What a bunch of fine specimens, NZ's best surfers assembled for the Integrated Training workshop, spearheaded by Surfing New Zealand with funding from the Olympic Committee
This shouldn't be a tough post to write, there's so many positive angles to take: SNZ's championing and execution of elite athlete development. The fact that the Olympic Committee funded the workshop. That the workshop was conducted by one of my close mates Woody [and Emma of course] - That their business and their vision is thriving. Oh, that another close mate Jemarl Paerata's business, Te Kaiarahi was also involved and clearly delivering and nailing his objectives. That I got to witness, document, and somehow be amalgamated into such an amazing two days with all these top notch humans, yes even the surfers were OK. That's a joke, they all were fucking awesome. Frothed to learn, eager to embrace new skills, good, keen people.
Dave Wood holding court, explaining the fundamentals of calm under pressure before putting the theory into practice
So many threads of goodness. Because this isn't the platform to go too deep, that is all going to get glossed over- sorry. In part, I even question if it's my place to comment. Cleary from the tone, you'll be picking up the workshop was a runaway success from all accounts. Here's some of my favourite images from a hectic and hugely satisfying 48 hours.
David
Dan Farr, focussed
surfers, finding a way to surf
Dan the crumbled schnitzel
Taylor Hutchison pool work
Woody keeping an eye on Billy Stairmand
Paige Hareb leading
Paige, clearly far too calm under pressure
Elliott Paerata-Reid spotting Dune Kennings
Jemarl starting the workshop with karakia
No surfie bums here, a group of surfers that have competitive surfing as a small part of their surfing lifestyle and journey
bonds strengthened, challenges met, teachings learnt
Bunch of the best buggers you could hope to hang with
FROM THE BOOK SHOP
These are becoming very popular! Stoked. The new print set of 10 NZ line ups and waves is a great wee stocking filler at $35.00 ... and free postage nationwide. Start sowing the seeds fellas! You need this for Christmas. Check them out in more detail HERE