Exploring the World of Kai Lenny: Surfer, Innovator & Icon

Kai Lenny big wave surfer on a SUP in Hawaii on a huge wave at Maui

Few figures in surfing are as versatile; even fewer have pushed the boundaries of what can be ridden, and fewer still have achieved the highest accolades across multiple watersports disciplines. There are some amazing watermen out there, from big wave chargers incredible to crazy fit paddle racers, skilled SUP riders, and incredible surf talent. However, no one has the prowess to match this now-legendary Hawaiin. The figure in question? Enter, Kai Lenny.  This article dives into the life of the renowned big wave rider and waterman. We’ll dive into all aspects of Kai’s life, from where he grew up and his entry into surfing, how he learned so many different sports, his personal life, the many accolades he has collected, and how Kai’s life extends beyond surfing. The man has done a heck of a lot for someone only 30 years old, meaning we have a lot to get through, so let’s jump in!  Who is Kai Lenny?  Kai Lenny is a legendary Hawaiian surfer and waterman many call the best waterman to have ever walked the earth. Lenny competes at the top level and has won awards across multiple watersports disciplines, including surfing, big wave surfing, SUP’ing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddle racing. Reaching the top level of just one of these sports is tough, and most dedicate their entire lives to do so. But competing at the highest level across multiple demanding watersports that’s unheard of. And winning in all of them? Well, that’s Kai Lenny.  Kai Lenny was born to Californian parents on the island of Maui in October 1992. The sleepy Hawaiian island of Maui is incredibly wave-rich and has some of the world’s best surf and windsurf spots. His parents, originally from California, bought a property on the beach and were both avid windsurfers, so their move to the island was no coincidence. Young Kai was introduced to windsurfing at a ridiculously early age. It’s said he was introduced to windsurfing at the age of 4! He was also surfing at 6, supping at 7, and kite surfing at nine. Kai’s Impact on Big Wave Surfing  When it comes to big waves, only a handful of riders have impacted and revolutionized how big waves are ridden. Kai has been at the forefront of pushing the limits in waves of consequence, and legendary figures such as Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama are among those who paved the way and inspired young Kai to do what he does.  Today, Kai shares big wave line-ups around the world with a high-profile roster of big wave names. Guys like Koa Rothman, Nate Florence, Jamie Mitchell, and Grant Baker are some of Kai’s sparring partners in massive ways. But while all these guys constantly push the limits of how big waves are ridden, none have taken the same approach as Kai.  When you watch Kai surf big waves, and if you haven’t, I’d highly recommend checking out his YouTube channel; you can see the different lines he draws on large waves, trying to ride 30ft monstrosities as if it were a three-footer at your local beachie. It’s a bold and exciting way of riding big waves and an approach that sets Kai apart.  Even so, when the biggest swells happen around the world, whether it be Jaws, Puerto Escondido, Nazare, or Teahupoo, Kai is consistently among the few pushing the limits of what’s rideable – taking incredibly critical lines and knifing under waves that were for years considered unsurfable. Before we check out some of Kai’s extensive list of accolades and achievements, let’s take a closer look at his early life.  Is Kai Lenny the Best Big Wave Surfer?  Asking if Kai Lenny is the best big-wave surfer in the world is a tough question. While Kai’s skill in crazy waves is unquestioned, many variables are involved in big-wave surfing (and surfing in general, for that matter) that make it almost impossible to determine the “best” rider.  There is a roster of around 10-20 expert big wave surfers that could rival Kai in big wave surfing and whom Kai competed with as part of the WSL’s Big Wave World Tour. While the tour aims to provide a fair competitive platform for big-wave surfers, the unpredictable nature of these swells and the fact that they only run if a swell gets big enough make it hard to determine a true winner.  Swells of this magnitude are also susceptible to long lulls, and if you’ve ever watched a big wave contest online, you’ll understand. Big wave contests often fail to live up to expectations and don’t give enough of a window for finding the right waves. A better way to determine the best big wave surfer would be to watch videos and see who’s riding the best, biggest, heaviest (and scariest) waves on swells at multiple locations.  But contest or no contest, Kai is undoubtedly up there with the best big wave surfers in the world and has an extensive list of achievements to back it.  Kai’s Accolades & Achievements  As you’d expect from such a high-profile and established waterman, Kai’s list of achievements is long–too many to name here. However, here are some of the most notable.  2022 2nd place big wave world tour  2020 1st place in Nazare tow challenge  2018 2nd big wave world tour  2016 1st SUP World Cup  2016 2nd ISA world surf championships  2015 2nd place Molokai to Oahu paddle race  These are just a handful of Kai’s achievements, and the Hawaiian has won many more awards and accolades for his part in surfing and watersports. For a complete list of Kai’s accomplishments, check out his Red Bull athlete profile.  Kai’s Personal Life  Kai is currently married to Molly Payne, an interior designer from Maui who happens to be the sister of Dusty Payne, another high-profile surfer who has competed on the WSL Championship Tour and starred in cult surf films such as Lost Atlas. If you haven’t checked that out already, I’d suggest stopping what … Read more

Best 8 Windsurfing Sails | Reviews (DuoTone)

When you’re windsurfing, you need a board and a sail. It’s pretty fun because it doesn’t only rely on waves for movements like surfing does. With a good, strong wind, you can even perform tricks while you’re in the air. It’s one of the reasons why most surfers transition from typical surfing to windsurfing. Top 8 Best Windsurfing Sails in Review If you’re curious to know and try this water sport, you need to get an exceptional windsurfing sail. Quality is impactful in its performance, especially during strong winds. To save your time in finding the most recommended one, here are some of the best windsurfing sails you can check out. Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone Revival Windsurf Sail by MISTRAL HD 2.0 Wind Surf Sail by STX Blade Windsurf Sail by Severne Minikid Windsurf Rig 1.5M Speedster Windsurf Sail by Neilpryde Pro Rigg Complete Rigg Windsurf Windsurfing Evo Sail Racing by Neilpryde #1. Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone – Best Overall Windsurfing Sail Specifications Available Size: 7.8 meters, 8.8 meters, or 9.8 meters Weight: 13.45 pounds, 14.10 pounds, or 14.77 pounds Mast Construction: Platinum Number of Camber: 4 Number of Battens: 7 Suitable for: Intermediate to Pro Are you looking for a windsurfing sail with optimum stability and acceleration? Check out the Warp Foil Windsurf Sail by DuoTone. It features an exceptional geometry, which makes it fast. Plus, you’ll love how this feature will let you control with ease, especially during strong winds. This sail has a hinge-effect, adding more power as it accelerates. This advantage is one reason why it’s ideal for intermediate or professional windsurfers. You’ll get the best of this sail’s performance during foil races with this feature, along with a forward-oriented draft position. You’ll find it convenient to use because of the big foot-surface. It provides a vertical right position, which makes it comfier for windsurfers to stand and bend their knees. Also, this provides smoother movements as you ride it for a satisfying performance. Adding further convenience is the 2.0 batten tensioner because it makes the sail light. It even has the Mini Protector-feature, which reduces its weight for easy-controlling. The double seam technology advantage of this product makes it very durable even if you use it on strong winds. It doesn’t bend too much for better stability and performance. If you’re an aspiring racer, this windsurfing sail is very suitable. #2. Revival Windsurf Sail by MISTRAL – Best Windsurfing Sail for Beginners Specifications Available Size: 3 meters, 4.5 meters, or 5 meters Mast Construction: Fiberglass Number of Camber: None Number of Battens: 1 or 3 Suitable for: Beginner to Pro The Revival Windsurf Sail by MISTRAL is a versatile windsurfing sail because it fits all skill levels. It’s easy to handle, which makes it a recommended windsurfing sail for beginners, especially during practices. Plus, it features a lightweight advantage for overall convenience. Professional windsurfers can count on this sail’s performance because it never fails to deliver a smoother one. If you’re competing or practicing to improve your skills further, this windsurfing sail will provide fun experiences on every sail. The construction of this product impresses the customers with the premium-quality of Dacron material. It’s guaranteed durable, along with the monofilm. Also, it’s flexible enough to reach any windsurfing position for optimum performance. You can choose from three sizes, depending on which size fits your skill level. Regardless of any sail-size, each uses an adjustable top. However, these don’t carry the same number of battens. The 3-meter sail has one, and the other two have three. #3. HD2.0 Wind Surf Sail by STX – Best in Versatility Specifications Available Size: 4.5 meters, 5 meters, 5.5 meters, 6 meters, 6.5 meters, and 7 meters Mast Construction: Epoxy Number of Camber: None Number of Battens: 5 Suitable for: Beginner to Pro Most windsurfers look for a windsurfing sail that will suit any type. If you want a multi-purpose one, you should buy the HD2.0 Wind Surf Sail by STX. It’s best for various types, including freerides, windsurfer 280, and windsurf tourer. Plus, you can even attach this on inflatable boards. You’ll love its performance because it’s stress-free to downhaul. The adjustable mask fork helps in retaining excellent rotation, adding ease as you move along winds and waves. Aside from this advantage, you can count on its acceleration. This product is best for beginners to pro windsurfers because it’s hassle-free to use. You can expect a good ride as you use it for the first time because it’s lightweight. It even distributes balance well, which can help with your stance. Aside from this sail’s performance, the Dacron luff panel gives a smoother power delivery and better maneuverability. The five battens on the monofilm-part help to maintain excellent stability, especially during strong winds. #4. Blade Windsurf Sail by Severne – Best in Performance Specifications Available Size: 3 meters to 6.7 meters Number of Camber: None Number of Battens: 5 Suitable for: Intermediate and Professional Optimum performance is crucial in windsurfing, and you need the best sail you can find. One of the exceptional brands you can check out is the Blade Windsurf Sail by Severne. This sail will keep up with your game because of its eM3 Fabric Technology. It comes with a 90-degree pre-preg polyester scrim, and a reduced film-thickness, which make it lighter and easier to control. Plus, rotation is not an issue with this product since it comes with five battens. It also boasts a Spiderfiber construction. It distributes load, from seams to the body, for maximum control. It’s why windsurfers love using it because this advantage lets it glides quicker at any board. The Spiderfiber material is not the only thing that makes this sail interesting. It also uses high-quality Dacron, and X-Ply materials that reduce this sail’s weight, promoting smoother movements. You can also guarantee sturdiness because these are UV and tear-resistant. #5. Minikid Windsurf Rig 1.5M – Best Windsurfing Sail for Family-Use Specifications Available Size: 1 meter, 1.5 meters, … Read more

Is Windsurfing Dying Out?

persons surfing on sea waves during daytime

Windsurfing is a popular water sport that combines aspects of sailing and surfing. However, there has been some debate in recent years about whether windsurfing is dying out. Some argue that the sport is losing popularity due to a variety of factors, while others believe that it is still going strong. One reason why some people believe that windsurfing is dying out is that it has become less accessible in certain areas. For example, many beaches and lakes that were once popular spots for windsurfing have become more crowded with other water sports, such as jet skiing and wakeboarding. Additionally, some areas have implemented stricter regulations on windsurfing, making it more difficult for enthusiasts to practice the sport. Despite these challenges, there are still many people who are passionate about windsurfing and continue to participate in the sport. Some argue that windsurfing is simply evolving and adapting to changing times, rather than dying out completely. As such, it remains to be seen whether windsurfing will continue to be a popular water sport in the years to come. History of Windsurfing Windsurfing, also known as sailboarding, is a water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. The sport was invented in the late 1960s by an American surfer, Jim Drake, and a Canadian sailor, Hoyle Schweitzer. They combined a surfboard with a sail to create a new way to ride the waves. The first windsurfing boards were heavy and difficult to maneuver, but the sport quickly gained popularity in the 1970s. The first world championship was held in 1973, and windsurfing became an Olympic sport in 1984. During the 1980s and 1990s, windsurfing was a popular recreational activity and competitive sport around the world. However, windsurfing began to decline in popularity in the early 2000s. The rise of other water sports, such as kiteboarding and stand-up paddleboarding, has contributed to the decline of windsurfing. Additionally, changes in equipment and technology have made windsurfing more expensive and less accessible to beginners. Current State of Windsurfing Participation Rates Windsurfing has been a popular water sport for decades, but its participation rates have seen a decline in recent years. According to a study by Watersport Geek, fewer people are starting to learn windsurfing, leading to the conclusion that windsurfing is declining in popularity. However, another study by Hydropursuit suggests that windsurfing participation is not dying out and that the sport is making a comeback. While exact numbers on participation rates are hard to come by, it is clear that windsurfing is not as popular as it once was. This could be due to a number of factors, including the rise of other water sports such as kite surfing and stand-up paddleboarding, which offer similar thrills with less equipment and a shorter learning curve. Economic Impact The decline in windsurfing’s popularity has had an impact on the industry and the economy. With fewer people buying windsurfing equipment and taking lessons, businesses that rely on windsurfing have seen a decrease in revenue. This has led to the closure of some windsurfing schools and shops, particularly in areas where windsurfing was once a major draw for tourists. However, it’s worth noting that windsurfing still has a dedicated following, and there are still plenty of places around the world where windsurfing is a popular activity. In some areas, windsurfing has even seen a resurgence in popularity as new technology and equipment make the sport more accessible to beginners. Factors Contributing to Decline Emergence of Kitesurfing One major factor contributing to the decline of windsurfing is the emergence of kitesurfing. Kitesurfing offers a similar experience to windsurfing, but with the added thrill of jumping and performing tricks. Additionally, kitesurfing is often seen as more accessible and easier to learn than windsurfing, which can be a deterrent for those who are new to the sport. Cost and Accessibility Another factor contributing to the decline of windsurfing is the cost and accessibility of the sport. Compared to other water sports such as surfing or paddleboarding, windsurfing can be more expensive due to the need for specialized equipment such as sails and boards. Additionally, finding a suitable location to windsurf can be difficult, as it requires a body of water with consistent wind conditions. Furthermore, windsurfing is often seen as a more niche sport, which can make it difficult to find instructors or rental equipment in certain areas. Lack of Media Exposure Finally, the lack of media exposure for windsurfing has contributed to its decline. While windsurfing was once a popular sport in the 1980s and 1990s, it has since fallen out of the public eye. This lack of exposure has made it difficult for windsurfing to attract new participants and maintain its popularity. Additionally, the rise of social media and the internet has shifted the focus of extreme sports towards more visually appealing activities such as snowboarding and skateboarding, leaving windsurfing in the shadows. Efforts to Revive Windsurfing Innovations in Equipment One of the ways that windsurfing enthusiasts are trying to revive the sport is by developing new and innovative equipment. For example, foiling boards and sails have been introduced, which allow windsurfers to glide above the water’s surface and experience a smoother ride. Additionally, inflatable boards have become more popular, as they are easier to transport and store than traditional hard boards. Marketing and Promotion Windsurfing companies are also working to promote the sport and attract new participants. They are using social media platforms to showcase the excitement and beauty of windsurfing, and are collaborating with influencers to reach a wider audience. Some companies have also started offering beginner-friendly lessons and rental programs, in an effort to make windsurfing more accessible to the general public. Community Building Finally, windsurfing enthusiasts are building communities to support and encourage each other. They are creating online forums and groups where they can share tips and advice, and are organizing local events and competitions to bring people together. By fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion, windsurfers hope to inspire more … Read more

Onshore vs. Offshore Winds | Comparison and Guide

Onshore vs. Offshore Winds

The rule of onshore vs. offshore winds is simple – if the wind is offshore, it’s blowing from the shore towards the sea, and if it’s onshore, it’s blowing from the sea towards the coast. But what does that mean for surfing? The direction of the wind has a significant impact on the formation of breaking waves. This means that each surf break is unique and has different swell and wind directions that work better than others. However, the basic principles of local wind direction apply to every place you go. This article examines the significance of wind in creating good waves for surfers and the differences between onshore vs. offshore winds and what generates them. Onshore vs. Offshore Winds Winds flowing from land to ocean are known as offshore winds. Surfers seek these winds when deciding when and where to go surfing. The wind blows against the wave’s top, resulting in cleaner conditions and a better likelihood for the wave to form a barrel. Onshore winds, on the other hand, are winds that blow from the water to the land. On the other hand, onshore breezes have the opposite effect, reducing the time it takes for waves to break and allowing fresh waves to build. Onshore winds also aid spilling breakers. How Does Wind Affect Waves? The wind plays an essential function that most surfers are probably unaware of. Of course, windy conditions might ruin an otherwise fantastic surf session, but without the wind, there would be no waves. Wind, in fact, is what causes waves in the first place. This can happen in far-flung regions across the ocean, where strong storms and winds generate ground swells that travel enormous distances and arrive as long-period waves on the coast. This can also happen in more localized gusts, resulting in wind surges that turn into waves on our beaches. Whatever the source of the swell, when it reaches the coast, the local wind conditions play an essential part in determining whether the waves are good for surfing or not. Surfers are mainly concerned with the local winds, specifically onshore vs offshore winds, when analyzing the surf forecast. When it comes down to it, even little variations in wind speed and direction at any given surf break will significantly impact the wave quality. Deeper Look at Offshore Winds When we talk about favorable local wind conditions for surfing, we usually refer to mild offshore winds, defined as winds flowing directly out to sea from the land. A little offshore wind produces ideal “glassy” and smooth wave conditions, which any seasoned surfer craves. Offshore winds also delay the actual breaking of the wave, resulting in waves that only break at a critical point. In return, it provides longer-held and steeply shaped wave faces, making it faster and a better canvas to surf on and eventually breaking more fluidly. These winds, like everything else, are only good up to a point. Strong offshore conditions can cause waves to close out or not break at all, depending on how long they take to break (in the case of smaller waves). Furthermore, because they serve as a force against you and your surfboard, they can make it more difficult for a surfer to really get onto and catch a wave, as well as provide a constant stream of water spray in the eyes. Onshore Winds In Focus Onshore winds, in contrast to offshore winds, are often associated with less-than-ideal surfing conditions. They are broadly characterized as ocean breezes directed from the sea to the land, but they can also be thought of as winds from any direction that is not offshore. Onshore waves conjure up thoughts of choppy, sloppy waves that are difficult to surf suitably and uninviting to surfers. Onshore winds cause waves to break early and in deeper water, making them less steep, less favorable to generating down-the-line speed for a surfboard, and more challenging to ride. It can also cause waves to shatter and reform rather than maintain a surfable wall between sections of the wave. Onshore winds have the ability to create additional short-period “wind waves” that mix in with the better-quality long-period groundswell waves, resulting in unorganized and muddy surf conditions. If there’s a benefit to onshore winds, it’s that they can create waves where there would otherwise be none (due to a lack of other swell sources) and that, in today’s increasingly crowded surf areas, less-than-ideal surf conditions can lead to fewer crowds. What Causes Onshore and Offshore Winds? Local winds along the shore are mainly caused by pressure variations within the atmosphere, which cause air to shift from higher to lower pressure locations. As a result, winds of differing velocities are created, resulting in what we know as an onshore oceanic breeze and offshore land breeze. Simply put, if the air pressure is high and the sky is clear, the land warms up during the day and cools down at night. As a result, the wind will blow from the sea towards the land during the day, while it will blow from the land towards the ocean at night. This consistent local onshore and offshore wind system is observed in warm areas. It’s most noticeable on the western side of continents, where there’s a large landmass with little vegetation or a coastal desert, and where the ocean’s coastal upwelling causes cold surface currents close to the coast. The transition between land and sea is a reasonably regular and predictable pattern that you may take advantage of if you’re aware of and able to spot it. It’s because the water and the land are two separate bodies that absorb the sun’s heat differently and change the temperature at different rates. Since solid heats up and cools down faster than a liquid, the land heats up and cools down daily throughout the hot summer months. All this while the water temperature remains relatively steady, rising steadily over the length of the summer. During the day, the sun warms the … Read more

Top 6 Best Windsurfing Boards | Reviews (BIC, Zup)

best windsurfing boards

Are you looking for a fun water sport that’s not surfing or bodyboarding? Windsurfing may be the one to satisfy your need for an adrenaline rush. Playing with waves has never been more fun with windsurfing. This sport will allow you to do flips and water tricks with little to no effort. If you want to become a better windsurfer, the best thing to do is invest in the best windsurfing board to get started. You will need a windsurfing board that will match your skills. Since there are hundreds of windsurfing boards in the market, choosing the best windsurfing board is not as easy as it sounds. Hence, we’ve done our research and have gathered the top six best windsurfing boards in the market. Top 6 Best Windsurfing Boards Review Choosing the best windsurfing board can be a little tricky. There are factors that you need to consider. Part of being a good windsurfer is owning a premium-quality windsurfer board. Since there are hundreds of windsurfing boards that you can choose from the market, we’ve narrowed down your choices to the top six best windsurfing boards that are available online. Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Windsurfing Board by Aqua Marina Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard Set Windsurfing Board by Z-Ray Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Windsurfing Board by Aqua Marina Techno 293 One Design DTT Windsurfing Board by BIC Sport 2015 Magic Ride 111 FWS Windsurf Board by JP Australian DoMore All-in-One Watersports Performance Board by ZUP #1. Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board Windsurfing Board by Aqua Marina Specifications: Length: 10 feet Width: 30 inches Weight: 23.6 pounds Designed for: Every level of rider Versatile and durable, you can turn this windsurfing board into a paddle board. The sail, boom, and mass are collapsible, allowing you to easily transport the board and store it without consuming much space. Turning this windsurfing board into a paddle board will only take a few seconds. It is an ideal choice for every level of wind rider. The package includes two fin boxes for the conversion of the board from a novice board to a professional windsurfing board. This is a great investment as you can use this board as your starter windsurfing board and attach the fins once you’ve improved. It comes with straps to secure your feet while you are paddle boarding. Foot straps are a great feature to ensure that your board will not come off if you decide to take a little break. The board also features an EVA foam to provide optimal comfort. Its drop-stitch design allows you to feel comfortable while windsurfing, even if you are still a beginner. The manufacturer of this windsurfing board is best known for their premium-quality water sports equipment. This speaks of the solid PVC that the board is made of, indicating years of service. It also includes a backpack that will allow you to transport the board anywhere you want. The kit includes a set of bungee cords that will allow you to tie down the board when sailing through the sea. This board is highly recommended to riders of all ages and levels. It also makes an appealing choice to an intermediate rider who is both interested in windsurfing and paddle boarding. #2. Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard Set Windsurfing Board by Z-Ray Specifications: Length: 10 feet Width: 30 inches Weight: 43 pounds Designed for: Beginners Stability is crucial in windsurfing. Take a look at this windsurfing board by Z-Ray that you can turn into a paddle board. The kit includes a paddle for a better paddle boarding experience. For your convenience, the package includes a hand pump to help you inflate the board with ease. You will get a backpack where you can store your board after it’s been deflated. The board is in the perfect size to maintain the stability while giving you optimal control when riding both the wind and the waves. Thanks to its generous size, two people can ride this board without difficulty when paddle boarding and windsurfing. Its conversion feature is an ideal choice for watersports enthusiasts who want to try different sports. Since it is easy to use, this board is highly recommended for beginners in windsurfing. Whether you just want to relax in the water or have fun in the waves, this windsurfing board is the perfect choice for you. #3. Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Windsurfing Board by Aqua Marina Specifications: Length: 10 feet Width: 30 inches Weight: 43 pounds Designed for: Professionals This windsurfing board is not ideal for beginners, but a delight to professional windsurfers. If you want to try this board as a beginner, you may find it hard to catch the wind and the wave. But as a pro in windsurfing, this board will suit all your needs. The windsurfing board features a set of dagger fin to generate more speed when riding the waves. This board is ideal for watersports enthusiasts who are looking for an extreme adventure in the water. However, you can always take down the dagger fins if you want to relax. Or you can also convert your windsurfing board into a paddle board when threading through the waters leisurely. It also comes with a sail to improve user experience. Connecting the sail to the board is a breeze. This windsurfing board features a soft EVA deck to ensure optimal comfort when riding the waves. To make the most of your windsurfing activities, it comes with a clipper fast box system with retractable DuPont min dagger fin. The universal joint for attaching windsurfing rig offers optimal convenience. It features a double-wall drop stitch PVC that makes this windsurfing board can withstand every day abuse. The high-quality material is a good indication of the windsurfing board’s stability. This is exactly the windsurfing board that a pro windsurfer would like to have. #4. Techno 293 One Design DTT Windsurfing Board by BIC Sport Specifications: Length: 9.5 feet Width: 30 inches Weight: 26 pounds Designed for: Professionals Another product that we’re featuring from … Read more

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