I had three choices this weekend... 1. A race where I stood a good chance of winning(race and cash) because it was a race I was good at 2. UK with my hubby OR 3. World Series SURF race (leading the world series but surf racing not my forte). I chose the surf race for a couple of reasons but knew there was a chance I would find hardship where the other choices had better chances of success...I definetly chose the hardest/riskiest choice and put myself outside my comfort zones where risk and emotional distress was possible.
Day 1 The Sprints
Big Waves, rough beach break...swirly ocean.. the name of the game on Day 1
In the sprints I found the hardship, I learned some things, was challenged, and had to accept defeat (good lesson but not as fun as winning:)) I didn't make the finals...AHHH.... It was hard but thanks to a solid group of people who supported me, I shook it past me,.... this stuff happens... its all in the name of racing:) Racers rocked it though and totally conquered the waves... I would stand on the start line and think"holy crap how am I ever gonna get past the first wave...hahaha BUT I did...
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| Day 1 coming into the beach photo by Harry Wiewel |
I have to thanks the Howson's (Harbour Surfboards) for taking me in as one of heir own. They are the kindest, most selfless, fun family: Moe and Jade are amazing daughters and Kris and Robert are parents I strive to be like:) They provided a roof over my head, changed their plans to get me to the races (otherwise I wouldn't have made it), they provided support pre-during-post races, they helped me out in more ways than one. I am ever so grateful and blessed to have crossed paths with this unbelievable family. Check out Harbour Surfboards at Seal Beach (their shop) and watch out for Jade Howson, a 12 year old girl that is gonna rock this sport very very soon!
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| Candice, Jade, and I photo: Robert Howson |
Day 2, Long Distance: a new day
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| Mens start for long distance race photo: race |
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| after effect of strong shorebreak |
The swell was down but there was still plenty of shorebreak and waves to deal with. This was not the standard distance race.. actually it was more like a long short course BOP style race. 5 laps and each lap we had to surf into the beach and run around a flag and get out again. So, not really my style of distance racing but again good practice for the upcoming races...
I luckily had a decent start and then managed to hold it together for the five laps..... I made some mistakes and had to deal with waves but was able to use my power and strength out on the longer paddling sections to hold onto a second place finish.... The second in the distance and 7th in the sprints gave me a 4th overall standing. Thanks to all the wonderful athletes for their positive stoke and positive words out there.... you all rock:)
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| top three distance race photo: Robert Howson |
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| running into the finish photo: Robert Howson |
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| Interview time photo: robert howson |
Magically, I am still leading the world series tour for the ladies... but not by much and the last race is another surf race.. clearly my favorite(joke)!Practice Practice Practice.... smile smile smile:) :) All this will only make me stronger... and I am already wayyyyyyy better in the waves... and it is fun:) its all about the journey, the people, the learning, the challenges, and then seeing the improvements and sharing:)
Battle of the Paddle is up next:)
live, love, laugh,..DREAM!
lina
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