Hooked?

[Surfershane]

I was sailing down the East Coast of Australia last month and happened into Coffs Harbour the day before a SUP and outrigger canoe regatta.  How stoked was I to find the reps from Starboard and a few other companies lining up their demo models for free use over the weekend.  It had actually gotten to the stage where I was eying off people paddling SUP's around my boat with the intention of bailing them up on the beach and asking them for a go. It seemed like I was going to have a great weekend!

Well it was like instantly addicted.  Those things are a cross between surfing and bass fishing from a Canadian canoe. Thanks to all the time I have spent doing both, the board and paddle felt natural.  Every now and then I even felt like reaching for my rod and plopping a lure in the corner.  At this stage I though this a bit unnatural, but since I have discovered people do fish from the things.  Then I can remember having a nearly hour long conversation with Kelly Slater at a pro comp function over here before he started winning all those world tittles.  Maybe these are inspiring thoughts that might even prove those that rip are real people after all?

Now I just can't wait to get my first SUP.  The exact model I am after won't be in stock till mid next month and the wait is causing much anxiety.  Sure its going to be another big learning curve, but maybe that's exactly what I need?

[Surfershane]

The even better news is that the Surftech rep over here has got me one of the original Laird ten footers at a really good price.  Its a big refined single-fin with powerful lines.  I just can't wait till it arrives.

Then if I had the thing today I could have got an even better look at that 6-8 foot shark that was cruising along behind the break.  Luckily it swan out to sea just before it got to me, but I am guessing that paddle might have otherwise also came in handy!

[Surfershane]

I was wondering why the late arvo session was so uncrowded and then I got told about the shark attack at Redhead.  It happened roughly an hour and a half after the shark I mentioned above headed back out to sea just off me.  I am sure too it was the same type; it was dark and solid like a bull or white.  Coincidentally, the victim was also my age. Owch!

http://au.news.yahoo.com/nsw/latest/a/-/latest/12648193/man-mauled-bull-shark/

[cole gnar]

Oh man! Sounds like you lucked out. That's unreal

[cole gnar]

Have fun on your board! Should be sick.

[Surfershane]

Thanks Cole,

I got the new board today, but by the time I sorted out a bigger fin it was too late to shorten my paddle and wax her up.  If it wasn't for the horrid weather and restrictions on the harbour due Australia Day fireworks, I might have done an after-dark thing.  Well, till tomorrow I will just have to dream about her lines like I was dreaming about her arriving.  Sweet dreams everyone!

[cole gnar]

Well enjoy your first paddle and be sure to get back to us and share some stoke!