WANTED - Mentors ...

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nlerch
nlerch
WA
11 posts
WA, 11 posts
3 Jan 2006 10:13pm
Hi,

I'm new to kitesurfing and have recently browsed this forum quite regularly to get some ideas about the sport. One of the discussions was about whether or not to have lessons and the quality of these lessons (Pelican Point ...). I've had my basic lessons with Ian Young and I must say, I am very satisfied with it (one-on-one lessons!). Now is the time for me to get out there and do it on my own. One of the participants in these forums remarked that he didn't need lessons because he has a MENTOR. Coming from a profession where 'mentoring' is part of your training, I actually think, that this is a very good idea.

Therefore I am looking for a mentor/mentors for me and my friend to get us kick-started into this exciting sport:

My name is Nick, I am 44, married and of european breed. I use a Underground 142 FXL board and 2 Flysurfer kites (Maniac 5.0 and Warrior 9.3).

My mate, Ian, 36, is married, one-and-a-half kids, has had his introductory lessons here in WA but also in St.Kilda (VIC) and is looking to buy his equipment.

We are two very easy going guys who would very much like to buddy up with someone who can keep an eye on us fledgling kite surfers and is willing to pass his/ her knowledge on to us.

What's in for you? Meet two nice chaps, maybe find two new friends and be sure, that once we are up and running, we will carry on the 'mentoring program' with others new in the sport!

Cheers

Nick
kiterpilot
kiterpilot
WA
249 posts
WA, 249 posts
3 Jan 2006 10:29pm
That sounds like a realy cool idea Nick... However I see only one small problem with it. It would mean the mentor has to give up some of his time to help advance you along.

Your in the fremantle area arnt you ?, I would suggest you take a trip down to woodmans point and check it out. The guys & girls are realy friendly there just as they are everywhere in this sport. Talk to others and introduce your selves, you will find more than one mentor down there, you'll find many riders willing to help out with little bits here and there...

Stick to the south and western bays as these are learner friendly. If your on the southbay, be cautious launching and landing infront of the car park area. Everyone does it there, just dont stand around and fly your kite there if your a newbie.

Once you enter the water, drift down wind a little out of the main run that the experienced rider take. We're good enough to get out of your way, not the other way around.

Most of the guys & girls on here kite there, it can get quite busy but sit & watch to sus it out before inflating your kite for session.

best of luck, see you on the water...
nlerch
nlerch
WA
11 posts
WA, 11 posts
3 Jan 2006 11:06pm
Thanks for your reply, kiterpilot.

And ... YES! That's the drawback of the system. But on the positive side, you probably wouldn't have that many dorks floating about in the landing/ launching areas. But then, no more bitching about newbies on the forums.

But you see, my idea is not having someone nurse me around, but just keep an eye on me and help out, if I seem in trouble. Of course, most people in the sport are friendly and react positively on being approached and talked to. The 'mentoring system' just takes this one tiny little step further.

But be sure to see me at Woodman's point soon ...

Nick
poor relative
poor relative
WA
9106 posts
WA, 9106 posts
3 Jan 2006 11:12pm

I think regardless if you know people or not kiters keep an eye out for each other, if theres a drama generally someone will help out if they can.

Think its most important though that you know the basics of self rescue as its not always poss for others to get to you to help.

Keep a look out for social events, and come along drink beer and have a laugh, you soon meet people.
ratlizard
ratlizard
WA
44 posts
WA, 44 posts
4 Jan 2006 2:13pm
Nick

I like your idea. I live in South Perth and normally go down to woodies when its > 15knts, work permitting. Ive been kiting for about 3-4 yrs I suppose (although you wouldn't know it when I'm on the water!!) would be happy to help you guys out. Don't get me wrong, I still make mistakes but I understand its a bit hard to learn on your own.

Have just moved to WA from Vic, so would be good to meet some other kiters. I'm 33 with a wife who lets me get on the water a fair bit.

I have a fluro green/black RRD kite and drive a current model white falcon. Why don't you give me a call when you are heading to woodies. If the winds up, I will probably be there or on my way.

Dan 0429 103 031

Ben De Jonge
Ben De Jonge
WA
819 posts
WA, 819 posts
4 Jan 2006 3:14pm
Hey Nick,

The boys are right. Just rock up to Woodies and have a chat to people, there's a fiendly core crew of guys there.

I also ride there most week nights after work (from 5 -7ish) and often on the w/edns too if I don't head to different spots like Safety Bay. I fly a Blue/Orange/White Gaastra 12m and a Grey/Black Naish 9m.

Feel free to come say g'day, more than happy to give you some pointers on the basics (cos that's all I know about)

Or gimme a call if you need to.

Ben 0411 699 011.
nlerch
nlerch
WA
11 posts
WA, 11 posts
6 Jan 2006 3:41pm
Thanks guys for all the support ...
We have decided to give Woodies a go, for a number or reasons, the main one being that there is a lot of space and its not very close to roads and kite-eating gum trees ...

So looking forward to catch up with you guys and for your tips ...

Nick
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