Utah Windriders Association

Friends,
Its been a year since we lost our buddy.
I can' t help but think of Mitch today.
Wondering what he would tell us if he could.
Maybe enjoy life to its fullest, and fly like a bird.
He was so much fun to have around,
lighting up the crowd.

Let's all rethink safety while windriding.
Remember, you may have the abilities to do
"unsafe" moves.
but the beginner watching you may get hurt by doing the same thing.
Please be safe, and show safe.
If you can, get the newest gear you can, it's safer.

-Marty

Marty,

I think of Mitch and Derik every time I put on my helmet. How many more accidents will have to occur before every one starts wearing helmets and using good safety precautions like launching your kite towards the water? This year we have had a big influx of new riders. Some of them don't have a clue about safety. It is up to us to help educate them.

I read a posting about riders jumping the dike at Lincoln. Come on guys, what would possess you to do that? Haven't you heard about the guy who was doing the same thing for a film crew a few years ago and shattered his ankle when he didn't make it over the dike?

Check out Rick Iossi's forum under the Group forums on http://www.kiteforum.com if you want a sobering account of what can happen when things go wrong kiteboarding.

Mitch had a ton of stoke. He liked it when all hell was breaking loose, the air filled with sand and the waves on the water roiling to an angry wind. I do miss that guy!

Kenny

You guys think Mitch was a rippin' sailor!? You should have seen him Telemark ski. Spent many days running Trams with "The Rubberman." We miss you Mitch!