Foil Drive | Backstage Pass to the Making of "Blue Highway"

This blog recounts the incredible journey that Paul Cooper and Josh Ku, two Foil Drive sponsored athletes, recently embarked on. They spent a week in Paul’s hometown of Hawaii, capturing footage for an extraordinary Foil Drive project. Their adventure culminated in an unprecedented crossing from Molokai to Oahu on their prone foil boards, setting a new benchmark in the world of Foil Drive adventures.

Arrival and Unpredictable Conditions

A Challenging Start

Upon Josh's arrival in Hawaii, he and Paul were greeted by uncharacteristically rough weather. Weeks of erratic winds and storms had plagued the area. Fortunately, the weather took a turn for the better the day after Josh landed, setting the stage for their epic journey. Their initial day on the South Shore presented waves larger than Josh had ever seen there, reaching six feet.

A Surfer's Paradise

Their first adventure was at a spot on Waikiki's main part, now becoming known as a Foil Drive haven. The swell was immense and unpredictable, making it difficult for prone surfers but ideal for their Foil Drives. They took full advantage of this, zigzagging across the massive waves, much like backcountry snowboarders navigating powder. The challenging conditions kept most surfers away, giving them the freedom to explore the waves undisturbed.

Preparation and Execution

Making the Most of the Conditions

The unusual swell conditions provided an excellent warm-up for their crossing. Every day leading up to the adventure saw the waves grow larger and cleaner. By the time they were ready for the crossing, the weather had aligned perfectly with their plans.

Gathering the Team

They assembled an exceptional team for this journey. The crew included seasoned watermen like Jacko and Kahi, experienced boat captain Dean, and talented filmmakers Matt Leong and Slater from Maui. This powerhouse team ensured they were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

The Big Day

The day of the crossing dawned with optimal conditions. The trade winds had returned, providing the ideal environment for the adventure. Despite Josh's limited downwind experience, he felt confident thanks to the team's support and expertise.

The Crossing: Molokai to Oahu

An Unforgettable Experience

Crossing the channel from Molokai to Oahu was a monumental feat. The journey, covering roughly 30 miles, is renowned for its challenging conditions. The channel's varying characteristics—from the relatively calm start to the tumultuous middle and the deceptively tranquil end kept them on their toes.

Team Dynamics and Challenges

Throughout the crossing, team dynamics played a crucial role. They leaned on each other's experiences, shared insights, and maintained a positive spirit. Even though it was considered a "two out of ten" difficulty day by local experts, it was a ten out of ten experience for the team. The immense swells and changing conditions pushed them to their limits.

Personal Triumphs

One of Josh's personal goals was to complete the crossing on a Slim Performance battery without switching out. He managed to achieve this, riding the entire distance without coming down once. This accomplishment was a testament to the Foil Drive's capabilities and the training and preparation put into this project.

Paul's Journey

Paul, with his limited downwind experience, also showcased remarkable resilience. Despite not being a seasoned downwind foiler, he navigated the crossing with confidence. His ability to read the bumps and maintain his stamina throughout the journey was impressive.

Reflections and Learnings

Overcoming Physical Challenges

The physical demands of the crossing were immense. The relentless sun, the energy required to navigate the swells, and the mental focus needed to stay upright were all significant challenges. Josh's strategy included using hydration packs with electrolytes and carrying energy gels, which proved invaluable during the crossing.

Mental Resilience

The mental aspect of the crossing was equally challenging. The fear of not being able to get back up after falling can be a significant source of anxiety. However, the Foil Drive's reliable performance in assisting with pop-ups provided a sense of security that allowed them to focus more on the experience and less on potential mishaps.

Moments of Serenity

Amidst the intensity, there were moments of pure serenity. The beauty of the ocean, the thrill of riding the swells, and the camaraderie of the team created an unforgettable experience. These moments underscored why they undertake such adventures—to push their limits, to connect with nature, and to share these incredible experiences with others.

Looking Forward

Upcoming Film Release

They are excited to share that their journey will be featured in a film to be released around the time of the Molokai 2 Oahu (M2O) races in July. Directed by Matt Leong, the film promises to showcase some of the best foiling footage ever captured. They can't wait to share their experience with the world.

Future Adventures

This crossing has only whetted their appetite for more adventures. The Foil Drive's capabilities have opened up new possibilities for exploring uncharted waters and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of foiling.

Conclusion

The crossing from Molokai to Oahu was a groundbreaking adventure that demonstrated the incredible potential of Foil Drive technology. It was a journey marked by physical challenges, mental resilience, and moments of pure exhilaration. The team looks forward to sharing their experience through the upcoming film and embarking on more epic adventures in the future.

Thank you for joining them on this journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and until next time, keep foiling and pushing your limits!