Dec 28 2011
Back in action
Its seemed like an absolute age to me, but getting to a stage to even consider windsurfing is only half the battle. Once you are nearly fit enough, then forecasts reappear on the radar, then once you feel ready the right forecasts are hard to find, coupled with the UK winter, dark before and after work, so only 2 days a week are possible if the forecast suits …..
I’ve been doing lots of physio as had impressed my physio at the recent assessment. How nice is it to hear a lady armed with a tape measure praising girth and length? She was really impressed as length matched that of my good tendon, as did girth of my calf, but she noted that my good calf had actually gained half an inch girth too so was extra impressed with my progress.
Anyway, this morning offered the chance to dip the proverbial toe … So I headed to the beach to catch up with the guys and to see how it feels …. below is copied from a session log
28th December 2011
Windsurfing: Cooden
Wind Direction: W
Wind Stength: 15-25mph
Surf / Sea State: Big waves
Air Temperature: Ok
Sea Temperature: Ok
Weather: Overcast but bright
Quick tester session.
Not exactly ideal for first sail since the Achilles op with big waves and ripping tide and brides nighty breeze, but for a December sail it wasn’t cold.
Opted for the 10′5 so I could ride slow and steady and control speed etc while getting a feel for windsurfing again. Went for 5.7m same as Big Mark, and Julian was on a 5.51235m too so didn’t think I’d be overpowered
Set up seemed ideal, although I hadn’t rigged it quite right with harness lines far too far forward ….
Sailed out through the waves fine even trying a couple of cheeky wave hops and all felt fine. I had pretty much forgotten how to sail, fell at gybe, adjusted lines while in the drink, held on as a rogue wave hit me, got organised and water started fine. Riding in was FUN picking up some chunky waves, dropping down as steep as I dared and bottom turning to go back up the face for another go. Ankle seemed to cope fine with backside riding on the 10′5 which is great news as its a pretty big board to turn tight, but it is also a really manouvreable big wave board 
Adding to the joy that a successful rehab session gives, it was great to catch up with the regulars down the beach for a sail
I’m not quite there yet, but I’m back
I should score it as a 5 for that alone, but being honest it was a short session and the rip was punishing everyone!!!
That to me is a real Xmas present …. Hopefully you guys all got some neat treats too
