Kiting Alaska

It was a beautiful, sunny day with a fresh 20mph wind blowing in over an outgoing tide which was kicking up really nice waves in the river mouth. Quinn had called around and rallied everyone for a session and Darren and I joined him for a quick sail.
 

This summer in our corner of Southeast Alaska has so far been one of the windiest in local memory. We've had 3-4 kitable days almost every week for the last couple of months. Some days have been TOO windy!

In the last couple of months I have had to apply numerous patches to two of my kites due to a bit of sand or grit getting into the main bladder. While it only takes about an hour to make repair such leaks, it is disheartening to have to remove the bladder, find the miniscule holes and repair them (and hope you have found them all!) I thought it might be useful to share what I have learned about kite bladder repair in Alaska:

Remove your bladder on a clean surface (spruce needles only add to the problem)

May 1st, 2010

April was an interesting month in Haines. I was able to start the month in the water on April 2nd, fitted a few water sessions in during the month and was able to close it off with another fun water session yesterday.

Meanwhile, up on the pass, there have been glorious conditions on the flats. The snow is melting fast, though, and there are lots of avalanches and point releases occurring. I have personally put away the winter gear and and am itching for more summer breezes.

March 3rd, 2010

February 17th, 2010

What a bummer this winter is turning out to be….at least around sea level in Haines.

January 14th, 2010

December 28th, 2009

December 1st, 2009

Many Alaskan kiters extend their summers or take a winter break in warm waters. This year, my family had the good fortune to head down to Mexico where we enjoyed warm waters and gentle breezes. The wind was a bit light in general, but we did manage to squeeze a few fun sessions in.

October 31st, 2009