“ Kudos to Suzie Cooney of Suzie Trains Maui and Tommy Callan of Beach Boy Events for putting on a wonderful, free stand-up paddling event for women Jan. 9.
They pulled together an amazing array of sponsors and helping hands to put women out on the water, some of us for the first time on a stand-up paddle board. As one of those beginners, I felt very well cared for, even though on the day of this event – with some 300 women and their boards showing up on the beach in front of the Four Seasons Resort – there was a serious shore break.
In addition to putting on a great fitness-oriented program with a slew of prizes for participants, Suzie and Tommy seemed to have pulled in a significant portion of the stand-up community on Maui to help. I especially appreciated the “board caddies,” a bunch of very fit and helpful gentlemen, who helped us with our boards and got us safely in and out of that hairy shore break.
Although I spent a lot more time in the water and climbing back onto my board than I did standing up, I had a great time, and I hope the event raised lots of funds for the American Breast Cancer Foundation.”
Thank you Jill for your kind words and comments about the board caddies and all the volunteers, and especially the Four Seasons Resort Maui who contributed hugely to the day’s success and fun. We’re all so glad you attended and particiated in all the fun!
STAND UP For Women’s Health & Fitness at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, January 9, 2010 was
photo by Simone Reddingius
definitely the place to be! Although the pounding West swell did keep some on the beach, for those who braved the over head-high beach break, everyone went in smiling and came out smiling! No injuries to report, only two broken boards.
Congratulations to all the women who so bravely participated. These women water warriors earned their stripes today for sure!
photo by Nicole Sanchez
It was quite a site! The beach covered with boards, groovy music; the buzz and adrenaline was everywhere. Besides the beautiful back drop of the waters of Maui with whale spouts appearing now and then, women of all ages from all over the globe were about to partake in a worthy cause to support women’s health and STAND UP to breast cancer. Since this was a FREE event, donations were and are encouraged through our website to support the American Breast Cancer Foundation.
Early before dawn, the army of volunteers, retail shops and sponsors appeared. Flags in the sand, tables up, tents up, and then the stage! Soon a sea of eager smiles with boards and paddles in hand began to appear, ready for a day of adventure and fun. The thought on everyone’s mind with the over head-high beach break was..” hmm this should be interesting!”
Photo by Nicole Sanchez
The day began with a beautiful blessing, delivered by Maui’s own Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaialii Jr. His words and heartfelt grace touched everyone and assured our day to be peaceful and safe.
photo by Nicole Sanchez
photo Nicole Sanchez
photo by Simone Reddingius
Groovy tunes by DJ DEL SOL and DJ CIA brought the women to a state of bliss as I prepared them for some dynamic stretching, light core work and modiefied strength training.
We were really fortunate to have Tiare Lawrence, C4’s pro rider who happens to be due any day with a
photo by nicole sanchez
new baby girl, come up on stage and do her paddle instruction and tell us why the ocean and stand up paddling is so important to her. She didn’t answer her cell phone today, so maybe her daughter has come!
With such a strong West swell, the beach was peeling fast with a huge over head-high beach break all the way across, and rolling swells behind it! At least 7-8 waves per set coming through with only small lulls in between and forget a safety channel. Nail biting, knee knocking for some and rightly so. Just in case we were fortunate to have on the waters as our safety patrol, North Shore Explorers that had a team of Clay Everline,MD. Mike Adrian to shoot the day and Chris and Todd as the captains.
Harry Donenfeld News correspondent of Harry Thankyou TV, geared up to get some fun water shots see below!
photo by Nicole Sanchez
photo by Simone Reddingius
Loch Eggers, big wave surfer and water safety specialist, made sure that safety was in the forefront of everyone’s mind. His team of board caddies, which included Milton, who tows from a helicopter; Robby Funk, Carlos M, Chris W, Bruce and Larry from Paia, Ian H, John and Michael Leake, Gary Tuttle, Ironman Phil McGain, Joel Edwards,Mark H, Jon Graham,
photo by Simone Reddingius
Dennis O, Lenny Cappe,
Phik McGain photo by Simone Reddingius
hero caddie by Simone Reddingius
Kevin Hager from Hawaiian Island Surf, Jeff from Big Kahuna, Ralf Sifford’s team from Second Wind, Nitzan and Dave from Naish and so many more heros made the day safe. Common sense, fast thinking and timing was critical. On the beach was Dr. Rick Sands and on the boat, Clay Everline, MD.
Teri, who held the front line in the registration tent writes, “It was truly an inspiring event and I am honored to have played even just a small part in this and would gladly volunteer again! The conditions were scary for beginners however the CADDIES rock as they made it all so much easier by being so on it. I sincerely congratulate the team for no injuries and for making it so safe! The DJs kept the party going and kept it happening!”
photo by Mike Adrian
Three paddle groups went out in stages. First group was the advanced group led by Starboard team rider, Anne-Marie Reichman. Down the south coast they went towards Makena and the small island of Molokini. I’m told that whales were spotted on their tour. Second group out, was mine. Beginner and intermediate as we went up towards Kihei. The water was pretty calm for the most part, with light variable winds.
The women had nice easy paddling styles.
photo by Mike Adrian
It was the time to push yourself a little and test your endurance. Last group out was our first timers. Wow, something they will never forget I’m sure. The pictures tell all.
The bay sweepers, which included the strong pro team rider for Starboard, Tiffany Ward
photo by Nicole
managed to calm the nerves of many and get them to their feet smiling. A big thank you to personal trainer, Anne Barnett of Haiku, water athlete Corrine, and another great instructor Jenny visiting from Big Island who works for Naish. Also on board to help, was Maui’s own Kalia Kelmenson, experienced water girl and personal trainer wrote, “My favorite moment of the day was paddling along next to a woman who was struggling a bit with her balance- I traded boards with her- she was so happy for that- come to find out she was from Rapanui, now living in Bora Bora- and I had such a great time chatting with her about one of my favorite places on the planet- French Polynesia- I got a terrific reminder about how small this world is, and the things that inspire us are consistent across cultures.”
photo by Simone Reddingius
After about an hour and a half or more of water time, refreshments provided by Recharge, Vita Coco, Sambazon, Guayaki and Luna Bar, along with fresh Maui grown fruit from Kula Fields were provided to help refuel. A big thank you to Snorkels for serving up some great turkey wraps and sandwhiches.
On stage next were three lovely inspirational guest speakers. Suki Halevi, a new resident to Maui who battles unseen neurologicial challenges, and who has conquered many physical obstacles through the sport of stand up paddling. Raw food specialist, Chef Susan Teton Campbell shared all her jewels about health and nutrition, and finally Rita Whitford not only a survivor to breast cancer, but has also survived colon and skin cancer. A delightful trio of women who opened their hearts and inspired many to stay healthy and be aware of their bodies.
By now everyone was ready to learn to hula. Wilmont brought along two lovely and beautiful Maui professional hula dancers to wow the crowd. Even the men on the beach joined in. Who said men can’t hula? Wilmont played his 12 string guiatar has he led the beach into histarics and giggles while we were moving to the tropical rythm. You should have seen Chris Wurtele from Haiku swaying his hips back and forth! Fun had by all.
Finally, to wind down the day the moment everyone had been waiting for, the amazing prize raffle.
photo by Simone Reddingius
Tommy worked very hard for many months to gather a huge amount of prizes to please everyone. After tossing a tub of Maui Jim t-shirts, towels and Recharge frisbees into the crowd,
photo Simone Reddingius
the big prizes were now up for many lucky winners. From a cool IndoBoard training board, to Kaenon sunglasses, a new 2010 “Pipes” Kialoa carbon fiber paddle, gift certificates from Athleta, a killer basket of Love Inside Out beauty products, to a dinner for two at The Four Seasons Resort restaurant, Ferraro’s Bar E Ristorante.
photo by Simone Reddingius
The grand prize, a spicy 9′8″ Starboard stand up paddle board was won by Elle who came to the event from Los Angeles. She wrote to the president of Starboard, “I cannot thank you enough for donating an SUP board to the STAND UP FOR WOMEN’S FITNESS event this past Saturday in Maui that Suzie Cooney and Tom Callan organized. I was jumping for joy when I won the grand prize…I couldn’t believe it! The event was amazing and inspiring to all – Wailea beach was packed with women of all ages and SUP levels…every participant I spoke with had a wonderful time. I flew out from Los Angeles for the event with a friend of mine and we loved it.
Suzie and Tom ran the event seamlessly – it appeared as though the event was in it’s 10th year with how organized and smoothly everything flowed. I was extremely impressed at their professionalism and I imagine that this event will become an annual tradition on Maui and hopefully elsewhere. Suzie and Tom were so gracious and patient with all of the volunteers and participants. I believe I can speak for everyone at the event when I say that Suzie is extremely inspiring to women. Everyone left Wailea beach with a smile, a new or re-ignited love for SUP, a greater passion for fitness and health, and an awareness for breast cancer.” Thanks Elle!
Well, as the emails and photos pour in, there is much to share and do. Tommy and I would like to thank the community of Maui, the amazing team at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, our dear friends and volunteers, sponsors and those who traveled from far away places to contribute to such an inspiring, contagious day of joy and health. New friends were made, water fears conquered and we all discovered just how powerful one sport, that anyone can enjoy almost anywhere in the world; can bring such a dynamic group together for a good cause.
Keep the donations coming in! Stay tuned to this site for hundreds of more photos.
STAND UP for your health each and everyday. The ocean, our health and friendships are always free.
Aloha Everyone! I’d like to introduce Tiffany Ward, Pro Team Rider for Starboard will be attending and assisting for STAND UP For Women’s Healthy & Fitness January 9th, 2010 at the Four Seasons Resort. This girl and rip and did you know she is also a famous culinary artist and gourmet chef?
TIffany has kindly offered to volunteer her water woman skills to coach our gals in the water and offer a friendly tip or two. She is a great instructor and is always smiling with great enthusiasm. She is an inspiration to us all and we are stoked for her to join us.
Here’s a little more information about Tiffany:
Tiffany started windsurfing at a young age(5hrs.) in Utah and Oregon. Thanks to her parents, who are both avid windsurfers themselves, she became quiet the sailing enthusiast. Her passion and drive for windsurfing launched her into a professional windsurfing career. After graduating from Culinary school, she moved to Maui and begin touring on the PWA World tour. Competing on the World tour for a couple years, she found Maui to offer the best conditions and arena to excel in.
Being a part of the Pro Star-board team, Tiffany has access to many of the new SUP boards and prototype’s. A new comer to the sport of SUP, she quickly embraced the up and coming sport with open arms.
”SUP is a good intro to the ocean for new comers and provide an excellent workout/training for all water-enthusiast”.
Not only is Tiffany a professional Windsurfer and water women, she is a Gourmet Chef as well. Tiffany has a degree in culinary arts from the CCA in San Francisco, CA and is the owner of Maui Catering Services. (www.mauicateringservices.com) Providing excellent food and service for weddings, retreats, and private clientele…
Tiffany writes, “Living and Playing in Maui has been a dream come true. Maui’s
lifestyle has turned me into a true Water-Women and I love it… ”
Tiffany is a beauty! She inspires many and I’m sure she’ll inspire you too!
She is sponsored by:
Starboard
Severne sail
Dakine
Chinook
Pakaloha suits
MCS
A big mahalo Tiff for making our day extra special!
A big Mahalo to DJs Charles Oreve and Del Sol for generously volunteering their time, talent and groovy tunes to keep us mov’n and groov’n. If you don’t come for the paddle, come check these guys out!
DJ CIA (Charles Oreve) grew up in Paris, France. Starting in 1995, he was playing in several of the French capital’s prestigious establishments as well as in the French Riviera, hosting high profile guests such as international models and celebrities. Currently he resides on Maui, where he broadens peoples’ musical palettes with his European influence. He is involved with the highly popular House of S.I.N. at Ambrosia Ultra Lounge on Thursday nights and has played at all the major venues on the island.
Charles and Dell
Dj Del Sol (Felipe Delgado Jr.) grew up in Los Angeles, California where he started his DJ career in 1991. Although too young to get into the major club scene, he made his mark on the underground house scene with his natural talent and ability to move a crowd. From 1995-2005 Del Sol lived in Honolulu, Hawaii where he continued to mesmerize crowds and played along side some of the worlds most talented dj’s. His residencies included the WonderLounge at The W Hotel, The Blue Room at Indigo, and Pussy Cat Lounge at the now defunct Wave Waikiki.
Since moving to Maui in 2005, Del Sol has teamed up with Dj CIA to create a unique following consisting of the islands’ sophisticated party people. They are proud to provide their guests a safe and fun- filled atmosphere where they can listen to the most progressive music that is making people move around the world.
STAND UP For Women’s Health & Fitness at Four Seasons Resort Maui, Wailea Beach Hawaii
January 9, 2010
Outline of the Day’s Events:
7:00 - 8:00am Registration / Check- in to receive wrist band Protect your skin with
Waterman’s Applied Science. See the big Pump at the registration desk!
8:30am Welcome & Hawaiian Blessing
Followed by dynamic stretching, core exercises, strength exercises led
by Suzie Cooney, CPT of Suzie Trains Maui
9:00am Maui Resident Tiare ”T” Lawrence C4’s Pro Team Rider
Land demo/instruction/ water safety of Stand Up Paddling
9:30am Three different Stand Up Paddling Choices:
1. Bay Paddle for First Timers or Beginners / Board Caddies on beach and on water to assist beginners/first timers
2. Short Distance Paddle led by Suzie Cooney 20 min + each way fast paced Beginner/Intermediate
3.Long Distance Paddling group led by Starboard’s Pro Team Rider, Anne-Marie Reichman 30 min each way Intermediate/Advanced
There will be a safety boat and patrol paddlers to ensure the safety of our participants.
11:30am Snacks refreshments provided to participants / lunches for purchase at
Snorkels if people choose
Snacks provided by Luna Bar, Kula Fields. Drinks: Recharge, VitaCoco,
Sambazon, Gauyaki and Menehune Water Company
12:00pm Inspirational Guest Speakers
12:30pm Hula Performance / Lessons
1:00 – 2:00 Amazing Prize Raffle (must be pre registered and present to win)
Our decision to make this a FREE event was a choice based on the hope that you will make a donation to the American Breast Cancer Foundation … You can access their site through ours! In lieu of a registration fee, we hope you will generously donate what you can. We are all very lucky to be healthy enough to enjoy this day, but know there are many others that are not. Your donations do so much and are very appreciated!
The Four Seasons is offering a special “SUP” rate to registered participants only at $325 per night. You will have to contact the resort directly. Click here for more details:
Starboard donates a new Stand Up Paddle board to the “STAND UP For Women’s Health & Fitness” event to be held at the Four Seasons Resort, Maui this January 9, 2010!
Starboard, an SUP industry pioneer and market leader, has stepped up to the “STAND UP For Women’s Health & Fitness” call for a remarkable prize and will be providing a new SUP board in the highly anticipated RAFFLE event.
“Our event sponsors have shown an incredible willingness to be involved and their generosity has been truly amazing. Raffles are always a fun part to any event and I’m blown away with the sponsor’s gifts. Participants will not only have the opportunity to learn SUP at the Four Seasons Resort, but may also win prizes from the industry’s biggest names. Sponsors include C4, Naish, Focus, Indo Board, Clif Bar, Maui Jim, Vita Coco, Dry Freak, Oxbow, Sambazon, Recharge, Kaenon, Posh Pua, Love Inside Out, Watermans Applied Science and more are signing on daily!” says co-host Tommy Callan of Beach Boy Events.
So come join the Aloha and learn how to do the fastest growing water sport in the world on the beautiful island of Maui at the Four Seasons Resort. Stand Up Paddle Surfing (SUP) is making surfers out of everyone. You’ve seen the “Stars” do it … now it’s YOUR turn! SUP will improve your balance, endurance, strength and mindset. Receive patient, guided instruction from professional instructors and experience the feeling of the “surfer’s glide”.
”STAND UP for Women’s Health & Fitness” is a FREE, non-competitive event to promote healthy lifestyle choices, self-confidence and breast cancer education for women through sport, nutrition and self awareness. You’ll not only enjoy learning to SUP, but also to Hula! Enjoy inspirational guest speakers, plenty of healthy treats and amazing prizes. Maybe you’ll even win your own Stand Up Paddle Board!
Well, as the emails and photos pour in, there is much to share and do. Tommy and I would like to thank the community of Maui, the amazing team at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, our dear friends and volunteers, sponsors and those who traveled from far away places to contribute to such an inspiring, contagious day of joy and health. New friends were made, water fears conquered and we all discovered just how powerful one sport, that anyone can enjoy almost anywhere in the world; can bring such a dynamic group together for a good cause.
Aloha Everyone! I’d like to introduce Tiffany Ward, Pro Team Rider for Starboard will be attending and assisting for STAND UP For Women’s Healthy & Fitness January 9th, 2010 at the Four Seasons Resort. This girl and rip and did you know she is also a famous culinary artist and gourmet chef?
Starboard
