Contenders Elevate Their Game, Day 4, ISAF Sailing World Cup Miami

MIAMI, Fla. (January 31, 2013) – It was a critical day of racing for the ten Olympic and two Paralympic classes at the 2013 ISAF Sailing World Cup Miami. As the fleet series winds down for these events and in some cases new racing formats go into motion, the time is now for sailors to make a run at the leaderboard.

Pro Paddle Clinic with SUP YOLO Elite Racer Westy

Following the first event of the Mayor's River Fest on Sunday February 17, 2013 we are hosting Elite YOLO Board Racer Westy. This is a unique opportunity to learn from one of the most recognized SUP professionals in the country. Space is limited so RSVP early.

2013 Offshore Racing Capsule Training Session

Shared by OPA, 01/31/2013
​
THERE WILL BE ( TWO ) SAFETY CELL CERTIFICATION DATES ON:
SATURDAY MARCH 9TH, 2013
SATURDAY APRIL 13 ST, 2013
​
COST
$ 35.00 FOR APBA MEMBERS
$ 40.00 FOR OPA MEMBERS w/ SWIM TEST (offshore only)
$ 20.00 FOR SWIM TEST ONLY (offshore only)

LOCATION:
​EAST DETROIT HIGH SCHOOL POOL
9 MILE RD JUST WEST OF GRATIOT AVE
ENTRANCE FROM 9 MILE ROAD SIDE OF BLDG
EASTPOINTE, MICHIGAN 48021
( 11:30 AM TO 1:30 PM ) SHARP
( 2 MILES WEST OF I-94, EXIT # 227 )
( 1/2 MILE W/O APBA HEADQUARTERS)

NORTHEAST OF DETROIT

PLEASE HAVE YOUR APBA # WITH YOU (IF YOU ARE A MEMBER)
(OFFSHORE OR OPA. MEMBERS # NOT NEEDED)

TESTING INSTRUCTOR :
​ ANDREW C. GUARESIMO
( aka BLUEWATER ANDY )

​Offshore Powerboat Racing is returning to Lake Havasu for the First Offshore Triathlon on APRIL 26 - 27, 2013.

Shared by OPA, LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. (January 23, 2013)

​​Offshore Powerboat Racing is returning to Lake Havasu for the First Offshore Triathlon on APRIL 26 - 27, 2013.
​
The race will be held in conjunction with the Storm Chaser's Desert Storm Performance Boat Event in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Over 6,000 racers and spectators are expected to visit the Race Village.
​
The Offshore Powerboat Race will be sanctioned Pacific Offshore Powerboat Racing Association (POPRA) Offshore race boats will compete from all over the U.S., ranging from 22 feet to over 50 feet; POPRA boats speed upwards of 140 MPH in some of the Pro classes.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, The Battle Continues On

Fleet News
JP Dick moored off Spain
Le Cam heading past the Azores High
De Lamotte crossed Equator

Fleet News
Three down with nine to go. So François Gabart (MACIF), Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire), François Gabart (MACIF) and Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) may have written the opening lines of the epilogue of the seventh Vendée Globe, but there remains nine pretenders to yet end the tale. Today, the plotline revolves around a tired, lonely, Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac Paprec 3) moored keel-less to a buoy for three days with too much time to think and not enough food or fuel. He is waiting for a weather window so that he can begin his 291 miles journey back to Les Sables d’Olonne. So near yet so far.

After 24 hours of surfing the coast to round Cape Finisterre in 30 knots of wind, rough seas, amongst the busy maritime motorway of cargo ships and fishing boats, a sleep deprived Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac Paprec 3) has found shelter along the Galician coast, in the mining port of San Ciprián (San Cibrao). At 5:30 this morning, Virbac-Paprec 3 picked up a mooring buoy in the harbour, protected from the prevailing winds and the sea.

On today’s Vendée Globe Live, Jean-Pierre said he was exhausted. He was planning to dive and check to the boat so he could further secure it in face of an incoming gale expected between late Thursday lasting until Friday. He also indicated that he had used his engine, which broke the engine seal, in order to finalize his approach to the buoy. He must write a report to the jury to explain the facts. A second report will be issued to specify the start time.

The Venture Cup Prologue Offshore Powerboat Race Is On

The Venture Offshore Cup has provided some clarification into this year’s race.  Described as the World's longest, toughest and most prestigious powerboat race, the Venture Cup will begin with a Prologue event in June of 2013, and then a full race from London to Monte-Carlo in 2014.

Venture Cup Prologue in June of 2013 will start in the heart of London, with stops in Brighton, Guernsey, Northern France, Bournemouth and Poole. 

The original Cowes to Monte-Carlo race was being organized by a different company which pulled the event in early December 2012. The teams then came together, created a new structure, ”Venture Cup”  agreed on how best to deliver it ...and out of that comes a 'Prologue' event this year to test boats, crews, officials, systems, etc. and then the full race from London to Monte-Carlo in 2014. 

We hope to bring you regular updates and information as we get closer to the June 8^th start of this epic event. 

Multihull Racing on the Rise, Day 3, ISAF Sailing World Cup Series - Miami

Photo, ISAF Sailing World Cup, Miami

 

MIAMI, Fla. (January 30, 2013) – The stage is set for mixed multihull racing at Rio 2016. As one of two new Olympic events, the Nacra 17 is making its first appearance in the ISAF Sailing World Cup series this week in Miami.

These doublehanded teams are sorting out new strategies and techniques as they become more comfortable with this fast, light catamaran and its featured curved dagger boards. Many of the sailors competing in the Nacra 17 are making the adjustment from another boat or class. In some cases, sailors are getting acquainted with new teammates as well.

Caio Ibelli Wins ASP 4-Star Hainan Classic Over Mitch Crews

2013 Hainan Classic Champion Caio Ibelli (BRA). Pic ASP/Robertson

 

RIYUE BAY, Wanning/Hainan Island/China (Wednesday, January 30, 2012) – Caio Ibelli (BRA) has taken out the ASP 4-Star rated Hainan Classic at Riyue Bay, Hainan Island, China over Mitch Crews (AUS). The surfers battled in two foot (1 meter) long left-handers, but in the end it was Ibelli who pocketed 1000 ASP World Tour ranking’s points, as well as US$15,000 prize-money and his first ASP World Tour victory.

Searching for the Best Winter Surf Sessions at JAWS

With a large swell episode forecast to hit the Hawaiian Islands over the winter holidays, hopes were high that the Red Bull JAWS Paddle at Pe'ahi event would be on. Mother nature decided otherwise by sending highly unfavorable north winds and a less than favorable swell direction. While the event would have to wait for another day this didn't keep Ian Walsh, Jamie O'Brien, Kai Lenny, John John Florence and others from paddling out and catching some good waves.

see the video Searching for the Best Winter Surf Sessions at JAWS

Alex Thomson, Hugo Boss, third place in the 2012-2013 Vendée Globe

Alex Thomson, Hugo Boss, third place in the 2012-2013 Vendée Globe

Alex Thomson crossed the Vendée Globe finish line at 07 hours 25 minutes 43 seconds (GMT) after 80 days 19 hours 23 minutes 43 seconds at sea. He finishes 2 days 18 hours and 7 minutes behind François Gabart.

His final race time is 80 days 19 hours 25 minutes 43 seconds. His average speed around the course was 12.6 knots and he actually covered 28, 022 miles at the average speed of 14.4 knots. Note: the race’s theoretical distance was 24,393.41 miles.
After Ellen MacArthur's second place in 2000 and Mike Golding's third in 2005, Alex Thomson becomes the third British skipper ever to finish on the podium of the Vendee Globe. But his time surpasses that of the Golding's previous British solo race record from 2005 by 7 days 19 hours 52 minutes. After winner Francois Gabart and second placed Armel Le Cleac'h, Thomson has also smashed the previous race record of 84 days 03 hours 09 minutes set by Michel Desjoyeaux in 2009.

Surfer Garrett McNamara Catches Worlds Biggest Wave, Off The Coast Of Portugal

MAIL ONLINE, UK By KERRY - 29 January 2013

Surfing legend Garrett McNamara rode the enormous wall of water to shore as bystanders looked on in amazement in Nazare, Portugal

He is believed to have beaten his own record for the biggest wave ever surfed by catching the 100ft break

This thrill-seeking surfer was but a speck on this enormous wall of water as he appeared to set a new world record for the biggest wave ever ridden.

Surfing legend Garrett McNamara caught the towering wave - believed to have measured around 100ft - off the coast of Nazare, in Portugal, yesterday.

Impromptu Pipe, An Unexpected Swell Lights up the North Shore

Surfer, January 28, 2013
Much attention was focused elsewhere when this swell reached the North Shore. Mavs and Ocean Beach and Waimea had been hogging the spotlight, but that didn't last long. With swell on the way for the upcoming Pipe Pro, it's time Pipeline is back on the main stage. More Impromptu Pipe

New Beginning for Olympic, Paralympic Hopefuls, Day One at the ISAF Sailing World Cup Miami

MIAMI, Fla. (January 28, 2013) – The 311 sailors representing 37 countries were greeted with spectacular, yet challenging conditions for the first of six days of racing at the ISAF Sailing World Cup Miami. Sailors from five racecourses on Biscayne Bay welcomed sunny skies with temperatures in the mid-70s and moderate to strong winds.

Are Open Water Swimmers Watermen?

Thursday, January 10, 2013 - Open Water Source

To answer that question, we first must understand what is a waterman, a term used frequently in the surfing world?

Watermen - or its feminine equivalent, waterwomen - are individuals who are considered by their peers and the marine sports community to be well-adept, experienced and highly skilled in various marine sports and aquatic activities, performed safely and courageously in myriad conditions.

Their abilities are matched by their passion and comfort levels in the ocean. They surf, swim, paddle, kayak, body surf, boat, and dive. They can do rowing, fishing, stand-up paddling, surf lifesaving, lifeguarding, kite sailing and windsurfing.

Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012 | Auckland returns for double dose of Volvo Ocean Race

Auckland, a world renowned sailing capital, returned to the race route for the first time in 10 years in 2011-12 and staged a spectacular stopover at Auckland Viaduct, with spectators packing the Race Village and Waitemata Harbour. This will be the ninth time the race has stopped in the city.

 More; Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012 | Auckland returns for double dose of Volvo Ocean Race

America's Cup - Coutts: “I’m optimistic”

© Guilain GRENIER / ORACLE TEAM USA

The CEO of ORACLE TEAM USA sounds confident as his team prepares to re-launch its first AC72 early next month. Russell Coutts says the team has responded well since the October capsize and can’t wait to get back out on the water.

America's Cup - Sailing the 72: fit, fast, strong and agile

Rob Waddell in full flight on the 14m sprint across the AC72.

Rob Waddell well remembers the day he first set foot on the AC72.

“I remember thinking the boat was about as big as it could be and still be sailed by people power. If it was any bigger it would need an engine rather than grinders alone.

“The first day sailing was pretty tough physically and sailing the AC72 is still tough. But once systems were in place and we learned how to work together as a team it got better and better.”

Rob Waddell knows more than a little about fitness, strength and endurance. He’s an Olympic gold medallist in rowing, has won several world championship titles and played top-level rugby. He joined Team New Zealand as a grinder in 2001.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Focused on the Finish Line

Fleet News
Media circus for Gabart and Armel Le Cléac’h
Thomson nursing boat home
Tricky trade winds

Fleet News
The record breaking duo’s feet have barely touched the ground since they made their unprecedented arrival into Les Sables d’Olonne yesterday. Never in the race’s history have two boats been so close together. With an exhausted François Gabart (MACIF) rationalising his victory and an energetic Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) gallantly coming to terms with his second place. After the press conferences the two skippers enjoyed their first showers, with towels, got dressed into clean clothes and partied with their teams, friends, guests and sponsors. It was an early night for François Gabart (MACIF) and an early morning for Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) as he dominated the dance floor at their joint welcome home party. Up with the lark the two skippers are enduring a marathon of media interviews as the world’s media clamours for their attention in the face of the remarkable victory. Undoubtedly, a historic battle, which will be discussed around the globe’s pontoons for decades to come as one of the greatest yacht racing moments in history.


Thomson battered by gale force winds
Meanwhile back on the track, last night, Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) was in conditions ranging from 35 knots of wind gusting up to 45 knots and now in 35 knots of wind. “I just want to finish the race as safely as possible. My foot is off the pedal. I am taking it easy. I don’t really care when I finish as long as I finish. 45 knots of wind in a IMOCA Open 60 is not enjoyable at all.” He said today, on the English version of Vendée Globe LIVE.

Team Australia wins ISA China Surfing Cup 2013

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 27 January, 2013 : - - Wanning, Hainan, China, - The International Surfing Association is pleased to announce the winners of the 2013 ISA China Cup.

Brazil’s Michael Rodrigues and Australia’s Philippa Anderson win Gold with dominant performances

With a powerhouse team in both the Men and Women’s draw, Australia won the Team Gold Medal for the second consecutive year in the ISA China Cup. Brazil placed a close second, earning the Silver Medal, Hawaii won the Bronze Medal, and France took the Copper Medal to complete the team results.

In an action-packed heat, Brazil’s Michael Rodrigues won the Men’s Gold scoring the event’s highest heat total of 17.00 points. Rodrigues defeated Mitch Crews (AUS, 14.64), Vincent Duvignac (FRA, 12.43), and Connor O’Leary (AUS, 9.10)

More; Team Australia wins ISA China Cup 2013

http://www.flickr.com//photos/45487607@N05/sets/72157632622596261/show/

Armel Le Cléac’h, Banque Populaire, second of the 2012-2013 Vendée Globe

Armel Le Cléac’h crossed the Vendée Globe finish line Sunday 27th January 2013 at 17 hour 35 min 52 seconds GMT. He finishes the race 78 days 5 hours and 33 minutes behind François Gabart. This is the smallest gap between the winner and the second in the Vendée Globe history, a mere 3 hours 17minutes 12 seconds behind Gabart.

His final race time is 78 days 5 hours 35 min 52 seconds. His average speed was 14.9 knots and he actually covered 28,056.55 miles. Note: the race’s theoretical distance was 24,394 miles.
Second To None

François Gabart, MACIF, winner of the 2012-2013 Vendée Globe

January 27, 2013

François Gabart, MACIF, winner of the 2012-2013 Vendée Globe

François Gabart crossed the Vendée Globe finish line at 15 hours 18 minutes 40 seconds, French time, setting a new solo round-the-world record of 78 day, 2 hours, 16 minutes and 40 seconds. Beating Michel Desjoyeaux’s record by 6 day 00 hours 53 minutes
His final race time is 78 days 2 hours 16 minutes 40 seconds. His average speed was 15.3 knots and covering 28,646.55 miles.

Note: the race’s theoretical distance is 24,393.41 miles.

Gabart Crossed the Finish Line to Win the 2012-13 Vendée Globe

François Gabart crossed the Vendée Globe finish line at 15 hours 8 min 40 seconds, French time, setting a new solo round-the-world record of 78 days, 2 hours and 16 minutes 40 seconds.

2012 APBA Hall of Champions

After a long, hot and competitive racing season, the American Power Boat Association is pleased to announce the names of 18 recipients who were honored January 26^th in Dallas, Texas at the 39^th Annual Hall of Champions Banquet.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, The End Is Nigh

Fleet News: Gabart ETA 0930 GMT
Thomson heading to the finish Bossiéres crosses the Equator

Fleet News
Today, Sunday, January 27, 2013, the world of sailing and yacht racing is preparing for a historic moment. For the first time, two men solo, nonstop and without assistance, will sail around the world in less than 80 days. The legendary duel between François Gabart (MACIF) and Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) which has raged unabated since the 10th November will finally be concluded.

What sprint! After less than 78 days at sea, François Gabart (MACIF) is expected to arrive at the finish line is Les Sables d'Olonne, around 09.30 GMT, a world record breaking race, sailed at breakneck pace. The last 24 hours is no exception as François Gabart (MACIF) puts his foot down in south-westerly wind of 30 knots and has covered 450 miles in the last 24 hours, averaging 18.5 knots.

93 miles behind, Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) is even faster, reaching a top speed of 20 knots and covering 460 miles. It’s fast to the last.

The two men will soon enter another world; parties, media requests, emotional reunions, the ground solid under foot and more importantly steak and chips, for Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) at least. François Gabart’s (MACIF) first meal on land is yet to be revealed.

BANZAI PIPELINE: Surfing’s Alpha and Omega Lights Up for Volcom Pipe Pro

NORTH SHORE, Oahu, Hawaii (Friday, January 25, 2013) – The 2013 ASP World Tour officially begins anew on Sunday, on the very same stretch of surf and sand that the 2012 World Tour wrapped up on six weeks ago: the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii.

The waiting period for the Volcom Pipe Pro Begins Sunday, January 27!

The $130,000 VOLCOM PIPE PRO – a 5-star rated event that will run on the four best days of surf from January 27-February 7, represents the beginning of the 2013 campaign trail for surfers aspiring to the sport’s elite ranks. It will also award eight local surfers with coveted spots in the season-ending Pipe Masters. Equally revered and feared, the Banzai Pipeline is the ultimate make-or-break location in the world of surfing, for careers, bodies, and surfboards.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Day 76 - The Spirit of Sportmanship

Breaking News

Sunday 26th January, François Gabart (MACIF) Vendée Globe is expected to cross the finish line between 10AM and 1PM, 2 to 5 hours before Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire). The tide will allow the boats to enter the canal to Port Olona, Les Sables d’Olonne after 2PM.

Spectator boats and press boats will not be leaving the port.

There is a heavy weather warning due to high seas, 3 metre waves and winds of 20-25 knots with peaks at 35/40 knots. The maritime authorities and local administration have prohibited pleasure boats from leaving the port of Les Sables d'Olonne from 7am Sunday 27th January.

Exceptions to the rule are the committee boat (to judge the finish) and two broadcast and photography support boats of the organisation. Offshore sailing is not prohibited, but it is firmly discouraged.

Vendée Globe LIVE for Sunday 27th January will be a live commentary of the finish, starting half an hour before the winner crosses the line. LIVE press conferences with the skippers will be broadcast after the finish. Please visit the website or web channel Daily Motion for the latest information.

Fleet News
Leading duo expected tomorrow

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Thomson the Shadow in Third

Fleet News Thomson moves into third position
The final day at sea Wavre approaches the Equator

Fleet News

At 130 miles south-west of the Azores, Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) has adjusted his course to be closer to Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac Paprec 3) who he has overtaken this morning. Dick is around 40 miles to the east of Thomson, and has succeeded so far, despite the total loss of the keel, to progress without too much difficulty, in weather conditions, which are now building.  The wind rise to 25 -30 knots from the southwest could make the effects of this damage much more complicated to manage.

The sportsmanlike gesture of Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) is welcomed and applauded by many. It demonstrates the true solidarity of the fleet. Solo sailors may endure solitude in the middle of the ocean but learn in the face of adversity that their co-sailors have got their back. The history of the Vendée Globe is heralded with these heroic moments that shape’s its character. When the opponent falls foul to the vagaries of incident and their competitor gallantly comes to the rescue. Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) of his own volition is on standby while Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac Paprec 3) learns how to handle and manage his 60ft Open 60 dinghy. He continues to make good progress and has said that he will make his final decision on Sunday.

Quantum Key West 2103, 52 SUPER SERIES Champions Azzurra win at Key West

Given that the final day of Quantum Key West 2103 started with the two top teams Azzurra and Rán Racing tied on points it is appropriate the overall winner emerged after the most dramatic and closest day of racing. Whilst errors and bad luck afflicted several key teams in the brisk breezes delivering a great last day finale, it was the defending 52 SUPER SERIES champions Azzurra who kept it tight on board and sailed smart for the 2012 champions to open their 2013 account with the regatta victory.

Azzurra's Key West Regatta starter was lobster, their second course humble pie but they finished with champagne. 

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Day 75 - Thomson Ready To Help

Breaking News
The race village in Les Sables d’Olonne officially opened today. It is open everyday from 10am – 7pm. The first skipper is expected to cross the finish line between 5am – 11am Sunday 27th January.

Bruno Retailleau (SAEM Vendée President) “Today, I have a special thought for all the skippers who are still in the race, those who had to abandon but also those who competed in the previous editions. These sailors all contributed to the amazing Vendée Globe legend. We have had a fascinating race with moments of joy, happiness, and sadness.”

Fleet News
Thomson hopes Dick finds a way
Teams Macif and Banque Populaire on tenterhooks
Gabart focused on the end goal

Fleet News
It was a magnanimous Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) that spoke today on the English version of the Vendée Globe LIVE, who is expected to move into third place tonight. At the 1500 UTC ranking today, only 16 miles separated him for Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac Paprec 3)

Adrenaline fueled pictures of the Mavericks Invitational 2012-2013

The Mavericks big wave surf contest is always an eye-catching show. From the colored jerseys to the steep rides on the face of walls of water, the Mavericks Invitational would attract those who even never surfed a wave.

Adrenaline fueled pictures of the Mavericks Invitational 2012-2013: Take a look at the best pictures from the Mavericks Invitational 2012-2013. The next swell is already in the making.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Day 76 - Hurtling Home

Fleet News: The final sprint
Alex Thomson third in sight Le Cam and Golding in the northern hemisphere
It's been fun but the time is coming, to bring down the final curtain and move along because the home strait sprint has begun. This morning, the two race leaders passed the symbolic 1000 miles point from Les Sables d'Olonne, the start and finish of the solo race around our beautiful planet.

Doing between 15 and 17 knots throughout the night in a west wind of 20 knots, François Gabart (MACIF) has a tight grip on the lead in the seventh Vendée Globe, Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) slight gains overnight are not significant enough to dent the 101 mile lead of the ‘Goldenboy’ Gabart. Both sailing on a port tack they have one last gybe to make before they sail directly home. Gabart will turn in the morning and Le Cléac'h around four hours later. The new arrival time for the first boat is now Sunday January 27 at 3 am.

Waterman, Archie Kalepa

Honolua Surf Co.
Known as a legendary big-wave surfer, Archie is an accomplished waterman who is one of a handful of men able to successfully tow surf the enormous waves that break on Maui’s north shore every winter. He was runner up for the prestigious Billabong Global XXL Big Wave awards.

Read more; Archie Kalepa

Quantum Key West Race Week - Azzurra still hold the tie break edge

After two more great races for the 52 SUPER SERIES at Quantum Key West 2013 the top two boats Azzurra and Rán Racing still remain tied on the same points aggregate. Alberto Roemmers’ Azzurra team which flies the colours of the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda still just hold the edge overall but on the strength of countback, having now won three races.

In the same type of puffy, shifty offshore breeze of 13-18kts which also produced challenging racing Wednesday, Thursday’s notable improvement in the conditions was merely that the sun shone longer and stronger. Azzurra paired an outstanding win in Race 7 with a fourth place from Race 8 that allowed the iconic team which holds the 52 SUPER SERIES title to keep Niklas Zennström’s Rán Racing only just in check going into Friday’s final two scheduled races.

In turn the Zennström crew kept the pressure on Azzurra with their second place in the first race and then they got the better of the champions in a straight head to head match race up the final beat for third and fourth in Race 8.

Kelly Slater Interview - Quiksilver In Memory Of Eddie Aikau 2012-13

In our ongoing series of invitee interviews, hear what Kelly Slater, Mark Healey, Shane Dorian, & Dave Wassel have to say on being invited to and what makes The Eddie so special.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race. Carry On Keel-less

Fleet News
Jean Pierre Dick decision Sunday
Macif and Banque Populaire teams arrive in Les Sables d’Olonne
Golding crosses Equator for 6th time
Tanguy saves another child

Fleet News
Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac Paprec 3) today on the French version of Vendée Globe LIVE explained his predicament. “I’m in the high, so there’s only 12-13 knots of wind, in a situation that’s not easy for a boat without her keel. I can’t use large sails but the ballasts are full to keep some stability. I’ve talked to Bilou and Marc Guillemot, who had to experience the same situation in the past. Of course, I’d go faster if I had a keel but right now, I’m not thinking too much about my third place.

I’ll see if I can finish the race, if the conditions allow, but I can’t take too much risk for myself, or for the boat. I should sail off the Azores coast around the 27th, there should be around 25 knots of westerly wind there and that will help me see how the boat is doing when the sea and the wind are tougher. Then I’ll try to make the right decision based on those elements and some people’s opinions. So let’s wait until the 27th.

Sometimes I feel like I’m windsurfing, you need to completely change the way you work on the boat. I’ve talked to some boat designers who told me about the calculations they had made, helping me choose what to do and what kind of sail to use. Also, because I’ve had hook issues, I don’t want to use big sails because if they get stuck, the boat would capsize without her keel, and I would end up stuck inside my boat like Jean Le Cam in the last edition.”

Quantum Key West is the 52 SUPER SERIES’ Tie Break City

Top scoring boat across a great two-race day for the 52 SUPER SERIES at Quantum Key West, Azzurra have edged to the top of the leader board. But just as Quantum Racing and Rán Racing have done before them, their overall lead is only by virtue of tie break.

Azzurra’s two second places in fantastic, puffy, shifty 14-20kts winds accompanied by improving warm sunshine, overturned the previous tie break that they had been in with Rán Racing. After six races of the ten which are scheduled for the 52 SUPER SERIES at this showcase North American regatta, the top duo have a 16pts aggregate, two better than Quantum Racing whose 1,4 for the day could not improve their third place overall.

Top Sailors Embark on Miami for 2013 Sailing World Cup

Miami, Fla., USA (January 23, 2013) – An impressive collection of the best Olympic and Paralympic class sailors in the world will take their talents to Biscayne Bay in the second of four stops of the 2012-2013 ISAF Sailing World Cup. Racing at this world class five-day regatta begins on Monday, January 28 and concludes Saturday, February 2. Over 300 sailors representing 35 countries are expected to participate.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, A Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Fleet News: The Cléac'h steals back precious miles
Dick still third Ecuador tonight for Cam and Golding

It is difficult to know for sure what is really happening in the minds of the leading duo. One thing is certain the battle will be bitter to the end. Just over 1200 miles from the finish at Les Sables d'Olonne, the suspense is gripping in the final strait of the 7th edition of the Vendée Globe. On paper yesterday it looked like this morning François Gabart (MACIF) in the heart of the Azores archipelago, between the island of Tercera and San Miguel, would begin to charge ahead by reaching first the stronger winds from the southwest to whisk him back at a brisk pace to the Vendée.

Yet it is Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) who was the fastest overnight. The skipper of Banque Populaire, remains focused on the most direct route and has managed to claw back the miles he lost yesterday. He is slightly south and is 88 miles behind François Gabart (MACIF) in a south-westerly wind of around twenty knots, which is expected to push forward the two skippers until at least La Coruña, Spain. The pressure is on Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) to avoid any mistakes and to be vigilant at all times. Two gifted, bright hungry young sailors battle virtually neck and neck. They both have the advantage of being on the ground and experiencing the actual weather conditions. The weather files can only guide us and they don’t always accurately depict the conditions the skippers are enduring. The most accurate way to forecast the weather is to go outside and see if for yourself and of course, that is something only they can do.

The final days of the Vendée Globe are proving to be a nail biting duel between the gifted, ‘Goldenboy’ Gabart and his pretender, a challenger, called ‘The Jackal’ equally talented and famous for his incredible toughness. Like a cat on a hot tin roof the suspense will grip us to the very end.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race. Will He Won’t He?

Breaking News
Gabart ETA this weekend

Fleet News
Jean Pierre Dick still racing
Winner’s weekend
Sanso without wind instruments

Breaking News
The fleet leaders are expected to arrive in Les Sables d’Olonne, Vendée, France either Saturday evening, or Sunday morning. Please visit the website for regular updates. The current plan is that the first three boats crossing the finish line and making their way down the canal will receive LIVE coverage on the Vendée Globe web TV channel hosted by Daily Motion.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Day 74 - What A Difference A Day Made

Fleet News:
- Gabart takes the lead
- Jean Pierre Dick limps along
- Equator two days away for Le Cam and Golding

François Gabart (MACIF) in his epistle last night to the race HQ explained that his journey through the centre of the Azores High was wrapped in a beautiful rainbow. The young pretender and race leader has elected to sail around the edge of the high, which should enable him to reach the northern ridge as quickly as possible and gather momentum once again
This is the final hurdle before the tempestuous Bay of Biscay and the final strait into the race finish at Les Sables d’Olonne. The current ETA sees the first two arriving late Saturday night, Sunday morning.

Northern Morocco, on the latitude of Rabat, the south westerly wind blow 10-15 knots this will provide François Gabart (MACIF) with a perfect angle to optimize his boat. For sometime now the leader sails faster and directly to the finish line than than his unrelenting competitor Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire). The gap widens overnight who must be gritting his teeth and pushing forward in lighter southwesterly winds of 8-10 knots. It was 85 miles yesterday but this morning the distance extended to almost 120 miles. Not a massive gap but one that is expected to increase further when François Gabart (MACIF) picks up speed once he is free of the grip of the high.

Volvo Ocean Race, Itajaí confirmed on 2014-15 route as second Brazilianstop

Itajaí will once again be a Host Port for the Race in 2014-15 following the huge success of the stopover there in the last edition. Brazil will have two stops along the route for the 12th edition of the round-the-world race.

Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012 | Itajaí confirmed on 2014-15 route as second Brazilian stop

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Dick Weighs Options as Golding Calls forForged Steel Keels

Top Story:
Jean-Pierre Dick has not abandoned.
Golding says new rule needed
Thomson expresses sympathy and shock

Fleet News:
Gabart halts gains by Le Cléac’h
Le Cam battles past Golding (again)

Top Story:
Despite losing his keel with 2,000 miles to the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac-Paprec 3) has not abandoned and is working out what to do next. “The competitor and the sailor do not agree,” Dick said. “Should I continue in a degraded state or abandon and go and hide in the Azores.”

2013 Whitewater Kayaking Competition Season is underway- Mexico Creek Racing- Alseseca Race- Veracruz- Karma report

It is winter time in the Northern Hemisphere, but here in Veracruz we are so far south that winter is like a mild summer day in TN. Highs in the 80’s, lows in the 60’s- a mix of sun and clouds most days. However this is like a cloud forest area and the fog comes in fast and heavy at times. It will be sunny and clear in Tlapacoyan and by the time you get up to the put in a heavy fog could easily be covering everything making it darker and kind of eery looking, but also adds to the magic of the place. Yesterday, however, was a crystal clear day, the first of 2013, and it was race day.

Read more; 2013 Whitewater Kayaking Competition Season is underway- Mexico Creek Racing- Alseseca Race- Veracruz- Karma report

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Broken Dreams as Dick loses keel

With a third place finish in the Vendée Globe apparently almost guaranteed, Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac-Paprec 3) heard his dream break with an abrupt bang before midnight on Monday night as Virbac Paprec 3 lost her keel with just over 2,000 of the 28,000 mile race left.

With a squall coming there was a great risk of capsize after losing the four tonne keel (providing approximately half the weight of the boat and most of its stability) and it took all the experience and expertise of the 47-year-old skipper to avoid the worst.

He managed to ease the pressure on the sails, turn the boat running downwind and fully fill the ballast tanks to stabilise the boat. The immediate danger has passed but he is still very vulnerable.

Legendary Waterman, Mark Cunningham - Lifeguard, Body Surfer Extraordinaire, and Environmentalist

Mark Cunningham image - Honolulu Star-Bulletin

I had the pleasure of recently meeting legendary waterman and bodysurfer Mark Cunningham at Surf Expo in Orlando while in the DaFin booth. A soft spoken, tall and fit man, Mark ended his stellar 30-year Hawaiian lifeguard career in 2005, most of which was spent on the North Shore of Oahu with a very special breed of watermen. His list of former work colleagues is a veritable “who’s who” of Hawaiian surfing lore: Buffalo Keaulana, Eddie Aikau, Darrick Doerner, Rell Sunn and Tiger Espere. And while Cunningham himself has achieved legendary status, he’s done so in quite a different way. Aside from being the man who spent most of his days on the tower at Ehukai Beach Park, a.k.a. Pipeline, he’s earned a solid reputation as one of the world’s extraordinaire bodysurfers.

Now he has committed himself to promoting the “Keep the Country Country” and other causes such as “Defend Oahu Coalition” A man well respected throughout Hawaii for being a true waterman!

Be sure to check out Mark's amazing new movie about bodysurfing “Come Hell or High Water” with awesome scenes filmed at The Wedge, Pipeline, Teahupoo, Waimea Bay and more.

Looking back on 2011-2012 America's Cup World Series - 73 AC Discovered

This week on America's Cup Discovered we take a look back on a momentous 2012 America's Cup World Series. There were highs, lows, intense rivalries, shut out starts, thrilling finishes, and epic capsizes.

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Closest finish in Vendée Globe history possible

Top Story

Le Cléac’h closes on Gabart in Azores
Finish could be closer than 2004-05

Fleet News:

Thomson cannot see route to third
Jean-Pierre Dick still looking ahead and behind
Two Britons in the top five
Di Benedetto recovering

Top Story:

Armel Le Cléac’h (Banque Populaire) continues to close on Francois Gabart (MACIF) as they slow in the Azores high. If the race continues as forecast, always easier on paper, Gabart will cross the line first late on January 26 or in the early hours of January 27 and could be as little as six hours ahead of Le Cléac’h, which would be the closest finish in Vendée history. It would beat the finish to the 2004-05 Vendée Globe when Vincent Riou beat Jean Le Cam by 6 hours and 33 minutes.
The low-pressure system, bringing 25-30 knots westerlies, looks stable from the Bay of Biscay to the finish, but Gabart may well decide to stay close and mark Le Cléac’h rather than simply take the fastest route. It promises to be a tense finish either way and if they or Le Cléach, particularly, is delayed until the evening of January 27, a storm could make the finish one of the most torrid ever.

At the 1500 UTC ranking Le Cléac’h was 117.7 miles behind Gabart, but the gains will continue as Gabart is into the Azores high first. Gabart was still averaging 9.6 knots in the last hour, but Le Cléach was making 13 knots. The memory of the Doldrums, where Gabart’s stumbled for one of the few times in the whole race, will be fresh in the memory. Le Cléac’h managed to make up around 150 miles on Gabart and although the Azores are far more predictable, luck may still play a part.

Chattahoochee Write Up For 2013

Jackson Kayak - Posted by Hunter Katich, 20/01/2013

For an optimal training and learning environment, no matter what your skill level, come paddle with me here at the Chattahoochee River in Columbus, GA. There is something for everyone! I’ve paddled the Chattahoochee for many years, and the changes that are being made are incredible! During the past year, this amazing river has been under construction to become the longest urban 2.5mile whitewater course in the world. If you’re a play boater then this river is a paradise for you! A normal day for me on the water includes an awesome feature, great for every hole trick in the book. When the bottom pool fills up and the feature washes, I go up above the biggest rapid on the river, Cutbait, where two big waves stand. These back to back waves, “Clicket-or-Ticket” and “Interstate” are about 6 to 10 foot standing waves (depending on the flow) and are perfect for almost every trick performed on a wave! To top it all off you can go big and take your chances on punching one of the biggest holes in the South East, “Cutbait hole”. The rapid is named Cutbait for a reason, so scout it out before charging down blindly.

Read More; Chattahoochee Write Up For 2013

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Up The Mast Again

Top Story:

- Di Benedetto forced into second dangerous climb after spinnaker loss

Fleet News:
- Virbac-Paprec on the charge
- The Unfortunate Five
- Best at the back

Jean-Pierre Dick (Virbac-Paprec 3) remained the fastest in the fleet, drawing closer to the leading two, whilst being tailed closely by Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss). But there was a reminder at the back of how sudden damage can change the picture as Alessandro Di Benedetto (Team Plastique) was forced into a second trip up the mast in as many days following the loss of a new headsail.

Di Benedetto had already lost the use of his gennaker, after going up the mast over the weekend to assess the halyard failure, when  last night he ripped his spinnaker. It will have been enough to test  even the bright spirit of the indomitable Franco-Italian skipper. It meant another dangerous climb 100ft in air on a heaving mast, in unsavoury wind and sea conditions for this kind of exercise – never savoury, especially alone. 500 miles northeast of the Falklands Islands, with 20-22 knot southwesterlies behind him, he spent two hours in the air to release the spinnaker halyard.

Di Benedetto said he was knocked around a lot during his climb but is fortunately not injured. His speeds may be for some time though without his two big sails and he was making just seven knots in the last hour.

Peter Mel wins 2013 Mavericks Invitational Big-Wave Surf Championship

Peter Mel, of Santa Cruz, celebrates winning the 2012-2013 Mavericks Invitational

Lars Howlett / Mavericks Invitational

 

20 January, Half Moon Bay, CA —Peter Mel celebrated a long awaited victory on Sunday: A Mavericks big-wave championship title.

The La Selva Beach native and veteran Santa Cruz surfer was emotional while holding up his surfboard trophy and soaking in the realization that he had just won the final round of the 2013 Mavericks Invitational.

Alex Martins shredded into 2nd place while smooth, mechanicaly-flawless rider Greg Long clinched 3rd. Santa Cruz' Zach Wormhoudt placed 4th, Mark Healey came in 5th, and Shawn Dollar of Santa Cruz placed 6th.

Mel was won of the oldest surfers in the lineup and one of 10 surfers from Santa Cruz that competed.

Thousands of spectators flocked to a festival outside the Oceano Hotel in Half Moon Bay to watch 24 of the world’s most elite big-wave surfers compete. Tickets were already sold-out by 9 a.m.

More; http://mavericksinvitational.com/

Vendee Globe Ocean Race, Day 71 - “Worst South Atlantic ever” sees Golding Facing Power Pressure

 

Top Story  - Golding says five-day delay has put the squeeze on

Fleet News:
Left hook to Les Sables
Earlier finish on January 26 predicted
Gabart and Le Cléac’h – no more chit-chat
Wavre extends over Sansó
Di Benedetto loses gennaker

Top Story:

The toughest South Atlantic that any of the skippers stuck in it can remember is beginning to turn the screw on supplies. Being dropped by a fickle wind or battered by a north one is one thing, but sixth-placed Mike Golding (Gamesa) has revealed that just having enough to run his auto-pilots in the busy shipping lanes for the finish is increasingly becoming a worry.

“We are looking at 5 days added to the route, potentially, by the problems in the South Atlantic,” Golding, who has 4310 miles to the finish, told Vendee Globe TV. “That puts extra pressure on everything – fuel, food, and this has been a very hard period for the boat as well; going upwind in strong breeze, fully ballasted puts extra pressure on the boat.

“Things have not been easy as we have not had hydro generators since the Southern Ocean. While we did load some fuel, we had a plan that covered a lot of bases – we have hydro, solar and fuel – we tried to cover our options. However, trying to predict our fuel usage from the beginning of Southern Ocean to the current point has been very difficult and now we are very low on fuel. So yes, pretty nerve-racking.”