Exploring the Wave Report - Crossing Sands

Sim Name: Crossing Sands I
SURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Paradise%20Meadows/214/196/23



Sim Owner:
LittleUnicorn Meredith

Type of Region:
Full/Adult

Wave type:
Maoli Tahiti, Swell


Loaner boards?
Maoli, Flow Rezzers

Can you rez your own board and if so how (i.e., rez area, requires group membership):
Yes, Open Rez

Group membership cost, if any:
Private Group, Crossing Sands. Not needed to use the beach


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SurfWatch Surfer Series: Aquadoc



SurfWatch recently had a chance to speak with Aquadoc, Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) Hall of Famer, Great Lakes Legend Surfer and Second Life (SL) competition surfer, at the beautiful Bundy Beach.

SurfWatch (SW): You came into Second Life (SL) in 2011.  Have you been here this whole time?  Or like me, have you taken a break and returned?
 Aquadoc (A): Yes, I have, averaging about 14 hours a day, 7 days a week, but I will be cutting back soon.  I just bought a farm in Real Life (RL) and need to get that set up.

SW: You have one of the more unique avatars - you didn't go for the typical.  Tell me how that came about.
A: Well, actually this is an avi [avitar] that started out as an alt [alternate avitar] and became my main avi.  When I bought my sim some years ago, I set it up as my home town in the year 2034.  So I created an alt that would look like me when that year arrives.  Also, my original young dude alt became too attractive to women and I could not get anything done, because of a bunch of gals pestering me.

SW: (Laughs)  Okay, I don't know if you're kidding me about the last part, but I love the idea of having a future alt - how creative!  So what brought you into SL originally?
A: I was invited to a wedding in SL back in 2010.  It took me 3 days to get to that wedding, and I managed to stumble in just before the ceremony wearing only boxer shorts and one shoe.  By the way, that is true about the younger, sexier alt (smiles).

SW: (Laughs) So where does the name Aquadoc come from?
A: Well, early in life my friends called me 'Doc' which is typical for those who are the sons of doctors.  When I lived and surfed in Mexico during the 1970s, the Mexicans added the 'Aqua' part on, and I became Aquadoc.

SW:  You're an RL surfer?
A: Oh yes!!  A Great Lakes surf legend!!  Started in 1963! 
http://www.sandhillcity.com/sb_eh_i_4.htm#Grand%20Haven%20%20Surf%20City

SW: Wow - surfed the Great Lakes in RL???
A: Oh yes!  The water can get up to 80 in the summer and usually holds above 60 into November.  I do have a very special shot of me that won the Eastman Kodak Sports Picture of the Year Award  shot in a contest in 1968:


That is also me reading Surf mag in a 1959 VW delivery van.  Drove it out to North Carolina on a surfing safari,   Parked it and camped right on the beach.




SW:  So from that background, you come into SL.  Did you find SL surfing right away?
A: Not right away, and it took awhile to figure it out.  My first 3 months in SL, I just sat in one spot and looked out over the ocean.

SW:  That sounds like me (laughs).  So what happened - you started wandering around or you deliberately sought out a beach?
A: My first day in SL, I was kidnapped by vampires and held prisoner on their island.
SW: Oh my gawd (laughing).
A:  Oh yeah, I think I found surfing by just searching around.  Then I got a beach bungalow at Monkey (Cove).
SW: Oh, yeah, in 2011, Monkey was still hopping, wasn't it?  The Aussie team still stayed there?
A:  Yeah, and I loved the Aussies.  I learned to like the Aussies in Mexico when I surfed there.

SW:  Did you see people surfing or you just grabbed a board and...
A: Petra (Xaris) was the one who really got me into surfing and the SLSA (Second Life Surfing Association).  I met her more though horse racing, though.
SW:  You met Petra and she got you started in competition surfing?
A: Yes, Petra did that.  But I was racing horses with her before that.  She kept telling me about it.

SW:  About when was it that you started competition surfing?
A:  Maybe about 3 years ago.  I had done some competitive surfing in RL with the GLSA  (Great Lakes Surfing Association).  I am the present director of the GLSA.
SW:   I love these classic pictures so much.
A: Yeah, that is 'old school'.
SW: Definitely but they rawwwwk!
A:  (Laughs).

SW:  What kind of board do you prefer to ride in SL nowadays?
A: I love that HP board from the rezzer and wish I could get one of those rezzers for my sim.  Too bad I can't.
SW:  I know, right?  Everyone wants one.
A: I'd pay to rent one.

SW: What about your wave preference?  Did you ever ride an SL Epic?  Or do you prefer the Maoli waves?  Or pipes...flufflies...
A: I love that wave at Solace now and the HP board, that is my favorite setup and most like real surfing.

SW:  Who if anyone in SL has had an influence on your surf style?
A: Hmmmm, well, you may notice that I do not like flips and all that crazy acrobatic gymnastic stuff. I want to keep it real.  So, I am not sure anyone has influenced me, but a number of the better surfers have helped me.
SW: Yeah, there's always been that tug of war between the SL surfers that want to keep it real and the ones that surf like a video game.
A: Yeah, it seems a bit insulting to surfing to have the flips and crazy stuff.  Surfing is an art form, almost a religion to some.

SW:  Do you knew where you are in the standings right now?
A: Well, my goal was to some day make the HoF (Hall of Fame), and I did that, so now I just cruise and stick with it.  I guess I might be 7-10 in standings.  Don't ever check that.

SW: Tell me about making the H0F.
A: I got it for my overall dedication to SL surfing, and how I treat the people around me.
SW: Congratulations, Aquadoc!  (Fist pump!)
A: Thank you!!  It was a huge honor for me!

SW: So do you have a goal with SL surfing?  I ask because it's fun when we follow up with surfers years later and see if they accomplished what they set out to do.  I know the HoF was a goal but you still surf, so maybe you have a secondary.
A: I would love to get my fellow Great Lakes surfers into SL.  I also want to make more surf movies!
SW: SL surf movies?
A: Yes.  This is one that I made a few years ago.  It is very crude, but a fun start and I have been in a famous RL surf movie "Step Into Liquid"





SW:  Is this filmed at your sim?
A: Yes.  Grand Haven Futuresurf.  Grand Haven, Michigan, is my home town.
SW:  Is your sim open to the public or is it private surfing?
A:  All are welcome at my sim.  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Grand%20Haven%20Futuresurf/247/141/22

Hopefully that is not to my daughter's skybox home!  (Laughs).  She asked me "Daddy, can I build a skybox home?"  2500 prims later she had her home.  Kids!!!!
SW:  (Laughs).  Who is your daughter?  Let's give her a shout out.


A:: Her name is Naomi Aquadoc and she is my SL daughter.  She is a UK/German living in Germany
SW: well honorable mention to your SL daughter!
A:  Wonderful person.


SW: You mentioned a shop - tell us about that.
A: Oh!  ha-ha! Aquadoc Waterbeds  established 1987on my 40th birthday.
SW:  There are waterbeds in SL?
A: No, in RL.  I did set up an SL shop once.  But I just bought a 40 acre arm in RL so now I'm focused on that.


SW: So besides surfing, you breed SL horses?  Anything else you do besides surfing and horses in SL?
A:  In SL I am a champion jockey, but in real life I'm kinda scared of horses.  I do bet horse races in RL.  That's pretty much it in SL.  That's enough.  I do some Civil War RP, and I race chariots at Roma



SW: (Laughs) You seem like your RL and SL mingle a little bit.
A:  Hard to tel the difference.  For many of us, RL is SL
SW:  That's true, especially if you spend significant time in here.  There's always that cross-over.


Is there something you would tell your 2011 self that you know today and you wish you knew then?
A: Yes, in fact I wish I could tell myself stuff only a few days ago (laughs).
SW: (Laughs).  Like what?
A: I've made mistakes in SL.  Well, occasionally you run into the wrong type of people in SL and I wish I would have handled that better
SW:  Give me an example - you might be helping someone else avoid a mistake.
A: Well, never be too quick to respond and keep your emotions in check.  Oh, best, too, not to drink while on the computer.

SW:  Anything else you want to mention?
A:  Yeah, avoid drama at all costs.
SW:  Thank you for your time, it's been a great pleasure to get to know you.  I hope we can collaborate on some future projects.  Want to go hit some waves?

























































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The SSi Longboard Competition hosted by Fairhaven is today!

Submitted by Solsty Kismet
Photo by Andin Kismet

Hello Surfers and SLurf fans.  Today is the day we've been waiting for.  The SL Surfing Association's monthly competition circuit brings us to the North Shore @ Fairhaven.

The competition will begin promptly at 1:00pm SLT where spectators and competitors are asked to meet in the stands. 

Join us for the most exciting sporting event in Second Life.  See professional surfers battle it out for the chance to take home the 1st place trophy.  We're only 3 competitions away from a season champion!

Competitors will find their rashguards, instructional notecards, and heat draws in the rashie packs handed out in the SL Surfing Association group notice.

All surf fans are asked to head up to the stands 15 minutes before the competition and remain there through the duration. Only competitors will be allowed on the shore during their respective heats. Please do not camlock on the surfers as lag is always a concern.

We look forward to seeing you on the waves or in the stands today @ 1:00pm SLT.

Spectator Stands: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Stratography/246/47/85

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Surfing En Vouge: Men's Edition

Submitted by Frankie Edon

When it comes to surfing in Second Life, you might think it is all about the waves but you couldn't be further from the truth. IN FACT, what you wear is not just critical for earning style points but it will actually impact the way you and others surf. Nowhere is this more true than during a competition and who better to talk to about this than two of the most stylish and competitive dudes on the water: Kris (KrisMarley) and Bodhi (Bodhi Lowtide).

I managed to catch both Kris and Bodhi between AFK sessions and testing the lag capacity of sims to talk a bit about what they wear and why they wear it.

Kris (left) and Bodhi (right), "Surf Casual"
Neither would fit into the "addicted shopper" category like so many residents in Second Life, but they do frequent random events and a few inworld locations.

With both Kris and Bodhi hanging around the beach, you'll find them dressed for the occasion. Simple board shorts is all you really need to fit the part; no shirt, no shoes, no problem. Flow. a favorite of Bodhi, makes some high quality gear that is beach orientated, comfy and functional.

"Surfing really requires minimal effort to get dressed for.  People think we like surfing, but really we just can't be "arsed" getting dressed." - Kris Marley

"I just wear what looks like something I'd wear (IRL). I rarely pull it off, but I try." - Bodhi Lowtide

Kris (right) Bodhi (left), "Surfing on Point," full mesh.
When you're out actually surfing, Kris has this to say about style, "I think you always consider your style. Change it up and surf in stuff you think looks cool. I think if you're feeling cool with what you're wearing and the board you are riding, then it rubs off on your surfing." I could not agree more. When you are out on the water, you want to feel good about yourself, the way you surf and have fun with it. Bodhi has a similar take on surfing and style but has more focus on surfing than style and you'll see this especially when he is in full competition mode. Bodhi says, "I don't always take into account what I'm wearing. If I'm itching for a wave, I'll got out in pajamas, doesn't matter." 


Bodhi (left) and Kris (right) in full competition mode.
When it come to competition day, throw out everything about looking cool and comfortable. Kris said it best, "Competition really just comes down to lag and rules on scripts." In competition, you are not allowed to wear anything that contains scripts because it will slow down the performance of the sim, yourself and other surfers. Mesh bodies, hair, clothes, and accessories are all thrown out the window in favor of system avatars and textured clothing. Shapes and sizes also come into play as the different boards will react differently and so some competitors like Bodhi go the extra mile throwing out all vanity.

"In full competition mode, I usually switch into it the night before the competition. That's when I feel like a true ladykiller. You can't touch me in full competition mode." - Bodhi Lowtide

With Kris currently being tied in 1st place and Bodhi tied in 5th place after two competitions this year in the SLSA, so far their take on shapes and styles in competition seem to be working. I for one don't go quite as far as Kris and Bodhi in competition which maybe explains why I don't rank quite as high as them, but to each their own. The take-away from all of this is to just do you and have fun whether on or off the waves.

See you on the water!

For more information about surfing in Second Life head over to SLSA @ Solace Dreams or The North Shore @ Fairhaven
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SurfWatch Surfer Series: Moonie Kismet

SurfWatch recently caught up with Moonie Kismet, Second Life competition surfer, dance and gesture creator of the popular MOON MADE brand, shredding the waves in prep for the upcoming Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) competition at Fairhaven.

SurfWatch (SW): You've been in Second Life (SL) since 2010!  What brought you in?
Mօօռίε Kἶʂოεէ (MK): Actually since 2006, this is not my original avatar.
SW:  How did you even hear about SL back then?
MK: What brought me in is a friend of mine in RL (real life) kept bugging me to make an account and try it out, so finally I did.  And I was hooked (laughs).
SW:  (Laughs) You said it just as I was saying it!



SW:  What hooked you?
MK:  All the people.  Getting to meet and to know people from all over the world.
SW:  I love that, too.
MK:  It really is very cool.
SW:  There's possibly no other way to meet some of these people.
MK:  Exactly.

SW: What did you like to do in SL back then?
MK:  Back then, I tried different role plays.  And used to be into the Flurby's.  They don't exist any more, but were a cute little breedable, like Teddybear-looking that was animated (laughs).

SW:  Did you leave and come back?  Or how did you make the transition to Moonie?
MK:  I have had a few small breaks, only because of RL issues here and there, but no, mainly I have been here.  It's my relax zone.
SW:  I hear that!  It's my distraction.
MK:  Right!


SW:  So how did you come upon surfing?
MK:  So surfing was my sister Solsty (Kismet) (Laughs) . We had done a bit of surfing a few years back on the old Action boards.
SW: I still have a couple of those.
MK:  Not majorly into it back then but recently I've come to be into it a lot.

SW:  So you've known Solsty for a looong time.  How did you guys meet?
MK:  We met at our SL job, a club, way back when she was new.  Like, her first month I met her.  Been through it all.  ♥
SW:  Awesome to have someone to share it all with, for sure.
MK: For sure!

SW:  Tell me about your ventures into surfing now.  How did you get involved?
MK:  Solsty was going to compete in the HP5 in 2017. I joined her and only practiced like an hour, and ended up getting 4th place somehow (laughs).
SW:  WOOOOOT!!!  (fist pump!)
MK:  But there wasn't a lot of people in it at the time. (Laughs)  "cheers!"  It still felt good.  And then this year, I've really gotten more into it.
SW:  How awesome is that with only an hour of practice!
MK:  Yeah, I'm really new at surfing, to compete, and now my goals are to get better on each board.

SW: Do you have a favorite board?
MK:  I do (laughs), and I can't believe it, because I hated this board when I first started using it, but my fave is the LSD.
SW:  What about that board do you like so much?
MK:  I love that the possibilities are endless.  You can do so much with it.  Now that I learned to control it, man, it's a blast.
SW: I might have to surf with you on it.  I'm old school SSi, and the LSD freaks me out a little (laughs).
MK: (Laughs)  Yeah, it took me a while, then one day it just clicked.  And I REALLY hated it to start.

SW:  Do you also have a favorite wave?
MK:  I don't have a favorite wave.  I really like them all, now that I have done a few competitions and had to try different waves.  I have come to appreciate even the older ones.
SW:  How about flufflies?
MK:  I love those too!  They add a little bit of flare for extra fun between other waves.
SW:  (Laughs) And they sound so cute!
MK:  I know, right? (giggles).

SW:  Do you know where you are in the current SLSA standings?
MK:  Umm, I think 18th?  I honestly am not sure, though.  Not great, but I will improve.  It's not about the placement.  For me, it's all in fun, and mainly improving myself.

SW: That's always my goal - do better than I did last time.  So where do you see yourself in, say, two years in surfing?  Or what do you think surfing will be like?
MK:  I see myself definitely still surfing, and one day I plan to master all the boards.  (Laughs)  I will never give up trying.  And the people you meet along the way are so amazing.  If surfing changes honestly it can only improve, and I will be here to try it out!
SW: I know - can you image VR (virtual reality) surfing?  We'll be wearing headsets and feel the water splashing in our face.
MK: (Laughs) That would be sooo awesome! I would definitely try it.  I like my VR headset.

SW: Has there been anyone who's surfing style has made an impact on the way you surf?
MK:  Wow, yeah, everyone has been so nice to help me and give me pointers along the way.  Solsty Kismet, Kris Marley, Richie Marley, Johnny Whadd.  They have helped me so much.  I really appreciate everyone's support.

SW: Any new surfers you've seen coming up the ranks that you think we should keep an eye on?
MK: (Laughs) Nah, I am not really paying attention to that, just enjoying the ride along the way.

SW: What do you do when you're not surfing?
MK: I make dances and gestures; shopping - I have a terrible shopping habit (laughs). I love exploring new places and watching movies in here, too.
SW: What was the last movie you saw in here?
MK: It was the Black Panther.  New Marvel movie.
SW: Get out - they showed it in here?
MK: Yeah, it's on my TV (laughs).
SW: Wow - was it good?
MK: It is!  Man, it's a great movie, everything I had hoped.  If you haven't seen it yet, you definitely should.

SW:  (Laughs) I have not, but I will now!  What are some interesting places you'd recommend people go check out that you've discovered?
MK:  Oh wow...umm, now your putting me on the spot (laughs).  Well, I cannot remember them all.  I usually go through the Destination Guide and the Editors Pics.  But also the Linden portal place has some games you can do, and my favorite from those is Horizons, a 5 level game you run through.  It's hard and so fun.  I am still stuck on the 5th level though.  Have yet to finish (laughs).

SW: Dang, I miss all that stuff.  I really need to check out that Destination Guide and some of those games.
MK: (Laughs) I'll take you sometime.
SW: Okay, we're doing that!
MK:  Yay!

SW:  Tell me about the dances and gestures you make.  How did you get involved doing that?
MK:  They were a lot of fun.  I have always loved gestures and then discovered the dances.  I used to have to hunt people down to get something made.  Then one day I was like thinking this can't be that hard.  So I did some researching and taught myself how to make them.  And now I make things friends request.  I am a mod in the I ♥ Gestures group, so I keep an eye on that when I'm on, and often get requests for new dances or gestures to be made.  I really love doing it.
SW: (Laughs)  So you're like, hmm, I want to do that, and you do it.  And I'm like, help!  I can't get a demo off my face!  That is awesome.  Do you have a shop or on MP (Market Place)?  What's your brand name?
MK: (Laughs)  I do.  I have an MP store and my brand name is MOON MADE.

SW: I love that.  So we can find you on MP under MOON MADE - I'll be shopping later today (laughs).  So is there anything I haven't asked or anything else you'd like to mention?
MK:  No, actually you are amazing at this it was a lot of fun!
SW:  (Laughs)  No, YOU are amazing - I really enjoyed it!

MK:  Oh, I am helping with the training class for the kids last week of this month that will be sooo fun.
SW: The Surf Camp for kids at Oasis of Life?
MK: YES!!
SW: SWEEEET!!!  Tell me about that!
MK: I am really excited about that.  I am going to be a trainer for the C-3.  That is all I really know, but I can't wait, I'm super excited.
SW: We're going to come and hang out and watch cause I can only imagine how fun it's going to be!
MK:  (Laughs) Yeah, it will be fun.

Happening now:
Lil Surf Camp
April 22 to May 5, 2018
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Azrael/225/67/27











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The Deadline to register for the SSi Longboard Pro Competition @ North Shore is Today!

Submitted by Solsty Kismet

Don't forget, SLurfers, the competition registration will close tonight @ 12:00am SLT.  All competitors hoping to make their mark at the North Shore Pro are asked to register at the below link.

Please read all the instructions carefully then cut and paste the proper format, filling in all relevant details.  A heat is the group of people you will surf with, so if you request an early or a late heat, you will be scheduled accordingly by the Head Judge, Cierra Theriac-Triton.

A special thank you from the SL Surfing Association to those surfers that took time out to teach others the delicate art of the SSi Longboard: Bodhi Lowtide and Gia Villano-Triton.

We look forward to seeing you all out on the waves or in the stands this Saturday, April 28th @ 1:00pm SLT.

Registration link: http://surfslsa.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=165&t=3867
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SLSA Fairhaven SSi Longboard Pro Competition - Who Will You Be Watching?

Submitted by Jus Strat


All sports have rivalries. Surfing of course had Slater and Irons and virtual surfing here in SL has one brewing and I don't think anything could be better for the sport. April 28th we enter the 3rd comp of the season the Fairhaven SSi Longboard Pro. The #1 spot for the season is deadlocked by two amazing surfers, Kris Marley and Johnny Whadd. These guys aren't enemies but I promise they want to beat the other, each and every wave, and so far it has given us some monster scores and a lot of excitement.

Johnny won the HP5 competition and Kris got the 2nd. They then flipped that for the LSD with Kris winning and Johnny getting the runner up spot. They will both turn it up a notch for the SSi to try and hold on the #1 as we hit the midway mark of the season. I can guarantee you they won't be overlooking anyone though as these surfers are not just talented but smart enough to know this is anyone's competition.

These two are obviously going to give us an exciting competition but SurfWatch wanted to ask them who they were going to be keeping an eye on that will be looking to dethrone the Kings.

Kris Marley - I think in SSi comps its wide open, you have people who have been surfing the board for years and know it inside and out, and now you have new surfers who are hungry as hell and practicing their asses off trying to win. Its gonna be real competitive and a close competition, I can't wait for it!

Johnny Whadd - Me. The only person I concern myself with is me and I'm continually working on improving with each competition.

Will it be a rookie or one of our legendary veterans that take home the top prize? Only time will tell but I can promise you it will be a hell of a show and the spectator stands will be full of people watching this exciting action unfold. Motel 6 might leave a light on for you but SLSA and SurfWatch will save you a seat. Come join us it will be a party you won't soon forget!

EDITORS NOTE: Placement of the spectators' area has not been determined at the time of this writing. It will be on Fairhaven. This guess at the location should be fairly close.  Competition registration must be made on the SLSA member forum.

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We're Baaaaaaack!!!

Manakai Reef Break
Who's watching the waves?  SurfWatch is back from hiatus and ready to rock!  Be sure to check on any stories you missed including the SurfWatch Surfer Series and Learning to Surf!  And check us daily for new content, events and announcements!  Join us on Facebook - Tauri Tpaw, our in-world SurfWatch group, or our in-world subscriber! Don't miss a single post!
www.SurfWatch.blogspot.com

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SLSA Competition Registration Opens!

Submitted by Solsty Kismet
Photos by Andin Kismet and Solsty Kismet
It's that time again SLurfers! Registration opens today for this month's SLSA surf competition.

The SLSA (Second Life Surfing Association) holds competitions for 10 months in a year. A year is divided into two seasons or five competitions each: February-June (Season 1) and August-December (Season 2).

Competitions are open to ALL SLSA members no matter what your level of skill or experience, (you don't have to be a Pro surfer to enter) :)

How to compete in the SLSA competitions
To compete you need to:
1. Belong to the SL Surfing Association group secondlife:///app/group/6555ac32-baa6-85ad-48c3-93c5a84d740a/about

2. Be registered as a member of the SLSA forum (www.surfslsa.org/forums). After you register, wait for activation of your account, which due to a number of bots registered before, is done manually by one of the SLSA Directors or forum moderators, after they check if you're a real avatar and belong to the SL Surfing Association group in SL. The activation should not take more than 24 hours. (if so ask one of the directors listed below in IM)
http://surfslsa.org/forums/ucp.php?mode=register

3. Watch for group notices and check the SLSA forum (http://www.surfslsa.org/forums) for news and
updates. Every significant announcement is done via group notice in-world, so don't worry you'll miss something.

4. After the registration is open (it's always the Sunday 13 days before the competition, on Sunday at 12 noon SLT) register at the SLSA forum by following the link posted in the group notice.
the competition Registration forum is at http://surfslsa.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=8
... (( what you do is press the [Post Reply] button for the comp registration topic, and give your Name, Team (if any, teams are optional, and any preference for an early or late heat))

5. Before the competition the heat draws will be announced, and you will receive a competition pack with rashguard (rashie)and important notecards to read (must read about rules n stuff!) in it.

6. At the competition you need to use the type of surfboard that was announced as required for the competition in the registration topic.

At all times the SLSA directors are at your service. Currently (until June 1st, 2018) the directors are: Cierra Theriac, Gia Villano, Kris Marley, Richie Di Vaio and Solsty Kismet. IM us anytime if you have any doubts or questions.

See you on the waves!



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SurfWatch Surfer Series: Richie Marley Di Vaio

Photos courtesy special guest photographer Wolf Torii


SurfWatch recently spent some time with Second Life Surfing Association (SLSA) Director and avid surfer, Richie Marley Di Vaio, practicing for the upcomig SLSA LSD surfing competition at Fairhaven. 

SurfWatch (SW): What brought you into Second Life (SL), Richie?
Richie Marley Di Vaio (RMDV):  Well, one good Real Life (RL) friend of mine played SL for years and talked to me about it and how fun it was.  So I came, took a look, and here I am (smiles).
SW:  (Laughs) It is addicting!
RMDV:  Very!  Especially after you discover surfing in SL, lol.

SW:  Rofl, I was just gonna ask that!  You could do this interview without me (laughs)! So tell me how you discovered it.
RMDV: Well, with time I started to explore SL to see what I could do.  I tried sailing, flying airplanes, did Coast Guard RP, until I found the surfing.

SW:  How long did it take you to hit on surfing?
RMDV:  Not much time.  Actually it was one of the first activities I did in SL.  I surfed for a couple of months, and I got away from it.  Then last year, 2017, I came back, and I don't want to go away from it anymore (smiles).

SW:  So you stepped away for awhile?  What were you doing in that time?
RMDV:  Yes, I did.  I guess in 2013 I stepped away a bit.  At that time I was more busy with my RL so couldn't spend much time online.  And the time I did have, I was with my two best friends in clubs.  We also ran a club as well, so I was more into the clubbing and DJing, etc.

SW:  Did you find surfing difficult to figure out or was someone there to show you, or are you just a natural?
RMDV:  The first time I was into surfing in SL, I had to figure it all out by myself.  But I found the SLSA and started to understand how SL surfing was organized.  However, in 2012/2013, I never entered in SLSA or comps.  I was just surfing as a hobby.

SW:  How did you discover competition surfing?
RMDV:  I discovered competition surfing when I found out SL had a surfing association but never was into it.  Then last year, 2017, when I got back to surfing, I started to learn and get to know more about competition surfing.

SW: Are you a competitive person in RL?
RMDV:  Yeah, I am (laughs).  However, I think I can be competitive in a healthy way.  I like competition and feeling the pressure of it when it's healthy.
SW:  Like more of an "I can make myself better" kind of competitive?  My drive in surfing was always to surf better than I had before.
RMDV:  Yeah, exactly.  I always push myself to do it better and better and work on my weaknesses.  However, I also like the feeling of competing with someone else, too.  But the focus is personal always.  Do it better then I did last time, for sure.

SW:  How long have you been competing in SL surfing now?
RMDV:  Since December 2017.  It was my first SL surf comp.  It was the last one from 2017, season 2.  And then 2018 season 1, I'm fully 100% focused.  Already did the first comp, HP5, and the second, LSD.  Practicing now for the SSI competition (smiles).

SW:  Do you have any idea of your current ranking?  Or how have you been placing in the comps so far?
RMDV:  So far I was in 8th position in ranking, but I haven't checked it yet after the LSD comp. We (the SLSA) are still working to update the rankings.  But in my first comp ever, 2017 LSD, I was in 6th or 7th.  Don't exactly remember (laughs).  2018 season 1, HP5, first comp I finished in 8th and LSD second comp finished in 3rd.

SW: Nice jump!  It's so dependent on the board and waves and where your skill lies.  What would you say is your favorite board to date?
RMDV:  Well, I would say LSD. I also like C3 and HP5. Actually it's funny.  I hated HP5 in the beginning with all my heart but now I kinda enjoy it (laughs).

SW: Do you have a fave wave?
RMDV:  To be honest, I'm still learning the different waves.  Maybe soon I can answer that (laughs).

SW:  Is there someone currently surfing you try to emulate?  Or maybe someone that has had a big impact on your surfing style?
RMDV:  Hard question (laughs).  Well, I would say so many names now.  There are so many good and pro surfers in SL.  Especially the veterans, the legends.  They rock those waves surfing. It's so good and satisfying to see pros surfing.  It makes me really wanna learn a lot with them and surf like them. Since I got into surfing, there are sooo many people that already helped me with by giving good hints and teaching me, but I would like to say that Kris Marley, Sol (Solsty Kismet), Bodhi (Lowtide), Frankie (Edon), Gia (GiavannaMarie Melody), Tyler (Peace), those names mean a lot to me because they are the one always supporting me and helping me with my surfing.  So I can say they have a huge impact on my surfing since the beginning. There is also much more people who certainly do it and if I forgot their names now, I'm, sorry guys, you are amazing! Moonie (Kismet) as well, Shi (Shilow Carter), damn, and so many people (smiles).

SW:  It's impressive you got into a leadership role as SLSA Director being so new to competitive surfing.  How did that come about?
RMDV:  Well, since I started surfing in SL, I always felt like I wanted to help and get involved with it, so I have been trying to be more and more involved in surfing and with the surfing community.  But if I became director, I have to thank you to Solsty and Kris.  They always supported me and they are the one of the reasons I applied for it. Plus I want to help surfing in SL develop and make it fun for everyone who wants to try this activity in SL.

SW: I was a director back in 2008/2009 somewhere, and I remember the challenges even though it was a different time.  Any particular challenges you are facing now as director?
RMDV:  Well, it's only been one month since I became one of the five directors, but so far I guess the big challenge is really the people.  We all have different tastes, opinions, ways to think and act and sometimes that can be hard to manage.  But we are here to make things run quite well for everyone and so far I think SLSA is doing an amazing job.  We should be proud, everyone from SLSA staff, directors to surfers and the community.

SW:  I like to ask where people would like to see themselves in two years because it's fun if you stay in surfing and I interview you again in two years, to compare what you said then to where you actually go.  I don't know if you followed The Legends series in SurfWatch where we've been able to follow some of the early SL surfing pioneers over a longer period of time.  So where do you see yourself in relation to SL surfing in two or three years?
RMDV:  Well, in two or three years, I hope I still see myself into surfing, having fun, enjoying with this amazing community people that I hope are still here in two or three years as well.  I see better conditions for everyone, more development.  We will keep working to make it happen, So these are my hopes and vision for the next years

SW:   When you're not surfing, what do you like to do in SL?
RMDV:  Well, I'm laughing at that question because surf has been my SL lately - 100%.  I love this surfing, the people, so I have been very much into it (laughs).  Okay, I sneak sometimes to see a good DJ set in some club.

SW:  Tell me about that!  What kind of music do you like?
RMDV:  I listen to everything.  I love reggae, rap, hip hop, R&B.  I also love clubbing musical genres -  house music, deep house, progressive house, techno, tech house, etc. (laughs).

SW:  Nice!  Okay so is there anyone else you want to mention?  Or something I forgot to ask you about that you'd like to add?
RMDV:  Also a big support are my best friends, Liam (Damas) and Sina (Sinakichi).  They are not into surfing but they make every competition I am in to support me.  They been amazing.  Also thank you my colleagues and friends, the other four SLSA Directors, Solsty, Kris, Gia and Cierra (Theriac).  They been amazing with everything and helping me so much with the director role. I have learned so much this last month with them so a huge thank you to them for everything they are doing to help me!  Also congratulations with SurfWatch.  You guys do an amazing job to our surf community.










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Learning to Surf in SL

submitted by Frankie Edon



For those of you out there aimlessly wandering Second Life (SL), stop what you're doing and head to The North Shore at Fairhaven, or HummingBird Point. It's time for you to discover surfing. You'll not only ride just about every board out there on these two sims but also meet some of the most friendly surfers around.

I've only been hanging around the surf community since January 2018, and in the last 4 months, I've gone from being thrown on a board with a crash course in the basics, to competing, teaching and now writing about surfing. It's become my biggest passion in SL, and I love nothing more than introducing people, especially longtime friends, to the sport.

Checking out the waves and getting a lesson as the lesson begins
Recently a friend of mine, Nina (Nina Nightshade), came back to SL from a long hiatus and was getting the lay of land, seeing who was where and what people were doing. Seizing the opportunity to share the waves with another person, we made a plan to meet up and surf.

When the day came, Nina decided to leave the Swimmies on the beach and trust in my passion and guidance. She had only ever seen surfing, taken photos of people doing it but never tried to surf herself. We've known each other for years now, and I know what she can handle so I threw her on the HP5 straight away, similar to but not exactly the way the owner of HummingBird Point, Shi (Shilow Carter), did to me.

Paddling into the first wave of the day
Riding smooth on her first wave
When teaching new people how to surf, I will try to break it down as simply as possible. Ask what controls/keys they use, then get them first moving and turning on a board before breaking into advanced maneuvers and tricks. Nina did say that it was, "sort of overwhelming at first, but it made me even more curious, and I couldn't wait to try it myself."   I kept rattling on different instructions in chat but then also would take the time to demonstrate everything I am talking about and a bit more. As Nina said, "watching a demonstration helps to get an idea what you can do, but doing it yourself is different." I think that right there is the key.  Give the student some guidance and show them what they can do. You want to inspire a love and give them a challenge so they keep at it.

Learning the handstand on the surfboard
As the morning progressed, it was obvious Nina was a natural. Turns, tricks, airs and control of the HP5 were all coming through. She was motivated and excited to keep at it, "it's a nice change from what you usually do.  More active and something you can practice while having a good time with friends."

Isn't that what it is all about? Spending time with an awesome community? Being part of a team? That's truly when everything is awesome.

At the end of the day, I asked Nina about what she would tell the person who is new to Second Life, spends their time wandering aimlessly through terrible clubs, nude beaches and asking people for lindens, about surfing. "Well... there's more to Second Life than terrible clubs and for surfing you don't need a single linden. So, beach and surf more, worry less. I wish somebody would have kidnapped me to a beach and shown me surfing earlier."


I, too, wish that someone would have taken me surfing earlier on in my Second Life but I am glad I finally found it and have not been happier since. The community, the sport, the fun, and just everything about it is what I have been searching for in my 11 years on the Grid, and now that I've found it, I'm not going anywhere.

See you on the water!
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