Surf's Up!!!

Well, it's been a great couple of weeks with a full weekend of Surf Zone classes last week and Advanced Strokes & Rescues yesterday and Rescues Rescues Rescues on Sunday. More on the Rescues class in 20-30 knot winds in the next post ;)

Last weekend began with the gang for the Surf Zone classes checking in to our rented house in Seabrook Village just north of our classroom at Pacific Beach. We all got quickly settled then headed off to the Mill (pub) for a bite and beers.

The next morning started off a frosty 34 degrees, but warm sun and rising temps dominated the day as 4 students outfitted in their Kokatat drysuits got ready to take on the Surf Zone for the first time. Into the surf they went, with no paddles.......why not, it's the best way to become more intimate with the body/boat connection. Working in teams they helped each other by directing their partners boats into, sideways, and ultimately surf into the beach sans paddle. Partners switched positions and repeated all with great results. I find that by starting students off in the surf in a controlled environment creates less dependency on the paddle and reduces the need to over brace placing more dependance on refining their balance. After lunch brought on back deck rescues in the surf and more fun with waves. An exhausted lot they were as we packed up for the day and head back for a major feast of more TriTip, pasta, salads, bread and libations that most could handle. Sunday's students had arrived for the overnight stay at the house to join the feast and fun for the evening. Oh, did I mention Adrienne hand rolling in the surf..... for fun......more times than I care to count ;) You've come along way girl!

We awoke Sunday to completely frosted over boats, cars, and streets at below freezing temps. Staying overnight five minutes from the classroom the is the way to go. Sleeping in and a breakfast of left over TriTip steak, lasagne and begals with friends is a great way to start a frosty day. Well, the day never really warmed up, but the students for the Total Control Class took it all in stride and attacked the waves on every exercise I gave them. While several students were taking a break I coached John as he held his place in the break zone of at least six 5 foot quasi-dumpers only to get back surfed once from not applying enough forward power against the wave. He stayed upright and came away from his accomplishment with a huge feeling of accomplishment for a job well done. Watching Mark, one of my most diligent students, so comfortably back surfing on 3 footers left me with a big smile. He's earned this moment. The day ended with a good meal, a 3 hour drive home, and great memories of students taking on a new challenge and rising to meet it. I am blessed to have such driven, committed students.

They are why I do what I do.

Thanks To John Tiscornia and Mark Morel for the photos