I've had a couple of lessons in February but haven't had the confidence to go out alone. It'd be great if anyone is able to help me gain the confidence to hit the waves whenever i like and have a friend to develop our techniques together.

Little about me, I'm a 23 yo guy from Hampton Park so would looking to be hitting beaches on the SE side but I'd be will to travel where ever. I have a full sized kite and board too.

Please post or inbox me thanks

Cheers,
Tom

Hi Tricky, I totally understand the nerves. We've all been there and it's completely appropriate you'd want someone to keep an eye. Unfortunately, the reality of your request is you're asking a lot of fellow kiters, as essentially, you're asking them to give up a window of opportunity to keep an eye on you. The more you do this sport, the more precious a good session is.

When I was in a similar position, my kite school at St K were milling around and they kindly helped me launched and kept an eye on me for the first 3mins and that's all that was needed.

I'd recommend you get yourself down to St. Kilda (there are many learners in St. K, and it's a deep beach, so you're more likely to find people sympathetic to your cause) pay your dues (of helping others launch and land your kite) and when there is an opportunity, ask someone to help you launch, explaining the situation.

Just practice launching and landing until the initial anxiety is reduced. Then practice body dragging. This will give you confidence and assurance that it is you, not the kite, that is in control.

Remember, if it gets sketchy, release the bar, the kite should depower. If you really freak out, Quick Release.

Good luck!