Bob will be heading up a crew of paddlers to paddle the entire 80 mile length of the Okanagan Lake… See if you can match that!

Here’s Bob’s remarks on the importance of the day, and how you too can help to make a difference:

“Sending a “SUPWave of Change” around the World”

My name is Bob Purdy, I am a Standup Paddle Surfing, Elder in Training, Outstanding Somewhere…….. In 2011 I paddled my Standup Paddle Surfer every day to raise funds for the “David Suzuki Foundation” and to “change the way we live on the planet”.

I discovered that we are facing many of the same challenges in 2012 that we did last year. And the year before that. And the year before that. Etc. Etc. Etc. I find it very difficult to stand by and watch the same challenges surface year after year which is why I will “Paddle for the Planet” again every day in 2012. The call to action is urgent, the Planet is crying out for help! The challenges we face socially, economically and environmentally in today’s World are staggering, and just like all life on the Planet, intricately connected! Have we forgotten that all life is precious? Have we become disconnected from the Natural World that is our home? Have we affected the planet’s ability to sustain life? Could we do better for the planet, and for each other? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then action is required!  It is time to “Change the way we live on the Planet!”

I have also discovered that as a group, Standup Paddle Surfers tend to be a proactive group of people! What better way to “Change the way we live on the Planet” than to create an opportunity for paddlers around the World to paddle for the change they would like to see?  “World Paddle for the Planet Day” is June 16, 2012 and has been created to give Standup Paddle Surfers around the World an opportunity to paddle for change by sending a “SUPWave of Change” around the Globe! Here is the plan! One, choose a change you would like to see happen in the World. Two, paddle for that change on June 16^th. Three, commit to that change until it becomes reality! It could be something as simple as spending the day cleaning up your local beach, or as ambitious as joining a movement to stop an activity that is harmful to the planet. Paddle by yourself, or organize a group to send out a stronger “SUPWave of Change!” It’s simple, more paddlers, in more places around the World equals bigger change! For my part I will paddle the length of Okanagan Lake in B.C. Canada where I live, a distance of about 80 miles. The change I want to see revolves around consumption, and I will definitely be inviting paddlers to join me!  We need to rethink the way we consume and reduce what we buy, the Planet needs a break from our constant need to indulge!

The “David Suzuki Foundation” has done a lot to “Change the way we live on the Planet” and I will once again fundraise to support their amazing body of work! The Foundation could really use our help in the World and I invite all paddlers to join me in collecting pledges/donations to help Dr. Suzuki achieve his goals for change at www.davidsuzuki.org. Donations are gratefully accepted on our web site www.paddlefortheplanet.ca , just click on the donate button. Every penny will go directly to the “David Suzuki Foundation!” Please join me on June 16^th to make “World Paddle for the Planet Day” an outstanding event for change in 2012! Organize a happening, go for a quiet paddle, join your friends or paddle solo, whatever you do let us know! Contact us on facebook at Bob Purdy with details of your paddle!

One Person is the Difference, Stand up and be that Person!

Check out PaddleForThePlanet.ca for more information!

As impressive as his feat of paddling 365 days in a row may be, Bob has just announced that he’s continuing his initiative straight through 2012, with plans to making it 730 consecutive paddle days!

And on Saturday June 16th, 2012, Bob is also organizing “World Paddle for the Planet Day”, which will be comprised of a variety of events throughout the World. Keep tabs here and at PaddleForThePlanet.ca… Details will be released as they become available!

Here’s the news release:

Life is a precious gift! All Life is interconnected! Is that connection lost, and have we affected the Planet’s ability to sustain Life? The evidence says we have, and indicates we need to “Change the Way We Live on the Planet”!

The challenges we face socially, economically and environmentally in today’s World  are staggering, and just like all life on the Planet, intricately connected! The decisions made, and actions taken in the past have affected all life on the Planet. Our future decisions and actions will have no less impact. The question we need to ask ourselves is “How can I change the Way I live on the Planet now for generations to come in the future”?

My journey down this road began several years ago when Sharon and I began contributing to the “David Suzuki Foundation”. Fast forward to 2007 when I discovered the sport of “Standup Paddle Surfing”! In spite of breaking my nose in the surf of Florida my first time out, I knew I had found something very special that would become a lifelong passion, something I wanted to share with everyone! Fast forward again to 2010 where I found myself wanting to do more for the Planet. Shortly after I started paddling I told Sharon, “I would paddle every day if I could” and so I decided to combine my passion for paddling with the discovery of things I could do to “Change the Way I was Living on the Planet”. A few phone calls to the “David Suzuki Foundation” later and,  voila, “Paddle for the Planet “was born on New Year’s Day, 2011!

I had three goals in 2011; 1) challenge myself personally by paddling all 365 days of 2011,  2) raise $100,000 in donations for the “David Suzuki Foundation” to support their amazing work, and 3) challenge and change the way I live on the Planet. My experience in 2011 made me realize that lasting change takes time and effort.  So, just like the challenges of the planet, my personal efforts will continue.  On New Year’s Day, 2012, I will dip my paddle into the water again to continue the consecutive daily paddle I started in 2011! Fundraising, and searching for more ways to “Change the Way I Live on the Planet” are priorities once again! Since there are few people who have created more change for the Planet than Dr. Suzuki, “Paddle for the Planet 2012” will once again donate every penny raised to the “David Suzuki Foundation” in support of their body of work!

In addition, I invite you to watch for a very special paddle in June, the 1^st Annual “World Paddle for the Planet Day” which will take place on Saturday, June 16th. This event has been created to encourage Standup Paddle Surfers all over the World to paddle for the “Change” they want to see!” For my part, I will attempt to paddle all 80 miles of Okanagan Lake in one day! I will be paddling to change the devastating impact our consumptive ways have on the Planet! Join me, and paddle to “Change the Way We Live on the Planet”!

My name is Bob Purdy and I am a “Standup Paddle Surfing, Elder in Training, Outstanding Somewhere!” I paddle 365 days a year because the call to action is urgent! Our Planet is crying out for help! I encourage you to answer the call! Start today! Make a donation at www.paddlefortheplanet.ca or www.davidsuzuki.org , support a project you are passionate about, start a project of your own, Or?……….

One person is the difference, stand up & be that person! If I can do it, you can do it!

Congratulations once again Bob… It’s been great following your journey thus far, and wish you the best of luck in continuing your efforts!

Staged on one of Canada’s most pristine and scenic lakes, The ‘Kal Classic’ features a mix of races and events for all ages and levels including several Father’s Day activities. It’s a great chance to try the sport and a race or two just for fun.  For those competitive types, they will have the chance to race for the title of King and Queen of Kalamalka – A new 3-event race format that promises to keep everyone on their feet… well, almost everyone.  On Saturday evening, enjoy a casual evening with dinner, supplied Nature’s Fare Markets and then sit back and watch the premiere of Norm Hann’s ‘Standup’ movie premiere. Good times for all.

“With SUP experiencing so much growth, we’re stoked to have the support of Quiksilver to promote the event nationally and internationally, said Kevin O’Brien, race director. “It’s the kind of event that brings the rapidly growing SUP community together and Quiksilver Waterman’s Collection will be a big part of that growth this year” adds O’Brien.

Quiksilver Waterman’s Collection will have a significant presense throughout the weekend, where they will provide event T-shirts, prizing, branded tents and buoys and much more. With a format that is spectactor friendly, Quiksilver will have the opportunity to connect to a large group of athletes and fans alike. “We are really excited to be involved with the Kalamalka Classic, SUP is growing so fast in Canada and we are proud to be supporting it.” added Dario Philips – Quiksilver Canada’s Marketing Manager.

Live updates will be available throughout the weekend throughout the weekend on OKSUP.com, Paddlesurf.ca and look for post-event coverage in Standup Paddle Magazine.

The event is co-sponsored by Naish, Werner Paddles, Rogue SUP, Surftech, Dakine, Ocean Minded, Nature’s Fare Markets and Vernon Speedpro Signs, and presented by Quiksilver Waterman’s Collection. See full details and register at www.kalamalkaclassic.com.

About Quiksilver Waterman Collection

Quiksilver waterman collection is the fine assortment of men’s outdoor sportswear, refined and reflective of our deep boardriding roots. Meticulously crafted from choice fabrics and trims, it meets the evolving needs of the global waterman’s lifestyle with a sophisticated blend of coastal culture and authentic purpose.

Kelvin was in top form, racing his incredible hand build wooden race board to a strong first place finish amongst the small but enthusiastic group of twelve paddlers.

If you live in the Okanagan area, Shaw Local Television was out with a camera crew to document the event, so be sure to keep an eye out!

Here are the results, and a few photos courtesy of Kelvin.

A few more photos can be found over at OKSUP.com as well.

Unlimited

1. Kelvin Humenny, Vancouver – 1:23:54 (Unlimited 18′)
2. Bob Purdy, Kelowna – 1:45:27 (Unlimited 14′)

Stock 12’6 and Under – Men

1. Wade Anderson,Vernon – 1:40:41 (12’6 Under)
2. Kevin O’Brien,Vernon – 1:43:03 (12’6 Under)
3. Chris Hromek, Kelowna – 1:45:28 (12’6 Under)
4. Stefan Idzan, Kelowna – 1:48:35 (12’6 Under)
5. Ken Rymer, Kelowna – 1:51:21 (12’6 Under)
6. Peter Dodenhoff, Peachland – 1:56:04 (12’6 Under)
7. James Wood, Kelowna- 2:01:39 (12’6 Under)

Stock 12’6 and Under – Women

1. Tina Hoeben, Penticton – 2:01:20 (12’6 Under)
2. Pam Young, Penticton- 2:19:45 (12’6 Under)
3. Natalie Wood, Kelowna- 2:25:08 (12’6 Under)

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

Kalavida opened up in May of 2010 as a SUP-specific shop for the Okanagan region and beyond. It took 3 months and countless loads reclaimed wood, tin roof and supplies to get the shop ready for action. It was modeled after those quaint n’ quirky surf shops you find in Hawaii and was built using as much recycled materials as possible.

We just kinda fell in love with the sport during the summer of ’09 and a series of coincidences and good fortune helped us make the ultimate decision to turn our passion into a business. After spending the last decade marketing BMX in the US and Canada, I was finally able to put those skills to work for our own project – and Kalavida was born! Kala is one the Hawaiian Huna principles that means go with the flow or hang loose so that was a perfect fit given that the First Nations have a Hawaiian connection in the Okanagan. We really wanted a connection to our region so the name was perfect.

When and how did you first find out about Stand Up Paddleboarding?

I had seen the sport for the last couple of years through guys like Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama and others but never really thought much about what it would be like on the lakes. I saw it in Mexico in the winter and showed it to a few friends as well. We picked up boards early last year and it just kind felt right from the first time we stepped up so to speak. It truly is one of the most versatile sports I have ever been involved with. Shortly after our first paddle on Kalamalka Lake, we took the summer off and drove around BC to paddle in all kinds of lakes and rivers. BC is one amazing place for SUP and we are blessed to be on the shores of Kalamalka Lake

When did you start carrying SUP related products in your store?

May 1^st. We took a fairly big gamble that the sport would have a break-out year and even before we had opened our doors, we could tell that there was some interest out there. We started off with Surftech, C4 Waterman and Rogue and I can remember looking at our shop in early May and wondering whether if the timing was right – luckily it was and we continued to add brands like Kialoa, Werner, Sitka and Ocean & Earth.

What sort of growth have you seen you started selling SUP related products?

We beat our forecasts!

What are your top selling board brands and models?

The Rogue All-Rounders did very well but we ran out of boards in early July and so did the company. Surftech ‘Laird’ Tuflites and softops did very well along with C4′s Holoholo and their inflatable iSUPs.

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

It was interesting….. Werner came out strong in the first part of the season and then Kialoa ruled the second half. We had a good response from the people at the Vernon Paddling centre and they love their Kialoa.

What are your most popular SUP related accessories?

The basics like rail tape, rack pads and leashes were popular. The Ocean & Earth board bags did very well along with Rap Rax (Soft roof racks) the Dry Case for iPhones and such. Later in the season, EZ Plugs and attachments came on strong as people progressed through the sport (and because of Transport Canada). We expect booties to come into season very shortly

If there was one accessory you’d suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be…

A board bag for travel. I held off for a year but swear by it now. Keeps your ride bug free, ding free and surrounds your board in mystery.

Do you offer additional value added services?

Information and advice – Since flatwater is still ‘new’ on the SUP radar, we made sure that we educated everyone about the boards, their features and which ones worked best for flatwater. One of our main focus points was to let people know how versitile the boards really are. A common question was “so all you do is paddle”?, so we had to find creative ways to paint a picture for people and many of them were pretty stoked to hear that you can take them on the rivers – The Shuswap river near our shop is amazing and this will become a big category next year.

Try before you buy. Rather than outfit our rental fleet with safe boards, we had a mix of all types of boards so that potential buyers could try out a number of them before making their purchase. The Surftech ‘Laird’ and C4 Holoholo and ATB sold well because of this.

We worked with customers to provide rail tape applications at no charge and we were pretty diligent about making sure paddle lengths were right for each customer.

We offer ‘Intro to SUP’ classes throughout the spring and summer for those who want to get more out of their first experience and we started doing River SUP tours in the late Summer.

Most of all, we live the sport so you’ll find us out paddling with customers-turned-friends whenever we get the chance.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

Our clientele was primarily from the Okanagan so the boards were primarily used on the lakes and rivers. We did a couple of River tours so we expect this to expand next year.

Where do you and your customers get out on the water?

We are footsteps from Kalamalka Beach and held a weekly race series so this spot was the most popular. Our pals from Kelowna and Penticton spent most of their time on Okanagan lake but I think most of us agree that Kalamalka Lake is the premier SUP spot in the region. It’s mostly calm but when the wind whips up, it makes for one amazing downwinder.

For Rivers, we spent the first part of the summer on the Shuswap near Mabel Lake but after hitting the Similkameen near Keremeos, we have much to explore.

Somewhere in the middle of it all, Transport Canada called our shop after responding to a call about ‘safety’ from a local business. They held a ‘town hall’ type of meeting with us and explained their interpretation of the laws and how they apply to SUP.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

Best condition depends on what you want to do. Early mornings for Kal Lake and Okanagan Lake are calm and glassy. Downwinders are best in the afternoon’s. Kal beach gets on-shore winds so it’s pretty safe out there most of the time.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

Its versitility will lend itself to a mainstream audience but it will also become more specialized as the sport evolves in the mind of the consumer and as the products continue to refine. Many of the boards offered today are not flat-water specific so I can see this side developing greatly. Once you get on a displacement style board, the speed might keep you from going back to the surfboard style of design….

What’s your favorite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

Freedom and folk. The people and the freedom to go anywhere with your board and go on an adventure on any body of water. More surf would be nice….

Any tips for the newcomers?

There is a lot of information out there about boards and paddles so try to find the stuff that pertains to your application. If you’re in the flatwater region, try to find info about boards that work best for lakes and rivers. Don’t get fooled by the cheaper brands who claim they are the same. We’ve seen it first hand that, like in other sports, you get what you pay for. We had many of our for-sale boards in the rental fleet so we have the luxury of seeing how they hold up under use and abuse.

And always buy the board that will suit 85% of where you will paddle. If you’ll be primarily on flatwater, try to pick a board that is suited for the lakes. If you end up going surfing, you can just rent a board for the weekend. Ask lots of questions like ‘how does it track’, ‘why does this board have thin rails but this one has thick rails?’, ‘what if I want to race it?’ and so on. In a new sport like SUP, no question is a dumb question. We’re all still learning and growing together.

And some closing thoughts?

It truly has been a thrilling ride so far. We jumped into the sport full-stop and have been able to share that stoke with so many good people this year already. The SUP community has come alive and we’ve become friends with many of our customers and that is what it’s all about for us. We support our local scene and also ship anywhere in BC and across the country. We were the first shop to stock race boards this season and always have something more than the ordinary in stock.

Kalavida also partnered with SPrKL (Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake) and made regular donations to the society from our race events.

Website: www.kalavidasurfshop.com

Dubbed the Summer SUP Series, the grassroots events have helped develop the sport and attendance has continued to grow with each race. With a growing number of enthusiasts taking to ‘SUP’, a strong local presence has helped make it the largest series of its kind on the Mainland of BC.  Vernon is blessed with having three local lakes and plenty of rivers to play on which makes it one of the top destinations for the sport in Canada.

The series will come to a thrilling conclusion on Tuesday, August 17^th when Kalavida hosts the Grandiso Finale’ SUP race.  The event is open to all paddlers, both new and experienced and for those who may not have a board, Kalavida is offering a special rate for board and entry fee to further encourage participation.  The Grand Prize is a C4 Waterman River SUP Package that includes a board, paddle, helmet and accessories.

The final race is a two-part effort that includes an iSUP sprint race and a short circuit course called ‘SUP Dock.  Immediately following the race, there will be an afterparty and awards ceremony to celebrate the first season of SUP racing in the area.

The race is organized by the crew at Kalavida Surf Shop so you can expect some fun and a few surprises during the event.  “The SUP community is made up of people from all types of sporting backgrounds so we like to mix it up to keep everyone on their feet…literally! said Kevin O’Brien of Kalavida. “It’s been amazing to meet so many great people and watch the sport grow so organically” he adds.  The event is supported by C4 Waterman and partial proceeds will be donated to SPrKL (Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake).

Get all of the details on the race through the Kalavida website at www.kalavidasurfshop.com or at www.oksup.com.

Series Standings:

Wahine’s (women)

1. Sheila Sovereign, Vernon 24
2. Regena Seminutin, Vernon 20
3. Megan Desimone, Vernon 12
4. Michele Tarr, Vernon 12
5. Lisette Smid, Coldstream 12

Kane (men)

1. Wade ‘Woody’ Anderson, Coldstream 20
2. Cory Ferguson, Vernon 20
3. Gary ‘Kuku Hoe’ Wessels Vernon 13
4. Shawn Sanders, Vernon 11
5. Bob Woodman, Vernon 8

And what about Kalavida Surf Shop

Kalavida – That little Surf/SUP shop across from Kalamalka Beach at the south end of Vernon, BC.  Fully stocked, and stoked, about the sport of Stand Up Paddle Surfing/Boarding.  Serving up sales, rentals, classes, surf wear, tiki-bits and more – 13908 Kalamalka Road, Coldstream (Vernon), BC. 778-475-5808 www.kalavidasurfshop.com

For more information, please contact

Kevin O’Brien

778-475-5808

There is even a dinner Saturday afternoon at the Gatzke’’s Farm Market and Bocce’, lounging, and music.

All Saturday race entries include Dinner at Gatzke’s so please let us know if you’re coming so we can make sure we get the right amount of foody goody. Email info@kalavidasurfshop.com

From the top of our paddle, here are 10 reasons to race the Kalamalka Classic:

1. The Oyama area, especially Kaloya Park, is an amazing green-water SUP experience.
2. Gatzke’s is hosting a dinner on Saturday night that have a stage, Bocce’ pits, hammocks and good food
3. The race is open to new and experienced paddlers.  Two races on Saturday (Rec and Open)
4. Sunday’s race is a 10-miler from Oyama to Kal Beach – King/Queen of Kalamalka Lake.  Do it to win or just to say you did.
5. Free board demos from Surftech on Saturday
6. Connect with SUP’sters from Washington, Vancouver, Alberta and around BC
7. It’s Summer Solstice weekend so there’s plenty of daylight
8. Gatzke’s is serving up a Father’s Day breakfast on Sunday
9. There are cool prizes from Surftech, Sitka, Kalavida, and Werner
10. The event is being covered by Stand Up Paddle Magazine, Paddlesurf.ca and OK SUP.

VIEW ENTRY FORM HERE

Kalavida Surf Shop, BC – May 17, 2010 – We are excited to announce that Surftech has signed on as Title sponsor of the 2010 Kalamalka Classic SUP Race, held June 19-20 on scenic Kalamalka Lake, BC. The two-day event includes a short course, long course, gear demos and a festival-like atmosphere that will appeal to new and competitive athletes, guests and spectators. Gatzke’s Farm Market will serve as race headquarters and the food and entertainment hub for the inaugural Stand Up Paddle Board race – the first of it’s kind in the province and the first major SUP Race in Canada.

The race is organized by the crew at Kalavida Surf Shop and you can expect some fun and a few surprises during the weekend. “My first SUP board was a Surftech Laird and it’s still my go-to ride so we’re excited to have them onboard (literally) to support the event. The Okanagan region is quickly gaining recognition as a premier destination for SUP and Surftech will be a big part of that growth – Paddle on!” said Kevin O’Brien, event race director.

Surftech will be showcasing their impressive line that goes deeper than just the popular Laird line and they hope to have a couple of race-specific boards on hand for demos. “I could not be more stoked to be a part of what will undoubtedly become the premiere SUP event in Canada! Kevin and Kalavida are the real deal, SUP Ohana!” added Bodie Shandro – Surftech Canadian Brand Manager.

Get all of the details on the race through the OK SUP website and watch for coverage on various websites including OK SUP, Stand Up Paddle Magazine, Paddlesurf.ca and more. The event is open to new and experienced SUP’ers and a great chance to try out new gear and stand up paddle board racing for the first time.