Not been much of a poster but want to share a bit of my recent 2 week trip to Maui.

The Aloha started when I wanted to try a Jimmy Lewis board in Maui. I email the info email address at the Jimmy Lewis site and ask where I can hire a JL board on Maui? I get a reply from Jimmy himself who says that he's got a place that sells them but nowhere on island that rents them - so why don't I just pick up one of his demo boards to use while I'm there

Had to think long and hard about that but couldn't think of a reason not to Decided in the end on a Hanalei 10'4 (I've got a 10'6 Safari and a 12' C4 Holoholo here). Loved the board - had it out in 1ft to overhead while I was there. I'm not very experienced in big surf (surf was big for me) and the most impressive things were the rocker and how easily it turns. I didn't ever put the nose in and on coral bases that was helpful! Felt like I improved every day - supped all but 2 days (drenching rain).

The small stuff was around Lahaina and Lahuniupoko (? spelling) near Lahaina. The bigger stuff was 2 days at Mamas next to Hookipa (interesting entry and exit) and the best day was at Kanaha (windsurfers will know that well). Kanaha was the busiest of all spots - I counted 34 other suppers and about 6-7 longboarders. The most I had been out with before was about 5 or 6. Aloha was everywhere and it was a really great trip.

I've been to Maui many times in July but never in "winter". The number of whales was amazing also.

Also just a thank you to Laurie and the "breezers" - I know I don't post often but I will try and not rely on such an exceptional experience to bring me out of hiding! I've been supping for a bit over a year but don't get out often enough.

Anthony