This was the last regatta for the 2011 season. Thank you to everyone who supported these summer event. Those that came from out of state, down state, and those locals who decided to try an Original Windsurfer for the first time or revisit it after many years. By all the warm handshakes, hugs and smiles I feel certain everyone had a good time and came away with some improved long boarding skills.
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| Jon reaching towards the finish. Photo: Dave Dalquist |
Special thanks to Dave Dalquist who has an amazing talent for capturing the essence of the moment thru his photography. Dave not only sailed in almost every regatta but also managed to take bundles of photos from the Summer Series Regattas -you can view his photos at waterholic.com
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| After the start, Bill & Ted heading towards windward mark. Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
And thank you to the Boathouse restaurant for all the wonderful lunches this summer and keeping us well nourished throughout the regatta season. The food, the staff, you spoil us!
Harness-less
We held 7 races and like the previous regattas, many decided to sail without a harness even though the wind was gusting to 15 + knots. I am not sure why most of us didn't sail with a harness. I think it may have started earlier in the season, a few regattas back when the wind was light early in the day and then began to build as we sailed into the afternoon. Some would sail to shore between races and get a harness, and some simply decided not to. I didn't think much of it at the time —to each his/her own. But as the wind got stronger there we were sailing without a harness and experiencing a feeling I can only describe as "pure". I believe I am able to feel, read and assess the wind shifts more accurately with the uninterrupted connection of my hands on rig. I don't think this is a big revelation, but it is something that has further enhanced my enjoyment of the sport.
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| Ellis on his 'Original-Original', wooden booms and all. Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
Starts & Board Handling
After the first few starts, and with some encouragement from the race committee, the sailors improved their starts drastically!
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| Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
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| Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
Don't be frightened by the word 'Regatta'. If you're a beginner or haven't been on a long board in a while or maybe never been on a long board, these are casual get togethers of sailors with all levels of ability. I hope to see you next year!
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| Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
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| Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
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| Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
The sun was out, the wind was up, and a good time was had by all...
Update on Availability of Windsurfers: It's been nice to say that I am SOLD OUT of Original Windsurfers the last few months, but I also feel bad to those that wanted to get one for this summer. Boards will be available by Nov 1st and there are new sail colors! I posted the new sail colors on FaceBook if you want to see them.
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| Photo: Dave Dalquist. |
I never tire of jibes
The light-weight rig; the square tail, sharp rails, and low stern volume of the board; and most importantly the fin — it's not over-sized so the board actually turns. These are a few of my favorite things. And whooppie is it ever fun.
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2 comments:
Fun Stuff Ted! I really will make it a point to get to one of your events next season.
2012 blog link some where?
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