My first introduction to the sport of Kiteboarding was the summer of 2015 on a visit to South Carolina. “I want to do that!” I exclaimed, staring bright-eyed at a man surrounded by brilliant shades of Carolina blue. He was flying a large kite that pulled him through the air, landing, and skipping across undulating Atlantic waves. I am an adventurous soul and when I see something new and amazing—I have to get me some of dat fun!
I watched him, lying in wait, like a bird of prey, ready to attack him on shore with questions. The Kiteboarding wonder turned out to be a patient, kind instructor of the sport. I was so eager for an induction, but unfortunately I would have to wait.
Like with most of my aspirations, life stepped in the way of my dreams of Kiteboarding for a while, but suddenly I was offered a primed opportunity to go to St. Croix with my daughter and I grabbed it with both hands…
It is now January of 2017 on the final day of three fun filled lessons with Bill Kraft, Kiteboarding extraordinaire.
- Lesson one—Meet The Kite—during our first session Bill introduced us to the kite, the harness, how to navigate the changing winds that will propel you to and fro across the water, and how to control your kite with some precision. We also practiced setting all the equipment up and breaking it back down for proper storage.
- Lesson two—Meet The Water—during our second session we let the kite drag us on our bellies, like superman, through the water to practice control of the kite and holding it steady, harnessing the island breeze at 12, 10, and 2 in the clear azure sky.
- Lesson three—Meet The Board—sounds easy enough, right? Wrong. When Bill does anything on the water he makes it look as though he was born there, and it’s as easy as a stroll across land, but when I attempted…well, let’s just say it was less than graceful.
There were a few glitches in scheduling lessons due to less than ideal wind conditions and Mother Nature bows to no one. Bill is an aficionado, and I hope one day to be as wise, to know when the conditions are ripe for a successful run.
If you are interested in taking lessons contact Bill Kraft — [email protected]
I Love Water Sports! Be sure to sign up below—Don’t miss out on my continued series—I intend to delve deeper into the sport of Kiteboarding and give insider travel tips about St. Croix.
On the last day of my journey, I sit here, coffee in hand, looking out at a serene view of the warm island hills and water of St. Croix. I am reveling in this fleeting earthly celebration, my life, a grateful meditation over time spent with my child and the nature that spawned me, fully equipped with the necessary skills to take on my new passion.
What sparks your soul? Tell me about it in the comment section below. ?
Hey, nice article.
Thank you so much for reading, Paul ?