The wind forecast was good for Lake James and better for Lake Hartwell. I decided to go to Lake James because then I could be back home for family time. I arrived and rigged up a 5.3 sail and got ready to head out.
As I was getting ready, I sneezed.... and pulled my lower back. Dang it, not enough ham string stretching.
I turned around and looked towards the Linville Gorge and saw the giant dark gray storm clouds rolling in. A couple of motor boats that had left the dock in a the past couple of minutes came flying back, trying to get loaded and out of the water before the storm hit.
I put rocks on the sail and board and huddled in the truck for 15 minutes, until I could see blue sky again. The wind was cranking and I was nervous. Why? I don't know, The recent trip to Ocracoke definitely boosted my confidence and skill, so I really have nothing to worry about. Just relax and go windsurfing. So, I did. 2 runs, and I came back in to switch to my 4.6 meter sail.
I was absolutely flying across the water. Sheeted all the way out (kind of like idling in a vehicle) and I was going as fast as the board could go. I had to be careful as the wind wanted to slip under the board and push it up into the air. I love jumping, but I also like to be in control!
I was at the edge of control, but stayed out for an hour to practice. Waterstarts, Jybes, Tacking, I felt good through all of the maneuvers.
I was a bit tired and my back was hurting, so I called it a day. Epic day, but definitely worth the trip!
No comments:
Post a Comment