Spring 2008 Newsletter
Another new year is already well underway. So be
sure to renew your South Padre Island Windsurf and Kiteboarding
Association membership post haste, if you haven’t already.
Bay access is becoming harder and harder to come by these days,
so help the association fight the good fight for your right to ride
the wind here on SPI.
This fall was pretty amazing, in the number of kiteboarders, as
well as the wind and weather. The north flat was the launching pad
for 30 to 60+ kiters on any given day. With lows in the 60s and
highs in the 80s throughout November it was a classic fall at the
North Flats. The wind did a little bit of everything, with prevailing
S-SE wind blowing 15 to 30 for days on end. When the southerlies
met their makers, fronts pushed though deep south Texas with North
winds that were a force to behold.
Several seasoned kiteboarder got more than they bargained for in
the excessive winds of these frontal onslaughts. It was nothing
serious, just bruised and scared. Sometimes the better part of valor
is to know when not to go. Common sense can go a long way to make
sure we enjoy another day. So far lady luck has been good to most
all, but there have been many close calls.
Follow the rules. The kiteboarding area is always downwind of the
windsurfing area. If the wind is south we’re to the north,
if the wind is north we’re to the south. Kiteboarders are
not to park closer than 200 feet from the waterline. Vehicles are
the only fixed solid objects on the beach. Keep them out of the
way. Launch your kite toward the water, that’s where you’re
going. No excuses. Monkey see, monkey do. Foil kites that are launched
straight downwind, should launch downwind of the principle kite
area. If you are a beginner, or are teaching a beginner, (non-school)
please stay well downwind.
The North Flat on South Padre Island is the single most amazing
combination of wind, water and land in all of North America. It
is not our right but an agreement with the owners, that grants or
access to the Laguna Madre. As a member it is our duty to be good
stewards of the property. Lead by example, share your knowledge,
teach don’t preach, safety, safety, safety.
Look forward to riding with you all in a great 08, thanks!
