Utah Windriders Association

LIT UP! It was intense… literally. I must try to relax a bit out there, but there is so much to tense up about. Like getting into the back strap, or landing involuntary air off a giant rogue swell, like hooking back in after bouncing out, or just going ridged with fear as I accelerate way beyond control, sheeted out! It was AWSOME! Even my toes got worked.

It was just Shawn and I at Lindon with a couple of new kiters. I was on the 6.2 and having a great time. I have to say that Utah Lake is the best on a north wind. I get so used to sailing the gusty conditions at DC and it is a pleasure to be able to sail steady wind. I arrived at 4:35 and was on the water before 5. Sailed steady until 6:30 when it seemed to back off just a little. I thought about heading across the lake to see who was on the other side but decided against it. I kept thinking that if anything happened there where not many people around to help out. This was one of my best sessions of the season! It is fun to just set everything and take off. I even tried jumping off some of the ramps. I don't think I got the fin out of the water, but I did get some good air under the board. I even pulled off a few good jibes. Even though the swell was small, I had some fun riding a few on the way back toward the shore. I am still smiling!

Shawn Henderson wrote:LIT UP! It was intense… literally. I must try to relax a bit out there, but there is so much to tense up about. Like getting into the back strap, or landing involuntary air off a giant rogue swell, like hooking back in after bouncing out, or just going ridged with fear as I accelerate way beyond control, sheeted out! It was AWSOME! Even my toes got worked.

Lindon 21sep09.jpg

Shawn, I was at the beach watching because I had to work. But I did see you and Steve having fun.

One suggestion about getting into the back strap is lay the sail way back towards the tail. By doing so, your body weight will be unweighted towards the sail and making it possible for you to get into the back strap. Also, lighten up your back foot pressure when over powered, or got involuntary air time.

I hope the air temperature get back to the upper 70's soon.