Last week Kristi started with Surfing Victoria and Sports Education Development Australia SEDA and it has been a couple of big weeks.
They had their 1st surfing session and it was a real eye opener for all concerned. It was one of those mornings that a Stand Up Paddler dreads 15kn+ onshore mush but when you have to go you have to go!
Kristi managed to stay upright for the majority of the session 1 1/2hrs to the amazement of most and caught 4 waves, nothing special but there wasnt much face to work either. She also got cleaned up quite a few times too but the new nose handle we are expeimenting with saved her bacon to say the least.
The quality of the surfing these kids dished out in the crappy conditions was a real eye opener.
The difference between a 7'10 Laguna and a 5'2 DHD well nough said!
Mick the instructor wondered over and said "I have never seen anyone catch a wave on an SUP before how strong must your core be to be able to stand up in the choppy conditions and wind". You could literally hear his mind ticking over "Cross Training".
Kristi came out of the water saying "I need more speed did you see some of those moves"
These 16 - 18 year old kids shortboarders, longborders and now a SUPer work together, coach together and surf together sharing experiences and helping each other.
Kinda great to see!
Spot the SUPer
When shooting these images, I got asked by several people when did SUP join the SEDA group?
These kids rip
On average Kristi's 7'10 Laguna Bay (short for SUP) but is 18 inches longer than most being surfed, the nose handle saved Kristi from the white water a few times.
Tully we have a few questions, suggestions and challanges coming your way.
Lacey I think that shortboard bug may have finally kicked in
Phill
62Mac, Mick the instructor on the day is one of the senior staff for the whole SEDA program and has coached football and all sorts of other sports, he was just filling in for Stui the Surfing Coordinator who was on a course in Melb on the day. Stui has a SUP and tons of surfing experience all good!
I think Mick might be getting a paddle board though!
Phill