2016 Pacific Paddle Games - Anyone going?

[Remickulous]

This event is going to take place in Dana Point, CA from 9/30 to 10/2 2016. I would post a link, but I'm afraid that might be breaking a rule or something on this forum. 

I've never gone to a SUP event, so I'll be there spectating this year in preparation for entering next year. If anyone is going & wants to meet up, I'd love to meet with y'all. I'll be in Oceanside from 9/29 through 10/3 and practicing my "skills" **cough** down there most of the time on a rental board. Maybe there will be demos at the race, hmmm...

[TallDude]

Yes. There will be a number of us Zoners there for sure. Participating? I haven't decided yet. It's a 10 minute walk from my front door to the race. It's pretty pricey as far as races go. $135. to do a 6 mile ocean race where I already paddle a few times a week for free. Hard to justify. Spectating and demo'g some boards for free sounds better to me. 

http://ppg.supthemag.com/   

[PonoBill]

I'm going, and I finally signed up to race. I've got a new Infinity Blackfish that I like, so I'm racing 14'. I'll be staying down near del Mar and probably surfing at Dogpatch or wherever about every day up to the race.

[Bulky]

It's a great event and I highly recommend it even though I need to pass this year.  It is pricey, but since events in my area are few and usually involve about 2 or 3 dozen paddlers, it's a trip to be out there with a couple hundred.  Plus, got an awesome pair of sandals (probably $60 right there).

My one recommendation would be for some local Zoner to call a meet-up spot for dinner.  I thought it'd be really easy for us to find each other but that's not the case.  It was only after the event when people started posting pictures that I realized that I sat or raced near a number of Zoners and didn't even know it.

[Remickulous]

I know this is the interweb, and stranger danger is a real concern for all of us, but I'd sure be interested in meeting some of our fellow zoners if they are there.

I'm holding a beach BBQ get-together in Oceanside Saturday night for my fellow West coast nicotine quitters (www.killthecan.org), and anyone here is invited to that also.

If anyone want's to meet up, feel free to PM me.

[PonoBill]

In years past I did a Zoner barbeque at the condo I rented from Capobeachboy, but this year Diane and I are staying with a friend in Fairbanks Ranch. I'll be around for the week before, surfing mostly at Dogpatch I expect, though I might bust out to some other spots given my location.

[digger71]

this year Diane and I are staying with a friend in Fairbanks Ranch. I'll be around for the week before, surfing mostly at Dogpatch I expect, though I might bust out to some other spots given my location.

You are staying just around the corner from me.  Plenty of spots to check out between here and Dogpatch.  Cardiff Reef (Cardiff State Beach) is the go to for all things paddling in North County.  Lots of stand up surfers and a strong group of distance paddlers - sup and prone.  Next lot south (South Cardiff/Seaside Reef) is more shortboarders but Tabletops is a fun reef just south of the lot that works great on a higher tide.  For a nice break from the crowds paddle out at Torrey Pines State Beach and head south.  It's a mile of beach break with nobody out and then you get to Flat Rock where there is some structure.  Cool setting and can be a fun wave.

Not sure that I am here that week but will let you know if I'm around.  I've borrowed a paddle and talked story with you in Hood River and paddled Maliko with you a couple times - would be good to get a surf in with you in my hood   Let me know if you need anything when you are down here.

Doug

[PonoBill]

Cool, I'll get in touch when we arrive. Should be about Sept 29th.

[Newbomb]

Been a while since I've been in the Zone but coming in with a few racers from Cleveland...yup. 1 includes an adaptive paddler so we're excited to get him and Anthony Vela together. Might have a rental in Capistrano. Will keep an eye out for a happening. Doing the Tech and the 6 on a 14'.

[eDUBz]

Ill be there sporting an RFboardworks Tee and long hair  if you see me say hi

[surfcowboy]

I'm trying to break loose for the weekend but worst case I'll be there Saturday I'm sure.

[kayadogg]

Me and the wife are flying out the Friday before. Doing the open technical and distance. Then going to Maui for a week 

[capobeachboy]

If anyone is still looking for accommodation the place Pono referenced has availability beginning Sat Saturday 10/1 for a minimum 3 night stay. Go direct to my listing:

https://www.seabreezevacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/dp-375-view-above-retreat

I had to outsource the bookings due to the Homeaway/VRBO debacle following the Expedia acquisition. It's still listed on those sites but if you go direct to my booking company there's no added fees. Now the city is cracking down on short term rentals following similar actions in San Clemente and Laguna Beach.  All cause of a few bad apples (not Pono or any Zoners - we always invite the neighbors!).

Anyway I'm not sure if I'm racing, doing ULI demos, or spectating but I better make up my mind soon.

[digger71]

If you are going to race the Open Technical you had better practice turning left
http://www.enthusiastnetwork.com/new-improved-courses-announced-2016-pacific-paddle-games-presented-salt-life/

[SlatchJim]

Mrs. Slatch and I are playing hookie and headed to San O Friday (with the dog)  Anyone else tuning up there, or just catching a few?