Kite Boarder / Boat Collision...

[dwaynej]

In New Zealand... Bad news...

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/9759034 ... -collision

[Ron]

Wondering how you can hit a boat standing still...

[dwaynej]

Wondering how you can hit a boat standing still...

Sounds like mixed messages...

The crew had tried to avoid a collision by stopping their boat when they saw the kitesurfer losing control, and the kitesurfer tried to turn north to avoid collision too, Mulcahy said. However, the man slammed into the front starboard side of the boat and fell into the water.

[More Waves Please]

Even more confusing is the fact that these Kiwi surf boats are 5-man row boats (4 rowers plus a tiller). No motors. Kiter under power vs. a less maneuverable row boat that was likely bashing through the surf or trying to come in without broaching. Sounds like a very unskilled kiter or one who screwed up in close proximity to the boat.

If you don't know what these boats look like, here's a photo & story about races a few years ago:

http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=47715