Got my first SUP on Friday after demoing a heap - a 9 3 ripper. After changing my mind several times AA tried to line me up a 9 8 ripper but as things turned out I ended up with the 9 3. I couldn't be happier!!
Went out early Sat to Fairy Bower (Manly, NSW point break) in glassy conditions waist to occasional head high. Got 3 waves before I fell off - stoked. Couldn't do much except straightline but didn't care. Even got a head high one - super stable on the drop, didn't feel like nose would catch at all.
I swapped out the center fin for an old goatie one about 4 inches tall, with G5 sides then in the Arvo I went out Nth Curly. Tried to surf the point but the wind was up and water was boiling everywhere - very different kettle of fish - so went into the beachy - got one head high one then went into a little break away from the crew about waist high. What a hoot!! Crap waves really - on my shortboard I would be lucky to get enough speed to do a turn. This thing was flying and I managed to suss out a few basic turns and even a little reo or two.
Surfed twice again on Sunday on the same beachie, am hooked! Here are a few observations/questions:
9'3 ripper is as stable for a 80 kg beginner as a 9 6 AA. I found the standard center fin too stiff - probably my lack of skill though. From the vids I have seen it seems you need a lot of back foot action to turn em quick - more so that a short board. Any tips appreciated.
This sport works every bloody muscle in your body and I thought I was fit!! By Sunday arvo I could hardly move.
Where are all the Sup riders on the northern beaches? I didn't see one the whole weekend from DY poles to the Bower. I was probably in the wrong place at the wrong time.
PS I feel like a Learner driver who's been given a Porche
