I was once again lucky enough to be invited by Quiksilver out to Tofino for a few days of Stand Up Paddle Surfing.
I was also asked to be the guy that brought out enough boards for everyone to paddle (might be the reason I keep getting invited).
So I loaded up the Sprinter Van and headed out on what would end up being a 3185 km round trip.
First stop was Kalamalka Lake just outside Vernon, BC for the Kal Klassic race put on by Kalavida Surf Shop.
I managed to get in a few good paddles on Friday evening and early Sunday morning – and then the rain came.
I helped out at the event – and although the weather was not the nicest – the event went well.
After offering up my van for shuttle service for the distance race on Sunday, I made the trek out to Tofino.
There is something cool about taking the Ferry – especially when you get a “front row” spot.
After the Ferry ride it was back to driving. I arrived in time on Sunday night for the Quiksilver movie night on a giant inflatable screen in the Live to Surf parking lot.
The next few days were a nice pattern – get up – eat – go surf – eat – surf – hot tub – adult beverages – eat – sleep . . . and repeat.
Then came the drive home – After an early morning surf session and another ferry ride – I decided to take a short cut and headed up through Whistler / Pemberton / Lillooet / Kamloops – and then home. It was much shorter / less traffic / and more scenic.
Made it to Blue River before pulling over to sleep – which was done on an air mattress, on top of a Starboard inflatable sup, on top of 12 other sup boards. The Sprinter van really does rule.
Made it home without any incidents (thanks to 4 deer whistles) – took a shower and headed to work.
Thanks again to Quisilver for a great time . . . they really do understand why we all do this . . . to have FUN!
Some photos from the trip:
