Rincon Surf Blog

May Windswells Keep Surfers Checking

Jon Shafer — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:24:23 GMT

Sporadic Action Keeping the Queen Alive

Despite the season being over (only technically speaking), moderate windswell activity has provided rewards for those who bother to physically check the conditions on a daily basis. Low pressure systems have been making their way down the coast. thickening the marine layer, and boosting local breezes. Water temperatures are unseasonably frigid, still mired in the low-to-mid fifties, so you might even want to break out your 4/3's.

Ember Clothing Company

Jon Meixner, a former Santa Barbara resident, is the owner of Ember Clothing Company (www.emberusa.com), a start-up southern California surf-inspired clothing company that teamed up with Boarding House Mentors to support last month's charity event at Rincon. Check out their blog entry for the full story and pics: click here.

Send Us Your Stories & Pics of Rincon

Here in the offseason things have slowed down substantially, and we're looking for content to keep the local surf-junkies from jonesing, so please share anything interesting you've got that pertains to Rincon. Please email your submissions to rinconsurfblog@gmail.com.

Rincon Wave of the Day

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Surfline
Know Before You Go

Shark Attack, Heat Wave, Swell on the Way

Jon Shafer — Mon, 12 May 2008 17:52:49 GMT

Near-Flat Conditions Locally, but Conditions Should Change Shortly...

Unless you've been hiding underneath a rock, you've undoubtedly heard about the fatal shark attack down in San Diego this past Friday. A great white shark believed to be at least 15 feet long took the life of triathlete David Martin, and Southern California surfers have been on edge ever since. One thing to consider is that with the cold water "La Niña" event that we are currently experiencing, the probability of additional encounters with white sharks in the Southern Bight (Pt. Conception to the Mexican border) is more likely this Spring and Summer as the so-called "Red Triangle" has effectively shifted southward as West Coast sea surface temperatures are running several degrees below normal. This theory has been supported by other reported sightings in our area, particularly Hollister Ranch. Keep those eyes open surfers, and be alert as "The Man in the Grey Suit" is in the neighborhood...

After weeks of flat conditions, things are starting to happen this week. First, we're looking at some strong windswell mid-week, followed by a strong Southern-Hemi coming later, a swell that has been pounding Tahiti. At the very least, local surfers will be able to find some good-sized waves if they are willing to travel a bit this coming weekend. Daytime temperatures the past few days have been pushing triple digits. Imagine the possibilities when you throw a nice little swell into the equation...

Environmental News

Toxic Stew in the Mid-Pacific Gyre: VBS.tv Calls on the "North Pacific Garbage Patch"

"For years we’ve been reading about a patch of garbage the size of Texas floating in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, ingeniously dubbed the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Basically, any trash that gets dumped in the water rides the currents to this one spot and joins an ever-increasing flotilla of crap. For all the breathless accounts of the mess and its impact on the area’s sealife, however, no one seemed to have a picture of the buildup.

In order to sate our own curiosity, VBS joined the crew of a research vessel studying the trash and sailed out into one of the most remote spots of open water in the world, the North Pacific Gyre, in search of this mythical garbage island. What we discovered once we got there was an ecological disaster beyond any of our expectations and possibly the single worst thing human beings have done to the planet and ourselves. Hope you’re into cancer and sex-reversal!"

Read more and watch the video reports: http://www.vbs.tv/shows/toxic/garbage-island/

Selected Images of Rincon

Pete Mussio off the lip...

Evan Mendelson cutty

Relief for Surf-Deprived in Sight

Jon Shafer — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:38:38 GMT

Southern-Hemi Energy En Route

I don't know about you, but I've been feeling a bit off-kilter lately, probably due to the fact that it has been ridiculously flat in our area for weeks and weeks, but hopefully, things are about to change. A very strong New Zealand swell is headed our way, expected to arrive late next week without significant dissipation of energy. Adding to or possibly subtracting from the equation will be the possibility of late season NW energy at the same time. Whereas the straight s-hemi would not matter much for The Queen of the Coast, these late-Spring combo swells can be very potent, so stay tuned to the forecasts over the next week...

*** Surfers Taking Care of Surfers: PLEASE DON'T FORGET to CONTRIBUTE! ***

Contact Trace Ornalez (805)901-3490 or Keith Akins (805)643-7972
Email: waynerichfundraiser@hotmail.com

Click here to donate to Wayne Rich

Random Images of Rincon

Bombs Away! Farmer John drops into the wave of his life, Dec. 5, 2007

Later that same morning. Epic swell, offshore breeze. How much better could it get?

Large, long-interval West swells turn the Rivermouth section into a 1/4 mile drag strip. This surfer is flying...

Local goofy-footed phenom Brandon Smith soars off the top at the Rincon Classic.

Yakas in form

Small Windswell Not Much Else as Season Ends

Jon Shafer — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 19:01:05 GMT

Outside Chance Remains for Another Swell, But...

The reality is that the 2007/08 Rincon season has gone out with a whimper, unlike a year ago when we had one of the best Aprils ever. Not much more to do now but sneak an evening glassoff session, and pray that the Southern Ocean lights up pretty soon. As pope over at SantaBarbaraSurfing.com points out the sand is starting to fill back in, revitalizing local beaches that were denuded by the Feb. 24th swell.

Surf Culture & 60’s Theme Concert at SB Fair Benefit for Unity Shoppe

This Wednesday, April 23rd is the opening night at the SB Fair & Expo at Earl Warren Showgrounds. The theme will be “Peace, Love & Unity”, and the Fair will be decorated with 60’s theme. The Showgrounds are being dubbed “Haight-Ashbury Arena”, and the lineup of performers includes the legendary 60’s band “The Turtles” (9 top 40 hits including So Happy Together), as well as the quintessential surf band of the 60's The Surfaris (Wipeout). Don't miss this rare opportunity to rock out to the benefit of the needy. The surf is flat, what better way to spend some time?

Random Rincon Images

Speed Section at The Rivermouth

Cutback in The Cove

Dawn Patrol I

Dawn Patrol II

Wayne Rich's Fundraising Event

Jon Shafer — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 16:18:43 GMT

Ventura Surf Club Announces Benefit for Local Shaper...

Surgery Needed to Correct Cervical Spine Problem

Originally Posted by Ventura Surf Club

We learned today that local surfboard maker, Wayne Rich is having some serious medical issues and needs our help. There will be a fund raising event on June 7th at Marina Park that will feature live music, raffles and auctions. To find out more about this event, visit our web site. We also created a donation page for Wayne Rich on our website. This page allows you to make donations directly to Wayne Rich using your credit card.

Sincerely,

Michael Mariani
www.venturasurfclub.org

When: Sat. June 7th - Marina Park in Ventura
Live Music, Raffles, Auctions

$20 donation admission includes admission lunch and entry into drawing for a grand prize, all proceeds go to Wayne Rich.

Contact Trace Ornalez (805)901-3490 or Keith Akins (805)643-7972
Email: waynerichfundraiser@hotmail.com

Click here to donate to Wayne Rich

Surfing Exhibit at Santa Barbara Maritime Museum Opens This Weekend

Jon Shafer — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 18:02:56 GMT

Local Surfers, Shapers, and Watermen/women to be Honored at Public Opening

Santa Barbara is a proven powerhouse, a hotbed of talent that has stoked the flames of the global surfing community since the late 1950's. From world-class shapers such as Al Merrick and Renny Yater, to world champion surfers like Tom Curren, Shaun Tomson, and Kim Mearig, Santa Barbara's influence is immeasurable. These legendary names as well as others like George Greenough will be honored with a permanent full-time exhibit at the SBMM.

Schedule of Events for Saturday April 12th

• 12-1 pm: Book Signing: Surfing: Women of the Waves by Linda Chase

"Women have had a place in surf culture since the sport began. Join us for a book signing with author Linda Chase, whose book profiles the history and all types of women of the waves."

• 1-1:30 pm: Marilyn S. Tennity Surfing Exhibit Opening Celebration

"Join us for the community opening and ribbon cutting for the Maritime Museum’s newest permanent exhibit, the Marilyn S. Tennity Surfing Exhibit. Memorabilia includes shoulder-mounted camera and kneeboard used by George Greenough. Surfboard display includes those used in competition by Tom Curren, Kelly Slater, Kim Mearig and Bobby Martinez."

• 1:30-2:30 pm: Book Signing: Surfer's Code by Shaun Tomson

"World champion surfer Shaun Tomson will be signing copies of his book, Surfer's Code: 12 Simple Lessons for Riding through Life, in which he shares the life lessons he's gathered from decades of surfing-from his boyhood adventures in South Africa to the world tour in the late 1970s to the business world today."

• 2-2:20 pm: Surfing Exhibit Tour with SBMM Curator (Q & A to Follow)

"Join SBMM Curator, Jennifer Wisniewski for a tour of SBMM’s newest permanent exhibit as she highlights local surfing history and discusses the artifacts that bring this unique exhibit to life."

For more information please visit http://sbmm.org/

The show about surf, surfing and surfers shreds on this week. Hi Shredability wraps up their piece on the Pipeline Masters. We hang out with Mick Fanning and spend about $800 bucks on Mai Tais. Then we watch what happens when great surfers have to deal with not so great conditions even if it is the finals of Pipeline. Like they say in the episode, this isn't tennis, you can't wait for the court to dry. This is mother nature, and she answers to nobody.

Hanging out with Mick Fanning - http://www.vbs.tv/video.php?id=1460784072

The ups and downs of surfing with Mother Nature - http://www.vbs.tv/video.php?id=1460747494

Next up this week on Hi Shredability - Dane Reynolds, a 3 part day in the life segment.

You can follow all the episodes here - http://www.vbs.tv/video.php?id=1447240447

Oh and if you like the tunes on the show, the band is called Beat Buttons - http://www.myspace.com/beatbuttons

Thanks for watching!

Rory (Ahearn)"

One Winter Story, Surfer Magazine Summary

Jon Shafer — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 06:50:40 GMT

One Winter Story to benefit Santa Barbara Channelkeeper

Sarah Gerhardt drops into a hefty Rincon wall 12.5.07

“ONE WINTER STORY”- CHANNELKEEPER FILM AND MUSIC NIGHT

Award-winning Film to screen April 18 at the Marjorie Luke Theatre, as a benefit for Santa Barbara Channelkeeper.
6:30 pm Friday April 18th at the Marjorie Luke Theatre
Tickets $12 on sale at the door beginning at 6 pm
Live music by Omar Cowan and Jason Campbell & the Drive

Join Channelkeeper for a special screening of the award-winning film "One Winter Story", a unique documentary about Sarah Gerhardt, the first woman to tow-in surf the outer reefs of Hawaii and to surf the legendary Maverick’s. The award-winning film, made by Hawaii filmmaker Sally Lundburg and San Francisco filmmaker Elizabeth Pepin, is a personal documentary that follows Sarah as she learns to surf big waves with her mentor, Ken Bradshaw, becoming the first woman in the world to tow-in surf, and eventually to Maverick's. “One Winter Story” is an unprecedented glimpse into the male-dominated world of big-wave surfing from an unusual and seldom seen perspective - a woman’s. The surfing footage is an awesome sight but the fine, intensely immediate rendering of Sarah's experience is this unforgettable film's real reward. “One Winter Story” traces Sarah's strength and determination to their roots in a beautiful montage of film, voice, memory and emotion.

The filmmakers will be on hand to introduce their film and give a special Q&A session afterwards. Live music by Omar Cowan and Jason Campbell & the Drive and a raffle will precede the film. Tickets are $12 and will be available at the door beginning at 6 pm (cash/check only please) or by calling Channelkeeper at 563-3377.

For additional information on One Winter Story or Frank Films, please go to the Frank Films website: www.frankfilms.net

Santa Barbara Channelkeeper is a local non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Santa Barbara Channel and its watersheds through citizen action, education, field work and enforcement. Channelkeeper works on the water and in the community to monitor local waterways, restore aquatic ecosystems, advocate for clean water, enforce environmental laws, and educate and engage citizens in identifying and devising solutions to local pollution problems.

For more information on Santa Barbara Channelkeeper, please visit www.sbck.org

Surfer Magazine Travel Report / Spot Summary: Rincon Point, CA

If you haven't already done so, be sure to check out Surfer Mag's thorough summary of Rincon.

www.surfermag.com/travel/travelreport/spot-check/rincon/summary

Weekend Event Leaves Particpants Smiling

Jon Shafer — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 07:09:50 GMT

Surfers Share the Stoke Despite Marginal Conditions

Surfers of all ages and from as far North as Santa Cruz and as far South as San Diego converged upon the cobblestones of Rincon Point this weekend to participate in this innaugural event organized by The Groundswell Society - the brainchild of Glenn Henning, founder of the Surfrider Foundation, and former World Champion surfer Shaun Tomson. Members of the Rincon Pit Crew assisted with event planning and execution.

"Back in the 90's we focused on the environment, and cleaning up the water with the Cleanwater Classic," said Henning. It appears that a major shift in concerns has occurred; the intent now is to focus on the social climate between surfers, and to improve the entire psychosocial experience of the sport that so many now share and love.

The novel format of this event was quite like no other. Rather than surfers competing against each other for the best waves and highest scores, surfers were awarded points for actually sharing waves, all in an effort to reinforce the idea that even in the most crowded conditions, everyone can have fun.

The event began early Saturday with a ritual blessing performed by Chumash ceremonial leader and Dolphin Dancer Mati ("Little Hawk") Waiya.

Unlike other surf contests, no specific competition areas were demarcated or enforced. Non-contestants were free to join in and free surf amongst the contestants.

Henning said that he chose Rincon as the location for the first event of many to follow for several reasons, but mostly because it is such an incredible natural arena for the sport. He added that at this location the event could be staged with minimal environmental impact.

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Killer Rincon Video Courtesy of Andy Hahn

Few Waves, Plenty of Surf Culture

Jon Shafer — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 07:06:30 GMT

Don't Forget to Share the Stoke this Weekend at The 'Con

Ready for Launch

Goin' DEEP...

Mother Nature appears to be cooperating with the organizers of the "Sharing the Stoke" Event, with a decent-sized swell and clean conditions forecast for Saturday. Weather may be a factor for Sunday, but I don't want to jinx it by showing much concern over it at this point. I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone at Rincon this weekend. I should be there shooting, so please stop by and introduce yourself if you happen to see me there...

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All For a Few Perfect Waves...

Who Was Dora?

"Miki took to his grave many stories that no one will ever know, but this book will also tell many and give new insight into his life. In the end only a select group knew the real person. I’m not sure I did-but almost.”
-- Kelly Slater, best-known surfer in the world.

"For fifty years, surfing in Southern California has been shrouded in a myth wrapped in an enigma by the name of Miki Dora. Now, we have the facts. A magnificent book."
-- Kevin Starr, California Librarian Emeritus and Professor at USC

"In times like these it turns out not only is there an oral history of Miki Dora, there must be. Great reportage."
-- Stephen Gaghan, surfer, screenwriter/director
(Traffic, Syriana)

"The most renegade spirit the sport has yet to produce."
-- New York Times

Watch a video of Miki Dora here: Miki Dora Vid

Click on the picture to learn more about the new book.

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Bra Boys

BRA BOYS is a documentary film narrated by Academy Award-winner Russell Crowe about the real-life brotherhood, murder and family loyalties of Australia’s warring gangs --- the surfing “Bra Boys” of Maroubra, a beach side suburb of Sydney. These are not the laid-back, “Hey, dude,” seaside slackers of Southern California legend.

Written, directed and produced by Sunny Abberton, himself a childhood resident of Maroubra’s public housing projects, BRA BOYS traces the cultural evolution of the much maligned --- and tattooed --- youthful surfing community, and in particular the Abberton brothers: Sunny, Koby, Jai and Dakota, one charged with murdering a Sydney “standover man” (Australian slang for an extortionist who uses physical violence, or threats, to extract payment on behalf of another), another pursuing a professional surf career but charged as an accessory in his brother’s murder trial, another trying to hold the family together, and the youngest brother --- whose sole inheritance is his siblings’ national notoriety.

BRA BOYS is the first full-length film project undertaken by, and officially sanctioned by, Bra Boys themselves. The film shows their success in professional big wave surfing, their international reputation for hard partying and rough justice. They have a running battle with authorities and rely absolutely and solely on one another in order to fit into a society in which they are otherwise displaced and, often, disinterested. The film explores the historical stigma associated with Australia’s rebellious surf community, as exemplified by the residents of Maroubra and their social displacement.

Using archival shots, blended with new footage and interviews, BRA BOYS presents a dynamic portrait of the current “surf vision,” a story that is at once compassionate, compelling and confrontational: fights for against-the-odds success, predictable failures. Yet, ultimately, the film’s narrative illustrates how even amidst the burdens of a stigmatized legacy, a new generation can hope for better.

BRA BOYS opens Friday, April 11th in New York City at The Quad Theatre, 34 West 13th Street, and Long Island. (Simultaneoulsy, the film will be opening on 15 screens in Los Angeles and Southern California, as well as six screens in Hawaii.)

Bra Boys Exclusive Trailer 1

http://www.braboysfilm.com
http://www.myspace.com/braboysfilm

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ARCHY COMES TO LIFE

A documentary film on surf icon Matt Archbold’s life is set to be told this coming spring throughout theaters across America...

LOS ANGELES, CA – March 4th 2008:

Billygoat Productions in conjunction with sponsors, RVCA, Surfer Magazine, Santa Cruz Surfboards and Hoven in association with Studio411 is proud to present Archy – a documentary film on Matt “Archy” Archbold.

Directed by Bill Ballard (The Mystic, Blue Crush), Archy chronicles one of the most fascinating and talented surf icons throughout his career as top-amateur, dynamic and innovative pro, troubled athlete, and most of all a survivor.

Since exploding onto the surf scene at 14 years old, Archy’s surfing and style have influenced more than three generations of surfers.

A variety of professional surfers, musicians, actors and noted industry leaders lend their voices and experiences to the chapters of Archy’s story including the likes of Martin Potter, Chris Mauro, Art Brewer, Bruce Irons, Christian Fletcher, Dino Andino, Moses Paskowitz, Sunny Garcia, Herbie Fletcher and Garth Tarlow.

The film is narrated by rock legend, Henry Rollins.

The world premier for Archy is scheduled for Thursday 10th April in Newport Beach, CA. at the Lido Theater with a national tour, hosted by Director Bill Ballard, set to follow starting in Hermosa Beach on Friday 18th April.

The film will be available in both domestic and international surf shops from Tuesday 17th June onwards.

Visit www.archythemovie.com

The "Sharing the Stoke" Invitational & more...

Jon Shafer — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:27:37 GMT

Team Surfing at Rincon Benefit Event

As previously announced, the first annual "Sharing the Stoke" event will go off as scheduled this coming weekend at Rincon. Brought to you by the organizing committee of Cher Pendarvis, former World Surfing Champion Shaun Tomson, reknowned surf artist Robert Heeley, Surfrider Foundation Founder Glenn Hening, Rob Woods, Maggie Hood, and ‘Terrible’ Ted 'Muñoz, this should be one exciting weekend both in the water and on the cobbles for participants and observers alike. Following is a link to a document containing more information including the list of invitees, event rules, and schedule. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to download the '.pdf' file. It is available as a free download at www.Adobe.com if you don't already have it installed on your computer.

Here's the link: www.santabarbarasurfer.com/documents/sharing_the_stoke.pdf

World Cup Tow-in Surfing Championship

The Association of Professional Towsurfers, Inc. (APT) is proud to announce the Punta de Lobos, Pichilemu Chile World Cup Tow-In Surfing Championship that will take place in South America. This will be the first stop for the 2008/2009 APT World Tour Season. The holding period for this prestigious event will begin April 15, 2008 and last thru July 15, 2008. Note that our Rincon local boy Chris Brown is an invitee...

For more information, click on the following link: www.santabarbarasurfer.com/documents/chile.pdf

Morgan's Killer Wipeout Video

Check out this cool vid shot in local waters, brought to you by Bogus...

Extra
At Random Images

A view from the Rincon trailhead we're not likely to see again anytime soon...

Bombora as seen from the shore.

Aquatic Convergence at the Sandbar...

Rincon Season Winding Down

Jon Shafer — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 20:20:30 GMT

Big Weekend Blow Provides Windswell

Aside from some heavy windswell action this past week, things have been realtively quiet at Rincon lately. Some increasing NW groundswell is expected later this week, but don't expect size to go much beyond the chest-high range. The following weekend will feature the Sharing the Stoke team event, and with any luck, the surf conditions will be a little more favorable than the barely contestable waves that we saw during this year's Rincon Classic. Rumor has it that many formidable teams of surfers have entered the fray, so things should be interesting...

Random Images Shot Recently at The 'Con

The Contestant

Sepia Barrel in The Cove

Old School

Rincon Regular Janna Irons Scores 2nd Place in Aussie Contest

Janna Irons placed second behind reigning Women's World Longboard Champion Jennifer Smith, final score Smith: 17.33, Irons: 14.87. Third place went to French surfer Justine Dupont. Bravo Jana, way to make us all proud!

Read more: www.solspot.com

Goleta Surfing's 'Best of Winter' Slide Show

Check out Tom Modugno's excellent collection of images that capture the 2007/2008 season.

Be sure to visit www.GoletaSurfing.com

Gallery of Images Now Online

Jon Shafer — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 20:02:29 GMT

Images From the 2008 Rincon Classic Now Available

Gallery of Images

You can now view a gallery of 700+ images captured at this year's Rincon Classic event. These images are raw and unedited (i.e. straight from the camera), but have been scaled way down in size for easy web viewing. Please forward the link for the gallery to anyone you know who might be interested. When you arrive at the gallery page, simply click on the first thumbnail image and sit back and watch the automated slideshow -or- navigate through the gallery using the tool at the top of the page. Remember, there are 777 images available on 16 index pages, so it will take some time to view them all...

Here's the link: http://rinconsurfpics.com/classic

A Classic Finish for Contest Weekend

Jon Shafer — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 07:08:50 GMT

Conditions Clean Up for an Epic Finals

Had the 25th annual Rincon Classic gone off as originally scheduled, many lives would have been in peril as the waves on Sunday 2/24 were potentially hazardous. Contest organizers pushed the date back a couple of weeks, taking a risk of less-than-contestable conditions. Well, following a week of forecasting, Saturday's opener brought with it clean little waste- to chest-high surf, and it was game-on for the contenders. Sunday morning was similar, but it looked ominious as the dreaded Southerly "piss wind" started to blow, and the waves began to crumble. Fortunately, as if at the hands of the surf gods, the wind died, and the surf jumped, providing excellent condiitions for Sunday afternoon finals. I'm working on a gallery of images, but that is going to take some time to put together, so in the meantime, here are a few for your viewing pleasure.

Conner Coffin

Decker McCallister

Demi Boelsterli

Adam Lambert

Wayne Rich

WINNERS

Men's ............................ Adam Lambert
Women's ........................ Demi Boelsterli
Gremlins ......................... Decker McCallister
Wahine .......................... Catherine Clark
Juniors ........................... Conner Coffin
Masters .......................... Brett Jordan
Legends ......................... Jonathan Church
Boys .............................. Conner Coffin
Grand Masters ................. Steve Hanson
Red Bull Airshow .............. Tyler Anderson
Longboard ....................... Brandon Arrambide
Women's Longboard .......... Miranda Joseph

NEXT RINCON EVENT

New Rincon Pit Crew Site Launched

Visit the new Rincon Pit Crew website @ www.rinconpitcrew.com

Weekend Forecast Downgraded; Rincon Classic a "GO"?

Jon Shafer — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 07:00:51 GMT

Still Waiting for the Official Word From Contest Organizers

I haven't heard an official statement from the organizers of the Rincon Classic yet, but I am expecting that the contest will go off this weekend as small-to-moderate surf is forecast for Saturday, and possibly larger on Sunday, with fair weather. If I hear anything more, I will post it here.

In the meantime, ongoing discussions have been taking place, contemplating just how big the largest set waves were at Rincon on Sunday, February 24th. What say you? Please use the comments section below to voice your opinion. Keep in mind that the swell model was registering observed heights up to 25 feet from the local buoys...

Click on the image below to view large, high-resolution version.

Forecast for Rincon Classic Looking Good

Jon Shafer — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 20:39:36 GMT

Moderate Swell Predicted for Next Weekend

Rincon Classic organizers took a big chance when they postponed the contest to the new waiting period of the weekend of March 8th & 9th, but at present it looks like they will be rewarded with favorable conditions after all. The forecast for Buoy 46053, otherwise known as East Santa Barbara Channel Buoy is calling for wave heights in the 6-7 foot range, ideal for a contest. Between now and then we are expecting a combination of NW and SW energy to keep things active along the coast...

Selected Images

The monster swell that slammed into our area a week ago was one of the most impressive swell events in many years. A myriad of wild images have been making their way through email circulation, several of which illustrate just what a freak of a swell it really was. When was the last time anyone saw waves heights of this magnitude, capable of sweeping pedestrians off of the pier and into the water?

IMAGES COURTESY OF SCOTT BULL

Not long after these pictures were taken, both Stearn's Wharf and the harbor breakwater were closed to foot traffic for obvious reasons...

Surfer Identified

The surfer who wowed onlookers and earned a place in local history for his incredible surfing performance at Rincon during last Sunday's killer swell is none other than Channel Islands team rider Blake Howard. Blake put on an amazing display of power surfing, while showing no fear as he made several waves from up top at Indicator through the middle section, ending practically at the call box. Many watched in disbelief as Blake made section after section of waves that would appear unmakeable. Kudos to you Blake, you have earned a massive amount of respect from the local surf community from your feats on this day at Rincon. Bravo!

The Waves Just Keep On Comin'...

Jon Shafer — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 18:45:41 GMT

Clean Overhead Sessions the Norm

Following the magnitude of Sunday's swell you would expect there to be something of a letdown, but for most of this week, Rincon continued to pump with clean good-sized barrels. All areas of the point, from Indicator down into The Cove seem to be working, as the sand has really shifted creating contours for connecting sets. The most recent burst of swell energy should be peaking overnight, so tomorrow morning should be 'regulation Rincon' once more...

Extra

Caption this pic. Pictured below is a shot taken at Sandspit last Sunday afternoon. Feel free to post a caption for what these surfers might be thinking or saying to each other in the comments section...

Big & Nasty: Gnarliest Swell In Years Charges Into SB Channel!

Jon Shafer — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 20:51:23 GMT

Many Surfers Can't Even Make the Paddle Out

Sunday morning brought with it the promise of a new swell, following the disappointments of a cancelled contest, and several days of stormy weather. For many days the swell forecasters had been calling for a large West to fill in Sunday afternoon, but what arrived several hours earlier than expected can be considered nothing less than mind-blowing. Locals reported to 1-3' mild Rincon early Sunday, but within only about an hour's time, all hell broke loose -- to the magnitude not seen for years, maybe decades. Leaving Santa Barbara, I didn't expect to find much, but as I drove past Shark's and up Summerland Hill, I caught a glimpse of the most well-defined lines that I can ever remember seeing in 35 years. Continuing down the 101, cars were stopped all along the side of the road, gawkers staring out to sea at waves where you would never normally see them. Passing Padaro/Santa Claus I saw sets of 10-foot-plus lines stacked all the way to the horizon...like nothing I've ever seen locally here before...including the El Niños of the early 1980's...

When I arrived at the Rincon parking lot it was 2/3's empty. Surfers were caught off-gaurd. I scrambled down the path, and couldn't believe my eyes when I turned towards the sea. Literal mountains of whitewater, everywhere you looked. I couldn't even see the horizon - even when climbing up to higher ground. How big was it really, dare I say 15 - 20, Hawaiian on the biggest sets? The lineup simply never got crowded. Many tried to get out, and many failed. The longshore current was like a raging river, not to be tamed. Only the heartiest made it out, and then, taking off was a whole 'nother story. I shot hundreds of images, most yet to be processed, but I just wanted to share a few with you in the meantime. As quick as this swell came, it clearly had faded by morning to a more workable size. Reports were that it was much cleaner and set waves could still be had in the DOH range. It may be weeks, years, or decades before another event comes along like this one. Below are a couple of images for those who missed it. The glare from shooting directly into the afternoon sun made things quite challenging, but you'll get the picture. Enjoy!

Be sure to check out the Surf Photo Gallery and 'Sessions' reports in the forums at www.santabarbarasurfer.com to read more.

Important Notice: Rincon Classic Postponed Due to Inclement Weather

Jon Shafer — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 15:11:22 GMT

Annual Contest Re-scheduled for March 8th & 9th

Much to the chagrin of surfers and fans alike, the 25th annual Rincon Classic contest has been postponed until the weekend of March 8th & 9th due to severe local weather. Of course, as fate would have it, a massive wave-generator is predicted to kick up solid DOH surf for early next week. Let's all pray that the month of March will be as good for local surf as February has been.

The following weekend, the "Sharing the Stoke Invitational" contest will be staged by the Groundswell Society. This unique contest is hoping to generate funds to suppport the preservation of the marine environment and ecosystems. The Groundswell Society is happy to announce the resumption of its signature team surfing benefit event at Rincon - with a new name and an extraordinary concept. Invitations will be extended based on the public service records of surf clubs, community organizations, surf shops, or companies. 15 teams will be invited along with 45 individuals. If you think you, your club or company might be interested, you might start by downloading a copy of the questionnaire to get a feel for how to land an invitation. For more information, please visit www.groundswellsociety.org.

Local Towsurfers Attack Shark Park

February 19, 2008
By: TowsurfingAdventures.com/Towsurfer.com

"It was two years and two days since the last time we had surfed Shark Park. With two small boats, three PWC's and a few eager and returning big wave chargers, the mission to Shark Park was on and long over due. February 9th turned out to be another great adventure. We had been watching the charts for about a week straight and finally a one day window opened up and we knew that this might be the last chance we would have this season to make it happen." - Greg Huglin

With no space for a PWC on Greg Huglin's 21' Anderson/Greenough boat, Eric Akiskalian was determined to get his PWC there. So, he drove the entire 50 mile voyage next to Greg's vessel on his PWC in 2 1/2 hours and then, towed all day! The first glimpse of the reef capping and snow covered mountain tops in the background, made for a beautiful arrival and start to the morning's first session with a 12' @ 18 second buoy reading.

Read the full story by clicking here.

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New Music: Presenting Tristan Prettyman

I'm proud to announce great new artist named Tristan Prettyman. She's a great singer songwriter from San Diego who is also a great surfer: She'll be on the cover of FOAM Magazine in May. She just kicked off her tour w/ G. Love & Special Sauce last week. Her new album, Hello, comes out April 15th.

Not only is she a talented musician, but Tristan is also a surfing fiend who rips.

"Timing is everything and places are moments we just happen to be experiencing. If I could I'd much rather send a postcard and in another life I would pursue the fascination I have with cameras and film. I'd travel the world, taking pictures of all things beautiful, in nothing but black and white film., with an old camera. For now I play music...all is chaotic and peacful."

Click on the link below for more information:
http://www.myspace.com/tristanprettyman

Rincon Surf Blog Recognized

Much to my surprise when I opened my email box the other day I received notification that Rincon Surf Blog had been reviewed and rated with a score of 9.4 out of 10 ("Excellent"). I had no idea that such a thing as a rating even existed, but of the 85 websites that were reviewed in the Sports/Watersports category of Blogged.com, this site came in at #3. "We evaluated your blog based on the following criteria: Frequency of Updates, Relevance of Content, Site Design, and Writing Style. After carefully reviewing each of these criteria, your site was given its 9.4 score. This is quite an achievement!" http://www.blogged.com/directory/sports/watersports

Goleta Surfing & Rincon Surf Blog Both Turn a Year Old

Both this site and Tom Modungo's http://www.goletasurfing.com/ turned one year old this week. If you have never visited Tom's site, I encourage you to do so. Chock full of recent articles and photos, Tom has also compiled a great collection of vintage Goleta surfing photos, focusing on Haskell's, Sands, and Campus Point. In addition Tom has written personal profiles and historical bios of the most influential locals, so be sure to visit and bookmark the URL as the site is updated frequently. Congratulations Tom! I can't believe that a year has passed since we both began the undertaking of memorializing the local surfing experience.

Wind, Weather, and a Contest

Jon Shafer — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:49:57 GMT

Annual Rincon Classic This Weekend

Just a quick reminder to everyone that the 25th annual Rincon Classic will be happening this weekend, and there figures to be quite a show for the finals on Sunday, as a significant swell event is currently brewing in the North Pacific. Hopefully the wind and weather will not diminish the wave quality for the contestants. In the meantime, there has been some small surf around for everyone to get tuned-up...

Weekend Update

Jon Shafer — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 22:28:59 GMT

President's Day Holiday Weekend Delivers!

Continuing the recent trend of consistent quality surf, President's Day Weekend so far has produced some outstanding sessions at The 'Con. While maybe not as large as some of the forecasters had predicted, a solid and serious West swell has kept the buzz going for several days now.

Carpinteria resident / Rincon local Bo Stanley tunes up for next weekend's Rincon Classic

Shacked up in the Green Room.

More surf is on the way...