LV4: windsurf/kite – La Ventana (Mar 24)
Fourth session of the trip, but first wind powered - the first three being Sup/surf sessions.
The day started with a flat water paddle atop the ‘aquarium’ and we were treated to visits from a rainbow of fish including what looked like a tuna, trumpet, large clown, sea snake and many more!
Punchy. For a ‘marginal’ forecast it turned on and was pretty solid. Launched Ethan on 9m from just below the campground. While I raced down to grab my windsurfing gear Ethan got overpowered after crossing into the wind line, got pulled forward while turning on the outside and caught a toe side edge, lost his board, ejected his kite, and had to self-rescue. I caught up to him as he arrived at the beach down in the corner. The good news was he knew what to do, was able to get himself in, and he was safe. He was pretty upset about losing his board, but I said I was happy he was safe, and we could easily rent or replace the board. Sailed upwind (well powered 5.3/115 in some playful water) and looked for his board – no luck. Once out on the water I could see how the gusts could have knocked Ethan off balance. Returned back to Baja Joes and he was keen to launch again, but this time on 7m for more control in the gusts with a rental board from the good folk at Elevation. He got in some rides and was driving upwind well when the wind got really punchy and started to shoulder off for the evening. The funny part is our hosts Phil and Emily’s (Casa Verde) parents found Ethan’s board on their walk down the beach (down at the last white house where I had guessed it might wash up)! Ethan broke a beaming smile when he saw it! Latter as I walked with Ethan we chatted about how challenging experiences can lead to experience (even if they are frustrating at the time). Eventful day, even if not exactly to plan.
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