Beginner needs help at 3rd.

[Mickey]

Hi,
Is there anyone out there willing to help out a beginner at 3rd? I want to practice in Alameda, but the wind's died out there. 3rd looks so intimidating that when I'm there, I chickened out everytime. I've taken lesson (KWS), bodydragged in Alameda, have gear (12 & 17 Cabrinha kites), haven't been able to get on the board yet, but came close a few times.

Mickey

[Guest]

Hey Mickey,
If yesterday is an indication, the season is almost over: the water is getting colder, the winds are dying earlier in the day, and the wind direction is more off-shore at third.
If I were you, I'd pick a day when the wind direction seemed good, and would just rig your 12M. If you pick a low tide day, you'll be even better off.
I like rigging at the upper launch, and coming in at the lower launch. Don't miss the lower beach or you'll end up in the rocks.
Continue doing bodydrags. Practice water relaunches. Don't venture too far from shore, and practice your self-rescues. Practice having your kite in hand by the time you hit the sand/rocks. I'd recommend wearing a PFD. IMO, it's easier to learn all this without the board, it's one more thing to manage while in the water.
IMO, these skills are more important than getting up on the board.
-bric
p.s. fear is a good thing... take baby steps to boost your confidence.

[Scanman]

I went to 3rd for the first time last Saturday and I just started this season. I hooked up with someone who was familiar with the spot and he showed me the ropes (Thanks Bryan!). I was a little scared at first, but everyone was really helpful there, just ask lots of questions if you're not sure. I ended up past the lower beach, and came up on one of the ramps by the rocks during high tide.
Just make sure if you miss the lower beach to drop your kite early enough so that you can wind up your lines and grab your kite before it hits the rocks.

Good luck!
Joe

[Sonny]

I'm there almost everyday, come find me in the parking lot and I can give you some pointers about 3rd. Third is not that bad, a lot of us learned at 3rd.