Quick Reactions and Good Balance Can Make a Better Stand Up Paddler by Suzie Cooney of Suzie Trains Maui
Whether you surf the big waves of Maui’s North Shore or touring the beautiful channels and waterways of Jupiter, Florida, or on Lake Tahoe, it’s known that if you have good balance and can respond quickly to changing water conditions or obstacles that can come in your path; better chances for a more enjoyable SUP session.
Time and time again I’ve had to call upon some of the tiniest muscles, to fire fast and respond to get me out of trouble or to dodge a turtle on the same wave! I’ve also encountered large pieces of floating debris, strange breaking waves, or other people in my line that I had to have quick reaction times and good balance for recovery to get my footing back.
As a trainer and water sports enthusiast, I’ve always encouraged the importance of trying to mimic similar conditions in your workout program on land. You can keep it really simple or add some fun equipment too.
To me, balance training is like brain training. Without getting too technical, it’s like adding a few more wires to our brain or panels so you’re ready for anything. One technical term I will use is called neuromuscular training. The definition simply means selecting specific exercises that are very specific to increase one’s performance, and trigger the appropriate actions to allow your nervous system to operate and perform functionally at its maximal level.
Your eyes, core, and all of the muscles connected to your central nervous system have an important role to quickly gather information, route it to the right department and fire away. Ever had the feeling like you’re moving in slow motion while during a serious wipe out? I have. It’s the strangest feeling. I’m not sure I’m fond of it and I try really hard to have cat like reactions and excellent balance to avoid that.
Stand up paddling, as simple as it looks does in fact require a little balance when you’re beginning and as you advance. When you’re learning, you’re so busy turning the paddle in the right direction, looking at the horizon and more than likely, gripping the deck with every single muscle in your foot, leading to early fatigue.
Once you’re up and gliding there’s not much to it. But, as you step into your first wave or go down in the size of your board, you may discover you need a little better balance or to retrain your brain to learn again.
Next time you’re in the gym or in your own home gym, start practicing a couple balance techniques to keep your brain and muscles fine tuned.
Equipment: The BOSU, INDO Board, my KIALOA paddle and an 8lb medicine ball or 12 -15lb body bar.
These are advanced moves, so start out slowly and progress safely:
1. BOSU, dome side down with paddle, medicine ball or body bar:
I’ve actually taken a bit of sand paper to roughen up the plastic side of my BOSUs to aid in traction, or have sand on my feet! I recommend barefoot so you can really get the feel of the movements of the BOSU. Step on safely, feet parallel to the plug, posture nice and tall, relaxed looking ahead. Take your paddle, medicine ball or body bar and start to paddle 2 strokes each side. Switch off to mix it up. As you move your arms out and to the side, notice how sensitive the BOSU becomes. I like to try and go to fatigue or until my legs scream!
2. INDO Board on top of dome of BOSU: see photo up topPlace the INDO Board itself on top of the dome of the BOSU. I like to have a little less board off the back to I can really pretend I’m heading down the line. Or if you’re more comfortable to start, place the INDO board so it’s nicely balanced in the center. Change it up. You can place your feet side by side as if you’re cruising and do it that way, or if you’re charging some waves, assume the surf stance.
This time you’ll notice the added extra burn to your back carving leg at the same time looking ahead where you want to go, down the line.
Good balance for stand up paddling is key and important for many things we do in life. Next time you’re on the water, try paddling on one foot, or simply standing on one foot. In the gym, try kneeling on a stability ball for extra fun. Be sure to hang onto a sturdy object at first. Add more air to the stability ball to make it more challenging and fun.
Any questions about these exercises or to learn more, feel free to email me at Suzie@SuzieTrainsMaui.comor check out www.suzietrainsmaui.com and www.standuppaddlingfitness.com
Glide with good posture, react fast and paddle hard!
STAND UP For Women’s Health & Fitness at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, January 9, 2010 was
photo by Simone Reddingius
definitely the place to be! Although the pounding West swell did keep some on the beach, for those who braved the over head-high beach break, everyone went in smiling and came out smiling! No injuries to report, only two broken boards.
Congratulations to all the women who so bravely participated. These women water warriors earned their stripes today for sure!
photo by Nicole Sanchez
It was quite a site! The beach covered with boards, groovy music; the buzz and adrenaline was everywhere. Besides the beautiful back drop of the waters of Maui with whale spouts appearing now and then, women of all ages from all over the globe were about to partake in a worthy cause to support women’s health and STAND UP to breast cancer. Since this was a FREE event, donations were and are encouraged through our website to support the American Breast Cancer Foundation.
Early before dawn, the army of volunteers, retail shops and sponsors appeared. Flags in the sand, tables up, tents up, and then the stage! Soon a sea of eager smiles with boards and paddles in hand began to appear, ready for a day of adventure and fun. The thought on everyone’s mind with the over head-high beach break was..” hmm this should be interesting!”
Photo by Nicole Sanchez
The day began with a beautiful blessing, delivered by Maui’s own Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaialii Jr. His words and heartfelt grace touched everyone and assured our day to be peaceful and safe.
photo by Nicole Sanchez
photo Nicole Sanchez
photo by Simone Reddingius
Groovy tunes by DJ DEL SOL and DJ CIA brought the women to a state of bliss as I prepared them for some dynamic stretching, light core work and modiefied strength training,
We were really fortunate to have Tiare Lawrence, C4’s pro rider who happens to be due any day with a
photo by nicole sanchez
new baby girl, come up on stage and do her paddle instruction and tell us why the ocean and stand up paddling is so important to her. She didn’t answer her cell phone today, so maybe her daughter has come!
With such a strong West swell, the beach was peeling fast with a huge over head-high beach break all the way across, and rolling swells behind it! At least 7-8 waves per set coming through with only small lulls in between and forget a safety channel. Nail biting, knee knocking for some and rightly so. Just in case we were fortunate to have on the waters as our safety patrol, North Shore Explorers that had a team of Clay Everline,MD. Mike Adrian to shoot the day and Chris and Todd as the captains.
Harry Donenfeld News correspondent of Harry Thankyou TV, geared up to get some fun water shots see below!
photo by Nicole Sanchez
photo by Simone Reddingius
Loch Eggers, big wave surfer and water safety specialist, made sure that safety was in the forefront of everyone’s mind. His team of board caddies, which included Milton, who tows from a helicopter; Robby Funk, Carlos M, Chris W, Bruce and Larry from Paia, Ian H, John and Michael Leake, Gary Tuttle, Ironman Phil McGain, Joel Edwards,Mark H, Jon Graham,
photo by Simone Reddingius
Dennis O, Lenny Cappe,
Phik McGain photo by Simone Reddingius
hero caddie by Simone Reddingius
Kevin Hager from Hawaiian Island Surf, Jeff from Big Kahuna, Ralf Sifford’s team from Second Wind, Nitzan and Dave from Naish and so many more heros made the day safe. Common sense, fast thinking and timing was critical. On the beach was Dr. Rick Sands and on the boat, Clay Everline, MD.
Teri, who held the front line in the registration tent writes, “It was truly an inspiring event and I am honored to have played even just a small part in this and would gladly volunteer again! The conditions were scary for beginners however the CADDIES rock as they made it all so much easier by being so on it. I sincerely congratulate the team for no injuries and for making it so safe! The DJs kept the party going and kept it happening!”
photo by Mike Adrian
Three paddle groups went out in stages. First group was the advanced group led by Starboard team rider, Anne-Marie Reichman. Down the south coast they went towards Makena and the small island of Molokini. I’m told that whales were spotted on their tour. Second group out, was mine. Beginner and intermediate as we went up towards Kihei. The water was pretty calm for the most part, with light variable winds.
The women had nice easy paddling styles.
photo by Mike Adrian
It was the time to push yourself a little and test your endurance. Last group out was our first timers. Wow, something they will never forget I’m sure. The pictures tell all.
The bay sweepers, which included the strong pro team rider for Starboard, Tiffany Ward
photo by Nicole
managed to calm the nerves of many and get them to their feet smiling. A big thank you to personal trainer, Anne Barnett of Haiku, water athlete Corrine, and another great instructor Jenny visiting from Big Island who works for Naish. Also on board to help, was Maui’s own Kalia Kelmenson, experienced water girl and personal trainer wrote, “My favorite moment of the day was paddling along next to a woman who was struggling a bit with her balance- I traded boards with her- she was so happy for that- come to find out she was from Rapanui, now living in Bora Bora- and I had such a great time chatting with her about one of my favorite places on the planet- French Polynesia- I got a terrific reminder about how small this world is, and the things that inspire us are consistent across cultures.”
photo by Simone Reddingius
After about an hour and a half or more of water time, refreshments provided by Recharge, Vita Coco, Sambazon, Guayaki and Luna Bar, along with fresh Maui grown fruit from Kula Fields were provided to help refuel. A big thank you to Snorkels for serving up some great turkey wraps and sandwhiches.
On stage next were three lovely inspirational guest speakers. Suki Halevi, a new resident to Maui who battles unseen neurologicial challenges, and who has conquered many physical obstacles through the sport of stand up paddling. Raw food specialist, Chef Susan Teton Campbell shared all her jewels about health and nutrition, and finally Rita Whitford not only a survivor to breast cancer, but has also survived colon and skin cancer. A delightful trio of women who opened their hearts and inspired many to stay healthy and be aware of their bodies.
By now everyone was ready to learn to hula. Wilmont brought along two lovely and beautiful Maui professional hula dancers to wow the crowd. Even the men on the beach joined in. Who said men can’t hula? Wilmont played his 12 string guiatar has he led the beach into histarics and giggles while we were moving to the tropical rythm. You should have seen Chris Wurtele from Haiku swaying his hips back and forth! Fun had by all.
Finally, to wind down the day the moment everyone had been waiting for, the amazing prize raffle.
photo by Simone Reddingius
Tommy worked very hard for many months to gather a huge amount of prizes to please everyone. After tossing a tub of Maui Jim t-shirts, towels and Recharge frisbees into the crowd,
photo Simone Reddingius
the big prizes were now up for many lucky winners. From a cool IndoBoard training board, to Kaenon sunglasses, a new 2010 “Pipes” Kialoa carbon fiber paddle, gift certificates from Athleta, a killer basket of Love Inside Out beauty products, to a dinner for two at The Four Seasons Resort restaurant, Ferraro’s Bar E Ristorante.
photo by Simone Reddingius
The grand prize, a spicy 9′8″ Starboard stand up paddle board was won by Elle who came to the event from Los Angeles. She wrote to the president of Starboard, “I cannot thank you enough for donating an SUP board to the STAND UP FOR WOMEN’S FITNESS event this past Saturday in Maui that Suzie Cooney and Tom Callan organized. I was jumping for joy when I won the grand prize…I couldn’t believe it! The event was amazing and inspiring to all – Wailea beach was packed with women of all ages and SUP levels…every participant I spoke with had a wonderful time. I flew out from Los Angeles for the event with a friend of mine and we loved it.
Suzie and Tom ran the event seamlessly – it appeared as though the event was in it’s 10th year with how organized and smoothly everything flowed. I was extremely impressed at their professionalism and I imagine that this event will become an annual tradition on Maui and hopefully elsewhere. Suzie and Tom were so gracious and patient with all of the volunteers and participants. I believe I can speak for everyone at the event when I say that Suzie is extremely inspiring to women. Everyone left Wailea beach with a smile, a new or re-ignited love for SUP, a greater passion for fitness and health, and an awareness for breast cancer.” Thanks Elle!
Well, as the emails and photos pour in, there is much to share and do. Tommy and I would like to thank the community of Maui, the amazing team at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, our dear friends and volunteers, sponsors and those who traveled from far away places to contribute to such an inspiring, contagious day of joy and health. New friends were made, water fears conquered and we all discovered just how powerful one sport, that anyone can enjoy almost anywhere in the world; can bring such a dynamic group together for a good cause.
Keep the donations coming in! Stay tuned to this site for hundreds of more photos.
STAND UP for your health each and everyday. The ocean, our health and friendships are always free.
The threat of rain and thunder storms didn’t stop this group of wonderful gals for a fun early Saturday of SUP fun. We had quite the rowdy bunch where this time the giggles and laughs began on the beach and continued on the water. We even had a few waves. Dagmar dominated! The ab workout wasn’t as popular as I hoped, hmmm, but the paddle lunges were executed with excellent form and enthusiam!
STAND UP To Slim Down Saturdays are FREE to the women of Maui , who want to learn how to stand up paddle and have some fun staying healthy and fit. It’s supportive, encouraging and inspiring. You just never know who you might meet and who YOU might inspire.
Our Maui Girl SUP Team included: Regina, Rhonda, Emily, Dianna,Wendy, Joan, Kilee,Deanna, Roxanne, Simone, Valerie, The Famous Trisha Smith, Coco, Laura, Dagmar, Kilee, Synneve and Joann and Wendall from the Kihei Canoe Club, who cruised through on his one man! I so enjoyed meeting some new friends. See you all on the water! See you on the big day, January 9, 2010.
Enjoy these photos of friends having fun learning to SUP. Way to go girls!
Also, another thanks goes out to Deanna and Roxanne for being my sweepers!
Stayed tuned for the next FREE Sup clinic in December. What a great way to stay in shape during the holidays. Grab your paddle instead of a cup of egg nog!
Also, if you’re looking for a new paddle, check out the line up from Kialoa Paddles. I use their “Methane” model. It’s quick and the oval shaped shaft is very comfortable. Click here for more info.
If you or someone you know wants to pump it up, get a jump start to fitness, be healthy and strong, I’m here to help. Life changes don’t happen over night and it’s much more fun to have someone there to help you get there faster. So let’s have some fun, call me 283-2121 or e:Suzie@SuzieTrainsMaui.com
Water is an unstable element and it’s always moving. When you add any unstable element as a training platform, such as an Indo Board or an inflatable disc or maybe the BOSU, you increase the intensity and nueromuscular challenge of any exercise.
The traditional core plank is often employed by the Navy Seals as a suitable challenge and is harder than it appears. I often use it to measure a clients level of performance and endurance of their core. As a reminder the core is simply everything excluding your extremities and is where all movement begins. Having a strong core is critical for the sport of stand up paddling SUP, for it is what engages first and foremost as you initiate a smooth paddle stroke, whether catching a wave or simply gliding on a leisurely cruise.
A weak core may cause you to fatigue, muscle imbalances and reduce your overall performance. There are so many variations in which you can improve your core strength, but since we’re on the topic of stand up paddling fitness, try this one for fun one day. Make sure you are in deep enough water so you don’t wreck your fins.
Assume the traditional core position:
Start in the plank position with your forearms and toes on the board. Avoid clasping hands together
Keep your torso straight and rigid and your body in a straight line from ears to toes with no sagging or bending.
Draw in your belly button to the front of your spine
Your head is relaxed in a neutral position and you should be looking at the board.
Hold this position for 10 – 60 seconds to start
Keep breathing then lift one leg as your progression.
Hey if you fall off it’s just water! Have some fun.
If you have any questions about the above exercise feel free to contact me: Suzie@SuzieTrainsMaui.com
What a day we had yesterday! You guys were so wonderful!
Thank you so much for showing up with big smiles, big hearts and a willingness to get sandy and wet and conquer the day. I’m still playing in my mind some looks of fright, maybe a little concern, but those were soon washed away with giggles and sheer delight. Getting the boards on and off the car, everyone learned quickly that is part of the workout!
What was not expected yesterday, was hello.. a HIGH SURF ADVISORY! Professional surf photographer, Simone Reddingius was on hand to capture each exciting moment. Thanks Simone. Be sure to check out more of Simone’s work by clicking here.
After some stretching on the beach, some strength exercises and a water safety review, first out, Roxanne S and Paula. Roxanne charged the waves, Paula had her own mission.
As we made it past that wall of water, then the ocean subsided, as if it knew to give us a little moment of peace to gather our paddles, our courage and confidence and again.
The winds were calm and then water became like a magic carpet. The laughs and splashes were echoed across the bay. Everyone had their own little thing going on. Paula cruised to Lahaina and back, Deanna had an incredible look of determination and shrieked with laughter often, and then there was Valerie who decided to take her dance steps right off the nose of her board. I loved seeing the big smile on Maria’s face too. Maria, you are officially a water girl!
Sandi, what a great day! You were rock’n that board. I know you. You are stubborn and want it! Great job!
Suki, thank you for sharing that lovely moment with us all in the middle of the ocean. That was awesome. Who would ever think that you’d be on Maui, in the middle of the ocean on a SUP board cruising around with confidence and strength. It’s a far cry from NY City!
Then the real fun began! The surf came up and the swell was rolling underneath us. I knew it was time to head in. As we watched the swell for a safe point of entry, it kept shifting, eliminating our safe channel exit. I knew the winds were on the way and we had about 15 minutes to get back.
By now the waves were getting a little steep. (A big thanks to Roxanne for sweeping from behind to help as an escort.) Mission: get back to the beach safely. The waves were breaking further out this time and the sets were plenty and relentless. Instructions, ride that board like a cowgirl. Put to practice the water safety techniques we just learned, sit, lay back, and paddle in, or lay on your belly and glide in. To some the board behaved like a bucking pony, throwing from side to side then comes the lift, pitch and roll!
SUP Warrior, Roxanne T had it down. She knew what to do. We both got thrown and pitched. The first thing we did was relax. It’s just water and it will wash right over us. Breathe and hold your paddle up so the others can see they we are down, and then grab your leash webbing to control your board and keep you between the wave and the board! Bravo, well done! When the set was done, we hopped on our boards and cruised right in.
Then it was time for me to bring in the next one. Kilee learned quick to surf that board right in. She was graceful and elegant. She said, “I really don’t like this part..” Then to her surprise she was in, smiling from ear to ear! Great job girlfriend!
Rose, visiting from California, was hungry for the waves! That’s where the real workout begins. Go for it and don’t stop paddling! I think she’s hooked!
Now it’s Suki’s turn with the biggest, heaviest board and NO handle! We all wondered if Laird came with the board he made just to carry it in and out of the water. Maybe next time! Suki didn’t know it, but I saw this one wave coming right underneath and thought, okay I’m not going to tell her, we’re just going for it! I yelled, get your feet up, scoot back, lean back and paddle in Hawaii Five O style! She hooted and hollered all the way in. It only took us 10 minutes to get her board OUT of the water!!
I am so proud of each and every one of you. You all reached your personal goals and then some! I want you all to feel like you can conquer even the biggest waves on and off the water.
Thank you for making this first STAND UP to Slim Down Saturday one to remember! Let’s do it again!
Charles “Cas” Soma, MD. is a Maui waterman and serves our community as an excellent sports medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon. He knows first hand how the sport of SUP or stand up paddling can challenge the body. I enjoy referring my clients to him, for I know they’ll be back on the water right away with added knowledge and awareness of the importance of being strong and healthy.
In his first exerpt here, part one of a series of articles, Cas talks about the importance of warming up and other elements to be aware of as to prevent injuries often associated with SUP. This is a good and informative read.Thanks Cas for your contribution. See you on the next N. swell. Suzie!
STAND UP PADDLING SURFING MEDICINE
Charles “Cas” Soma, MD.
Maui, Hawaii
This is one in a series of articles addressing Sports Medicine and follow up aspects of stand up paddling. Many of us are recommitting ourselves into working out and have found that the reinvigorated Hawaiian sport of stand up paddle surfing is both fun and an excellent way for us to improve our fitness and body control by developing core strength, balance and cardiovascular fitness without breaking a sweat. After an hour on the water you really feel the physical and mental benefits, with less stress affecting your outlook on life, a soothing endorphin release, and nice sense of accomplishment in addition.
Buzzy Molokai to Oahu
Significant energy is expended is balancing oneself on the board. Your arms and trunk rotate with a cadence dependent on your mood and the size and direction of the ground swells and wind waves, angling for optimum distance between strokes and lots of little rides as you scoot down the coast toward your destination, where a towel, cold drink, and ride back to your original point of entry await. Exercise occurring during paddling with smooth rhythmic motion encourages rhythm and balanced development of the back and both the dominant and non-dominant sides.
At North Shore Orthopedics, we occasionally evaluate patients for stand up paddling musculoskeletal injuries of the lower extremity. The major problems have been caused in part because the surface deck if often covered with a thick rubber decking which causes the foot to be able to grip it quite tightly, and on falling, the knee or ankle will be injured. At least one recent tibia fracture was due to that mechanism. When falling, resist the temptation to grab for the board as you go down, as it can hurt you when you fall in an unplanned way at a peculiar angle, when holding a paddle and trying no to go too far from your board out in the ocean. It’s spooky out there sometimes, and always good to have a buddy with you and two are even better. Continue reading Stand Up Paddling Surfing Medicine
As you can see from some of my posts, I think using the Indo Board in my training sessions with people is really fun, challenging and raises a person’s confidence on and off the water. You don’t have to surf to enjoy the benefits of this great training tool. For years, I’ve put clients on the Indo Board post op bilateral hip and knee replacements, and those reentering fitness; to help improve their reaction skills and of course balance skills too. It’s also great for toning your legs.
It’s so fun to see their big smiles and looks of focus and determination. I often will time people to the point of fatigue or failure. Then we hop on again for more endurance drills. Putting a couple of dumbbells in your hands or kettle bells definitely add to the burn and fatigue AND challenge. I’m using a 10lb kettle bell in these photos.
You can easily modify in many different ways, the ways in which you progress yourself to more advanced moves. Always take caution as to the type of surface you perform on. For beginners, I’ll throw a yoga mat underneath the drum to slow it down a bit. Or, simply put the board on a disc for my more elderly clients, and then have them hold onto me or a very stable object.
It really makes a difference when you carve and as you push the rails or even on a windsurfer, or stand up paddle board. I can notice a huge transfer of control in strong or light winds and strength when I jibe into a turn, and when stand up paddling while trying to catch waves. I love it!
Post Race Interviews: Kody and father, Buzzy Kerbox share their race adventures, sunburns and smiles. These athletes are true competitors and humble waterman. Look out for Kody in the years to come! Looks like Victor and Zane had a great day too! The pictures are awesome. Nice to have your life long friends and ohana out there. Love the ones of the transitions! Buzzy’s interview to follow photo gallery.Suzie
Just as Buzzy and Kody were catching the ferry to Molokai, I was lucky to catch Buzzy today before they left, to see how they felt about Sunday’s race! Buzzy and Kody both answered a few questions about the big day! Here’s a few photos of Kody and Buzzy at the finish of the Maui’s last race this month: The Naish 4th Annual Maui Paddleboard Race
First, Kody. This is his first channel crossing at 15 years old, riding a 14′8″ produciton Starboard!
Kody Kerbox Molokai Channel Crossing Pre Race Interview:
Suzie: What challenges might you face?Do you feel you are trained enough and if yes, what is / are your strategy to overcome them?
Kody: The biggest challenge I will face is being extremely tired at the end of the race and having to work the hardest then. I think I am trained enough and I am just going to have to put everything I got and just know that it will be worth it in the end.
Suzie: Can you give me a snapshot of what you do train for an event like this?A typical training session?
Kody: To train like this you have to spend most your time paddling and keeping active. A typical training day would be paddling 1 or 2 10-mile runs, one straight after another.
Suzie: Who do you think this year, will give you the biggest run for your money?Who will you be keeping an eye on?
Kody: I am not sure everybody has been training really hard and they’re all super fast. I will be keeping an eye on one of my best friends Kai Lenny. He is doing it with Michi Scweiger and they are really fast, if we can keep up with them I will be super stoked.
Suzie: What will be the greatest thrill for you at the end of day?
Kody: Just knowing that I accomplished something great and had a good experience.
Buzzy Kerbox: Molokai Channel Crossing Pre Race Interview:
Suzie: What will be different in this race compared to last year? Buzzy: I will have a different partner this year 58 year old Victor Lopez. We will be riding my same F16 from last year. There are a lot more teams this year as the popularity of this sport grows. This will put us in the over 100 years combined division with Gerry Lopez, Victor’s brother.
Suzie: What challenges might you face? Do you feel you are trained enough and if yes, what is / are your strategy to overcome them?
Buzzy: The channel conditions are always a big challenge. I want windy, windy, windy but it looks like the forecast is for light winds. It means my surfing the swells will be more like non-stop paddling. It will be a lot more work and way less fun. So we will have to keep a steady pace and hope we get there sooner than later.
Suzie: Can you give me a snapshot of what you do train for an event like this? A typical training session? Buzzy: I paddle 3-4 times a week 10 miles a session. Then do double runs as race day approaches. Normally we have a good trade winds blowing and with my music playing the workouts are very enjoyable. Then I do some beach workouts with running and exercises.
Suzie: Who do you think this year, will give you the biggest run for your money? Who will you be keeping an eye on? Buzzy: There are so many fast teams, not sure who will be near us. I will be keeping an eye on any team close enough in front of us to try and catch.
Suzie: What will be the greatest thrill for you at the end of day? Buzzy: Knowing that it is over and I can then relax and drink a cold beer and knowing that my son just did his first channel crossing.
Check out Buzzy’s cool site: www.kerbox.com
Buzzy and Kody, we all wish you a great day of racing and fun. Hopefully the conditions will be on your side, and the winds pick up a bit.
I’m sure you’re both looking forward to a big party on the other end, and Kristin is a proud wife and mom! Send some photos! Thanks for inspiring so many. Suzie Cooney
Quick Reactions and Good Balance Can Make a Better Stand Up Paddler by Suzie Cooney of Suzie Trains Maui
1. BOSU, dome side down with paddle, medicine ball or body bar:
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Category: Articles, Quick Fitness Tips | 
Tags: Athleta, Athleta Featured Athletes 2010, balance training, BOSU, core strength, cross-training, INDO Board, KIALOA Paddles, Maui personal trainer, Maui SUP conditioning, muscle stabilization, nervous system, Quick Fitness Tips, Stand Up Paddle, Stand Up Paddling Instruction, SUP, SUP conditioning, SUP Core Training, SUP training, Suzie Cooney, Suzie Trains Maui, training, Women's Fitness
Well, as the emails and photos pour in, there is much to share and do. Tommy and I would like to thank the community of Maui, the amazing team at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, our dear friends and volunteers, sponsors and those who traveled from far away places to contribute to such an inspiring, contagious day of joy and health. New friends were made, water fears conquered and we all discovered just how powerful one sport, that anyone can enjoy almost anywhere in the world; can bring such a dynamic group together for a good cause.
The winds were calm and then water became like a magic carpet. The laughs and splashes were echoed across the bay. Everyone had their own little thing going on. Paula cruised to Lahaina and back, Deanna had an incredible look of determination and shrieked with laughter often, and then there was Valerie who decided to take her dance steps right off the nose of her board. I loved seeing the big smile on Maria’s face too. Maria, you are officially a water girl!
See you on the water! Suzie
Look out for Kody in the years to come! Looks like Victor and Zane had a great day too! The pictures are awesome. Nice to have your life long friends and ohana out there. Love the ones of the transitions! Buzzy’s interview to follow photo gallery.Suzie
