The thing about windsurfing and photos.

So here’s the thing about good windsurfing photos of your self.

When you first start out…It’s a novelty. So you spend the money for a new Go Pro, or Soloshot.

 Photo by Jillixir

You take the time to set up that Clew View, Mast, Boom, or harness mount.

Or you get that “New Girlfriend”. The one who actually stays with you at the beach once the wind arrives. I mean ‘WOW’. The day goes from a beautiful sunny day at the beach…to,,, sand blowing so hard it could and does peal the paint off your truck. Just standing at the beach is uncomfortable. But, she loves you, so she stays, and she takes pictures! God bless her.

 Photo by Jillixir Marie:30 to 40+ knot day

30 knots.  Photo by Jillixir

Then, you move on to a new girlfriend, your girlfriend learns to windsurf, or you fall in love, and get married. You pick it. But she’s not taking photos of you anymore. Even if she does come out with you, she is smart enough to go hide in the van once the windspeed hits 20+.

This is why I am so appreciative when someone does snap a photo of me windsurfing. Even a bad one. [Meaning I’m sailing poorly.] The photo is great.

Me chasing the squall line.  Photo by Jillixir

Over the years various folk have documented our exploits on the water. Steve D, Blue Harbor Cat, Phil Gray, Jeff S, Lauralee, the rare magazine or newspaper. 

So it is for this reason that I’d like to thank Jill Illixer of “the Long Island Sun Chasers” group. As a windsurfer herself, she understands what she is shooting. So for the first time in a while, I can share some gratuitous pic’s of my self. 

Oh vanity…

 Photo by Jillixir

Busy day on the water  Photo by Jillixir

great to see so many sailors.  Photo by Jillixir

Honorable mention has to go to Iggy: “the Drone King”, Mike B: “The Professional”, Jon S: “Mast Mount Master”.

Thanks guys

Still gusting to 40,  Photo by Jillixir

Gilgo clean up

Had a great day at the LIBAG Beach Cleanup

http://libeach.blogspot.com/2018/10/760-pounds.html

Holgate Jetty By Iggy

Wishing you a fast recovery my friend. Glad you have the sweet drone footage to share with us.



Holgate Jetty  LBI, NJ from Hudson River Rat on Vimeo.

Follow Iggy on Vimeo.

https://vimeo.com/user4861710

It just is.

Let me preface this by saying that I am not trying to be a contrarian.

It’s just that I have been bothered or troubled by peoples perception of watermen my whole life.
Bum, dude, zen, chill, agro, extreme, STOP!

Some of us are just connected to the ocean. For some genetic reason…I need it.

Safety and sanity are relative. And I totally understand that certain activities may not appeal to every individual in same way.
Me personally…The people I know.. We need to be in the ocean. It just is.

I’m not a risk taker. I don’t like to be pushed out of my comfort zone. I don’t engage in “extreme sports”. I am not an “adrenaline junky”. I'm not a "daredevil".

I am the opposite; I like to be in control.

I train, I practice, I meticulously make sure my gear, my body, my skills, and my mind are ready.

Actually, I probably spend more time thinking about windsurfing than actually windsurfing.

Below, please find Iggy’s drone footage of a sweet GSB Day.


https://vimeo.com/276418395

Heck Park 4K from Hudson River Rat on Vimeo.

Some excellent pics from Jill Marie, from a few weeks ago. I'm on the blue Severne Blade. 

 "upwind Mike" lays one down. Also by Jill Marie

Happy and Healthy New Year for us all.

I am forwarding a passage from the NYS DEC’s Saltwater Fishing & Boating Newsletter.

This is important for two reasons…

1. When Windsurfing on a Sound, Bay, Lake, or Estuary; NYS treats a Windsurfer as if it is a boat. That’s right we are being grouped right in with Kayakers, and SUP’ers,  So the lifejacket, PFD issue is a big deal right now.
2. The good news is that the NYS Park have decided to treat actual Windsurfing, i.e. Wave Sailing in the Ocean like Surfing. 

Cold Water Boating Safety

Enjoying the marine environment doesn’t have to stop when the warm weather ends! As the temperature begins to drop, fish and marine mammals are stirring around our local waters in preparation of winter. This change of seasons offers ample opportunities for fishing as well as wildlife viewing from our shores or even closer, from the water!

Boating during the cold weather can be exciting but it’s necessary to take extra precaution while on the water. Review some suggested guidance on how to prepare for cold weather boating:

• Check the forecast and be aware of potentially hazardous marine conditions;

• Wear multiple layers of clothing and bring extra clothing in case someone gets wet or goes overboard;

• Make sure to eat and stay hydrated. Bring additional food and water on board.

• Wear sunglasses. The sun’s glare can be just as strong in the winter as in the summer;

• Make a float plan and inform a land-based person about your plan, then stick to the plan! This is especially important for solo boaters;

• Be sure to carry a communication device, such as a VHF Radio or cellphone, and signaling device, and secure them in a waterproof container or bag; and

• Most important--wear a life jacket!

In cold water, you can succumb to hypothermia in a matter of minutes, and having the proper equipment and resources can help prevent a dangerous situation. If an emergency arises, contact the local Coast Guard Station over your VHF Radio or dial 9-1-1 on your cellphone to contact local emergency personnel.

For information about coastal access, visit Saltwater Fishing or contact 631-444-0430.