Outer Banks Gaining Notoriety for Stand Up Paddle Boarding
The Outer Banks was recently featured in StandUp Paddle Magazine, a publication that focuses on Stand Up Paddle Boarding.
All of the conditions that make the Outer Banks a classic surf destination, friendly locals, uncrowded breaks (most of the year), consistent surf in a variety of conditions, and potential for amazing waves under perfect conditions, also apply to Stand Up Paddle Boarding (aka SUP).
From a broad perspective, SUP is pretty much longboarding while holding a large paddle, but there’s more than meets the eye. SUP is a fantastic full body workout that focuses on “core” muscles, and you don’t need waves to enjoy a paddle and a workout….although it is much more fun (and challenging) with waves. SUP can be fun and physically challenging on flat water as well as in hefty waves.
SUP also allows experienced paddlers to catch waves earlier than traditional surfers, giving the advantage of a longer ride. SUP boards are long, usually 10 foot plus, and the paddle allows you to pick up speed faster than paddling with your arms like traditional surfers, both aspects that help catch waves early.
The OBX offers ideal SUP conditions. There is plenty of great scenary around the Sound to enjoy an interesting paddle, which is a great way to learn the sport and gain experience. And there is 200 miles of coast that offers the potential to enjoy great waves.
“Know Your Park” – Citizen Science Series on the Outer Banks
The Know Your Park citizen science series for the North Carolina coast begins its third season with a discussion of Raleigh After Roanoke.
The National Park Service Outer Banks Group sponsors the series, which begins the new season Monday at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Visitor Center near Manteo. The president of the board of directors of the First Colony Foundation, Phil Evans, will speak.
Phil Evans’ presentation will compare maps to show Roanoke Island’s geography and terrain have changed. In addition, foundation archaeologists will update the audience on upcoming field excavations.
The foundation is conducting research with the goal of locating habitation areas of England’s first and second New World settlements sponsored by Sir Walter Raleigh in the 1580s.
New Outer Banks Park?
Dare County is planning a new 11-acre park in Kitty Hawk.
A county posting is seeking architectural and engineering services for the park which is planned for a parcel of land across from the town Fire Department on Kitty Hawk Road.
As planned, the park will be adjacent to Kitty Hawk Woods and consist of:
- 1,800 foot walking trail with markers and benches
- Dog park
- Picnic area
- Skate park
- Play ground
- Double tennis court
- Basketball court
This would be a great addition to the area. Applications will be opened October 30th in Manteo.
Movie Being Filmed at Jockey’s Ridge
Filming for a new sci-fi movie began at Jockey’s Ridge State Park on October 8, 2009.
Obsidian Collective, a media production start-up company began shooting its first film. The company was founded with director Ben Carland and some other friends from the town of Hendersonville. The company’s first film will be titled “Sol.” It will be a Sci-fi drama that will have plenty of suspense in the mix. Here’s a quick synopsis o f plot…
When five young men become stranded on a desolate planet with meager resources, the potential for disaster seems unavoidable — to find out their fate, you’ll have to wait until the film hits the theaters.
Carland is very optimistic about working on the Outer Banks. “Our hope is that having the blog will pull people in throughout the entire process and get them interested in it,” Huffman says. “You can watch this feature film unfold — and because we’re a hometown operation — you might have some relation to the people in it.” Carland will be keeping a blog updated during the time that they will be filming on the Outer Banks. You can keep up with the project and watch the film as it unfolds at the “Sol” Development Blog.
Behind the Scenes of the Outer Banks Marathon
Behind the scenes of the 2009 Outer Banks Marathon
When you hear the word “marathon,” you may wonder why anyone with a sound mind would choose to run such a distance. What’s often forgotten is the enormous effort required by race organizers to ensure each participant has a safe and positive experience.
The Outer Banks Marathon is unique, in that it is a non-profit event run mostly by a staff of volunteers, whose main objectives are shoulder season economic development and raising money for the Dare Education and the Outer Banks Relief Foundations. “Everything we do is for the community. From raising money for the Foundations, to generating revenue for our local business owners,” stated Amy Montgomery, Executive Director of the Dare Education Foundation.
The Executive Committee tasked with making the marathon a success is comprised of business owners, community leaders, and everyday citizens wanting to make a difference. With such a diverse group of individuals, there’s no mistaking what brings them together, passion. “I work with the most amazing group of people who get things done. It’s such a wonderful thing for the community,” said Jill Bennett, Co-Chair of Marketing. Everything from logistics, volunteer coordination, marketing, etc. is handled by the committee.
If you’ve never had the opportunity to peek behind the scenes of a marathon, you would surely be impressed by how many pieces have to come together to make the puzzle work. Water, finishing mats, towels, t-shirts, chips, and security are just a few of the logistical needs crucial for the safety and enjoyment of the runners. “There are over 6 government entities involved in making this race happen. They all work very well together,” acknowledged Mike Kelly, Logistics Co-Chair. “They know what to expect and have already prepared for what might happen.”
Beyond the sheer enormity of what’s involved in organizing such an event, lies the sincere effort of the committee to give back to Dare County. “The course was designed to include several jurisdictions. Running from Kitty Hawk to Manteo gives the entire community a chance to get involved,” stated Webb Fuller, Government Liaison. Off-season economic development has also been a key focus for the committee. Mille Ward, Hospitality Co-Chair declared, “Everything from the time and date of the race to the pasta party was done in such a way to encourage people to patronize local businesses. Runners are staying for the weekend and in some cases the entire week and taking advantage of all the Outer Banks has to offer. This has been a tremendous benefit to the local business owners in the off season.”
With the race just a few weeks away, organizers are gearing up for last minute preparations. If you aren’t running and want to lend a helping hand, volunteers are still needed. Email volunteer Coordinator, Merry Mendelson at volunteer@obxmarathon.org for more information. There’s plenty of room on the course for spectators as runners pass through your neighborhood on November 8th.
The Outer Banks Marathon, presented by the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, the Gateway Bank Half Marathon, the Outer Banks 8K and the Kelly Hospitality Group Fun Run are the annual signature fundraising events for the Dare Education Foundation and the Outer Banks Relief Foundation. For more information about the Outer Banks Marathon, visit www.obxmarathon.org.
Great specials on vacation rental homes still available.
Update on New Outer Banks Bridge – Mid-Currituck Bridge
A new Outer Banks toll bridge that will connect mainland Currituck to the Currituck beaches is continuing to progress.
In April, the state Turnpike Authority entered an agreement with Spanish firms ACS Infrastructure Development and Dragados USA to determine if the project is financially feasible and possibly become investors for it. The bridge will span about five miles and tolls will be estimated to be in the range of $10-$15 for a one way trip. It is projected that the bridge will earn $7 million in revenue the first year. By 2025, traffic counts are expected to average 19,200 daily on summer weekends, with tolls at $12 and annual revenue of $24.9 million. The state budget includes $15 million annually in public money to help finance the project.
The idea of the bridge is to alleviate the traffic congestion entering the Outer Banks. Some predict that this bridge could potentially reduce the trip to Corolla by an hour. Currently, all travelers heading to Corolla have to travel south to Kitty Hawk, and in effect make a u-turn to head north on Rt. 12.
An environmental impact statement on the bridge is expected by the end of the year. Construction is scheduled to begin in February and be finished in 2013. For more, click here.
Outer Banks Marathon is Right Around the Corner – Great Specials Available
The 4th Annual Outer Banks Marathon and Half Marathon are taking place Veterans Day weekend – November 7-8, 2009 – on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Join some of the best runners in the world as they trek over the beautiful landscape of the Outer Banks.
The Outer Banks Marathon and Half Marathon offer a unique course that’s breathtakingly beautiful, a fun EXPO and post-race “Pirate Jamboree,” wonderful community support and a chance to spend a weekend on the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina. Learn more about all of the events – including the Expo and Pasta Party – during the 4th Annual Outer Banks Marathon weekend…
Fall on the Outer Banks
The fall is arguably the best time of year to fully experience the unique charm that only the Outer Banks can offer…locals favorite time of year.
After September, the beach quiets down just in time for perfect fall weather; warm days and cool nights. Empty beaches, warm water, best time of year for surfing some the best surf on the East Coast, and amazing fishing. Restaurants are much less crowded and the dining is still first class, and many stores remain open all winter for shopping.
Plenty to see and do outside as well – Jockey’s Ridge, Pea Island, Hatters National Sea Shore, 4 gorgeous lighthouses, Nags Head Woods Preserve, wild horses, and the list goes on.
One of the best advantages of the fall…save some money. You will find substantially lower rates during the fall.
One of the Outer Banks’ best kept secrets, the off-season.
Winter Education Series on the Outer Banks
Currituck Heritage Park Winter Educational Series
COROLLA IN RETROSPECT
* Getting Here * Making It Here * Surviving Here
Experience life in the past from a panel of local experts; Come prepared to participate! Refreshments served. No cost to attend. Donations welcome.
CURRITUCK HERITAGE PARK IS LOCATED PAST MILEPOST 11 ON RT. 12 N. IN COROLLA, NC.
ALL SEMINARS WILL BE HELD IN THE OUTER BANKS CENTER FOR WILDLIFE EDUCATION.
Reservations Required. Please call 252-453-9040 ext 3.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 9:30 am
MAKING IT HERE
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Local Recipes
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Living off the Land
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Historical Traditions
Tuesday, January 12, 2010 9:30 am
SURVIVING HERE
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Storm Stories
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Passing the Time
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Seasonal Skills
Tuesday, February 9, 2010 9:30 am
GETTING HERE
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Boats
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Carts
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Automobiles
Co-Sponsored by the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and The Whalehead Club at Currituck Heritage Park. Each facility will be open for Tours.
Wright Brothers Book – “Conquering the Sky”
In North Carolina schools, children are taught that December 17th, 1903 is the date that the Wright Brothers took to the sky with flight. Larry E. Tise, author and historian, feels that there are several other dates that are just as important.
Tise believes that May 8-14th, 1908 is equally important because the world truly began to notice of the Wright Brothers. Before, the flights were solo with only one brother operating the plan, but by 1908, both brothers could experience flight together, and they were able to remain air born for a few minutes.
Tise’s new book Conquering The Sky tells the tale of these two extraordinary people that made it possible for humans to take flight. The book paints a picture of all the hard work and preparation that went into making this astonishing achievement. This book is considered to be the most detailed account of the events leading up to their famous flights and is a must read for any Outer Banks Lover.
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