STARTING SUPthing

JANUARY 2010


I knew in the Fall of 2009 I wanted one. Living by the coast, I had the opportunity to try a couple Stand Up Paddle Boards out in my surf break at San Onofre and right off the beach in Laguna.

I didn't get a board for Christmas so I set off to find myself a New Year's deal.  I found a warehouse sale in San Clemente on Craig's LIst and bought my first Stand Up Paddleboard in January of 2010 from Rick Karr at Rogue paddlesports. He did an excellent job explaining my options and limitations, since I wanted a board that could do it all: surf, tour & race. My all around board served me well for a long time. Thanks Rick!  Just two weeks later I entered my first race.

The Hano Hano was the perfect 'first race' and it continues to be one of my favorites. Race Director Dan Van Dyke puts on a flat water, inexpensive, well organized event that has something for everyone. I was hooked. Whether it was the return to competition, the endless possibilities for improvement, the friendly people or the aloha vibe of this rapidly growing, new sport, I knew I had found my new sport.