2 Questions from a Newbie

[supyogi]

I have been SUPing for about 3 months now. Mostly in the Marina and open ocean. I haven't tried surfing but I plan on trying it this weekend. I have a Pau Hana Big EZ which is a very stable and fun board. I feel like I'd like another board to challenge myself and something that is a bit faster in flat water, but still performs well in open water and surf. I recently demo'd the Tomahawk Grant Washburn which I loved. But I've also been reading a lot about the Starboard Free Race although I haven't tried it yet. I would also like to enter some novice races eventually. I'm 5' 11' 147 lbs. I keep hearing that I will be adding boards to my "quiver" , but I only want to buy one more board for now.Any thoughts?

I am currently using a Werner Spanker paddle for my paddles on the weekend - about 6 miles
and I've noticed that my shoulder hurts afterward. My friends lent me his  much shorter Werner nitro mid paddle and the pain disappeared. Obviously I don't want any pain so I plan on buying a nitro. Is there a reason to hang onto the spanker or should I just trade it in? Is it possible it was cut too long?
Thanks!

[DavidJohn]

I would recommend trading your Spanker for a Nitro.. Small baldes are the way to go.. imo.

I only use a big blade like the Spanker size when I'm cruising along paddling slowly with friends.. but you can do that with a small blade also.

A board like the Starboard FreeRace would be great but at your weight you could go for something narrower (and faster) like the new Naish Catalina.

DJ

[H2Oman]

If you buy the Nitro be sure to keep your Spanker.  It's good to have a backup paddle for friends or if yours ever breaks, etc.  Finding the right paddle can be as challenging as finding the right board.

On that note, don't rush out and buy another board until you've had a chance to try a few.  You've only been at it for 3 months and the more you try the better you'll feel about your purchase.  If you are paddling at MDR/Mother's, try and hook up with us.  Lately we've had a growing group on Saturday or Sunday morning paddles.  It's a good op to try other boards and get feedback.

[supyogi]

Thanks so much DJ and H2o - I'll get my Nitro this weekend and try out a few more boards over the next month,before I buy my next one. I'll be at MDR/Mothers Sat and Sunday at 9
so I'll be on the lookout for you.
xoT