The press release issued by Mavericks Surf Ventures this week stating that I ‘stepped down’ and I am ‘passing the torch to the next generation’ is wrong. The reality is that I was ousted as Contest Director by the current CEO.

I must also note that, while the company’s news release states that this year’s contest will be held to celebrate ‘the 35th anniversary of Jeff Clark’s first session at the now world-famous break,’ the 35th anniversary is actually next season, in 2010-11. I will not allow the company to use my accomplishment as a marketing tactic.

Effective today, I have resigned from the Board of Directors of Mavericks Surf Ventures.

My vision for the Mavericks Surf Contest has been unwavering: it is about the family of big wave surfers, the spirit of the ocean, and this amazing wave. I never wanted that to be compromised for the sake of money or marketing opportunities. I think that focus is obvious to anyone who knows me or who has seen my priorities over the years.

read the full statement at jeff clarks blog

Beachgoers might not be surprised to see a shark in the surf, but a different pair of predators has appeared on the Brevard County coast.

A rare American crocodile was captured at the Cocoa Beach Pier last Friday and there have been at least two separate alligator sightings in the ocean this week. One of the reptiles left its tracks in the sands of Satellite Beach.

Steven Harp, a professional photographer, followed the Satellite Beach gator, as it swam in the surf. It was the first time he ever saw one in salt water.

“You could tell the salt water was bothering his eyes. He was holding his head pretty high out of the water, not swimming like they normally do,” Harp said.

read the full story at orlandosentinel.com

Waiting Game: Conditions degrade at the 2009 NSSA Nationals as things start to get serious

Conner Coffin didn’t surf before his heat. Didn’t engage in a superstitious pre-heat ritual. Didn’t even employ an elaborate competitive strategy. He just figured, “I’ll try to catch a set wave.” But why bother with that if you surf as good as he does? In his last Open Men’s Round 1 heat of the day, he simply paddled out and reengaged the crowd’s waning attention. A gargantuan snap and a water displacing tail-slide got the blood flowing again. But his dominance shown through more than anything. And some strategy. A set came in, after all, and he caught it. He bruised the wave with every inch of his rail, and was awarded a nine. Clearly, if he maintains such form, expect him to be clawing at the 2009 Open Men’s crown.

This wasn’t ideal Lowers. It wasn’t the Lowers people mind-surf in traffic jams or ditch work to paddle out in. It was onshore, small and plagued by numbing lulls. But it was Lowers with four guys out and these young surfers took full advantage. Before the wind got too bad earlier in the morning, San Clemente local Ian Crane set the day’s pace in his Open Juniors Round 2 heat. Tail blows. Off-the-lips. Critical reverses on end sections. He blazed on with two sevens.

read more at surfing mag