While most people typically surf channels or the Internet within the controlled environment of their own homes, there is ever increasing number of adventure-seeking, water-loving people who are Hanging Ten (lingo translation: riding a surfboard with the toes of both feet hooked over the front) right here in Maine.
A little Internet surfing revealed that real surfing is the fastest growing water sport in the world. Recently two such themed Sea Bags showed up in our Freeport store it was clear that surfing is also one of the few sports or arts that creates its own culture. Totally cool. Radical.
As a non-surfer, I wonder about surfing’s origins in two parts: “When were the first surfboards ridden?” and “Who were the first surfers?” However, I am told that a seasoned surfer thinks more in terms of: “When was the first stoke?” Yes, there is definitely a separate language and mindset around surfing. In Hawaiian, the term hopupu means to be high on life, especially riding waves.
No need to go to Hawaii for “wave sliding” known as he`e nalu in old Hawaiian. When the tides are high and the winds are gusting, we have a strong surfing community along the coast of Maine. Granted wetsuits may be needed longer here than in the Aloha state, but this sporting trend is growing in popularity in southern region of our state. For example, Friday June 17th, Grain Surfboards shop in York will host the New England Premiere of Mikey DeTemple’s new surfing film Sight|Sound. The film captures beautiful footage from some pretty exotic locations including some fun scenes from right here.
Did you know that there are surf camps in Maine? Actually there are several of them being offered starting at age 5 with the basics and water safety. Teenagers and adults can learn surfing, boogie boarding, skimboarding, stand up paddling, and body surfing. It promises a great work out as it’s like doing Yoga on water and really works the core.
Not soon to sign up for surfing camp, I do appreciate the Surf and the Surfboard Sea Bags even more after a brief glimpse into the surfing scene in our Pine Tree State. I remain among the many people who view storm waves as too choppy, difficult and as an adversary of nature. Whereas, our surfer friends see the potential for fun to figuratively go full-tilt on a risky course. Hang Ten. Do you know anyone who surfs Maine?
