensations, maneuverability and stability.

Their versatile movements in the water are superior to any fin on the market, since they provide a plus of speed and unprecedented control.

OHIAN & VITA

I have always liked applying my knowledge of shortboard surfing to Stand Up Paddle. I have also learned that achieving another objective: does not only depend on the surfer, it also depends on the board, the knowledge of the shaper and the team behind it…

As soon as I saw the work that the Vita Surfboards family was doing, they knew what they were doing. I remember that it was in the spanish championship held in Gijón in 2021 when Alazane Aurrekoetxea showed me his 6’9 with amazing shape. Only when I took it in my hands, did I know that this board had to make magic. The next day, Tato, the one who invited me to join the brand, left me one of the boards they had for testing. I tested it in conditions in which I find it more difficult to surf, in small waves. As soon as I caught the first wave, I felt that the speed of the board was different because when I nailed the edge the board shot out without stopping at any time. After that, I spoke with Sergio, the shaper, and we were thinking about different models that could be ideal for me.

Sergio is a genius, he can shape whatever you want without envying any other brand at all, from a classic longboard to a shortboard for powerful waves. Finally, we opted for a quite innovative model with a double edge in the Mo Freitas style.

I went to pick up the board in Gijón, and thus meet the whole team. I found the good contact they have with the client incredible, a very important point. There I met everyone who did their part to create the board, and they all appeared a week later at the Spanish Championship in Gijón giving me support. The best thing about Vita is the combination of a family atmosphere and very high level products. As I said before, I am completely sure that if we were to blindfold ourselves and try any of their boards together with big name brands like All Merrick, DHD, it would be impossible to tell them apart.

In the 2022 Spanish championship held in Gijón, things did not go badly, but I was not at my best moment, I had been in a cast for a whole summer due to a scaphoid fracture. I tried the board for the first time three days before the competition, and I felt that it was perfect for me. I got second place with a lot of effort, the rehabilitation of the wrist was very hard and somewhat hasty.

After a few months without competitions, I returned to compete this June in Lacanau, France. In this competition I have felt much better, both physically and mentally. Finally, I got first place with very good feelings. We had very different conditions during the championship, from a solid meter with good wind, to half a meter choppy. In this competition it has become clear to me that the board it´s ideal for me in all kinds of conditions.

Now it’s time to train in the summer for what comes in September. It is clear to me that the decision to join VITA was the right one, and I would do it again a hundred times over.

EL SPOT DEL DOCT

Unity, order and rules

R

One of the things that this sport has given me is having been able to follow its evolution from almost its birth. And one of the things that we are very proud of is that, from this little place, we can reflect aloud on various concerns and problems that affect us. Perhaps not always in a completely correct way, but always to improve any area of SUP. And this without intending to be repetitive, since they are still current issues today, and it seems essential to us to return to them. It is one of those wishes that, back issues in this magazine, we longed for this season. Unity, order and rules.

Pablo Codesido Ben Reed. Sean Evans. Albert Laborda. APP. Up Suping

A few days ago I had the opportunity, like many of you, to see the final sprint of the APP (a private organization that organizes competitive events with money prizes in some places of the planet) in Viana. The four finalists are authentic athletes in the competitive field of the SUP Race. In the first section, up to the first buoy, the one who for all is one of the great legends of this sport, Connor Baxter, took the lead. Connor suffers a fall in the first turn, a conglomerate of colours corresponding to the different boards that intertwine his nose is observed, as usual, in the middle of a small chaos of paddles and arms in continuous movement. But Connor falls and, despite recovering on the spot, is ultimately relegated to second place. It is possible that the best did not win, but this time he may not have lost. Minutes later the judges decide to give him the victory after penalizing two of his opponents.

I have seen the video many times, and as in any sporting controversy in which you are not a direct part, you can give your opinion even without knowing the ins and outs of the corresponding regulations. It’s like that foul on the limit or the penalty that not everyone sees the same. The social networks began to explote, and the groups of friends to vomit discrepancies and biased bad intentions to surface. And be careful, I’m talking about people who are well versed in the subject.

I love playing devil’s advocate. He allows you to see things from another perspective, even reaching conclusions that you would not otherwise have reached, especially when you are not an interested party. I have not seen any intentionality in the two penalized, I even think that some of them got smaller, but the truth is that whoever was first was destabilized and fell into the water. It’s been an iffy, dissenting, part of the game...but Connor, even though he didn’t cross the finish line first, took the jackpot. There are cash prizes, prestige, and some sponsors, everyone wants to win, it’s part of the goal when you’re a professional. And it is that this sport wants to continue advancing, growing and becoming strong. A spear must be broken in favour of all those athletes who dedicate hours and hours of their lives to training, improving a little more every day, and having sport as their vital objective... they are worthy of special praise. Their achievements, their rivalries and their struggles create a competitive environment that makes the sport visible to the general public, engages people and creates spectacle connotations, something very difficult to achieve today and that makes us think about the future professionalism of our beloved sport.

It’s not my intention here to decide whether Connor should have won that race or not (he’s always there, he’s a legend), or even to challenge the judges’ decision. But there is no doubt that in a competition, especially sprints and beach races, there are contacts. And there were, of course there were. In the previous series there were contacts, obstructions, unintentional blows...but there were no penalties as important as the one in the final...which, in the end, was distorted by itself.

As I told you before, coming from the prehistory of this sport gives you the possibility of having seen many things together and unfair. I focus on mine because of not getting rough. After all, they are stories that do not have much significance, but perhaps some moral. There have always been crosses in the trajectory of two boards, draftings, strategies and nonsense. I remember when canoeing started to come into this sport. It was a race in which we were less than half a dozen participants. One of them was a kayak world champion who had never stood up on the board. I seem to remember that he was second or third, obviously paddling in a kayak position, what a beast! we all said, with a paddle surfboard!, and even he received a medal with the corresponding disappointment of those who were left behind. The protests were few, but we immediately understood that this was not the essence of this sport and that the rule of limiting knee paddling had to be essential. According to this anecdote, I also remember how the vests were mandatory depending on the test or how (it still happens) according to the different federations you have to choose if you are a master, elite, Indian or cowboy category, and not always with the intention of having more awarded, which in some cases seems fantastic to me. I have always thought that if you win the Open event, then you are the champion, whether you are 17 or 91 years old, both in the general classification and in your category.

Perhaps the height of the nonsense was that local traverse when we were still transitioning between 12.6¨ to 14¨ boards, one of the few times I entered a finish line first. But it’s fair to say, my board was 14¨ and the majority of the rest was 12.6¨. Already in the Fesurf competitions, they competed in 14¨ or podiums and were distinguished for both measures. What was my surprise: when after the protests of a couple of competitors (of those who no longer do SUP) the organizer told me that they were not governed by the rules applied by Fesurf, but by those of the ISA, a higher-ranking entity, which still he kept the 12.6¨boards as main.

My logical ignorance (I admit) made me ask: “But aren’t they the same rules?¨... with very good judgment I was urged to read the corresponding regulations, which I advise you for the future, the bad thing is that I didn’t know which one, since the test posters did not specify it or said regulations were not easily accessible. Making an aside, I advocate here for institutional transparency in federations and institutions, so that both assemblies and boards can have an adequate representation of the clubs and groups that work the most for the development of sport, so that there is diversity, contributions and they are not the particular interests that come before sport. I have to admit that as a well-educated ignoramus, an old competitor, it would never have occurred to me to read such dense rules, that that is why there are coaches, managers or the control of the organization itself (which is not always done, like that day). Of course, I immediately reproached my children, their friends and their parents, for having ever competed in a popular event without having read the corresponding regulations and statutes of athletics, cycling, football, basketball, surfing, horse riding and tennis, that at that time they habitually practised, like most kids in childhood, but that even if they had done so they would be scrupulous when it came to verifying to which class: local, national or international they belonged (humorous irony).

There was no bad intention by the organization, it was simply overwhelmed by an unexpected situation, we were at the beginning. But there were protests from some of the competitors, and for this they were not prepared given the little unification of criteria at the time. That’s the key, the test had no significance, and we didn’t play for big prizes, scholarships or sponsors... at least in my case, but what if I had it? The final result was not very diligent, I was left without a medal and the organizer without a good video of the test, with how easy it would have been to improvise a podium for 14¨boards. Anyway, I still don’t know if the ISA, Fesurf and Fegasurf were the same rules or not, but what I do know is that the interpretation of the rule was very volatile and improvised, in my opinion poorly resolved, and although I was probably wrong, I was wrong without being able to remedy it and that is something that should not happen to a person who simply wants to enjoy their favorite sport in a competition, for which they have paid a registration fee, whether they are amateurs or professionals.

Evans

The moral of this amusing anecdote, if we transpose it to that of the Viana APP event, is that the competitors must know what are the criteria to be followed from the beginning, when they choose the material, turn, collide or intercede with other boards so that their competitiveness is not diminished and at the same time they do not irresponsibly hinder their opponent. The regulation must be very well specified and rehearsed. Private organizations can indeed define specific characteristics, but in general it is about unifying the rules and that we all end up getting to know them even without having read and studied a particular regulation in depth. Because if they are strong they will standardize on their own, even though the discrepancy in subjective actions will always be part of the game. In fact, and as an example, few footballers I know have studied the FIFA regulations... and some even win World Cups.

Other times we have questioned the unity of the different private organizations and federations. Undoubtedly, recent court decisions regarding the jurisdiction of this sport have helped to clarify something in the competitive field. But it should not stop there. From our point of view, training and education are basic in any activity in life. The different organizations must accredit and train correctly trained judges, and referees who know the discipline and can establish the rules of this sport and progressively improve the rules with accumulated experience. Therefore, unity is needed not only in theory but also in practice.

You know that within the various modalities of this sport, I am a great defender of the Beach Race, where it is almost impossible that compromising circumstances do not occur between competitors. Reaching a buoy with 10 riders on a wave, as well as being committed is spectacular. I have rarely seen a judge disqualify anyone when the conditions are harsh, despite the insults that the corresponding paddlers throw at each other: hey!, move away!, be careful!, site! Sometimes you dream that the test has big waves because that’s when you focus more on the middle than on the opponent. The sea always puts us in its place.

A.Laborda

I don’t like to talk about this subject without always emphasizing the merit of the event organizers. Even those who make mistakes. We are currently lucky that tests and competitions proliferate throughout the national territory. Be careful, because not all of them meet the requirements to make them suitable. Sometimes economic or commercial interests take precedence over sports interests and, although legitimate, there is no good profit if there is no quality work and I feel that mediocrity is taking over certain events.

Whatever you propose, try to do it well. Although the test is local, it has all the basic characteristics that the competitors want to return the next year. But among them, a regulation sponsored by an entity, preferably federative, is insurance. Because it will also include basic safety and sports arbitration rules. You as a competitor have good previous information, where to park, where to unload, how and in which category to sign up, clarity in prices, clarity in the type of competition, control of the material, clear briefing, correct distances, appropriate and alternative routes according to the weather conditions, judges at critical points (buoys), note security, type of departure specified in advance, race rules, prizes (and compliance with collection in the case of money or material goods, even if only out of respect for the athlete), clarity and agility in the results, educated referees...I assure you that, as a competitor in multiple events, the ones that ultimately succeed are those that are organized with humility and great seriousness. I reiterate the need for the federations to support the efforts of good organizers as much as possible since it is not an easy task. But even in those more professional competitions the great figures begin to not appear due to non-compliance with the basic rules, and that is very dangerous.

To explain the success of a specific activity, an old fellow researcher always used civil aviation as an example. He said: “Did you know that approximately 100,000 flights are carried out in the world every day? And what is the probability of having an accident? Minimal, why? Because everything is protocolized, the rule is strict and the same for everyone”. When we unify rules and protocols, there will be less and less chance of an accident and more of the one who enters the finish line first being the one who most deserves it.

B.Reed

The second edition of the Arnoia SUP Challenge has been a success in participation, fun and competitiveness. This wonderful place in the interior of Ourense, has the perfect conditions for doing Stand Up Paddle, being a great discovery for riders and families who had not been to its previous edition. And for this year, the organization prepared a series of competitions and activities for the public: a long distance scoring for the Spanish Cup, the Galician Cup and Sprints of the Spanish Surfing Federation in the waters of the Miño river.

The successful second edition of the

ARNOIA SUP CHALLENGE

The Arnoia SUP Challenge 2023 inaugurated the long distance competition held on Saturday, May 20, with the participation of riders who came from different places of the country; highlighting above all the large number of athletes from different clubs in Galicia such as Sanxenxo, Mera or Aguete among others. Nor was there any shortage of international riders who came from Portugal, thanks to the existing proximity to that neighbouring country.

Up Suping

Christian Staddler. Up Suping

The Elite category offered a great show to all the public present in Arnoia, covering a 14 km course with technical areas, buoy turns, flat water and the wind making an appear-ance at different places in Miño river. The competitor Esperanza Barreras and the young rider Fernando Pérez had no rivals in their corresponding categories, demonstrating once again the great performance they have. The podium was completed by Izaskun Martinez and Marta Abrunedo in the women’s category, and Nico Barreiro and Iván Puente in the men’s category.

However, where there was much more action and rivalry was for the rest of the competi-tors pushed to the maximum until they reached the finish line, causing overtaking and sprints that generated a great spectacle.

First started the Amateur and children’s categories, taking different routes, leaving from the start line of the Caldaria SPA and with wonderful conditions for this competition. For the riders, it was inevitable to take their eyes off the paddle and the board to also enjoy the wild surroundings of the area.

The first day of the Arnoia SUP Challenge 2023 ended in the afternoon with a popular course through different areas of the river, also taking advantage of the presence of Es-peranza and Fernando, who offered advice and tips to the most amateur riders, in a won-derful afternoon of coexistence.

The second day of this event was for the Sprints, with a very spectacular ISA format of 200 meters of travel and making a buoy turn between this distance. A marvellous sunny Sunday flooded the Arnoia Council, with the presence of not only athletes and family members but also a public that came to the event from other areas of this region.

The competitor Esperanza Barreras and Nico Barreiro were the fastest of the day, show-ing an impeccable style in this modality of Stand Up Paddle. They were accompanied on the podium by Mia Soares and Paloma Porta in the women’s category, and Guillerme Far-ia and Antón Sans in the men’s category.

We also highlight the participation of the youngest and amateurs who also showed great skills in these Sprints. The day would end with the awards ceremony and a snack at the SPA facilities.

Undoubtedly, the Arnoia SUP Challenge is an event that is here to stay and is already a big SUP event at the national level, also being key for Galician athletes, in a year that promises a lot of excitement for the Galician Cup and its respective events.

..

Balz Muller about the TOP SPIN boom wing

The ENSIS TOP SPIN boom wing range has grown. The 5 sizes 3.1, 3.6, 4.1, 4.6, 5.1 come in different colors, a great wish of Balz Müller has been fulfilled. All sizes are available now, which we take as an opportunity for an interview with Balz.

For a very long time, you wanted to have the high performance of an ENSIS wing also available as a boom wing. The ENSIS TOP SPIN is now available in 5 sizes. Why is a boom so important to you?

As a passionate windsurfer, I always missed the familiar, direct sail-body connection when wingfoiling. Thus, even with the very first ENSIS wings, I mounted broken windsurfing booms and laminated them with toothbrushes in my living room. Many, many prototypes followed until the final ENSIS TOP SPIN met our demands for high performance. The advantages of boom wings have always fascinated me and never let me go. For me, these are the direct navigation of the wing, the unlimited gripping possibilities and the fact that the wing does not swing out on its own during manoeuvres.

The ENSIS TOP SPIN is the result of an intensive phase of R&D. What were the major challenges during development?

The challenge was to find a robust and yet light connection from boom to strut. So many different forms of connections were printed or laminated. As soon as they were made, we quickly destroyed them doing radical freestyle manoeuvres. The strains on the connections are high. So we started again from scratch several times.

In your eyes, what are the most important qualities that a boom must fulfill?

Riding comfort must be high. This means that the boom needs to be ergonomic in order to achieve maximum efficiency when riding. In addition, the boom should be light and stiff. Last but not least, a comfortable grip is important to achieve the desired comfort.

And of course we want to know: Have you achieved this with the ENSIS TOP SPIN?

After more than a dozen prototypes, I am convinced that we have found a super solution. The boom is ergonomic and comfortable to ride. The ENSIS Click Fix Mounting System is easy to use and can withstand all our crazy moves.

The TOP SPIN is available in different colors. Were you involved in this?

To have each size in a different color was my and the team’s great wish. We think it’s great to know what size friends are using on the water when you get to the spot. Each size has a different, fresh colour, so it’s easy. Plus, the variety is fun!

Noah in

Noah Díaz Fran Rodríguez. Toni Mateo

¨From a very young age, I always accompanied my father to Siam Park, but without being able to catch waves because I was very small. He always caught my attention.

But this time, it was a big surprise for me as a birthday present. Also, a couple of days before we went to Siam Park, I received my first wave SUP board, a Starboard 6’8 x 24. There were many emotions together in a short time.

When they told me that I was going to Siam Park, I started to catch waves with my new board the 3 or 4 days before to practice a little before going to the pool. And to take better advantage of this opportunity, I wanted to catch some waves also with my Race board, the All Star Kids 12’6x20. It was a lot of fun, new sensations.

I admit that I was somewhat nervous in the first waves. I had to put myself in the right place to make the most of it. As soon as you catch the wave, you pick up a lot of speed. My new board was going very fast and I had to control it while learning the trajectory of the waves. In each wave that I caught I followed my father’s advice and that helped me a lot to lose my nervous and start to enjoy it more.

When I felt calmer, I decided to try the race board, without being able to do manoeuvres, but practising for my future races with waves.¨

These waves usually take a little less than two minutes, basically to get the pool water calm again and the next wave to be as smooth. In two hours, I was able to catch about 20-25 waves, and I was not alone in the water! And although I’m still learning and I don’t do many manoeuvres, I’ve seen great tricks done with the wave SUP, like good front-side and back-side, some small barrel and many more.

The wave pool works by large water tanks that are located just behind the great Thai Wall. With nothing more and nothing less than eleven thousand litres of water at a temperature of 24 degrees. You can request the height of the wave at the beginning of the session from the technical staff, from levels 1 to 6. You can also choose the direction of the wave, or even a small peak in the middle, with right-hand waves and left. Normally, this last option takes more travel from the waves, but a normal right or left wave can be about 33 meters long.

To people who want to go to Siam Park, I would tell them not to come in very large groups, but with three or four friends, so they surf more waves per person. The rental time has no limit, you can rent it from one hour to the time you want. Renting it at night is another great option, the park and the bottom of the pool have several lights that change colour.

It doesn’t matter what board you want to come: SUP, Surf, Longboard, Bodyboard, etc. For those who like waves, it is a mandatory visit.

Thank you very much Nico and congratulations for all the support and follow-up you do so that our sport is always at the top.

SPANISH ULTRA SUP RACE

2023

JUNE 17 th

RIBEIRA BEACH. BAIONA

Last Saturday, June 17th, Baiona hosted a new edition of the Spanish SUP Race Resistance Championship, one of the most demanding Stand Up Paddle competitions in our country. And the Galician SUP Race Championship and a test of the Spanish Cup of the Spanish Surf Federation were also held.

From early in the morning, with the epicenter of the event at Praia de la Riberia, riders from all over Galicia and also from the Cantabrian coast, Catalonia and Portugal, among other places, attended. The children’s categories, from SUB 10 to SUB 14, were the first to jump into the water, with races made so that they could enjoy a pleasant tour in complete safety; paddling between 1.5km and 3km, depending on the category. There was no lack of encouragement from the beach, since they are the base of the Galician SUP Race and they are acquiring more experience in each event they attend.

Up Suping

Around 3:00 p.m., the races for the rest of the categories began, with the eyes on those who participated in the Resistance modality, with more than 21 km. of competition and where anything can happen. The starts were spectacular, as were the first kilometres of the route established for all of them in front of Baiona, towards the Ladeira beach and back to the event area. A route of about 5.5km that the SUB 16 and Amateur categories did, highlighting the great results of Paloma Porta and Pelayo Blanco.

The Elite category completed 2 laps of the course, where the Galician Laura Gil and Miquel Roigé were the first to complete that distance, ahead of Nicolás Barreiro and Tomás Sánchez in the men’s category; and with Ana Marta Pérez and Marta Abruñedo the girls SUPers. Regarding the SUB 18s, the participants Pablo Blanco and Xavier Castro climbed to the top of the podium.

Also highlight the great effort made by Borja Fernández and Eusebio Rodríguez, being winners of the Master and Kahuna categories correspondingly. Minerva Méndez climbed to the top of the podium in the women’s Master, like Paula Rodriguez but in the Kahuna category.

The competition did not end here, since the riders who signed up for the Spanish SUP Race Resistance Championship had to do twice as many laps around the course to show who was the most resistant. As the hours passed, some athletes who found the competition very hard, even though they are prepared with drink and all kinds of food to withstand this type of race, withdrew. This races also have its psychological side. The weather did not vary much throughout the afternoon, but the change of tide and the currents that originated along its route did have a bit of an influence.

One of the great favourites for this event, Miquel Roigé, remained very strong from the start and took first place in the men’s category after more than two and a half hours rowing, ahead of Tomás Sánchez who climbed the ranks as he the race was going on. And the young rider Iván Puente achieved the third position and showed once again the great level that he has at this time of the year.

And the young rider Iván Puente got the third position and showed once again the great level he has at this time of the year. The female category was no less! The Galician Marta Abruñedo had to retire in the 3rd lap and the Catalan Desiree Sánchez crossed the finish line after a spectacular competition. She was followed by the asturian Minerva Méndez in the second position.

From the first to the last, they were very well received with applause and hugs; valuing the great effort that each of the athletes have made after the degree of demand that they have had to work during the more than 21km rowed. The event closed with the corresponding awards ceremony, and the presence of local entities and collaborators.

STARBOARD ROLL TECHNOLOGY

This 3-piece folding fin box allows you to roll your board instead of folding it, reducing packing size by 30%. Store your Starboard ZEN Inflatable Board with Tiki F Pump and 3-Piece Paddle in a compact canvas backpack for easier, more comfortable transportation. Plus, the swivel wheels make it the perfect travel companion. And its ergonomically shaped shoulder straps will offer you greater comfort and stability.

10’8” x 33” IGO

11’2” x 31” IGO

11’6” / 12’6” / 14’0” TOURING

NSP

100% CARBONO SPEEDSTER 76

NSP’s new Carbon Speedster 76 racing blade 76, with a 29mm shaft integrates a parallel edge outline that gives racers a quick and precise catch. Its edge outline also helps release, allowing for a faster motion through the water. The outline of the Speedster blade is perfect for sprint racing, downwind runs, and long-distance paddling.

• Blade Area: 76 sqm or 490cm²

• Length: 220 cm

• Shaft/blade angle 10°

• UD Carbon stringer

• HDC CNC cut PVC Core, lightweight with minimal resin

• Pre-molded carbon next for maximum strength

• Full ABS rail around the blade edge for durability

• Laminated with eco-friendly bio-resin

WINDPARADISE

OHANA ISUP LANDBOARD

The Ohana ISUP Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a perfect board for everyone. Whether it’s to paddle your SUP board on a beautiful lake, the deep blue sea, or paddle a small nearby river, the Ohana SUP Freeride can do it all. The ohana isup freeride is suitable for the whole family. All Ohana SUP boards are equipped with kayak and paddle seat accessories. The pack includes: Ohana inflatable board, kayak seat accessories, paddle, inflation pump, leash, repair kit and a practical transport bag / backpack.

HAWK

Specially designed for beach races or long distance sessions when sea conditions are strong. To all riders, it is a versatile board that offers great stability and comfort when paddling. Its carbon fiber construction makes it light and resistant at the same time. Its tinted resin finish can be customized in the colours that you like best. Available in any width as it adjusts to the needs of each rider. Aboard that will surprise you!

MATERIAL

The design, engineering development and manufacturing process make the 3D Keeler the fastest fin in the world. It offers a versatile and balanced fin in terms of sensations, maneuverability and stability. Their versatile movements in the water are superior to any fin on the market, since they provide a plus of speed and unprecedented control.

The material used for its PRO fins is a special high-tech polyamideflexible enough to give shape, texture and resistance. One of the qualities of the materials studied was the search for buoyancy in the water in the event of a collision loss. The material used in the Keeler PRO 3D keels is highly durable and strong, slightly flexible and with a specialporosity in all its designs.

3D KEELER KEELER SUP KGUARD

BRUSH

Remove sand from neoprene and feet. The soft brush hair will not damage your skin or the neoprene/equipment you want to clean. Design suitable for outdoor activities and water sports (Surf, Windsurf, Bodyboard, KiteSurf, SUP, Wakeboard…)

• Longlasting and sustainable.

• Resistant to wet and saline environments.

• Easy to use and clean.

• Soft touch.

• Weight: 220 gr.

• Height: 40,5 cm.

• Width: 6 cm.

• Lenght: 5 cm.

AWA SUNGLASSES SOTAVENTO

Lightweight, resistant sportstyle sunglasses with rubberized contactpoints on the temples and pads for optimal grip. Its wraparound frame is perfect for nautical sports. It exhibits a casual design to stand out when out of the water. Matte black front with orange, yellow or blue rubberized details. Thanks to the exclusive patented technology of AWA Sunglasses, these sunglasses stay afloat.

VITA SURFBOADS

SKIFF BY OIHAN AIZPURU

Oihan Aizpuru SUP Surf board. The skiff model is designed to get the most out of each wave. Fast, reactive and with luxury finishes.

• 7.3 x 24 x 3 7/8 74 lts.

• Round square tail.

• Five FCS 2 plugs for the fin combination.

MATERIAL STARBOARD

E-TYPE

The all-rounder. The E-Type offers a mix of low-speed stability, stallresistance through transitions, some glide and some speed and a nice carving sensation. Combine this Wing Set with a Monolithic Mast Set or Aluminium V8 Mast Set to make a complete foil

• Front wings: 1100 / 1300 / 1500 / 1700 / 2000.

• Tail wing: RAZR 250.

• Fuselage: pieza de cola 36cm.

• Aspect ratio: 5.0-6.1.

• Span: 74 cm / 82 cm / 95 cm / 110 cm.

STARBOARD

XTRA

Our design brief was super early foil action, create maximum control at high speed, keep balance in critical moments and minimize drag while in the air. We also wanted to minimize movement between foot and foil. The smaller sizes are for windy days, light and advanced riders. The bigger sizes are simply the most performance oriented and controllable boards we offer in their volume category. For wing foil racing, we would recommend one size bigger than for freeride use.

NSP KINGPIN

The Kingpin is the dedicated prone surfer in the line-up, available in four sizes from 4’4” | 32 liters up to 5’6” | 46.5 liters. The compact shape, its double concave and tail cutaway make getting on foil as quick as possible. The full volume pointed round nose features a deep double concave hydro hull transitioning to a flat rocker through the middle and tail. This is complimented by a full chined rail and cutaway round tail, reducing surface area and promoting early release. This combination of concaves, rockers, rail chines, and cutaway tail releases faster without drag, for a super smooth take-off and it easily handles touchdowns.

CODEFOILS

HIGH MODULUS MAST 75cm

Code Foils Masts are tapered toward the bottom of the mast to increase glide and efficiency. All our Masts are constructed with high modulus carbon resulting in a stiff strong mast with no compromise. Extended blend to base plate designed to give extra stiffness and a rock solid feeling under your feet giving maximum feedback to each pump and turn. Tapered towards the bottom of the mast to increase glide and efficiency

WingfoilingVlog of the 2023 M2M with Zane

The 2023 M2M this year had such an epic turnout of over 90 foilers and I can’t tell you how exciting it was to share my local training grounds on the Pailolo Channel with everyone for such an action-packed race course 27 miles from West Maui to Kaunakakai Molokai. As I am last year’s record holder with a crossing time of 1:22 I was super excited to push the limits of my new Starboard & FreeWing wingfoil race gear and improve on my top time.

I took a risk by choosing my fastest foil in my quiver, the Starboard Foils Team 560+ 96cm mast paired with my largest FreeWing PRO which is a 5m. To bring it all together, I used the new Starboard X-15 foil board (soon to be released).

Across the channel this setup was awesome, but as I approached the last two miles towards the finish the NE wind started to flatten out on the water and shortly after the wind was fickle and dropping considerably. With less than a mile from the finish and in the top 4 I lost wind in the wing and resorted to flagging the wing and pumping. I wasn’t able to keep an efficient flight with my High Speed 560 foil and tall mast, hitting the water for the first time since I started the race.

At this point I had no options, I got to my belly and continued to fight to the finish line but riders with bigger wings and larger foils slowly started to pass by me!

That’s the name of the game! It was an epic race but I could have benefitted from a larger wing and even a larger foil – especially the last 2 miles of the race. So exciting to learn from all the other rider’s gear choices and see the innovation of this sport soaring!

Matty Schweitze

Zane Schweitze

DIRECTIONS IN WINGBOARD

TEST

by Nico Arnedo

HAWK

After a few years of study and preparation, the Landboard brand creates its first SUP Race board: the Hawk. And it surprised me from the first moment I saw it for its design, shape and colour! As soon as I had it in my hands, I knew that in the water it would be a board to enjoy from the first stroke... and so it was. We are talking about a 14” x 23” board with 289 litres, excellent measurements for all SUPers of this Stand Up Paddle modality.

The Hawk has great flowability and comfort as soon as you start it up in the water. It has a very good speed reaction in a straight line, maintaining an excellent paddling rhythm. Both upwind and sidewind, this board correctly maintains its stability and offers you the security to paddle with peace of mind in practically all types of conditions

As for the action in the turns, the Hawk reacts quickly as soon as we position our body and paddle for said movement. She may even react a lot in advance and be a little inaccurate due to the lack of surface in some areas of the tail. But we remember, this board is a first model and this is one of the few improvements that it needs for its next evolution. And if there is something that we must highlight it´s the hardness and the quality of the material. It is not a board that is easily scratched or damaged, Lander has used top quality material and that is appreciated by those who may be less careful with the material.

In addition, the pad and the handles are also of the highest quality, ensuring a total grip for your feet and absolute comfort when moving the board. The Hawk is also very reliable in the open sea, adapting perfectly to bumps and riding waves very well. Without a doubt, it is a great board and it is generating great feedback among all the SUPers who are trying it. A great job by Lander will open the doors to many more models of SUP Race boards from this great brand.

iona rivet

C.Philippon

Hello Iona! Ready to enjoy the european summer? Do you have any plans for your vacation?

Hi Nicolas, I’m more than ready for the European summer. That’s my favorite season because the day are longer, the water is warmer. I only have 2 weeks of vacation so my plans are : enjoying as much as possible the water (downwind, surfing, training, running, just being outside most of the time), I’m going one week a little bit in the south where the waves are better.

We have seen you very strong and happy during your first competitions in 2023. How do you feel?

I’m feeling more and more confident and strong. I’m 100% motivated to achieve my goals. I’m always happy when it comes to travel to paddle in a new place : you see people from others countries, you learn a lot because of different races, you just enjoy doing what you love the most: being on the water.

What have been the races that you have enjoyed the most and which were the hardest?

I will begin with the hardest: Alicante was for me the most difficult race of the year so far. I wasn’t feeling good, not happy with my result, not having fun on the water. Not a good memory from a race I really love. I really enjoyed 2 specific race: Bordeaux because I trust the current and the plan I made before the race and I ended up finishing near to the 2 best paddlers at the moment. And the longue distance in Pornichet Paddle Trophy because that was my first time having so much fun. The race course was to start from the beach, to go to the island in front of the beach, then turn the island on the right to go to a buoy and come back to the beach. Mother Nature was truly with us: light upwind and sidewind. When I turned the last buoy in first position, the wind came up and I got the perfect downwind you hope for on a race.

Up Suping Clement Philippon. EuroTour. Laurent Nevarez

L.Nevarez

Let’s go a little back in time... How and when did you get to know Stand Up Paddle?

I discovered SUP when I came to Brest in 2014. I started racing five years go.

Tell us about NSP: the boards, paddles and the atmosphere within the brand.

I am paddling on NSP boards since 2019. For the 2023 season, my quiver is composed of a ninja 20, a Carolina 20,5 and a puma 22. The ninja is the perfect board for flat race, and even light downwind. The stability is incredible and you really feel the speed on flat water. The Carolina is my absolute favorite board for downwind, choppy conditions, technical race. The shape is perfect for the turns and I really enjoy the fact that an allotter board is adapted for girls thanks to the fact that it’s narrow. They worked a lot on paddles and I can’t wait to try the new ones. NSP Team is a big family with so many strong paddlers, everyone is always positive and supportive, this atmosphere is really helpful during races because it is pushing you to do your best.

What other sports do you combine with SUP?

SUP is taking a big place in my daily life but I enjoy swimming during winter, I like also running. I started wing foil but it will require a long time to fly.

Do you have any training plans for competitions?

I am working with Vincent Guillaume (Training Week) since the beginning. He is an incredible coach and I love improving and sharing my season with him.

Paddling alongside the best female riders on the planet must be incredible. What have you been learning from all of them?

I have been learning that giving up is not option, when you are on the starting line you have to give your best as if it was the only race you will be in for the entire season. I also learned that the only limit is you.

Do you have any kind of support to help you with the expenses of your trips and competitions?

When I started racing, La Baule Direct Sailing shop represented by Pascal Jaloux gave me the opportunity to be part of the team. He helps me with boards since the beginning. I also started working with another sponsor : Groupe SOFT represented by Fabrice Boudinet. This company’s activity is the construction of turnkey tertiary buildings. They offer me the possibility to travel more due to a financial help. I am working for them for 2,5 years now.

Have you represented France in any international competition? Would one of your big goals be to go to an ISA World SUP Championship or EuroSUP with the French team?

I have only represented France in the ICF World Championship in Hungary and Poland. My goal number 1 since last year is the be part of the French team and to go to the ISA World Championship and also the EuroSUP. I am working hard since last year to reach that goal. Fingers crossed for it to happen this year!

Thanks to...

It was a pleasure to meet you in Alicante. Since I came in Alicante and Daniel Parres Club, Spain feels more and more like a second home. EuroTour

ARTHUR ARUTKIN AND ALBA FREY WINNERS OF THE GPS 2023

Gwen Marche

The french Arthur Arutkin and the spanish Alba Alonso Frey are winners of the Gran Canaria PRO 2023 paddle surf race (SUP Race), in the Elite male and female categories, during a spectacular and exciting day at Playa del English, in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. Gran Canaria PRO 2023 is the fifth round of the EuroTour international circuit and has had the participation of more than 50 riders from 14 countries.

Second and third place in the Elite Men’s category went to Christian Andersen and Blue Ewer, respectively. For her part, in the female category Anna Tschirky was placed in second place, followed by Susanne Lier.

Joan García and Bianca Toncelli triumphed in the under 18 category. In the under 14 category, Jaden Araña Miranda and Elisa López came in the top positions, and in the under 12 category Noah Díaz and Daniela Cazorla. While, in the Amateur classification, Christopher Mejías and Alba García were proclaimed winners.

Second Reef director, Eduardo Díaz, thanked all the athletes for their participation in this test of special relevance for the discipline. “Every year more international athletes join this event in a unique environment such as Playa del Inglés, with unbeatable conditions for doing this sport, which makes Gran Canaria PRO one of the most important competitions of paddle surfing”, he stated.

The test is organized by the SecondReef School and is sponsored by the Sports Department of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, Turismo de Gran Canaria, Maspalomas Costa Canaria, Tipsy Hammock and Mini Marmotor.

Once the occupation of the beach was completed, Second Reef proceeded to completely clean the space and carry out the other actions required to ensure its full conservation.

l atest technology

Fast dry technical recycling great comfort

ultr a soft touch

No ordinary moments

This is how my adventure began:

After so many years competing in windsurfing, I found the sport of SUP a new adventure in my life and it has taken me to places I never thought I would go. Among others, to Tahiti, together with Scott in 2012. When Scott started his SMIK project, I was by his side helping him in any way I could. We talked a lot, we developed boards and it wasn’t until this year that I was able to make a dream come true: to be part of his team.

When Scott Mckercher invited me to Indo to do a Longboard SUP event and then a surf trip with the rest of the team I thought; “It will be another adventurous trip with my friend Scott, one of many we have done in these 20 years of friendship.” Knowing Scott, I knew I had to let go and that one disaster would lead to another and then another...but somehow it would end up being an incredible and unforgettable trip. So it was.

Iballa Ruano Scott Mckercher. Michael Williams

Let’s go to INDONESIA! I bought the ticket with a lot of pain seeing the high prices, but I thought to myself; It is one of the few adventures that you will do for the rest of your life and that is priceless.

I arrived in Bali without boards, without pad dles and depending 100% on Scott. He had ordered two boards and was looking forward to seeing them there! A long SUP and a SUP Waves board. I have to say that I have worked on designs with Scott for many years and every time I wait for one of his shipments I look forward to them like the XMas pre sents. When I got to Bali there they were! My two new toys are ready and waiting for me to go in the water.

BALI LONGBOARD SUP REVOLUTION

Honestly, I had never tried LongSUP before, but Bali was an amazing trip to experience this new discipline of the sport. Also, the waves were incredible and the atmosphere between the girls was even more so. Skyler Rayner and Brea Bright were two discoveries for me, as I already knew Wesly Fry and Kai Bates well from various JPA and ISA world tours together.

The atmosphere of the event was amazing. There were groups of all ages. Brea was the youngest against an Australian man of about 76 years. They all had something in common: the love of SUP surfing and the Bintang.

After the event, we watched the report and got carried away by our boss Scott Mckercher. Looking at the part, and although we barely had 5/6 days for the trip, we decided to go to the island of Rote. A flight with a local airline (which is always an adventure), a taxi of several hours, a night in a hotel in God knows where, 8 hours by boat and two hours by taxi later, we arrived at the anxious destination! I thought we were never going to get there. We arrived almost at night, and there was an onshore wind and small waves, I looked at Scott and saw a worried expression on his face. We went to bed to wait for what the next morning had in store for us.

M.Williams

I had been on that island in 2009 with Sonni Hönscheid and Mario Entero on a surf trip with Roxy, probably the first surf trip of my life, and it was unforgettable. I have many memories of good waves in that place, and I expected nothing less from this trip.

The next morning, we rented a scooter and went with the first light of day to one of the spots. We discovered some really good waves and went into the water! 3 hours of surfing later we were calmer, we had the feeling that the long trip to the island had already been worth it.

Our life on the island was sunrise in the water, eating, napping and going to the water again. Between session and session we were looking at possible spots and visiting the island. Motorcycle rides became essential. We let ourselves be advised by the locals. The truth is that Indo Lines were incredible, they took us to the best spots and we surfed practically alone. We also stayed in their accommodation and they made us breakfast, lunch and dinner, we didn’t have to worry about food and everything was delicious.

I also have to say that we went very early in the good season of T-Land and we surfed it, but it was not the T-land that we usually see in the photos and reports. Also being SUPers, we were very careful and respectful of surfers (always the mythical story between the priorities of surfing over other sports like ours and the issue of localism).

A few intense days of SUPsurfing with friends, who are family, in a magical place like Bintang that I knew very little about...they will soon have me back there.

THANKS SCOTT!!!

AXIS FOIL

AXIS LAUNCHES NEW WING MODELS FOR SPITFIRE FOILING

Imagine a dedicated surf foiling wing, that lets you foil waves like a surfer would. If you’re anything like us, you’ve been dreaming of an effortless turning wing, that inspires confidence when dropping in, that has a gentle, predictable easy lift up onto foil. A foil that not only handles breaches but encourages them. No wave is the same, sometimes you need a turn of speed, and on another you need to slow right down but stay on foil. A wing you can just forget about and get on with the business of enjoying yourself. Of course, that wing has to be capable of pumping you back out to do it all again and again. The wait is over, meet the AXIS Spitfire.

You’ll recognise it by its distinctive elliptical outline, straight median line and lack of aggressive turndown through the tips. Moderate chord lengths, that taper smoothly from the centre to the tips, encourage smooth, predictable but precise turning. Reduced foil thickness for enhanced top end to compliment the greater chords providing easy low end. Many of these attributes are shared by the ARTPRO Range of wings, and in fact much of what we learned in the development of that line fed into the Spitfire’s make-up.

Through the development process, we put the Spitfire through its paces. The smaller sizes are fast with explosive turning. The larger sizes are great for smaller spots and larger riders. The Spitfires are versatile front wings, able to ride waves or flat water across prone, SUP, winging, wake, downwind, lake pumping and kite foiling disciplines. They do it all.

Fiona Wylde Wins 2023 Gorge Wingfoil Race

Freewing

Steve Gates, the owner of Big Winds, and the Head Coach on the Big Winds JET Team, organized and planned this race. The idea was to always combine a downwind race on the world-famous Viento Downwind Run with a course race.

Professional paddlers from every corner of the globe descended on Hood River for more than just a weekend of racing, they came here for an experience.

Fast forward to the Gorge Paddle Challenge in 2023, times have changed, and the event has morphed, and now includes a kids clinic hosted by Wylde Wind and Water, and also wingfoil racing in both a donwwinder and technical course race formats.

Fiona race the FreeWing PRO 5m Wing together with Starboard 4’7 Take Off. Here’s the talented waterwomen’s reccap form the wingfoil event at the 2023 Gorge Paddle Challenge:

¨Since Wing Foiling has exploded, naturally the Gorge Paddle Challenge adapted to include Wing Foiling, with both a downwind and course race division. I wasn’t able to compete in the downwind race on saturday because of the SUP race, but I could compete in the course race! We raced three windward-leeward course races which consisted of three laps each race. The first start was a bit chaotic, but afterwards everybody settled in and we understood the system. I am super pleased with the way I sailed and ended up winning all three Wing Foil Course Races and the Wing Foil Pro Course race title¨.

Tell us how you started in the world of Stand up Paddle.

Desde pequeño, mi pasión era el Surf, aunque, viviendo en el Mediterráneo, solo podía practicarlo esporádicamente, cuando había olas. Por suerte, desde pequeño pude hacer viajes con mi familia al norte y a Cádiz. Recuerdo que con 7 años, viajamos a San Sebastián, y viendo a los surferos en “La Zurriola”, le dije a mi madre que, de mayor, quería ser surfista. Así que con 8 años empecé a hacer surf, y lo compaginaba con el fútbol. Estuve 8 años jugando de portero en el equipo de fútbol de mi pueblo. Además de hacer surf, también practicaba el SUP en las actividades deportivas del club.

A los 12 años empecé a competir en la prueba del Circuito mediterráneo que se celebraba en mi club. A los 14 años, tras competir en esta prueba, que me fue bien, me motivé y me planteé dejar el fútbol, ya que mi pasión, desde pequeño, era el mar. Se lo planteé a mis padres, y me apoyaron en la decisión. Así que dejé el fútbol, y me centré en iniciarme en el SUP, y disfrutar del Surf cuando pudiera.

Entonces inicié mi trayectoria en el Stan up Paddle, con Daniel Parres como entrenador, que me apoyó y me formó, desde el inicio, en este deporte. Formé parte del equipo del Club deportivo Parres, desde el año 2019 hasta finales del año 2021. A partir de enero de 2022, continué mi trayectoria deportiva en el Stan up Paddle, con el equipo OR Training.

Why do you think you got so hooked on Stan up Paddle instead of another sport?

Because it is a sea sport, which is my passion. When I started with Daniel Parres, I picked up the technique easily, and I liked the atmosphere of this sport, both in training and in competitions. It was a very healthy environment, and very different from football, and I was getting more and more hooked.

I began to compete in the “Sevilla Sup Festival” and in the events of the Mediterranean Circuit, and I was motivated. With my current coach, Óscar Ruiz, I have also learned to manage results, when things were not going well for me, to learn from mistakes and to take advantage of my potential.

It is also a sport, in which I have developed a good physical condition, with effort and perseverance, and it has given me a lifestyle that I am very happy with. Since the beginning, I have made very good friends. The environment that surrounds Stand Up Paddle, both in and out of the water, has motivated me a lot to continue and evolve day by day.

How do you see this year in terms of competitions and objectives? Which are?

This year 2023, I have competed in different Eurotour events, in the Mediterranean Circuit event that was held in May at “Campello surf club”, and in the Spanish long distance Championship, in Melilla. I am very proud of the result I obtained in the Spanish LD Championship, since, once again, after my result in 2022, I was in first position. This was my main objective in the first part of the season.

In the second part of the season, the next main competitions are the European Championship and the World Championship, although I am waiting to find out if I will be able to have a place to com pete in them. The next competitions are the Spanish Beach Race Championship, the Spanish SUP Waves Championship, the World Cup in Thailand, the Span ish Sprints Championship and some events on the Mediterranean Circuit.

My goal is to continue training hard, giving the best of myself, to be able to be selected for the European Championship, ISA and obtain the best results in all upcoming competitions.

You do different modalities such as Race and SUP waves. How do you complement them at the training level?

Most of the training is focused on the Race. Only on the days that we have waves in the Mediterranean, I replace the Race with the SUP Surf and the surfboard. Surfing helps me a lot to improve my level in SUP Waves.

We know that the OR training family supports you in this process of sports growth. What is it like to train with them?

Well, since I joined the OR Training family, these have been the best years of my sports career, since Óscar helps me and is by my side every day. In addition, we enjoy our trips, both to Fuerteventura and Somo, to train the whole team together, and when we travel to the championships.

It is a team that is very professional, but it is also very familiar. In addition to motivating ourselves, training hard and evolving day by day in sports, they teach us to have very positive attitudes and habits in life. I recommend it to everybody.

If I remember correctly, you are the Spanish long distance champion and the Spanish champion in sup waves. How has the path towards those goals been?

Training very hard, with a lot of effort and perseverance, and with the support of my coach Óscar Ruiz who helped me to trust myself since I set this objective as a priority for the season.

Next year you take the big leap to the elite category, how do you face it?

The truth is that very well, with a great desire to be there. I know that the training will increase in intensity, but I am very motivated to give the best of myself in this new stage.

Thanks to...

I want to thank all of you who support me, my parents, and my family. I also want to thank the support of the companies that have trusted me this season, making it possible for all of us to dedicate ourselves to Stand up Paddle: Campello Surf Club, Starboard Sup, Natural Distribution and Club Náutico de El Campello.

REPÚBLICA SUP RACE 2023

The Club Náutico Costa Blanca in the city of Alicante once again celebrated the República SUP Race, one of the classic competitions of the Mediterranean SUP Race Circuit and, in addition, the Spanish Cup of the Spanish Surf Federation.

After an entertaining fight for first place, in the men’s category between Iván de Frutos and Daniel Parres, it was the youngest who managed to cross the finish line first, ahead of his teacher and Parres Watersport teammate. Not so far and showing a great level, Sergio Cantoral achieved 3rd position overall.

As for the girls, the rider Alexia Soto dominated her race until the end, ahead of Inés Blin who got the 2nd position. Local athlete Laura Paricio took home 3rd place.

Both Iván de Frutos and Inés Blin also achieved the first positions in the SUB18 category, as well as Rubén Cantoral and Berta Ferré in SUB 16. This last category had the opportunity to start part of the route with the Elites, something that does not usually happen and on this occasion, it has been a great experience for all athletes.

This edition of República SUP 2023 was closed by the children’s categories, which offered a lot of emotion to the attending public and, as usual, made a highly visible route from any point on the coast. Thanks to the CNAB, the CMS, Fesuring, Calas de Alicante , SUP One, Clínica Torregolf, Up Suping and the entire República SUP team who have done a spectacular job to make this great event a reality.

VIII CITROSOL SUP RACE GANDÍA

The 5th event of the CMS2023 was held last Sunday, July 2, in Gandía, where more than 90 riders enjoyed a great day of competition in the VIII Citrosol SUP Race; a very established event in the eastern area and with an impeccable organization thanks to the work of the Gandía Surf Club team.

Riders of all levels had the opportunity to do different distances with all kinds of boards, being encouraged by the entire audience. Even for some of the participants, it was the first time they had competed in this type of race.

In the men’s category, the great Daniel Parres marked differences from the first minute against the rest of the participants. His great state of form and experience in these competitions was enough for him to climb, once again, to the top of the podium in the general classification. He was followed by Manuel Diez and Salva Mora, also great competitors of the Mediterranean SUP Race Circuit. On the girls’ side, the young Alexia Soto continues at her best as an athlete, and she was no less in Gandía, putting in a great performance and getting first place overall ahead of Inés Blin and Nuria Chiquero, the latter belonging to the SUB18 category.

Thank Gandía Surf Club, Citrosol, Dulcesol, Coasto, Vicky Foods Foundation, Gandía Sports and the Gandía Town Hall for their collaboration and great work. There are already 8 editions of this great event and each year it offers one more step in quality...and those that lie ahead!

HECATE CROSSING

--- by Bruce Kirkby / Norman Hann ---

CHAPTER 1: QU’EST-CE

QUE HECATE?

Lying off the northern coast of British Columbia, Hecate Strait is the notorious body of water separating the islands of Haida Gwaii from the mainland. Strong winds and tides are funnelled over shallow waters, and Environment Canada lists Hecate as the most dangerous body of water on the Canadian coast (fourth most dangerous in the world.) John Vaillant, author of The Golden Spruce, put it this way: The strait is a malevolent weather factory. During winter storms, waves can reach 10-20m and expose the sea floor. The result is one of the most diabolically hostile environments that wind, sea and land are capable of conjuring up.

For mariners, Hecate carries a daunting reputation; demanding respect and instilling trepidation. It is the site of many tragedies and much suffering.

The Haida once routinely crossed the Strait in their great cedar canoes (up to 60 feet long, 6 feet wide and carrying 100 men), pillaging coastal nations then retreating back across the moody waters, where few dared to follow.

The history of other human powered crossings is scant. Masset kayaker Chris Williamson made two attempts in the 90’s; one successful, the other turned back at night by changing winds. Legendary painter Stewart Marshall from Sointula sailed a homemade kayak 200 nm across Queen Charlotte Strait in a SE storm, surviving for three days on popcorn and coffee before arriving at Cape St James. In 2008, a group of four young Haida Gwaii men crossed in double sea kayaks as part of a fundraiser. But Google ‘Hecate kayak crossing’ and you won’t find much.

Certainly no one had crossed on a paddleboard when Norm and I started discussing the possibility five years ago. But neither of us cared about being ‘first’— that seemed totally irrelevant. Rather, we were drawn to the sense of unknown.

Could the substantial challenges Hecate posed be safely overcome using the skills and abilities we were slowly accumulating on coastal waters? What insights and lessons might travelling this ancient Haida route offer?

CHAPTER 2: THE PLAN

I met Norm at the Multiplicity (Whistler World Ski & Snowboard Festival) in 2016, where we were both speaking about past adventures. We shared a paddleboarding background. Norm was a successful racer who had transitioned to long coastal journeys. I had recently paddled solo around the outside of Vancouver Island.

When Norm called me a few months later, and asked if I’d be interested in trying to paddle across Hecate with him, I felt deeply honoured—and said YES unhesitatingly.

Soon we began planning, and watching weather. Over the winter, we met a few times in Squamish to paddle. The next spring we drove to Prince George, planning to carry on towards Haida Gwaii. But with a series of storms forecast to crash on the BC coast, we turned back and went home. Thank goodness, because in retrospect we weren’t ready.

For the next five years, we continued to watch Hecate’s weather patterns, while tackling increasingly challenging SUP expeditions together; a Gitgat Grease Trail, Cape Scott, Brooks Peninsula, Cape Caution. As our skills and sense of trust and teamwork grew, we felt increasingly ready.

Knowing that Hecate was ultimately in charge, and nothing less than a perfect weather forecast would do, we planned a journey down the northern BC coast this summer, both aware that if the stars aligned, and a weather window magically appeared, we’d drop all those plans and hightail it to Haida Gwaii.

CHAPTER 3: GETTING

IN POSITION

It was late May when Norm and I met at his home in Royston and drove to Port Hardy, where we had reservations on the 7am ferry. Sleeping in the back of my pickup, I awoke at 3am to the sound of Norm puking his guts out. We clearly weren’t taking the ferry that day.

For the next 24 hours Norm couldn’t even take a sip of water. What was it? Food poisoning? COVID? Flu? Should we turn back? Did it make sense to start such a journey depleted?

Two days later, with Norm feeling somewhat better, we jumped on the 18hour ferry to Prince Rupert. To our amazement, relatively light winds were forecast in the coming week, following a passing frontal system, but it wasn’t enough to convince us. We pitched a tent that night in a dark corner of the BC Ferry parking lot, unsure whether we’d jump another ferry to Haida Gwaii the next morning, or load the boards and start paddling south instead.

By morning, the light NW winds forecast for later in the week had bumped up to 5-15kn, not something either of us felt comfortable with. But the frontal system was already clearing, and tomorrow, in its wake, west winds would be followed by a period of ‘light and variable.’ If we could launch in less than 24 hours, it might just work. We bought tickets and by 10:30 were aboard a ferry headed to Haida Gwaii.

As the ferry chugged on, we emailed every friend and contact we had on Haida Gwaii, but no one could drive us north. It seemed we might miss the chance. In desperation, we started canvassing fellow ferry passengers–and we found Harmonie Rose. This delightful free spirit insisted we tie our two 14’ paddleboards to the roof of her tiny KIA, then raced off the ferry the moment it landed and drove us north to Masset, where she deposited us in the hands of Thor. Head of beach rescue, Thor is one of very few with the skills to drive Haida Gwaii’s endless beaches. As the sun dropped behind low clouds and darkness descended, he dropped Norm and I at the remote Fife cabin. Hecate strait lay before us; grey and moody. The next morning at dawn, we would launch.

CHAPTER 4: THE CROSSING

With a west wind behind us, we both understood that once we launched, there would be no turning back. The only way out would be through.

Few words were shared in the gray light of dawn as we strapped bags to boards, attached compasses, and double checked GPS way points. And then we were off. The first hour was a dream; a strong wind at our back pressed us over glassy waters. Despite preserving energy, we still covered 7.5km, which for fully loaded boards was great.

Then Hecate started to show us who she really was. Swell coming in from the north began hitting us on our rear quarter, and we had to concentrate. Then ebb turned to flood, and currents swirled. Soon an aggressive wind chop arrived from the south, hitting us on the other rear quarter, mixing with the swell and turning the ocean into a confused mess. Our progress slowed to a painful 4km/h.

The hours now passed slowly. We spent a lot of time alone with our thoughts. I tried hard not to focus on speed or progress—for it was dishearteningly slow. Just one more stroke. Then another. We never stopped. Snacks and gulps of water were grabbed between strokes. We saw nothing on those lonely waters; not a whale nor a boat.

Slowly the distant peaks of Stephen’s Island inched closer. 20km to go. Then 10. Dusk had descended by the time we made landfall. We’d been paddling for 11 hours, and it took us another full hour to find a camp along the rocky headlands. We crawled ashore, barely able to walk or even form sentences. But overjoyed. Somehow we got the tent up. Cooked a freeze dried meal. And then collapsed in our sleeping bags.

CHAPTER

5: THE OUTER ISLANDS

With Hecate behind, a huge weight had been lifted, leaving us free to enjoy the coast without reserve or worry. For years, the outer shores of Stephen’s and Porcher islands had filled our imaginations, and now we lazily paddled along rocky shores, exploring headlands and endless beaches, watching humpbacks feed and eagles soar overhead.

Norm and I have long been proponents of paddleboards as a safe and glorious way to explore wilderness coastlines, and this was expedition paddling at its very best.

A week later, with gale force northwesterlies descending, we ducked into the tiny settlement of Kitkatla, grabbed a boat back to Prince Rupert, and started the long voyage home

DISCOVER HUELVA FESTIVAL 2023

A hundred athletes met last July 22 at the Discover Huelva SUP Festival 2023. A national Stand Up Paddle classic, under the great organization of Club W. Isla Cristina and the Municipal Sports Service of City Hall of Isla Cristina. This has been the 8th edition, among which we highlight the presence of riders from the SUP national team and the young promises in the lower categories that show the great progress of this sport worldwide and that is reflected in the andalusian coasts

Up Suping Carlota Parras

But the bulk of the competition came with the SUB 14, SUB 16, SUB 18, Amateur and Elite categories, who dominated the waters of Isla Cristina with their boards and paddles. A spectacular visual image for all those who were enjoying the beach. For the Elite and SUB 18 categories it would be their first race of the day, since in the afternoon they had a second competition; performing at the end of the day the sum of the times of both races for the final classification.

Turning of buoys, carrying and overtaking offer a lot of spectacle to this racing model, without failing to add the intense heat present in this day of competition. On the Elite category, Antonio Morillo and Fernando Pérez from Cádiz offered a lot of excitement in the Elite category, where the latter won the victory in a final sprint reaching the finish line. The young local Augusto García got the first position in the SUB 18 and, for the women, Isabel Valverde crossed the finish line first ahead of the islander Rocío Bensaid, who finally won the first position in the day’s combined.

We also highlight the great results by Álvaro del Pino and Laura Ailing in SUB 14, Jorge Valenzuela and Blanca García in SUB 16, Marc Simoncelli and Lorena Mendoza in SUB 18; as well as the rest of the participants in these categories who have shown a great performance.

In the afternoon, the west wind come to the Isla Cristina beach, which was ideal for the second race for the participants of the Elite and SUB 18 category. Antonio Morillo, Fernando Pérez and Augusto García delighted us with a magnificent downwind, with a fascinating reading of the sea by these three athletes. But with about 200 meters to finish, Morillo put on the accelerator and managed to cross the finish line first, taking about 20 seconds from Fernando, which earned him the victory of the combined ahead of a friend of Los Canos. Augusto achieved the first position in SUB 18 and third overall.

Sergio López and Josu Allica climbed to the top of the podium in the combined Master and Kahuna categories correspondingly. And we also highlight the participation of some Amateur and youth riders who were encouraged to participate in this downwind, even if it was not scoring for these categories.

Late in the afternoon, under a magnificent atmosphere and with the presence of the authorities and sponsors, the ceremony and closing of the championship took place. And like every year, Discover Huelva, will continue betting and working for this type of competition in which federated competition and promotion among the little ones come together.

Thank the Institutional Support of the Junta de Andalucía, Andalucía European Sports Region, Huelva Provincial Council, the SMD of the Isla Cristina City Council, our coverage at sea with the Red Cross, Maritime Rescue, Civil Protection and the sponsors Brandt, Hotel Estival Isla Cristina, AWA Sun Glasses, Starboard, Usisa, Covey, 9:00 p.m., Masiá Ciscar, Heineken, Up Suping and Emilio and his great Windzone team who once again welcome us at their Center in the best possible way. We look forward to seeing you next year!

Istood up at two and a half years old. When I got it, I was diagnosed with a degenerative disease that promised me life in a wheelchair with a short life expectancy. I couldn’t climb stairs or run and any wrong movement would bring me to the ground, but against all odds, and despite my muscular weakness, my legs allowed me to walk.

STEPPING STRONG

Miguel Ángel Pastor Colomina KFD Fotografía. Up Suping

ll my childhood I have spent time in gyms and hospitals trying to strengthen and improve my musculature, with the uncertain hope that all this effort would serve to improve. When everyone went to have a snack and play in the park I was in a gym, I went to the hospital to do my exercises every day before going to school, I took advantage of the holidays to do treatments in rehabilitation centres and so on since I can remember.

ortunately, my initial diagnosis was not confirmed over the years and it seems that the reason for my muscle weakness had more to do with the fetal distress I suffered.

t puberty, when my body began to experience growth spurts, the worst came. My bones were growing, but my muscles were shortening, making it almost impossible for me to stay on my feet every day. I walked on tiptoes, without my heels touching the ground, fully thrown forward so as not to lose my balance and with many muscle pains throughout my body. I did not want to leave the house because of the possibility of falling at any time and in any place, or of feeling the exhaustion that a body in tension produces 24/7.

nd it was there, after my parents knocked on many medical doors with the same answer as always, nothing new for us: “Nothing can be done!”, when the possible solution to my problem went from being in a wheelchair to surgical intervention with totally uncertain results, but in which there was ONE possibility of improvement. So it was! After two complicated operations, my body responded! My heels touched the ground and my body straightened.

hree years later, the biomechanics of my body and the muscle tone of my legs are not perfect, but I walk with a firm step, without falling and without getting tired and what is most important to me...it has allowed me to enjoy a life that I couldn’t imagine before. I have been able, among other things, to get on a paddle surfboard and row, activities that, although they are normal for most people, for me are true triumphs and the result of a long journey travelled over 17 years. That’s why when I walk across that finish line in a SUP competition, inside I feel like a WINNER!

would like what I tell her to serve to empower and support many kids who, like me, have been born or have encountered physical difficulty along the way. Say what they say and whatever happens, don’t give up! Get out of the house and do what you like best! There are people out there who will help and support you. And keep going! because both you and me, my friend, have many finish lines left to cross.

edicated to my parents, who have never stopped paddling, to my sister for her patience and understanding, to Dr. Nazarov for existing, to all my family for their love and support all these years, to the Be Water Sports team and especially to my coach Isaac for allowing me to feel like one more and be part of this great sport and this great family.

Miguel ángel pastor colomina