| Basic Rules
Waveski surfers are just another group of surfers sharing the waves and there are some basic rules mostly based on safety and common sense that apply to EVERYONE.The major annoyances when it comes to surfing are other people. Now that surfing is so popular (it has its down sides), everyone is in the water. This of course leads to many people being in each other's way. Please respect other people and their right of way or you can, and sometimes will, get hurt.
These rules help regulate who has right of way when surfing and like the rules of the road create a safer more enjoyable environment. These rules bring order to what would otherwise be a nightmarish and chaotic sport, with everyone running over each other and lots of waves going un ridden due to confusion.
Waveski surfers have an advantage of being able to catch waves easily which can create frustration with other surfers particularly when the surf is small. Knowing and surfing within the rules is vital. These rules are well established throughout the world and are also applicable in competitions and following them avoids incurring penalties from the judges.
DON'T DROP IN
The surfer closest to the breaking part of the wave (the inside or the peak) has right of way/priority.
If someone is up and riding, paddling into the wave behind them does not give you the wave. Before taking off on a wave make sure no one is on your inside, always check behind you before taking off.
DON'T SNAKE
Don't paddle up inside someone as they are trying to catch the wave. This is known as "snaking" when a surfer who is nowhere near the point of takeoff where the other surfer is taking off, paddles over and tries to steal the wave from the surfer at the peak. "Snaking is a no, no and one that will get you little respect in the lineup. The surfer who has been sitting out the back waiting ages for that boomer while everyone else is on the inside always has the right of way. It's just common sense and courtesy.
GIVE A YELL!
If it looks like someone is going to drop in on you, let them know you are on the inside or have right of way by calling out and letting them know you are taking off or already on the wave. Sometimes crew drop in because they think you haven't made the takeoff. A friendly reminder of a shout like "Mine" or "Going right" or "Going left" helps clarify the situation.
DON'T HOG WAVES!
Don't try to catch every single wave that comes through. You will only create animosity amongst the other surfers in the line up and will be seen as a wave pig or hog. If you have the paddling power or a board that allows you to get into the waves a lot earlier remember this, learn to give and you will receive. Share the waves around and learn to give a few to the other crew. Respect gets respect.
DON'T ENDANGER OTHERS!
Uncontrolled and unnecessary manoeuvres are dangerous. Don't attempt a move, manoeuvre ,turn or aerial that will cause you to land or smash into some one else and always keep an eye on crew paddling out. Usually when you are about to take off on a wave someone might be paddling out right in front of you. Avoid the hassle or possible injury to you or the other surfer and just wait for another one.
DON'T PADDLE OUT THE THROUGH THE BREAK
Don't paddle out through the lineup or the breaking area/impact zone of the waves. By paddling around the breaking or surfable part of the wave you won't interfere with other surfers and reduce the risk of getting hit by the surfer on the wave. No one likes having their wave spoilt. If you must get over a wave that someone is riding, paddle behind them (on the white water side) and paddle around the break or go in and paddle out again.
BE POLITE!
Being rude creates tension in a crowded break. If you are having a bad day then take your 'bad attitude' somewhere else. No one wins an argument, especially in the surf. Your and their day's surfing will be ruined. Always apologise if you make a mistake. If you are involved in or near a collision then stop what you're doing and make sure that everyone is okay. Above all, keep a good attitude. Surfing is supposed to be FUN and exhilarating not an unpleasant experience. You are entitled to make your point and voice your opinion. The hard thing to do is to leave it at that. Keep in mind that fellow surfers will respect you more if you do.
DON'T SURF BEYOND YOUR ABILITY!
Don't venture out the back to where the take off zone is unless you are capable of controlled take offs on a main peak situation. Its not only dangerous to yourself, but also to the more experienced surfer especially if you are unable to control your board or manoeuvres. Utilise the white wash when learning to surf.
THINK ABOUT SAFETY!
Use leashes or seatbelts and fins for control.
SHARE THE OCEAN!
All surf-sports have a right to waves! Don't practise your competition tactics (if you are a contest surfer) on those who enjoy the surfing for the life style and fun it offers. Leave that form of hassling for contests not free surfing. The sea is there for everyone to use and share.
DON'T IGNORE THE LOCAL RULES!
Rules are usually there for a reason and make sure you are surfing in the right area (not in the flags).
DON'T SURF ON YOUR OWN
Surf with a buddy. Not only will you have more fun if you are sharing your waves but you will always have someone to help you out if you need it.
Keep this list in mind when you are surfing and you are sure to stay out of trouble and enjoy yourself and not end up fighting with the locals. Get out there and rip it up.
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(450 kb) and is available to assist Nations, Clubs and individual competitors at competitive waveski events.
