OMG

Apologies for header title...but what a week to look forward to.
I was literally just checking the forecast, after a bumpy session today, which has left me still turbo charged. I managed to sneak out for a second time on a lovely Homeblown Retro twin fin. Sadly due to the onshore wind, faces were a bit blown out and crumbly, but the residual swell was great. Whilst the wave rides were short the take-off felt so steep, and I was literally buzzing. Each time I came back in for a breather, I couldn't help but paddle out again for more punishment. The 6'3 in question turned out to be shaped by the infamous Tris from St. Agnes complete with Banksy sprays. I am sure they must be some sort of tribute to the artist and not an original, but it did make me think perhaps this really was too much of a bargain.

Anyway please note the weeks forecast below, which ironically is when I am due to pick up my longboard !

Advanced Forecast Options
Wave Swell Period Wind Temp

Mon 13/07 4 ft 4.5ft 8secs 15mph 19c
Tue 14/07 4 ft 7.5ft 11secs 16mph 17c
Wed 15/07 4 ft 8.5ft 9secs 17mph 17c
Thu 16/07 2 ft 3.5ft 8secs 7mph 20c
Fri 17/07 2 ft 2.5ft 11secs 18mph 15c

Gettin' some

I am not really a fan of boats with engines, the smell of petrol on water makes me feel sick, and the people who drive them, seem to have little regard for other water users. However whether you approve or disapprove of these guys, jumping the swell, they looked to be having so much fun. They finally went in, after landing the boat tail first on the engine.

An old friend

Caught up with an old friend who came to stay.
No wind, no waves, and little else to do than go for some big walks.
Laura left us to our own devices and I slipped out of Dad role if only for a few hours.
Despite his slight build, he is a one man eating machine, and his temper; the stuff of legends - hope to see you again when its windy.

Great new blog.

Trolling the net, I stumbled across a great little site called God Save the Wind.
I am not quite sure how this guy manages to be so current, but it seems to span the whole windsurf industry, I have even seen some 2010 stuff.

In the meantime, for those of you who don't windsurf or can't be bothered to check it out, I have copied this youtube segment, to demonstrate that windsurf is still evolving at a phenomenal rate. Most people don't get to see this at their local spot, which is why i find it all the more inspiring.

Many thanks to God save the wind for your great site, I feel totally charged to go out and rip. Vive la planche a voile !

Still blowin'

The Westerly is still here, and it's been another great day of sailing, although I did manage to stop and get some shots. The picture above is Andrew demoing the RRD Freestyle wave 100, and he seemed to be enjoying himself. It amazes me, that a modern 2009 sail a full meter less than some of the older kit, was actually the fastest on the water.

The Westerly

Good things always seem to happen when the westerly blows, or perhaps it just feels like that after a really good windsurf. The wind cranked from the west today and the seas churned up some heavy duty swell. I think waves were approaching mast high once you got out back.
So after a couple hours chasing around in the raging seas, I finally returned to the job at hand; house hunting (again). Dragging my feet, as I am quite settled in our little place, Laura had other plans.
By the time we reached the house, I was still in a state of endorphin rush, and not quite with the program. So it was a real surprise to discover not only views but access to a perfect break at the bottom of the garden !



Unfortunately this creates a whole new set of issues, but most importantly is how can we possibly afford it ! I haven't figured this one yet, needless to say if we did actually play the lottery, this place would be sold.

New board

I popped in to see Mike at Atlantic and he declared that my 9'2 was in full swing.
So managed to get a few photos before the graphics go on.
Hopefully ready by the end of next week,I literally can't wait.
Will of course post up some shots when it is complete.

Instincts

It's my own fault for ignoring my instincts, but after five weeks of no wind, its starting to hurt.
With a sunny day contrary to the BBC forecast, the South Westerly breeze also seemed to be increasing. Normally, I make up my own mind whether its a sailable day, but when there has been a wind drought, the margin for error increases dramatically. Hence, with a heightened sense of wind-lust, I misinterpretted the general-public observation of 'oh its windy', and 'no its really windy' as being reliable.

Against my better judgement, I dropped everything to go for a windsurf. But, deep down I knew it was going to be iffy, and purposefully texted no-one. Nothing worse than rallying the troops and getting caught out; kind of leaves you in the hotseat.

Ignoring all the signs that suggested it was merely a gentle breeze, I did the walk of shame. As I climbed the pebble ridge, my heart sank as I realised it wasn't going to happen. I think this is when Laura snapped me at my moment of realisation.

Old things worth sharing.

Dusting off the backup drive this morning, I sifted through some old photos and found these. Thought I might post up these shots from Tarifa (Andalucia), and share with you the wonder of looking from one continent to another. Guess around about this time I was listening to Sufjan Stevens, which miraculously played on iTunes as I sorted through. The genius of iTunes Genius !

Feeling better.

Blue skies, clean surf, and no wetsuit required.
Feeling 150% better today, particulary after I hit the water.
Enough said.

The Day after.

Today has not been a great day.

Following a late night session, and forgetting that I can't actually drink, I have been wrestling with a monumental hang over. In fact, I couldn't actually drive myself home from South Devon, and even managed to upset my family in the process. Of course I didn't actually say anything offensive, but as I pebble dashed the front of my sisters lawn, and had a further 'mishap' at my parents., it's clear Whisky is not my drink. So why, oh why did I seem to forget this as the devil liquid flowed, and the afore mentioned friend (of previous post) lead the charge. But when the good times are rolling, I literally get wrapped up in the whole spirit (excuse pun) of the moment. You would hope that at some point, as a responsible father I would have 'grown up' but no. The fault seems to be more ingrained in my makeup, and I think I will be taking at least a few weeks away from alcohol.

So in one final attempt to clear my head before bed time, and take my gaze away from staring at my feet/toilet pan, I strolled to the beach. Although small, a sweet little ripple was lighting up the horizon, and hopefully, just hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.

Alby Falzon

As a dear friend prepares to return to the Grizzly bears of Alaska, and risk his life for the sake of film; I can't help but admire the lengths film makers go for their work. However, in the case of surf film legend Alby Falzon, it is more his sacrifice of perfection so that others may enjoy.

Things to do when its flat.

Top of my list, has been hassling master craftsmen and shaper - Mike Peet from Atlantic surfboards. I commissioned a retro styled 9'2 and can't wait to see how it will turn out and surf. In the meantime, I have been totally inspired from looking at Morning of the Earth surfboards and wondering if my baby will be even close to these works of art. Mike has a long history of shaping boards locally in North Devon, and it just felt right buying so close to where it will be ridden. In the meantime, its time to get some miles on the road bike, in preparation for the Tour de France. I never enjoy watching it as much, unless I know I have been in the saddle for a few miles of my own. Can Lance really do it again, I don't think the French media will cope ?

The Come Down.

With no real swell on the forescast, I am begining to wonder why i didn't surf even more last week. Of course this addiction overlooks the fact, that after three sessions a day, for 5 days on the trot, it took me the week to recover. Enjoy the photo, I can't stop thinking about the next swell, whatever the size.

The Kitesurf question ?

I've just got off the water as the sun set, and was literally blown away by one person's ability to give. Hence, as we derigged in the failing light, I had to race back to share what I'd experienced.

Today was great as it was totally focused on the family, without even a hint of windsurfing/surfing. However, by 7pm the little folk were fast asleep and Laura needed the house free. With nowhere to go, a light westerly breeze led me to the beach. I thought I would give kiting one final shot, as it's sat in the garage gathering dust for so long now. Its even officially made my hit list for extraneous toys.
As a windsurfer, I always seem to shy away from kiting, and this reluctance to accept change is not a great asset. I am not proud of this, but I hope that by admitting it I can somehow atone for my sins.
So, I am really pleased to be able to write that from tonight, kitesurfing and I may have a future. Of course, this isn't just about flying kites, it is also about total strangers who have kite knowledge and then proceed not only to help you, but almost provide expert tuition. Its such a refreshing change from other sports, that someone can not only take the time to be friendly but be purely altrusitic and share the teachings and time with you. Thanks South African Gary (and Bev) for all your help tonight, it was really appreciated. See you on the water.

Warm Welcombe

Ventured west today to find the Old Smithy pub, and what a great place to visit. Nestled in the peaceful north devon village of Welcombe, we were treated to some truly inspiring food and beautiful surroundings. Felt like a great little community and was amazed to see what the locals get upto when they aren't surfing (see below).

Thank you Richard http://shoot-the-moonshine.blogspot.com for the youtube inspiration.

Wind blew up but just not quite enough to get out for a windsurf, or at least that was my opinion. Andrew managed to sneak out on his 6 metre sail, and as a result couldn't quite get going. but I was a little envious he managed to get out. Instead I'm still sat looking out the window and enjoying seeing the wind in the trees, looks like tomorrow could be the day. See you at the beach.

Swell and wind still seem to be deciding how the week will play out. Although can't pretend I am in any hurry to jump in the ocean, my arms and shoulders are in a world of pain, not to mention the sleep deprivation. Just feeling so tired from literally not getting out of the water, and Hector and Rosa opting for unusually light sleep patterns. Hoping for some wind tomorrow though - will keep posted.

Swell looks set to continue and can't wait to get out on the new board. Caught this guy in the shorebreak getting some great airs.

The Point

With just two people out at sunrise, the point was working with somewhere between a 2-4ft swell. However there was still quite a wait between the sets but it was great just to get going on the bigger waves, and bask in the morning sun.

Saturday morning

Laura heads to the carboot sales, and Rosco and me hit the beach ! Caught a great little 2-3 ft wave and super clean.

House purchase !

Got up very early to surf an unusually clean wave of just 1-2 ft. Not a soul in the water, but by 10am you could really tell we haven't had any swell for 2 weeks; everyone was heading out. Within 5 short days, we have completed on our house sale and have now become a permanent fixture in North Devon - really great news.

Guincho

Waves are back on tomorrow, and am hopeful of a solid 3ft with offshores (pictures to follow). In the meantime, just stumbled on this old shot from Guincho. Times were a little different then; sleeping rough out the back of my Land Rover with the intention of touring from Morocco to Galicia. We never actually made it to Morocco, but Tarifa and Guincho certainly delivered the wind.

Chinook update

Many thanks to Dan at Chinook , who kindly offered to warranty my carbon mast extension today. The fracture it suffered seems to be more freak accident than any actual defect, and they have confirmed that their products (like the company) really don't let you down. Thanks again - you guys rock !

One man and his bike called 'Charles'

Whilst I am sat waiting for wind and waves to materialise Jon (an old friend) has embarked on the journey of a lifetime. His trek takes him across Alaska; cycling solo. For further info check out his blog site - the trip is truly inspirational.
http://www.sladeride.com/

Teignmouth Rescue

Went down to see the old timers on the South coast, and with just the smallest of swell, the villagers looked on in awe. As we pulled up to my parents front door, three local fisherman were being rescued. Cold and huddled in the back of the ambulance, they had capsized their fishing boat moments before. For such a peaceful stretch of water, the ability for things to go wrong, can happen happen very quickly here. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/7524336.stm

Flippers & Snorkel

Blue skies all day long and barely a ripple. Headed out for a snorkel with just shorts and rash vest, and chased the minnows. Tonights photo courtesy of the eyeball webcam.

Windsurf magazine article.

Following the June update in Windsurf mag, I mention that the RRD Twin Fin was 'equally at home here'. However, since publication the nice folks at Seasprite have let me switch to the RRD Wave Cult 80 ltr. Hence during the month of May, I can honestly say that the Wave Cult is my board of choice here. Wind is pretty consistent, but on bigger days, it keeps you going through lulls or large drops between set waves. Its hull shape is a bit looser than the 2008 model, and it stills seems like an incredibly versatile board. I totally love this board right now, and am just a bit miffed that June looks set to be fine weather.

Dreaming of Daymer

The boiler is on at the moment (felt like 30+ yesterday), with no iminent signs of swell or wind. However when I found this photo from last year at Daymer, I am hopeful for the return of the thermals. Many thanks Nick - courtesy of 360 Photography.

Last of the swell.

Swell is backing off for a few days, and would be nice to see some wind again. Certainly not expected though, but what a month May was !