All Articles | Aloha Surf Guide | The Official Surf Guide of Hawaii The Official Surf Guide of Hawaii Menu Leave a reply (PAPEETE, Tahiti) — Tahiti is a surfer’s paradise. Now, it’s paradise for stunt rider Robbie Maddison. Maddison, who partnered with DC Shoes, was able to fulfill a three-year dream and ride a modified-motorcycle across the waves on Tahiti’s shore. The dramatic video below shows Maddison zooming through a rainforest before trading solid ground for water. He enters the water at full speed and manages to zoom across the surface with water spraying up from behind the bike. Maddison, an X Games medalist and world-record holding athlete, speeds past surfers into an oncoming wave. It looks like he had barely enough speed to outrun the wave, but he makes it out, with his dirt bike aiming straight for shore. Maddison worked with DC to modify his dirt bike and add skis to the front and back wheels. The bike also has airbags, activated if Maddison pulls the lever, to keep the bike from sinking to the bottom of the ocean if he crashed.

In the video below, you’ll see a madman take off on a sizeable wave in Tahiti on a highly-modified motorcycle. His name is Robbie Maddison, and he’s a surfer-slash-stunt-rider from Australia. “Maddo” seems to know no fear, as he’s backflipped the Tower Bridge in London, jumped the Corinth Canal in Greece, and acted as the stunt-double for Daniel Craig in James Bond films. But looking over the ledge in Tahiti, while holding onto two handlebars, is another level of madness. We caught up with Maddo to ask him, well, why? Well, let’s take it from the top. Where the hell did this idea come from? Well, I grew up surfing, and my wife is a big-time wakeboard champion, so every time we’re home in Australia we’re in boats, on the water, etc. I guess the idea originally came from—well I mean I’m obviously a motorcycle guy—but I was on the back of a boat and we were cruising along the river and I’m looking at the wake coming up the back, watching her wakeboard, and something clicked in my head.

I fantasized putting skis on a bike and riding on water. It was a stupid vision at the time, but I kept toying with it, playing with designs and concepts, and eventually it became a reality. Like most people who surf in Tahiti, you don’t have a good trip unless you meet up with Raimana. We heard he was pretty crucial to pulling this off. Yeah, I’d never met him before, but he’s a nice guy, very hospitable and a great surfer. Before the stunt, the day before I got the big wave on my bike, a big swell came and Raimana towed me into the sickest waves I’ve ever experienced. I caught some wearing my full gear to get used to wearing it in the water, and he towed me into ‘em. Then right after, he towed into a couple waves and I watched him get some of the sickest barrels I’ve ever seen first-hand. I was up on the Jet Ski right in front of where the lip was hitting the water, parallel to the reef—it was just so epic. That scene will live with me forever.

Having grown up in Australia on the beaches just south of Sydney, did understanding the physics of a wave and ocean dynamics help you at all? Did your past as a surfer influence how you were able to ride that bike in the surf? Yeah, 100 percent. I’ve surfed since I was 8 years old. I’ve been a surfer for like 26 years. If I wasn’t a surfer growing up there’s no way I would have ever even imagined this, not to mention have had the knowledge of how to read the wave. I was only comfortable in this scenario because I’ve spent the majority of my life dropping in on waves. Honestly, the whole way I imagined I needed to ride the wave on my bike was wrong, but after watching some footage, with my knowledge of surfing I realized I had to adjust to be up on the face of the wave—and I’m comfortable being there because I spent the majority of my life dropping in on the face of waves. If I hadn’t been a surfer at heart, I couldn’t have pulled it off. How does the perspective that we see in the photos and the video relate to what your perspective was of riding those waves in full gear on your bike?

The thing that sticks with me the most after that whole experience was how physically demanding it was. Honestly, I really thought that getting the right wave would have been easier [Laughs]. I don’t think the photos or video show how physical it was. You can’t see that when the wave broke right behind me, I honestly thought that might be the end of my life. I’ve never felt like I was in the wrong place at the wrong time more than I did right there. It was a near-death experience. At the end of the day, the images and footage say something pretty awesome, but the ferocity and how gnarly that thing was can’t really be put into words Read more at #Blw2JuuiuWQqe2bZ.99 Copyright © 2015, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Leave a reply On the first of July 2015, Hawaii became the first state in the U.S. to put a plastic bag ban into effect. California also voted a ban into law last year, but that measure is suspended for now due to heavy lobbying from pro-plastics groups to get a public referendum.

It will be put to a state-wide vote on in November of 2016. Hawaii’s ban was voted on back in 2012 , and starting this month prohibits grocery stores from handing out certain types of plastic bags. However, the new law allows stores to provide reusable biodegradable plastic bags to customers. Plastic bag bans have been used by cities and local governments to reduce solid waste. Hawaii’s law also aims to curb marine litter. But as written, the exemptions in Hawaii’s rules constitute a significant loophole. The law defines plastic bags that are 0.0025 inches and has handles as reusable. “That’s more plastic that they have to use to make the bag which is more of a finite resource,” Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii’s executive director Kahi Pacarro told Hawaii News Now . “They also pose just as much of a risk to our marine creatures.” The ban includes all plastic checkout bags, defined as a carryout bag provided by a business to transport groceries or other retail goods made from non-compostable plastic and not designed for multiple reuse.

However, retailers can provide recyclable paper bags, compostable plastic bags and reusable bags, which include ones made out of plastic at least 2.25 mils thick. The City and County of Honolulu passed the restriction three years ago to help prevent plastic from ending up in the ocean, but it is the last county in the state to make the transition. A similar ban for the Big Island began in 2013, while Kauai and Maui County made the switch four years ago. On Oahu, violators can be fined starting at $100 per day up to $1,000 per day for repeat offenders. Federal entities, like the Defense Commissary Agency, are not required to follow the ban. The Navy Exchange is voluntarily complying, but the commissary at Pearl Harbor and others will not be in compliance, according to a DCA official. They do offer recyclable paper bags and reusable bags, but the plastic is not compostable or biodegradable. Stores will continue to promote recycling plastic bags at bins nearby, the DCA said. Affected businesses are trying to ease the transition for customers, offering various incentives.

For example, Foodland is rewarding customers with a 5-cent bag credit or three HawaiianMiles for every reusable bag used during checkout. They’ll also be entered to win weekly prizes and a grand prize every time they use their reusable bags. The following is a quick list of what is and isn’t acceptable: NO Multiple packages: Garbage, pet, yard Pet store bags for live animals: fish, insects Pesticide/Chemical bags Plastic Pollution is having a significant environmental impact particularly on marine life and coastlines.

There are three major impacts on marine ecosystems: Entanglement Over 250 species have been known to have ingested or become entangled in plastic (Laist, 1997) Entanglement rates of up to 7.9% have been discovered in some species of seals and sea lions (Allsopp et al) A UNEP report estimates that around 130,000 cetaceans are caught in nets each year (US EPA, 1992) Ingestion Over 100 species of sea birds are known to ingest plastic artefacts (Laist, 1997) According to Dr Jan Andries van Franeker, around 95% of Fulmers have plastic in their stomachs that affect them in chemical and mechanical ways 31 species of marine mammals are know to have ingested marine plastic (Allsopp et al) Transport of Invasive Species The increase in marine litter, in particular plastics has resulted in a corresponding increase in species invasion (Allsopp et al) Man-made litter has resulted in a significant increase in the opportunities for the transportation of alien species ‘Biotic mixing’ as a result of human activities is becoming a widespread problem (Barn

es, 2002) The hard surfaces of plastic debris is providing an attractive and alternative substrate for a number of organisms.

The introduction of non-endemic species can have a catastrophic impact on indigenous species and biodiversity and the increase in synthetic and non-biodegradable material pollution will accelerate the process (Gregory, 2009) From City & County of Honolulu: Overview Effective July 1, 2015, businesses shall be prohibited from providing plastic checkout bags and non-recyclable paper bags to their customers at the point of sale for the purpose of transporting groceries or other merchandise. Nothing in the ordinance shall preclude a business from making available to customers, with or without charge, at the point of sale: 1) reusable bags, compostable plastic bags, or recyclable paper bags for the purpose of transporting groceries or other merchandise; or 2) non-recyclable paper bags to protect or transport prepared foods, beverages, or bakery goods. Chapter 9, Article 9 of the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu regulates the use of plastic bags on Oahu, effective July 1, 2015. The City’s Department of Environmental Services is assigned the responsibility to implement and enforce the ban. Administrative Rules for Chapter 9 have already been promulgated.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) specific to the plastic bag ban will follow the definitions and restrictions as stipulated in the ordinance. Banned Plastic Bags “Plastic Checkout Bag” means a carryout bag that is provided by a business to a customer for the purpose of transporting groceries or other retail goods, and is made from non-compostable plastic and not specifically designed and manufactured for multiple re-use. The term “plastic checkout bag” does not include the following types of bags. The following types of bags are excluded from the ban and may continue in use.

(A) Bags used by customers inside a business to package loose items, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, ground coffee, grains, candies, or small hardware items; (B) Bags used to contain or wrap frozen foods, meat or fish, flowers or potted plants, or other items to contain dampness; (C) Bags used to protect or transport prepared foods, beverages, or bakery goods, including takeout bags used at restaurants, fast food restaurants, and lunch wagons, to transport prepared foods; (D) Bags provided by pharmacists to contain prescription medications; (E) Newspaper bags for home newspaper delivery; (F) Door-hanger bags; (G) Laundry, dry cleaning, or garment bags, including bags provided by hotels to guests to contain wet or dirty clothing; (H) Bags sold in packages containing multiple bags intended for use as garbage, pet waste, or yard waste bags; (I) Bags used to contain live animals, such as fish or insects sold in pet stores; (J) Bags used to transport chemical pesticides, drain-cleaning chemicals, or other caustic chemicals sold at the retail level; provided that this exemption shall be limited to one bag per customer; (K) Compostable plastic bags.

Acceptable Bags “Compostable Plastic Bag” means a checkout bag that is provided to a customer for the purpose of transporting groceries or other retail goods, that meets current ASTM D6400 Standard Specifications for compostability and that is labeled: 1) With the Biodegradable Product Institute (“BPI”) logo as meeting the ASTM standard for compostability; and 2) With “Compostable” on both sides of the bag in either green color lettering that is at least one inch in height, or as otherwise specified; or within a green color band that is at least one inch in height in order to be readily and easily identifiable.” “Recyclable Paper Bag” means a paper bag that: (1) is one hundred percent recyclable, (2) contains a minimum of forty percent post-consumer recycled content, and (3) displays the words “Reusable” and “Recyclable” in a highly visible manner on the outside of the bags.

“Reusable Bag” means a bag with handles that is specifically designed and manufactured for multiple reuse and is made of: (1) cloth or other washable fabric; or (2) durable material suitable for reuse, including plastic that is at least 2.25 mils thick. Timeline for Implementation By February 2015 — Notices will be sent to the affected businesses as a reminder of the impending ban and requesting the return of a compliance form indicating how the business plans to address the ban. The City cannot guarantee that its list of businesses will be all inclusive. If your business provides customers with a checkout bag, this ordinance applies to you. Please contact our office at 768-3200 for more information. July 1, 2015 — Inspection and enforcement. Businesses will be required to submit annual compliance forms. For questions or assistance, please contact the City’s Recycling Branch at 768-3200 or opala@honolulu.gov . Leave a reply Strauch, Abellira, Mulanovich, Graham, Boozer and Nuuhiwa Sr. inducted 31 July, 2015.

Huntington Beach – In the shadow of the US Open of Surfing, Surf City USA’s Main Street was blocked off to honor the newest class of inductees to the Surfing Walk of Fame on Thursday morning. Through a selection ballot, a host of respected surf industry veterans, former professionals and surf journalists narrowed down a field of hundreds of candidates to name the six 2015 Surfing Walk of Fame’s honorees in their respective categories – Reno Abellira (Surf Champion), Paul Strauch (Surf Pioneer), Dick Graham (Surf Culture), Sofia Mulanovich (Women of the Year), John Boozer (Local Hero) and David Nuuhiwa Sr. (Honor Roll). Emcee, former World Champion and past inductee Peter Townend welcomed the capacity crowd filled with previous Walk of Fame inductees, former Huntington mayors, a U.S. Senator (Janet Nguyen), surf industry notables and US Open surf fans. “Its a beautiful day in Huntington Beach,” Townend said, “to welcome our 22nd class of honored inductees.” Legendary Hawaiian surfer/shaper Reno Abellira garnered the Surf Champion title.

His stellar competitive career was capped with a win at the 1974 Smirnoff Pro in 30-foot surf at Waimea Bay. “There’s a saying that ‘life goes on…with or without you,’” Abellira smiled on stage. “There are good and bad moments and winning Waimea was one of the good ones. I’m just very honored to be included with this year’s class and I can’t say enough how much [fellow inductee] Paul Strauch meant to me as a teenage kid in Hawaii. I learned the message of sharing aloha to the world.” Members of the Surfing Walk of Fame class of 2015 Paul Strauch, Reno Abellira and Dick Graham, from left, join Fernando Aguerre (accepting for the absent Sofia Mulanovich), Morghan Boozer (accepting for the late John Boozer) and Melody Nuuhiwa (accepting for the late David Nuuhiwa Sr.) onstage after the induction ceremony Thursday. (Don Leach / HB Independent / July 30, 2015).

Strauch, an early Hawaiian standout and inventor of the “cheater five”, followed Abellira on stage to accept his Surf Pioneer plaque, while the unspoken feeling of aloha swirling through the crowd. He shared many memories of his long-standing career, while crediting his inspiration to Duke Kahanamoku, George Downing, Tom Blake, the Waikiki Beach Boys as well as Honor Roll inductee David Nuuhiwa Sr. “I was so lucky to have special people guiding me along the way when I was growing up,” Strauch said. “I started surfing on a redwood plank that I couldn’t carry to the water. But it was truly a miracle to have that experience in my life. Surfing is a spiritual connection with nature and riding waves gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment.” The Surf Culture honor went to Surfing Magazine founder Dick Graham, who along with photographer Leroy Grannis founded the waveriding legacy that has now reached 50 years in circulation. “A lot of memories come forth from some of the faces in the crowd here,” Graham admitted.

“I see a lot of old friends including the ‘fastest guy on a wave’.” (A reference to his famous quip in Surfing Magazine about a young Reno Abellira.) International Surfing Association President Fernando Aguerre accepted the Woman of the Year award on behalf of Sofia Mulanovich. The one and only Peruvian World Champion wasn’t present at the ceremony because she was surfing in the Maldives at a specialty event honoring a host of past World Champions. “Sofia is like a female George Washington for South American surfing,” Aguerre stated. “She’s inspired a lot of women to achieve their dreams not only in Peru but all over South America.” Also honored in this year’s ceremony, former Huntington mainstay and Hole-in-the-Wall Gang member John Boozer was recognized as the Local Hero. And ambassador of aloha to the Southern California contest scene David Nuuhiwa Sr. earned the Honor Roll spot. David Nuuhiwa Sr. was born in Honolulu in 1948, the son of a Waikiki beachboy and martial arts instructor, and began surfing at age five.

No matter which ocean you’re surfing in, trace waveriding’s roots back to their origin and you’ll end up in Hawaii. It was those legendary, iconic beach boys who set the standard and brought their stylish approach to the rest of the world. And this year’s Honor Roll inductee, David Nuuhiwa Sr. was at the forefront of bringing surfing and Hawaiian culture to California shorelines back in the 1930s. Even though he never entering the professional surfing ranks, his son David Jr. was excelled in the jersey winning a handful of notable contests. Also a renowned martial artist, David Sr. began working security at the Op Pro in Huntington Beach back in 1982. He eventually asked event director Ian Cairns if he could bless the contest before it began. Sure enough, Nuuhiwa showed up wearing white pants and shirt (a symbol of purity) as well as a necklace of kukui nuts. David Nuuhiwa Sr. Soon the ritual became a tradition and Nuuhiwa would unpack ti leaves and elie (Hawaiian rock salt from the island of Kauai).

He mixed the salt with ocean water, held the ti leaves like a wand and blessed the event site and competitors by sprinkling them with the sacred mixture. Sadly, Nuuhiwa Sr. died at 82 after a two-year battle with stomach cancer. A ring of over 70 surfers gave him a traditional sendoff during a memorial paddle out on the Southside of the HB Pier. Nuuhiwa, known for starting the tradition of blessing the waves before the U.S. Open of Surfing, died in 2005 at age 82 after a two-year battle with cancer. His daughter, Melody, and son, David Jr., accepted the award on his behalf. “Our ohana is very grateful that he was chosen this year for the honor roll, and we thank you for recognizing my father’s contributions to the surf industry,” Melody Nuuhiwa said. “I know he’s looking down from the heaven above and is very proud.” The Surfing Walk of Fame is the only tribunal in surfing to award specific categories as well as require a 10-year margin since the commemorating achievement.

This year’s recipients will be cemented alongside past inductees, earning their immortal place in the pavement on the corner of PCH and Main Street, directly across from the famous pier in Surf City USA — Huntington Beach, California. Past recipients of the Surfing Walk of Fame honors include Duke Kahanamoku, Kelly Slater, Lisa Anderson, Tom Curren, Bruce Brown, Eddie Aikau and more. The Surfing Walk of Fame celebrates once a year, the induction for each of five categories, Surf Pioneer, Surf Champion, Woman of the Year, Surf Culture, Local Hero, and our Honor Roll. Learn more at: Leave a reply The J-Bay Open , Stop No. 6 on the 2015 Samsung Galaxy World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT), was called off following a dramatic incident that involved three-time WSL Champion and defending event winner Mick Fanning (AUS) being attacked by a shark in the opening minutes of the Final against Julian Wilson (AUS). The scene unfolded live on WorldSurfLeague.com as the Australian fought off the animal and, after his leash snapped and he was separated from his surfboard, started swimming towards the shore as Wilson paddled over to assist.

Mick Fanning and the very unwelcome shark. The Water Safety Team arrived within seconds of the incident and while the large inflatable boat circled the area to ward off any further action from the shark, both surfers were picked up by jetskis. Despite his severed leash, Fanning remained physically unscathed by the incident. “We are incredibly grateful that no one was seriously injured today,” Kieren Perrow, WSL Commissioner, said. “Mick’s composure and quick acting in the face of a terrifying situation was nothing short of heroic and the rapid response of our Water Safety personnel was commendable – they are truly world class at what they do.” “The safety of our athletes is a priority for the WSL and, after discussions with both Finalists, we have decided to cancel the remainder of competition at the J-Bay Open. We appreciate the ongoing support we have in South Africa and once again want to express our gratitude to the Water Safety Team.” “I was just sitting there and I felt something grab or get stuck in my leg rope and I instantly just jumped away,” Fanning said. “It just kept coming at my board and I was kicking and screaming. I just saw fins, I didn’t see any teeth.

I was waiting for the teeth to come at me as I was swimming. I punched it in the back. I’m totally fine, I’ve got nothing wrong with me. There’s a small depression in my board and my leg rope got bitten and I’m totally tripping out.” “I was just cruising and waiting for my turn, my opportunity and I knew Julian (Wilson) was down the point,” continued Fanning. “I was just about to get moving and start paddling again and all of a sudden I had this instinct that something was behind me. I started getting pulled underwater and then the thing came up and I was on my board and it was right there. I saw the whole thing thrashing around but I was getting dragged under by my leg rope. I felt like it kicked me off but it was still there going and I was still attached to my board. I felt like I punched it a couple of times and then it was dragging me and then my leg rope broke.” Three-time WSL Champion Fanning (AUS) claimed a solid win with a 15.67 heat total. Fanning attacked the lineup with power and strength, showcasing his trademark smooth, polished lines.

The Australian matched-up against replacement surfers Tomas Hermes (BRA) and Michael February (ZAF). February, trials runner-up, took his place in the competition as a replacement for rookie Matt Banting (AUS) who withdrew from the competition today after injuring his knee during a freesurf. (ASP-Cestar) “I started swimming and screaming and yelling at Jules (Julian Wilson) to move as well, but he was coming at me,” said Fanning. “What a legend, coming after me. I was swimming in and I turned around and I had this thought, what happens if it comes to have another go at me, so I turned around so I could at least see it coming. Before I knew it the boat was there, the jet skis were there and we were in safely. I just can’t believe it. To walk away from that, I’m just so stoked. I want to let all my family and friends know that I’m okay.” “Mick (Fanning) was kind of out in no man’s land so I was really watching him and had my eyes on him,” said Wilson. “Mick (Fanning) was looking down the point and I saw the whole thing pop up behind him.

It came up and he was wrestling it. I saw him get knocked off his board and then a wave popped up and I thought, ‘he’s gone’. I felt like I couldn’t get there quick enough.” “The results don’t mean anything to me, I’m just happy he’s alive. I literally thought when I was paddling for him that I wasn’t going to get there in time, especially when I saw him off his board and swimming away. I thought it was going to grab him and take him under. I’m so happy we’re both on the beach right now, I was so worried about Mick’s life.” Applying the rules relating to ‘Force Majeure’, the WSL awarded both Fanning and Wilson equal second place and 8,000 points on the Jeep Leaderboard. They will split the prize money between them equally, receiving $70,000 (about R840 000) each. The result sees Fanning move up two places to second on the rankings, Wilson move up to third and Adriano de Souza (BRA), who was eliminated by Wilson in the Quarterfinals, retains the Jeep rankings leader’s yellow jersey.

Before the incident occurred the pair was set for an exciting 40-minute all-Australian Final with Wilson searching for his first CT win at Jeffreys Bay and Fanning looking to defend his J-Bay Open title and claim his 21st CT victory. The pair has had four previous head-to-head heats with Fanning claiming the win each time. Earlier in the day the form goofyfooter of the event, Adrian Buchan (AUS), faced Wilson in an all-Australian clash in the opening Semifinal. Wilson advanced to the Final thanks to his heat-high opening score, leaving Buchan with third place in the event. Buchan jumps up ten places to 20th on the Jeep Leaderboard and marks his first Semifinal appearance since the 2014 Billabong Pipe Masters. “At the moment it doesn’t feel great” said Buchan. “I had an opportunity at the end and didn’t really finish, but I feel really proud that I’ve got my year back on track and I felt like I was doing the surfing here to go all the way. It was great to have a good battle out there with Julian (Wilson) in pumping J-Bay.

I feel confident at all the locations coming up, I’ve had big results everywhere and I know I can perform at all the spots left.” The second Semifinal saw Kelly Slater (AUS) and Fanning, the two most successful surfers at Jeffreys Bay and long time rivals, battle for a place in the Final. The pair has had 15 previous man-on-man heats in CT history, with Slater taking 9 wins to Fanning’s 6 and their last match-up was the Final in Fiji in 2013. Two 8-point rides from Fanning with less than ten minutes gone left the 11-time World Champion in a combination situation. Slater managed to escape with an excellent 9.43 for a long floater, quick barrel and series of carving turns but was left searching for a 7.30. Fanning sealed the deal with a 9.63 in the final minutes and sailed through to the Final. The Semifinal berth for Slater marks his best result of the season sees him move up to 6th place on the rankings. “Now I’ve seen it all,” said Slater of the attack.

“I was coming up the beach and I saw all the boats and skis go straight to the lineup. I knew there was only one possible reason that would ever happen in a contest and that’s if someone got attacked by a shark. I ran up the beach trying to get some information. I’m halfway between crying and laughing because he (Fanning) got so lucky. I’m lost for words to be honest. We almost just watched our friend get eaten by a shark and I’m just blown away that there’s no damage at all.” World no. 1 Adriano de Souza (BRA) was sent home after the Quarterfinals by Wilson. With only seven waves surfed during the 35-minute clash it was the Australian that held the edge and took the win. De Souza wasn’t able to find the waves or the scores he needed but retains his place at the top of the rankings heading into the next event in Tahiti. “Julian (Wilson) is such a good surfer,” De Souza said. “I think I lost that heat for myself, I lost my rhythm on my last wave and that cost me. I’m definitely in the hunt for a good result in Tahiti right now.

I started my training early and I’m trying to get strong. I just need to do well and get to the Quarters or Semis at every single contest. That’s my goal. At this stage everyone has a chance and I’m focused on my training and my equipment.” Reigning WSL Champion Gabriel Medina (BRA) was also eliminated in the Quarterfinals at the hands of Semifinalist Slater. Despite a strong showing from the Brazilian and an impressive 17.23 heat total two nine-point rides from the 11-time World Champion were too much for Medina to overcome. A 5th place finish sees Medina move to 15th place on the Jeep Leaderboard heading into Stop No. 7, the Billabong Pro Tahiti. “We both got some sick waves,” said Medina. “It’s hard to beat Kelly (Slater) out here, especially when the waves are like this. He’s the guy out here and I knew that was going to be tough. There isn’t much I can do, but I had fun out there and I’m happy with the end result. I’m excited for Tahiti. Last year I had a great result over there.

Now I’m going back home to get prepared.” Leave a reply Amid small waves and a massive crowd on the beach, Johanne Defay (FRA) swept the field and won the Championship Tour (CT) Vans US Open of Surfing . In the men’s Qualifying Series (QS) contest, Hiroto Ohhara (JPN) was the king of the beachbreak, bringing a mix of hacks, airs and small-wave maneuvers. With his win, he earns the best competitive result ever from a Japanese surfer. Defay’s win was her first-ever on the elite Championship Tour, and comes during a sophomore season in which she has been steadily climbing up the Jeep rankings . She defeated CT veteran Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) in a tense Final at Huntington Beach Pier. The win earns her 10,000 points and a boost up the Jeep Leaderboard. “I don’t think I can put it into words,” she said. “It’s very hard to digest and I don’t know how to say how I feel — it’s so crazy. I’m very happy to have some of my friends here and I’m thinking of the people back home too.

I guess it’s all the work I’ve done before and it’s all come together.” Key to her win was an early jump on the action, in which she earned a heat-high score of 7.67 for a series of backhand snaps. That opening performance gave her the lead and put pressure on Fitzgibbons, who was left looking for a 5.52. Fitzgibbons found a comeback wave with just five minutes left, showcasing a flat reverse and taking it through the reform for 7.00 and the lead. With the tension mounting and the seconds ticking down, Defay answered with two big turns for 5.87. The score put her back in the lead, and earned her the win. “It was tricky at the start but then I got that score which put me in a better position,” she said. “Last year everything was so new and this year I feel way more comfortable.” Defay’s triumph, however, came at a cost. On her way to the Final, she faced her close friend, South African Bianca Buitendag , in a rematch of their Semifinal in Fiji, in which Buitendag out-scored her friend.

This time around was a different story. After a neck-and-neck heat, Defay won by the narrowest of margins, 0.01, to earn her first ever CT Final appearance. The next Semi was a battle of Tour titans, hometown hero Courtney Conlogue (USA) vs. Aussie powerhouse Sally Fitzgibbons . Conlogue had a slow start, and was scoreless at the halfway point. Fitzgibbons, meanwhile, was running away with the lead, and threw a no-grab flat reverse for good measure before defeating the Californian. Despite Conlogue’s loss, she became World No. 1, which means she’ll wear the Jeep leader’s yellow jersey at the CT Trestles Women’s Pro. Among the men, Ohhara earned the biggest result of his career after defeating Tanner Hendrickson (HAW) in a hard-fought Final. The 10,000 points Ohhara earned catapults him up the QS rankings , from No. 81 to No. 13, putting him within reach of qualifying for the elite CT in 2016. “I don’t know how to say it, I’m just so stoked,” said Ohhara.

“It feels like something very special today. Now I think I’m really looking forward to the rest of the year. I’ve learned everything here and I got a good result here.” Ohhara became the first Japanese surfer to make the Final at the Vans US Open of Surfing after defeating local favorite Kanoa Igarashi (USA) in the opening Semifinal. It was Hendrickson, however, who sent shockwaves through the stands in his Semifinal, when he ousted defending event winner and CT standout Filipe Toledo (BRA). The unsponsored underdog needed a 5.03 to overtake Toledo, and with eight minutes remaining went for big powerful snaps, earning a 6.07 to force a lead change and leave Toledo looking to score 7.08. With just under two minutes left, the Brazilian phenom, who’s known as a small-wave expert, took a wave but fell on his final maneuver and didn’t get the score, leaving the competition in third place. The next CT event for Toledo will be the Billabong Pro Tahiti.

Ohhara will have a shot in the CT field in September at Lower Trestles where he will be competing as a wildcard after winning the Hurley Trials just a week before competing in Huntington. Photo: WSL/Morris 1 Reply Hawaii’s AccesSurf is practically outgrowing itself. More than 100 people participate in AccesSurf programs each month, up from average participation rates of 30 per month five years ago. Approximately 400 dedicated volunteers provide free assistance to people with physical or cognitive disabilities, as well as veterans in the Wounded Warrior Project, in water sports each month. Participants surf, swim, kayak, stand-up paddle, or prone paddle at various beaches on Oahu. The nonprofit’s programs have been so successful that they have caught the attention of the International Surfing Association. This September, the very first ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship will be held in San Diego. The goal is to get adaptive surfing included in the Paralympics, says AccesSurf Executive Director Cara Short . “AccesSurf was the first in Hawaii to provide this level of programs for people,” she said.

“There are only a handful around the world that work in this capacity, but I haven’t found one to this degree. ISA is now recognizing it because of the work we’ve been doing, along with other organizations around the world.” Hawaii will send its own team of nine to participate in the world championship, separately from the U.S. team. Short, the only full-time staff member at the organization, hopes to acquire more funds to expand program staff and to take the programs to Neighbor Islands. The nonprofit currently relies on individual donations for more than half of its $150,000 annual budget. “We kind of grew too fast, but in no means a negative way,” she said. “Now we need to maintain these programs and keep up with the demand.” The next “Day at the Beach” program will be held Aug. 8 at Kualoa Regional Park. AccesSurf will also hold its annual adaptive surf competition later next month during the Duke’s OceanFest surfing competition in Waikiki. Participants may enter in four heat categories: sit/kneel, stand, prone, and assisted surfing. “When it started, we had everyone in the same heat,” she said, smiling.

“It’s grown so we’ve been able to break it up in different divisions and it’s become very competitive.” Leave a reply Kuda Huraa, Maldives: Hawaiian Shane Dorian has defeated Dave Rastovich (AUS) in the final of the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy twin fin division. Dorian, the standout of the day posted a heat total of 15.60 to overcome the twin fin specialist Rastovich who was unable to find the wave he needed in the final minutes. Photo: World Surf League Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy WSL Specialty Event Kuda Huraa, Maldives 3 – 9 August 2015 “I never ever ride twin fins,” said Dorian. “I didn’t really know how to approach it or how I should ride it, but it felt good. The waves were fun and really good for twin fins, fast and down the line” Dorian enjoyed sharing the final with fellow team rider and long time friend Rastovich. “It was an absolute pleasure having the opportunity to surf in the final against Rasta, a real treat. I’m just stoked to be here.

Even though I didn’t feel comfortable on that board, it was amazing to see Dave, Harley (Ingleby) and Neco (Padaratz) and how good they can surf those different boards. I would never have thought I would have beaten Rasta, in the finals, on a twin fin in good waves.” Although not coming away with a win, Rastovich’s second final appearance for the event means he is currently leading the pack and is looking like a strong contender for consecutive Champions Trophy finals. “Shane and I have surfed heaps over the years and to see him on a twin fin was rad,” Rastovich said. “Seeing him flairing in waves like that, I was pumped, really good vibes all day. The waves were fun, nice, clean and glassy. Look where we are, we’re in paradise.” Yesterday’s runner-up, Neco Padaratz continued his good form in the twin fin division, scoring another great tube ride, posting a 9.27 and an 8.17 for an incredible heat total of 17.44. Padaratz was unable to top Dorian’s almost perfect heat, posting the competitions highest heat total of 19.27.

Rastovich was able to progress to his second final of the contest after beating 2006 World Big Wave Champion, and 1991 Championship Tour Runner-up, Brad Gerlach (USA). Needing a 9-point ride in the final minute, Gerlach took off on a set wave, only to come unstuck on his third turn and narrowly missed progressing to the final. “I thought I may as well just go for it, at least try and do a couple of turns,” said Gerlach. “I knew on that wave, a nine would be almost impossible but if I nailed a few turns and got an eight, then I could try and find another score really quickly. I’m really looking forward to the thruster division. I know it’s my strength. I can’t complain though, this is the best surfing resort in the world, then you have this boat, the Four Seasons Explorer, the service is great. I’m really glad to be here.” Two of the most exciting heats of the day occurred in the opening round, which consisted of two three-person heats, where third position of each heat would be knocked out of the day’s competition.

In today’s division, those two competitors were 2004 WSL Women’s World Champion Sofía Mulánovich (PER), and the current WSL Longboard World Champion, Harley Ingleby (AUS) who only missed out on progressing by 0.13. Both competitors were disappointed not to make it through to the semifinals, but were able to focus on the positives. “I think I’m probably out of contention for the final now, but I’ve just been sitting back, relaxing and enjoying the show,” Ingleby said. “It’s a really relaxed vibe on the boat, everyone has been surfing sick. It’s been a fun day. I’m looking forward to the thruster division now, surfing with all this crew in these type of waves, it’s awesome.” The next and final round of competition is a little more conventional, with the board of choice being the modern shape of the high performance thruster.

Results Twin Fin Shane Dorian (HAW) 15.60 Dave Rastovich (AUS) 13.27 Semifinals SF1: Dave Rastovich (AUS) 15.81 Brad Gerlach (USA) 15.84 SF2: Shane Dorian (HAW) 19.27 Neco Padaratz (BRA) 17.44 Opening Round Heat 1: Shane Dorian (HAW) 18.17 Dave Rastovich (AUS) 16.60 Harley Ingleby (AUS) 16.47 Heat 2: Brad Gerlach (USA) 16.60 Neco Padaratz (BRA) 7.67 Sofía Mulánovich (PER) 14.43 Leader Board Leave a reply The Surfers’ Hall of Fame Welcomes Gordon Clark, Clifton James “CJ” Hobgood & John Davis as its 2015 Inductees HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.

– Friday, July 31, 2015 – The Surfers’ Hall of Fame added yet another chapter to its storied history today when it inducted three legendary watermen: Gordon “Grubby” Clark, a visionary surfboard blank manufacturer, Clifton James “CJ” Hobgood, a former world and U.S. Open of Surfing champion and John Davis, the first captain of the Huntington Beach High School Surf Team and local surfing icon. All three of the new inductees now have their hand and footprints immortalized in cement for the ages in front of Huntington Surf & Sport at the corner of PCH and Main Street. Further information is available at . Pastor Sumo Sato blessed today’s standing-room-only ceremony followed by remarks from Huntington Beach Mayor Jill Hardy. “Huntington Beach is a big city that functions with a small town atmosphere,” said Hardy. “The surf culture is part of who we are and the Surfer’s Hall of Fame is a great personal connection to a great small town.” Surfers’ Hall of Fame founder Aaron Pai then welcomed the industry, surfing royalty, dignitaries and the inductees themselves.

“When I surfed the pier at 12 years old John Davis was the hottest surfer out there and he’s still out there everyday like an Eveready Battery,” said Pai. “CJ is an amazing surfer with amazing contributions and achievements in our Sport of Surfing! And Gordon Clark was a heavy, heavy powerful person in his day, transforming the industry through innovation with his polyurethane foam blanks. Millions of surfers have ridden his boards.” John Davis – Moir John Davis: Born in Lynwood in 1951, John learned to surf at age 12 at Doheny on a Dewey Weber board and “was hooked for life.” By the mid to late sixties he was a hot teenage surfer sponsored by “The Greek” Surfboards, doing well in local amateur events and was elected the first Surf Club Team Captain of the Huntington Beach High School surf team in 1967.

John took his talents to Oahu where he raised more than a few eyebrows with a 2nd place finish at the 1969 Sea Spree at Haleiwa behind Fred Hemmings and a 3rd place at Honolua Bay in 1970 finishing behind the legendary Gerry Lopez and Barry Kanaiapuna. John surprised many in the surf world when he won the North Shore Trials of the Smirnoff Pro Am at Sunset Beach ahead of Australian Mark Warren in 1972. In 1973 when the U.S. Surfing Championships moved to Malibu, John had to start at the bottom and work his way through the trials, which he won. He would ultimately place third in the main event behind Hawaiians Larry Bertleman and Mike Smith. That would be his final foray into competitive surfing as John began a lengthy battle with addiction that would change his life and ultimately lead him to his current role as the President of Akua Mind and Body, an addiction treatment facility in Orange County. “I started surfing in Huntington Beach and along the way I lost my way,” said Davis. “After an extended vacation in Club Med I came back here and was given a second chance.

I met my wife who inspired the term ‘hit the bottom, make the turn’ (which he inscribed in concrete). I want to thank Aaron for this opportunity, because I turned my back on this town and didn’t feel like I deserved a spot here. Seventeen years ago I turned my life around and the city welcomed me back with open arms.” Andy Verdone, current coach of the Huntington Beach High Surf Team said, “John has been the best surfer in Huntington Beach for a long time.” Former world champion Peter “PT” Townend added, “John Davis has been one of the best surfers in HB for 50 years.” Born in Lynwood on July 3, 1951, John learned to surf at age 12 at Doheny on a Dewey Weber board and was hooked for life. By the mid to late sixties he was a hot teenage surfer sponsored by “The Greek” Surfboards, doing well in local amateur events. John was elected the first Surf Club Team Captain of the Huntington Beach High School surf team in 1967 and would later graduate from HBHS in 1969.

John took his talents to Oahu where he raised more than a few eyebrows with a 2nd place finish at the 1969 Sea Spree at Haleiwa behind Fred Hemmings and a 3rd place at Honolua Bay in 1970 finishing behind the legendary Gerry Lopez and Barry Kanaiapuna. John surprised many in the surf world when he won the North Shore Trials of the Smirnoff Pro Am at Sunset Beach ahead of Australian Mark Warren in 1972. When the U.S. Surfing Championships moved to Malibu in 1973, John had to start at the bottom and work his way through the trials, which he won. He would ultimately place third in the main event behind Hawaiians Larry Bertleman and Mike Smith. That would be his final foray into competitive surfing as John began a lengthy battle with addiction that would change his life and ultimately lead him to his current role as the President of Akua Mind and Body, an addiction treatment facility in Orange County. John Davis spent many years in addiction and crime that sent him to prison twice, one of those terms in Mexico. As a result he was unable to surf for almost 8 years.

“I’ve known many surfers whose lives ended following this lifestyle,” said Davis. “Fortunately, 17 years ago I was blessed with sobriety following my last prison term. I’ve received many gifts; my wife, children, my career and my own business…and 17 more years of surfing. “ Although John counts surfing legends like John Boozer (for his cutback), Phil Edwards (for his smoothness), and Gerry Lopez (showed him how to ride the barrel) among his idols, his biggest “surf” influence was Bob “The Greek” Bolen who has sponsored John for 50 years and finally made him his own signature model; a 7’0” Shorty John Davis Pro Flex. John is a regular on the Huntington Beach Pier north side almost every day and, together with his wife, follows developments on the world tour, often texting back and forth during WCT events. “JD” considers the three results in Hawaii as his most memorable surfing moments. “The trophies from those contests were lost 25 years ago,” said Davis. “Remarkably they were returned to me via Bud Llamas about two years ago.

They are now my most prized possessions.” Clifton James “CJ” Hobgood: Floridians CJ and twin brother Damien were born in 1979 and began riding waves together at an early age. CJ won the menehune division of the 1991 Eastern Surfing Association Championships, was the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) national juniors’ champion in 1995 and in 1997 he became the NSSA East Coast men’s champion. CJ turned pro in 1998 and finished the 1999 season ranked 18th in the world, receiving ASP Rookie of the Year honors. He quickly earned a reputation as an all-conditions pro; a creative aerial technician in smaller waves and a fearless tuberider at places like Pipeline and Teahupoo. CJ earned his first big-league pro win at the 2000 Hossegor Rip Curl Pro and was named as “Breakthrough Surfer of the Year” at the Surfer Magazine Awards. The tenacious goofy-footer finished fourth in 2004 and won the 2007 U.S. Open of Surfing.

Since 2003, CJ and Damien have held Camp Hobgood, a roving international surf retreat for rising young pros. CJ has appeared in dozens of surf movies. He recently announced his retirement from the sport after 17 years. CJ Hobgood – Servais “All I wanted to do was go surf,” said CJ. “I realized that I had a gift and I was passionate about the ocean. God gave me that gift and my mom made me do things the right way. Now I am at the halfway point in my life and I’m blessed to have the opportunity to do for others what was done for me.” PT shared a funny anecdote about when he was the marketing vp for Rusty and CJ was a team rider. “We added a $50,000 world title incentive which was left in the agreement because no one at Rusty thought he would win the championship. And CJ went on to win!” “CJ Hobgood has been on the World Tour for nearly two decades and has brought endless amounts of pure stoked to the fans and to the Surfing World!,” said Surfers’ Hall of Fame founder Aaron Pai.

“He’s an amazing surfer and amazing waterman along with being a great ambassador for our Sport of Surfing! Honored and delighted to Induct CJ Hobgood into the Surfers’ Hall of Fame!” CJ and his twin brother Damien were born on July 6, 1979 in Melbourne, Florida and began riding waves together at an early age. He entered his first local surfing contest in 1989 and made the open boys final. Hobgood won the menehune division of the 1991 Eastern Surfing Association Championships setting up a long run at the top of the national amateur ranks. He was the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) national juniors’ champion in 1995 and in 1997 he became the NSSA East Coast men’s champion. And in 1998 he was selected as the model for the new NSSA logo. Following his graduation from Satellite High School in 1997, CJ turned pro in 1998 and finished the 1999 season ranked 18th in the world, receiving Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Rookie-of-the-Year honors.

He quickly earned a reputation as an “all conditions” pro; a creative aerial technician in smaller waves and a fearless tube rider at places like Pipeline and Teahupoo. CJ’s first grand prix victory came at the 2000 Hossegor Rip Curl Pro and he finished the year ranked in the top 10 at number seven. His myriad achievements at such a young age would yield the “Breakthrough Surfer of the Year” at the Surfer Magazine Awards. In 2001 at age 22 despite not winning any WCT contests that year, Hobgood won his first and only World Title in a season shorted by three events following the 9/11 attacks. One of professional surfing’s true gentlemen the tenacious goofy-footer finished fourth in 2004, fifth in 2008 and seventh in 2009. He notched memorable victories in the 2007 U.S. Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach and 2008 O’Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach, part of the prestigious Van’s Triple Crown of Surfing.

In 2011, he briefly dropped off the tour, but re-qualified in a matter of months even after turning down several wild-card invitations to WCT events. Since 2003, CJ and Damien have held Camp Hobgood, a roving international surf retreat for rising young pros. CJ has appeared in dozens of surf videos including Triple C (1996), Sacred Water (1999), Campaign (2003), A Brokedown Melody (2004), and Year Zero (2011). He currently resides in Satellite Beach with his wife and daughter, near his younger brother Travis, his younger sister Marissa, and his parents. Following 17 years on the pro tour and after flirting with retirement for the past few years, last month CJ announced that this would be his final year on the World Tour. “The relationships with the people that I have met are the things that stick out in my mind most,” said Hobgood to the Space Coast Daily.

“The people who have been most influential in my career have been (Kelly) Slater, Occy (Mark Occhilupo), Andy Irons, and most of all my brother who has also pushed me the hardest and made me the maddest.” When asked about his future plans Hobgood said, “Space Coast here I come. It’s always about giving back and finding those opportunities to give the gift I’ve been given to the next generation, and others who are stoked on surfing. I get to spend more time in the place I love that laid the foundation of who I am and all the friends I have.” Gordon ‘Grubby’ Clark: Gordon Clark was born in Gardena on January 19th, 1933. He learned to surf while attending Pomona College in the late ’40s and ’50s, where he earned a B.S. in engineering. Gordon landed his first paying job in the surf industry was when he was 19. He began working for the legendary Tom Blake, inventor of the surfboard fin after going to Hawaii and running out of money. From Blake, Clark was able to learn the history of surfboard construction dating back to the 1920’s.

At the same time Gordon met designer and shaper Bob Simmons who shared with him some of his experiences with the EPS/epoxy surfboard technology that he had invented in 1948. Gordon Grubby Clark – Morgan In 1955, after spending two years in the army, Clark began working as a laminator for Hobie Surfboards to help pay for the remainder of his college education. Clark began to develop polyurethane foam molds in the mid-’50s, looking for a replacement material for balsa wood, which was costly and often hard to find. In June of 1958 Hobie Alter started mass production of his foam blanks. This event triggered an incredible demand as Hobie’s boards were lighter, more maintenance free, and, unlike balsa, had a supply of raw material that was almost unlimited. Clark made an amicable split from Hobie in 1961 to form Clark Foam in Laguna Canyon—later relocating to Laguna Niguel—and by the mid-’60s Clark had become the runaway leader in blank production. At its height Clark Foam produced an estimated 90% of blanks sold in America and 60% of those sold worldwide.

“We’re stoked and excited to induct Gordon Clark into the 2015 Surfers’ Hall of Fame,” said founder Aaron Pai. “Gordon’s impact on the surfboard industry stretched across five decades and included many significant technological developments that improved the ‘surfing’ experience for millions of surfers across the globe.” Gordon Clark was born in Gardena on January 19th, 1933. He learned to surf while attending Pomona College in the late ’40s and ’50s, where he earned a B.S. in engineering. Gordon landed his first paying job in the surf industry was when he was 19. He began working for the legendary Tom Blake, inventor of the surfboard fin after going to Hawaii and running out of money. From Blake, Clark was able to learn the history of surfboard construction dating back to the 1920’s. At the same time Gordon met designer and shaper Bob Simmons who shared with him some of his experiences with the EPS/epoxy surfboard technology that he had invented in 1948.

In 1955, after spending two years in the army, Clark began working as a laminator for Hobie Surfboards during the summer and over holidays to help pay for the remainder of his college education. Clark began to develop polyurethane foam molds in the mid-’50s, looking for a replacement material for balsa wood, which was costly and often hard to find. One week after Hobie started his development of the first successful polyurethane foam core surfboard, Gordon went to work full-time on the project. In June of 1958 Hobie Alter started mass production of his foam blanks. This event triggered an incredible demand as Hobie’s boards were lighter, more maintenance free, and, unlike balsa, had a supply of raw material that was almost unlimited. Clark made an amicable split from Hobie in 1961 to form Clark Foam in Laguna Canyon—later relocating to Laguna Niguel—and by the mid-’60s Clark had become the runaway leader in blank production. At its height Clark Foam produced an estimated 90% of blanks sold in America and 60% of those sold worldwide.

Highlights and innovations include: Clark Foam developed inexpensive, steel reinforced cement molds that were hydraulically operated which allowed very accurate mold tolerances. Over the years this technology was improved, eventually allowing dozens of different mold sizes for different markets and types of waves. This saved on raw material as well as shipping and labor costs. Another notable achievement was the “hot coat” or “fill coat”; the coat of resin put on the fiberglass after the layup. The original reason was to eliminate the “itch” caused by sanding fiberglass, but a side benefit was keeping the lengthwise strength of the fiberglass. This technique was universally adopted throughout the foam surfboard industry. By the end of 1968 Clark Foam was making all its own resins from commodity chemicals bought by truckload and stored and processed in large tanks, eliminating 55-gallon drums, labor and waste. Clark also kept a full wood mill on the premise, making the operation virtually self-contained. In 1969 Clark Foam introduced the first full container load and rail car shipments to Hawaii, the East Coast and a number of foreign countries. This development greatly expanded the available of quality blanks and surfboards outside of California.

In 1974 Clark Foam built the first hydraulically operated glue presses. This innovation led to very close tolerance gluing and eventually over 5,500 rocker templates kept in a computer database. In 1978 Clark Foam began an ongoing effort to utilize computers (using custom software developed by Clark) to boost productivity, improve quality controls in the manufacturing process, fine tune inventory control and ultimately offer a wider selection of products. This created a wide range of close tolerance blanks, saving raw material and shaping labor. It was estimated that Clark sold about 300,000 blanks annually in the early 2000s, which were distributed through warehouses in Florida, Hawaii, England, and France. The Clark plant had three shifts, and was often open seven days a week. Clark constantly updated and refined his product, and remained in contact with the surf industry by sending out long, detailed memos with titles like “Analysis of Future Trends in Surfboard Construction.” Gordon Clark attributed his success to the fact that nobody else wanted to do the job. “There’s nothing romantic about foam,” he said in 1972.

“It’s dirty, messy and smelly, and nothing you’d dream of doing for a career.” Hobie Alter stated that Clark became the blank king because he’s “unbelievably efficient.” Surfer magazine named Clark as the 10th most influential surfer of the 20th century. In 2002 the magazine ranked him #2 behind Quiksilver CEO Bob McKnight, on their list of the “25 Most Powerful People in Surfing.” Clark’s business fortunes were the subject of “Blank Monday”, a 2006 New Yorker feature in which Clark was portrayed as a kind of surfy cross between Bill Gates and Howard Hughes. In a move that shocked and briefly paralyzed the board industry, Clark shuttered his business in December of 2005. At the time of its closing, there were about 70 blanks in the Clark Foam line, ranging in size from 5′ 9″ to 12′ 8″ along with seven different foam densities, a number of center-cut wood stringer choices, and thousands of rocker options.

Many of the Clark Foam molds had been designed by the world’s top surfboard shapers, including Dale Velzy, Rusty Preisendorfer, Pat Rawson and Dick Brewer. Not long after his business closed, Clark moved to his 52,000-acre central Oregon ranch and began raising cattle and sheep. The Surfers’ Hall of Fame induction ceremony pays tribute to those individuals who have made an indelible mark on the sport, industry and culture of surfing. Annually, tens of thousands of visitors travel to Huntington Beach’s downtown area and literally walk in the footsteps of surfing superstars and legends from several eras including Laird Hamilton, Andy Irons, Jack O’Neill, Robert August, Bob Hurley, Sean Collins, Kelly Slater, Lisa Andersen, Andy Verdone, Al Merrick, Shaun Tomson, Rob Machado, Rockin’ Fig and Rabbit Kekai, who are already immortalized in cement. The nation’s first imprint collection of legendary surfers, the Surfers’ Hall of Fame celebrated its first induction in 1997 inside of specialty retailer Huntington Surf & Sport where several slabs remain.

Four years later with the blessing of the City Council and a stunning bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku serving as a backdrop, the ceremony moved outside to the corner of PCH and Main, less than 100 feet from the famed Huntington Beach Pier, site of the Vans U.S. Open of Surfing. Download High Resolution Photos: Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Mary Doherty, MKM Leave a reply Toledo’s air game paid off. Once again. The Brazilian surfer defeated Bede Durbidge with a near-perfect final, i.e., a total heat score of 19.87. Filipe won two of the first four stages in the 2015 World Surf League season. “I don’t know what to say. The first thing I did was cry because look at the crowd, I’ve never seen anything like that before. It’s been such a blessed week and I have such amazing friends and family. I need to be grateful for everything I have and everything God has done in my life,” expressed Toledo. “It’s been my dream to win this contest here and since the year that I qualified I’ve been dreaming of this day. I’m feeling really confident right now.

It’s going to be a really amazing year for me and the Brazilians and I’m hoping to finish in the top 5 and fight for the title at the end of the year.” The capacity crowd at Barra da Tijuca Beach backed his hero. Filipe Toledo is ready to embark on a world title race. The upcoming challenge is Fiji. Will the Brazilian handle the pressure? In the Oi Women’s Rio Pro, Courtney Conlogue defeated Bianca Buitendag. The American put the Australian in combination situation with less than ten minutes gone. “The passion of the Brazilians is unbelievable. They’ve been screaming and it really makes me want to do well. I haven’t ever had two wins in a season so it’s a great start. I’m feeling good and I want to keep this momentum going into Fiji. I can’t wait for that wave, I haven’t surfed it since I was 11 and it’s going to be so fun,” added Conlogue. “The hard work is definitely paying off and the injury last year really made me reflect and see just how much I want it. I really broke everything down and why I do what I do.

I’m just enjoying what I’m doing right now and I’m so happy to be able to surf in these events and give it my best performance. We’ll see how that goes for the rest of the season, who knows.” Oi Rio Pro 2015 | Final Filipe Toledo (BRA), 19.85 def. Bede Durbidge (AUS), 14.70 Oi Rio Women’s Pro 2015 | Final Courtney Conlogue (USA), 14.50 def. Bianca Buitendag (ZAF), 11.10 Photo: WSL/Smorigo

Question: What self-proclaimed birthplace of surfing announced in 2011 that the activity would become (in 2013) an official college sport?
Answer: Hawaii