Skate[Slate]'s own Dan Pape was in attendance for The Attack of Danger Bay 9. Here are his thoughts now that the event has been concluded.
Like every other Danger Bay Event I’ve been to I leave utterly exhausted from a thrill ride of constant fun. From the moment I arrive in the ferry line, the event vehicle is embarked by riders from all over the world excited to see the sacrilage campground where it all began. Now designated as a riders only campsite, it’s somewhat of a safe haven for riders to toss their gear and crack a beer. Some have come from the farthest ends of the earth to be a part of the very proud Coast Longboarding Family. Bricin Lyons, the soul and heart behind the event wastes no time to make riders feel at home. This level of hospitality is shared by few, people often invite you into their home but when Coast does it they do it right. Politics and competition discussion never at the dinner table. Squashing pessimism and futhering fun is the feeling in the air throughout the weekend, even right up to when you end up on the start line. 
Photo: Brianne Davies poses for the camera at carnage corner, during this years Danger Bay.
Due to the wet conditions during the elimination round, world class athletes were getting tossed or tumbling on the first corner. Lesser experienced athletes were sliding out and knocking people out quick. People like reigning champ Douglas Dalua and 4th place from Danger Bay 8, Jomar were sitting on the sidelines after 1st round. It’s tough when you want to race so bad but it’s even tougher when you fly from the other end of the world. It all happens so quick.
Photo: James Kelly assumes the fetal position after taking a spill into carnage corner.
Still the racing was fierce and hungry athletes were keen for the win. In the wet, K-Rimes charged into Carnage corner and busted out a speed check mini slide followed by butter smooth stand up. All this with Lundberg close on his tail. I also witnessed some deadly last section passes including Zen Shikaze moving on the last 100 metres during the Semis. Matt Rae did an insane outside pass threading the needle coming out of carnage corner – all this while Kyle Martin looked over his opposite shoulder to see where he was. Moves were being made, spectators' were climbing, and riders were dropping one by one.
In the end Zen Shikaze tried his best to go for the last section pass. Being the kind man that he is, he clapped to let Zak know he was coming out of carnage into the final stretch faster. Zak was man on mission and held his tuck tight and stayed his line. Zak Maytum ended up taking the win over Zen Shikaze 2nd, Andrew Chapman 3rd and runner up Matt Rae in fourth. Amazing riding by Zak all day.
Photo: The Danger Bay podium.
Once you’ve attended Bricin Lyon’s Coast Longboarding event, Attack of Danger Bay, you cannot look back. It’s an experience shared by the worlds best athletes and community contributors from all over the world. This international party is something I will not miss for as long as I can walk. Schnitzel's out Tom! It’s down to you and me.
Thanks you Coast for 9 rad years in a row. Next year is the 10th Anniversary. Whoa!
Dan Pape
