1/23/08 Decided to take the Delfin out despite the threatening sky to get ready for the '08 surf season. Now, I consider this a kayaking day even though Matt Broze classifies the Delfin as a 'surf shoe'! If that's the case, its not what Ed Sullivan would call "a really big shoe"--more of a size 10 while I'm a size 13. Loading up, the wind was already howling. Based on my latest success and optimism, I decided just to bring my wetsuit top--a decision aided by the fact that I had left my farmer john waded up in a crate since my last outing and I couldn't think of bringing myself to don the cold wet rubber. The sky was filled with various shades of gray clouds and I was surprised by the amount of chop I found at my usually protected launch site. Looking up, I could see a still bright sun hazy beyond the clouds, but they would let no heat through. I hoped that the paddle to Pirate's Cove would warm me ready for rolling, but the wind came down the channel unencumbered and I was quickly drenched by the wave spray. At the CG station, one gale flag was flying. I was confident in my chances of rolling the Delfin, but wondered if I had the resolve to make that first capsize. I had hoped the rocks of PC would protect me a bit from the wind and at least make it seem less cold, but no such luck. After a few deep braces and a splash on my face, I took the plunge. Funny, upside down you're not too concerned with how cold it is right side up! I did about 10 rolls--a few non extended--and figured I had proved myself manly enough for the day. On my way home, a guy on the Harbor Patrol boat asked me if I was out on a polar exploration. I guess in Newport Beach, this is close as we get! As I loaded up the boat, the sky decided to unload. Mark Sanders www.sandmarks.net *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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