Apprentice windsurfer

[Rob]

Hi,

Nice to have met some of you the at the Plough on Thursday last week.

Over the last few weeks I’ve gone from never having been on a windsurfing board to becoming totally hooked and owning my own.

Probably not the best time of year with regards to weather, and it would probably help if I were a bit younger but regardless, I intend to get as much time on the water as I can to practice the little I’ve learnt, from the tuition that I’ve had so far.

If you happen to see me floundering at either of the remaining Nomad day trips, any free instruction, advice or banter would be much appreciated. Failing that a phone call to the appropriate authority with details of where I was last sighted and the direction I was heading.

And finally thanks to Martin for solving the problem of my not being able to post messages, Spelling Cow now disabled.

[Sue]

Hi Rob
Not sure where you practising your new skills under your apprenticeship, but a few of us sail at Axbridge which is your side of Bristol, and may be a suitable training ground. Slight problem is that unfortunately there is no water there at the moment - hopefully Bristol Water will do something about that soon!!
See you around.
Sue

[Rob]

Hi Sue,

The lessons I’ve had so far have been over at Llandegfedd which I’ve really enjoyed despite the wind being a little bit gusty and changeable each time.

I’ll definitely have to give some serious thought to joining Axbridge given that it’s just down the road for me.

As with most things there seem to be pros & cons for both, day tickets and no weeds at Llandegfedd or the convenience of Axbridge which apparently benefits from the predominantly SW winds.

Hopefully I’ll get to chat with a few members like yourself and I’ll then be better informed as to what to do.

Rob

[Sue]

Hi Rob

You should give Axbridge a try when the water returns - it's fairly safe (land all round and rescue cover). It must be so much more convenient for you. There is no formal tuition, but you will find plenty of helpful bods who will be willing to give you tips/help with your rigging if needed etc.

It's excellent in W winds - but in fact is sailable NW round to E (but west is best ). I'd avoid it in a N wind as the wind is offshore, and you get a wind shadow at the launch spot from Cheddar hills behind, so it can be difficult to get yourself back to shore.

You can sail a few times as a non-member (£10 per visit) - which would allow you to suss it out. Changing rooms and hot(ish) showers are useful in these colder months. But unfortunately there is no water at the moment!!

Sue

[Rob]

Thanks for the info Sue it‘s much appreciated and as soon as the water rises to an appropriate level I’ll be there.

Rob