sama: September 2011

People always ask what SAMA means. It started as kind of a joke. It was a sleeting, snowy day in early December. My friend and I were surfing a swell in Grand Haven. I looked over at him knowing we were supposed to both be at pre-Christmas family functions soon, and said "We are like Self Absorbed Michigan Adventurers." That kind of stuck, and like many of our friends we have a common passion for outdoor sports in Michigan, and we go out in any weather to get our sessions. He replied "Ya, SAMA!"

So it was born, the SAMA logo was fashioned by another like minded surfer friend from Grand Haven. SAMA is for all of you year round Michiganders and vacationers who know, love, and respect all the outdoor activities there are to do in Michigan. No matter the weather you will find us us out enjoying all the benefits of our unique freshwater paradise.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

The Wizards

SURFING WITH STRANGERS from TDZ on Vimeo.

I have been kitesurfing strapless for most of the season, and tonight was another amazing session in the waves. After work I headed down to the Grand Haven pier to find some decent waves rolling in with very little wind. I paddled out and caught a few nice ones before the wind started pick up again. I met up with Bucky on the beach and we contemplated the situation. With the wind picking up I sprinted to my Jeep and grabbed my kite. Ten minutes later I was charging out through the shore break. What followed was an amazing kitesurfing session with the waves all by myself. As I got closer to the pier the swell was building and dropping down the face of a few of those sets will be in my mind for a long time to come. I titled this post "The Wizards" because these guys are inspiration and motivation for me to pump and head out no matter the conditions. They are my virtual mentors!