Wind Journal for Berend de Boer -- Monday July 04, 2005 -- See All

6th session in 2005
Sailed at Auckland, Eastern Beach
Wind from the NE (knots)
        lulls: 8
        average: 11
        gusts: 16
Rated a 2 of 10

Board: Starboard Carve 99 2004 Wood
Sail: NP Solo 5.0 2005
Fin: Drake Freeride 320
Suit: XCel 4/3 infinity x-zip.
Air Temperature: 15 C

Bought a full wetsuite as the water is getting colder. And that did work, didn't feel a thing. It's a wetsuite without a zip at the back. Works beautifully. That will keep me warm during winter and spring I'm sure.

I didn't windsurf though. Once I even thought that I wouldn't make it unto my new Carve 99 at all. Just couldn't waterstart, not enough wind. But after half an hour I finally made it and windsurfed for a 100 metres. After which the wind dropped and I fell of the board.

Getting back was another struggle. I couldn't waterstart, not with all the waves hitting. The waves weren't high, but very powerful. Anyway, managed to get back, and after a while could make one more turn. But that was it and it was getting dark, so I walk my equipment back over the beach.

The biggest issue probably was my wife's Solo 5.0. A very fluffy sail, no power. I didn't want to rig my 7.2 Saber as I thought the 5.0 was enough. But I clearly need a windmeter as guessing windstrength isn't one of my strengths it seems. I hope I have the money for a Saber 6.2 soon (and 430 mast sigh). That should make things easier.

Anyway, lesson learned is that I shouldn't try to learn how to waterstart my Carve 99 in waves. Next time should go to Lake Pupuke or try the sheltered area of Bucklands Beach.


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