Downwinder

[Fluffy]

Looks like I'm out lads, stay safe. Someone found a bunch of painting and drywall clean up for me to do

[Snarfer]

Harry did a downwinder 2 weeks ago in Hood River. The big problem was that the group got split up and spread so far apart that they couldn't track everybody. Rather than sticking modestly close together, everybody went apeshit and focused on themselves. So take heed, this isn't going to be an organized downwinder unless all the participants agree to some basic safety precautions. Just saying.

[Martin]

marion feels up to driving to Vic to pick me up so that part is organized.

Do we have any idea of how many for tomorrow?

Come on Greg, do it!
You already gave a strapless clinic last night. Good show!
I see it includes a lot of time in the water!

[abetanzo]

I guess we'll see who shows up...
I wouldn't suggest riding the boat up to Gordon's even if Skywalker needs company its a long boat ride that will make your teeth chatter!
I can take two riders to Sooke from Victoria with gear but would need to return Saturday night to get my car back.
The forecast has dropped a little thanks to the premature stoke!
I'm still in and will sort out my SPOT tracker soon enough.. it seems to be working but I just cant load the page to view for some reason. bugger.

[skywalker]

So take heed, this isn't going to be an organized downwinder unless all the participants agree to some basic safety precautions. Just saying.

I totally agree Snarfer...a group spread is the WORST thing that can happen.

Max spread is 200 m, and try not to go in front of the coach boat.

Its good that this will be a small group to start I think.

[Martin]

Still looking great for wind tomorrow......AND GALES ARE POSSIBLE AT LEAST SATURDAY EVENING. From the US discussion.

Wonder how many turns I can make in 42km?

If anyone has done this, did you take water along? (no, not the ocean water).

[juandesooka]

I figure I can get there by 4pm. So I'll just leave then and catch up....just kidding! Look forward to hearing the tales.

[skywalker]

Also I need a spotter on the boat with me, if anyone feels like they want to tag along, but arent ready to kite yet

Martin- I can bring your water on the boat if you want

John, we may be able to work something out. Whats your schedule?

[abetanzo]

if we dont leave until 4 will you join us John?

[juandesooka]

yes I would! I'm leaving Port Alberni Sat 11am with a truck full of family and towing a boat....should be back 3-4pm, unless chaos happens (as it seems to, when most need things to go smooth).

Come to think of it....should be there earlier, all going well.

Would be stoked to join if it works!

[thankgodiatepastafobreaky]

OK. I'm in!

[thankgodiatepastafobreaky]

any objections to me calling my friend at the Sooke paper for a short article and photos? She has been waiting for a call so she can do a story on kite surfing. This is even more interesting for a story.

[skywalker]

Woot! Thats awesome pasta

Press is great! She can come on the boat if she wants. if so get her to email me

[windsurf247]

Sounds like a fun event. As an FYI, I did the island crossing in LaVentana this winter which was about 32 km. Most finished in 50-80 minutes. It's amazing how quickly you can cover that much ground. Distance wise, it seems like a marathon but time wise, it's just like a regular session.
Pasta has done the crossing too so should be able to provide some info.
Have fun

[Martin]

Terrific Greg!
Glad you can join in.
m