Not too much surf on the weekend so I talked the wife in to driving me up to Palmy so I could do the downwinder again.
Wind and swell was pretty much the same as last time but without too much lift from the elements it meant you really couldn't rest up. Caught a few runners but all up it was a lot of hard work and I felt a bit on the crook side after it was done. Must remember to drink more during the paddle.
I was paddling the Starboard Point 14'8" which felt like it made the best of the conditions. First real time I used the rudder system and it was much easier to work than you'd think.
I also used some windsurfing techo stuff and strapped a GPS to my arm for this trip. Best 2 sec speed was 10.8 knots on one of the better runs. Looking forward to seeing what's possible with a strong breeze and big swell.
The distance I paddled was 17.4 km and time beach to beach was 1hr 55min.
Sam.
Nice...Can you use the rudder while surfing a runner to try and stay on it?
It looks like you need a Camelbak.
DJ
Wooo - that's a long way. Two hours - that seems really quick to me - well done. Maybe one day I'll be able to join you. I think I would 'Sucker Cam' a drink bottle just in front of my grip and have a swig on that every now and then.
I was thinking the 2 can foam dome might be the go. Also keeps the sun off.
I mainly used the rudder to line up for runs by redirecting a bit. Always trying to find the the steeper bits without easing of the paddling power by switching sides.
Sam.
You are ready to go for the summer now Sam. You will have to give us a report when you do this in a good solid noreaster.
Have you thought about a Newport to Newport run? Paddle up the Pittwater side before the sea breeze kicks in too strong, then down the ocean side in the sea breeze.
Steve
