Parker Payne and Ashley Kidd on top of the World!

September 28, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

2 Dominant performances from 2 of your favorite wake surfing athletes. Congratulations to Parker Payne and Ashley Kidd for an exciting 2015 season and a great finish on top of the podium at the main event- the 2015 World Wake Surfing Championship in Parker, Arizona.

Ashley remains undefeated for the 2015 season and continues to impress everyone with her true surf style aggression and big reverse airs. She is now the Queen of Wake and the 2-time defending World Champ. Check out her unstoppable run in the Finals:

Parker Payne is the man! Within 3 years time Parker has gone from Amateur World Champ to #2 National Champ and now your # 2 reigning World Champ and not even 16 years of age. He is a wake surfing phenom, so consistent with his big tricks and put together one of the best world championship men’s surf runs we have ever seen.

3 Reasons to Surf the Cove this Weekend

September 16, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

3 Reasons Why You Should Surf the Cove this Weekend:

A chance to surf behind the World Wake Surfing Championship towboat, the Centurion FS44, thanks to Freedom Powersports Lewisville. For years, Centurion boats has dedicated itself towards the sport of wake surfing, from its surf specific hull designs to its RamFill (fastest filling ballast) technology. It’s your lucky day when you get to experience a ride on one of these surfing machines. Come out this Saturday and check out the full line of Centurion boats, or sign up and experience it for yourself.
Most Creative Surfer- This is a family friendly competition for all types of wake surfers. It is not all about the competition, for most, it is about how much fun on the lake you are having. New for 2015- we have added a “Most Creative Surfer” Award. Surfers will compete, surf, be creative, wear a costume, do a handstand, surf with their dog, you name it.
Free paddleboarding for all competitors thanks to DFW Surf Adventures. DFW Surf, host of the 6th annual end of season wake surfing competition, is your North Texas headquarters for wake surfing and paddleboarding. Get out to the lake, get on board and have some fun. Paddleboards available for rentals and free for competitors.

See you on Saturday! More info and REGISTRATION HERE

“My First Wake Surfing Experience”

September 3, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

“How many times have I looked at a magazine article with some svelte girl on a surfboard riding a turquoise wave thinking geez would that not be cool. Weeks turn into years and I’d see that image here and again and go yeah I should do that when I lose some weight or get a tan or have some friends with a boat….One day. Well guess what!? At nearly 40, one day is never coming if I don’t make it happen. I put the word out to some of my more “outdoorsy-lovin” girlfriends and set up a wake surf lesson. Pioneer Tyler Marshall at DFW Surf took us out on Lake Grapevine to show us the ropes. My girlfriends and I had some butterflies about what we were getting into, but Tyler’s laid back style put us at ease quickly. First things first, learn to stand up. Secondly, find the sweet spot. Third, relish in the “fails” cause there is an award for that too! Of course we ate it quite a few times, and at one point I thought I swallowed half of Lake Grapevine through my nose. But then there’s a moment, a moment when it clicks and you know you just figured something out. All of a sudden, you see the sun as your stage lights, the wave as your dance floor, and realize the tunes from the boat just gave you the beat. Out on the water, I found a whole world you can’t see from Uptown. I read a book recently about mindset where many people don’t try new or different things because they don’t want to fail. Their ego is too sensitive and believe failing at something defines them versus realizing it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself and learn something new. My girlfriends and I took the DFW Surf challenge and we’re glad we did. We put some some cool points in the bank to boot.” -Sheyenne Sullivan

Paddle For a Purpose – September 20th, 2015

September 3, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

Jump on Board with the upcoming event for a great cause! Register Here

Why: To support cancer survivors, their families, caretakers through the Roughwater Foundation. ~ PFP is a 100% volunteer and local community event. Thus, all proceeds remain in the community and serve those in need!

When: Sunday, September 20^th 8:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m.

Where: DFW Surf Shop at Pier 121. 1481 East Hill Park Rd Lewisville, TX 75056

What: 5 K ( 3.3 mile) SUP fun ride!!! No race, just a group team effort to finish together for the cause

Registration: With event registration you will receive a K3 Waterproof Dry Bag – Team K3 ($34.95 retail)-Inside swag includes Orange Theory Free Pass, The Barr Code Free Pass, Aloe UP SPF Lip Balm, 25% discount Fresh Faces spa discount card & facial treatment sample, Kind Bar product(s), Vaseline Moisturizer Spray, Vooray sunglasses and more!

The best part… paddle registration fee is only $35.00 and is tax deductible!

**Top fundraisers: (2 top fundraisers) win 2 night stay from Hilton Anatole downtown, K3 Excursion Travel Bags, Waterproof Speakers & more….. Orange Theory $350 value program card will go to Top Fundraiser as well.

Prizes will also be handed out for top event photos, best ride outfit and more…….all tax deductible makes it even sweeter!

Sponsors include Orange Theory Fitness, DFW Surf, Athleta, K3, Kind Bar, Vooray, Aloe Up, Hilton Hotels, Vaseline, The Barr Code and more.

Join the fun and Paddle for a Purpose!

Ashley Kidd is on Fire!

August 25, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

Ashley has remained undefeated for nearly two years and this year she has continued to push the limits of competitive wake surfing. So far this year all first place finishes: AZ Wake Surf Open, Ladies First ATX, Supreme Wake Surf Championship and now she has claimed the title- 2015 USA National Champ. She is the first girl ever to land a surf style “big spin” – a shuv body varial 360. A big month for Ashley who, on Saturday in Fort Worth, Texas, took first place at the US Open of Wake Surfing hosted by Tige Boats. Two years in a row Ashley has dominated this event and North Texas where she represents DFW Surf. Congrats also to Team Riders Parker Payne (3rd in surf and skim) and Perry Morrison (1st in Juniors).

Ashley was featured on this month’s cover of Boarders Magazine. Ashley-Kidd-Boarders-MagazineHere she is boosting a huge air on her home turf- Lake Austin, TX, near the 360 bridge. Incredible surf style and some of the biggest airs in the industry (including mens), Lake Austin is where Ashley started and blossomed her career as a professional wake surfer. Growing up Ashley got into wake surfing under the influence of her brother in Corpus Christie. It all started in 2009 and then she started competing in 2010 and one of her first contests was in Austin at Barrel Boss hosted by Sail and Ski. Check out Ashley in the Austin, TX issue- “The Roots of Inland Surf Sports” along with other athletes and pioneers of wake surf and stand up paddle in Central Texas along with Barrel Boss and Tyler’s Dam that Cancer.

DFW Surf Creates Paddleboarding Program for Scout Troops

August 16, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

August 15th, 2015 is a historical day for the sport of stand up paddle boarding, DFW Surf and Girl Scout troops around North Texas. Girl Scouts from around the area were excited to get the chance to not only learn how to paddle board, but to ultimately receive a paddle board badge. “This is a great opportunity for Girl Scouts to get involved in the sport and now with a badge there is more incentive to learn something new” says DFW Surf’s Danny Braught.

North Texas Girl Scout groups gathered at DFW Surf’s location in Frisco at Hidden Cove Park and Marina where they were divided into groups and rotated between 3 stations. Station 1- The Classroom- Here they learned about the history and roots of paddleboarding from the Hawaiians to Laird Hamilton to California to Texas. Next they learned about the different ways to paddle along with the many benefits of the sport followed by a briefing about safety and rules and regulations from the ocean to the lakes. Station 2- Learn to Paddle- Here the Scouts learned about SUP basics and board/ paddle terminology and then they hit the water. By the time they were finished they new how to apply a “reverse” and a “sweep” turn. Station 3- Fitness/Yoga/Prone- Here students learned about popular activities like fitness and yoga on the boards. The important part here was knowing how to paddle and maneuver without a paddle, on your knee or your stomach. Students learned basic fitness and yoga moves and terminology like “plank” and “prone.” Station 4- Paddleboard Badge Test- Here students answered many of the same questions featured in the WPA (World Paddle Association) Test that they had learned throughout the day.

“All of the girls learned how to paddle, to have fun and be safe, then they all passed their tests and received a one of a kind paddle badge. We hope to take these programs and incorporate a national badge for both Girl and Boy Scouts,” says DFW Surf founder and Yolo Board Team Rider Tyler Marshall. “As I was teaching in the classroom and showing river surfing and SUP Yoga videos and one of our new SUP wake surfing videos I could see the excitement on each of their faces and knew that we had created something special.”

New for 2017 we have created a more comprehensive program based on the rules and regulations of Scout organizations like Girl Scouts and American Heritage Girls. Click on the link below to get your troop involved:

MORE INFO ABOUT TROOP OUTTINGS AND PADDLEBOARD PATCH/ BADGE OPPORTUNITIES HERE

Are there Alligators in North Texas?

August 5, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

“Are there alligators on the lake?” Surprisingly, this question is asked frequently. Alligators are very scary, can be harmful when touched and they do not like paddleboarders, kayakers, or wake surfers. LOL!! Unfortunately, this is not the case at all. Every other year there seems to be a rare sighting of an alligator on remote lakes near the metroplex and the sighting is broadcasted all over the news. The most important thing to keep in mind if you were wondering about whether or not you should come out to the lake is that alligator sightings are both rare and remote. This means that once a year or every two years they are sighted because of the fact that there are not many alligators on North Texas lakes at all (most of them have been found on the Trinity River, Lake Worth or remote areas on the outskirts of popular lakes). Remote means that, out of the 20 or so gators that are around, they are nowhere near the open areas of the lake, they would most likely be located in shallow waterway runoffs away from the public. And finally, if there is an alligator spotting then good luck gator! When the rare sighting does take place, local gator rescue teams take action towards immediate removal. The picture above shows exactly what took place on July 9th on the Trinity River in Fort Worth. The funny part is that the gator caught near the Trinity was actually blind.

Alligator Gar on the other hand are very abundant, are usually found in packs and can be found near Marinas or low level waterways outside of the main bodies of lake water. These things are basically 80% fish-20% alligator and mostly harmless.

Here’s an alligator gar as seen on the tv show “River Monsters.” The biggest gars in the world are found on the Trinity River that flows through Dallas and Fort Worth.

While you might find the occasional alligator and plenty of alligator gar in Texas, rest assured, that Texas is not like Florida that is abundant with alligators who can be dangerous. North Texas lakes are safe to swim and play. See you on the water.

Paddleboard Raffle Anyone?

July 28, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

It’s not every day you find a solid racing board for a good price. The hardest part at times when pocketing out some green to further complete your collection of boards is justifying to your husband/wife/friends why this board is key to benefiting your paddling life. If that wasn’t the case then all of us would be building an extra garage to hold our plethora of boards!

Consider the problems no more! Imagine owning a new racing board possibly only for $100 and the money you spent on it goes to a good cause, eliminating all haze you may get towards throwing another board on the wall! Ben Baecker a local paddler and organizer of the Bambu Bash in Belton Texas has done just that by deciding to raffle off his custom carbon fiber Black Box Paddle Board. All proceeds go towards an 11 month long mission trip Ben leaves for in September called The World Race.

Tickets are 1 for $20 or 6 for $100.

The board will be raffled off in person at the Bastrop SUP Cup August 15th. www.facebook.com/bastropsupcup. You do not need to be present to claim the board if you win. Tickets are for sale now through the 14th of August on Ben’s support blog at

http://benjaminbaecker.theworldrace.org and will be sold in person at the SUP CUP. To purchase tickets through Ben’s blog click the orange ‘Support Me’ tab at the top right of his page. This will lead you to a safe online donation sight where you can type in the amount you wish to give. While filling out the info needed be sure to include your email address so I can respond to your donation and assure you I received it and acknowledge the number of tickets you bought. Physical tickets will not be handed out but simply your names and emails will be written on a card/cards pending the amount you buy and placed in a bucket to be drawn from the day of the race.

Now for the good part. The board! Matt Campbell and the boys at Blk Box surf have been shaping Great Lakes surf boards for years. Since turning their sights on paddle boarding their business has expanded rapidly. Blk Box stand up paddle boards are among the winningest SUP boards in the Midwest Race Series and have caused ripples that can be felt on either coast. It is a 14’x25’’x6.25’’ single fin, Carbon Fiber board weighing in at 21lbs and covered with a 3D foam pad. It has placed 2nd at the Colorado River Ramble and craves to build up water miles with it’s future owner. In the picture you will see a haze strip across the bottom of the board. While in transit from Minnesota to Texas it fell off the rack resulting in a hairline crack in the resin on the bottom of the board and small puncture hole on top of the face. All fixed and inspected by a professional so don’t let that scare you away! (Raffle includes board bag).

For any further questions email Ben at baeckbro@gmail.com and be sure to follow along on his blog throughout the next year to see pictures and stories from his journey around the world! Happy paddling!

Why the Ashley Kidd Pro Model is the perfect board for 7+

July 27, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

The perfect board for her! Stay surfing my friends with the new Ashley Kidd Pro Model by Erie Wake featuring the new FCS snap on fin system, vector netting and rocket tail design. These boards are very light and very durable hand shaped manufactured by legendary shaper Erie Peoples and available in 3 vibrant colors- pink, neon yellow and blue and 3 different sizes: 4’2, 4’6 and 4’10. Start your kids out on the 4’2. This is a board that is light, that they can carry and it is the closest thing to feeling like you are a surfer.

Claire Morgan picked up the 4’2 and in her first wake surfing season she has entered into the competitive wake surf scene and recently took 3rd place at the Lake Anna Wake Surf Open. The 4’2 is for intermediate to advance surfers looking to air it out and carve it up like Ashley. The 4’2 is also great for new grom surfers, ages 6-12. (We recommend the 4’6 or 4’10 for beginner surfers ages 14 +).

If you are really starting to get into wake surfing, looking to progress your skills and conquer that true “surf style” feeling, then you should look into buying a high performance wake surfboard like the Ashley Kidd Pro Model by Erie Wake. This board is the definition of surf style and if you start at an early enough age, you will be riding like a pro in no time. Check out Ashley in action below and more from DFW Surf team rider Ashley Kidd HERE. Grab an Ashley Kidd Pro Model at our Surf Shop, or Book a Wake Surf Lesson or try one of our demo boards.

Pool Party! New SUP Yoga and Fitness Classes

July 13, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

A new type of pool party is upon us, available at your local public pool or Life Time Fitness Center, featuring SUP Yoga and fitness classes. No, it does not involve getting drunk and laying out or doing canon balls. This is the future of pool parties and fitness programs throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, currently featured at Plano Parks and Rec, Hydrous Wake Park in Little Elm and Life Time Fitness locations throughout the area. “Pool fitness and yoga is hot right now. We teach people the fundamentals of surfing and paddling and yoga, put 10 students and 10 boards in a pool and the result is a fun new and challenging way to do fitness and yoga,” says DFW Surf founder and fitness coach Tyler Marshall. The best part is that the environment is controlled, wind protected and can be experienced at indoor pools year round.

“Stand up paddle board yoga is taking yoga to new heights. Seasoned yogis and newbies can all find some common ground because there is simply is no ground to be had. With SUP Yoga, there is a whole new level of excitement and novelty that breaks down all barriers; it places everyone in the same state of vulnerability to just be playful and accepting. It is a great lesson to learn on the mat, off the mat and on the paddleboard. Whether you have practiced yoga for years or never stepped on the mat, SUP Yoga will open you up to potential you did not know you had, teach you to let go of what you cannot control and leave you wanting more,” says Jenn Bodnar, co-founder of Yoga Digest Magazine and SUP Yoga instructor at Life Time Fitness.

Wakesurfing 101: Boards, Boats and Accessories

May 19, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

We got to admit, wake surfing is an expensive sport, it is a luxury, a privilege, but it is also a great opportunity. Wake surfing is the endless wave surfing experience that true surfers dream about. The fun never ends.

So once you are ready to finance your dreams you will start to do research. You might even google “best wake surfing boat” or “best wake surfboard.” Then you might find yourself a little overwhelmed with how many choices there are: boats, boards and accessories. With so many decisions, ultimately, you will want to choose what makes you happy.

With nearly a decade of experience and a daily dedication to the water and without specifically naming brands, here is our advice:

Wake Surf Boats 101:

The bigger the boat = the bigger the wave = more ballast you need to create a bigger wake. We recommend a 23-25 foot boat and a 102 inch beam (width).

How to lengthen the wave? Two simple techniques, either speed up or place more weight in the bow of the boat.

Engine: the bigger the boat, the more ballast and weight applied means that you need an engine that can handle the weight. The days of 350s are over. For power and gas mileage combination we recommend the next step up, a 409

Prop rotation– most inboard boats have a counter clockwise prop rotation, which means that the wave on the regular (port) side will naturally be cleaner than the goofy (starboard) side. Then there are a couple boat models with a clockwise prop rotation. Which side will you be doing most of your surfing on? (Ask us about our new wake shaper devices that will clean up and lengthen your wave on both regular and goofy sides).

Boats and Safety: Around 2007 Larry Mann created an external device to route carbon monoxide down and away from wake surfers called Fresh Air Exhaust. If you own a boat or are looking for a used boat that is not made in California, or one that is made before 2009 then you probably do not have a catalytic converter. Be safe, don’t inhale monoxide, or buy a fresh air exhaust from Mr. Larry Mann. Or better yet, buy a new boat with a catalytic converter that comes standard.

Boats and Re-sale Value: Some people say the best two days on the water is when they buy a boat and also the day that you sell your boat. This might be because you bought an extremely used boat that doesn’t work half the time. But if the best day is when you sell your boat, then it is safe to say that buying a boat with a good re-sale value is a good investment. At the same time it is important to take care of your boat with regular oil changes and maintenance.

Wake Surfboards:

The right boat with a powerful and lengthy wave is half the battle. Now you need a board that is your size and your style. Ultimately the best decision you can make is to demo the boat or board before you buy.

Surf vs. Skim– There are two types of boards and then several hybrid, or in-between models. Surf style is with a board that is similar to an ocean surfboard including bigger fins and a wooden stringer designed for greater speed and airs. Skim boards on the other hand are smaller with a single fin and designed for surface tricks and skateboard like maneuvers.

Board size– The right size board is probably the most important thing. The most popular group of new wake surfers at DFW Surf are moms and dads in their 40s and 50s and the weight range is anywhere from 100-160 to 200-280. The difficult part is the 200-280 and finding a board with enough buoyancy to float. Most of the boards on the market are designed to be “boat boards” meaning that they are small, thin and durable and can conveniently fit into board racks. The problem is that the 200-280 lb guy cannot wakesurf without a big enough board that will not be able to fit into a board rack. On the other end of the spectrum are the 4-7 year old groms who struggle to wakesurf because there is not a small enough board on the market for them.

Wake Surf Accessories:

Beyond the boat and board you need some accessories to complete your summer of surf. Grab a swimsuit and a lifejacket that will allow for easy surf maneuverability. Make sure you have a coast guard approved life jacket. Lastly, grab some fat sacs for an even bigger wake and don’t forget the drinks and tunes.

Must Have Accessories:

Can’t afford a boat and want to surf? Look to join our DFW Surf Club.

Just purchased a new or used boat? Let us help you get dialed in. Book a Lesson on Your Boat.

Come check out all of our new gear, place a pre order or demo/ rent a board today at the DFW Surf Shop

2015 Yolo Boards

May 13, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

While the sports of wake surfing and stand up paddle boarding are still very much in their infancy, it’s important to buy your first board from a company that has worked through the R and D process, one that has “dialed in” their equipment with the best materials, performance construction and eye-popping designs. The same year that DFW Surf was born (2007) was also the year that Yolo Board started to produce its first boards. Nearly a decade later Yolo Board can definitely say that it is “dialed in” with its boards and performance paddles, a dealer network that has increased its sales by 20% each year and a distribution network that is fast and reliable. The most important part is that each customer is happy with his or her purchase and can find a perfect board- cruiser, yoga, fisher, fitness, surf or racer.

YOLO Board:
The 2015 Yolo Board lineup is sold exclusively in North Texas at DFW Surf. Most of the 2015 models feature new design artwork thanks to famous designer Jake Meyer. You will not find another board out there with artwork that comes close to a Yolo Board design. What is exciting is that Yolo Board is committed to the paddle community of inland America, a community that wants to get out on a board and cruise around and have a good time. The Coastal Cruiser is the epitome of the movement and one of the best all-around cruisers ever made.

YOLO Board Inflatables:
Next up, we are stoked to legitimately say that we now house the best inflatable on the market. Inflatables are no easy board to manufacture and takes years to perfect. Come 2015 the new Yolo Board inflatables are dialed in and super stylish. Both the Coastal Cruiser and inflatable are designed with an all-around focus, speed and stability for any condition plus all the tie down straps you need for gear.

YOLO Board Fishers- Guzman:
SUP fishing is becoming more popular especially in the Texas area. For years fishers have used kayaks to get around and paddle to those secret spots without scaring off all the fish. What has been lacking in kayak fishing has been opened up and literally, standing up, for SUP fishing. You can actually stand up with comfort and cast out your line with greater distance, or even go fly fishing. Paddle from A to B, find your sweet spot and toss out an anchor and then catch all the action on one of the gopro mounts. Check out the new designs on the Guzman Yolo fishers. At 325 Liters and 35 inches wide, this is also a “go-to” board for first timers or bigger paddlers in search of ultimate stability and tons of tie down straps for all your gear.

YOLO Board Racers:
Last but not least we wanted to show off the 2015 Yolo Board racers. SUP racing is still so new and niche, but something that is catching on and gaining in popularity. The exciting part is the speed gained on a racing board versus an all-around board. Racing aside, the feeling of gliding across the water and being able to get from point A to point B quicker is all the more reason to make a big purchase towards a touring or racing board. DFW Surf founder, 2014 Region 12 WPA Champ and new Yolo Board team rider, Tyler Marshall, is stoked to be equipped on Yolo Board racers and EJ elite paddles for the 2015 season. Riding on a Yolo Orange Crush 25 1/2 Tyler dominated one of the biggest races of the year, taking second, in a field of more than three hundred paddlers at the annual Hanohano Huki Ocean Challenge in San Diego. “The new Yolo racers are designed for speed at an affordable price. There is a big misconception about racing boards and a a big trend in the past year towards a lighter board. The key is a balanced board with a volume that will float your body weight with sustained glide rather than a board that is too light that requires a sustained rate of acceleration for float. At 155 lbs the new Orange Crush 25 1/2 narrow width focus is the perfect board for me,” says Tyler.

Also available are the Yolo Board touring models. The focus is a race board that is stable enough with tie down straps and gopro mount to be labeled a “Touring” board. All racing models feature the LiftSUP retractable carrying handle so that you can carry easier and lock up for security.

EJ Series Performance Paddles:
The one thing that we see the most with beginner paddlers and racers is that they purchase a nice board, but not a nice paddle. The paddle itself is a game-changer! Like the first time you get on a faster touring or racing board, the first time you use a quality performance paddle will change your life. It could even change your feeling about paddling regularly. And once again Yolo Board has set the standard for paddle performance thanks to Elite racer and legendary paddle designer, EJ Johnson. A comfortable paddle with a “fast catch and quick release,” plus new for 2015- matte finish option and 3 blade sizes to choose from. Just like the board, you want to get the right size paddle blade based on your body weight and skill.

For more info, to talk to an expert, or to place a board order please contact us today: 972 427 4082, ext. 1, or info@dfwsurf.com

Japan to DFW Surf with Toshi Masaki

May 6, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

What is your surfing background?

I had been surfing since 19 years old in Japan. (I am now 40 years old). Waves in Japan are relatively smaller than California. Only during typhoon season (autumn), very big swell drops but I could ride at most over head high. (3-4 feet) Double over head wave is impossible for me. Since I had been an week-end surfer, I am not so good at trick and performance.

Tell me about your first time wake surfing?

Fantastic!! Though wave was small, I felt more speed and thrill during wake surfing than ocean surfing on the same size wave. It was so fun that I was still riding on a wave in my dream at that night. Keeping sweet spot by taking balance is quite difficult for me. (We need to walk even on the short board to accelerate or brake). Thanks to appropriate instruction by Tyler, I could enjoy wake surfing so much at the first time and I felt that the initial private lesson is very good for beginner like me. I want to learn more!

What is the difference between surfing and wake surfing?

I think there are 2 big differences. One is that all the same long wall is continuing endlessly. The other is that power zone on the wake surfing wave is very small, narrow and sensitive. In ocean surfing, even if we loose balance, it is easy to recover because power zone is wide, but while wake surfing, once we loose balance and are out of the power spot, it is very difficult to recover.

Was wake surfing your longest time on a wave?

Of course!! My legs were still so pumping.

DFW Surf on UNT TV

April 29, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

The University of North Texas crew came out to our surf shop and got to learn about the DFW Surf experience. The consensus: Get out to the lake this summer and make your way over to DFW Surf- the best price for some lake fun thanks to stand up paddle boarding. Here’s the segment from their newscast on the NT TV network:

How to Get Air with Parker Payne

April 14, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

Wakesurfing Tricks: How to Get Air

Step 1: Practice out of the Water with a Skateboard
Step 2: Practice with a Rope
Step 3: Tuck Your Knees to your Chest

Every wakesurfer wants to get big air! Going big on airs is a lot of fun to do and also fun to watch. When I first started learning airs I practiced out of the water. Learning to ollie a skateboard is the ticket to getting big airs. Skateboarding gives you the feeling of stomping down on your back foot and sliding with your front foot. Taking this to the water will help you lift off the water. Once you have mastered the feeling of getting the board off of the water you can start to work on getting higher in the air. Practicing with the rope is a big help. It allows you to go bigger than you might go without the rope and provides extra stability.

Take a Wakesurfing Lesson or Ask a Pro

When I was learning to get airs I learned them from Chase Hazen. He told me that every time I go for an air to “try to make it as big and powerful as it can possibly be.” Chase gets giant airs because he is flexible and puts a lot of power into his take offs and who wouldn’t love to go as high as Chase goes? To get that high off the water you have to be able to get your knees high in order to bring the board up with you. Aim on getting your knees up to your ears, keep your body over the board and reach for the sky. Big airs are something everyone wants but not everyone gets. Go big every time and with practice you’ll be airing them out too!” Check out Chase below in his 2011 World Championship Run:

Watch Videos from Sources like Boarders Magazine

Learn from other athletes and watch as many videos as you can. Boarders Magazine is a great wakesurfing source for industry news, videos and trick tips. Check out their article: How to Get Air Wake Surfing.

By Parker Payne

Learn more about Parker Payne at parkerpayne.com

Check out Parker’s 2015 World Wake Surfing Championship run:

Keeping Texas Beautiful

April 13, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

The Problem: According to the EPA, “40% of lakes and rivers do not meet water quality standards.” The amount of trash seems to keep building up, land fills keep stacking up and local sources for water, including lakes and rivers, keep being polluted. There is a problem and there needs to be a solution.

For the local watersport scene this is crucial, not only for business and local tourism, but more importantly, to sustain lake life and its activities that we love. Statistically, thousands of locals and tourists venture out to Texas lakes year after year, but imagine if these lakes become contaminated and polluted to a certain extent such that the news, media and word of mouth have created a conception that these lakes are “dirty.” Would you want to be on a lake or river that is unkept and trashy? Would you want to go to one that you heard was dirty?

The Solution: Education/ Awareness + Cleanup.

In south Texas, Austin area, Linda McCoy-Schriever has been the solution and for her efforts she is the recent recipient of the Keep Texas Beautiful Volunteer of the Year Award. According to the Keep Texas Beautiful website, “For the past 6 years, Linda has dedicated herself to making an impact in the Austin community. As a Clean Lady Bird Lake, Adopt-a-Creek, and Clean Sweep site leader, she has trained hundreds of volunteers throughout her years of service. In 2014 alone, she spent 386 hours volunteering with Keep Austin Beautiful programs.” Congrats to our friend Linda for her efforts and to all of our paddle + trash clean up events she has organized over the years.

We invite you to come join our efforts around Texas to Keep Texas Beautiful and to ultimately Keep America Beautiful.

Group-Trash — Trash clean up at Grapevine Lake thanks to the DFW Surf crew

It starts with each individual like Linda and organized trash clean ups such as the ones at DFW Surf we have been organizing since 2007 like our “Pick up Trash and then Surf for Free Days.” With all of our efforts on the lakes throughout Texas we can make a difference. The following pictures are just from a couple hours of clean up. Imagine if we can give a couple days a year of our time. Please come support our next clean up opportunity on Lake Grapevine, click HERE for more info, this Saturday the 18th. Pick up a bag of trash and treat yourself to an hour of paddleboarding thanks to the DFW Surf Club.

DFW Surf’s Perry Morrison Joins Tige Boats

April 7, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

Seven years old and full of energy, athletic ability and excitement, Perry walked down the boat ramp and eager for his first day of surf camp at DFW Surf. Two months later he could surf for minutes at a time and two years later he won his first contest as an amateur. Today he is the youngest sponsored athlete in the sport of wake surfing and a new member of Team Tige. Perry is excited to join the Tige Boats team of accomplished athletes like Dominic Lagace and pro surfer Josh Kerr. When asked about goals, Perry says that “I wanna be the best I can be and some day win first place in the World Wake Surfing Championship.”

“I am very excited for Perry and for the sport of wake surfing. Since day one of learning how to surf I have never seen such a competitive and progressive athlete like Perry and such an honest and dedicated individual. I look forward to continue working with Perry and helping him pursue his goals.” -Tyler Marshall- Coach and Founder of DFW Surf School.

Learn more about Perry on the Team Tige Pro Athletes page

DFW Surf to Host PaddleFit Pro

February 24, 2015 by tyler@dfwsurf.com

PaddleFit Pro announces its 2015 certification schedule and a stop in North Texas at DFW Surf on Lake Grapevine March 28-29. So what is PaddleFit Pro and why is it considered the premier certification course for SUP? If you offer a paddleboard concession or school why should you get certified? The sport has been growing in such rapid numbers, why is it important to teach customers how to paddle first before renting them a board?

Then name PaddleFit has become a brand name to embody everything from an all inclusive certification program to local classes and training tips and techniques thanks to Brody Welte, founder, competitive paddler and new coach of team USA. Brody enters in the industry years ago with a background in fitness and his mentors include Dave Kalama and Laird Hamilton. Today Brody’s PaddleFit certification program has reached nearly 1000 active and certified coaches globally and 2015 will mark the biggest year yet for new certified instructors. Specifically, the “inland market,” “lakes and rivers,” is the area of the most growth. According to Brody, “the number one objective is to teach people how to paddle and the foundations of how to paddle. If people are paddling right they will be less prone to injury.”

In North Texas specifically there are a handful of paddle/canoe/ and kayak concessions and operations run by individuals with little or no experience and no sort of certifications or guidelines for their customers. “I was happy to find DFW Surf and discover instructors who are out there on the water with you” is one of the biggest responses we get from our customers. This is the biggest problem facing the fastest growing watersport in the world- SAFETY. With so many new people getting on the water and new concession companies popping up left and right the biggest safety issue are RENTALS. The problem with local and national boat rental companies is that anyone is able to drive a boat if they have a valid driver’s license, but what about a boating license or intro course? Without instruction can you think of any risks that new paddlers and boaters possess? The result, unfortunately, has been very dangerous and even fatal for new lake goers and specifically first-timers or renters.

Stand up paddle boarding is still such a new sport and yet there are so many new companies who are still without any sort of certification or credential. At the same time, there are not that many comprehensive certification courses for schools and instructors either. The list is short including the ACA, or American Canoe Association, which offers more of a kayak/canoe-based curriculum along with the WPA (World Paddle Association), SUPAA (Stand up Paddle Athlete’s Association) and several SUP Yoga and paddle fitness based certification courses like Fitness on Board. The sport of surfing for instance is sanctioned by a couple different governing bodies including the ISA (International Surfing Association) and the NSSIA (National Surf Schools and Instructors Association) and within wake surfing there is the CWSA (Competitive Wake Surf Association). With so many different governing bodies, especially in a new sport, who is to say which body should take precedent? Who has authority? Can any person or company create a governing body? In the sport of stand up paddle boarding should certifications be mandated by the state or local government? And if so, which certification course should have authority?

What’s great about PaddleFit is that it is paddleboard specific. The Level 1 and 2 program will give new paddlers and novice concession operators everything they need to know to create a good foundation and conduct their business safely. Level 1 includes: water safety and rescue techniques and Level 2 breaks down the stroke, fundamentals and basic training concepts and how to do an assessment. Following Level 1 you can pay $35 to take the WPA test, so you can be both PaddleFit and WPA certified.

More about Brody and PaddleFit on his website and registration for March 28-29 certification course at http://www.paddlefitpro.com/get-certified/

Learn more about Brody and the program in this article: “Brody Welte is PaddleFit Pro“

Brody will also be hosting a paddle performance clinic on Friday evening. Please email tyler@dfwsurf.com if you are interested.