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photo: Tim Davis 2窶ジWW.REVOLTINSTYLE.COM
oakley ray ban raen smith spy sabre suncloud ntw olukai native rainbow reef sanuk patagonia pendleton schott rusty lost freshjive freestyle gshock vestal dakine destination herschel hex alva arbor blkhrt carver caster penny red ink katin jimmy’z birdwell black sheep blood is the new black chaser wildfox tavik heather heron bliss lau dafin viper churchill brownfish salty body glove excel futures fcs gary linden eaton joe baugess skullcandy sol gopro freaker felt kona linus brooks fizik
4320 mission blvd 92109
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photo by RVE
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A Long Lonely Ride
Colton Udall endures the loss of his friend, mentor & hero Kurt Caselli to find himself a champion of the Baja 1000. Photo by Devin Chatterjie
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this issue 11
publisher’s note
12
holiday gift guide
20
craft brews
22
late day / night
24
vegas in style
32
rise against interview
34
music reviews
36
movie mini reviews
38
pastor steve
45
heroic win tragic loss
47
triple set
49
derek dunfee
53
revolt surf series
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INTRODUCING
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THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED POLARIZED LENS SMITHOPTICS.COM/CHROMAPOP
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
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t’s a Wonderful Life. Christmas Story. Home Alone. Watching all these classics this Holiday season... one thing in common. Snow! Growing up in Northern California, I spent plenty of time in the white stuff. Not a ton, but enough. I can remember snowball fights with the neighborhood freaks, trudging thru the snow until my fingers & toes were frozen. Who could forget the countless trips to the nearby Cascade mountains to tear up the slopes with our crew? Those were the days... Do I miss it? Sure, nostalgia is great. Makes ya’ kinda weepy. Do I really miss it? Nah! Not on your life! Leslie & I are perfectly happy here in Southern California. Especially this Christmas. Mid seventies. Wearing shorts & flips. Sun’s out & the waves are firing. We’re stayin put... for now. If you are thinking of heading up to the snow, you know where it’s all going down. Big Bear & Snow Summit. They’re open & that’s where you want to go. Already a couple of good storms have pushed thru & more are on the way. Even so, they make their own snow every night so there’s a plenty of coverage up there. Btw: Big Bear is running some great specials right now - if you go to our website, we can hook you up with discount lift tickets and season passes. Check it out. www.revoltinstyle.com OK - Speaking of Snow... we have a great event coming up in January. The first annual Snow Down at Thrusters in PB. Nick Z is a madman. He pulled permits for a new snow festival (of sorts). A satellite viewing party for the Winter X Games finals, Jan 25th. In the parking lot, all day, Thrusters & Revolt In Style will host an event of epic proportions. Red Bull is dragging in Jumbo-Trons & Dj’s to watch all the action & get the party bumpin’. We’ll sample craft beers & winter cocktails. Gourmet food trucks will feed us all. We’ll be giving away lift tickets to Bear & all kinds of cool swag. Do not miss this one! I hope you enjoy this issue, we worked especially hard on this one for you. We went back to the dual cover format, Entertainment one direction, Action content the other. This issue also contains the eighth annual Holiday Gift Guide. We take all the guess work out of buying the perfect gift or hooking up a loved one with the Ultimate Stocking Stuffer. Merry Christmas! We also have Interviews with Rise Against, Derek Dunfee and even Pastor Steve from Newbreak Church (Holiday appropriate). We speak with MX champion Colton Udall about the Baja 1000 and the passing of his friend, mentor and hero, Kurt Caselli during the race. Strong stuff, hope it inspires you, like it did me. If I’m thankful for anything this Holiday season, it’s my wife. She’s the strongest person I know. Personal tragedy has surrounded her in 2013. First with the loss of her daughter, then the passing of her dad a few months later. I can’t even imagine. I’ve never had to deal with anything like that & dread the day that I do. But through it all, she just soldiered on & handled it. Handled everything! The mag is still in print, & the Revolt Summer Surf Series went off without a hitch. This during, what I’m pretty sure, were the worst days of her life. I’m sure anyone else would have lost it. I would have lost it, no doubt. Sad times for sure. Plenty of tears, questions & blame. But we’re still here... you have to continue on & yes, we have each other. Yes, I’m extremely thankful for my wife. Love ya girl! And on that note. I think my work here is done. I’m gonna grab another cup of Kono’s coffee (thanks Mikee) & check out the waves. Keep an eye on the website & Revolt social media. We have a big surprise for everyone next year! Revolt In Style. Happy Holidays B&L
Photo: Craig Ross
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Revolt
summer su RSSS WRAP UP Nate Carvalho captures the 2013 RSSS Men’s Pro/Am Championship title By Brian Terhorst Under near perfect beach and surfing conditions, the RSSS ran on the south side of Crystal Pier during the Pacific Beach Fest in P.B. Over 100 elite surfers from around the globe converged in San Diego on October 5th for the #4 and final event of the popular annual series. While the events are non-rated, non ASP competitions, the athletes and their sponsors take them all extremely seriously. $2500.00 is on the line for daily winners, as well as custom, handmade trophies, a ton o’ surf swag from the 30 or so sponsors, not to mention the Championship Trophies & bragging rights for the overall season champions.
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Revolt In Style Magazine has been dedicated to the establishment and development of this grassroots Pro Am Surf Series and ‘Green’ Beach Fair, supported by surfers and media from around the globe. 8 divisions make up this unique event, that has grown into one of the largest Pro Am surf series in Southern California. Other elements, including a ‘Green’ beach fair, surfboard demo’s, live DJ’s, special celebrity appearances, raffles, giveaways & beach games, add to the family friendly, festival atmosphere.
If you surf (or appreciate the sport) there’s no better place to be in October, than on the south side of Crystal Pier competing (or watching) the RSSS Pro/Am Finals. 75,000 people flock to the beach and boardwalk area during the annual Pacific BeachFest and enjoy this popular event. The RSSS Pro/Am presented by Revolt In Style Magazine is one of the signature sporting events of BeachFest that includes: Live music, sporting tournaments, a wide array of colorful displays & vendors, great food & a craft beer garden. The event is open to the public and provides a fun festival environment for the whole family.
The south side of Crystal Pier is normally a SWIM ONLY zone and is off limits to surfing year round. San Diego Parks & Rec. allows only one permit a year for surfing the classic beach break - that permit goes to the RSSS final event. Historically the event presents the athletes with fun waves and a large crowd of spectators, this year was no exception. The forecast called for waist to head high waves, 65- 69 degree water and 85 degree sunny beach weather. The forecast held true. The competitors were stoked on the conditions and excited with the great turnout. Competition was fierce all day and the Smith Optics Grudge Match format made for some great upsets & interesting strategy. The sizeable crowd enjoyed multiple sponsor tents and displays with interactive games, while announcer ‘Party Boy Pete’ and contest director Phil Antonopoulos kept everyone entertained and up to speed on the surfing competition all day.
Last minute sponsors like Hoven Vision, SkyDive San Diego and NewBreak Church joined the other sponsors to help make the largest surf series in San Diego a huge success. Red bull hooked up each event with special guest VIP appearances all season, including Carissa Moore & DJ’s like Chris Cutz & G-Roy. Red Bull artist DJ Cheeks performed to the crowd from the over-the-top custom built Red Bull MXT vehicle. DJ DeVoy performed during the Official RSSS After Party at The Duck Dive Bar & Grill later that evening. Nate Carvalho was awarded the 2013 RSSS Pro Am overall Championship title. Carlsbad local Kevin Shultz had a standout day winning the Men’s Pro Am division. Junior division local PB ripper Jay Christenson took top spot and overall season points winner. Women’s Pro Am winner Emmy Merrill was on fire and took the Women’s SUP win as well. Bethany Zolesko topped the Jr. Women’s Division.
urF Series
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2013 RSSS 7.0 Season Points Winners: Smith Optics Grudge Match Pro/Am - Nate Carvalho Juniors - Jay Christenson Groms -Tanner Ford Women’s Pro/Am - Maya Saulino Jr. Women’s - Maya Saulino Men’s SUP Surf - Daniel Hughes Women’s SUP Surf - Mel Wygal Jr. SUP Surf - Peter Shoemaker For complete 2013 season gallery go to www.revoltsurfseries.com
Little rippers Quin Raminski, Vinnie Whibbs and Tim Daudin battled for podium spots in the Grom division. The Brazilian Vaz brothers gave Daniel Hughes and Chuck Glenn a run for the money in the Men’s SUP surf, while the women’s division was full with fun loving friends. Although Pete Shoemaker was edged out to third place in Junior SUP Surf by Yuri Daberkow and Noa Hopper he still had the last laugh with the overall season win. Congrats and a HUGE THANK YOU to all the athletes that competed and support this unique event! The sportsmanship and respect that these athletes share with each other is both impressive and inspirational. The many parents that are in attendance at these events should all be proud. And yes, thank you parents for your support, encouragement and endless miles traveled to transport your kids to all these events! A total of $2500.00 was awarded Saturday in the Pro Am and SUP Surf Divisions. Top riders in all divisions received epic, hand made trophies by Troy Rodarmel of United 50 clothing as well as the legendary RSSS ‘swag bags’ overflowing with awesome surf gear from all of of our great sponsors. Special THANKS to all of our amazing sponsors this season: Red Bull, Alpinestars, Smith Optics, Split USA, Dedicated Ride Co., EcoXGear, Kicker Audio, Hoven Vision, Mission Surf, Maui & Sons, Patagonia, Tru Beach, Sky Dive San Diego, Sector 9 and Gravity Skateboards, Kings Paddlesports, Riviera Paddlesurf, Art In Surf SUP, OEX Point Loma, Victory Core Dry, NewBreak Church, The Progress Project, The Surfrider Foundation, Wildcoast, SD Coastkeepers & EcoWater. Also The Duck Dive Bar & Grill, The Wavehouse, Wonderland Ocean Pub, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, SD Pizza Co. and of course... Discover P.B. And last but not least, Thanks to our talented photographers: Aaron Goulding of www.jagmediaproductions.com, Ronald Hons of www.surfingeye.com, Toby Ogden of www.tobyogden.com , Miles Bernardez of www.milesbernardez.com. Check out their incredible work at www.revoltsurfseries.com or www.facebook.com/revoltsurf
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Event #4 Results Smith Optics Grudge Match Pro/Am 1. Kevin Shultz 2. Michael Ciarmella 3. Austin Ware 4. Cody Sherman Womens Pro/Am 1.Emmy Merrill 2.ALexa Dilley 3.Kati Kai Minami 4. Kitsy Nipper Juniors 1.Jay Christenson 2.Kyle Crompton 3.Jordan Erickson 4.Tanner Ford 5.Noah Sullivan Jr. Womens 1.Bethany Zolesko 2. Kira Stanley 3.Hannah Belton 4. Kitsy Nipper Groms 1. Quin Raminski 2. Vinnie Whibbs 3.Tim Daudin 4.Deagan Raminski 5.Ashton Horowitz 6.Andrew Mitchell Men’s SUP 1. Ciao Vaz 2. Dan Hughes 3. Ian Vaz 4.Geovani Perez 5. Chuck Glynn 6. David Groener Women’s SUP 1.Emmy Merrill 2.Diane Wenzel 3.Mel Wygal 4.Nicole O’neil 5.Gail Vento 6.Christine Shoemaker Jr. SUP 1. Yuri Daberkow 2.Noa Hopper 3.Peter Shoemaker 4.Ryan Maloney 5.Graydon Church
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THE INTERVIEW Words & Photos by Aaron Goulding
A
mong the hoards of surfers worldwide there are but a few names that survive through the years, Eddie Aikau, Gerry Lopez, Bruce Brown, Robert August, Lisa Anderson, Miki Dora, Mike Hynson…you get the idea.
Derek Dunfee has progressed quickly throughout recent years setting him up to become one of the names that will stand the test of time with stories of legend to be told for years. Like most of his predecessors, it’s not his intention to become a legend, it’s in his blood to be one of the best surfers on the planet. As of now he is one of the most respected surfers in the world because of his determination and passion for big wave riding. But what’s most impressive about this athlete is that he is not only a surfer. He has an amazing eye for photography and filmmaking and his writing is superb. I caught Derek between his travels to gain some more insight on his past, present and future. Revolt In Style: How old were you and who influenced you when you began surfing? Derek Dunfee: My dad taught me how to surf when I was really young, but I didn’t start to surf everyday until I was 11 or 12. I grew up at Windansea beach in La Jolla, and a few of people from there who influenced me were Saxon Boucher, Richard Kenvin, Henry Hunt, Joel Tudor & Joe Roper. All of the guys in the old Taylor Steele movies were the best in surfing and influenced me big time. Some of my favorite surfers were Archy, Shane Dorian, Tom Curren, Taylor Knox, Slater and the Irons brothers. RIS: What’s the best surfing memory you have to date? DD: One of my biggest accomplishments and best surfing memories was when I caught the 2008/2009 biggest paddle in wave of the year at Mavericks. I broke my leg really bad 5 months before the huge swell and worked really hard to prepare that winter. Overcoming the injury and catching the biggest wave that year gave me a huge appetite and motivation to surf bigger waves. RIS: Why giant waves? Your home break is here in San Diego. What made you decide you wanted to surf mountains? DD: I have surfed my entire life and it felt like a real natural progression into big waves. I didn’t just decide one day to do it.
DEREK
DUNFE
30 years old, from La Jolla, A California Surfer, A Photographer, A Filmmak
I spent years surfing in Hawaii and other places with heavy waves, slowy working my way into bigger and bigger waves. I gained more experience the older I got, which helped me be the more focused. Over the last 5 years, I started to spend more time exercising and dialing in a healthy program during the winter. I feel comfortable in the ocean and big surf. It’s funny, I get more nervous and anxious traveling to these places, than when I’m in the water. RIS: What’s it like going up against some of the world’s surfing legends? DD: I love it. I have a group of big wave surfing friends that I have known for a long time. I have a lot of respect for these guys and we all push eachother to go bigger and bigger. Everyone is very competitive, but we all want to be safe when the waves are big. We all look out for eachother when the waves are big and we have started to bring trained water safety teams out into the big surf. Its like any other sport or profession, you need to give and show respect to get respect. I hope I get a chance to compete this year in the Mavericks event and the Eddie contest at Waimea bay.
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EE
ker, A Writer...
RIS: How do you train for events like Maverick’s? DD: I am always active. I surf everyday and constantly workout or do yoga. I had a strength and condiiton coach named Rob Garcia last year and he is one of the best. He’s worked with Oscar De la hoya, and Kelly Slater. My brother Shane used to run a crossfit studio in San Diego, but he just moved back to Maui. Recently, I have been working out with Trevor from Excel Fitness in La Jolla. Besides that, I do long distance paddling one or two times a week and last year I did a freedive/breath-hold class. I took that class so that I could understand what was happening inside my body during a long big wave hold down. You would be surprised at how long you could hold your breath. My record was 4 minutes. I also try and do Bikram Yoga a few times a week.
RIS: What photographer, dead or living, inspires you the most? DD: My twin brother Taylor. He always shared insight and always pushed me to shoot more. He has a unique eye for photography and is always supportive. You can check out his work at www.tsfphoto.com and he posts some crazy photos on instagram.
RIS: What type of photography are you most passionate about and why? DD: I love all types of photography. My twin brother went to the Brooks Institute of Photography, so he taught me everything I know. I have been shooting with all types of cameras from a Canon DSLR, to Yashica, Holga, Widelux Panoramic. I enjoy shooting film. I try and bring a few rolls on every trip.
RIS: What got you into film and do you have any current projects you are working on or any new releases you can discuss? DD: I went to Mesa Community College and SDSU, and a few of my elective classes were in film. After I broke my leg in 2008, I made a short film about it called Down with the Ship. - continued on pg.32
RIS: Nikon or Canon and why? DD: Canon, that’s what I started shooting with along time ago and stuck with it. When I started shooting water stuff, I met the guys from Del Mar Water Housings. They were shooting mainly with Canon, so that kinda influenced me. I’m not one to argue whether Canon or Nikon is better, but I do love shooting video from the Canon DSLR.
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It’s funny, I get more nervous and anxious traveling to these places, than when I’m in the water. I showed how I broke my leg then 5 months later caught the biggest wave in the world. I was nominated for 2 surfer poll awards, and I ended up winning one. That inspired me to keep making videos. Recently, I wrote and directed my first film called SHVDE. I also spent the last two years making a high action big wave short film called Three Wolves, and that short premiered through a website called dessillusion magazine, www.dslmag.com. RIS: Are you a freelance writer or do you write for anyone in particular? And when did this become a passion of yours? DD: Yes, I am a freelance writer. Over the last 5 or more years, I have written featured stories for Surfer/Surfing/Transworld magazines. I have always enjoyed to write, and I’m lucky to have the opportunity to work with a few of the surf magazines RIS: Throughout time there are people that help to push one along the way. Did you have any sort of help with your current surfing, writing, photography or filming status? DD: I am very fortunate to have a family who were always supportive of me and my dreams. Big wave surfer’s Zach Wormhoudt and Evan Slater were some of my biggest influences and help when I was first getting into big wave surfing. Photographer Todd Glaser helped me a lot too. We travel a lot and he was always happy to share the tech side of photography. Surfing Magazine photo editor Pete Taras was very encouraging and pushed me to shoot more. Taylor Paul and Chas Smith have been helping me a lot recently with my writing. Videographer Erik Derman has been making some rad videos for a long time, and we have been working together on some fun projects. My twin brother Taylor works a steady job doing photography and he spends most night doing art. He always pushes me to work harder and try new things. RIS: Finally where’s your favorite place to eat in La Jolla? DD: El Pescador - Rimels - The Promsicuous Fork. Thanks aaron!
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OUT OF TOWN SHREDDER What ifs and whatevers with Breyden Taylor By Joe Foster Name: Breyden Taylor Age: 19 Homebreak: Lowers Sponsors: Body Glove, Filtrate Eyewear, Creatures of Lei-
sure, Lost Surfboards, Stance and Watermans.
RIS: What if you couldn’t surf? BT: I would probably die. Then become the next Bieber. RIS: What if you lost an arm? BT: I would do my best to keep surfing. RIS: What if the internet wasn’t around? BT: That would probably be better cause girls would talk and not sit on their phones. RIS: What if you only had 3 days to live? BT: I would get a plane ticket and go all around the world very quick! RIS: What if all the wax in the world melted? BT: I would stock up on pads. RIS: What if you were given three wishes? BT: I would wish for money so I could do what i want and probably wish for more wishes! RIS: What if you couldn’t walk anymore? BT: That would be hard It would be hard to find motivation for anything. RIS: What if there were no such things as tubes? BT: Probably wouldn’t even surf! RIS: What if the world was ending? BT: I would go hang with every girl in the world probably!! RIS: What if music wasn’t around? BT: There would be no rhythm in this world. RIS: What if you had to start school all over? BT: I would die. RIS: What if you could fly? BT: That would be the greatest thing in the world. RIS: What if dogs could talk? BT: They would probably say some heavy stuff! But that would be rad. RIS: What if Obama was kicked out of office? BT: That would be rad! RIS: What if you could only live in one place for the rest of your life where would it be? BT: San Clemente, California.
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Photos by Rich Van Every & Mike Blabac
Downtown San Diego - Skateboarding on one side, pool party on the other. Totally different scene. photo MB On the roof top of the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego Red Bull Triple Set served as yet another example of the level of skateboarding we continue to witness on the daily. A mixture of pros and ams competed for $10,000 as well as the all important bragging rights. Judges, Neal Mims, Felix Arguelles, and Rod James brought order to the madness.
Ryan Sheckler - Fresh off his Dew Tour victory in San Francisco made the trek down I-5 from his home in San Clemente finishing 3rd. photo: RVE
Jordan Hoffart - The San Diego local showed up, both literally and figuratively earning himself a second place check. photo: RVE
Simon Stricker - Nollie Nosegrind. photo: RVE
Sewa Kroetkov - The Dutchmen turned Santa Monica resident continued to skate the triple set long after competition was over. It’s safe to say he loves to skate. photo: RVE
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Sheckler - This is what a picture perfect backside tailslide looks like from the roof. photo MB
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Each year down in Baja Mexico, the culture that creates the Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 race enlists for a treacherous journey, willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice for their sport.
photo by MB
Photography and Interview by Devin Chatterjie
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t is a cold November as the streets in Baja California fill with a culture of speed enthusiasts. The gladiators of this sport crave the feeling, the Baja feeling…ultimate freedom. The feeling that was once the American spirit in the Wild West before America made almost everything illegal. The Baja region is a land frozen in time with untouched natural beauty where we can put our latest innovations in the quest of speed to the test. In this arena, the sand, cacti, rocks, and harsh elements are your judges. During this race, every decision is life or death. Desert racing is where the fortitude of a man is measured not by cheering crowds, but by the tight-knit community of the few who can personally relate to the level of perseverance needed to survive this adventure. Baja is a place where this one off-road race is as big as the Super Bowl. This elite group of motocross athletes stands as unsung heroes of the USA and grow to larger than life action figures south of the border. This appreciation for the sport comes from the recognition that these teams will put everything on the line to live out their passions and dreams of self-fulfillment in reaching that finish. Nothing else matters. Names like Ivan Stewart, Steve McQueen, Malcolm Smith, Larry Roeseler, Mickey Thompson, and Steve Hengeveld are just a few of the heroes that the peninsula has put to the test. Though racing a truck or any four-wheeled vehicle in this race and winning is a huge accomplishment, the ultimate victory and respect is reserved for the professional motorcycle class. One name every devout off-road/motocross racer or fan must know is Johnny Campbell. As a living legend with 11 overall Baja 1000 titles to his name and still going strong today, he has built a race team in a league of their own. He shares his knowledge with his painstakingly selected and groomed protégés to continue the JCR legacy. His comfort in Baja is obvious when you see his wife and kids among his entourage watching him live out his dreams of greatness. This confidence has come from years of experience and an ability to anticipate and overcome the gamut of challenges along the way. The JCR team riders for the 2013 Baja 1000 consisted of Timmy Weigand, David Kamo, Mark Samuels, and Colton Udall. These men are at the top of their game and Baja racing is a way of life. Colton Udall is a young champion who has lived more in his short 27 years than many active people do in a lifetime. The JCR Honda team riders have earned the title as one of the best race teams in the world. This world-class team is owned and guided by Johnny Campbell. With 17 straight Baja 1000 Championships under their belt, their relentless training schedule is a necessity to ensure they maintain their dynasty.
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photo by MB
The lifestyle of a Baja Racer has a level of commitment rarely seen in any other sport. There are great demands on their personal life with fitness, training, pre-running and the rest of the homework involved. Their families and teammates make great sacrifices to ensure they have the right resources, tools, and support they need. The risk involved is something that any successful motorsports competitor is familiar with whether they ride two wheels or four. Fear is a liability. The presence of fear of injury is not an option. Focus in its most divine form is the high that these riders are hopelessly addicted to. Being fully consumed and totally committed to that present moment is when a racer reaches their “flow state” and everything slows down. Few have the skill set to be a part of this unique family. Intimate relationships with teammates and other competitors is more than just knowing and respecting your competition, it’s about survival. This brotherhood is one that is bonded in both glory and pain. The glory is sharing some of the most divine experiences and moments of self-fulfillment and freedom, and the pain of losing everything with the force of life being taken away from your friends or family. Colton has endured the loss of one of his best friends, Jeff “Ox” Kargola, and his close friend, mentor and childhood hero, Kurt Caselli. Both men were extremely gifted and accomplished racers who gave their lives living their dream in the Baja Arena. Baja forges lifelong bonds with the people they share these experiences with. No one else could understand without living that moment. The level of trust these riders have in their teammates is unique. They are their lifeline. The appreciation of the life lived in these moments together will make for memories that will never be forgotten.
Q & A with Colton Udall Revolt In Style: When did you start riding and what got you into Baja Racing? Colton Udall: I first started riding in 1998 at 12 years old. I learned in the sand out at Ocotillo Wells. I must have fallen down 15 times. 10 years later Cameron Steele talked me into racing my first Baja 1000. I always said I would never race in Mexico and now it’s my life! It’s an amazing place. RIS: Is it tougher physically or mentally to recover from your injuries? CU: I think it’s tougher physically to recover from injuries, I am always in such a hurry to get back to 100% and I have very little patients when I am injured. So, I always push the limit, I get told to relax but never really listen. RIS: Do you have any superstitions you have to honor before you race? CU: I am not very superstitious before a race, it’s usually only on practice day. I never say “one more lap” or say that I am done riding and go back out. That’s when the bad things happen. I do always have to have my earplugs in, if I don’t, my day is usually ruined. RIS: What has being on the JCR team done for your career and how has Johnny Campbell helped you most with learning about do’s/don’ts of Baja? CU: I can’t say that I wouldn’t be successful in some other type of racing like motocross and supercross but JCR helped guide me in the right direction. I have learned so much since 2008 when I first started learning from Johnny. When you work with an 11-time champion you have to be a sponge because there is so much to learn and Baja racing is so gnarly that you never stop learning. I just have a huge head start over my competition with WWW.REVOLTINSTYLE.COM 21 his help!
RIS: What is your favorite and least favorite thing about racing south of the border? CU: There are so many joys of Baja, the people, the freedom, the beauty, I think I really like the freedom of being able to ride anywhere you want. My least favorite thing is the safety, it’s been a huge bummer loosing some great people in my life, but I guess that’s the risk we are willing to take. We have to all except the possibility and enjoy what Baja has given us. RIS: How much time do you spend a year riding and pre running in Baja? CU: I spend roughly 2 months in a Baja a year. Whether it’s racing in the 250/500/1000, doing fun trail rides, surf trips, or even family vacations. I hope to have a house in Baja one day, I love it so much. RIS: Any advice for someone aspiring to race the Baja 1000? CU: The biggest advice I have for a fresh Baja racer is to be prepared. Ask questions, learn the racecourse, learn your surroundings, and learn your VCP’s (virtual check points). Build your Race Bike or Race Car well, limit mechanical RIS: What’s it like leading a race in Baja?? CU: Leading a race is always an amazing feeling, a feeling of strength and power, a feeling of dominance over all other competitors. But Baja is uncontrollable, Baja owns everyone who races on that Peninsula, you can never beat Baja, so all you can do is manage yourself, be prepared for the unimagined. Horses, Cattle,
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Rabbits, Dogs, people, cars, barbed wire fences, giant whoops, even bigger rocks, cliffs, other competitors, so many dangers to look out for when racing in Baja but something about the freedom makes you love it!
“Leading a race is always an amazing feeling... a feeling of strength and power, a feeling of dominance over all other competitors.” RIS: What do you think about in-between pits when you know your lead is super close? CU: My thoughts while racing usually never go past what I am doing that moment, but when the lead is close, sometimes you can let yourself go. You can get caught up in the moment and allow yourself to ride way too fast. It’s usually a bad idea to loose control of immediate thoughts because of the high speeds and all the dangers. So I always focus on keeping the motorcycle 100% and getting through my race section, nailing my lines, holding the bike wide open, making sure I hand the bike off to my next racing partner. RIS: What do you have to say to people that call Honda (your team) ‘Cheaters’ or don’t understand Score Racing and Line Choice? CU: Those people are uneducated and lack knowledge of Baja. You need to understand the history of Baja
Racing and how it all started. Racing began in the late 60’s in Mexico and the participants used a telegraph to check when they arrived to certain locations. The first man to La Paz, Mexico BC checked in and won the race! Over the years the racing has progressed, from check point to check point, to now. We are racing with Virtual Check Points (VCP’s) and live tracking. But we are still racing Baja, we are still able to pre run and learn the fastest ways through the race course. So that’s what the JCR team does, we are prepared on race day, we know where we can and can’t go, and we race our absolute best! People don’t like the same guys winning all the time. Honda is the proven winner for 17 years, but I have only won a couple times, so I am still fresh, I think. RIS: What’s the longest section you’ve raced in Baja? CU: In 2010 and 2012 I raced roughly 360 miles straight, I was on the bike for over 6 hours. It’s pretty gnarly on your body but the most important thing is to keep your mind focused. If you loose focus, really bad things happen, especially when you’re riding wide open 100 mph through the desert. RIS: What’s your favorite part about racing? CU: I race motorcycles for a bunch of reasons, its my life, my passion, and there is always a new challenge. You never know the outcome on race day, you can just do your best, so the challenge keeps me pushing forward. I think I was destined to do this, I set some huge
goals at a young age and with some help, I am achieving them. With each achievement comes the next challenge, that’s why we live, to overcome challenges, achieve personal greatness and be happy. Racing makes me Happy! RIS: What are the other teams missing? CU: I believe most teams are lacking a great leader. A person to help with a strategy, preparation, advice and guidance. Everyone on the team must respect the leader, and bond with all other team members. Whether its the pit crews, chase truck drivers, mechanics, riders, and sponsors, everyone must have the same goal, and its to win. RIS: What other sports or activities keep you balanced? CU: I really love surfing; I could be a pro surfer in my after life (dreaming) After a day of riding and training, I always try to go for a surf. Nothing puts a bigger smile on my face! I also still do some work on my dirt bikes and keeps me appreciating what I have and the opportunities I have been given. RIS: What would you do with 10 Million Dollars? CU: Start with an epic surf trip with some of my buddies. Come home and learn real estate, invest in property, invest in LTD and RED i! Start a JCR trophy truck team and be the first person/team to win the pro motorcycle and trophy truck class in the same Baja 1000. RIS: What would you do if you had to stop racing? CU: I hate this question! I have no clue. Go back to being a mechanic and later pursue race promotions. RIS: What does your future hold? What are your goals & what are your expectations? CU: I am going to continue racing Baja and the SCORE series. I am not sure I will ever be 11-time Baja Champ like Johnny Campbell but I am going to try! On my road to some more championships I am going to practice some navigational training and try to race DAKAR. Dakar brings a whole new set of challenges, I’d love to win one day.
Colton Udall’s Perspective of the 2013 Baja 1000 as posted on his facebook: “This years Baja 1000 was a very unique race for all competitors racing motorcycles and quads. The race would start at 11 pm on Thursday November 14th and the course would stretch just over 885 miles, the longest loop race in history! Starting in Ensenada, heading southeast over the famous “new summit” to Laguna Salada and down to San Felipe. From San Felipe the race course heads towards Gonzaga and the farthest southern point, El Crucero, heading west towards the coast and then back to Catavina, Colonet, Mikes Sky Ranch, and eventually Ojos Negros to the finish. Another addition to this year Baja 1000 was qualifying where the Pro classes would all hang it out over a 3 mile course to get the first starting spot. Qualifying was very important because it is nearly impossible to make a pass at night in the dust with the headlight illuminating your path. 8:30 pm! The alarm goes off on my phone. I shower the sleep away, eat some amazing carne asada and guacamole from Bronco’s steak house and begin stretching for my 280 mile 6 hour night race! I head to the starting line ready for my 7th Baja 1000. The SCORE officials mount all the proper tracking devices on the bike and I take a few pictures. 11pm was approaching quickly and Kurt Caselli fired his bike and lined up first, I was second and David Pearson was third off the line. As Kurt sped away two minutes
felt like an eternity waiting for the green flag but, eventually I was on my way. The next 15 miles I would experience the worst fog I have ever raced through! It was 2nd and 3rd gear on and off the throttle. I thought, I’m going to get passed and Kurt is just going away! When I got to Ojos I fell into my grove, knowing, there would be no passing until after we dropped down into the desert, where we could race with multiple line choice as long as we nailed our VCP’s. I raced steady and smooth through Honda Pits 1,2 and 3, occasionally seeing the light of the 2x bike and getting time splits all around two minutes. Kurt would pull some time on me and then I would answer. Honda 4 was a full maintenance pit, the bike went on the box and TJ, Eric, and the Hilltoppers crew made my 450x fresh again. Four hours and 200 miles into the Baja 1000 the 2x and 1x bikes were within fifty seconds, both bikes fresh and heading into some of the toughest terrain in Baja, the San Felipe whoops and Old Puertocitos road. I knew this part of the race was a very critical striking point to make a pass and fortunately I was close enough to do so. As I attacked multiple miles of whoops in the dust I could see the tail light of the 2x bike bouncing in the distance. I pushed, really hard! Breathing and making sure I didn’t hit one whoop wrong or it could end our race. Around race mile 212 I closed the small gap and made an intense 5th gear wide open pass on Kendall Norman gaining the physical lead of the race. Throughout the next 70 miles and 2 more Honda pits I kept my head down and completely spent all of my energy, trying to build as big of a lead as
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possible. After cautiously racing over the scary Old Puertocitos road I had finally gotten to the 20 miles of pavement and I could rest. I held my Honda CRF steady at 59 MPH getting to Honda Pit 6 at the “Cowpatty” restaurant and passed the bike to Mark Samuels. Mark was a last minute “fill in” rider for David Kamo, Kamo had crashed 2 weeks prior during our team mileage run and dislocated his shoulder. David would rehab his shoulder and later take on Timmy Weigands race section. Timmy had a bad pre-run crash and suffered a broken foot and concussion just 4 days before the race. Our team went through quite the mix up but we were quickly reminded by Johnny, “the Boss” that we can perceiver and the win is still within grasp. Throughout the next 500 miles KTM would close the gap and swap the lead with Mark and David multiple times. Ivan passing Mark in the pits and then Mark passing Ivan back. Racing through gnarly silt, dust, fast roads and super rocky sections. Mark would pass the bike off to David Kamo and the battle was on between he and Mike Brown. David and Brown would have a crazy 60 MPH battle through the streets of Camalu, passing buses and cars with oncoming traffic! Scary, right? David would gain the upper hand after some intense drag racing as the two riders left the pavement. Ivan Ramirez would later battle with Kamo. Kamo stopped to open a closed gate and Ivan blew by him, Kamo would try to retaliate but couldn’t push through the sketchy dust and rocks. David would keep the 2x in his sights just 45 seconds behind, sliding the fun roads of Mike’s and bringing the bike back to me, eagerly waiting at the bottom of Mikes Sky Ranch road around race mile 760. We would do a full service pit to make sure our bike was good to go to the finish. The 1x and 2x bike teams were in an epic Baja battle! 760 miles, 15 hours into the race and we were less than a minute apart. I mounted the bike and pushed the speed up to 59 MPH on the short highway section through Valle De La Trinidad, there was no time to lose. I knew Ivan was passing the bike off to Kurt and he was going to be super fast! I was pushing my limits and making up a second here and there. I stopped to fuel the bike at Honda 17 and was told we were 1 minute apart. I was going all out as I passed through Nuevo Junction and the race course jumped up onto a wide open 5th gear road. I held my 450x wide open in a full JC tuck pushing the envelope. As the road came to an end, the barbed wire fence and cattle guard came into sight, I WAS GOING WAY TOO FAST! I aimed for the opening of the cattle guard that was about 20 feet to the right of the high speed road but, I couldn’t make it. I threw the motorcycle into a 2 wheeled slide heading straight for the fence and cement/rock cattle guard. I came to an abrupt stop, breaking the fence down with the blast of the motorcycle and smashing my front wheel in the process. I regained composure feeling very fortunate I wasn’t hurt or cut by the fence. My feelings were horrible. I had just recklessly thrown away a huge effort by so many people. I sat in the desert for over 20 minutes waiting for a new front wheel, that was plenty of time to curse and call myself every name in the book, what an idiot I was!
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Honda Pit 17 to the rescue, we remounted a new front wheel, checked over the bike and proceeded down the racecourse. I still had over 90 miles to finish of the race and all I could think of was how dumb I was for crashing. My race pace wasn’t as fast as I regrouped but, I knew I still had to push and minimize the time deficit. You never know with Baja, I’ve missed VCP’s and lost the race (2011 Baja 500). About 5 miles prior to my last pit stop I passed the KTM pit and gave them a thumbs up, thinking the 2x bike was 25 minutes or so ahead and they had the win locked up. As I stopped for the last Honda Pit, the crew told me that I was in the physical lead and the KTM bike was missing. I couldn’t believe it! Another huge emotional shock went through my body. The first thing I thought was that their bike broke. So I proceeded to the finish in disbelief. “Did they just lie to me, was that a joke?” I thought. I finally passed the bike off to Timmy in the wash before town and he looked at me and said “what took so long, I’ve been here waiting forever”, he was joking and took off to the finish. My team and I celebrated the win with so much joy, like only once before (2012). I walked back to the hotel with my family and was giving out hugs, the mood was all good. Then, Faye Campbell pulled me aside with sadness in her eyes and told me words that I will never forget, words that came with such horrible surprise, words that stop your life, she told me, “Kurt didn’t make it”. My heart sank and suddenly nothing mattered, I was ruined. Kurt Caselli was one of my Hero’s. I have looked up to him since I first started racing dirt bikes as an 80 novice and he was dominating Big 6 Grand Prix in the Open Expert class. I remember seeing him jump a huge step up at Gorman and thinking, “man I want to be like him one day”. Then as I grew up and my dream became a reality, I had the opportunity to race against him at my first WORCS race, he lapped me twice. I couldn’t believe it, I thought I was fast. The next year he was walking the course with me, showing me lines and ideas I never thought about. He was helping me! I was his competition, but not really! Then, at one of the lowest times in my life (Ox passing away), Kurt offered me a ride on the US International Six Day Enduro team. I gladly accepted and began preparing. We went to Finland and raced with the best in the world. I rode like junk but, Kurt was winning special tests and proving to everyone that he is the best. We had so much fun those 2 weeks. It was actually more fun after we raced because Kurt was always having a good time, he made me feel like a brother and he was such a team player. My experience was made from Kurt and the team, not racing, racing was miserable. So Thanks Kurt, I know I have told you before, you are my Hero! Thanks for the advice. Thanks for the laughs. Thanks for roosting me. Thanks for the sick video parts. Thanks for inviting me over and trail riding. Thanks for offering your house. Thanks for critiquing me. Thanks for being a role model. Thanks for pushing me. Thanks for bringing racing to a new level EVERYWHERE. Thank you for being a HERO! YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY HERO!!”
Colton Udall 1x JCR Honda
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INSPIRATION
PASTOR STEVE THE SURFING PASTOR OF NEWBREAK CHURCH Interview By Leslie Terhorst Photo By Aaron Goulding
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astor Steve Bombaci is the teaching pastor at Newbreak Church in Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach. He loves the coast, the lifestyle of the coast, and most importantly the people of the coast. We met Pastor Steve thru the Revolt Summer Surf Series a couple of years ago. Our love of surfing is what brought us together, but it was his philosophy that made us realized how much we had in common: we’re pretty laid back, there’s no pressure & everyone is welcome.
Revolt In Style: What made you decide to become a pastor? Pastor Steve: I never thought about being a pastor, even once. After high school I was headed to San Jose State to run track and get into coaching. God had other plans for me. My best friend talked me into going to a Christian College in Santa Cruz. I only planned to go for one semester, but everything changed half way through the semester. It was one of the most powerful things I have ever e xperienced. God was calling me to be a pastor. The voice was loud and clear. It really freaked me out, but I couldn’t shake it. In the end I knew pastoring was my destiny. It was my calling.
“My vision for Newbreak is to be the kind of church where the ‘un-churched,’ the ‘church abused’ and ‘church confused’ would be welcome.”
RIS: Newbreak seems to have a pretty laid back concept, perfect for the beach area. How did this attitude come about? PS: Up until I planted a church in Pacific Beach back in 1998, I was part of churches that were more formal. I never liked the idea of wearing a suit and tie. My wife and I agreed to dress in our normal beachwear instead of dressing up. It felt so good. We invited coffee and snacks into the service and generally made it more festive. I love seeing surfers, cyclist, skateboarders and others walking into a service wearing their lifestyle. One of our core values at Newbreak is to keep things relaxed, relevant and real.
No matter your faith, at NewBreak you will find a casual, flip-flop wearing crowd that loves to laugh and have a good time. Every weekend they are there to welcome you into any one of their six campuses in San Diego. You will find a warm greeting, a fun, safe place for your children, and a life-changing message that may just apply to your life right now. This Christmas, Newbreak is partnering with several organizations to ‘Shake the planet for Jesus’. Last year, just over $30,000 was raised for Adopt an Angel. This year, the goal is to raise $35,000. Through their many partnerships, they hope to make a difference for struggling military families, rehabilitating human trafficking victims, orphans in Mexico, and the homeless right here in San Diego. All of the funds given will go directly to the groups they are partnering with. We have had the pleasure of hanging out with Pastor Steve a few times over the years and each time we leave with a smile on our face. He is simply & genuinely, a really nice guy.
RIS: How many locations do you have, and do they all have the same concept? PS: We have six locations. Our biggest campus is in Tierra Santa, but we also have campuses in El Cajon, Mira mesa, Santee, Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach. Although our core values are the same, the culture of each campus is different. Our pastors are a good fit for the communities there in. For instance, the El Cajon pastor grew up in El Cajon. He gets the culture of El Cajon. I’ve lived most of my life on the coast. I’m a surfer and I love the coast, so our campus has that vibe. RIS: What type of programs do you offer at Newbreak? PS: We have something for almost everyone. Life groups are something we’re passionate about. Life groups are small groups that meet weekly, usually at someone’s home. It’s people doing life together, and it’s very powerful. We have programs for children, youth, marriage groups, recovery ministries, outreach ministries, military ministries, college groups, and activity groups that surf, rock climb, cycle and generally do fun stuff together. RIS: What do you like to do in your spare time? PS: I’ve been a surfer most of my life. When the waves are up, I do my best to get on it. If there’s no surf, I might cycle with my wife or work out at my fitness center. I like playing golf with my boys, but lately they’ve been beating up on me. RIS: What’s your favorite break? PS: There is so much good surf in San Diego. I live about half a mile from Sunset Cliffs. There are a couple of breaks on the cliffs that I really love, but it’s probably best if I don’t say what they are. Black’s is another favorite break. RIS: Do you feel there’s some correlation between surfing and the church? PS: The church is about faith in something bigger and far more powerful than us. When I push myself over the ledge of a large wave, it requires faith. When I commit my life to God, it’s kind of like going for a big wave. No guts no glory! We all take the occasional wipe out, but God is pleased with those who have the “go for it” attitude in relationship to following him. Every time I get in the ocean it feels like I’m in God’s sanctuary; it shouts of His glory! RIS: How long have you lived in San Diego? PS: I’ve lived in the same house in OB for the last 20 years. I lived in Fallbrook for 8 years before we moved to OB, so we have lived in San Diego County for 28 years. We love San Diego! RIS: I know you have to be impartial, but where’s your favorite place to eat? PS: That’s a tough question because there are so many good places to eat in San Diego. I really like Italian and Mexican food. There is this little hole in the wall place in PB called Pasta Expresso that has great pasta. Miguel’s Mexican food in Point Loma is excellent! RIS: If you could send out one message this holiday season, what would that be? PS: This time of year we think of peace on earth and good will towards men. However, there is not a whole lot of that going around. One of the titles given to Jesus in the Bible is, prince of peace. If we don’t have peace inside of us it’s hard to bring peace to our families, marriages, friends, etc. You can’t give what you don’t have. My message this holiday season is to get to know the prince of peace and see what happens! For more info go to www.newbreak.org
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