Countdown to BoP Registration Deadline

It's 10:40pm.  I have to say that today was a weird day.  The past couple of days here in San Diego have been sunny and blazing hot.  So of course, on the day I wanted... no needed to go out for a paddle it started to pour.  That's right.  It was raining AND included thunder and lightning.  What the heck?  I thought to myself, "Is this an omen?"  This morning I was leaning towards registering, now I was teetering again.

"I have until midnight to register so I have some time to think about it."

A couple of hours ago I was sitting in Hennessey's at Pacific Beach.  About half an hour rolls by, while I'm debating with a friend whether or not I should register for the race, when all of a sudden my friend tells me to look up.  And there it was..  the omen, clue, sign, whatever you want to call it, that told me to "just do it!"  The SUP board I signed at the Hennessey's Race hung above my head.  It was a reminder to me that however grueling the race was, it was an awesome experience and I had a great time.  Most importantly, it reminded me that I did it.  I completed the race.

So... after going around in circles,  I did what we all knew was going to be the end result... I registered!  (Yup, right before I logged on to post this.)  So next time I start debating about doing something and ask you and every Tom, Dick and Harry if I should do it... say "Just do it!!"  Of course, assuming that what I want to do is safe and won't harm me or anyone else :)

To Register? or Not to Register?... That is the Question.



Gerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle
October 2, 2010
Open Age Paddle Race 1:30pm
 

I have been browsing the Battle of the Paddle website for the past hour or so.  I keep trolling through the pictures and reading the articles, trying to find something that says it's okay for me to join in.  Why am I so hesitant about this race?  Well, last week's 3-mile race was grueling for me because I didn't get out in the water enough.  I haven't been in the water since... but I do have tomorrow and Friday.  This race is a 4-mile paddle obstacle through surf.  The cool part about it is that there is a surfboard division so my baby and I will fit right in.  Hmmm...  decisions, decisions.  Going for a 4-mile paddle.  I have until midnight tomorrow to register.  Check out tomorrow's post for my decision. 

Post-Race Thoughts

Here's my finishing medal to prove that I completed the Hennessey's Fun Race today.

What a day!  I definitely had the jitters coming into the race this morning and perhaps throughout the race as well.  I never really relaxed until it was over.  Probably due to my inexperience and definitely because of my lack of preparation.  I tried to convince myself that it's all about having fun... right?  I had to remind myself that a few times as racers started passing me up on the home stretch.  When I came up to the half-point buoy to round it, I just prayed that there were others behind me.  Thank God there was!  I was a little at ease.  At this point I already knew I wasn't one of the top contenders (well, I kinda knew that when I got on the beach).  So for now, it was just a matter of beating my best time.  On my previous blog I unveiled my play list to keep me on pace and hopefully finish by the last song.  When I rounded the buoy on Green Day and not Blink, I knew I was ahead of schedule.  I finished on Black Eye Peas, Bebot, meaning three songs early.  Although I did beat my best time, I wasn't very happy about my run because I knew that I could have been better prepared.  I was exhausted.  All-in-all, I've learned a ton from this first race and have taken some mental notes on what I need to do for a better outcome on my next race--  you bet there will be a next race!  The competition in all divisions were fierce!  I met a ton of cool people and got to watch some top competitors in action.

My plans until the next race:  More days paddling on longer runs; interval training with short rapid, quick paddling versus long endurance tempo paddling; try using a longer paddle with a smaller blade; get hooked up with a race board.

My Ipod Playlist for the Hennessey's Fun Paddle

Okay... the Hennessey's Race is in 2-days!  Yes, I'm nervous but I'm ready.  Most importantly, I think I've come up with a playlist that will get me through it.  Check it out:

1) Welome to Paradise, Green Day (One of my favorite groups-- will get me hyped up!)
2) Basketcase, Green Day
3) Anna Molly, Incubus
4) Back in my Life, DJ Ufornia (A good cardio workout song to keep my tempo up.)
5) Better Off Alone, DJ Ufornia
6) Blue, DJ Ufornia
7) Holiday, Green Day (Back to a favorite--BJ's voice just gets me going.)
8) What's My Age Again, Blink 182 (A question I ask myself-- prob at this moment as well.)
9) All the Small Things, Blink 182

I should be rounding the corner to head back at this point in the playlist.

10) Live Like We're Dying, Kris Allen (Song doesn't really go with the flow but I like it.)
11) Check It Out, Wil.I.Am (Getting into HipHop/R&B to keep me going like in a Nightclub!)
12) Disturbia, Rihanna
13) Brass Monkey, Beastie Boys (Old School but you can't help to go with the beat of this song.)
14) Tik Tok, Kesha
15) Bebot, Black Eye Peas (This one is for all the Filipinos!)
16) Pump It, Black Eye Peas
17) Don't Phunk With My Heart, Black Eye Peas
18) Beautiful, Akon (I'm hoping that I'll be on shore when this song is up.)


A good playlist takes some thought.  The beats need to be right, timing is important and the songs need to motivate you.  I have tested this playlist and it works for me.  I had to make a few adjustments but now it's where I need it to be.  Let's hope it's enough to keep me with the masses on Saturday!

Music to My Ears

I got tired of listening to myself panting and grunting for 3-miles so I went shopping for a waterproof audio device.  It wasn't as easy as I thought.  I went to Fry's first because they have everything in that enormous store.  Nope, they didn't have any waterproof mp3 or a waterproof case for my ipod.  I tried Best Buy.  Still no luck.  I wasn't willing to spend $120 for another ipod(a generation I didn't have and I have 4 ipods!) with the waterproof case.  Hmmm.. let's hit the sporting goods stores.  Just my luck!  This is what I found in Sports Authority:

This is a waterproof armband and case for almost any ipod or mp3.  It cost $69.99, plus tax.  Notice the pink headphones.  They aren't waterproof but I'm not planning on submersing myself in water as I'm paddling.  Even if I happen to fall into the water, I'm hoping I don't go head-under.  They are pretty cheap headphones anyway.  You can submerse the armband.  If you plan on swimming or surfing, you need to purchase waterproof headphones which will run you around $30.  All-in-all, I think I got an awesome deal.  

The best thing about this armband is that it's adjustable--- from scrawny arms like mine to big, muscular arms!  Typically armbands don't fit me but with this one I'm able to place it on snuggly and don't have to worry about it moving around.  Now I just need to find some music that will get me going for 3-miles!

Other Paddle Uses

As I prepare for the Hennessey Race, I have been paddling long distances and I'm finding that stretching before and especially after is necessary.  Proper stretching helps reduce soreness and injury.  At my age, my ligaments, tendons and muscles aren't as flexible as they used to be.  Here are some simple paddle stretches you can try:

Horizontal Side-to-Side Twist

Horizontal Side-to-Side Twist: make sure you twist slowly, stretching your obliques; If you have any tightness in one spot, you can hold your position in place for a few seconds to elongate and stretch that muscle.

Lateral Side-to-Side Twist

Lateral Side-to-Side Twist: Slowly drop one shoulder toward the ground, twisting slowly at the waist; Slowly switch to the other side; This should help stretch your latissimus dorsi.

Reach-and-Grab

Reach and Grab: Reach and grab your paddle as shown in the picture above.  If you're flexible like me, this doesn't provide much of a stretch but if you're not as flexible, it's a great stretch for your triceps.

I typically get tight muscles in my upper body so I do lots of upper body stretches.  I enjoy simple stretches, such as "reach for the sky" stretch, standing side bends and reach across the body stretches.  These you can do without the paddle.  If you get tight or sore leg muscles, don't neglect stretching your calves, quads and hamstrings.  

Remember, if you don't stretch you can cause soreness or it can lead to injuries that can take you out of the water for a while.  So take a few minutes to S-T-R-E-T-C-H.

Lonely Female in a Sea of Men

Okay, there is a ton of ways I can define this title but let's keep it in relation to SUP boarding.  I just referred back to my very first post dated August 1 when I experienced riding my first wave.  I still can recall the day as if it were yesterday.  I remember just trying to get out past the surf to experience my first paddle in the ocean.  That was a chore.  When I finally got out there, I paddled behind the line-up of surfers.  As I suspected, there weren't many female surfers.  As a matter of fact, I recall only seeing one other female out there aside from me. 

As females, we often try to keep our composure in front of our male counterparts.  We want to show them that we can keep our cool under any pressure.  And we especially want them to know that females can do anything a man can do!  (At least these are things that go through my mind.)  Of course, it helps to have the support of other females to motivate you to continue with these thoughts.  But when you're the lonely female in a sea of men, as I often find myself when I'm out SUP surfing, it takes more mental strength to motivate myself to continue on.  It can be intimidating being in the water with all men because no one wants to make a fool of herself, especially in front of men.  These are the times when emotions have to be set aside (and believe me boys, with females, emotions are involved with everything, even surfing) and just do it.  Ladies, we do have to give the men some credit as I've run into some very supportive and friendly male SUP surfers.  It does help when you have one or two of the guys rooting you on saying "paddle now" or "paddle fast".  After a while out in the water, I soon forget that I'm the only female.  We're out there for the same reason--  to catch a wave.

I've Joined the Pack

So, after watching the Chainsaw Massacre Paddle Races this weekend, I decided to join the pack.  I just finished registering for the Hennessey's International Paddle Races which is in a little less than two weeks.  From what I've heard, there are some major competitors that participate in the 6- and 9-mile paddle races.  I'll be paddling the 3-mile Fun Paddle.  I know that the "Fun Paddle" won't be just fun-and-games but involve some cruel competition.  I say cruel because I'm sure there will be individuals who aren't in it just for fun but to kick some butt and make novice paddlers, like myself, look useless.  I'm not gonna lie.  I'm a competitor.  Once the race starts, you better believe I'm going to push myself to the limit.  Hopefully I don't disappoint myself too much.  I just want to finish strong AND not last.

Chainsaw Massacre

Today I did a practice paddle of 4-miles.  It was grueling going upwind but I made it through.  My left arm feels like it's going to fall off and my right obliques are hating me.  For the race, I'll be using my "Baby", an 11' Takayama.  It's not a race board but she'll do for my first race.  I just want to make it to the finish line without passing out.  Plus, I'm looking forward to the pre- and post- events!

Top 5 Shopping List Items

These are useful items you don't consider buying as a new SUP surfer.  They are cheap and well worth the investment so go shopping!

1)  12" square of remnant carpet

Don't you hate it when you undress out of your wetsuit in the parking lot the dirt gets all over your wetsuit and your feet that you just washed off?  The carpet is handy in keeping your wetsuit and feet somewhat free of debris.  Plus, it's more comfortable to stand on and change, especially if you have extra-sensitive feel like me.

2)  A single shoelace

The first time I went out on my own, I didn't know where to put my key.  I actually hid it in a bush because I couldn't risk getting it wet.  My key has the automatic lock/unlock device right on it.  So now I carry my valet key.  I use the shoelace to tie it around my neck (loosely of course) and tucked into the wetsuit.  Some wetsuits actually have a cool little pocket specifically made for a key.

 
3)  Electrical tape

Typically new SUPers hit the rails of their board often, causing nicks and dings.  This is a cheap tool to use to cover the edge of your paddle as you are learning.  It won't totally protect from all nicks and dings but can help alleviate some of the minor damages.  Also, it comes in a variety of cool colors.


4)  1 gallon tupperware

I used to wrap my wetsuit in a towel and throw them in the trunk.  Many times, the towel doesn't keep other items in the trunk from getting wet too.  I used a cardboard box for a while because it just happened to be in the back of my car.  Eventually that fell apart.  I grabbed a 1 gallon tupperware and placed it in my trunk.  It helps keep my trunk dry and less sandy.


5)  Neoprene cement

It sucks when you get a puncture or tear in your wetsuit.  I have a small hole (less than a diameter of a pencil).  The neoprene cement should be placed on the outside of the wetsuit by squeezing the wetsuit material together and cementing on top.  If the hole is too large to do this, you should take your wetsuit to a repair shop.  The neoprene cement will keep the hole from getting larger.  Make sure you check the hole every now and then to make sure it's not enlarging.

Coronado Chainsaw Massacre

Today I got to watch my first competitive SUP race, the Coronado Chainsaw Massacre.  It's a 6.5 miles race that starts at the Coronado Beach to the buoy off of Point Loma and back.  There were prone paddlers and SUPers.  There were only a handful of females in the pack.  As I sat back waiting for the race to start, I imagined myself being out there with the bunch.  I'm a competitor and was definitely itching to be a part of it.

It's almost 11am (late start).  Here the competitors are heading out to finally line-up.

Here's the image that I saw when I thought to myself, "I should be out there!"

Don't get me wrong.  I'm not trying to say that being in a competitive race is easy by any means.  But I'm always in for a challenge.  Hmmm...  the Hennessey's International is coming up in a couple of weeks.  Maybe?

When you're out there in the moment pushing yourself to your highest potential
you ask yourself, "Why am I doing this?" and then you cross the finish line...  that's why!

The best part of any race is watching the competitors complete it.  Imagine their fatigue after paddling 6-something miles, but they seem to get that extra boost of adrenaline as they gain sight of the finish line.   The looks on their faces say it all -- SUCCESS!

Places to Paddle in SD

Nobody can deny that San Diego is a beautiful city.  There is so much to see and do.  SD is especially known for its beautiful beach towns and SUP boarders have a variety of places to choose from, whether its cruising the bay or shredding some waves.

If you're a local, you may recognize the following spots.  These are some of my favorite places.  See if you can guess where I'm at:

Picture #1: These high rises remind me of the ones in Honolulu.

Picture #2: Recognize this view?  There is an awesome beach to paddle right below.

Picture #3: This beach takes a little longer to get to from where I live in South San Diego
but it's well worth the drive.

Picture #4: This is my go-to place when I just want to get a in a quick cruise for the day.

Picture #5: After paddling this beach, you can head up the hill for a nice hike or leisurely walk.

Picture #6: Where it all started... where I caught my first wave that reeled me
into the sport of SUP surfing.

Check out future posts to find out where these places are.  I'll actually be at picture #1 tomorrow morning watching the Chainsaw Massacre Paddle Races.  I hope to see you there!

SUP Surfing for Dummies

This guy did not do his homework. Unless you want to be the next top-rated YouTube blooper, study the following:

Knowledge of the ocean and its movements
Be familiar with the different conditions that affect the ocean, such as tide, current and wind flow.

Etiquette for being a well-mannered surfer
Know the rules of the road, in this case, ocean.
#1) The surfer who is nearest the peak has the right of way.  Never drop-in on someone's wave.
#2) Never paddle straight through a line-up, especially is you are a new SUPer.  Also, when you are paddling out, do not paddle in front of someone who is riding a wave.
#3) Always try to maintain contact and control of your board.  As a beginner, this may be tough but throwing your board and having it accidentally hit someone can cause some major damage.
#4) Don't snake someone by paddling in front of them to get in better position of a wave.  Patiently wait for your turn.
#5) Don't be a wave hog.  It can be easier to catch waves as a SUP surfer than a shortboarder so be nice and take turns.
#6) Don't litter.  Help keep our beaches clean and pick up your trash or even some that may not been yours.
#7) As a beginner or even a veteran, you can accidentally drop in or mess up someone's wave.  We're not perfect.  Just be quick to apologize.

For more info, check out www.surfinghandbook.com

6 Basic Tips on Shopping for a Wetsuit

Tip #1: Do your research before you head out to the stores.  Having an idea about what you want (style, weight, color) will definitely save you a lot of time and effort.  Google local surf shops to get an idea on what may be available there.  Make a list of which stores you would like to visit.  Hopefully you find a shop that has a variety of wetsuits in your size.  Otherwise, don't be disappointed to have to jump from one store to another.  I visited 3 before I found what I wanted.

Tip #2:  Don't just give yourself one-day to find the wetsuit.  (Although it's great if you happen to find that ultimate wetsuit during your first visit but don't count on it.)  Be patient.  The investment in a good wetsuit will be worth it.

Tip #3:  Wear a bikini/ bathing suit/ trunks under your clothes when you finally head out to try on wetsuits.  I wore the bathing suit that I planned on wearing under the wetsuit.  Also, it helps not to worry about being discreet.  I was at a surf shop that had small fitting rooms with swinging doors.  I didn't care if anyone could see me because I had my swimsuit on.  I understand that some of you may decide to go commando under your wetsuit.  Please don't do this when your out shopping for one.  That's just disgusting.

Tip #4:  Try on different brands.  The sizes differ.  Dependent on the brand, I fitted in sizes 6 through 10.  I wear a size 5 in women's clothing but my O'Neill wetsuit is a size 10.

Women- I know it's psychologically pleasing to fit into a smaller size, but you really want a wetsuit that fits well and comfortably.  Don't worry about the number on the tag.  Besides, no one can see it when you have it on! (This advice goes for any type of clothing.)

Tip #5:  Ask a salesperson to help you.  Most of the people who work in a surf shop are probably surfers themselves and can give you some good advice.  Make sure you ask questions.


Tip #6:  If you want to save a little bit of cash and you're not in a rush, you can try to find a deal online.  You can do this after you have gone through the tips above and know exactly what you want (brand, style and size).  There are many online stores that give better deals than the shops but the downfall is having to wait for delivery.  I'd way out my savings after cost, tax and shipping and see if it's worth the wait.

Happy hunting!

Finding the Right Wetsuit

I love shopping.  What girl doesn't?  But shopping for wetsuits was more like a chore than recreation. It's hard work trying on one wetsuit after another, especially when it's a hot day so they stick to your sweaty skin which make them tough to put on.  I was excited to start searching for a wetsuit.  It was like shopping for that special dress that you were going to wear to a school dance.  It had to be perfect.

First of all, the choices can be overwhelming.  You need to figure out what style wetsuit you want to invest in---  a spring-suit, which hits thigh-length or a full-suit, which is a full-legged suit.  And there's a new butt-hugging short-shorts by Roxy that I'm sure a man must have designed (definitely not for comfort).

The arm-length can vary from sleeveless to short-sleeve to long-sleeve.  Then, as if this isn't enough to think about, you need to consider the weight of the suit.  This will determine the thickness of the wetsuit (measured in mm), so you need to find one appropriate for the climate of the waters you'll be entering.

After trying-on what seemed like a million wetsuits, I found my perfect match... an O'Neill long-sleeved epic 3:2 full-suit.  A wetsuit should fit like a glove.  I chose the O'Neill because it was easy to put on and it fit well.  I went with the style because I get cold easily and the water here in San Diego is definitely not warm enough for me to go for a spring-suit.  Plus, I wasn't interested in getting the arm-band and thigh-band suntan that a spring-suit will provide.  I'll have to metion that this suit is too warm for me to wear when I'm out on the ocean just paddling if the sun is out but I was on a budget and had to weigh out my priorities.  At some point, I'll invest in a spring-suit or jacket for that.

The 3:2 means that the suit is thicker in the core areas for warmth (3mm) and lighter in the places I need for movement (2mm).  This also helps with getting the suit on more easily.  I tried an all 3mm full-suit and was sweating like a dog when I finally took it off.  My wetsuit is seamless, which helps from getting your skin chaffed or rubbed.

Lastly, aside from feeling good in your wetsuit, you want to look good too.  I didn't find a ton of variety in color but I went with the classic black.  It's slimming and you can never go wrong with this basic color.  If you're looking to be a bit more trendy, I found that Roxy had more options but their wetsuits seemed to run small and tight.  If you're a petite woman/ girl, these may be the fit for you.  Maroon seemed to be another common color from Quicksilver.  If you can't find what you're looking for and you don't mind paying the price, you can always go custom.  Aaaah... that will be the day...

Check out tomorrow's blog on Tips on Shopping for a Wetsuit

Should I Go Naked?

I'm sure with just this title my hits will go through the roof.  And yes, I am genuinely asking if I should go naked or not.  Okay boys, I can already here the "yes"es before I even explain.

Here's my dilemma: Should I go naked under my wetsuit or not?  Does it make a difference?  In comfort?  In performance?

The first time I wore my wetsuit I wore my two-piece string bikini underneath.  The issue is that the strings were rubbing me all the wrong way under the suit and was definitely uncomfortable.  I own a good amount of swimsuits but all of them have strings and/or ties except for my only one-piece nike swimmers high-performance suit.  This was okay for the first couple of times but now I'm noticing that the straps are rubbing my skin raw.  It could be because the suit is so worn that it's now a little loose.  Before I go shopping for a new $80 swimsuit, I wanted to get some opinions.

Now I've spoken to a few of the surfer guys and they undeniable prefer going commando.  Not to say I don't value your opinion men, but are there any experienced females out there that can give me some insight?  I look forward to reading the comments from both males and females regarding this dilemma.  Help me figure this out before this super-long weekend daily surf sessions!