Maine Paddling Connection Blog
Back in November last year Tim Chandler of TRY Standup and myself started talking about an ACA L3 Surf SUP Instructor Certification Course in California. California is known for surf and this course has never been delivered in this state. A few months of back and forth emails and Tim was at work organizing and hosting the course.
Read MoreWhat an awesome weekend. There was just so much good energy being passed around Steamer Lane this weekend that it would've been difficult to not have fun and feel refreshed. I had a blast spending time in and out of the water with friends, watching the pros compete and scoring some fun rides on well-formed Santa Cruz waves - a rare treat.
Read MoreThe Santa Cruz Paddlefest weekend came and went in a flash. I've attended this event as a spectator for the last 6 or 7 years, since before I even lived in California. This was the first year I've ever competed in the event and the first time I've ever surfed in a competition. It was super fun!
Read MoreIn a whirlwind tour with a disparate crew of Bay Area paddlers I finished off 2013 and started up 2014 on a standup vacation! For four days we called the Black Canyon home and relaxed in it's beautiful surroundings. Warmed and cooled by the sun and the shade, we camped, we paddled, we laughed, we ate, we soaked, we relaxed. On top of all that, we paddled upriver - one of my favorite things.
Read MoreSunshine and warm weather can sure help you have fun. I spent the weekend in Cape Kiwanda on the Oregon Coast for the 5th annual Lumpy Waters Symposium hosted by Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe. That crew operates as a true team and does a fantastic job delivering a fun & safe event for all.
Read More9 paddlers, one panga and 5 days of Sea Leader Training. While in Baja this week, I sat in on a BCU course run by Ginni Callahan and Santiago Burreuta of Sea Kayak Baja Mexico. As an observer, I had the best job - no responsibility, no stress. I helped when they asked, when they were set, I simply paddled.
Read MoreAs many trips do, this one had a goal. It wasn't clear, but it clearly involved spending time on myself & resetting for a major change. I recently left my job in search of something more meaningful and more fulfilling, and a trip to Baja seemed a good starting point. So far I'm feeling way more 'in touch' with myself and am taking the time to listen to my body.
Read MoreJust before noontime on Thursday I got that stir-crazy kind of feeling like If I didn't get out of the house soon, I was gonna go nuts. The surf was reported to be small, but clean and ridable and a perfect day to surf longboats. Kayak surfing hasn't been on my mind though - the fourteen foot standup board has. At 14 feet it's pretty darn long for a surf outing but I figured if I can handle long kayaks surely I can handle this huge board.
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