Cal Poly Stand Up Paddle Adventure

It was another beautiful day to stand up paddle board. California Kiteboarding, LLC applied Cal Poly's "Learn by Doing" philosophy on this adventure. But, the interesting part is the philosophy wasn't applied to Cal Poly students, instead on Cal Poly professors and Alumni. The professors were Carly Head, Carter Hammett, Amy Swanson, and Staley Avakian. They were all great sports, even when told they couldn't wear wetsuits. Hammett has paddled board a few times with California Kiteboarding and thoroughly enjoyed it. In fact, she loved it so much that she purchased a couple of boards from us (2012 Starboard Whopper, 2012 Starboard Drive) after the lesson. It was Swanson's and Head's first time on a stand up paddle board, but they did an outstanding job. Aquatics and Safety Coordinator at Cal Poly, Stayley Avakian, had some prior experience on an SUP.

 

Along with the Cal Poly crew, there were also Cal Poly Alumni paddlers. Biology major, Natalie Lee, and Business major, Victor Sellinger. Since, Sellinger is the owner of, The Pit Work Out, we couldn't just stand up paddle board, we had to do extra moves! He likes to incorporate Cross SUP (stand up paddle cross training) , which helps us cross train for other sports such as: kiteboarding, motocross, soccer, football, and swimming. When we finally landed at the secret beach Sellinger had almost everyone engaging in a Cross SUP workout. Cross SUP can help develop your cardiovascular fitness and strength. The only person who wasn't cross training was Lee because she was busy looking for Avila Bay sea life within the kelp beds.

 

There is a huge marine life in Avila Beach. Abalones are found in the kelp and provide a great meal when cooked. Kelp can also grow up to two feet per day and provide a shelter for many organisms. Barnacles are also found growing on rocks, boats, and other animals. Anchovies are also heavily populated within Avila Bay. But, Sea Otters have seem to become the most popular sea life in Avila. They are found around local venues like the Avila Bay Pier and Harford Beach. They also make their home on or near the beach and our not scared of strangers. It is also interesting to note, male seals have large trunk-like noses. So, if you happen to spot a seal on the beach pay close attention to their nose because you may be able to differentiate the male between the female. 

 

Please take a look at the pictures from this adventure on your right hand side.