Battle of the Paddle

[PonoBill]

So who is going? I've signed up for both the age group race and the distance paddle. Looks like the distance run is about 9.5 miles--from Dana point to the san clemente pier and back. A nice cruise if there isn't any wind--a grim upwinder on the return leg if there is.

Should be a great event in this second year. I hope to see many of you zoners there.

http://www.rainbowsandals.com/battleofthepaddle/

[longboarder1973]

Great event last year...looks even better this year!
I am doing the age group and distance race also.  I am going to slog it out on a 12/6.  I am sure most will be on longer boards for the distance race.  I have been doing trial runs the last few weeks since i live in the area.  Bill is correct...will be a great run if there isnt wind, but if there is...wow, coming back is brutal!
Just a few weeks away...see everyone there!

Rick

[Tom]

So Bill, what size board are you using for the age group? I've been laid up and out of the water for a month & a half with a tendinitises issue, so no training for me. I should be back in the water soon, though.

[PonoBill]

I'm going to use my F18 in the unlimited class. It's not significantly faster than my 12'2" since it's a Maliko shape--made for planing-but it's very stable. I fell numerous times last year.

[longboarder1973]

Just a side note for all participants...after a few changes in the course design to appease the "powers that be", looks like we will be having a beach START and FINISH(depending on race day conditions).  Last year there was well over 200 people in the open race.  THis year, there could be fewer due to a slightly higher race fee and the economy, but I doubt it!  If they get as many as last year or even a few more, should be a rather interesting start with 250-300 people all lined up on the shore and then sliding into the water on the way to the first mark.
I am kinda chuckling and scratching my head wondering how that is going to go, but I am sure it will be exciting....thoughts?

[stoneaxe]

Can't wait to see the video of that beach start....

[PonoBill]

Some of the races on Maui start with a beach start. It's a great opportunity to crash into a bunch of people. I ran right over someone's board at the Kehei pier to Makenna race. I think it might have been Tracy "noworries" Dudley, but my memory sucks.

With 200 people it should be absolute bedlam. I will plan on cheating.

[Dasurfclub]

I'm going to do the Age Group race also. I'm having a new 14' Infinity shaped for me, which I'm really excited about.

I agree that the start will be absolute craziness...

See everyone there.

[Strand Leper]

I have never raced before and don't have a clue... but I will probably come down for the ALHOA after the morning surf, check things out and meet some zoners ... Maybe if I ask Jim Terrell really nicely, he will let me borrow a board.

Tim

[venice mace]

did the open last year.  doing the elite this year.  someone has to come in last 

[PonoBill]

good on ya. I'm bringing along the 12'2" starboard in case any zoners need a sled.

[Strand Leper]

Okay Pono...

I am on it... age group and distance... total rookie newbie clueless fool... but what the heck.  If I can't wrangle a distance board, I will be going full tilt on a one million pound fibergalss eleven foot longboard... Going to luau with super hot wife and son...

I think zoners should wear an article of clothing for easy identification... like a feather boa or something...

SL

[Easy Rider]

Really wish I could go - - but Snowboard season is starting - and I was just in San Diego at ASR - then Oahu at the Volcom Pipe house . . . so my "off days" are used up till January.

Have fun everyone - say hi to my brother Scott at the Starboard tent.

[PonoBill]

I'm easy to spot without a boa--big fat geezer.

[Matt]

Anyone know of the closest hotels to the race start area?