Utah Windriders Association

12:30 The Thermal was already on, so I quickly rigged and rode till 3. Planed, but less than 25% of the time (only gusts, but there were lots). The wind died off, so I took a break and decided to wait till 3:30 to pack it in. The wind came up again, but this time it was stronger. So off I went again. For about an hour it was really blowing hard. I had to go upwind to slow down and stay in control. I had a great time! Then the really weird wind came in. it went from 5mph-25mph or so. Up and down. It was catapult or dropped into the water. It was hard for me to get back downwind, total exahaustion! I also met a guy from France named Frank No seriously, and he could probably use some help. It was hard to communicate though. He said he was living in Utah in "tuscan Village"? I dont know if that is SLC or Park City or what. Anyways he mentioned that he sailed 20yrs ago in France and wanted to get back, but his gear looked to be pretty advanced and he seemed frustrated trying to up-haul on it. The crazy wind wasn’t helping. I told him to check this site. Maybe he could get on a "start" board to get a feel of things again? or catch a lesson from Josh?

Shawn, next time the wind is too strong and you don't want to be too much upwind, sheet out the sail. If you want to slow down further, get out of the back foot strap and keep an upright stance.

I hope your reassured Frank that DC isn't always like it was yesterday. That was about as gnarly as it ever gets.