As Pacifica prays for a better city economy, surfers pray for bigger waves

The Daily Journal (San Mateo), Samantha Weigel, 11/10/12. "Mavericks officially kicks off."  Note: article and photograph are by Samantha Weigel.
 

Pray for waves, but staying alive would be good

"As Friday’s midday sun began to set off the coast of Half Moon Bay, this year’s Mavericks Invitational surfers, family, supporters and locals gathered for the opening ceremony marking the start of the waiting period for this year’s competition. The contest relies on big and consistent 30- to 50-foot waves that must occur between now and March 31. As the crowd grew along the beach and on the cliffs, several of this year’s competitors arrived and began to line up their surfboards.

....  “This is a place that is very challenging; the best in the world can sometimes fall to it. So we all know that; and guys are not silly and crazy daredevils, but very calculated. It’s easy to get excited, cause you’re having fun out there, and let your guard down. But we have to always keep in mind that even on a small day, this place could kill you,” Washburn said.

...  The men gave thanks and commemorated their fellow surfers who have passed at the hands of the daunting waves. But they also prayed for the elements to align and provide a competition. They prayed to Mavericks, Clark said. ....  The ceremony progressed as they burst into the 53 degree water and paddled out a few hundred yards from shore. A few dozen competitors and locals sat atop their boards and gathered to hold hands.

....  “We make a circle out there and pray for waves,” Washburn said.  At the ceremony’s closing, the competitors retreated to land, meeting at the Yacht Club where names were drawn to determine heats and competition order; assuming there is a competition. So for now, all they can do is pray for waves."   Read article.

Related - Sacramento Bee/Associated Press, 11/9/12, "Mavericks surfing contest window opens."

Posted by Kathy Meeh