Yeah, Sopa, the NSSA College Team season, and I think I judged you in the only contest I tried to judge: '93 Swami's Club event. Maybe... maybe not. It's fuzzy now. That judging gig takes patience and focus... kudos to those that do it well!I've done plenty, won some money.
Even after things like massive hangovers from UCSB festivities competing in 1' backside Rincon, it made for great memories and friendships. Oh, and having car plates on the Black's list with bandit keys was a cherished perk.
From there, I took a break to focus on surf travel at least 1x/year. As the internets started evolving, the kneelo community began to connect globally. Some of those comp-focused surfers were already connected. For me, surf travel turned into travel to surf '99 World Titles in Opunake New Zealand. Then, US Titles started in '03. Like Leaverite, surfed the '04 event to a 4th, behind said Barry, Jack (and Tom Linn.) The annual events continued, including World Titles at Steamer Lane. They still continue... but...
Why do it? It was a whole lot of fun in college, at least for me until the horn sounded. It was a great way to meet folks, learn and improve... but also kind of constrictive. It was only 'a corner in the room.' With enough time and energy, no worries.
As time demands grew with family, events were a great escape, but harder and harder to justify. With every free surf a blessing now, it's hard to say 'let's drive to Huntington where 2-3' surf is forecasted.' Comradery, yes. Surf, nope. I'm back to surf travel as I can...
B.R.: Classic! Alan and Doughboy were UCSD NSSA, and great company!
Solid advice so far. Only 'add' is to be sure to watch set patterns, and then figure out who's committing to which wave in the set. If someone has the first one dialed, speed-paddle for the 2nd or 3rd decisively. Get out of that first heat! If I followed the heat schedule correctly, 1st round is elimination, and 2nd round bottom-three go to repercharge. Make the first heat, and you're guaranteed two more...