Speed Flying - first time on snow

[Kenny]

I thought a review on speed flying from a kiter's prospective would be of interest. Today was the 6th time I have been out with the Speed Flyer. I have been to the point 3 times and I have briefly tried it at PowMow & Skyline. Today, I went to The Canyons. The wind was coming out of the West creating downslope wind, which is what you don't want when you are learning. Picture connecting yourself directly to the bridles of a 12M kite and you have a good idea of the setup. A downslope wind blows the wing into your skis. Fortunately, the wind was light in the morning and I had some good rides. I can see that it is going to take me awhile to become proficient, while people with paragliding experience take to it like a duck to water. Today I was fortunate enough to get some pointers from Tom Reynolds. I also saw Tom and Steve Mayer take flight. It was awe inspiring in person. You could hear their bridles sing as they went past. Speed Flying is much faster than paragliding. They absolutely book off the hill. All of the bystanders were hooting and hollering. It reminded me of the first time I saw Lou and Elliot boosting big at kitebeach in Maui.

As for me, I am looking for nice, wide open gradual slopes. I think Mt.Dell golf course might work. Skyline is probably another good choice if you have a snow mobile or skins.

Kenny