Photographs of Surfing Exhibit!

All this week, check out the amazing exhibition of photographs of surfing from Dax Verlaine!  http://slurl.com/secondlife/TSUNAMI%20BEACH/162/227/28




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SLSA 2012 Season 2 Venues

The Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) announced the dates, venues, waves, and boards that will be used for the second season of 2012.

AUGUST
Aug 18--Open
Aug 25--Pro
Place: Barton Springs 
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/B ... /131/62/23
Wave: Maoli NextGen
Board: HP5
(spectator area at Carpe Diem Surf)


SEPTEMBER
Sept 15--Open
Sept 22--Pro
Place: Tsunami Beach http://slurl.com/secondlife/TSUNAMI%20BEACH/213/129/22
Wave: HP Sunset
Board: SSi Longboard

OCTOBER
Oct 20--Open
Oct 27--Pro
Place: Asylum Break http://slurl.com/secondlife/Asylum%20Reef/128/128/2
Wave: Nalu 
Board: SSi Shortboard

NOVEMBER
Nov 10--Open
Nov 17--Pro
Place: Chi http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Chi/140/220/23
Wave: Fluff
Board: SSi Shortboard

DECEMBER
Dec 1--Open 
Dec 8--Pro
Place: Cape Marina http://slurl.com/secondlife/CAPE%20MARINA/206/146/20
Wave: HP Jaws
Board: SSi Longboard

Expect sign-ups to be announced for the August competition soon.
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Mari Gives A Tour Of Steppin' Out Shoes In Virtual Highway

Webby Merlin's new shoe store "Steppin' Out Shoes"
at Adventura Mall in Virtual Highway http://virtualhighway.us/
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SLSA Fundraiser and Mini-Comp

Today, the Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) held a fundraiser and mini-comp on its home sim of Solace Dreams. The fundraiser was held by way of donations, raffles, and the ability to bet on the heats of the mini-comp.


The mini-comp was a new and different format for the SLSA. In a "sudden death" style set-up, each heat was limited to two surfers with one wave each. There was one judge who decided which surfer best deserved to advance to the next round. And to keep things really interesting, surfers did not know what board they would be competing on until the start of their heat.


The results of the competition are below with the * indicating who advanced to the next round.

1st Round

HEAT 1
Alvaro Peveasey*
Sarahs Wirefly

HEAT 2
Melian Catronis
Zelda Zimberman*

HEAT3
Mick Lunasea*
Lourinho Nizna

HEAT 4
Petra Xaris
Colleen Brennan*

HEAT 5
Robbin Ember
Cierra Theriac*

HEAT 6
bullet admiral*
Neven Anthony

HEAT 7
Pyper Dollinger
Ekoslov Resident*

HEAT 8
Dax Verlaine*
Rick Galli

Quarter Finals

HEAT 9
ignacio pevensey*
Zelda Zimberman

HEAT 10
Mick Lunasea
Colleen Brennan*

HEAT 11
Cierra Theriac*
Bullet Admiral

HEAT 12
Ekoslov*
Dax Verlaine

Semi-Finals

HEAT 13
Alvaro (ignacio pevensey)*
Colleen Brennan

HEAT 14
Cierra Theriac
Ekoslov*

and the Surf Off Final Heat
Alvaro (ignacio pevensey)
Ekoslov

Final Winner
Alvaro (ignacio pevensey)
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SLSA Fundraiser and Mini-Comp Today!!!

As posted on the SLSA Forums:

SLSA Sim Fundraiser and "Surf Off" Mini Comp
Sunday July 29th
11:00am SL Time
Solace Dreams
Spectator Stands will be at Coronado Beach.

Music, dancing, surfing, raffle, and a little something new.
Nico will be our DJ for this event. Raffle boards will be up for a chance to win cool prizes, including clothes, jewelry, a Hyperwave, and Surfboard.

Mini-Comp will feature surfing in a "surf off" tie-breaker format. Each heat will be two surfers, each getting only one wave to see who moves on to the next heat. And because this is a fundraiser, and to keep things interesting, spectators will be able to bet on the outcome of each heat.

To enter the "Surf Off" sign up here:
viewtopic.php?f=8&t=2107
Entries will be limited to the first 16 surfers that sign up. If you are having problems signing up, contact the EC Bobbi Laval, or the Beach Marshal Sally LaSalle.

See you there !!!

To register go to the forum.

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Cierra Theriac "Waves of Courage" Champ Shares Her thoughts


Cie has sent her thoughts in about the "Waves of Courage" Competition, I thought you would enjoy reading the thoughts of the first Opensim Surf Competion Winner, WTG Cie xx


"My thoughts on the Waves of Courage competition… hmmm… so many different things go through my head.


I have to mention my thoughts leading up to the competition first. I approached VH with mild curiosity. It was kind of, Meh, I had SL what did I need another virtual world for? But then Mari mentioned surfing and I had to go check it out.  So I went and looked.  I couldn't really form an opinion at that point because there weren't any rezzers or loaner boards. And I wasn't ready to invest any money into VH yet. Since I couldn't try it out, I didn't know what surfing was like at that point. Then I read Mari's article in SW that the competitors would be given boards to practice on and keep. My ears perked up on that one. A free board??? Hard to turn that incentive down. 




I went back to VH to look again. I ran into Mari. She asked if I was going to compete and I said I was thinking about it. Next thing I knew, she was giving me a board, a kini and a rashie. Guess I was going to compete then.

I didn't have a lot of time to practice. I went into VH every couple of days about 2 weeks before the comp. I would surf for about 15-20 minutes before starting to scream, "I hate this board! I hate this wave!" NO ONE SHOULD TAKE THIS PERSONALLY AT ALL. I hate every new wave (and some of the old ones if I haven't been on them in a while) and every new board. And screaming and bitching about it is par for the course for me. Then I settle into the challenge of learning their nuances and what works and what doesn't. You should have heard me leading up to the HP5 comp in SL. It was ugly. LOL. But generally by the time the comp rolls around I am fine.

Unfortunately my practices were terrible. In each session I might make it to the beach once. Every other time, it was up and over! And frankly I expected the same thing to happen during the comp.

The day of the competition I was as nervous as I am before every comp, even though there were only 4 of us competing and a small group of spectators. I just was hoping not to embarrass myself too much and have at least one good run.  But seeing all those familiar faces made me feel a lot better and calmer. And all the usual encouragement and camaraderie that I have ever experienced in a surfing competition before was going strong here too.

On every wave I was talking myself through it, remembering Mari's pearls of wisdom. Start low on the wave, head away from the wave first, then weave. So I tried to be patient and wait for the wave to come to me. Not to stand up until I actually was touching the wave (even though Flynn was shouting in my ear GO, GO, GO!). Then it was "stay low," "go left, " "go right", "ack, too far," "left, left, left, " "ack, don't surf off the wave," "move, move, move, don't just stand there, you look stupid," "oh god, TURN, go down the wave," "DOWN, DOWN, DOWN," "crap, do a trick," well, you get the idea.

And don't ask me how it happened, but every wave I surfed into shore. Well, except the party waves, but we won't talk about those.

I felt the same adrenaline rush that I get while surfing in any competition.  Having all those wonderful, friendly, supportive people around made it so enjoyable. Yes, I won. But that wasn't the best part. (Okay, that was pretty exciting.) But honestly it was the people. That was the best part. In any world, VH, SL, RL - it is the company you keep that makes life enjoyable.

I couldn't have asked for a better group of fellow surfers - Colleen, Kako, and Melina - to be with. We had the best judges - Bobbi and Sally. Of course a wonderful EC - Mari. The wave and board inventor being our marshal - Kayaker - fit in so well. And those that just came to hang out, watch, and encourage - Flynn, Mick, Zadi, Eireen, Tiffany, logger, geez who did I miss? We just partied the whole time and had a blast!"

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Body Surfing In Virtual Worlds!!


You will not believe what Kayaker Magic just had me test here in Virtual Highway at Breakers Point-BODY SURFING!! Body Surfing will allow you to swim in the water on your sim in Second Life or Open Simulator grids. Your avatar is animated to crawl, glide or tread water. You can bodysurf on Ocean Engineering Waves, but if you run into an Ocean Engineering rock, you could get stuck until the next wave comes by to wash you off! Body surfing also allows you to swim in Ocean Engineering White Water Rivers. Body Surfing works as a "bodysurf base" vehicle that you can leave on the beach. It can be marked private or you can allow your friends to use them. It's COPY so you can leave several out for your friends and visitors. Do you live up in a skybox? Body Surfing also works at altitude! You can install one next to your skybox and swim out onto your water prim, into the air, or on "Sky Water" available from Ocean Engineering. Waves and other features will complete your skybox environment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o11VHrLf1aE
http://virtualhighway.us/ can be seen at his VH SIM Panthalassa home of Ocean Engineering
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SLSA Sim Fundraiser and "Surf Off" Mini Comp Coming Up Sunday!!!



Sunday July 29th
11:00am SL Time
Solace Dreams
Spectator Stands will be at Coronado Beach.

Music, dancing, surfing, raffle, and a little something new.
Nico will be our DJ for this event. Raffle boards will be up for a chance to win cool prizes, including clothes, jewelry, a Hyperwave, and Surfboard.

Mini-Comp will feature surfing in a "surf off" tie-breaker format. Each heat will be two surfers, each getting only one wave to see who moves on to the next heat. And because this is a fundraiser, and to keep things interesting, spectators will be able to bet on the outcome of each heat.

To enter the "Surf Off" sign up here:
http://surfslsa.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=2107
Entries will be limited to the first 16 surfers that sign up. If you are having problems signing up, contact the EC Bobbi Laval, or the Beach Marshal Sally LaSalle.

See you there !!!
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NOOB and NOW: Maxwell Silvansky

Submitted by Jimbo the Cart Boy

We all know that change can be good, especially when it comes to our personal appearances. Your friends at SurfWatch are excited to bring to you a new ongoing feature we like to call "NOOB and NOW". Today we proudly present to you, Maxwell Silvansky: 
Maxwell Silvansky - NOOB
Maxwell Silvansky - NOW

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming NOOB and NOW posting?
Click this link for instructions:
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Melina Horten V.H.S.A. Surfer Shares Her "Waves of Courage" Thoughts

We thought it would be interesting to see how the surfers all felt about competing in Virtual Highway and what it was like for them.  Melina Horten shared this with me which of course does make me smile.  Melina is one of those stories I just love, an unknown surfer who comes along and rises literally to the Top.    Congratulations Melina Horten!!  Here is what she had to say.

"Before coming to Virtual Highway I had never surfed a day in my life and I was pretty sure I didn't want to start.  But Marianna kept after me, telling me how much fun it would be, and I gave in.  The first time I made it all the way to the beach was awesome.  And Mari was right ..... it was lots of fun.

Then Mari said I had to enter the VHSA Waves of Courage competition.  Excuse me??!!??  Me, compete against experienced SL surfers?  No way !!!!!  But we all know how persuasive Marianna can be.  LOL

So there I was on the beach, waiting for the competition to start.  My stomach was doing flip-flops, my heart was somewhere up in my throat and my hands were shaking so bad I didn't think I could manage the arrow keys.  After I made the first wave though, I calmed down.  Until I made the finals ..... then the nerves started all over again.

I felt exhilarated once it was all over and can't wait for the next competition.  I do want to thank everyone who made my first time such a wonderful experience.......Cierra, Colleen, Kako, the judges Sally, Bobbi and Kayaker, Tiffany and Logger.  Most of all, I want to thank Marianna.......teacher extraordinaire !!! "




Melina, you simply RAWKED!!  Great Job!


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20 Questions: Surf Perspective - Sunrize Mornington

Submitted by Zelda Zimberman

20 Questions: Surf Perspective is part of a continuing series SurfWatch will be running as participants respond to Zelda's questionaire.

1. Name: 
Sunrize, Sun, Sunny Bunny, Sun Bun.... ROFL
2. Team: 
Montego

3. Surfing Since: 
2008

4. Favorite Board and why?: 
SSI short board. I just love the movement of it and it fits my body better than a long board. ;)

5. Favorite Wave and why?: 
Joaquina because it works well with short and long boards.

6. How did you come across surfing on SL and what was your first initial reaction to it?:  Maldrul Morris told me about SL and surfing in SL. So I signed up for SL and started checking out the surfing. It didn't take long to get addicted. LOL

7. Are you involved in the SLSA (second life surfing association) in any way? (competitions, events, etc.): 
I have been a director, judge and competitor.

8. What are your thoughts or opinions on the direction on the SLSA from 2012 and beyond?: 
I think the SLSA is going in a good direction. This season we have seen a lot of new surfers join and compete. The SL9B exhibit brought a lot of attention to the SLSA and a lot of people have been checking into the organization. I understand the reasons behind branching out with boards other than the SSI boards, even though my favorite will always be SSI, it is always better to evolve so that we do not get old and stagnant. I hope we have gatherings other than surf comps in the future. It is fun to hang out and party with the surfing community.

9. What do/did you find positive and negative about it?: 
The only negative thing I can think of is the communication between the directors and the surf community. Although the SLSA has improved in this area.

How would you like to see it improve more?: 
I know how hard the directors work. There is more to the job of a director than just sitting around and having discussions on the surf season. Saying this I would like to add one more, this would fall under the communication officers job, have a monthly communication telling the SLSA community what is being worked on. I feel keeping everyone informed would benefit the community as a whole. Examples would be: awards ceremonies, changes in rules or constitution, changes in boards or waves for upcoming events, recruiting event staff, how the SLSA home sim is doing financially and scheduling training classes. Not all people go to the forum frequently and sending out information to the entirety of the group would help keep the lines open between members and directors.

10. Do you compete in any surfing competitions SLSA or non?: 
Not with any other SL surf organization but I do surf in off season comps. I have surfed in the Tsunami tandem (one of my favorites! I miss them.) and Vibers surf events.

11. What do/did you find gratifying and dissatisfying about competitions?: 
Trying to get staff for the events. I don't understand why more people are not active in their organization. You are not penalized for judging. Marshalls get to surf just as the EC can choose to surf. It is fun to be involved and feel even more part of this wonderful group, more so than surfing alone.

12. How do you feel about the SLSA using non SSI boards for competitions? (ex; HP5, LSD, Action): 
My preference is SSI boards. I have little to no experience in the other boards. But I guess I need to get that experience. LOL Like I said branching out the boards and waves keeps us evolving. Just don't ever stop using ssi altogether. :) The only problem is in today's economy there are a lot of people that just can't afford to buy boards so rezzers would have to be used.

13. If you are currently inactively involved in competitions (surfing, judging, etc.) what was the reason for leaving? Would you want to come back and participate? Please explain your answer: 
Leave the SLSA? Not be involved? My computer would have to die first. But I have Maldrul to keep it running for me so I do not see that happening. LOL

14. What are your thoughts on the team dynamics? Is there a team you particularly like? Why?: 
Montego, of course. hehehehe I enjoy being co-captain. I love having practices with my team and chatting and just having a good time with all of them. I think teams are a good idea. Saying that I do not believe a person has to be a part of a team to enjoy the events. We are all extended family, a team is like the core family.

15. Is there anyone on here that particularly had an impact when it came to surfing, mentoring, and overall being a role model for you? Who and why? Please explain your answer: 
Lots of people! Maldrul introduced me to surfing in SL and gave me some of the basics, Mick held beginner classes that taught me even more. My first comp I recieved IMs from others that gave me tips to handle the board and wave. I watched others surfing and learned. Bobbi, Desi, Sally all gave tips from lag issues to how to judge. Just about any surfer, beginner to veteran will be happy to answer any question a new surfer would ask.

16. What was your favorite moment or memory on surfing here?: 
My first team was Livestrong. When it was dissolved I felt so lonely. Then I met Kohona and Robbin. We would surf the fluffs together and they taught me a lot about them. Then I joined Montego. That was the happiest day for me.

17. Is there anyone you know or knew that isn't active as much in surfing and would like to see come back? Who and why?: 
Socks Clawtooth. He was a good surfer and always had cute AVs. :)

18. Many people have strong opinions when it comes to SL surfing and RL surfing. What is your take on the comparison?: 
Seeing that I am not a RL surfer, sad but true, I can only compare by videos I have seen. There really isn't a way to make SL exactly like rl surfing. We can simulate it. I feel it doesn't matter if a person has never surfed in RL. There are a lot of reasons why one cannot surf in RL. SL gives those people a chance to at least have some experience and fun with surfing.

19. Do you have any advice for new SL surfers on here?: 
✿❤✿.¸¸.Have Fun!.¸¸.✿❤✿

20. Any other thoughts?: 
Don't get frustrated. If you are having problems surfing the way you wish to, ask someone. If they don't know the answer the odds are good they know someone that will.
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NOOB and NOW: Melian Catronis

Submitted by Jimbo the Cart Boy

We all know that change can be good, especially when it comes to our personal appearances. Your friends at SurfWatch are excited to bring to you a new ongoing feature we like to call "NOOB and NOW". Today we proudly present to you, Melian Catronis: 
Melian Catronis - NOOB
Melian Catronis - NOW

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming NOOB and NOW posting?
Click this link for instructions:
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Waves of Courage Video

Flynn Sheridan took so many awesome photos of the Waves of Courage Surf Competition and I wanted to share a few of those with you, so I made a small video.   Thank you very much Flynn.


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A Dream Realized


Sally LaSalle-S.L.S.A. surfs Virtual Highway


When I first came to Virtual Highway I didn't see it as a grid with few residents. Instead, I viewed it as all the possibilities that lie ahead for a new grid. All the wonderful attractions, entertainment and sports soon to come. I wanted to spend my time in Virtual Highway creating the attractions just as an artist would with his paintbrush. Splash colors of Entertainment, blending hues of sports if you will.

I have to admit business ideas took me away from surfing that I love so much. I hadn't forgotten surfing altogether at all, I just got busy with trying to survive.

Those plans didn't pan out so decided to try Virtual Highway grid. I have often spoken of how the grid owners Tiffany Magic and logger Sewell have been supportive in every venture but what you don't know I bet is, it was Tiffany herself that brought me back to surfing. She IM me asking what to name that new surf SIM of hers. I was flabbergasted because Opensim didn't have surfing that I knew of anyways, so to think of it as actually a place we can surf literally blew my mind.

I immediately let our Tauri Tigerpaw know and wheels began spinning faster than you can say SurfWatch.
So I searched YouTube and found Kayaker Magics video about making waves in SL. He answered my IM within minutes that day was like perfect timing and has been ever since.

We just celebrated our very first Surfing competition, “Waves of Courage” on July 21st this was a dream realized. Thank you to all who was supportive, inspiring, and contributing, for it was you too that made this dream realized.   
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Waves of Courage Proves To Be Huge Success!!


We cannot begin to thank everyone who came out today for the V.H.S.A. Waves of Courage Competition, it was a Great day for all of us!

Judges Sally LaSalle and Bobbi Laval worked with Kayaker Magic creator of Virtual Highway surfing and Marshall for the competition to fit the judging criteria with the surfing here in Virtual Highway. They decided to score the same as in SL (Second
Life)



In this first photo you see Sally LaSalle and Bobbi Laval and myself checking Sim stats prior to competition.




 Here we have Kako Wilder ready to take the first wave.




Melina Horten shows skill as she rides high up on the wave without going up and over, that is the most difficult to master with Virtual Highway surfing.



Cierra Theriac surfed flawlessly each and every wave,





The heart of Colleen Brennan amazes me, a
last minute entrant with virtually no time on the board, jumps on and makes it look easy!! Thank you Colleen for making this official with your surf chant :)
Ok no all i have to do is Haka and this is official:
Ka Mate! (Te Rauparaha's Haka):

Taringa whakarongo
Kia rite, kia rite
Kia mau, hi.
Ringaringa pakia
waewae takahia kia kino nei hoki
E kino nei hoki

ka mate, ka mate
ka ora, ka ora
ka mate, ka mate
ka ora, ka ora
tenei te tangata
puhuruhuru

nana i tiki mai
whakawhiti te rā
a upane, ka upane
a upane, kaupane
whiti te ra
hi


Melina Horten and Cierra Theriac with Marshal Kayaker Magic ready for final heat!
These two surfed impeccable, in the end, Cie took the gold!!  Congrats Cie!!  Melina a very special thank you for being so brave and taking on the challenge, you were the inspiration that gave me the name "Waves of Courage", for it was your very first surf competition on a surfboard few dared try.  You amaze me.




We had a very special guest show up and teach us all a thing or two!! Can you guess who this is? LOL that's right!
None other than Mick Lunasea taking the Virtual Highway waves!!












Today we had the first Opensim Surf Competition, guess what? It was HUGE success!! Thank you everyone and see you all at the next V.H.S.A. Surf Competition, in Virtual Highway. Remember to come practice :)

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Waves of Courage Competition Scores


Our Waves of Courage Competition was the most incredible time!! Thank you each and everyone for making Virtual Highway's first surfing competition so special. Here are the Scores!!

Red Kako 5.75
Blue Melina 13.25
Green Cierra 14.5
Orange Colleen 7.75

Then we moved to finals

Blue Melina 9.75
Green Cierra 14.25


Congrats everyone!! Congrats Cierra Theriac for winning the first Opensim Surf Competition Wooot!!
We will be posting photos soon.
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Virtual Highway Surfing Competition Today!!!

Nothing but fun!!!  Be sure to check out the newest grid of virtual surfing - Virtual Highway - today!!!


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Waves of Courage Heat Draws


The Heat Draws have been selected for the Virtual Highway Surf Association's “Wave of Courage” Competition:
When: Saturday-July 21st-2012-11 AM PDT
Where: Breakers Point http://slurl.com/secondlife/Breakers%20Point/123/158/22
Wave: Tube
Board: V.H.S.A. Commemorative fish board, 6 prims (five fins)
Kako Wilder-RED
Melina Horten-BLUE
Cierra Theriac-GREEN
Colleen Brennan-ORANGE
Virtual Highway http://virtualhighway.us/
Good Luck everyone !!
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20 Questions: Surf Perspective - Dax Verlaine

Submitted by Zelda Zimberman

20 Questions: Surf Perspective is part of a continuing series SurfWatch will be running as participants respond to Zelda's questionaire.

1. Name: 
Dax Verlaine
2. Team: 
Tsunami Team

3. Surfing Since: 
18 months

4. Favorite Board and why?: 
HP5 definitely because it's fast. I like. Also it manages the best. The other boards feel very slow.

5. Favorite Wave and why?: 
Depends. I like all but the important thing is the distance. Travel. To do some moves. But actually I like all the waves.

6. How did you come across surfing on SL and what was your first initial reaction to it?:  Surfing in SL has grown. For me it's excellent, especially people who are very good which to me is the most important. SLSA is an organization that's very well balanced. They are very concerned that things go very well. "OMG" was my first reaction. "Can I ride a wave?" But my friend Sunshine Zhangsun and I went to a store and bought my first board. Where it all started. But also Jordan, Colleen, Figger, Rick, Zelda, CK helped me a lot .

7. Are you involved in the SLSA (second life surfing association) in any way? (competitions, events, etc.): 
I am a photographer. I take part in two competitions and whenever I go to events to take pictures of surfers. I love this group.

8. What are your thoughts or opinions on the direction on the SLSA from 2012 and beyond?: 
My thoughts are good for what I said before. It's a very organized and disciplined group. It is also open to the views of others. And they listen to suggestions and try as much as possible for everything to go well. I have no negative opinion to the group.

9. What do/did you find positive and negative about it?: 
That anger on the fly. On development to make with respect to surfing on SL.

How would you like to see it improve more?: 
I would like to see more realism with boards.  I also think that they could make other arrangements such as putting obstacles in the path of the waves and avoiding them. I always think that. I would like to see the HP5 board work on the function of the wipe out. I would like to see two surfers compete on one wave without hitting one another.

10. Do you compete in any surfing competitions SLSA or non?: 
SLSA only. No other organization. I know of no organization.

11. What do/did you find gratifying and dissatisfying about  competitions?: 
I think comps are pure fun. Nothing daunting. I have not seen a death rivalry between participants. Compete to have fun and that's good.

12. How do you feel about the SLSA using non SSI boards for competitions? (ex; HP5, LSD, Action): 
I think it's good that its' opening to other types of boards. That gives the opportunity to people who do not use the SSI. Organization that is growing.

13. If you are currently inactively involved in competitions (surfing, judging, etc.) what was the reason for leaving? Would you want to come back and participate? Please explain your answer: 
I am not inactive. I am active on a daily basis regarding surfing. I surf everyday.

14. What are your thoughts on the team dynamics? Is there a team you particularly like? Why?: 
SLSA is very dynamic one can see that it works daily. Everyday they are reporting on various activities, and always at some point comes fun. And above all surfing is the ultimate goal. Very dynamic. My favorite team is team Tsunami. I belong to that team. Figger and Colleen  knew I wanted to be part of them and eventually I was part of them. I love this team, besides having the best surfer Wil Decuir.

15. Is there anyone on here that particularly had an impact when it came to surfing, mentoring, and overall being a role model for you? Who and why? Please explain your answer: 
Colleen, Zelda and Jordan also. Brody Bolero is excellent. I like the style of Lou. I love surfing. Although it is difficult to copy styles here each has their own style. CK Carver I forgot her style is unmistakable and has great charisma. But I love to watch them all surf and take pictures.

16. What was your favorite moment or memory on surfing here?:
I think it is definitely what happened in the last competition in Encinitas. I went to the semi finals with Wil Decuir. And then in the semi finals I tied with Lou and had to go to a sudden wave. It was very exciting. I think that's my best.  Above all the playoff with Lou.

17. Is there anyone you know or knew that isn't active as much in surfing and would like to see come back? Who and why?: 
I would like CK and Wicked Carver to return because they are very good surfers. They put flavor to the show and lately they have not participated. The real reason I do not know, but I would like them to return. And Colleen had not come back too but thank god for her return.

18. Many people have strong opinions when it comes to SL surfing and RL surfing. What is your take on the comparison?: 
No comparison. RL surfing is totally different. There is surf culture. Surfer mentality if you can match. But there is no question of execution compared. Many of us here are surfers in rl and are now retired and what better way to have the surfing then practice in SL.

19. Do you have any advice for new SL surfers on here?:  I would recommend them to integrate the group and always bring new ideas to improve the group :)). And continue practicing surfing because it's a great fun. And it's reaching people and surfing. There are very good ones like Lauren, Sarah, and her husband Alvaro. And I forgot my friend Petra Xaris.

20. Any other thoughts?: 
Hooray for SL surfing and congratulations to SLSA.
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Last Day to Register!

Graphic courtesy Marianna Monentez



Last day to register for Virtual Highway's first ever surfing competition!!!  Contact Marianna Monentez in VirtualHighway.us! 

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Virtual Highway Opensim Surfing Competition

Submitted by Marianna Monentez

I wanted to point out a few differences in Opensim Surfing
Competitions compared to Second Life (SL) Surfing Competitions.
Lets take it from the top, First we have the venue and a wave, SL
waves are physical bullets that push the boards towards shore.
Kayaker Magic waves send back-channel messages to the boards so that
the boards can figure out where the waves are and react in a physical
way.

Then we have the board.  Turns out the physics is all done in the
script inside the board. The opensim board is different than the SL
board as far as the dynamics of what can be achieved in opensim, yet
the board is still one you can ride and do a few tricks.  When
combined with a little style I feel you have a board you can compete
on.
The competitions in Opensim will be very much like what we have become
familiar with in Second Life.
The rider will have 3 waves.  The judges will judge those three waves
and depending on the scores, the top riders will go into the finals
where you will also be given 3 waves.  If there are no ties, the rider
with the top score of these waves will be the winner of that
competition.
Competition is what keeps us striving to become better and better.  It
is healthy and makes not only us but the waves and surfboards too
become better and better.
I think having opensim surfing is the best thing to have happen, to be
able to go to any grid and surf. When most counted our sport as
“dying” or fading, this to me shows it is far from dying in fact, it
has just taken on a whole new life.
Please join us Saturday July 21st, 2012-11 AM PDT- for the first
Opensim Surfing Competition.  It is history being made, we would like
you to be a part of that.
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SurfWatch is Here for You!

Want to tell the virtual world beach community about your new product or service?  Have a DJ or musical performance to promote?  Have a rental available?  Need a way to declare your love?  Or wish someone special a happy rez day?  Have something to promote?  SurfWatch is here for you!  And it's free

Have any ideas or suggestions about what you'd like to see in SurfWatch?  We'd like to hear from you! 

Stay in the loop on Breaking News by signing up with our subscriber in Second Life at SurfWatch Headquarters at the beautiful Alliance Surf Beach http://slurl.com/secondlife/Alliance%20Surf/211/202/26!  For other virtual worlds, connect with us on Facebook!

Contact Tauri Tigerpaw at Tauri.Tigerpaw@gmail.com and let SurfWatch get you in the loop!
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Virtual Excellence Awards

Reprinted with permission from Associationofvirtualworlds.com

Virtual Excellence Awards

If you would like to nominate someone for the AVW annual Virtual Excellence Awards and Virtual Person of the Year please submit your nomination to associationofvirtualworlds@gmail.com. Be sure to include a photo and brief bio of your nominee as well a few words about why you are making the nomination. Please don't forget to include contact information for yourself. (Feel free to nominate yourself!) If you would like to see what last year's awards site looked like please visit www.awards.associationofvirtualworlds.com. The finalists will be revealed on Virtual Worlds Day - August 20!

Looking for Leaders to Interview

We are looking for organizational leaders to interview for a new series called Virtual Leaders. The interviews are designed to showcase the innovative strategies of virtual leaders. If you would like to suggest an innovative virtual leader for this new series please contact associationofvirtualworlds@gmail.com.
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Moments from SLSA Final Competition Season 1 2012 #3

Photos courtesy Dax Verlaine
Submitted by Cierra Theriac

If you can identify the participants in these photos from the final Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) competition Season 1 2012, please add in the comments!








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SLSA End of Season Celebration

It was that time of the year where we brush the sand from our feet and dig deep into our inventory for dress-up clothes. Yes, I am talking about the ceremony to celebrate Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) Season One of 2012. Held in the ballroom at the Balboa Hotel, it was fun to see everyone all gussied up.

Many awards were given out and well-deserved. 

The Hall of Fame Awards:
Inductees: Leogarto Burt and Wilfred DeCuir
Season Top Performers: Abel Halderman and Sunrize Mornington

Angel Award: Sally LaSalle
Sportpersonship Award: Sunrize Mornington

Rookie Award: Petra Xaris

Team Awards: 
1st - Montego
2nd - Tsunami
3rd - Reef Riders

Top Ten Finishers:
1st - Abel Halderman
2nd - Sunrize Mornington
3rd - Bobbi Laval
4th - Jordan Mendle Halderman
5th - Zelda Zimberman
6th - Maldrul Morris
7th - Rayzza Rubble
8th - Damiana Babcock
9th - Cierra Theriac and Ashoka Moseley   (tie)

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VHSA Competition Preparation!

Photos courtesy Marianna Monentez

Virtual Highway Surfing Association (VHSA) member, Cierra Theriac, hits the waves at Breakers Cove, Virtual Highway, in preparation for competing in the first VHSA surfing competition!




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20 Questions: Surf Perspective - Lanky Silvercloud

Submitted by Zelda Zimberman

20 Questions: Surf Perspective is part of a continuing series SurfWatch will be running as participants respond to Zelda's questionaire.

1. Name:
  Lanky Silvercloud

2. Team:
Reef Riders

3. Surfing Since:
  June 2010

4. Favorite Board and why?:
Well it was my custom SSI but since the last comp at Encinitas the HP5 is now my favorite, after surfing on the HP5, going back to the SSI seems like surfing in honey. :P

5. Favorite Wave and why?:
The Teahupo'o ..it's a nice long ride, love the tube and a bit of fluffy at the end.

6. How did you come across surfing on SL and what was your first initial reaction to it?: I love the beach ..and surfing in rl and when I was about a month old in here a new friend told me about Braata beach and how there was surfing in here. I went there and met a girl called Bree who helped me get started. To be honest, my first reaction was like WOW. I was sitting at my keyboard with this silly huge grin on my face. Then I went to a surf a class held by Abel and Jordy Halderman. Jordy put me in Reef Riders and I was hooked.

7. Are you involved in the SLSA (Second Life Surfing Association) in any way? (competitions, events, etc.):
Ok, now I feel totally guilty. The answer is yes I'm a member, but as for getting involved ..not yet. I've been meaning to judge of course, but never seem to be online for any. My time zone and work hours have kept me from doing it. But I swore to myself that this year I will make the effort to do it. It's time I gave something back to the SLSA.

8. What are your thoughts or opinions on the direction on the SLSA from 2012 and beyond?:
I think the directors are doing a fantastic job. The time and effort they put into organizing the events is amazing and the comps just keep getting better and better. One thing I think would be good is if we had more beach parties. Not during comps, but just parties to let all the up and coming new faces get to know everyone and just chat and dance without the nerves of having to compete.

9. What do/did you find positive and negative about it?:
Well there was a brief time when there was some politics getting in the way, but I think now everyone is on the same page and in it for the same reason. Things are going great now that the comps are getting better and the number of new faces on the scene is great to see. Keeps us oldies on our toes.

How would you like to see it improve more?:
N/A

10. Do you compete in any surfing competitions SLSA or non?:
I love competing. I try to get in every comp but as usual rl interrupts sometimes. I still get a bad case of the shakes b4 every comp.

11. What do/did you find gratifying and dissatisfying about competitions?:
Hmm, ok...only thing I despise is when that old lag monster shows his ugly head. What I love is everything else :)..the surfing and especially the mateship between all the competitors etc. "WE ARE FAMILY.. *sings*.

12. How do you feel about the SLSA using non SSI boards for competitions? (ex; HP5, LSD, Action):
Well to be honest I think the SLSA is on the right track starting to use the other types of boards..it has to grow with new developments and broaden its' views to keep up with the times. The HP's, LSD's etc can be frustrating to people that are so used to the SSI's, but after the Encinitas comp I'm looking forward to more comps with these boards. It breathed some new life into the comps and was a lot of fun.

13. If you are currently inactively involved in competitions (surfing, judging, etc.) what was the reason for leaving? Would you want to come back and participate? Please explain your answer: Will never stop participating (smiles).

14. What are your thoughts on the team dynamics? Is there a team you particularly like? Why?:
Well being a Reef Rider from the start of course they are the bestest....but I think ALL teams are great and they all have a sense of family about them. We defend each other vehemently, but will also cheer on all other teams and their members. That is the whole spirit of surfing to me.

15. Is there anyone on here that particularly had an impact when it came to surfing, mentoring, and overall being a role model for you? Who and why? Please explain your answer:
Hmm,well everyone I met on the surf scene were always more than willing to help which I thought was so great. But if I had to pick a handful that really nudged me in the right direction to stay on a wave it would have to be Jordy Halderman, Bobbi Laval, Robbin Ember and Rayzza Rubble.

16. What was your favorite moment or memory on surfing here?:
My first ever comp. I was soo nervous I almost didn't compete lol, but did and ended up tying for first place. I was so shocked it was amazing.

17. Is there anyone you know or knew that isn't active as much in surfing and would like to see come back? Who and why?:
There's a couple I can think of that I miss. Dane Kutenai and Dan Numbanumba both are really nice and fun guys, and hopefully we'll see them back more in the future. But I think it would be great to see everyone who left to get back when they can and all them to see what a great direction we are taking this year.

18. Many people have strong opinions when it comes to SL surfing and RL surfing. What is your take on the comparison?:
Well I have to admit I loathed the HP5 board when I first got on it, but after many fights with it and being the stubborn person I can be I now think that riding it is more like rl surfing. You have to think about your ride more and plan it just like in rl. I hurt my back over 12 months ago and had to give up rl surfing, so surfing in here is my soul medication lol.

19. Do you have any advice for new SL surfers on here?:
Well all I can say to them is get involved, don't get disheartened by a bad ride, and most of all participate and have FUN.

20. Any other thoughts?: 
 I've been involved in a lot of activities in my time in sl and all good, but I have to say that the surf scene is by far the best. It's sad to see so many great surf sims closing lately but we really need to get behind the ones that still exist and help them to stay open. These people don't ask for anything. They don't put these sims up for themselves. They do it for us. So we need to do all we can to show we appreciate their efforts and give to them like they do for us.


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