8/1-9 Hood River - Hatchery to Rufus 3.7 -6.5

[rob smith]

Great timing missing the record breaking heat wave (we know what heat in Portland does to the wind) and had wind every day. Amazing sessions from the Hatchery to Wells island on a mix of 3's and 4's and it always surprises me what a difference a little north or south has at a site (Rowena was fully powered on the south launching area when there was north to it and the previous day, it was light on the inside with more south). Even used the 6.5 slalom set with the 111 carve at the event site racing up past the bridge. There was great long swell sailing between Dougs and Rowena. Three days were "smoke on the water" days with gusts over 50, but it seemed perfect with smooth swell at Rufus. Our friends and family were also getting great air kiting. I even had to succumb to my kids taking a kiting lesson and practicing on land. I would have even ventured if the wind were not postal. We always have a great time in HR with various activities (mtn biking post canyon, hiking and good dinners at various restaurants).

Rob Smith