Kristi has been looking for a second board to take to competitions in case her existing board ever got snapped or damaged. We have looked at and demoed a lot of boards both production and customs but with Kristi's weight and build it was always going to be a challenge. With the Aussies looming it was time to make a decision.
I dont know about other people but the first time you order a board with a new shaper its a bit of a concern and if your talking interstate even more so, do they really understand what your asking for, do they know how you like to surf etc.
I have spoken to Tully at different events and we have discussed him making a custom on several occassions, Kristi was always impressed by the Keahi videos so we decided to go with a Laguna Bay custom.
I have to say the communication back and forward was fantastic, Tully really listened to what we wanted and then added his wealth of experience to get to the end result which to say the least is very impressive!
The final result is a 7'10 x 26 1/4 mid nose, rounded pin, recessed deck, custom SUP with a smokin pink, magenta and blue tiger stripe resin bleed.
When I asked about transition from one board to the next Tully said "Mate she might be able to step straight on to this one" and he was right on the money.
Ok so whats so special you might ask:
The mid nose provides stability to get up and over white water and also when the conditions are rough.
The recessed deck lowers the center of gravity again providing more stability.
The rounded pin tail, bottom shape and rails allow this board to really rip tight arcs with ease.
The quality of the resin bleed has the old school long board crew drewling, put it on the beach while you get changed and it draws a crowd. The images just dont do it justice.
The swing weight is rediculously light and adds to is ripability for small light weight riders.
The weather here has been bad so Kristi has only ridden the board a few times but here are a few images from her 2nd 25 mins on the board.
I guess the smile at the end says it all.
Points to consider:
This Laguna bay custom is designed for comp conditions for a fly weight rider and is super light for ultimate performance, but just remember Tully also does the Surftech range that have the same high performance pedigree but are designed to take the day to day rough stuff that a newbie or a more advanced rider pushing the limits are likely to dish out.
If your looking around for a new board give Tully a call and have a chat about what you want, I think you will be surprised just like we were.
Phill
