My lesson of the week

[Jake]

You also have to watch for dogs (if they allow dogs on the beach where you kite). I heard of one experience 4 or 5 years ago where a dog grabbed a bar and ran with it launching the kite. Another where the dog got caught in the lines. Another good reason for not leaving the bar and lines lying on the beach.

I don't think you should should ever approach a non-kiter for help. I think that was the jist of Wolfie's post. (He got fooled)

If you can't self land a kite then "ditch it" in the water, imo, away from people. Please don't ever knowingly invite a non-kiter to handle your kite, that is just asking for trouble (especially in higher winds).

Originally Posted by Skyway Scott

If you can't self land a kite then "ditch it" in the water, imo, away from people. Please don't ever knowingly invite a non-kiter to handle your kite, that is just asking for trouble (especially in higher winds).

Not a bad point at all, Scott, given that a non-kiter might screw up while catching the kite and end up getting himself hurt.

Landing a kite in the water won't hurt the kite. I am qualified to say as much, given that my kite is in the water, it seems, at least 10 times every session.

no quick release at the band camp !

[TampaBay Noob]

How do most of you guys self-land your kites?? I can self launch and do all the other stuff, but every time I try to self-land the kite by grabbing a rear line and running up to it my hands get shredded before I even make it to the kite. Any pointers or suggestions for me? Is there a better method?

[Steve-O]

Scott,

You are right on. Self landing is the only way to go. After having this guy grab my bar, and another try to grab, it is just best to rely on oneself.

I would be interested to hear about other's experience of walking up the lines especially in higher winds. I have not had much success with this. I usually just try to find a wind shadow and dump the kite there.