Kiteboarding

Living on the Outer Banks has it drawbacks and rewards. One prize the islands provide are the consistent winds and shallow waters of the Albermarle and Pamlico sounds. This is one of the best kite surfing locations anywhere on the east coast. I returned to the island in June to find many of my old friends from high school and college now kiting, whereas before, I was working for Kitty Hawk Kites and one of few.

Having recently taken a position with HQ Kites in Chesapeake, I'm now promoting and selling, among other things, power kites. The '09 product range includes our first water relauncable kite, the NEO.

So here I am learning how to kitesurf for my job.

Saturday was a good day. Gusty 20-30 mph side onshore winds. Mild air and moderate water temps in the 60s. Perfect conditions to be flying my 8m NEO with some friends at the new Kitty Hawk Kites store in Rodanthe. I've figured out how to stay up wind, which is a great feeling of accomplishment, as is getting up and riding for the first time. My board skills need a lot of work. And I learn a little every time I'm in the water. Recently I started popping some small jumps. Going toe side is next on the to-learn list, which is key to progressing with transitions on my turns.

A big shout out to Ted G for the loaner wetsuit.

I'll be snowkiting with this guy, Tom Bourdeau, next month on Lago Bianco and Bernina Pass in Switzerland. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGAb02x6gog

But first, I'll be at the Snow Summit held at famous Skyline Drive.


Time to pack the wetsuit and find my parka.