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Forecast was for 20mph winds so I worked all morning and took off about 2pm for Bird Island. When I got there everyone was on big sails, though I expected to be in for a 5.6. But, seeing how they were doing, I rigged the 6.5 and put it on the Screamer, figuring that I wouldn't be milking a plane all day.
I was right! I felt like I was having some technique problems so I read up on it. The advice helped a lot. Mostly, I just shortened my harness lines (again) and that made a world of difference. They are unbelievably short, to me, but it works. Also, a footstrap repair I made on the Screamer held up without any problems.
I don't know if it was just experience or lighter wind, but I felt so much more in control on both tacks while sailing today. I concentrated on better technique and keeping the board flat. I also made sure I committed to the harness and bent my arms. I often have straight arms and tend to use them to support my weight more than I should. I don't use them to support all of my weight, but I shouldn't really need them at all, but for minor steering adjustments.
I came home happy today. More wind is forecast later this week, too. I was out in shorts and a rash guard shirt for three hours and wasn't a bit chilled, not even close. This town is great. Decent wind most of the time, and warm -- even into late October, with no signs of it letting up.
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