Yeah, LB is a bit far from Del Mar... the Del Mar Show should be the same anyways:) I understand that problem man, live quite a drive from LA. Anyways.... what do plan on using that rod for? I'm in the process of looking for a new utility spin rod. I ended up breaking my old favorite BPS that was way old reamking it. Was using a lighter to soften up the finish some I could strip the guides off and go too friendly and inattentive with the flame;( Even if I could find a blank to replace it at Fred Halls, I be afraid of messing it up by goin' too quick. How do you like it?