CLOSE-OUT RE-ENTRY

While the purpose of a simple re-entry, frontside or backside, is generally to pass a section or a foam to link another turn, the closeout re-entry aims to exploit the very last bit of section of a wave which closes out by finishing with a bang, and if possible, ending cleanly in front of the wave. A close-out re-entry is an exclamation point on a well-surfed wave! 😉

 

 

Arrive with speed, maximum speed. If your speed is too low you will be thrown off by the section that closes out. On powerful waves the pros will attack the section with the board totally vertical. Conversely, if the wave is rather soft, adopt a less radical trajectory so as not to get stuck on top of the wave. Be careful though, attacking a too powerful close-out can be terribly violent for your board and your knees! If you’re a regular patient of osteoarthritis, choose a more cautious way to end your wave 😉

Attack with bent legs to keep a margin in case of destabilization. Present the hull to the lip and the foam, not the rail. On a backside re-entry, just before reaching the lip, begin the rotation with your head and shoulders. If done well you will then be in compression on your back leg on the lip with your gaze towards the line you just drew on the wave. Stay firm but flexible if the foam is high because it is not a smooth surface and you will have to guide the board on this field of bumps. The key is to recenter on the board on the way down. Attack even faster and you’re guaranteed some air time 😉 Surfer: Malo, GONG team rider on the Devil’s Tongue EPS.