Check out the new video featuring club members Jeane and Tanya just “Rippin’ It!” on Lake Grapevine. Longboard wakesurfing is the closest experience to the ocean and even better, no sharks and an endless wave; Jeane and Tanya can’t get enough . . .
Check out more great videos on our Youtube Page
Inland Texas shapes! As the sport of wakesurfing continues to grow in popularity so too will the boards from the hands of new local surf companies like Tuk Tuk (Austin) and Fitzpatrick Surf (Fort Worth). Along with the addition of new surf parks- NLand Surf Park in Austin and American Wave Machines at BSR (Barefoot Ski Ranch) in Waco, not to mention the ever growing popularity of SUP, Texas based shapers like Tom Haney (Tuk Tuk), Alec Wood (Waterloo), Brock Dumoit (Doomswell), Nick Wiersema (Chaos Surf) and Mike Fitzpatrick (Fitzpatrick Surf) have expanded their reach. A surfboard is a means to surf, it is a piece of art and most importantly, it is a relationship. The growth of wakesurfing in Texas goes hand in hand with the support of local Texas shapers, local athletes and local surf shops.
The good news is that each of these shapers is doing a pretty darn good job at representing Texas. Some, like Brock Dumoit (Houston), with Doomswell Boarding Co, have grown beyond their production capabilities and have expanded into a global market.
“It’s insane seeing how our company grew from a garage in 2010 into where it is today. We have now refined our manufacturing process to be more streamline and can now scale to meet our dealers and customers expectations in a timely manner. At the same time, the sport is continuing to flourish in all directions and inland surf parks is a growing market we hope to dive into and back to our Texas ocean surfing roots.”
Born in raised in Colleyville, TX and a shaping room in his parents backyard, Mike Fitzpatrick, 31, has even added handplanes to his list of shapes, both for Texans and beyond. Here’s a fun little video of Mike in the shaping room:
Tuk Tuk, another Austin based wakesurf company, and its founder/shaper- Tom Haney, enjoy playing around with new shapes and new materials for wake/surf boards in the shaping room equipped with a C and C machine near Steiner Ranch where the annual Barrel Boss wakesurfing competition is held.
Meanwhile Alec with Waterloo Soul Craft is enjoying the growth of longboard wakesurfing and shaping the walking blocks of the next big division in the sport, for athletes like their team rider Tegan Gainan. Nose riding behind the boat? Yep!
Nick Wiersema, Austin based shaper for nearly a decade, has seen the benefit of being a Texas based company for years through Chaos and Shredstixx customs. For Nick, buying from a local shaper is
“about building a relationship, a family, community. You buy local because there is something intrinsically pure about working directly with your shaper. You can accomplish this at a distance with modern technology, but nothing beats sitting down face to face with a true craftsman and letting him walk you through a series of questions which will illuminate the type of surfer you are and the surfer you can be.”
As you take your next step to buying your first wakesurfboard, we would definitely recommend developing a relationship with a local shaper like one of these guys. Staying local and supporting local has always been a Texas sized trend, from music artists like Willie Nelson to local homebrews like Shiner Bock and Titos. Although these shapers will never be as big as Willie Nelson that is exactly the benefit you will receive through your first shape- small and personable.
Chevy’s new Z71 concept truck was just introduced at the SEMA trade show in Las Vegas. In collaboration with surf brand, Hurley, the new Chevy Z71 is one of the first surf specific mid-sized pickups. Features include a snorkel that allows the truck to be submerged in water, which is great for your adventure surfing needs as well as watersport towing needs- jet ski or boat.
According to media.chevrolet.com: “This ultimate wave wanderer, which also serves as a mobile beach command center, is decked out with a custom surfboard rack, storage systems and even water-resistant seat covers made from advanced ventiprene, a breathable material similar to the neoprene used in surfing wetsuits.” The concept according to Ryan Hurley was about functionality, designing a truck for John John Florence to use that would make sense for surfers.
Even better yet is a waterproof bracelet can be used to unlock the car. Wear your bracelet while you surf or wakesurf and then hold it up to the tailgate to unlock. Very similar to the new Malibu Boats Surf Watch used while wakesurfing to shape your perfect wave.
Surf mobile?! Awesome, but what about a more practical truck for the inland surfer and standup paddle board enthusiast? I guess we will have to wait and see …
DFW Surf introduces Bike2Yoga to its SUP Yoga classes at Hidden Cove Park and Marina. “Hidden Cove Park is a great place to host a SUP Yoga class because of its protection from the wind and also an even better place to bike. It is full of secret beaches and biking trails and several of our club members are very much into biking,” says instructor Jenn Bodnar.
The idea behind Bike2Yoga is to keep yoga fresh and exciting. SUP Yoga is meant to be a peaceful and beautiful activity in a quiet and remote setting. Yoga group meets at DFW Surf and then groups either all bike together or split up into two where half the group bikes and half the group paddles and then following the sup yoga class the groups swap and head back to starting point. “It’s also a great way to get the heart rate up and very effective when we host classes in cooler outdoor months in the spring and fall” says Jenn.
From Olympic canoeing to dragon boating, DUC Delite (Dallas United Crew) coach, Rich Stewart, has just added a new competitive watersport to his list of accomplishments- standup paddle board racing. We are stoked to have Rich aboard the DFW Surf crew and last weekend he took first place in his first 5K SUP race in Fort Worth.
Q: So Rich, how did your watersports career begin and what does the future hold?
“I began paddling at the age of 13 on a middle school racing team for canoeing and kayaking In Gainesville, GA, where the paddling and rowing events for the 1996 Olympics were held. I competed in my first sprint canoe national championships in 2002 (in the 13-14 year old category) winning several national championships in the 2 man canoe and eventually qualifying for the Junior World Championships in 2005 placing 17th overall. In 2008 I placed 5th in the Olympic trials. My last sprint canoe victory was the 2011 national championships in the 2 man canoe.
During this time, I also competed in dragon boating. I represented the United States in the 2010-2014 ICF world championships. I was a 1x bronze medalist in 2010 and 2x in 2012. After moving away from my hometown to Atlanta, I got the opportunity to compete in wildwater canoeing, placing 4th in the 2013 national championships.
I started coaching canoeing/kayaking and dragon boat in 2005. I’m a USA Canoe/Kayak certified high performance coach and have coached athletes at all levels, from those on corporate dragon boat teams to canoers and dragon boaters on the national team. I moved to Dallas in 2013 and promptly got involved in the paddling community. I currently coach and paddle with the DUC Delite dragon boat team, who placed fourth in 2015 at the dragon boat national championships and had two paddlers compete in the world championships this year in Moscow. After meeting Tyler and DFW Surf earlier this year, I started paddling SUP. I competed in my first race this year taking first place in 5K and am looking forward to getting more experience racing in this up and coming paddle sport!”
The future of wakesurfing? One of the world’s biggest sports- surfing- is now the biggest towable watersport in the world- wakesurfing. And now surfing is literally available in the palm of your hands, or on a watch like Malibu’s new Surf Watch. As if you thought the sport of wakesurfing could not get any sweeter, surfers can now adjust the wave length and height on the fly and transfer from frontside to backside surfing in 3 seconds.
Come experience the wave for yourself this Sunday thanks to Waterski America, Axis and Malibu Boats. This Sunday starting at 1 pm you can hop in a boat and surf with others, or if it is your first time to surf their are spots available where you can learn how to surf. More info about the event on the Waterski America Facebook page. Sign up on 1 of 6 time spots on 6 different Malibu and Axis boat models HERE.
And stay tuned for the 7th annual DFW Surf Open wakesurfing contest- HERE.
1. Is the water cold? This might be the #1 asked question.
Answer: Well that depends on how you define “cold.” In our opinion, cold water is when you have to wear a wetsuit or booties and what is great about Texas is how warm it is year round and how cool and refreshing the water is between the months of April and July. A lot of times the same people who ask how cold the water is in June will also complain about how hot it is in July.
2. Are there alligators?
Answer: Yes, but very rarely and in remote spots of the lake, but in general, the odds of running into an alligator are very slim. They are just as scared of us as we are of them. It is interesting to note that our most popular blog post of all time is “Are there Alligators in North Texas?”
3. How deep is it?
Answer: At max depths Grapevine and Lewisville Lake average around 50-80 feet. Closer to shore the depth is anywhere from 2-20 feet. Average SUP fins are 8 inches in height, so if you fins touches bottom then you know that it’s time to hop off your board.
4. What do I wear? And what about shoes or slippers?
Answer: Swimsuit attire, hat and sunscreen and yes even a speedo if you’d like. In our Beginner Paddle Classes you will learn how to get back on your board when you fall and in our yoga classes their is a good chance you will fall in while attempting a headstand for your first time. 1 out of 30 people lose their sunglasses, which is why we sell and demo Bomber Floating Sunglasses to wear with some sunscreen and a hat. SUP is a barefoot activity because, just like surfing, you get more grip from the soles of your feet. You can opt to wear a thin material slipper or watershoe- these are great for adventure paddles in backwoods and creeks and 3mm booties are ideal for cold water conditions.
5. Can I paddle with my dog?
Answer: Yep, absolutely. A man and his best friend can enjoy the feeling of walking on water together. Your dog needs to wear a life jacket just like his or her owner. The bigger the dog, the bigger the board you need for the both of you at once. Kayaking is always a great option too.
6. If I have never paddleboarded before is it okay to rent a board?
Answer: Nope. Safety and confidence is our #1 objective on the water besides having fun. While paddleboarding is easy to do, it is difficult without knowing what and how to do it. All first time paddlers (first time ever, does not have to be at DFW Surf) are required to either hop in a class or receive private instruction from one of our certified and professional coaches.
7. Are you open? What are your hours? Where are you located?
Answer: We are open year round by reservation, on any day, at any time. Check out our new website from your mobile phone for our weekly business hours depending on the time of year. We are open weekends in May and September and 4 days a week in the summer, June 1- Sept 1. We have 3 lakeside locations to get on board.
8. What are the requirements to becoming a member of the DFW Surf Club?
Answer: Check out more info and membership pre-requisites on our website- https://dfwsurf.com/dfwsurfclub/. We require that you take a class and coaches approval. Once you become a member you need to take another class or private wakesurfing lesson to be able to surf in one of our weekly meetups.
“It’s all about you and the moment,” says Konae Nowell, one of Texas Top Paddlers and DFW Surf PaddleFit certified coach. Entering her fourth season as a competitive paddler, Konae, age 48, dominated the opening weekend of the Texas Paddle Racing scene with a 2nd place finish at the WPA Cinco de Mayo Pro/Am in Corpus Christie and a 1st place finish at Beating the Bayou 10K in Houston. Two races in the same weekend?! Yep, that’s how popular the competitive paddle racing scene is becoming all over the world and right here in Texas. As an individual sport, standup paddle boarding can be a battle against other competitors, for Konae, it has always been about doing the best that you can as an individual. Regardless of the result, the greater gratitude is self-accomplishment stemming from hard work, dedication and mental and spiritual strength.
On this special Mother’s Day weekend Konae will remember being with her daughter Karis above all. Together they raced and together they finished. Konae says that “the feeling of being there at the award ceremony next to my daughter was the highlight of my weekend.” In the race of life there is nothing as important as family and friends.
Watch the new Quickblade “Train Hard. Go Fast. Have Fun” video. Life is about the feeling of giving 100% in all aspects of what you do. “It’s not about winning. It’s about you, your relationship to yourself, your family and your friends.”
https://vimeo.com/165097583
“SUP is the sport of the future for all ages. It is here to stay” says Coach Konae who plans to lead a new and exciting fitness women’s program called Women’s Wednesdays. Stay tuned Frisco and Plano ladies of North Texas. Women’s Wednesdays is all about living in the moment and being active and fit. The first class is free starting June 1.
New for 2016- DFW Surf partners with DORBA and offers exclusive discounts to DORBA members who want to get out on the lake, relax and try something new. “Over the years we have found that a lot of our customers are also avid bikers and several of our club members are within the DORBA organization. People who like to bike also like to get out on the water and try standup paddleboarding or wakesurfing. We are excited to team up with DORBA and new for 2016 we will also be offering bike rentals at our Frisco location at Hidden Cove Park and Marina who has plans to build miles of extensive biking trails on the shores of Lake Lewisville,” says Tyler Marshall founder of DFW Surf.
About DORBA: The Dallas Off Road Bicycle Association (DORBA) is one of the largest mountain biking organizations in the country with over 1,000 members. Since 1988, its primary mission has been providing access to great local trails. The organization is 100% volunteer and all membership dues and donations are used for the tools and infrastructure needed to build and maintain trails. We work with local municipalities and private landowners to ensure ongoing access to top quality trails for mountain bikers of all experience levels to enjoy. We also maintain a free web site (dorba.org) which provides status and useful information on all trails in North Texas. Whether you are an experienced rider or someone who is just starting out, we hope the trails and info provided by DORBA help you to have an awesome riding experience!
“DORBA is proud to welcome DFW Surf as our newest corporate sponsor! DORBA members are outdoor enthusiasts who spend over $1 million per year on riding and other outdoor activities. DFW Surf is a natural fit for our members and we are thrilled they are offering a 15% discount on activities/rentals to our members,” says DORBA marketing director Tim Carroll.
Life is all about being active and being outdoors and both organizations continue to maintain an active role not only within the sports they love, through trail building or waterway cleanups, but also in the communities and relationships that are fostered. Paddleboarding, surfing, or biking, whatever your activity may be . . . Be Safe and Have Fun!
A big fan favorite of DORBA bikers is the RINSEKIT– portable pressurized washing system, great for use to rinse off your dirty bike. Available at a DFW Surf location near you. Use Promo code DORBA and save 15%
Coach Toddi J, pro athlete and shaper, in the house this weekend and able to introduce Paul, a local surfer from Australia (now living in Euless), how to wakesurf for the first time. Paul, landlocked and missing some much needed swells, discovered DFW Surf via youtube and was curious to see what “wakesurfing” was all about. Thanks to some great coaching tips Paul was able to catch the longest wave of his life.
In light of Paul and several other surfers, originating from a surfing background, here are some important tips for surfers (and wakeboarders) who are trying wakesurfing for their first time:
Wakesurfing Starts with a Rope
At the DFW Surf School our most important focus for beginners is learning how to “get up” on their first time out. Many surfers who are not used to wakeboarding/waterskiing and other towable sports find it difficult to “get up.” Some surfers overlook the importance of step # 1 and are so focused on the surfing side of wakesurfing that they struggle to get up. Another common first-timer surfing mistake is to try to get up starting on your stomach just like you would in the ocean. Education and practice is key here, this is where those who do have a wakeboarding background excel because they know how to use the rope to their advantage and lean away from the whitewash and into the flats. After education, practice pulls and a couple misfalls, you are finally up and ready to surf. Step # 2- continue to use the rope for feet adjustment and balance. A common surfer mistake is to immediately want to dive into surfing and pumping like an ocean wave. Take your time, relax, get used to the wave and listen to your coach.
Surfboards are not Ideal for Wakesurfing :
Even pro surfer, Josh Kerr, had to trade in his normal ocean shortboard for a custom one designed for the boat. The main difference – Buoyancy. Salt water is a lot more buoyant than freshwater, which is why wakesurf boards are designed to be thicker and they also feature a wider tail. Take your typical ocean shortboard, thin, tri-fin thruster setup, skinny tail and not much rocker. After trying out their surfboards, we then hand them a hand shaped wake surfboard and boom- What a difference the right equipment makes! Some Longboards, on the other hand, are great behind the boat because they are already very buoyant. The only difficulty here is getting up- if the board is too thick then you can’t get up with your feat the normal way, you will have to start on your stomach or knees. We recommend picking up a 8 or 9 foot Donald Takayama; these boards are narrow, easy to get up with, and fast.
Over the years it has been interesting to see which first-time surfers have excelled in wakesurfing. We have found that Florida surfers were able to wakesurf the best because they are used to smaller waves and an emphasis on the front foot for speed. Wakesurfing, if you are using a short performance board, is all about the front foot (+ body and hip positioning). Similarly, wakeboarders transitioning into the sport have had difficulties. I myself came from a wakeboarding background and was so used to leaning back and placing more weight on my back foot that wakesurfing was difficult. Pioneering the sport in TX, there was no one teaching lessons or giving classes so I had to teach myself. I had to let go of my ego and put the small performance board on hold. After using a bigger board I was able to become more comfortable and finally able to understand the concept of speed and how speed could be generated on and off the power zone of the wave.
By Toddi J + TMarsh
It is Tuesday, March 8th, also known as International Women’s Day where we celebrate the cultural, economic and political achievement of women throughout the world. At DFW Surf we love our women! Women make up nearly 65% of the active watersports paddleboarding and wakesurfing community in Texas and beyond. Without your joy, excitement, commitment and determination we would not be where we are today. Lets look back at some of our favorite women’s moments over the years:
1. The Texas Paddle Racing Scene is new and exciting and Team DFW Surf women are leading the way in the competitive scene. Andra Dunn and Konae Nowell are 2 of Texas Top Paddlers.
2. SUP Yoga- “Girls Only” Event at Life Time Fitness in Colleyville. The first ever class for young active yoga and gymnastic students lead by Instructor Jenn Bodnar.
3. Flower Mound Women’s Group Meetup on Lake Grapevine- throwback to 2012 for a weekly social paddle with who’s who active moms of Flower Mound.
4. Sheyenne’s smile on her face in: “My First Wakesurfing Experience“
5. Women’s Wednesdays- DFW Surf Club members meetup and go surf every Wednesday on Lake Lewisville. Stay tuned for Women’s Wednesdays fitness paddle meetups every Wednesday morning at DFW Surf (Frisco) starting May 1.
6. DFW Surf Team Rider Ashley Kidd- 2X World Champ! Check out her winning run HERE.
7. Paddle for a Purpose Fundraiser 2015. A couple guys and nearly 70 strong women gathered in September of 2015 to help raise nearly $80,000 for cancer survivors via the Roughwater Foundation.
8. Claire Morgan- 2015 Surf School Athlete of the Year on top of the podium at USA Nationals in her first competitive year of wakesurfing.
9. After learning how to paddle from the pros at DFW Surf, Tyler Texas local Debbie Cunningham and family start up a paddleboard company on Lake Tyler called Turtle Island SUP.
10. The Women of the DFW Surf Club helped organize and decorate “Santa’s Surfing Sleigh” at Grapevine’s Parade of Lights. Check out the video:
This is the most important part of your whole SUP experience! If your paddle is too tall, or too short you will be working harder than necessary. This can even causing shoulder and back injuries. If you buy a solid shaft paddle (non adjustable) always cut it taller at first. You can cut it shorter if necessary, but you can’t make it taller! There’s a few guides and charts on the inter-webs you can reference. Your best bet Is your local sup specific shop (not a sporting goods store) or find a PaddleFit certified instructor.
The materials, size, and design will dictate how much your paddle will weigh. How heavy your paddle is will effect how you perform. A lighter paddle will put less strain on your body allowing you to get more STROKES PER MINUTE, keep proper form avoiding injury, and being more efficient.
There are many different styles of paddleboarding; racing, surf, white water, AND SUP POLO??? There’s all kinds of “activity” specific paddles out in the market: you name it someone makes it. So that being said, what is practical for you? Be smart do your research and consult your local sup shop.
In Racing: You’ll want a lighter paddle allowing for less swing weight. Resulting in a higher stroke rate and less fatigue.
Surf: You’ll want a small flat blade with a shorter shaft allowing you to place your blade in the face of the wave with more ease.
Whitewater: Weight mostly goes out the window as you are looking for durability to with stand the blows it will take from rocks and other hard objects in the shallow waters.
Flat Water/Recreational: A longer shaft, medium size blade will accommodate easy cruising and very little strain on the body.
SUP POLO?: Some of you are wondering what this even is… Just watch the video below and you can come to your own conclusion on what paddle will be best for it.
Bigger isn’t always better. Blade size is measured in surface area (sq/in or sq/cm ) and just like the height of your paddle and your pants there is a size for you . The inter-webs has charts and recommendations for you. Don’t just listen to your buddy who says you need a 120 sq/in blade, it might not be best for YOU. A bigger blade is heavier and harder to recover at the end of your stroke, therefore less efficient. You want a blade that grabs just enough water to pull you and your board forward. No one cares how big it is, its how you use it!
Rule of thumb: Typically your paddle blade is going to follow your body type.
What your paddle could be made of: plastic, carbon, fiberglass, aluminum, kevlar, or even (the same thing we have been using for 100’s of years….) Wood. Each of these have attributes that match your needs, and your budget. That being said be cautious of fakes such as a carbon paddle for cheap that are actually fiberglass inside and a very thin carbon finish on the outside. Looks good but heavy and weak. Also, there’s the common fiberglass painted black to look like carbon. Asked questions to make sure if you are wanting to purchase a Carbon paddle, you are getting a true carbon paddle.
If style is what you’re going for, wood is a great option. Just know good care and maintenance is necessary.
Click HERE for more info about paddles and a convenient sizing chart
By Coach Cody
When you come to DFW Surf to experience paddling for the first time, we make sure it is just that; a great experience. Our own PaddleFit Certified Coach Dingo will take on any challenge to ensure that you get on board and get on your feet. Though safety is our number one prerogative, the Dingo has found a way to incorporate fun into every aspect of his lessons. Our Paddle level 1 classes range from small groups to large groups, and Dingo leaves no one behind. It is half an hour or more of hands on instruction followed by another half hour to 45 minutes of free paddling. With all of the high rainfall the lake has seen this year Hidden Cove Marina is full of adventure and new places to explore. Sunken ships, flooded cabins and picnic areas, and washed away camping spots that Coach Dingo will show you on your tour. If he thinks you’ve advanced quickly enough, he may even take you paddling through some tree tops! Come get on board and see what all the hype is about. Coach Dingo is waiting!!
Paddleboarding Classes with Coach Dingo:
Paddle Level 1: Saturdays and Sundays at 4 pm
SUP Glow Tours: Every Saturday starting at 8:30 pm
Bought a new board from DFW Surf this year? Grab your board and head over to DFW Surf Adventures in Frisco!
Besides the fact that the water is very cold this time of year and you probably do not want to fall in on purpose, there are so many reasons why the offseason months on North Texas lakes are a great time to paddle.
1. The Lake is Yours!– Many of us love to get away from the fast paced city world and out to the lake where “lake-time” is our time. The escape for some is to find peace away from the noise of everyday life, somewhere outside, to a place under the sun, to a quiet and relaxing spot away from the crowds. This is offseason paddleboarding on North Texas lakes, where, even on the weekends, lake life is “dead.” Looking to find some peace and quiet on the lake? Statistcally, 90% of lake life activities and lake goers ends after Labor Day. No noise, no boats, no traffic. Just you, your paddle mates and lake time.
2. Sunny and Warmer Days are More Meaningful– Come winter months, December through April, you will still find several days out of the month in the 60s and 70s, sometimes even up to 80. And on these rare and warmer days IT’S ON! You have been waiting all week, you have been keeping a close eye on the weather forecast and here come’s the sun! This is more
3. Stay in Shape and Paddle-Fit– Athlete’s who are really into their sports know how difficult it is to get back into shape after being inactive. The secret for runners, bikers and anyone who wants to stay “fit” over the age of 30 is to remain active year round. The winter months are a great time to let your body recover, the key is to remain somewhat active and eat well.
In less than a year’s time, Claire Morgan, former equestrian national champ, is now one of the top Amateur wake surfers. What an amazing first season of results: 3rd place at Lake ANNA, 3rd place at 10k Lakes in Minnesota, 3rd place at U.S open, 3rd place AWC Fall qualifier and 2nd place at US Nationals for the amateur women’s surf division. Overall, Claire finished 6th in the world for CWSA (Competitive Wake Surfing Association).
“It’s been an honor to be a part of Claire’s success this year. She is a very hard working and dedicated athlete who has found a new passion- on the water” –Tyler Marshall
“The first time I saw Claire surfing I remember thinking “there is a young woman who is just out there to have fun.” Not just trying to win comps or “get sponsored” she just truly loves surfing, the culture,and being apart of the WakeSurf community. As her shaper/surf coach I couldn’t be more proud and stoked on Claire, she a rad little chick!” –Todd Johnson
I truly hope this story touches your soul and inspires you to find your happiness in life. you only get one chance on this earth – for most of us, it takes changing your mind set and taking a huge leap of faith to make the most of it.
The summer of 2015 forever changed my life in the most positive and inspiring way. For as long as I can remember, I had this nagging, unsettling feeling that my life was unfulfilled – like I was meant for something more and that I didn’t really fit in anywhere or with anyone. This feeling followed me through relationships, jobs, life achievements, friends, you name it.
I’ll spare the details of my past and just say that I didn’t have the easiest first 29 years of my life. Not to say it was all bad, but I learned to be strong and self-sufficient, to be at peace with being alone and learned to understand that I won’t always receive the love I give. I was going through a particularly rough time in my life during that life changing summer. I suddenly found all my life plans (marriage, kids, white picket fence, etc.) crashing and burning and I once again was lost.
Trying to find my place again, I decided to try new things and start focusing on me again. And then on a whim I bought a Groupon for a paddle boarding class at DFW Surf in Hidden Cove, Frisco. Little did I know that day on August 15, 2015 would forever change my life. Paddle boarding was fun, but I was hung over and honestly still a little drunk from a girl’s night out before and quickly crashed and burned. But I met an amazing person – yep, you guessed it…Justin Hammond, who introduced me to the world of wake surfing.
At first I was scared – I remember asking “am I going to die”? Which I laugh at now because it’s one of the safest and most fun sports you can participate in. Being a total newbie, I didn’t even know what it was. Justin Hammond and Todd Johnson took me out on the boat to watch a coaching session with Claire Morgan. I was mesmerized and enthralled with her talent and how much joy riding those waves brought her. After that, I couldn’t wait to get my chance to get on a board.
My big day came a few weeks after that. I met up with the crew at DFW Surf 121 and was completely anxious and a little scared. I have severe anxiety and with 5 back surgeries under my belt my stomach was in a knot. But me being me, I’ve never backed down from a challenge. I watched the stellar Hannah Stone bust out an amazing set, watched her body, her feet her arms, her determination and most of all, her smile. I suddenly felt all my anxiety and fear wash away.
With my amazing surf dad Jeffery Stearns, coaching me from the back of the boat I got up and surfed on my first try with NO ROPE! I was so happy and so proud! The enthusiasm, hugs and high fives from everyone on the boat made my heart swell with gratitude and pride! Over the next few months I fell deeply in love with the sport and I surf every opportunity I get. I’ve progressed quickly and I hope to take my surfing to a whole new level over the next year. But whatever may come of this, there are a few things I want people want to know about the sport, the people I’ve met and about DFW Surf.
· When I surf, my anxiety, fear, self-consciousness, competitiveness and all the negativity in my world disappear. A wave of joy, confidence and peace washes over me. It’s a peace I have never had in my life. After a surf session, everything in the world seems right.
· I have met the most amazing group of people. They are the most selfless, kind, compassionate, encouraging, joyful and genuine people I have ever had the pleasure to call friends. From always inviting me on their boats to surf, to coaching me and helping me get better, to cheering me on when I’ve had a bad run, to calling me when I’m sad or sick and asking how they can help. For the first time, I feel like I have a family of friends. There is no judgment with this group of people, only love.
· DFW Surf has provided me with amazing opportunities and they have the best coaches, employees and club members. They have the passion and patience that make them a truly unique group. I talk to countless members who found DFW Surf because they too were going through a rough period in their life. At DFW Surf, we aren’t just building a business, we’re building a family. To be honest…most of us found our significant others by taking paddleboard lessons. If you’ve never checked them out, please do. It’s obviously the off season, but summer will be here before you know it. (This is totally unauthorized by the way…no one knows I’m writing this but I hope my friends over at DFW Surf enjoy it).
· Surfing has taught me what’s truly important in life. It’s the people we meet, the memories we make and the experiences we have. Everyone’s situation is different and everyone’s passion and priorities are different, but for me surfing has brought a new meaning to my life. I have a new purpose and I no longer worry about the small stuff. I have found my center, my purpose and my place.
As I approach 30 and plan my first trip to go ocean surfing, I can’t help but look back on how different I am than I was 6 months ago, a year ago, and 5 years ago. For all the people out there who are looking for a new challenge, a new group of friends, a new love or even a new perspective on life – I encourage you with all my heart and soul to give wake surfing a try. Not just here in DFW, but anywhere! It has truly changed my life and shown me that there is a place in this world for everyone and it’s never too late and you’re never too old to find it. If you ever want to give wake surfing a try, please let me know. It’s my mission in life to share my new passion with everyone.
I want to finish by thanking everyone who has been a friend, a coach, a shoulder to cry on, an encouraging influence, but most of all…a member of my surf family. I sincerely apologize if I forget someone, please know that I LOVE all of you and I am eternally grateful for this sport. -Jakie
As a sport in Texas, stand up paddle boarding started with the very first race called the “SUP Jam,” which took place in Austin in 2010. In 2011 the SUP Jam invited professional paddler, EJ Johnson, who came into town and completely dominated the field in the Elite 6 mile- Texas had some catching up to do. Since then Texas has been flooded by events from Dallas to Galveston and races like the SUP Cup and Waterman’s Paddle for Humanity. In 2014 approximately 120,000 Texans got on a paddleboard at least once and out of this large number of people a small percentage of paddlers, approximately 500 (less than 1%), competed in at least one paddleboard race. Out of the 1%ers is a core, elite group of paddlers who continue to grow the sport and push their abilities as athletes in the local racing scene and beyond. These are some of your Texas’ Top Paddlers.
Texas Top Men’s Paddlers:
Joe Cerdas– Over the past three years Joe has been Texas top SUP athlete and leading contender to put Texas on the map in the professional paddle racing scene. Galveston Island local and hometown life guard, Joe is also a new KM Board team rider, SUP Gladiator Team Captain and competitor for the Costa Rican National Team at this year’s ISA World Championships. Noteable races include a 36th finish at the Battle of Paddle Elite race in 2014. He is the 2015 Texas Paddle Racing Series Champ (TPRS). Today he is building up the next biggest team in Texas paddle racing via his local company called- Ocean Tribe.
Tyler Marshall– Reigning WPA Champ for Region 12, DFW Surf founder, Boarders Magazine editor and Yolo Board team rider, Tyler has been one of the leading pioneers for paddleboarding throughout Texas since day one. Like Joe, Tyler has had the opportunity to compete with the “big boys” and notable race finishes include two second place finishes in class at two of the biggest races in the nation- Lake Tahoe Race the Lake and Hano Hano Huki in San Diego and a 4th place finish at last year’s 2014 WPA Championships in Florida.
Nate Richard– Reigning WPA Champ for 14 foot board class and a SUP Gladiator team rider, Nate is passionate about taking racing to the next level. Noteable races include 1st place at the 2014 SUP Cup and 5th overall at the Big River Regional. He lives and trains on Lake Grapevine in North Texas where he founded a paddle fitness company called Lake Set Fitness.
Peter Ching– Year after year Peter is in attendance of at least 75% of Texas races. A very dominant paddler, #1 in Texas for ages 40+ and still able to edge out his younger competitors (2nd overall at this year’s Bambu Bash). Peter rocks a very speedy 25 inch wide Infinity race board and he lives and trains on Lake Austin. Just behind Peter in class is Hawaiian native, team DFW Surf athlete, Don Anderson, an original Texas competitor and several 1st place finishes throughout the years.
Other big names on the mens side include Galveston local, Travis Dhonau, Ben Baecker of Waterside Sports, Chris Tietz from Austin, Cody Forgy from Grapevine, Joe Joe Cunningham of Turtle Island SUP and former competitive paddlers who attend a race from time to time- Buck Ashcraft (1st place at SUP Jam 2008) and Jared Matthews (2nd place at Galveston Island Paddle 2013). Other pioneer paddlers and top unlimited class competitors include Casey Gotcher with SUP Gladiator and Ryan “Slim” Stevens of Austin Paddle Sports. Lee Harle, founder of the SUP Cup is another notable athlete/pioneer from Austin/Bastrop area and Travis Daoust a strong paddler from Fort Worth.
Joe Cerdas (left) and Tyler Marshall (right), 1st and 2nd, at the 2012 Waterman’s Paddle for Humanity in Austin
At the 2014 Lone Star Paddle Fest, local paddler competes with his dog on board
Texas Top Women’s Paddlers:
Hannah Elferink– We got a chance to ask Texas’ Top Female Paddler, Hannah Elferink, about her biggest accomplishments in the SUP Racing scene. “My biggest race accomplishments over the last few years would be competing in BOP for the first time, putting me totally out of my element. It was the first time I had ever paddled out in swell that was 8ft+. It was an amazing accomplishment to have not only finished, but to compete against some of the best female paddlers in the world. I ended up ranking 29th over all of that race. The second race that really challenged me was the Island paddle race this year in Galveston. I had competed in various paddle events with Galveston Island Beach Patrol’s beach fest, just a few minutes before the SUP race started. My body was fatigued, and the conditions were not in my favor. It was a huge accomplishment to have completed all of those events that day, and some how come out on top.”
Andra Dunn– In only her second year in the SUP racing scene Andra has been determined and dominant, leading the way in the 14 foot women’s division by a mile. She is the 2015 TPRS Champ, also notable for taking second at this year’s Big River Regional.
Linda Mccoy– Founder of CenTex SUP, a meetup for paddlers in the Austin area, Linda has continued to push the sport in the right direction year after year. This year she was awarded the REI Community Involvement Award from Keep Austin Beautiful and Female Volunteer of the Year Award for the State of Texas for Keep Texas Beautiful for her outstanding work to keep Texas lakes clean and eco friendly through monthly organized trash clean ups. Linda is also one of the top SUP racers and seems to have been at every single race over the past four years, most notable this year for winning the TPRS (Texas Paddle Racing Series) Women’s 14 Foot 5K.
Konae Nowell– Like Peter Ching, Konae has been the most dominant paddler for 40+ and consistently # 2 or #3 overall, only 2 minutes behind Hannah in this years Colorado River Ramble 10K. A daily paddler part of the DFW Surf Club in North Texas, Konae is truly blessed to have found paddleboarding. The first moment she stepped on a racing style board she got hooked and has paddled nearly every day since. She has had the opportunity to paddle with industry noteable coaches/athletes like Quickblade’s Jim Terrell and World Champ Candice Appleby to improve her knowledge and enhance her skills.
Other women’s noteables include Galveston’s Ellie Cherrihomes, Jenell Vollmer from Austin (Austin Paddleboarder Volunteer of the Year- 2013, 1st places in Corpus SUP Classic, Island Paddle, Rockport’s Oceanfest, Colorado River Ramble and more) and Juliet Urushima, a passionate paddler and pioneer from North Texas and founder of a local company on Lake Lewisville called “The SUP Shack” and other North Texas competitors like Kristen McGregory and Heidi Schewennesen.
Hannah Elferink jumping over an obstacle at the 2015 Bastrop SUP Cup near Austin
Centex SUP Pioneer Linda Mccoy takes 1st in class for the TPRS- Texas Paddle Racing Series- 2015
What a year for DFW Surf Club with over 50 new members who love to be on the water. We have new members from all over the metroplex who, on the average, make it out to one of our lakeside locations at least once a week. Trying something new is what life is all about and that is just what we did over the weekend as we headed south for our annual camping trip. In the morning we met just west of Waco on the beautiful Brazos River; here we started our paddle journey to the famous white cliffs of Lover’s Leap. From there we ventured down the river where we finished our journey for lunch at Manny’s on the lake. Round 2 of the trip we hopped on the infamous 52 Foot Sea Ray thanks to Captain Michael Wilson and Waco River Charters.
