Honolulu, HI (PRWEB) July 29, 2013

Paddleboarders in the 17th annual Molokai-2-Oahu Paddleboard World Championships (M2O), presented by Kona Longboard Island Lager today were engaged in a game of chess with the ocean as they tried to maneuver through wind and water that seemed to constantly counter every move they made in an effort to push away from the island of Molokai to the finish line on Oahu.

http://vimeo.com/71228462#at=0

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The video fired me up…but I have no idea where they came up with 22 miles.  Last year, at 28 miles, we had only just reached the West End of Catalina and I was gassed.  When Chris B. said that we “only had four more to go,” I wanted to cry.  Except I wanted to beat some guy that looked like Wolfman Jack so much more…

This is so happening again…prone…OC-1?  TBD.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bDKs-wutCc

Who’s up at 4:45?…came home to dinner wrapped in plastic?  Worked until 12:03 a.m.?  Who is still fighting?

This image about sums it up for everything I like about paddleboard racing.

1. This is not a sprint race; it’s the beginning of a 22 mile channel crossing, but everyone in it looks like they’re out for blood.  Seriously out for blood.
2. The Redondo Rocket trading paint (“ramming speed!”).
3. DJ looking like she could can-opener your head off with her arm (note: she can).
4. Aussie traveling over to just to make you look bad by making it look easy (nice new board too!).
5. Up-and-comers who will, no doubt, breathe down your neck in 3…2…1…
6. Max checking out for what will be an inspired paddle — hell, the guy isn’t even the picture!

Everyone…feet up, getting after it, and having a good time.  I don’t need a ‘motivational’ poster or video; I have these folks.

Doctor has me on meds to stave off walking pneumonia, coughing, and fatigue…good time to sign up for back to back races: Newport Pier 2 Pier Swim (2m) and the Zahn Waterman in Malibu on Sunday (10m).  Perfect idea.