Peter's kiteboarding blog

Handcam shots at Hampton in another glorious sea breeze and a quinella

2012-01-26T22:36:00.003+11:00

Session 166, 26 January 2012

Scored a quinella today. I went for a nice fast bike ride with a small bunch from Wheelers Hills to Beach Road, up to Port Melbourne (coffee) then back on along North Road. I am not anywhere near race fit but it was a great ride.

Late in the afternoon I got to Hampton with a glorious sea breeze blowing. Stuart and Tarren were finishing their sessions. I had a chat to Rick then headed out, with the camera mounted on my wrist using the "handstrap mount" - double checking that it was turned on this time - and it was.

The wrist mount and wide angle lens means that you get a lot of the back of my hand in the photos which is not ideal. It needs to be either padded out further or held across the hand for this usage I think, but I did get some interesting shots.

Spotted a large dead barracuda floating in the water too.

I did one big jump where the kite whipped back and I got spanked hard on landing on my right side - very grateful I was wearing my impact vest - without it I may have broken the rib(s) again! No damage done though, and the camera stayed on.

I did a few speed runs close the marina which were nice, and some toeside riding. This was my second session wearing the waist harness again after using the seat harness to rest my ribs. There is still a slight twinge in my rib but its basically OK.

Chatted to Paul on the beach who was heading out on a Sector 60 board. He said he loves it and its the only board he uses now - in all conditions. He said he jibes it by bringing his feet together towards the back of the board - and that this is more stable than the "feet together at the front of the board" technique I have been attempting. I will look into this further.

In summary, nice weather, great stiff sea breeze, not to crowded and beach and other water users (poleys) all happy. Life is good.

Slideshow

Session Stats

Duration: 1:08 (5:10pm to 6:20pm)
Max speed 36.7 km/h
Wind speed: 20 knots

Bay city rollers - Albert Park to Williamstown and St Kilda

2012-01-25T21:53:00.000+11:00

Session 167, 25 January 2012

Another great sea breeze came in. I started kiting at about 4:30pm from Albert Park beach. There was a windsurfer out having fun. After a short tack I followed him all the way over towards Sandridge Beach. He went into the beach.

I did a couple of tacks then crossed the channel to Williamstown. There were no big ships about. I got a little bit of flat water near the Newport power station, then tacked in towards the Strand, wary of running out of wind.

The wind got a bit fickle so I scooted back across the channel, only to be greeted by a large Toll ANL Bass Strait ship departing from its dock. Rather than cut across the bow, I tacked a couple of times and crossed behind it, finding a big windshadow in its lee. I only just kept the kite flying, then got going again as the sea breeze kicked in again.

I did a very long tack to St Kilda and got into the kiddies pool. From the open bay to Bourke St! It was quite busy. After a couple of runs I headed back towards Port Melbourne in search of Stuart and Tarren. There were some big "Bay city rollers" to cruise down, and enough wind for a few jumps.

I came right into to Port Melbourne beach next to the Spirit of Tasmania and did few runs in the surf before heading back to Albert Park. I mis judged the distance from the fishermen on the pier and snagged a line. I stopped and kicked off my board to free it - with an irate fisherman yelling at me. Lesson: go TWICE as far out as you think you need to when passing fishing lines in the water.

There was a better surf off Albert Park so I did several runs there and found Stuart and Tarren having a ball too. I stopped after about 2 hours, feeling rather tired, but very happy.

The GPS log worked well, but the Contour Roam camera again malfunctioned - it was turned on in the case then apparently turned off when I went kiting - then back on when I returned. The magnetic switch seems to be very erratic. Bugger! No photos of my tour! Must double check the record light in future.

Kitesurfing off Albert Park

Stuart and the Spirit of Tasmania

Broken pulley - tangled lines

Tarren

GPS log

Session stats

Summary

Distance:	41.46 km
Time:	2:07:44
Avg Speed:	19.5 km/h
Elevation Gain:	4,291 m
Calories:	2,045 C

Details

Timing

Time:	2:07:44
Moving Time:	1:51:11
Elapsed Time:	2:07:44

Avg Speed:	19.5 km/h
Avg Moving Speed:	22.4 km/h
Max Speed:	33.3 km/h

Good session at Cape Paterson at last

2012-01-22T22:48:00.003+11:00

Session 166, 21 January 2012

Staying at Cape Paterson for a short beach holiday with my friend Simon and my daughter Chloe. The wind picked during Friday night and on Saturday morning so I decided to have a go at kitesurfing on the Number 1 beach.

Walking down to the beach, the wind is strong at the top of the dunes, but the speed drops on the beach. I eventually got my Noise 12 in the air, with some assistance launching it, and did a few runs in the surf. There wasn't quite enough wind to get going and out further. I got dragged in by a wave, the line tension dropped and the kite fell out of the sky,

The wind was also south east, which was direct onshore, and made it difficult to get out to sea.

I secured it on the beach and waited a while. Simon showed up and I launched the kite to dry it out, then noticed the wind had picked up. I got out past the surf with the extra power and then cruised up and down, eventually getting out past the Cape for a great view down towards Kilcunda. I was close to much bigger waves there and a bit wary of getting caught, so I headed back for a long run ending at the far end of Undertow Bay.

I then returned to the number 1 beach doing a few cautious jumps and some speed runs, then came in and landed my kite.

Its a great place to kite for the scenery, but it is definitely not forgiving. Most of this coast is a "no drop kite zone" due to waves, reefs and the very rocky coastline.

You also have to keep well clear of swimmers, surfers and the patrolled section of Number 1 beach, But its beautiful, uncrowded (of kites) and the water is superb.

Watching those rocks!

Jump

Landing

Entering the Twilight Zone

Looking East from #1 Beach

Cape Paterson reef

Slideshow - all photos

Map and GPS log

Session stats

Summary

Distance:	18.58 km
Time:	1:52:34
Avg Speed:	9.9 km/h
Elevation Gain:	2,899 m
Calories:	856 C

Details

Timing

Time:	1:52:34
Moving Time:	1:12:48
Elapsed Time:	1:52:34

Avg Speed:	9.9 km/h
Avg Moving Speed:	15.3 km/h
Max Speed:	36.9 km/h

Upwind from Hampton to Ricketts Point on Sector 60 raceboard

2012-01-19T00:06:00.000+11:00

Session 165, 18 January 2012
Good wind this afternoon, so I headed to Hampton for my keenly awaited for session with the Airush Sector 90. I was thinking of maybe doing a downwinder to St Kilda where Stuart was kiting after work.

I fitted the fins and headed for the water. Nobody else about, but a lot of yachts further out in the distance. A good sea breeze was on.

I got up and going without any problems on the Sector 60. It felt a bit like the surfboard (S-Quad) but with more buoyancy. It bobs around a lot more than the twin-tip like a surfboard does, but it much more stable than both.

I was immediately going upwind fast - these board are incredible for that. Twice as good as a twin tip.

It took me six tacks to get to Half Moon Bay, then three to Ricketts Point! No problems with speed, control or balance.

I rode the board flat and twisted it like I had my feet on a manhole cover. I switched feet for the direction changes, not willing to try a gibe until I got a bit familiar with the board.

It was nice to cruise past the HMS Cerberus wreck, but terrible to see it disappearing under the waves.

I went past Ricketts Point until I could see right into Beaumaris Bay. I could have kept going to Frankston. Stoked! A whole new experience, and a great one.

Turning around and heading downwind it was game on! Heaps of speed and quite stable. I was flying the kite high on the left tack to depower. Its weird to feel the wind speed drop as you go downwind even though the board speed is so high.

I tentatively tried going to toeside which felt a bit weird but was OK. There boards are smooth and not difficult to control. Super stable at speed too.

I stacked a couple of times, misjudging the speed and fanging down a roller without leaning forward enough. Tacking in past the Cerberus I got yanked over toeside. Shit! Board getting washed toward the wreck. But it surfed downwind on the swell and I body dragged to it without difficulty and cleared off.

Back at Hampton, it what seemed like no time at all, I did a couple of speed runs then cranked upwind and into the flat water behind the breakwater. About 10 kites were out, and a couple of windsurfers.

I tried a few jibes too and got around onto toeside, which felt a bit weird, and once reversed my feet but still fell in. Its hard, but the extra buoyancy of this board will help I think.

I was still tired after Sunday's epic bay crossing, so I came in after about 2 hours.

The Airush Sector 60 is fantastic! I can see lots of potential for varied sessions and some great tours - both upwind and downwind.

Session stats

Summary

Distance:	34.35 km
Time:	2:11:03
Avg Speed:	15.7 km/h
Elevation Gain:	10,075 m
Calories:	1,516 C

Details

Timing

Time:	2:11:03
Moving Time:	1:39:51
Elapsed Time:	2:11:03

Avg Speed:	15.7 km/h
Avg Moving Speed:	20.6 km/h
Max Speed:	149.6 km/h

Notes

Actual max speed 44.9 (149.6 is anomaly)
Distance 34.35 km

First session at Frankson in a hot northerly

2012-01-17T22:11:00.001+11:00

Session 164, 17 January 2012

Its taken about 4 years but I finally scored a session at Frankston. So often the wind speed reads lower there (maybe its partly where the anemometer is located). Hot strong northerlies blew all day, so later in the afternoon I headed to Frankston. Franz gave me the tip to go to Gould St. I was lucky to score a park - there were quite a few people at the beach.

There was one kite out further towards the pier and enough wind. Game on!

I rigged up, chatting to a lady very interested in learning kitesurfing, then attempted to launch. The kite flipped on its trailing edge so I did a hot launch which worked well. The beach was not too crowded where I launched so I had plenty of room.

I didn't try my new Airush Sector 60 board as I figured one new factor (location) was enough, and a northerly might not be ideal for its first outing.

The wind was good. I was staying upwind and getting some good speed in what felt like about 16 - 18 knots. Bay Winds showed Frankston with 12 knots gusting to 15 over this period, which I think was a bit lower than the actual wind. The wind was consistent - not gusty like northerlies often are at Brighton, and it was side onshore.

Nice clean water. I kept clear of the few jet skis that were about and they kept away from me. One chap came off and was in the water. I offered some assistance but he was just getting sand out of his shoes.

I was feeling a bit tired in the legs so a short session late in the afternoon was ideal. I did a few good jumps when I was powered up too.

The Contour Roam camera was turned on this time - I double checked the record light was on - but it kept taking photos after I turned it off on the beach! Not sure what is going on there.

Look! no poo stance!

Session stats

Summary

Distance:	20.90 km
Time:	1:11:24
Avg Speed:	17.6 km/h
Elevation Gain:	2,617 m
Calories:	1,141 C

Details

Timing

Time:	1:11:24
Moving Time:	54:46
Elapsed Time:	1:11:24

Avg Speed:	17.6 km/h
Avg Moving Speed:	22.9 km/h
Max Speed:	43.4 km/h

Airush Sector 60 race board unboxed

2012-01-16T22:02:00.000+11:00

After some consideration, research and some advice from Ivan Salmon, I ordered an Airush Sector 60 V2 race board (2012 model) from The Zu Boardsports. I have just picked it up.

The Sector 60 is claimed to handles more easily than a specialised race board, and has great upwind and light wind characteristics.

Ivan removing the extensive packaging

The first step was to remove the extensive packaging. The board would be unlikely to get damaged during shipping

First sight of the board, what a beauty!

The first sight of the board is impressive. Clean lines, nice finish, solid yet not too heavy.

Awaiting straps

The front view reveals as carefully shaped nose and not too aggressive rails

Large fins for the front and smaller ones for the rear

The larger fins (24cm) are for the front, while the smaller ones (22cm) are for the rear. Each fin has its own slot as they are angled out.

4 fins and three footstraps

The sum total of parts is 4 fins (with screws and washers) and three footstraps (with screws and plates)

Positioning the screw attachments and plate for the footstraps

There are three rows of screw holes in the end of each foot straps. Ivan recommended going for the middle row.

Footstraps laid out

Holes for rear footstrap

Carefully screwing in the self tapping screws.

The screws for the footstraps are self-tapping. Ivan was careful to get the screw going vertically as it cuts its own thread. They can be removed and rescrewed. Care is required to avoid over tightening them and stripping the thread (which can be repaired with a screw insert if this happens).

Footstraps on

Starting with the rear footstrap forward. It can be moved further rear once the rider is experienced with the board.

Bottom of board

The bottom of the board looks built for speed.

Fins in position

The big fins provide the great upwind capability.

And it fits in the rear of my X-Trail - bonus!

And is surprise bonus - the board fits in the rear of my X-Trail.

Some further tips from Ivan:

Use a kite 1 size smaller than you would for a twin tip or surfboard
Be careful to keep the kite in the sky in light winds when turning. The board can function in 10 knots or less, but when you stop, the apparent wind reduces and your kite could fall into the water. Keep it flying.
Don't edge the board. Ride it flat and steer by "twisting" your feet.
Be careful of the sharp fins when doing a water start. Approach the board with your feet on the rail to avoid getting cut by the fins. They are sharp.

Some additional factors I considered for getting the Airush Sector 90 are:

Good for downwinders - you can keep going when the wind drops and you can paddle the board if the wind dies completely stops.
Speed. More speed!
Upwind tours - going upwind then back downwind to the same place - less logistics than pure downwinders
I might have a go at course racing
I will be able to kite on lighter wind days of 8-14 knots (hopefully)

I am really looking forward to going kitesurfing on this board . . .

Port Phillip Bay crossing Hampton to Altona and return

2012-01-16T00:15:00.002+11:00

Session 163, 15 January 2012
We finally did it! After a couple of years speculating today was the day we made it across the bay!

We kited and Hampton for a while in a good consistent southerly. We got some nice runs up to and behind the breakwater. Several sail and motor boats were coming into the marina so some caution was in order.

I took off past a large launch just dowwind of it. It then sped up and past me, even though I was hooting. I slipped into its wake, which was quite smooth and gave chase. I was gaining on the boat for a while and cloced 48km/h before pulling off its wake.

I then did a run out to have a look past Green Point. Stuart was with me. We kept going. And going.

A container ship headed down the shipping channel towards Port Melbourne, some distance away. We got over the wake easily, then crossed the channel well behind the ship. It was fast and not too tiring on the tack. Tarren came up behind and joined us. We kept going.

Not much happening out there other than some big bay swells. Then we got close to some land, uncertain about where we would make landfall. We came to shore south of Altona Beach with kites visible there in the distance. It was great to make it.

After a short rest we headed back. My left thigh was burning almost straight away so I was wondering if I would make it. I stretched the legs out and tried to keep them straight, which fixed the problem. It was a long way back to the channel but the wind kept blowing. The Spirit of Tasmania headed out down the channel well in front of us.

I got into a zone and just kept going. As fatigue set in I rested my arms and hands, moved me feet around and stretched my legs. The Red Bluff was visible as a landmark, and the Sandringham Marina next to it so we headed there. We came right back in to Hampton, tired but ecstatic. An epic journey was over.

Stats

Summary

Distance:	52.84 km
Time:	2:24:47
Avg Speed:	21.9 km/h
Elevation Gain:	3,661 m
Calories:	2,262 C

Details

Timing

Time:	2:24:47
Moving Time:	2:09:12
Elapsed Time:	2:24:47

Avg Speed:	21.9 km/h
Avg Moving Speed:	24.5 km/h
Max Speed:	86.3 km/h

Note the max speed is wrong - the fastest I have on the time log is 43.3 km/h - most likely when I was chasing the motor launch.

The crossing distance is around 17km as the crow flies.

The wind was around 20 knots and a southerly. We were lucky with the wind window - it dropped soon after we got back.

From the track log, I estimate the time from Hampton to Altona was 40 minutes, the return trip took 43. It is remarkable how close the out and back tracks are. Its a long way to go on one tack, but it was certainly worth it.

A cool sea breeze at Mentone

2012-01-15T22:09:00.000+11:00

Session 162, 14 January 2012

Back from a week up at Charlottes Pass walking on the Main Range and enjoying some summer snow!

Stuart, Tarren and I met at Mentone for a late afternoon kiting session. Once we got out a bit the wind was good. We did several long runs along the beach towards Morabbin and back to the Beaumaris Motor Yacht Squadron.

It was quite chilly in the water and out of it, but it was great to get out again and carve some swells. There were not many others about.

I got some shots with the Contour Roam in the linemount setup which worked well.

After 1.5 hours I was quite tired so I came in, and very soon after the wind dropped so my timing was good. Stuart, Jeremy and I had a beer at The Beaumaris (hotel) before heading home which was a nice way to end the day. There was a helicopter hovering just offshore apparently looking for someone of something, but we couldn't see what.

The GPS log showed 27km and a maximum speed of 38.3 km/h, so it was a good long and fast session. Wonderful!

Slideshow

Session stats

Distance:	27.45 km
Time:	1:33:52
Avg Speed:	17.6 km/h
Elevation Gain:	884 m
Calories:	1,140 C

Details

Timing

Time:	1:33:52
Moving Time:	1:16:01
Elapsed Time:	1:33:52

Avg Speed:	17.6 km/h
Avg Moving Speed:	21.7 km/h
Max Speed:	38.3 km/h

Kite: Noise 12m
Board: Naish Haize

Short but sweet at St Kilda

2012-01-06T23:05:00.000+11:00

Session 161, 6 January 2012

I got caught up with chores during the afternoon so I made it down to the beach quite late, and was on the water at St Kilda at about 6pm. There was a good south easterly sea breeze so I headed out past the breakwater, picking my way through the learners with their kites parked at 12 o'clock.

Being late in the day, it was not too crowded. I got a couple of good runs in out from the breakwater, but there wasn't enough wind to jump. Then the wind dropped so I headed to the beach and walked back. It picked up a bit while I waited, so I headed out again and was the only one out apart from the beginners.

After a couple of more good runs I headed back in and walked back. Short but sweet

Rinsed at Rye Back Beach

2012-01-04T22:53:00.002+11:00

Session 160, 4 January 2012

Down on the Mornington Pennisula, the hot weather was chased away by a raging southerly. It blew hard at over 30 knots most of the morning and backed off a bit during the afternoon.

Stuart and I headed down to the ocean (back) beaches for a look. The wind looked good at Rye Back Beach so we decided to give it a go. Stuart took his 7 out while I used my 10. The wind was not quite so strong on the water; we were both a bit underpowered.

Rinsed!

The large surf was pushing us in to shore to. I got a couple of tacks in then got rinsed by a big wave. The water pushing you in to shore works to drop the wind speed, then my kite was down, so I swam in.

We then changed our kites to the Noise 12m (me) and Switchblade 10m (Stuart). It was good to have some more power to crank over the large broken waves. Conditions were very unpredictable though. There were small nasty reefs lurking under the waves and some sharp rocks studding the shoreline in places. The water was often chopped and variable.

I lost my board in a stack and saw it heading out in a rip, so I landed my kite and headed out to get it. Back on the water I got rinsed again and dropped the kite for another swim. Conditions were really tricky. Stuart helped get my kite on the beach, then untangle my lines. I was lucky to not get it shredded on the sharp rocks.

It was just as well I had my camera on the linemount clipped with a carabiner to the line - it was the only thing keeping it secured after the kite was dunked.

Overall it was a pleasant if humbling session. Kiting in the surf certainly is more difficult. Neither of us made it out the back.

Slideshow

2011 kitesurfing in summary and things to do in 2012

2012-01-02T07:34:00.003+11:00

2011 was a great year for kitesurfing. I logged 40 sessions. It would have been nice to log 40 more though!

I consolidated my skills and feel confident in most wind conditions. I did my first backroll and boosted my highest jump.

Some highlights have been writing the Kitesurfing Handbook, our trips to Inverloch, some nice downwinder tours and some surprisingly good sessions at Brighton over winter.

My list for 2012:

my surf riding has slipped a bit, I will aim to get in more surf sessions

Gybe a board

I intend to try the Sector 60 race board for some downwinders

I am still contemplating the first powered kiteloop. Watching some videos of people breaking ribs smacking into the water attempting kiteloops is not too inspiring.

Another trip to Port Douglas in the winter would be great too.

My daughter Chloe tells me I want to kitesurf across Bass Straight. I would like to, but its a serious undertaking.

I am keen to finally get a session at Cape Patterson - and possibly do the downwinder from there to Inverloch.

I am also keen to tackle some big downwinders along the 90 mile beach.

All the best for the New Year and your 2012 kitesurfing.

Downwinder from Hampton to Port Melbourne, nice!

2011-12-28T22:46:00.002+11:00

Session 159, Wednesday 28 December 2011

The sea breezes have finally arrived. After a quiet morning, a nice 18 knot southerly came in during the afternoon. I headed to Hampton and decided on arrival to do a downwinder. I rigged up the Noise 12m and setup my GPS, kitecam and linemount video. Lots of gear to record the trip! I took my waterproof backpack with foam sandals, the kite bag, boardshorts and rash vest, and some money for the trip home.

I did a run out to have a look around, came back to the breakwater, then headed off downwind. I cruised out past Green Point, then came in to the reefs, then headed down to Brighton. There were some nice bay swells to cruise down, and I rode toeside a bit to rest my legs.

I did a couple of tacks and Brighton among about 10 kiters, then headed out offshore past a yacht that was motoring back to Brighton Marina. I tacked back towards the marina breakwater then back out towards Elwood.

There were a couple of kiters and windsurfers at Elwood. I came in close the beach, then did a small jump. Unfortunately, my kite did a Hindenburg as I swung under it and hit the water. It inverted as I tried to relaunch it while I drifted slowly to shore. Then I got lucky and relaunched it about 100m from the beach - persistence sometimes pays off!

The wind had dropped a little, or there is a wind shadow at Elwood, but there was enough for me to head out past St Kilda breakwater. The water was getting noticeably dirtier (brown) as I headed up the bay. I was contemplating heading in to St Kilda, but the few kites in the air were going nowhere, so I headed towards Port Melbourne.

The wind dropped further and I had to work the kite hard to keep moving. About 500m of the beach it fizzed out to 10 knots, so I did figure 8s to get into the beach. I ditched the kite just offshore then swam in and grabbed it. I packed up my gear on the nice grass next to Port Melbourne Lifesaving Club, had a coffee and ice cream at the shop there, then walked to get the tram at Port Melbourne.

I returned to Hampton by tram to Southern Cross, train to Richmond, change for Sandringham line, train to Hampton, then a short walk back to the beach. I chatted to an elderly man who was interested in the gear, and the trip. He was returning from the Melbourne Cricket Club having just watched the Boxing Day test of Australia vs India. His grandsons kite too (Tribe Carew) so he as quite interested in kitesurfing.

This really is a great downwind tour.

Stuart and Tarren were on the beach back at Hampton. Stuart had just finished a session - the wind having picked up again, and Tarren headed out for some more.

The switch on the Contour Roam waterproof housing seems to be difficult to turn off. I thought I turned it off at the destination, yet in continued to record in my bag when returning.

Carving the bay swell

Port Phillip Bay vista

Green Point

Brighton Beach

Brighton Marina in the distance

Photo slideshow

Video

GPS log

Session stats

Time: 1:37:27
Moving Time: 1:15:37
Avg Moving Speed: 21.4 km/h
Max Speed: 40.5 km/h
Distance: 26.99 km

A brisk easterly at Mentone

2011-12-21T20:50:00.002+11:00

Session 158, Wednesday 21 December 2011

A 15 knot south easterly was blowing later in the afternoon so Stuart and I headed to Mentone. Once on the water the wind picked up so a brisk 20-25 knots which was great fun.

I did some "Bondi Tram" runs - bar right out and still screeching along at 40km/h! I depowered the Noise 12m a few times, using the "leash over the depower nob" trick.

The water was clean, the sun was shining and the wind was good. I popped a couple of nice high jumps, but lost my board landing one of them. Upwind body dragging didn't get me far upwind - I think I should have powered up the kite fully - but Stuart came by and fetched my board.

There were only about 4 kites out, and two windsurfers. I was stationary in the water well offshore resetting my depower when one kamikaze windsurfer came straight at me with speed. It was a bit un-nerving watching this large board heading straight for me. He eventually passed me just upwind, which mean a big gust could have blown him onto me. His buddy did the right thing and passed me downwind at a safe distance.

Later, Stuart said he had a close encounter when the same windsurfer came up very close behind him. Stuart took evasive action to keep away from him. There is plenty of room out there and no need to go past someone else so fast and so close. If this windsurfer is reading this, back off please!

We stopped at about 6pm, with the wind getting even stronger. Nice to have a good stiff sea breeze, even if it was a bit unpredictable.

I stuffed up the control on my Contour Roam video so no footage - there is only one switch but it looks like I need to practice using it.

17km and 43km/h max speed. Overall a great session.

Session stats

Distance: 17.68 km
Time: 1:13:01
Avg Speed: 14.5 km/h
Elevation Gain: 3,269 m
Moving Time: 48:04
Avg Speed: 14.5 km/h
Avg Moving Speed: 22.1 km/h
Max Speed: 43.0 km/h

Crane jump - spectacular but not recommended

2011-12-18T23:55:00.000+11:00

An interesting video, but I have to say I don't recommend this practice! Spectacular though, all the same.

Christmas greetings and safe kiting

2011-12-18T18:30:00.002+11:00

In the lead up to the "silly season" I wish a merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.

Some tips for kitesurfing over the summer holidays here in Australia (via the AKSA) are:

Check your gear thoroughly before heading out, especially it hasn’t been used for a few months
Avoid crowded beaches, there will be a lot more people using the beach and water
Do not kite after drinking, save it till afterwards
Keep clear of flagged swim zones, they extend 500m from shore
Keep clear of no boating zones - designated by yellow buoys.

Its vitally important that we do everything we can to keep kitesurfing safe for ourselves and for others.

In previous years, a couple of incidents resulted in injuries to non kiters, we must avoid anything like that happening again. Specifically:

Avoid flying your kite on the beach near other beach users, they do not understand kites and may walk into your kite or lines, or grab hold of them.
When doing downwinders or kiting in the surf zone pay attention to any surfers or swimmers, they may be under the surface or behind whitewash and not visible initially.
It is best to either avoid known swimming/surfing spots, or do a slow approach to carefully check if anyone is in the water before entering the surf zone at each beach you pass.

In Western Australia and Victoria there have been recent incidents involved a loose kite flying into power lines and cutting off power to 4000 homes for 8 hrs. While these kites may not have belonged to an AKSA member, the local community does not make that distinction and we could all be banned from these locations.

It was very lucky that no one else was injured during these incidents, so remember to:

land your kite in a safe location
secure your kite once landed
use a kite leash that disarms the kite so it does not fly away.

Distance is the best insurance, if you don’t get close to other beach/water users or dangerous objects then they can’t hurt you or you hurt them.

If you have not yet renewed your membership with your local kitesurfing association, remember that you have to be a paid up to be covered by the their public liability insurance policy

Have a safe Christmas with lots of great wind and time on the water.

External links

Safety and rules - Kitesurfing Handbook
Kite rips down power lines - Kitesurfing - Seabreeze Forums

Kitesurfing at Port Melbourne next to the Spirit of Tasmania

2011-12-15T21:47:00.003+11:00

Session 158, Thursday 15 December 2011

A late sea breeze sprang up late in the afternoon so I met Stuart at Port Melbourne for a really nice kitesurfing session. Stuart was already on the water, so I rigged up my Noise 12m kite without delay, mounted my new Contour Roam video camera with the Kitehero Line Mount and headed out.

After a few tacks we headed along offshore to the east. There was quite a nice small bay surf rolling in. It was a glorious day with good sunshine and not too hot.

Once again, it was really nice to be on the water. I did a few small jumps, but the wind backed off a bit so jumping became difficult.

Its nice cruising towards the large Spirit of Tasmania ferry that was loading cars and getting ready to depart. It sailed away when were out of the water and loading the car.

The Contour Roam camera was a great success, it takes wonderful footage with its wide angle lens.

Session log
6:15pm to 7:15pm , 1 hour

What do you think about a race board?

2011-12-12T22:17:00.003+11:00

I am considering buying a race board. I am going to try one first at The Zu boardsports. They have an Airush Sector 60 on demo.

Airush Sector 60

Naish Venturi race board

Here is a video of one in action:

Some advantages I see are:

great for downwinders - long ones
good for low wind days - lots of bouyancy.
another variation to try out
handy if I ever want to have a go at course racing
good for speed runs - if I ever get to go out at Sandy Point.

Some disadvantages I see:

long fins - no good for shallow water
hard to turn/tack - gybe turn required?
an extra board to squeeze into the shed
not so easy to transport - long board and long fins

Have you tried one out? Any comments or suggestions?

On the water again at Hampton, woo hoo!

2011-12-11T15:07:00.001+11:00

Session 157, Sunday 11 December 2011
Out on the water again, at last. Stuart and I bagged a great session at Hampton first thing in the morning. My rib was fine. A few twinges, but it really didn't bother me. This breaks my "five week drought" of kitesurfing.

I did a few small jumps but basically took it easy, just enjoying cruising around in the 1m bay swell.

I headed upwind to the marina in search of some flat water, then headed downwind and followed Stuart out past Green Point. I was really enjoying skipping over the waves with a small boost - like a flying fish!

I then setlled in for some nice "surf action" close to shore between the two rock groynes. There were several others out by then, mostly on kiting on surfboards.

Stuart eventually made it back upwind on his 7m while I was "living large" in the waves. My Cabin Fever is now cured - for now at least.

GPS Log

Stats

Location: Hampton Beach, Melbourne
Kite: Switchblade 10m
Wind: 23 knots, S
Time: 08:50 to 9:00

Max speed: 39.2 km/h

Distance: 18.05 km

The tragic death of two sea kayakers on Port Phillip Bay

2011-12-03T21:55:00.002+11:00

Two sea kayakers headed out for a fishing trip from Sandringham early on Tuesday 29 November 2011. They were reported missing that evening.

Unfortunately, they were both found dead in the water the following day, with one kayak and body washed up near the Patterson River and the other located in the water just offshore from Seaford. Both were reported to be wearing life jackets.

Police investigating sea kayak at Seaford. Source: The Age

Sea kayak on the beach at Seaford. Source: Trevor Pinder, Heraldsun

The kayaks were "sit on" craft that were setup for fishing and had small electric motors. You can see a paddle still attached to one craft in the photos, so they were equipped with a double-bladed kayak paddle too.

Looking at the wind graph for the day, strong northerlies came in during the morning, which may have blown them offshore and into difficulty.

Around 2pm the wind changed to a westerly, also around 25 knots, which would have carried them across to where they were eventually found.

There will be Coroner's inquest into this, but it may take a year or so to deliver findings.

This tragedy highlights the need for caution on Port Phillip Bay with any water activity.

It is well worth seeking local advice before heading out on an adventure, whether it be sailing, kitesurfing, fishing or SUPing. Check the weather forecast and if in doubt, don't go out.
Consider carrying a Personal Locator Beacon.
Tell someone your trip intentions before you go.
Wear a wetsuit or equivalent clothing to keep you warm if you end up spending time in the water. You can get "hydroskin" and other specialist clothing for kayaking that allows good movement but can still keep you warm if immersed.

External links

Bodies wash up in bay as kayakers vanish, The Age
Bodies of two men reported missing on kayak fishing trip found, The Australian
Two men drown after kayak trip on Port Phillip Bay, Herald Sun
Kayaker shared farewell words of love to fiance before death, Herald Sun
Tragic kayakers mates to the end, Herald Sun

Brighton quiet and Hampton crowded

2011-11-18T14:26:00.000+11:00

I called down bayside last Monday after returning from Sandy Point. A good westerly was blowing so I checked out the action at Brighton then Hampton. I'm still nursing a cracked rib so no kiting for me, which is very frustrating. Its healing though.

There were two guys out at Brighton on twin tip boards have a good time.

Hampton was crowded by comparison - about a dozen kiters on surfboards enjoying the bay swell whipped up by the westerley.

Here is the full album

Sandy Point weekend with some good wind

2011-11-17T11:29:00.005+11:00

Four of us planned a kitesurfing and windsurfing weekend at Sandy Point from 12-14 November. Unfortunately I was bowled over by my brother's dog the week before our trip and cracked a rib on a veranda rail. Ouch, its very painful. My GP told me there were very few things he could state with absolute certainty in medicine, but he could say there was definitely no way I would be kitesurfing on this trip.

I left my kitesurfing gear at home in case I was tempted to go out and took my camera and fishing gear. I took a lot of photos, but caught no fish.

Saturday - some wind at the inlet and on the surf beach

Stuart (kitesurfing) and Grant and Stu (windsurfing) had some nice runs in the inlet in light wind. There was just enough wind to get going and it was nice and sunny.

These immature pacific gulls were resting as we left the inlet.

Stuart headed out in the surf at Waratah Bay in just enough wind. The beach is very wide so launching is easy and the surf very predictable. It would be great in 20+ knots.

Sunday - down to Walkerville and Venus Bay

There was no wind on Sunday so we drove to Walkerville for a look. We headed down to Bear Gully where Grant and Stu surfed a small reef break. Stuart and I walked along the wild coastline and eyed off the possibility of a great downwinder back to Sandy Point. You would need a southerly and the distance is about 17km. You could keep going down towards Wilsons Prom too!

Monday - more wind at the inlet
There was more wind (just enough) on Monday so Stuart and Grant got another session in at Shallow Inlet.

I detoured via Corner Inlet and Port Franklin on the way home. Its a curious place - similar in many ways to Western Port - but very limited potential for kitesurfing.

Map

View Waratah Bay kitesurfing in a larger map

Video - kitesurfing in Shallow Inlet

Sail Melbourne Kiteboarding Championships on at Hampton

2011-11-11T11:19:00.001+11:00

The Sail Melbourne Kiteboarding Championships are being held at Hampton Beach from 10-12 November as part of the ISAF Sailing World Cup Carnival. The event is presented by Cabrinha and KBV.

Kiteboarding is being considered as a demonstration sport in the in the 2016 Olympic games in Rio De Janeiro.

Competitors in this internationally recognised sailing competition may have a chance to participate at the Olympic games!

KBV/AKSA members have the opportunity to experience the following four competitions, including two proposed Olympic Kiting classes, in an official competition format:

Course Racing (proposed Olympic class)upwind-downwind course racing
Freestyle expression session with elimination finals, specific format depends on number of competitors in each division and weather forecast -
Kite-X (proposed Olympic class) slalom racing with obstacles, running elimination heats and finals -
Big Air expression session, if conditions permit

Winners will receive a recognised medal from Sail Melbourne. Plus Cabrinha and SHQ will provide prizes to the winners on the day.

The event has been created to cater for all levels of kiteboarding ability.

The Kiting portion of the Sail Melbourne World Cup week will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10-12th November, at Hampton Beach.

Links

Competitors information, Sail Melbourne
Olympic hopefuls take to the bay, The Age
Sail Melbourne Kiteboarding Competition, KBV

Paddle from Port Melbourne to Williamstown

2011-11-03T23:43:00.001+11:00

There was no wind today so I decided to go for a paddle in my sea kayak from Port Melbourne across Hobsons Bay to Williamstown to visit the Police Search and Rescue duty crew.

It was a nice tour and quite scenic. No big ships in the channel to worry about either.

Tour to Green point from Hampton Beach and return

2011-11-02T21:28:00.000+11:00

Session 156, Wednesday 2 November 2011
Back in Melbourne after our epic 4 day trip to Inverloch, Stuart messaged me for a kite in the morning. We headed out at Hampton in a light wind at about 10:50, with nobody else around. The wind backed off so we headed out and downwind to Green Point. It was nice to go for a short tour. The offshore squalls were not bringing much wind with them.

When the wind dropped further, I started heading in to the beach at Brighton, but then it picked up. We were able to get back upwind past Green Point, Middle Brighton and back to Hampton. The wind konked out again just as we returned.

It was a nice not-too-strenuous session where upwind technique was really all that mattered. I headed to the Yarra for a coffee and muffin, followed by a brief paddle in my sea kayak (the last photo). No kitesurfing on the Yarra (yet)!

That makes 4 days of kitesurfing over the last 5 days. Bliss . . .

GPS Log

Stats
Location: Hampton Beach, Melbourne
Kite: Noise 12m
Wind: 15 knots, SW
Time: 9:50 to 10:50
Board: Naish Haze

Cruising the inlet on the surfboard at Inverloch

2011-10-31T21:25:00.001+11:00

Session 155, Monday 31 October 2011

Not much wind about today, but a sea breeze came in late afternoon. I drove to the inlet (sailing club) to check it out. A couple of kiters were cruising further downwind and a couple more arrived and setup.

The wind was light - around 15 knots - but I decided there was enough to power the 12m Noise and my surfboard.

It was nice to do some runs on the surfboard getting a feel for it. The fore and aft balancing is more challenging, especially with the rear foot out of the footstrap. I switch my feet for the left tack as this is my rusty side for toeside riding. I tried gybing for the right tack and almost got it once. Its certainly tricky.

I was able to ride toeside for one tack too when the wind picked up a bit. Stuart was able to just stay upwind as well. The tide was on the way out so some sandbars emerged as we kited.

I got a couple of nice speed runs in when the wind picked up briefly, which was good fun.

Stats
Location: Inverloch surf beach
Kite: Noise 12m
Wind: 15+ knots, S
Time: 5:00 to 6:00
Board: Cabrinha S-quad

In the surf at Inverloch

2011-10-30T20:28:00.001+11:00

Session 154, Sunday 30 October 2011

There were some good sized waves and good wind at the surf beach later in the afternoon so the three amigos headed out for another session. I decided to take the surf board, which I haven't used for quite a while.

The wind was a consistent 20+ knots so I had plenty of power. Getting out was not too diffcult with the extra flotation of the directional board. It bobs around like a cork in comparison to the twin-tip board.

I did some longish tacks and stopped to switch my feet. I caught a few nice waves coming back in, and made my way upwind along the beach.

I decided to practice toeside riding to get back, which was OK. Its a lot harder to get out over waves when riding toeside though.

I got hit by a set of big waves heading out later in the session, but was able to keep my kite flying and get dragged through them. The footstraps are definately an advantage for my skill level. I felt like a beginner again.

Its nice to try something different though - there is only so much fanging on flat water you can do without getting a bit bored.

Stats

Location: Inverloch surf beach
Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 20+ knots, S
Time: 5:00 to 6:00
Board: Cabrinha S-quad

Inverloch surf beach to inlet downwinder - woo hoo!

2011-10-30T14:49:00.005+11:00

Session 153, Sunday 30 October 2011

We nailed it. Some good wind blowing around midday so we rigged up at the surf beach and started kiting. It was great fun in the surf with some good waves about. After we all got settled we headed for the inlet across the mouth. Tarren stopped for a while with his kite above his head. We found out later that he unscrewed a loose fin from his board and put it in his pocket before continuing.

We headed for the point at the other side then back. We walked across a sandbar to get some flatter water. I clocked a good maximum - 46.9 km/h - on one of my fast runs.

It was more congested in the inlet but still good going. I was happy to make it to the sailing club rather tired but very satisfied. The consensus among myself, Stuart and Tarren was that the surf was the best fun.

Slideshow

Stats

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 20+ knots, S
Location: Inverloch, surf beach
Time: `12:15 to 1:45
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

GPS Log

Photos

A sweet southerly in the surf at Inverloch

2011-10-30T09:45:00.000+11:00

Session 152 Saturday 29 October 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 20+ knots, S
Location: Inverloch, surf beach
Time: 5:15 to 6:15
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

We are down at Inverloch for a few days kiting. There was no wind when we arrived early in the afternoon so we spent some time on the beach with the kids, and I caught a few small waves on by goat boat (wave ski).

Later in the afternoon, Stu and Tarren were flying an Ozone Imp 2m trainer kite on the beach. I noticed them pack and leave as the breeze strengthened. Game on.

We dashed back to the nearby house, grabbed our gear and scooted back to the beach. We got on the water without delay and enjoyed an hour of a good southerly 15 to 20 knots. The water is lovely and clean and the scenery was superb. Uncrowded too - we had the place to ourselves and nearly all the beach goers had departed due to the wind.

The wind had a few "holes in it" so after a few longish offshore winds we kept a bit closer to the shore. Somebody flicked a switch at 6:15 and the wind stopped so we came in, very happy.

Good wind at Mentone and my biggest jump to date

2011-10-25T22:49:00.001+11:00

Session 151 Tuesday 25 October 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 20+ knots, SE
Location: Mentone
Time: 4:45 to 5:15
Board: Naish Haize twin tip
Distance: 23.56km

Great conditions and Mentone today. A strong and consistent South Easterly created a small swell. I did some very big/high jumps launching off steep waves and boosting up. Landed all of them nicely too, apart from one big pendulum towards the end of the day.

A strong gust plucked my skyward when I launched of a steep wave taking me to great heights (over 5 metres at least).

Its a bit weird on a big jump. Everything goes quiet as you go downwind and the water looks a long way away. The Switchblade 10s flight is very predictable though.

I travelled upwind on several tacks almost as far as Mordialloc pier. It was nice to cover some new areas. It was fun on the rollers coming back in, and on the small surf closer to the shore.

On the way back I did some slalom "fast carves to toeside" followed by a "fast carve back to heelside". There was enough wind to try several jump transitions too - some of which worked well. I find its a bit difficult to get a lot of air once the board speed is almost nothing though.

There was only about 5 other kiters out so everyone had lots of space. Ivan headed for Flinders earlier but I didn't have time to go there.

All photos

Brighton in yet another northerly

2011-10-20T21:50:00.001+11:00

Session 150 Thursday 21 October 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 20+ knots, N
Location: Brighton
Time: 11:00 to 12:00
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

The forecast for some reasonable north winds looked better than nothing, so Carrado and I headed down the Brighton Beach. There were a few kitesurfers out and the wind was strong enough for me to choose my 10m kite. I am glad I did, as I has to depower it occasionally.

Carrado headed out but was not used the gusty conditions. He came back in and then rested on the beach. I got some biggish air on jumps when gusts plucked me up while airborne. It was sunny and warm too. But it is usually a scary and unpredictable place to kite in a northerly.

Bring on the sea breezes.

Carrado with his kite

Sailing for a change

2011-10-16T21:39:00.001+11:00

There was some wind forecast for Saturday 15 October. Brendan, and friend with a lovely 25 foot wooden boat, was going out for a sail and invited me so I tagged along.

Carrado, a visiting Italian kitesurfer who contacted me via this blog, came along with his girlfriend too.

It was nice sailing out in 15 knots. We heaved to and had some lunch out past the shipping channel. On the way back the wind picked up to 25+ knots, which was quite exciting. The boat handled it well and was sailing fast.

Stuart was kitesurfing at St Kilda and said people had to drop their large kites quickly when the storm front arrived.

Kitesurfing on the butter at St Kilda

2011-10-09T22:21:00.000+11:00

Session 149, Sunday 9 October 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 18 knots, W
Location: St Kilda
Time: 4:30 to 5:30
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Did a nice mountain bike ride at Lorne in the morning - with the wind howling offshore as a storms ripped through. Alas, not much wind on the surf beaches as we drove home. Back in Melbourne, the wind picked up later in the day, so I was lucky to sneak in a nice session at St Kilda.

I spent most of my time in the kiddies pool and in the small surf/swell inside the marina. The wind was good. I focused on upwind technique and a few jumps. It wasn't too crowded for a change - there were only about 6 to 10 riders out - and they all knew what they were doing.

One session away from 150! Maybe its time for a big kiteloop . . .

Kitesurfing 747 pilot Claire Bunton

2011-10-06T11:54:00.001+11:00

Here is an interesting video ad (via Dan Harris) about accomplished kitesurfer Claire Bunton who is also a Captain on the British Airway’s B747 fleet.

Flying is in Claire’s blood. One of her ancestors is Amy Johnson, the pioneering British aviator. Her father and grandfather were also in aviation. She and her husband Kevin first learnt to kite surf for their first wedding anniversary in 1999, when the sport was just getting started.

By 2002 she was competing in the UK and internationally winning the BKSA championship and ranked number two in the world at the PKRA World Tour. During this time she was still flying for British Airways and had taken her command on the airline’s B747 ‘jumbo’ fleet.

The kite surfing footage was shot in West Sussex (East Preston).

In the kiddies pool at St Kilda

2011-10-02T23:40:00.000+11:00

Session 148, Sunday 2 October 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 20 knots, S
Location: St Kilda
Time: 4:30 to 5:30
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Full GPS Log

I managed to get a short session in today at St Kilda on my way home from the Transform Australia weekend conference at Geelong. It was really nice to get out on the water after 2 days inside.

I used the new kite compressor pump at The Zu Boardsports to inflate my kite - thanks guys!

I got going in the kiddies pool, which was a little crowded, but there was not quite enough wind for my 10m kite, so I headed out past the breakwater after a few runs. There was good wind out there, and a nice rolling swell to cruise down on the way back in.

No tricks today - there wasn't really enough wind. Another kiter (Peter, recently joined KBV) was out there with me for a couple of runs. Then I noticed him heading in and the wind dropping, so I headed in too. I had to loop the kite a few times to keep going, then made it to shore on a brief stronger gust.

I landed my kite and walked back along the beach. The sea breezes have not really started in earnest yet, but this one was good while it lasted.

A new helmet

2011-09-27T17:03:00.000+10:00

I have just bought a new helmet - a Protec B2 Wake water helmet - to replace the old Gath surf helmet I have been using since I started kitesurfing.

The B2 Wake has much better padding inside it and a standard rating. I have worn it once and it feels good. It feels less like a space helmet on my head and is pleasant to wear.

It also has ear protection pieces that can be removed if you wish.

At around $120 from The Zu Boardsports I think it was good value.

How much is your brain worth?

Mentone - the first south easterly for Spring

2011-09-24T21:55:00.000+10:00

Session 147, Saturday 24 September 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 20 knots, SE
Location: Mentone
Time: 3:30 to 5:00
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

The first south easterly for this Spring, and it was nice. I headed for Mentone and met Franz at the beach. We figured Altona would be quite crowded given the wind direction.

I couldn't resist a Kransky sausage with sauerkraut and mustard before the session from the sausage caravan vendor there.

It was really nice to have a side onshore breeze and some sunshine. There were a few windsurfers out too. Franz blew out a fin box which cut his session short, but he provided this photo of me kiting.

I did some nice jumps when the wind picked up, but there did not seem to be enough to do some good air gybes. I did a few and barely got off the water.

There was a nice small surf close to the shore and some big rollers further out. I attempted a backroll and succeeded in only doing half one - more commitment required.

At one stage there was about 8 kites on the water and around 5 windsurfers. Almost crowded!

It was a nice long session at 1.5 hours. Up on the grass I was packing away my kite when another dude landed his right next to me. I don't know why he didn't just land it on the beach and walk up the path. There were power lines and Beach Road only a few meters away.

Not much in the way of skills progression today, but a very satisfying session.

All photos

On the 7 at Brighton in the sunshine

2011-09-22T21:28:00.001+10:00

Session 146, Thursday 22 September 2011

Kite: Crossbow 7
Wind: 30+ knots, N, NNW
Location: Brighton
Time: 3:15 to 4:00
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

A strong northerly blew all day in Melbourne. I headed down mid afternoon and had a great session. I spoke to Natalie Clarke who had just come off the water - she said she was a bit overpowered on her 8m kite, so I decided to use my Crossbow 7.

It turned out to be the right choice - I had plenty of power - and a bit of wind range up my sleeve if the wind picked up further. The wind was gusting up to 35 knots at times, but was not too gusty. I headed upwind towards the Brighton Baths, then did some nice downwind runs back to the beach.

I did a few small jumps, a bit wary of getting boosted too high.

I used my 1mm suit for the first time this season, it was OK once I was up and going, but a bit cool in the water. Its best to be nice and warm in case you end up doing a long swim . . .

I got some nice photos of other kiters off the beach.

Photo album

Kitesurfer injured at Brighton

2011-09-20T21:08:00.003+10:00

A kitesurfer was reported injured today at Brighton in The Age.

"Fierce winds flung a kite surfer five metres into the air before he crashed into sand and broke his arm
on an inner Melbourne beach this morning."

"The 29-year-old man was kite surfing at Brighton beach when a strong gust of wind picked him up, hurled him through the air and sent him smashing into the ground."

"A few people on the beach saw what happened and came to his aid. They had to hold him down until they released his harness because the wind gusts threatened to send him into the air again."

"The kite surfer was taken to The Alfred hospital in a stable condition."

Information on Seabreeze indicates that the kitesurfer:

was experienced (about 4 years kiting)
was on a 9m kite (which is not a big kite)
was overpowered by a strong gust of 30-35 knots as he came in, having spotted an approaching storm front
deployed his safety after being lofted and impacting the beach (contrary to the news report).

I have had a few good sessions at Brighton recently, but over the last couple of days of gale force wind warnings - which have gusted up to 45 knots - I have not gone out. You can see how strong and unpredictable recent winds have been in the images below.

I have also posted warnings on this blog about exercising great caution when kitesurfing in northerlies at Brighton, and in storm fronts, as documented in my Kitesurfing Handbook here.

So please spread the word - if in doubt, don't go out.

And if don't have at least 1 year and 30 sessions experience, don't go out in these conditions either.

Let's keep kiting happy and safe.

External links

Arm broken as wind dumps kite surfer
Bad accident at Brighton 20 Sept - Kitesurfing Victoria - Seabreeze Forums

Jumping in a strong northerly at Brighton

2011-09-17T18:12:00.002+10:00

Session 145, Saturday 17 September 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 25-30- knots, N, NNE
Location: Brighton
Time: 2:00 to 3:15
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

GPS log
Max speed: 43.4 km/h
Time: 1:13 (moving)
Distance: 27.90

After a great ski trip at Mt Hotham last weekend it was great to get on the water. It was almost crowded at Brighton. The northerly was strong and consistent, and gathered strength during our session.

Stuart and I went upwind to get some flatter water near the breakwater of the marina. It was fast and furious at times. I did quite a few jumps, as you can see from the photos, exercising some caution to avoid ditching the kite and a long swim back in.

I did my first good jump transition today too! It has taken awhile to get it sorted. Resetting the board in the air helped a lot - similar to how you do a direction change - and having enough power to do a small jump and hang. The tricky part is getting enough air when you cut off all your speed, then resetting the board and flying the kite back the other way. Nice!

It was rather crowded just out from the beach. Some kids were getting about between kite lines while people were launching. Not good. I told one lady to keep her little girl out of the way and upwind.

I had the Switchblade 10 fully depowered for the whole session, and end up almost overpowered. One guy was pumping up a 12. I advised him to fly a smaller kite. He came back in after a few runs and got his 7.

The were some guys getting big air right next to the beach, and doing a kiteloop to land it. Spectacular, but the water is shallow . . .

Stuart got some more pictures for our kitesurfing handbook on rigging lines and some gear shots too.

Overall, a fantastic session. Yee ha!

Experienced kitesurfer accident at Breamlea

2011-09-14T18:01:00.002+10:00

The dangers of kitesurfing in gusty wind conditions have been highlighted by Christelle Le Baccon's unfortunate accident at Breamlea on 13 September 2011.

Christelle was kitesurfing with a companion and was caught by a gust of wind and lofted while attempting to land her kite. She was carried into a sand dune and suffered two broken lumbar verterbrae.

She is recovering in hospital. I wish her a speedy recovery.

Christelle's advice to other kitesurfers is:

"Make sure there is enough room to land your kite and ensure you're doing it in a safe environment."

Christelle Le Baccon with Kent Wright at the 2011 AKSA Kitesurfing Wave championships

External links

Kite-surfer tells of terrifying accident, Geelong Advertiser, 14 Sep 2011
Safety, Kitesurfing Handbook.

Riding a bucking bronco at Brighton!

2011-09-03T20:54:00.003+10:00

Session 144, Sunday 3 September 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 30-35- knots, N, NNE
Location: Brighton
Time: 10:30 to 12:00
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

GPS log
Max speed: 38.7 km/h
Time: 57m (moving)
Distance: 13.96

A dangerous session today - very difficult wind conditions. It was very strong and very gusty. It was like riding a bucking bronco.

When I arrived a kite was in the water close to the shore. The rider attempted a relaunch, which was a bit "hot" downwind and one of his lines broke, so that was the end of his session.

Slalom

Landed a jump

Coming in for a rest

Cranking in 35 knots. Photo: Ian Currie, Heraldsun

Denholm Laufmann (jumping) and Peter Campbell (background) kitesurfing at Brighton. Photo: Ian Currie, Heraldsun

I got on the water at about 10:30 and kited for about 40 minutes in around 30 knots. It was stronger further out and not so strong near the shore. Stuart was out too. We did the usual upwind tack out, then speed run back in with some slalom turns and jumps. My kite was fully depowered, yet I still had to sheet out in response to the big gusts that were coming through.

Warning: these conditions are for advanced kiters only, and even then, only with the right size kite.

I came in to have a chat to my friend and Yoga teacher Tony Rothberg, who was watching from the beach. While we were on the beach, a kite completely detached from a rider and flew for a while, then landed in the water. It may have been one of the Cabrinha IDS velcro attachments ripping off, or he may have broken his leash (less likely).

There was no way we could catch the kite, and going out to get would have been riskly. It then blew in toward Green Point, eventually coming into some reef where it flew again briefly then went down hard and stayed down, presumably with a burst bladder. It was obviously damaged and may have been a write off. The kiter (a Frenchman) took off in his car to get it.

While this was going on, Natalie Clarke was out having a good time. A Channel 7 news photographer showed up "to get some photos of the wind". He took some photos of Natalie and other kiters. I worded him up about Natalie's great achievement kiting across Bass Strait last years. The photos may make it in tomorrow's Sunday Heraldsun.

I headed out for another short session. The wind was even stronger with bigger whitecaps evident. I was powered up, and coming back on a tack decided it was getting a bit too strong, so I headed for the beach and a couple of guys grabbed my kite and said a major gust was coming through. I was very happy to have the kite back on the beach.

Another rider commented as he came in that it was "dangerous conditions out there"; everyone agreed.

Here is my track log:

Photo slideshow

A perfect winter session - upwind at Brighton.

2011-08-28T22:38:00.000+10:00

Session 143, Sunday 28 August 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 25-3- knots, N
Location: Brighton
Time: 3:30 to 5:00
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

GPS log
Max speed: 41.4 km/h
Time: 1h30m
Distance: 29.14

Great session today - one of the best. Good wind at Brighton, consistent and strong.

After getting a few rigging photos for our Kitesurfing Handbook, Stuart and I headed upwind as it was a bit crowded off the beach. It was fresh and invigorating. We headed upwind past the Brighton Marina all the way up the Elwood.

I dropped the kite once while setting the depower. It came overhead and fluttered to the water. Thankfully I relaunched it without much hassle.

The downwind run back was superb. Heaps of speed, powered up, and time for some good jumps, carved slalom turns and toeside riding.

I rigged the kitecam pointing to far back to get yours truly in the frame, but I got some good shots around Brighton and a few of Stuart in the distance.

Back on the beach I was chatting to Stuart and Franz when to kites got tangled just offshore. Franz towed me out, I grabbed one and dragged it back to the shore. It all ended well.

Tired but very content.

All photos

Kitesurfing handbook

2011-08-19T15:55:00.003+10:00

I have written this Kitesurfing Handbook with Stuart Webb as a coauthor, capturing a lot of the information on this blog in a handbook format so it can be easily found. I have also provided links to additional information sources.

The focus is on equipment, tips, safety and travel. Introductory and intermediate skills and techniques are also covered, along with suggested skills progression.

Feel free to leave any comments or suggestions about the Handbook below.

Grabbing a tiger by the tail at Brighton

2011-08-03T20:18:00.006+10:00

Session 142, Monday 3 August 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 25-3- knots, N
Location: Brighton
Time: 2:pm to 3:30
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Franz, and fellow kiter I have just met, called me today around noon to suggest a kiting session at Brighton in the good northerly that was blowing. I checked Predictwind, and it looked like the northerly would be there for the afternoon, so I headed down after a hasty lunch and met Franz at Brighton beach.

It was blowing well. Some whitecaps were visible and several kiters already on the water were zinging along. I decided to take out my 10m kite as it looked like the wind would remain strong. This was the right decision!

After recent "cool northerlies" of around 15-20 knots, this was a different beast. It was like grabbing a tiger by the tail. The bar was yanked hard, even with full depower on, and the kite was jerked and tugged all over the place. Speed was the order of the day. I kept a slow tack out into the bay swell, but come back in fast. Going upwind was a cinch too.

This was the hottest 3rd of August day in Melbourne since 1834 with 23.2C at 3:06pm ! It was almost a touch of summer.

Franz was on the water for a lesser time as he had a commitment mid afternoon. I made my way back up to the marina and even further up. There was a curious small wind shadow (about 15knots) behind the marina, but every else it was going off.

I did a few small jumps, wary of getting hoiked towards the heavens, and actually succeeded in a couple of small jump transitions. The key is to get the board oriented while in the air and fly the kite fairly hard in the new direction. Its not perfected yet though.

Coming back downwind was a hoot. Lots of speed and some nice slalom turns. I did a bit of toeside riding but stacked once. The kite was so powered I had some trouble getting the board back on my feet with one foot in it and getting dragged.

Back on the shore, another kiter landed my kite. Self-landing would have been a real hassle today, so that was nice.

A great session, but a testing one. 20km total and a maximum speed of 41.3 km/h.

Looking across the bay towards Altona

Melbourne CBD on the right horizon

Brighton Baths and pier

Fanging

Fanging downwind

Woot Woot!

Photo Album

A new kiteboarding shop in Melbourne - The Zu

2011-07-31T23:06:00.000+10:00

A new kitesurfing shop has opened in Melbourne - The Zu Boardsports in the West Beach Pavilion at St Kilda. Ivan Salmon is running the shop - which was previously known as Katani, at the great beach location right next to Melbourne's most popular kitesurfing location.

Ivan really knows his kitesurfing. He was a great help to me when I started kitesurfing. He has an wealth of expert knowledge about kites, boards and accessories, as well as techniques.

Drop in to check out the shop. You can even test ride a very zippy electric skateboard. I had a ride - its heaps of fun.

They have a wide range of kites too so you can compare and get advice about several brands, unlike some shops that only tend to carry one or two brands.

Being right on the beach, testing out gear on demo runs will be a great option too.

Ivan on the fast cross country electric skateboard

Inside The Zu

A wide range of kites

The beast - test ride recommended!

Ivan riding the beast

Brighton again with cool wind

2011-07-30T18:41:00.003+10:00

Session 141, Saturday 30 July 2011

Kite: Noise 12

Wind: 15-20 knots, N

Location: Brighton

Time: 4:00am to 4:45

Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Some good wind was forecast for today. Stuart and I headed down to check out Keast Park near Seaford. Its a nice spot with a reasonable beach for launching, but there was not a breath of wind.

Yet Fawkner Beacon was reading 15 knots! So we headed back to Brighton. There was enough wind to get going so we headed out.

A lovely session. Cool but not too cold. Squalls were passing to the north. Good consistent wind, again better about 300m out where the turbo kicked in. We went upwind to gain ground in case the wind dropped.

After about 40 minutes of great kitesurfing, the wind did drop a little with us 800m or more offshore, so we headed back in. I landed my kite just as a light shower arrived. Stuart came in a short while later.

Another chilly winter session at Brighton

2011-07-17T17:47:00.000+10:00

Session 140, Sunday 17 July 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 25 knots, N
Location: Brighton
Time: 10:30am to 12 noon
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

A nice crisp winters day in Melbourne, with a good northerly forecast by Predictwind. Just as I arrived at Brighton to meet Stuart, the wind jumped from around 12 knots to 20+ knots. Game on!

Given the possibility of the wind dropping out, and the wind shadow effect close to the beach, I decided to take out my Noise 12m.

Wetsuit, booties and vest on, kite pumped and rigged in feverish haste. It was superb to get onto the water. The wind was good, but definitely gusty. It was around 15-20 knots leaving the shore, then at about 250 meters it jumped to 25+ knots. I depowered my Noise kite once, then more, to keep control. The depower below the bar is very had to set with any pull on the bar, so I stop, take the pressure off the depower line, pull it in and re-cleat it.

There is a lot of depower adjustment with this kite, and just as well. This would be the strongest wind I have been out in with it. Going upwind was a cinch, and the kite was easy to control. But the big variation in wind speed was challenging. There was even an odd brief lull before the wind came surging back with a vengeance.

Stuart and I did an upwind tour past the Brighton Marina, then headed back doing some jumps, carved turns to toeside and some nice slalom moves. I have the right turn to toeside nailed, but need to practice the left turn.

After 30 minutes some other kiters showed up and it almost got crowded. My feet were cold even with booties on so it was good to come back in - just when the wind dropped too!

We got the wind window right today! It was really great to get out on the winter water wonderland.

One guy's kite got blown onto some exposed reef and cut up a bit. Just to reiterate, Brighton is no place for beginners in a northerly.

Fun but no sun, the You Yangs in the distance

Handy car parking, but watch out for cyclists on the road and the bike path

Brighton Beach vista

Check out the variation in wind speed, and our lucky window

Solo at Hampton in clean winter wind

2011-06-18T21:52:00.001+10:00

Session 139, Saturday 18 June 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 20 knots, W
Location: Hampton
Time: 9:15am to 10:30am
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

I arrived early at Hampton at about 8:45 and dodged the cyclists on Beach Road to check out the beach. Stuart was already rigging up and headed out in about 15 knots. The wind looked a bit sketchy and I had missed my morning coffee so I was feeling a bit sluggish. The wind picked up a bit though so I scooted back to my car parked up a side street near Hampton Beach (parking is prohibited from 6-10am).

It was great to be on the water again with some wind. The wreck is now gone from the water which is nice. I headed across to the breakwall and back for a couple of runs, working the kite to just stay upwind. Stuart came in and headed home early.

I stayed kiting to maximise my time on the water. Just when I thought the wind was going to drop right out, whoosh - in came 20+ knots. I even de-powered my Noise 12 for a while and did some good jumps. By this time I was the only one on the water which was nice.

With more wind I was able to go upwind past the Sandringham marina rock wall for a view up to Black Rock, then all the back to Middle Brighton for some small waves. There was some nasty reef popping up close to shore there though.

Having worked a good distance upwind, I then did some toe-side riding and powered "slalom turns" from heelside to toe-side and back again. It was nice to get out of the "heel-side rut" for a while.

Jump transitions are still eluding me though. I get some air, but when I try to send the kite in the new direction I just tea-bag under it. I need to fly it more aggressively, but I am not sure where. Perhaps into a kite loop or a down loop? I have looked at a few videos but can't quite figure this out. Its tricky.

I came right into near the marina then took a spill and lost my board. There was not quite enough wind to body drag back to it. I got very close so I put the kite down, swam a few strokes, grabbed it, then relaunched the kite. There was not enough wind to get back out though so I came into shore and landed the kite a bit awkwardly when the wind dropped right out.

It was a really good session . Distance, speed, some jumps and nice wind.

I tried some new "wetsuit gloves" made for canoeing too. The worked well and kept my hands warm. They have a bit of a curve in the fingers so you don't have to fight the neoprene to hang on to the bar.

I had a nice toasted sandwich and coffee in the nearby Biskit cafe - which I can recommend for the food, coffee and bayside view. I spoke to a guy in a wetsuit - who turned out to be a diver doing some rescue diver training with a group just off Middle Brighton beach. He said there was not much on the bottom, but there are a lot of sea urchins 30m out and deeper. Yikes! So be careful at Hampton and Brighton.

View from Biskit Cafe

1.5 hours kitesurfing, coffee and toasted sandwich = happy

The right place at the right time for the wind

Ben Wilson kitesurfs 11m wave at Cloudbreak, Fiji

2011-06-17T00:34:00.003+10:00

Ben Wilson recently rode an 11m wave at Cloudbreak, Fiji. This is an amazing achievement. Hats off to Ben!

Here is some video footage (its also a Jeep ad).

And two pictures worth a thousand words from Ben:

Boosting at Brighton

2011-06-05T22:53:00.000+10:00

Session 138, Sunday 5 June 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 25 knots, N
Location: Brighton
Time: 9:00pm to 11:00am
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Stuart and I arrived at Brighton at about 9:00. The northerly forecast was blowing so we headed out with haste. I was testing out my "line ordering device" for the first time (more on this later). Laying out the lines was much easier but I did get one outside line twisted to I had to re-rig it.

There was a gale warning for the day, but the peak wind was forecast for around noon, so we elected to go out earlier and avoid the peaks.

Glorious sunshine and a lovely day. There was a climate-change rally on at 11am in the city, so the choice was "save the planet" or "be a funhog". I was hoping to do both, but in the end I missed the rally.

Just off shore the wind picked up and we got in a few good runs, but then it backed off a little. Not wanting to get stranded 500+m offshore I headed in, doing a few kiteloops close to shore to get in. I landed the kite near the bathing boxes, the walked back to the launch site, waiting for the wind to improve.

It did. A honking 25 knots sprang up, gusting to 30. I was well powered on the 10m kite and getting some good speed. I did a few nice jumps, but am still struggling with doing a jump transition (turning). My homework is to learn the theory on what to do with the kite to get this sorted. I think I need to fly it more aggressively in the new direction (of the turn).

I am getting a bit rusty riding toeside too. More practice is needed. The desire to avoid crashing at Brighton in a northerly is strong, so I find it limits my appetite for trying new tricks.

I did some very quick runs (no GPS though) and landed quite a few nice jumps. There were a couple of other kiters out initially. More arrived later.

Coming in, I was nice and warm but my hands were a bit chilled. Stuart and I were on the beach with our kites up. I signalled to another kiter to land mine. But when I brought it down, he walked past it towards Stuart's. The he headed back to grab mine but a gust jetted it forward. I left it on the sand but before he got to it it relauched and zinged across he wind window. Stuart kept his how then I jumped across his lines and all was good.

Walking back, someone's board bag was drifting along in the water, having been blown off the beach. I headed down and retrieved it then walked it back to where the kites were. The owner was trotting along looking for it and was happy to have it back.

In summary, great kitesurfing but quite tricky conditions ranging from not enough wind to almost too much and some quite big gusts.

Chasing two rainbows at Hampton at the edge of a storm

2011-05-24T22:16:00.000+10:00

Session 137, Tuesday 24 May 2011

Kite: Switchblade 10
Wind: 20 knots, S
Location: Hampton
Time: 4:15pm to 5:30pm
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

A strong southerly was blowing most of the day. I got down to Hampton late in the afternoon after attending to some domestic chores. There was about 23 knots when I rigged up and headed out on my 10m kite, and 2 other kiters on the water.

It was a magical experience. Kiting out I saw one prominent rainbow, and coming back in I saw another one. Unfortunately my camera was mounted the wrong way in my kitecam rig, so no pictures, which was a bit disappointing.

It was nice to fly the 10m kite again. I popped a few small jumps, but was mainly enjoying the brisk air, good wind and the great atmospherics. The wind dropped after a few runs however, so I came in to shore near the groyne with a kiteloop for more power.

I then did a kiteloop the wrong way and stuffed it right up, crashing the kite next to the groyne. I didn't have time to relaunch it then the kite got swamped. I swam in and secured it. I had to get the lines off the rocks. I will check them tomorrow for any wear and tear, hopefully they will be OK.

A decent squall then arrived and it got dark rapidly. It was great to get out.

Better wind at Brighton, a nice speed day

2011-05-22T19:49:00.003+10:00

Session 136, Sunday 22 May 2011

Kite: Noise 12

Wind: 20-25 knots, N

Location: Brighton Beach

Time: 2pm to 4pm

Board: Naish Haize twin tip

GPS data

Max speed: 42.6 km/h
Trip: 27.1 km
Average speed: 21.1 km/h
Time: 1:17

Another winter northerly was on today, so I headed to Brighton for another session. There were about 5 kites on the beach when I arrived at about 2pm, the wind had just dropped. It soon picked up again and I got on the water with haste.

The wind was better than yesterday and not too gusty. I was well powered on the 12m Noise, eventually depowering it to compensate for the strength. It got up to 25 knots, but I was able to cope well enough using the depower.

I did a few fast tacks and jumps, crashing once at speed and loosing my board. I body-dragged upwind to get it. I then headed upwind to the Brighton Marina. There were a few other kiters in the vicinity. I could see several kites inside the marina too. On the way upwind I spotted a small dinghy yacht capsized with an inflatable in attendance. I cruised past, a fair way offshore, but all was OK.

Zoom zoom zoom

I eventually entered the marina, and immediately regretted it. The wind speed was lower and it was gustier. I couldn't make it out again, so I headed into the flat water, but it was basically a waste of time. The kite shot ahead of the wind in a strong gust then fell out of the sky into the water. I relaunched it, walked across the sand bar, then headed back out past the rock wall, only just making it.

I then headed back to Brighton, well powered and zooming along. I did more jumps to go downwind, but I was reluctant to try anything too ambitious as crashing and tangling the kite in this crossshore/offshore would mean a lengthy an tiring self rescue.

I felt much better today after yesterday's refresher. Regular kitesuring certainly contributes to improved safety.

Brighton Beach, great to be on the water again.

2011-05-21T18:26:00.006+10:00

Session 135, Saturday 21 May 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 15-20 knots, N
Location: Brighton Beach
Time: 2:30pm to 4pm
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

The reasonable northerly forecast came in, so I headed to Brighton. It was surprisingly warm, but I still wore my NPX 3/2 suit and vest. Booties stop the water jetting up the wetsuit leg too.

I felt surprisingly rusty after a couple of weeks off the water so I eased back into it. The prospect of crashing the kite and a lengthy self rescue it daunting at Brighton in a northerly too.

It was very refreshing to get on the water again. Life seems to slip into the slow zone with no kitesurfing.

Its nice in the winter sun with a warm wind and the water not too cold too.

A face shot of powder

Passing to starboard (keep right)

Kitesurfing the winter storm fronts in Melbourne

2011-05-14T10:43:00.009+10:00

Winter arrived with a vengeance in mid May in Melbourne. Storms, rain, cold temperatures and some wind.

However, the wind is very variable, so great caution is needed when choosing to go kitesurfing. It is definitely not the season for beginners. Very strong gusts can come with little or no warning.

A word of warning: strong gusts can overpower you and send you airborne with very serious consequences. You can wreck your gear, get seriously injured, or even lose your life. If in doubt, don't go out.

Here is a drill for watching the weather and choosing when to head out.

1. Check out Predictwind and/or Seabreeze for a good forecast

You can also set email alerts for good wind conditions.
The Bureau of Metereology also provides forecasts, but its not so easy to find out their wind predictions.

2. Check Baywinds and/or Seabreeze for current conditions

3. Check South Channel to see what is coming through down south

There is a reasonable expectation that conditions down there will reach Melbourne in about 40 minutes
The wind intensity and gusts may drop a bit by the time they reach Melbourne's bayside suburbs
Note the scale change due to high winds in the graph below!

4. Check Fawkner Beacon for bayside wind conditions

5. Check the BOM weather radar for squalls, thunderstorms and rainfall

5. Choose your beach based on wind direction

6. Choose the right kite size

Go smaller rather than larger so you can more safely handle strong gusts.

As a guide, for my 85kg weight I use:

Wind 12-20 knots: 12m Noise kite - Benwilsonsurf
Wind 20-30 knots: 10m Switchblade - Cabrinha
Wind 30-40 knots: 7m Crossbow - Cabrinha

Stuart, who weighs 75kg, uses the following:

Wind 15-25 knots: 10m Switchblade- Cabrinha
Wind 25-40 knots: 7m Crossbow - Cabrinha

Notes:

I don't recommend going out in wind greater than 40 knots.
The above wind range is for riders with over 1 years experience and at least 30 sessions logged.

7. Watch for any thunderstorms and squall when on the water and come in if some arrive.
Note that a squall can miss you but the gust front can still blast you from the side of the storm cell.

8. Have fun. The cold water chills hands and feets even with booties and gloves on, so don't stay out too long.

What to do if you get caught in a strong gust or squall
So you have 12 months experience, have taken all the necessary precautions, but the mother of all gusts comes in and hammers you and things are rapidly going pear shaped. What do you do?

The following suggestions have been provided by other kiters on via Seabreeze:

If you can't get in to shore in time to beat the squall, head out to sea so you have a better safety margin away from hard objects. On the shore with your kite up is the worst possible position to be in, and landing it there can be very dangerous.
You should keep your kite low if a squall hits. Worst case you get dragged sideways, but this is much better than being picked up in the air and thrown into buildings, cars, boats, piers or a rockwall.
Ride with one hand on your safety so you can ditch the kite quickly if you need to.
If you are getting dragged and there is danger, release your bar and deploy your safety #1.
If you are still getting dragged too fast or being lofted, release your leash and the kite with it (safety #2)

If you are on the beach and other kiters are in trouble in gusts, render what assistance you can, but keep clear of kite lines. Note that if you hang on to another kiter's harness you might both be lofted. If in doubt, make sure safety releases are deployed, then secure the kite(s).

Flailing at Hampton then redemption

2011-04-22T09:04:00.005+10:00

Session 134, Friday 22 April 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 15-20 knots, WSW
Location: Hampton Beach
Time: 9:00 to 1:30p
Board: S-Quad and Naish Haize twin tip

I was really hanging out for a kiting session after a couple of weeks of little or no wind. Put this in your diary: in mid-April, someone turns the wind-switch off in Melbourne.

There was a good westerly and south westerly forecast today. When Stuart and arrived at Hampton it was on.

I decided to take out the S-Quad surfboard for a run. Things didn't go well. First I crashed the kite on the beach starting my first run. Overzealous on the power stroke and maybe unused to the wind direction. I re-rigged it. Then I got going - sort of - and headed over to towards the marina, where I ran out of wind and came back to shore downwind.

Leaving the beach

A very wet kite

The beach

Spectators on the groyne

The marina

It was one of those days when you needed to get out to get the good wind.

This session was very frustrating. I crashed the kite several times and re-rigged it. A couple of crashes were due to the donkey dick popping out. It is too short on my early version of the Noise - they have lengthened it on the production models. When re-hooking the chicken loop the kite fell out of the sky.

Once I relaunched with the bridle lines looped and knotted so it crashed promptly. Memo to self: check your bridle as well as the lines when re-rigging after a crash and tangle.

I was having some trouble with the surfboard too. Its been a while since I have used it, and I found myself pulled over forwards a few times, and also, surprisingly, bogging in to the water while trying to go upwind. The leg leash is a pain too. I might leave it off when in the bay. I still can't gibe turn so switching feet is frustrating too.

In short, I felt like a beginner all over again. Towards midday the wind picked up and I was able to get some good runs in. Stuart headed home, but I stayed and took the twin tip out to redeem my session. This went well. I was well powered and headed down to Green Point through the surf on the reefs and back past the breakwater. I was certainly tired at the end of this, but satisfied.

Note that the boat wreck is still in the water close to the shore at Hampton, and are very hard to see. Be careful - there is a nasty piece of timber sticking up. Apparently someone beached the boat while under the influence on their way into the marina. It is a significant hazard and should be removed.

Sandy Point in search of wind, we found some surf

2011-04-17T13:07:00.002+10:00

We planned a trip to Sandy Point about a month ago and took a punt on the wind. The forecast almost came good, but the wind certainly didn't on the weekend of 16-17 April. Around this time of year, somebody flicks the "wind switch" off in Victoria.

We hung out at Shallow Inlet hoping for the wind to get stronger, to no avail. Stuart cranked up his old Cabrinha 16m C kite but we couldn't get it going well in around 8 knots!

The inlet certainly is shallow, and usually gets very strong wind racing across the large sand bar that separates it from the sea. Wilsons Promontory looms in the distance.

Grant and Stuart won the "crossing Shallow Inlet" competition gliding along slowly on a windsurfer.

We puttered around in my inflatable dinghy, did a bit of fishing then had a nice counter meal at the Fish Creek Hotel.

Sandy Point is a quiet place to hang out, but there is a good general store and cafe. The burgers are great.

We had a nice surfing session on Sunday with just the four of us sharing a small break. I was on by goat boat and having a good time, while the others got some good rides on a variety of larger boards.

Next time, we plan to watch the wind forecast more closely and only make the house booking in the final week.

Watching for the wind

Sandy Point Beach, Wilsons Prom in the distance

Sandy Point beach looking across to Waratah Bay

Shallow Inlet

Shallow Inlet and the C kite

D'oh! Not enough wind

Gnotuk and a backroll that went pear-shaped

2011-04-03T18:27:00.003+10:00

Session 135, 2 April 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 15 knots, SSW
Location: Gnotuk Avenue, Aspendale
Time: 2:00 to 4:00 (1.5h)
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Did a nice bike ride to Arthurs Seat and back - training for the cycle leg of next weekend's Marysville to Melbourne Multisport Challenge.

I headed to Gnotuk after the ride. There was some wind and a few kiters out, but I needed some food so I had lunch at the seaside cafe at Edithvale Lifesaving Club.

When I returned to Gnotuk and rigged up the wind dropped. I waited for a while, and eventually it came in. I did a few tacks, enjoying the coolness of the water after my bike ride.

The wind was coming and going, so a few more waits were required. Then Stuart showed up, and the wind came in stronger. I was going well and enjoying the small surf along with tours along the beach.

I did a back roll and things went pear-shaped. I got around the roll but I think I kept going. The kite downlooped and I got yanked hard and smacked into the water. The kite inverted and I couldn't relaunch it, so I drifted in, deployed the safety release and secured my kite on the beach. Trying tricks does entail the risk of big prangs, but all was OK.

Tip: Put your hand in the middle of the bar when doing a backroll. This reduces the likelihood of turning the kite.

I relaunched after checking my rigging, but the wind dropped and was onshore, so I flailed about in the surf for a while without getting out behind it. Eventually I gave up, satisfied that I had had enough thrills and exercise for the day.

Hampton with my kitecam and not much wind

2011-04-02T20:18:00.001+11:00

Session 135, 2 April 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 15 knots, SSW
Location: Hampton Beach
Time: 10:30 to 11:45 (1h)
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

Its getting cooler in Melbourne now. I arrived at Hampton just after 10:00am. There were a couple of kites on the beach and lots of yachts out past the breakwater. One kiter went out and downwind and walked back up the beach.

I rigged up as I was keen to try out my new kite camera - the Casio Exilim EX-G1 - and to get out if the wind picked up a little.

I headed out some distance on my first tack to get the better wind that was blowing well clear of the breakwater. The Noise 12m kite handles light wind well - this was about 15 knots - so I was able to get in a few tacks. It then dropped out a bit so I did some kiteloops to get back to the beach (downwind) then walked back to my gear on the beach.

I got out for some more runs about 10 minutes later. Once again, the wind was better further out, but it certainly wasn't strong. Here are some of the kitecam shots.

Scooting past the groyne (just)

Back to the marina

Looking out across Port Phillip Bay

Hampton Beach looking towards Middle Brighton

The Walk of Shame

Missed the wind at Port Melbourne

2011-04-01T19:51:00.005+11:00

Session 134, 1 April 2011

Kite: Noise 12
Wind: 13 knots, SSW
Location: Port Melbourne
Time: 6:10 to 6:20 (10 minutes)
Board: Naish Haize twin tip

The wind conked out, so this wasn't really as session, although I did get wet. The wind came in strong at 5:00pm but I was not on the water until just after 6:00pm. I was heading out on my first tack and was going very close to the end of the small pier just east of Port Melbourne Yacht Club.

The return tack took me slightly downwind so I ended up on the beach just near the pier, walked back and landed my kite.

Somebody turned off the wind switch.

But I did get these photos from my new kitecam - a Casio Exilim EX-G1.