Baler, as they said, is the birth place of surfing in the Philippines. Since I've never been to La Union beaches or Siargao Island, I couldn't claimed if Baler is the best surfing destination in the country for advanced surfers . But Baler, however, is a haven for beginners like me. Sabang beach in Baler provides medium size waves that is best for beginners. Well, I am not a surfing enthusiast but my Baler experience wouldn't be completed without trying this kind of sport.
Clad in our spandex surf suits, me and three of my travel buddies headed off to Sabang beach at 7 am together with our respective instructors. We couldn't hide our excitement - and anxiety!
Being beginners, none of us have any idea what will awaits us.
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| Now this is Surfing Lesson 101. Surfing tutorial fee costs Php 350/pax per hour. |
Our kuya instructors taught us first the basic surfing tips for beginners. To ease my fear, my instructor told me that surf boards are made to float with water so I must not worry. This made me calm for a while. Then they taught us the proper way on how to lie, sit and stand-up on board. Our instructors were all very hands-on that when were already clashing with the waves, they assisted us to make sure that we're not wobbling on our board. Another tips that I've learn from my instructor is when a large wave is coming, you must duck or lower your head to avoid waves whipping your eyes.
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| Be gentle to us, dear Poseidon. We're just beginners. Lol (*nervous laugh*) |
My first attempt standing up on my surfboard is a failed one. Well, my board became wobbly as my standing position was uncertain - and I'm a bit nervous, too. According to my instructor, the technique is to remain calm while pushing my upper body until I gain my balance. And while in a standing position, I should bend my knees (avoid standing erect for I will surely fall), always look up and lessen my movements.
Then, I made it on my second attempt! Woo-hoo!
The next attempts were a mixture of failed ones, the "pwede na" and the successful ones! The entire experience is superb. I will definitely do this again if I would have a chance to get back to Baler.
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| Well, that's me again! Cowabunga, dude! |
~ GDA
