First Kiteboarding of the Trip - Yeehaww

     We decided to stay put in a nice anchorage in Fishing Creek, MD because of the predicted 20-25, gusting to 30 knot wind. Of course, such winds are perfect for kiteboarding although the somewhat sheltered anchorage was likely to be very gusty. In any case as low tide approached a beach suitable for rigging emerged and Sarah and Nicole joined me in the dinghy on our way to the small beach.

     I rigged an 11m kite with the idea that it would get me through the lulls and I would have to deal with the extra power during the gusts. It worked out as we thought, likely the gustiest wind I have ever sailed in and going from between 5 knots to 30 knots sometimes in a blink of an eye. It was nearly impossible to jump as you set up for a jump the wind would either die or rip you off the board. In any case it was great to get out again. Here are a few pics from the day.

 Heading out to the launch spot.

 Fully powered.

 The launchers on their way back in the dinghy.

 Some decent airtime.

 Havin' fun.

 Kiting past Raftan, anchored to windward of us.

 The sketchy landing area.

 What a great day.