Stinson Beach Safety

[pthorner]

I just got a call from one of the head lifeguards at Stinson Beach and they have concerns about kitesurfers recently sailing into National Park waters and in and among surfers and swimmers. Last year I went out with Kenny Hartz and we talked safety with the rangers and showed them the gear and how to deal with loose kiting gear. For all of last year, the local kitesurfers have been great about staying well clear of other water users in the National Park swim and surf areas and this is my first call I've had. If you are a regular out there, please help educate the newer users. If your new to the spot (or any spot) ask around and get an idea about what is acceptable at the site and what hazards might exist. The NPS can institute a ban but the rangers have really wanted to avoid a formal ban which allows for kitesurfers to use some of the waters in or near park when there are not swimmers and surfers nearby. Remember, even if you think you aren't ever going to hit anyone, other people in the water have a right to feel safe and not wonder if they might get hit or not. It's always smart to leave plenty of room for margin of error.

Good Riding

Peter Thorner
San Francisco Boardsailing Association

[moblvet]

It was that way from launch and downwind, local and newbies, knowing their ability, doing carving 180's around waders and children, scaring them.
At same time, a 38 year old windsurfer, maybe not knowing his abilities, launched from Bolinas, and was medivac'd out past Duxbury reef up the line to an Alameda based CG helicopter.
I've done water sports/lived here now 30 years, seems a tipping point is near, especially for kiting.
Need to somehow bring common sense/awareness of our kiting surroundings to everyone, else paradise lost.

[Greg]

Gosh that is a real bummer to hear! I hope local kiters taking action can take care of the problem.... I've never kited Stinsen but feel ANY launch lost is really a bad sign for EVERY spot.... Having the NATIONAL PARK SERVICE upset with kiters (EVEN ONE!) ANYWHERE is very bad ju-ju!!!
I want to hear of any and all updates, Thank you in advance!
Gregory Boyington