Dougs, Rowena and the Wall on 3.7 6/3-6/05

[rob smith]

Generally there are mixed emotions when reading posts from elsewhere. So sorry in advance if this generates some wanting. We had a great trip in the Gorge with better than expected wind. It still surprising that I rush through the rigging process so I can get on the water quickly in anticipation. Then on the water, I realize I really needed that additional downhaul and needed to move by lines forward for the smaller sail etc. etc. There is always a contingency of utahns in the Gorge. Saw Sharon riding a swell at Dougs, Goudie on the return plane and Carl just missed us at the evening event site. The Wall had smooth large rollers without the slappy chop of some of the other launches. Dougs was great with a mix of simply high wind and some swell. Rowena had more chop but was easier to deal with than the overpowering wind out east. We enjoyed the Hood River Bike Race, Brians Pour House, First Friday and Andrews.