Adrian Tregoning

Earlier this season, before the rain started, there was a lovely day with zero wind and some swell. I’d been wondering how my large Fluid Detox would surf in the ocean and decided I’d take it out for a test.

Upon arrival at the beach the swell was rather disappointing. I can’t remember the details but I think the swell direction had a southerly component in it that was too great and wasn’t quite reaching the beach as I had hoped. Nevertheless I got into the water and buzzed around in the mediocre waves. The water was super clear that day and probably not a puff of wind. I had recruited my trusty mother to take photos on the beach… :-)

Surfing Fluid Detox.

Wave wheel :) Coming in to change to the composite Fluid Element.

Another metre or so of swell would have been good. Above was about the best wave with the Element before the swell really dropped. Composite Element fun.

Pulling out of a small close out.

Small loop.

Ah, this could have been fun on my bodyboard.

The Detox can actually surf, and it was quite fun. Getting out was easy, the length obviously giving it good speed. Sure, it’s not a play boat, but for some straight lining it can be done. Even a spin or two is possible, but definitely on a bigger wave as I felt too sluggish in these ones. Eventually I grabbed my Element and unfortunately the waves had dropped down within that first 45 to 60 minute session. I got one ok wave and then the rest were quite rubbish. But at least that one wave put a big smile on my face, and made me realise just how awesome the composite Fluid Element is – I had missed it, not having paddled mine for a while!

The river season has been great so far, with June having seen many trips. There will be some cool photos coming up soon.

Photography by: Anni Tregoning.
Words by: Adrian Tregoning.