The Spit was Kooked yesterday!

bulae99 · Since 12 Jul 2006 1692 Posts XTreme Poster

So, went out in the gusty conditions yesterday and noticed several kooks. I'm not complaining, rather I would like to welcome all of you to the Da Gorge. Here is some things you may want to know:

**Please Launch and move out of the way! Get your kite up and then move to the north of the big yellow cone!!!

If you have any doubts about your ability, kite size, or whatever, ask somebody! Most people will help you if you ask. If they don't help they don't know. ASK, ASK, don't be shy!!!

Please don't fly your kite directly overhead!!!! Straight overhead on the beach only leads to problems. Don't fly at noon in the window. Fly at 3, Keep it low and go!

If you need help ask somebody to help you!!

Don't try to pick up your board and then dump your kite.

**Kite size!! Yesterday was an interesting day. Saw 11, 10 and then 8's. This time of year we get wind increases as gradients build due to thermals.

Have fun, ask for help, and don't launch and stand in the middle of the starting point. If you are unsure take a lesson!!!

comments? Very Happy

forrest · Since 21 Jun 2005 4330 Posts Hood River Hick **CGKA Member**

undertow · Since 15 Feb 2008 371 Posts BeaversBurg Obsessed

You mean I cant put on my GoJoe after I launch the kite????

Wink

Sol-flyer · Tue May 19, 09 9:02 am

good for you bulae,...Your turning into a more responsible kiter. I think it took me ahwile to realize that some people are dangerous and have a great chance not only getting hurt...But also threatening launch access.

Its up to us kiters to self police ourselves. Next time anybody see's somebody "KOOKING" it would be a very noble/responsible thing to go to them and give them pointers. I know the talking about it on forums helps, But not everybody reads the forums....On the beach comes first. (even the experts need to be reminded of this, possibly more than beginners)

-sol

bulae99 · Since 12 Jul 2006 1692 Posts XTreme Poster

You wanna know what is cool.. I saw a pro kiter named Tonia Farman, helping a guy land his kite. She ran over and had to run to catch the kite. She didn't make the guy feel stupid or anything, she just helped.

Yesterday was one of those 12 to 30 mph gusty days when people didn't know if they should rig 8, 9, 10 or 11!

I saw several guys on the beach feeling around for the their boards almost drop their kites. I helped a couple of dudes by grabbing their boards and telling them to keep the kite below noon.

It took me all of 5 extra minutes to help some folks out.

Bottom line!!!

I would rather help you on the beach than in the water!

mikeinhoodriver · Since 23 Apr 2009 442 Posts down wind somewhere Obsessed

Any more "Kooking" lessons? I am going to be one of those soon, following my tea-bagging trips from Wells. I am a newb. I actually am more nervous about fitting in on the spit, then I am kiting. I wish to abide by local etiquette and customs, but I agree with the above statement. If someone needs a little direction or help, by all means provide it, but do so in a way that will serve as an ambassador for the sport. I cannot wait til I reach the level of competence and skill, where I too can help others out (isn't that half as fun?). Look for a local Kook soon!! Smile

pdxmonkeyboy · Tue May 19, 09 4:57 pm

Mike, just get out there and learn now before it is REALLY kooked up in the summer. besides, I'm not too sure you really want to get all involved with the sand bar gang. Remember what how upset Jimmy's parents were when he was finally accepted as a sand bar kid....

http://www.southparkstudios.com/clips/153906/?searchterm=Krazy+Kripples

mikeinhoodriver · Since 23 Apr 2009 442 Posts down wind somewhere Obsessed

Thanks Monkey! Now if the weather would only cooperate.... Sad

As far as the gang thing goes...just dont tell my wife. Smile

bulae99 · Since 12 Jul 2006 1692 Posts XTreme Poster

Monkey is right! Get out now because it's not really that crowded...yet. Shocked

The trick is to get to a point where you are comfortable with launching and then launch.

Have Fun!!

If you have any doubts ask questions on this forum. I've learned a ton of stuff by asking questions here and at the beach.

Very Happy

If you smart factor gets overloaded by your sack factor and you make a bad choice that leads to land plowing you will know that you should have asked more questions.

Ture?
Commnets?