Windsurfing and Kiteboarding

Jul-22-2009 By Courtney

b19vehicles_water181Windsurfing offers an exciting ride for beginners to experts anytime the wind blows above 5 knots. Windsurfing is surfing’s modified cousin but it isn’t an easier or less dramatic activity by any means. The sport offers incredible aerial opportunities for those skilled, and brave, enough to pull them off.
A beginner can usually get started on a larger board with a larger sail and light to moderate winds. As the winds increase, the level of complexity increases and the need for a smaller board and sail become apparent. But beginners should stick to the mild conditions until getting the hang of the activity.

Kiteboarding is an incredible, new sport that has emerged in the last couple of decades. It involves a board similar to a wakeboard and a 8-12 meter kite flying 100ft overhead. A kiteboarder charges on a stiff windRiders manipulate the kite to gain speed, change direction and catch air. The activities is almost poetic as kiteboarders seem to float into the air almost in slow motion.
Kiteboarding is not the most intuitive activity. Controlling the kite is akin to shadow boxing. Pushing the right had forward and pulling the left back guides the kite toward the left. The natural move made by many is to turn the handle like a steering wheel, however this only leads to frustration and a downed kite. My experiences with kiteboarding have led me to believe that instruction is a necessity to ensure a good time. Otherwise, prepare for a long day of falling and frustration.
Belize Offers windsurfing and kiteboarding activities at many of the larger resorts. In San Pedro, at the Caribbean Villas Hotel, Sail Sports Belize offers both as well as sailing opportunities. They’ll serve interested parties who aren’t staying at the Villas providing rentals and lessons. There is no indication if they are affiliated with the International Kiteboarding Association, though.*

*The International Kiteboarding Association manages kiteboarding affairs worldwide and offers members convenient access to gear when they travel. IKA membership usually expedites one’s rental of gear and subsequent trip into the water. While it isn’t necessary to rent from an affiliated business, it is recommended as this sport can be dangerous and proper instruction, equipment maintenance and adherence to safety is critical to avoiding injuries.

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