Introducing, the hottest water sport activity that everyone is talking about - Stand Up Paddle Surfing, also known as SUP for short. What is it about SUP that makes it so special?
First of all, it's similar to surfing in the sense that you require a board. But in SUP, you also need a paddle. This helps you navigate through the water while standing. When you surf you usually paddle out into the water, wait for the waves, then jump on your board to ride the waves. But with SUP you don't necessarily need a wave to enjoy the sport. You can paddle out on the open ocean, in harbors, on lakes, rivers or any large body of water. It is an intense sport that works out your "core" strength and tests your balancing abilities.
Some say SUP originated from Polynesian culture. It is called Ku Hoe He'e Nalu in the Hawaiian language - which means to stand, to paddle, and to surf, a wave. Interestingly, it began in the 1960s when beach boys of Waikiki would stand on their surfboards and paddle out to the water to take pictures of tourists learning to surf. And so the sport became fondly known as Beachboy Surfing. Another important contribution to SUP is John Zabotocky who is the oldest beach boy surfer in the world - he has been paddle surfing along the shores of Hawaii since the 1940s.
SUP grew rapidly as a competitive sport. In 2004, it began to make waves (pun intended) when Brian Keaulana, a distinguished Makaha beachboy, decided to add "Beachboy Surfing" to the world-famous "Buffalo Big Board Contest." Since then, there have been many competitions and races worldwide that recognize and celebrate this highly innovative sport. For example, the very next SUP event is on August 29th - Hawaii Paddleboard Championships (aka Duke’s Race). For a list of event dates, click here*.
There are certain SUP ettiquettes that you should follow once you decide you are ready to test out your skills on the open water.
1) Don't be a "wave hog." Let other surfers ride the waves too. Since you have a better vantage point, be a chum and call out the good sets for others.
2) If you are a beginner and want to practice your skills, stay out of a crowded area.
3) Wear a leash if you're in a crowded surf spot. This will help keep your big board safe for all.
Because of its increasing popularity, there is a variety of SUP gear for you to choose from. According to Hawaiian Water Sports, for beginners they recommend a 9'6" to 11'0" for ladies, and 11'0" to 12'0" for gents. Their bestselling item right now is the C4 Waterman that comes in various styles. If you are interested in having SUP surfing lessons from them, ask to speak to JD, Kanai, or Micah. They are experienced teachers who have participated in competitions for years and are certified lifeguards and CPR-trained, so you can rest assured you will be in good hands. Click here* to receive coupons for 50% off for Group Lessons and Rentals!
"We specialize in surfing local surf breaks close to Diamond Head and away from the crowds in Waikiki. Our surf lessons emphasize safety and explain conditions, the art of catching waves, how to stand and ride waves. You are guaranteed to ride waves"
- Hawaiian Water Sports
For more information on Stand Up Paddle Surfing visit -
Website: www.hawaiianwatersports.com
Address: Hawaiian Watersports (Diamond Head), 415 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
Tel: 808-739-KITE (5483)
Photos are credited to hawaiianwatersports.com and standuppaddles.com
No comments:
Post a Comment