It is the beginning of a new windy season in the Tampa Bay area and this marks my eighth year windsurfing. Every season begins with hope for great wind, water and new learning opportunities but as a community we are facing daunting challenges related to the recent hurricanes over the past few years and the increasing threat of pollution both man made (Untreated water released into the rivers and bays) and natural (red tide) effecting our favorite sailing locations and the overall health of our communities. Discussions are now as much about safety and water quality as they are about wind and tides.
As windsurfers we accept the dangers associated with our sport but the dangers associated with sailing in polluted water is now a far greater concern then in years past. The levels of pollution are much greater this year and as a result some of my favorite locations will be off limits to me until at least 2025. We can only hope that we have no more storms and releases of untreated water. Hopefully mother nature will flush the rivers and bays with cleaner water over the next weeks and once again allow us to enjoy our favorite locations. Of course red tide is another story and we know it isn’t too far of the coast. NE winds are keeping it off shore for now but cold fronts often bring NW winds this can/will push red tide onto the coast.
My biggest personal challenge this season will probably result in a major change in how I windsurf into my later years. I sprained my ankle at the end of last season and it has taken me most of the summer to recover. Unfortunately this injury has limited my ability to fin sail. The pressure we put on our feet and ankles when planing on a fin is simply too much for my ankle and it has made me hesitant when sailing which isn’t safe or fun.
Fortunately for me foiling doesn’t put the same stress on my feet or ankles. You sail in a more upright stance and as a result less pressure on the ankle. In fact foiling has been really good for my ankle. It has improved the strength of my ankle and been mostly positive for my recovery. I know I’m going to keep foiling but the question I have is when do I test the ankle on fin board again? My two Starboard Carves are begging to get back on the water but how much use will they get this year? I love fin sailing but foiling is also great fun and as I will be 64 at the end of the season, is this the season I make the switch?
A few years ago when I made the switch from my beloved Kona One (long board) to a short board it was the same question. The Kona sat in the garage or on the beach as my focus had shifted to the exciting world of short board sailing and I eventually sold the Kona One.
It will be a year of challenges for our entire water sports community and they whole area and for me a personal challenge to decide my windsurfing future. Stay safe and hopefully we have a great windy season!
Tampa Bay & SW FL Windsurfing & Foiling 
Do yoga. It is wonderful for injured parts. Trust me. I have had so many injuries as a polo player and every one of them were mitigated by yoga. Simply being able to bend and touch your toes relieves knee and ankle problems not to mention how the downward facing dog licks your shoulder injuries as well as your back. Do it!