6 categories

Peel Inlet, WA, AU

Isonic 107, Overdrive 6.2, Fo33 weedy.

After driving around for a bit looking for the right rigging area google maps directed me down some little road through scrub and thinking i was definately heading in the wrong direction i emerged to a carpark full of sailors cars. sweet spot nice clean water plenty of wind and lots of crew to ask advice. 

After short discussions with Mike and Stroppo I rigged the 6.2 and with the big board under foot and a pretty average weedy plugged into it, hit the water and across the much talked about boat channel, some nice chop there. As I approached the other side I wondered how shallow it was getting so gybed and immediately hit the bottom. Had to walk 50m and then drag sail another 150 to get out of it. Finally all clear and with other sailors coming across i was able to hook in behind them and follow.

Strop appeared and told me to follow him from a run to get the lay of the land so pinched up wind trying to point as high and with as much speed as him and failing dismally at it. So after tacking downwind of his gybe I hooked in behind him and watched him burn into the distance. Fail again. after catching up and with a quick word and a cheery "good luck" from the big guy ringing in my ears I headed off to give it a go and proceeded to have a great time for about 40 minutes. Some nice gusts coming through. 

Only problem was the kit didn't feel right was fighting a bit of front footstrap issues and the fin wasn't up to the challenge and probably a bit big for  the combo. Anyway after a solid bearaway and feeling rather happy the front foot issue come home to roost.

A massive off as foot came out and over the front to a shuddering touch down. I bent in ways I really shouldn't anymore and upon hearing a snap feared for a split second it was me... no not me my kit. boom looked at odd angle. Turned out it was only inhaul rope.

Tried to re-rig but was struggling and so to the rescue comes Stroppo and Mike with offers of rope. THANKS guys, Appreciated the help and rope which had me up and going again. 

Mojo had been knocked out of me by this stage so headed in to lick my wounds and live to fight another day.

What a great spot it is and Liptons and I have unfinished business. I can see the potential you speak of but in my sailing gumbiness I made a meal of it. still always next time. On a good note I got some bargains at the local swap meet today.

Nice to see you lads again and meet Roger the swine and Sludger. I think thats right isn't it.

Can't wait to get back down there just need to rest a bit.........

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Melville Beach, WA, AU