Sun., Jan.31, 2010 Penuelas to Gilligans/Copa Marina, Guanica

It just keeps getting better. For me, the best paddle of the journey so far. A 12.5 mile downwinder that took just over 3 hours and we experienced big open ocean swells, lots of wind, waves, sand spits out in the middle of nowhere and finished in pristine glassy mangrove channels at Gilligans Island in Guanica. Mike(ATC}, Stuart, and Heather joined me on the paddle and we met Jim, Savannah, Lincoln, Katgie, Ryan and Marley at the finish at Gilligans and Copa Marina Beach Resort. What a contrast of 20 knots of wind at your back in overhead swells, to paddling in swimming pool like conditions and an actual swimming pool at an upscale resort.... needed to rinse the salt off the board and paddle. Heather is our south coast guru, and ATC Mike grew up in Ponce so I just asked them to show me a fun paddle in their backyard and they blew me away. Expectations exceeded by far. The pictures and video should give some idea of what a beautiful day we had. Beautiful day, beautiful friends, beautiful island and awesome paddle. I love Puerto Rico!! I love paddleboarding!!!

Paddle for Haiti, Sunday Jan, 24, 2010

I was humbled and honored to be a part of such a wonderful gathering of fellow paddlers, friends , neighbors and beach bums for a good cause to raise some money for all those suffering just downwind a couple hundred miles in Haiti. A full day of so much fun , perfect ocean conditions and amazingly good energy. When all was said and done, a bit over $20,00.00 was raised from the efforts and generosity of all involved. I can't begin to mention any individuals , sponsors  or anyone who helped at any level , because failing to give credit to anyone who helped would be a disservice.

Just a LOUD THANKS to everyone who came out of the woodwork to help put such an amazing event together in just 7 days. You all know who you are....MUCHAS GRACIAS. We had 88 registered paddlers, four chase boats, and a few dozen others on shore helping with the logistics of the after party. From 7 year olds to grandparents took part in the 3.5 mile paddle from Pinones to Punta las Marias. The ocean glassed off like an aquarium just before the start and was like an ice rink the entire paddle. Surreal conditions. Amazing.Wonderful day, wonderful gathering, wonderful paddle, wonderful party for a great cause. Once again, MUCHAS GRACIAS A TODOS!!!!!!!