2009-05-27

The Wavesailing Experience, Which Would You Prefer?

Discussion arose last night at the Avon Sailhouse Spring season closure dinner party about the wavesailing experience and "convenience" vs. "the search/safari" I remember reading about a similar topic on the OffTheLip.us website (is that site still around?) last year where discussion arose about running wavesailing contests and whether its better to run events around spectator convenience or wind/wave conditions. Convenience is important for high spectator numbers, and even participant ease of "finding" the event; however, should conditions be sacrificed to satisfy convenience? Its an interesting debate, and especially relevant here on the Outer Banks given that our wave spots are not static and sandbar setups change year to year, season to season, even week to week. We do have convenience in locations such as Ego Beach (directly across from Canadian Hole) and Old Hatteras Lighthouse beach. At times these locations offer excellent conditions; however, many times they do not, and other spots around the islands offer wind and surf which satisfy the pallet of both the diehard and aspiring wavesailor. Some spots are easily accessible yet require some mileage relative to Canadian Hole, while others require 4WD capability. However, if a prime wind/wave setup is found outside the convenient locations, is it worth making the effort to hit it?!