Kitesurfari supported this SCKA event by obtaining city permits and providing 3 excellent instructors (Carter Thomas, Bart Gaska and Al Shuton).
Roberto from 7 Sins
Carter Thomas (instructor), Al Shuton (instructor), ?, Francis Hu (SCKA president)
SCKA members with Mark Sandoval, the director of the parks, recreation and marine bureau for Long Beach
Bart Gaska, Dimitrii Korionoff, Francis Hu, Mark Sandavol, Al Navas, Roberto, Carter Thomas.
--- Kitesurfing clinics ---
Requirements: This is not for teaching beginners how to kite. You must have taken at least a water lesson and know how to rig your own equipment, can comfortably fly your kite. For the on water skills clinics, you must be able to ride in both directions and have excellent kite control. Clinics are 45 minutes each offered 3 times starting (1:00, 1:45, 2:30 & 3:15). You can rotate through the various clinics.
The 1st clinic, taught by Jim Corbett, was wind/water/kite selection considerations and kiting rules and guidelines.
Here you will learn about the typical weather conditions in Southern California including wind strength, kite size, wind directions, and when you should not go out.
Also discussed are local kiting rules and how to kite in crowded areas such as Belmont Shores.
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A second clinic was land simulation of water self rescue. Here Carter Thomas is demonstrating self rescue techniques including depowering a downed kite,
safely wrapping up the lines and then using the kite as a sail to bring you back to shore.
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Bart Gaska is showing the students how to inspect and maintain your equipment to prevent problems. Students learn what to do in case of equipment failure. Learn how the safety system works on your kite & bar and how to activate them. Practice letting go of the bar and activating your safety. Also test your quick releases under load to make sure they work. Layout your bar/lines and have your harness ready for this clinic
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