In November of 2004 my friend Massimo made the almost outrageous suggestion that we sail over Thanksgiving weekend (I was strictly May-October in those days.) In 2005 I became an April-December man. In 2006 I sailed a freak warm January day, though in truth I expanded my horizons to March-December. It's only been in the last few months that I've realized that Long Island is a great windsurfing location year round...it's just a winter sport when it's greatest! Compare it to skiing, not waterskiing when thinking about comfort.
The last three days of winter have been outstanding...a beautiful 4.7 day at Sebonac Inlet on Sunday, Monday's "gentle ocean day" (according to John V,) setting the cold aside I'd give it four out of five stars on the Giampaolo system for "really fun" on a 5.5,and on the last day of winter, today's return to Sebonac Inlet, 5.5 on a westerly. As the tide started going out, the waves began rolling in, and it was just playful enough (who wants to fall in 39 degree water?) Also, I came closer to a puffin than I ever have, when one made a 180 degree turn into the wind only 50 feet in front of me, appearing to hover for a moment in the 20 knot blow before rocketing off upwind (they can do 50, thank you very much.) There's no wind in the forecast tomorrow, and that's good because I need the rest. It's also a good time to think about what I've learned over the winter:
*If you haven't sailed the spot before, ask for sail size recommendations (aside from the usual safety questions.) I'm a good judge of wind at the spots I know, but if it weren't for Jonathan Ford, John V and Scott, I'd have rigged wrong pretty much every time I sailed with them.
*Below 45 degrees, the focus is on keeping your hands warm (gloves work to a point, but rest often and do the crazy arm swinging dance.) Below 35 degrees, keeping your face warm becomes a challenge (I like Dermatone better than the neoprene ski mask I bought.)
*Watch, listen and learn. I've gotten more tips both offered directly and just by watching some more seasoned sailors over this winter than I have in years. Thanks all around to Jason, John, Jonathan, Scott, Bill, Fisherman and others.
*Bring a friend. I thought Jeff was going to tell me I was on my own when I said "we won't have REALLY sailed in the cold until our sails ice up from frozen spray" but he joined the madness and made it more fun.
A great winter. Still, Spring has arrived, and not a moment too soon. Here's to waving goodbye to winter's cold.
(one of Jeff's photos)
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