I was by the windsurfing shop yesterday and saw people there who take the winter off from windsurfing. It can only mean that the mainstream season is close upon us, which can only mean it's time to start thinking about equipment, which can only mean it's time for a swap meet! At least that's how I see it. I love swap meets.
Check out the "Events" list on the Windsurfing Hamptons website for details. I'll be selling an 84 liter Naish waveboard and a 430 mast (Fiberspar 70% carbon quicktip).
One reason to stop by (even if you think you don't need to) is a little event tucked away on the Windsurfing Hamptons calendar (I swear, I see Jon Ford all the time but he doesn't tell me stuff!) On August 10th there's a notation for Vintage Racing. The Peconic Puffin will dedicate a future post to the particulars, but the essence of Vintage Racing is windsurfing on ancient equipment (ideally pre 1990 longboards) in light winds. If you've never done this it's surprisingly fun, and anyone who can uphaul can participate. But you'll need an old board. More details to come...
Great, I was just about to throw out a 12 ft behemoth that was our first board that no one has rode in years. The kids call it the Aircraft Carrier.
Posted by: Bill Doutney | April 14, 2008 at 04:56 PM
I love sailing my 20 year old longboard. Interestingly, even though my Go Board was marketed as a versatile, beginner-friendly board, the old F2 is much more reliable. I did an extensive comparison of the F2 with a Kona board at my blog. Longboards really are fun to sail.
http://www.hudsonwindsurfer.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Ian Berger | April 16, 2008 at 10:37 AM
I am interested in some cheap gear, never owned anything, always rented. Also a rack for my car....
Any tips on where to sail near Eastport, I'll be there for the summer?
Thanks,
Daisy
Posted by: Daisy | May 01, 2008 at 02:05 PM
Daisy, you should definately go to the swap meet. You may want to call Jonathan Ford at Windsurfing Hamptons in advance (631-283-9463) as he can discuss your needs and may be able to line up some used equipment for you in advance.
As far as sailing near Eastport, take a look at the Long Island Windsurfing Map which is a compilation of locations used by locals. Harts Cove is one launch nearby, though there may well be other launches on Moriches Bay. This would also be good to discuss with Jon Ford.
Posted by: michael | May 01, 2008 at 08:56 PM