Utah Windriders Association

Arpi and I started the season with a cold one. Air temp really wasn't as bad as I expected (I'm guessing low 50's) but the water temp was overbearing. Wind had a heavy west present making it side-on shore. Extremely clean and large swell. Beach is similar (to the last few years) for this time of year with the water coming to the trees but leaving the entire cove area. I was well powered on my 9m but only lasted about 20 minutes before I thought I might faint from the cold. I guess that was partially my fault with no booties, no gloves, no hood and only a 3mm suit.

Dean

Hey Dean,
Good to hear that you and Arpi are finally getting out. Us Rush boys have been out for a month. Yesterday looked windy but too cold, even for me. Sat was nice, Just a warmer wet suit and Monday, last week, was even warmer. I looked at the ULSSB launch several weeks ago and am now wondereing how you handled it. Launch in the cove's dirt , kite in the road or walk out and drift back in, how'd ya all do it. Join us at Rush, much more user friendly. Call me and I'll make you a good deal on a proper Ocean Rodeo Dry Suit and you won't get cold. Booties and gloves also help extend your time on the water.
Jon

Jon,

Me and Dean were hibarnating all winter, because we are liquid guys, but like Dean said, it vas cooooooooooooold. I lanched Dean first in the water, and after I tried to drift launch, but the wind was to strong, so it riped my 9m out of my hand. After some line fixing I went back but I dropt my kite in the turn and my strud blow up.
Someone need to show me how you do the drift lunch, in strong wind. Or it is possible to drift lunch when its cranking?
You right the dry suit is the way to go, but when you use to where a speedo, and a G string it's hard to put on all the extra clothes .

Se you on the water
Arpi

Arpi,
Sorry about the issues with your lines and kite. I've seen one person hold his kite in the air and launch the second person. But in gusty cooditions this might be a problem. I've landed someone but never launched with my kite in the air. Marty's very good at self launch on land and Kenny can drift launch maybe they have some suggestions. I would like to kite more at ULSSB but being the last one to get out is a pain. We need a dedicated kite launcher and photographer at all our sites. SWEET. What's not so sweet is thinking of you in a speedo or g string.
Jon Mzee

Arpi,

I have only had good luck with a drift launch in strong winds when launching side shore. You take a big risk of getting your lines all tangled up or stuck on something walking through the water upwind. I wouldn't try it at SSB, especially when it is cranking. Why don't you go over to Lincoln until the water level drops to a reasonable level? I have successfully drift launched there.

Dry suit is the only way to go if you are a liquid lover.

Kenny