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Candice Appleby – Respect, Love, Karma and Grace

Posted on November 1, 2013 by Water Words

In the late 1980’s I had a writing assignment with a tennis professional that was funded by Wilson, the company that makes tennis balls. It seems that they had developed a tennis ball that could equalize enjoyment of a tennis match between two players of very unequal ability. When the ball was hit hard and directly (as in a shot from a strong player) it would react with a slow and low bounce as it hit the court on the other side. This would give the weaker player an easier shot to return. It seemed an amazing product.

The project lost funding and never made it to the marketplace, but some of the lessons I learned while writing for that project stuck with me. For one, I learned a very different meaning for the word “compete” than I had usually considered.

The word, compete, comes from Latin competere, “come together,” but in later Latin, it developed the sense “strive together,” which was the basis for the English term. During the field testing of the Wilson tennis ball, when players considered the “strive together” meaning of competition their reported enjoyment of the game and tennis in general was 7 and above (on a scale of 1-10).

Just yesterday I read a post by elite water athlete, Candice Appleby, after a Round 3 loss in the 2013 La Torche Pro surf event in France. Understandably, she was extremely disappointed with her performance. In spite of a very stacked heat with three of the top women surfing together, she simply and graciously reflected on her own performance and frustration at not putting together a “solid ride” in the heat.

According to Candice, “Every wave I caught, just seemed to reject me and I kept falling. Looks like my Sup Surfing World Title dreams will just have to wait until next year. 2013 just hasn’t been my year I guess. Maybe God is trying to tell me something. Hopefully I can figure out what that is soon. Until then, I’ll just have to keep healing my hand and work on my strengths. Thank you to everyone who has been cheering for me along the way. Your support means so much to me. Next year I will be back and ready to take on the many challenges I set for myself. Congrats to all of the girls who competed in this first year of the Women’sStand Up World Tour. We were all a part of history. Aloha & God Bless.”

We all know that it isn’t easy to report to friends, family and fans after a huge disappointment. To do so with such grace and respect for her fellow competitors is an Appleby trademark. In my role as content creator for my company, Water Words, I speak to dozens of elite and not-so-elite SUP surfers, paddlers, newbies and racers each week. It is always surprising and cool to hear how many mention a casual meeting with Candice at a clinic, an event or just on a beach. Again and again I hear an anecdote about how she has encouraged and inspired them – often without knowing who they are. Her generous spirit and fun-loving ways just seem to connect again and again.

What I wonder is: How did the performance of the entire group of elite women raise to a collective higher level because they “came together” in the competition, all striving for their best?

Working hard, training and hoping for a specific outcome or title is natural. Not attaining the goals we set for ourselves in a competition is heart breaking. Being able to circle back and put together a mindset that embraces the true meaning of compete, to strive together, we are able to frame our future efforts in a new way. The almost 40,000 Facebook friends who follow Candice know her attitude well. Some of the comments posted demonstrate how much respect and love for our sport and for fellow competitors resonates with us all. I have removed the names from the comments below and have paraphrased them – they are just an example of how the collective “we” reacted.

Tough break, tough girl, classy post. You may not have accomplished everything on your list, but your list towers over 99.999% of most people’s. Take comfort knowing you are much-loved & very well-respected around the world. “Paddle on girl”
Losing is just like winning at the top. Being humble and accept what you just got schooled on will only make you better tomorrow, next week and your next event. There is nothing in your world you can’t concur, wins come in many different forms and your friends believe you’re a winner.
Love your positive attitude! That’s what makes you a winner! Love and aloha to our SWEET girl!! XOXOXO
You are my inspiration.
You’re still awesome….I’m sure all competitors were aware of your presence….a true warrior you are
You are awesome for being a class act!!! Still holding your head high and not placing blame on anyone. Keep up the professional attitude.
Thank you for writing this Candice. It inspires us all to hear how you feel and that everyone, even Candice Appleby, has their moments. Don’t be too hard on yourself! Rest up and see you next year…can’t wait:)
Your grace in handling life is a great example…………
You suited up, you showed up, you did your best. High five!

65 – Medicare and Water Athletes

Posted on October 24, 2013 by Water Words

My seventh decade – bring it!

Imagine the 65 year old woman on Medicare – and then throw away the image that is most often visualized. Unless you “saw” a lean, strong, bold, fit, focused and fun-loving athlete you missed a trend that’s fueling many athletes above a certain age. Runners, cyclists, skiers and “sporty”-women build more than hard abs or a toned butt. They build resilience by working through pain, pushing onward and knowing the hard work will pay off. They gain a social network and optimistic perspective on life and potential. Water athletes have another aspect to their active passion – water! Water in lakes, oceans, rivers and bays add a non-jarring celebration of the senses.

Each athletic endeavor enjoyed by the 65+ year-old can deliver amazing benefits when training and practice are balanced with good coaching, listening to one’s own body and a respect for current abilities. This is true for all athletes, but leaps in importance as we journey into those upper decades. But – WOW! – the benefits rock our world.

My primary sport of choice (when I am not skiing, hiking, cycling or playing outside) is standup paddling and surfing. In the course of meeting plenty of my peers at races, at the surf break and simply paddling in beautiful places I have heard so many stories of survivors – survivors of accident, disease, loss, life disappointments and challenges beyond measure. These stories were most often shared without a whine, but rather with a smile and sense of serenity. We water athletes know that regular and consistent exercise fights anxiety and depression better than drugs. The ability to cope with the stress is directly related to the endorphins we have in our body. Because we regularly tap those endorphins we are able to do it when stress hits. Research shows that highly stressful emotional events (which seem to come in quick succession as we age and simply live those extra decades) can result in a permanent suppression of endorphin levels. It just makes sense – stimulate those endorphins with fun on whatever incredible body of water you can find. Get the SUP Perspective instead of what the pharmacy can provide.

Who the heck is THAT in the mirror? Have you ever been shocked by the wrinkles and sags that are the inevitable surprise of aging? Plastic is not the route to increasing our self-esteem. Self-esteem is defined as being capable of meeting life’s challenges and being worthy of happiness. Grab your paddle and fuel a steady stream of oxygen and nutrients to your brain to improve functioning. After a downwind cruise with friends or a training paddle across a mountain lake you feel ready to take on the world. As we gain those decades we need our self-esteem. No matter where you live there are professionals, clubs, groups and water that you can tap into as you develop into a water athlete. Watch that self esteem soar!

Getting older is not for sissies – you’ve heard that one and I bet you’re nodding “oh yeah!” right now. There’s a world of freedom in the journey. I recently threw my inflatable Naish ONE 12’6″ raceboard in a duffel bag and headed to Lake Las Vegas for the N1SCO World Championships. Was it because I am an elite racer and super -speedy? Heck, no. I write and tell stories. Did I compete with the rest of the wonderful water athletes aged 10 and teens through all the decades? You bet. My trophy? I finished the races, often in last place. I had trained and practiced. I AM a water athlete and i had FUN! (catch the video below and on the Elder SUP YouTUbe channel)

Sweet paddle – and thanks for the gear Sweet Waterwear

Racing is not the only way to feed your inner water athlete and suer-charge attitude and well-being. Just being out in nature, balancing on your board and paddling with your entire being is a treasure. Check out a recent Fall paddle in Central Oregon – then go find your stoke! This article is dedicated to so many who have inspired me – to name a few Peggy K, Suzie M, Nansee B, Dagmar E, Steve G, Ed S, Randall B, Dennis O, Gerry L … and the list goes on!

Share your stories by e-mailing me at Elder SUP

Who Won: Battle of the Paddle 2013

Posted on October 5, 2013 by Water Words

There was a moment during the 2013 Battle of the Paddle that will probably remain etched in my memory for a very long time. We were all packed like sardines 4-5 levels deep, shoulder to shoulder with our boards in hand. There were 400+ of us all waiting to hear the horn for “GO!” The sky was clear, the sun was warm and the set that was rolling in was waist high and beautiful. I felt the sand under my bare feet and the light weight of my KIALOA Hulu paddle in my hand.

That paddle and I had hundreds of hours and many, many miles of paddling together. We had surfed gnarly Pacific City in cold, chaotic waves. We’d gone up and down the Deschutes rRver through town and around High Cascade lakes all summer long. For several years I’d dreamed of being in that spot – at the start of the BOP. The stars had aligned and here I was! The usual pre-race butterflies simply didn’t hit me – I was super-charged with energy and happiness just being in the midst of so many people prepared to do a pretty challenging event. There was a possibility of a wave set hitting us all at the Hammer buoy turn, sort of like we had just seen with the elite paddlers . Whatever, I was ready!

To most, Battle of the Paddle is the race of the year. People flock to Dana Point, California to participate and watch the carnage of the elite race and to witness the top athletes of standup paddling battle it out. The event itself is one of the largest SUP races in the world with over 450 open competitors and close to 200 elite competitors. For me, it was a “bucket list” dream come true.

The green line went to the yellow buoy, our first sprint leg of the race. The black buoy is the infamous Hammer buoy

Suddenly the horn sounded and we were off! People were bumping boards, falling off, and running into each other. It was mayhem! I got hit from behind. I was being drafted by a guy who later told me he drafted me the entire race. That was cool since he was about 20 years younger. Did he realize he was drafting Granny? (LOL). I didn’t fall and somehow paddled up and over a few waves with a clear shot to the first buoy. That first turn was sketchy with people crowding and falling. I took a wide line far from the buoy and made a clean turn – the race was ON!

People were unbelievably friendly, apologizing for bumps, making way at buoys and generally chatting and laughing. Parents and kids on separate boards were using the event for a truly great shared experience. They were giving guidance, confidence and support when things got tough on the upwind and side chop legs. Time sped by, as did the 4.08 miles – too fast. I was savoring every moment from the feel of the waves breaking over my feet, to the pounding of my heart as I paddled hard, and the wonderful salty air and sunshine.

Before I knew it I was rounding buoy #1 for the last time and it was time for the sprint for the shore. I was shoulder to shoulder with another paddler and we were both giving it our all. A few hundred yards from shore a set came in and we both felt the first wave billow under our boards. We were ready as the second wave came up we paddled like crazy – I got it! What exhilaration to be propelled with a glassy wave all the way to the shore – holy cow!

A quick back step at the shore break allowed the wave to flow under my board, then it was JUMP ON THE BEACH – LEAVE THE BOARD, KEEP THE PADDLE AND RUN TO THE FINISH! Too soon it was over. But the epic adventure was just starting for the elite racers. With the OPEN class completed it was time for the elite finals. Spectators stood spellbound as the elite women, in their separate start, showed us what they were made of. It was absolute athleticism and SUP thrills. The elite men came next. If you haven’t followed the many videos and photos of that event Google it now! Kai Lenny, Connor Baxter, Danny Ching and every competitor gave us a show to remember.

Other dramas played out in the Open course and during the kids’ events. There were wins for all. One paddler in particular was Charles Webb. From an injury sustained in a motorcycle accident, Charlie competed as a paraplegic athlete and an “I can” champion inspiring us all. Riding out on an adaptive board, Charles Webb wheeled onto his vessel and with a nudge from the shore, embarked on the open water course. I saw him managing balance and paddling precision at the #1 buoy during the second lap of the course. Do yourself a favor and read about Charlie’s journey from rehab, to surfing to the Battle of the Paddle (article here)

My Kialoa paddle has opened so many door to this “elder” water athlete

At the awards ceremony I received a beautiful wooden paddle as a 1st Place trophy for my age group. I finished somewhere in the top 70% of racers – with about 300 in front of my finish and about 140 behind.

SO who won the Battle of the Paddle? You only had to be on the beach at any point during the entire weekend to know the answer. Every single person who was walking around with paddle in hand had a “win.”

Winners All! We were all part of a gathering of the best in the world and hundreds who were at their personal best. We had amazing weather, brilliant sun and epic events to watch. We took our paddles and our skills to the ocean and showed up. We put our paddles to the water and self-propelled ourselves over a course full of chaos and unknowns. We came from near and far to add our energy to a celebration of so many things we love about SUP, surfing, paddling, wind, waves, competition, tradition and camaraderie. We all won! Thanks to Sparky Longley and Gerry Lopez, the Rainbow Sandals family and all the sponsors who made the 6th Battle of the Paddle all that it is. (some stats)

BOP Stoke: Riviera’s Mike Baker

Posted on October 2, 2013 by Water Words

Mike Baker is happiest on the water

I was fortunate to spot an e-mail from Riviera Paddlesurf a few weeks before the 2013 Battle of the Paddle – there were Ron House race boards to rent. It wasn’t 30 seconds later that I had downloaded the rental form and e-mailed the contact person. I’d been wanting to participate in BOP since I heard of it years ago – and suddenly all the pieces were falling into place.

The Riviera Paddlesurf stoke began with the first enthusiastic words of greeting from Mike Baker who had promptly contacted me . “Hey, ” he said with energy, “you’re number one on the rental list, what would you like?” And it only got better from there. Riviera is a key sponsor for BOP and they take that role seriously.

Riviera Paddlesurf was born in Southern California back in 2007 and grew from a family’s love of SUP surfing. Riviera Paddlesurf, still family owned and operated, inspires people to live adventure-filled, healthy lifestyles. That type of lifestyle isn’t geared for just their customers. After hanging around the Team in the series of Riviera vendor tents at Battle of the Paddle I noticed a true connection with the ocean, aloha and SUP. Over the course of each day they’d take turns on short breaks, grabbing a board and a paddle and hitting the waves.

Not only that, when customers had a demo board out (particularly when it was “The Door“) every good ride or tricky move brought oohs, aaahs and a cheer from the team on land – hard at work. I should say that they worked long and hard. They were at the beach setting up at 7 am. Then at 6 PM when most vendors had shut down for the evening, the Riviera team was still there being available for last minute demos, to talk-story and to share expertise. My entire BOP experience was stellar, but made even more so by connecting with the Riviera team.

I’d never surfed at Doheny Beach and I had never done a surf session with a 12’6″ race board. Mike Baker was all smiles and confidence, “Don’t worry. You’re gonna love this Ron House 12’6″ race board.” He proceeded to give me pointers on the best place to head out past the breakers, growing bigger and glassier by the minute. He explained the drop off right at the shoreline and impressed me with the need to stand on the back of the board and let the shore wave slip under the board, then move on up and ride right into shore. “Practice everything you’ll be doing in the OPEN course race tomorrow until you’re confident. The fewer unknowns, the more fun you’ll have.”

I carried the board down the beach and paddled out toward the ocean-yellow buoy to warm up. Smooth and stable came to mind. It glided effortlessly through the water seemingly oblivious to side chop and bumps – that was comforting! I started to be a bit more aggressive, doing some tail turns and then heading for the break. The waves were waist to mid-chest high and came in predictable sets – nothing like the gnarly Oregon coast I’m used to. I turned to take my first wave – and that Ron House board caught it easily. I came back from a slight right to aim straight for the beach – gaining speed! Would I be able to get back on the tail in order to let the wave slide under me at the shore break?

Holy cow – YES! It was a terrific surf session with a few miles of paddling beyond the break. I was ready for the OPEN course – and eager. Back on the beach Mike was there to check out how it went. Tough to hide how thrilled I was.

There were so many “bucket list” firsts on race day it’s hard to recount them here (see short video below). The start=awesome. The crowds, the chaos as we leaped from beach to board and the choppy turbulence as we headed out to the first buoy. I haven’t been in a race where i got into my rhythm so easily. The upwind leg done three times was the hardest for me, although many people were challenged by the next leg with wind at the quarter and side chop. It was incredible to hear the chatter, observe amazing sportsmanship at the buoy turns and the woohoos toward the final sprint to the beach as we caught waves for that last bit.

One of the Riviera team was right there at the beach to grab my board and point me in the right direction for the final little run. He can’t know how much that care of both the board and simply being there for me meant at that stage. What a first class group providing customer service above and beyond. By the time the day was out I had learned the technical details and specifications that designed the Ron House race board to be what was perfect for the conditions.

That is not the end of the story. Mike made it possible for me to demo the Nugg on Sunday during the distance race. I surf regular foot and generally unless I take off on a steep left direction, I have to hop into “goofy foot” in order to dip my paddle and execute a turn from right to left. I was riding along on a nice swell that broke as I was going right. Looking over my shoulder I noticed it was building nicely to the left. Just that look left seemed to put a cut back in motion. I reached across with my paddle and dug it lightly in the wave to the left, stepped back just a bit and did a sweet cutback to the left. It was about the coolest feeling. Again and again and again I paddled out through the surf and got back in the lineup. It wasn’t until my lips were blue and my legs like jelly that I came back to shore. That sessions was the icing on the BOP cake!

Thank you Riviera Paddlesurf and Mike Baker

PS – I came in first in my age group – a bit of “icing on the cake.”

Kiwanda Wonder: From the Inn

Posted on September 20, 2013 by Water Words

I spent 52 years of my life in South Florida where I equated a “beach day” with sunshine, temperatures above 70 degrees and a bathing suit with sunscreen slopped on generously. For the past dozen years the Oregon coast has introduced an entirely new and amazing meaning to “a day at the beach.” Nowhere is it more wonderful than at what has become “My Little Beach Town” like it has for so many others. We took a late September long weekend at the Inn at Cape Kiwanda recently and were greeted by weather that – at one time – would have encouraged me to be indoors. Not now!

Overcast skies only served to bring us all a bit closer – to our toasty beach fires. The wind was barely moving the colorful kites streaming along behind flocks of kids using barefoot running for wind-power – fueled by giggles and glee. A toddling towhead decked out in cozy fleece danced close to the waves adding a glisten to the low-tide sand while his watchful dad put finishing touches on the sand castle. Two sprightly seniors were sipping coffee mid afternoon as the tide began to switch from low to high. As the glassy waves built into more organized sets, they hopped up, donned their wet-suits and headed out for a standup surf session. I have to admit – the two seniors were me and Ed.

It was so much fun catching wave after wave, even though the rides were short that afternoon, the waves were glassy goodness over and over again. We came ashore and back to our room (and the toasty fireplace) in time to shower and dress for the 5:30-6:30 Friday night wine and cheese sampling party in the lobby of the Inn at Cape Kiwanda. This week’s end ritual begins with few people knowing each other – but soon conversation is lively. We took turns checking out the birds on the haystack with the telescope in the lobby. As we snacked on fruit and cheese we recalled the day’s fun – how many hiked up the dune and took photos of the awesome view. Those who hadn’t quickly made plans for the next day. As the hour wound down a few of us lingered by the fireplace while others made plans to meet for dinner at the Pelican Pub.

Saturday morning dawned a bit foggy with the haystack rock rising ghost-like out of a low bank of cloud. Again, it was no time to remain indoors and miss the wonder. As we walked across the parking lot of the Pelican Pub we had to look twice at what we were seeing. A lone guy was standing mid-way between the waves and the dunes doing – something? The air between him and the fog was all glimmering with light refracted somehow into rainbows in the shape of a sphere. Holy cow! He had a bucket of soap and a huge bubble blowing wand. He’d dip the wand into the bucket, hold it high and allow the light morning breeze to billow out bubbles nearly 4 feet in diameter. They would bounce and dance for a bit then disappear in a poof.

In a light drizzle that was mixed with peeks of sunshine in the blue windows between the clouds we took our coffee out to the beach for our walk down to watch the dory boats launch for their early morning catch. After a hike up the dune at Cape Kiwanda we began to make our way back to enjoy breakfast on our balcony. As we were strolling back, the muted hoof beats of a group of horses caught our attention, just in time to snap another photo of what makes Pacific City beach wonderful in every sort of weather. Don’t miss it!

The Inn at Cape Kiwanda

SUP Professionals: Amazing Leaders

Posted on September 7, 2013 by Water Words

For Immediate Release

September 7, 2013

SUP water athletes are pioneers in a young sport that’s growing exponentially each year. Almost anyone of any ability level or age can find success and SUP adventure on almost any body of water. Over the past decade standup paddling, surfing, exploring and racing has grown from unknown to a sport followed by millions. Leading the culture, training, story and growth of the sport are a handful of elite athletes. Some of these men and women have been nominated for the 2013 SUP Awards. The categories you can vote for between now and September 11 are: Top 3 Male Paddlers, Top 3 Female Paddlers, Movie of the Year, Top Philanthropic Effort and Top Expedition.

Connor Baxter #1 SUP Male Athlete 2012

Candice Appleby #1 Female SUP Athlete 2012

Take a look at the nominees and explore the bio of each – SUP is fortunate to have a field of leaders this deep and diverse. Examples of leadership include addressing issues around racing, professional compensation and equality in the sport. Take a look at the discussion and insights from one group of female athletes that took place during the Naish Gorge Paddle Challenge in Hood River, OR.

Over the years Elder SUP has showcased a number of the nominated athletes. After you check out the field at SUPthemag.com you may want to learn more by checking out the articles.

Connor Baxter and his inspiring slogan, “Always have fun and never give up.” Connor Baxter was awarded #1 Male SUP Athlete in 2012 (video here)
Candice Appleby – Candice Appleby was awarded #1 Female SUP Athlete in 2012 (video here)

Karen Wrenn
Suzie Cooney
Chuck Patterson
Jenn J. Lee

The list is above is just the tip of the iceberg – do yourself a favor and read the online bios of the athletes leading our sport. Then take the time to let your voice be part of the decision.

SPONSORS of the 2013 SUP Awards

SUP Insights: Dave Chun & Aha!

Posted on September 3, 2013 by Water Words

Prepping for the Naish Gorge Paddle Challenge a few weeks ago the goal was to increase my speed over a 5 mile distance. Little did I realize how insane the upwind legs of the Sunday course race would be – 4 gnarly laps! The training I did was adequate – but the level of fatigue I had over the next week pretty much let me know that I pushed my limits endurance-wise. Even with the great advice shared by Candice Appleby before the race, I knew I wasn’t getting every ounce of speed or power from the efforts of my paddle strokes.

It wasn’t until I got back home and went out for a training session that the most valuable insight of my weekend at the Naish Gorge Paddle Challenge really hit home. I had been hanging out with a group of people all chatting in the KIALOA Paddles tent before the awards on Saturday. A few strong looking paddlers from Vancouver were asking Dave Chun about which paddle to add to their KIALOA quiver, As it usually does with Dave Chun, conversations about paddles tend to morph into conversations about design and technique. He’s so passionate and knowledgeable about every aspect of his life’s work he simply can’t help it.

The guys were skilled at both outrigger paddling and standup. So in the explanation, Dave was comparing and contrasting body position, stroke and technique. Always eager to learn more I listened like a fly on the wall. It seemed that recently I’d honed my reach and blade entry into the water, but there was always room to refine things even more. All the phases of the stroke have to work together smoothly for the stroke to be efficient and without good reach and catch, the stroke won’t be effective.

Dave was explaining aspects of the “catch.” The “catch” is the point where the blade is fully buried and locked onto the water. It is natural that the stroke begin as you begin to put the paddle into the water. You will naturally begin to pull on the paddle and begin to apply pressure to the water with the blade, even before the blade is fully buried. SO, it is important to “bury the blade” relatively quickly. The paddle should not “float” down to the water. Reach and drive the paddle into the water and make the catch as far in front of you as possible. Since ALL of the stroke is in front, and never behind your body, the more in front of you that the paddle gets fully buried and makes the “catch” the longer stroke you will have!

While I don’t always execute the reach and set-up, followed by a great catch, I had heard this before. What I never “heard” before was a key bit of information. Dave explained that a mistake that’s sometimes made is to begin pulling the paddle back or attempting to begin to drive the board forward before the catch has been completed. It’s a brief second of time, but important to fully execute the catch before moving through the paddle stroke. The focus should be on entering the water smoothly and quickly with the paddle edge slicing into the water cleanly, creating minimal turbulence. Once the blade is fully submerged and “planted” it’s time to apply the power. If you start pulling too soon, the blade tends to cavitate (air bubbles form along edges of blade) and will slip through the water instead of holding.

Planting the paddle: That was something I never thought about – and probably rarely did. So eager to turn over another stroke, I did a reach-catch-pull without getting that minute time period of allowing the blade to “plant.”

Paddling in wind, paddling currents upstream and down all make it difficult to really determine the impact on speed or efficiency that a single change might deliver. Yesterday as I did my 60 minute training session I picked a section of the river that would be somewhat consistent over the hour. Wearing a heart rate monitor I did 1-mile loops up and down stream. The miles flew by, maybe because so much concentration was going into refining that catch and “plant.” In any event some things were both cool and surprising.

My average time per mile was about 25 seconds faster. My heart rate per minute was 5-8 beats per minute slower. That led to a perceived exertion that was less – while going faster. My limitation when racing is usually central (my heart rate rockets off the chart) before my muscles beg for relief. This was fun! Our sport can keep us refining skills and learning constantly – and that’s just one more thing to get us back on the water working hard again and again and again.

SUP for Everyone: Naish ONE

Posted on August 22, 2013 by Water Words

Giving it my all in the OPEN Course race – so much fun!

Last weekend I competed in the Naish Columbia Gorge Paddle Challenge. Compete is not the right word. Let’s just say that I was on my board and paddling in both the downwind and course OPEN class races and having a blast. Energy was high, the elite paddlers were exciting to watch and meet and the wind conditions kept us all on our toes. The paddlers from the BigWinds JET team were inspirational, and true ambassadors for both our sport and their coach, Steve Gates.

Bonnie Fromm leading our OPEN Women’s Course Race

If I had to think of one disappointing part of the weekend, it was that I won both a first and second place award. I had paddled hard and enjoyed catching glide after glide on the Saturday downwind event – and then because there were only two of us in the age 50+ category riding a 14′ board I was fortunate to win (out of two??). Then on Sunday’s course race the real “win” was showing up and participating. The wind cranked furiously through the Gorge and made our 4 laps on the upwind leg and turning at the downwind buoy a mega-challenge. I remembered to have fun – and I charged out of the water at the end of the event pretty darn stoked! But placing second out of two (YAY! Bonnie Fromm rocks with the win) in the 50+ age group was no cause for celebration. The participation was the prize.

I was puzzled as to why there weren’t more women in our OPEN classes. What could be done to turn the avid SUP paddlers on shore into participants rather than spectators? How could all the organization, effort and energy of the race management team be shared among more OPEN athletes? The elite classes were full of amazing, world-class competitors. What about the rest of us? What sort of race event could generate entries and participation across a more broad bunch of paddlers?

I didn’t have to wait long for the answer. Steve Gates and the team from Naish had a super-cool event planned. They had a fleet of Naish ONEs (12’6″ inflatable one-design boards) on the beach and ready for a team relay event – with rules that leveled the playing field for any participants. The Team Relay was a fun four person relay race contested on a short course right in front of the spectator viewing area at the Waterfront Park (Hood River, OR) . Each Team was required to have at least one athlete under age 16 and one female. The young paddler and the female couldn’t be the same person. Elite athleteswere placed onto teams by the Race Director, Steve Gates of BigWinds. The Relay Race was run all on Naish One boards,

As he announced the rules, Steve Gates explained the fun-factor of the “race, “Go out and have a blast with the Naish ONE boards. They are inflatable and forgiving if you run into each other or fall off. They’re just right for any size or skill-level. This is a fun a event, be prepared to get wet and laugh.” Well, that is exactly what happened.

Elite racer (and overall women’s winner) Fiona Wylde and friend ready for Naish ONE fun

The elite athletes, as you can see from the photos. were having as much fun as the 10-year-old kids. Even though the elites had just completed 5 loops in a gnarly, windy course they were back to play. The spectators loved watching. One of the coolest things for me was to see people lining up to have a chance to demo the Naish ONEs once the event was over. The “have-fun” spirit of the relay event seemed to last. People were paddling, sharing tips, bumping into each other, practicing tail-turns and buoy turns and generally sharing a hefty portion of aloha. And isn’t that what it’s all about? (Click on each image for a larger image)

I am looking forward to seeing more events like the Naish ONE team relays. I expect as people gain experience and confidence in that laid-back race venue they will take a chance with an OPEN event or two. Racing, like life, is a lot more fun when we focus on the experience more than the outcome. The next place I know of in which there will be Naish ONE fun will be in Las Vegas in early October – read more here.

SUP Mentor: Candice Appleby

Posted on August 20, 2013 by Water Words

One year ago I had never set foot, or paddle, in the mighty Columbia River. I planned to be a spectator at the Naish Columbia Gorge Paddle Challenge. At the last minute, some confidence-building from Brit Oliphant and a 20-second chance conversation with Candice Appleby gave me the boost needed to “GO!” when the horn blew to start the downwind race in 2012. This year I had a bucket list goal: participate in both the downwinder and the course race no matter what the conditions.

The wind blew enough for the downwinder to make it fun and then it cranked up a few notches and nearly blew us off our boards on the 4 upwind legs of the course race. At the end of the weekend you’d think that the coolest stoke would have been from competing in the events. That wasn’t so. As in most great parts of life, the real stoke comes from the people and connections. Al Paterson who wrapped engaging stories and accurate commentating around every minute of the event was one such person. Seeing the smiles on the face of Steve Gates as he supported, inspired and just plain had fun watching his amazing team of JET athletes on the water was another treasure.

Steve Gates is the heart and inspiration behind this amazing team of young water athletes

On Friday afternoon, Ed and I were sitting by the water watching some of the elite athletes out practicing. Among them was Candice Appleby. You can call what she was doing “Practice” but there is no doubt that she was simply having a blast. She was negotiating tail turns and maneuvers again and again, all with a big grin and “wooops” when she’d splash in the river – back up for more.

Fun as it was it had to be exhausting, but you’d never know. From there Candice headed to a photo shoot with a few other of the elites and the next thing I saw, she was dashing around on the lawn playing tag with a few giggling kids. Throughout the weekend, parents would stop with their young paddlers to get a bit of advice or have a chat with Candice. No matter how close it was to a starting horn or how many others were around, Candice always seemed to have the time to connect, to talk, to hand off one of her hats and to make someone’s day!

She’s got time for the young – and the old. Both days I was the oldest female athlete on the courses – any win was a function of the minimal number of participants over age 50 (or 60!) This year I was fine doing the downwinder with Ed. In fact, couldn’t wait to jump into that one. The course race with the wind blowing stink X 3 was another thing. Standing on the beach before the event Candice came by to see how I was doing. A few pointers on staying aerodynamic upwind and a quick demo of how to execute the short choppy strokes that could power me upwind changed the butterflies into readiness.

The race that started before the OPEN Women was the grom race. One youngster who seemed to be about 10 was not crying, but close to it. Her mom was doing her best to share confidence. Candice strolled over and checked out the situation. A few minutes, a few smiles later with new determination that little girl leaped to her feet at the start horn and paddled her way into windy chaos, never looking back!

Sprained ankle taped and ready to GO

The OPEN race began, and we all set off. It was grueling to reach that first upwind mark. Candice had told me to gather my balance and mindset after turning that mark for the downwind leg. Good to remember. I had some water, eased my breathing steady and got some glides going. I am not even going to talk about the chaos and challenge that turning the downwind mark to begin the uphill battle back upwind was. Suffice it to say I was exhausted by the time I made my way toward the turning buoy on the beach after lap number one.

But from there, things got better. The wonderful JET girls in their bright orange shirts were fun to paddle around. Hearing them cheer and tease each other, give space at the buoys and generally compete with heart fueled the next few laps. As I approached that challenging downwind turning mark for the last time I noticed Candice was in the water warming up doing repeats up and down wind by the shore. Somehow she noticed me coming and gave a cheer that added energy to that last turn. Heading toward the beach and the end she got a pretty big smile from me as I set up my position and strokes for the most power in that last segment.

I don’t know how she balances it all. The world of an elite standup paddler is full of endless training, endless travel, and the need to be both leader and ambassador for our fledgling sport. These elite women certainly don’t do all they do for the money, that’s another issue entirely. For the many SUP athletes who benefit from athletes like Candice and their inspiration, we have the task of taking that example and making it our own. No matter what our experience or records of wins/losses, we all have something we can share. Thanks for the example and for the inspiration, Candice Appleby.

SUP Travel: Hood River, OR

Posted on August 19, 2013 by Water Words

Summertime in Hood River, Oregon is a miracle of wind, sunshine, fruit, flowers – and the playground that is the Columbia River Gorge. No matter what you choose to harness the wind or ride on the water you’ll have plenty of long days to enjoy the experiences. Come evening, you’ll want to rest your head someplace that has your comfort as the highest consideration. We have camped, stayed at a wide variety of local hotels and B&B choices, but our favorite has always been the Hood River Inn (Best Western Plus) managed for over 25 years by Chuck Hinman.

We enjoyed a similar moonrise the nights we stayed at the Hood River Inn (Best Wwestern Plus)

The Hood River Inn is located on the Columbia River shoreline, offering lodging with scenic river views, water access, and a private beach. We found that the Hood River Inn offers a generous combination of deluxe accommodations and amenities: (read more here). As standup paddlers, it just seems right that our first real awareness of the proximity of the Hood River Inn to the Columbia River, Hood River Waterfront Park, the Event Center and awesome Columbia Gorge views came during a standup paddle cruise from Mosier to Hood River. Our video story follows this article.

When we travel, one thing we value most is absolute cleanliness in our accommodations. Once that’s covered we start looking for the details in up to date decor, inviting hallways, top-quality bedding and impeccable bathrooms. You won’t be disappointed at the Hood River Inn. After a long day on the water few things hit the spot like a hot shower – in a luxurious and well-appointed bathroom. Finish that off with a lush towel that absorbs well and exudes freshness. These things really matter to even the most hard-core water athlete.

Then it’s time for food. Chef Mark DeResta’s choices of fresh and local ingredients are combined to provide a vast array of choices to suit almost any taste. Check the Riverside’s website for full details. Our experience is detailed here. If you’d like to check out the menu, here is the link.

After an active day, what we really liked was the walking path that meanders from behind the Hood River Inn, around the marina and over toward the river, the spit and the event center. Without getting back in the car we could view changing colors as the sun set beyond the Columbia Gorge and foothills on the Washington side of the river. We could watch evening flights of kiteboarders and waterbirds alike. When we tired of the outdoors we could head inside for a beer, cocktail or coffee and listen to local music in Cebu Lounge. While we could enjoy food from Riverside in Cebu, the weather was so good during our stay that we had to dine outdoors every chance we could.

Back in the room, Ed enjoyed watching golf and sailing on the huge flat-screen TV while I Facebooked and e-mailed a bit with the high speed wifi (free) in the room. Once it was time for sleep, comfort was waiting for us. Top quality bedding, plenty of pillows and a remote that let us alter air-conditioning without running to the unit.

The best surprise was yet to come. We knew that breakfast was included with the room so in the morning we headed down for coffee expecting “the usual.” Imagine our surprise when wait staff as friendly and attentive as we had at dinner the night before greeted us with menus and offered us a wide variety of full breakfasts – at no cost. The first nine items on the menu were the options we had. Everything was served hot and promptly. The grain toast was a treat. We tried four different items during our stay and enjoyed them all.

Fresh flowers, attentive and knowledgeable staff all complement the excellent, fresh food at Riverside. The view – see for yourself!

Plan ahead and make reservations so you don’t miss the Hood River Inn experience when you’re in Hood River enjoying SUP fun.

Sometimes, words alone are not enough to share an excellent experience. The following video can complete the story of the Hood River Inn in Hood River, OR

Elder SUP

Connecting Across Generations and Oceans

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