Mentor a Soloist

[androka]

windmuch,

I'm just finishing up lessons and will probably start out at Alameda. Its good to know there are experienced kiters out there looking to help us noobs. I'm starting to feel comfortable about the experience but the first time I head out with my own gear will be pretty intense.

David

[WindMuch]

Hi David,

If you post a message here when you're headed for Alameda, there's a pretty good chance there will be someone around to give you a welcome. If for some reason you don't hear back, the girls (Jane and Rebecca) at Boardsports are a great resource for questions, launch setup checks, etc. I recommend stopping by and introducing yourself - I've found them to be really friendly.

In addition, if you email me (kirk@lansharks.net), I'll do my best to adjust my schedule to be available to meet you down there. I do have things like work, a family and the coast to kite (!!!), but I also love helping people feel safe(r) when they've just come out of lessons. If you have the flexibility, I prefer/recommend weekdays, when it's not so busy.

Looking forward,

Kirk out

[Greg]

Kirk-
Your AWESOME!!! =D> =D> =D>
Much RESPECT,
Greg

[WindMuch]

Comin' from you, Greg, that's quite a compliment. You have and will do the same.

Thank you!

Kirk out

[CdoG]

Sounds like maybe...androka and kitebuddy sound buddy up?

[Greg]

Comin' from you, Greg, that's quite a compliment. You have and will do the same.

Thank you!

Kirk out

Yes, true- but it's your way of doing it and saying it that makes you so approachable and effective!
Combine that with your pure love of teaching and you've got magic-

THANK YOU for stepping up and being MY MENTOR!
I learn something from you every time our paths cross, (on-line or in person)
Much RESPECT!
Greg

[KirkTalon]

Kudos to Kirk.

Taking the time to give back is just great Karma and makes for safer conditions for us all. Even with a few seasons behind me I learn daily from those of you who consistently take the time to help me with that next step. Being a mentor is part of stewardship.

About "do they know what you are doing at their beach"? comment ...their beach? Really? I was under the impression kiters where a tad more evolved then our surfing " forefathers. Board sports has the teaching permit there, which does not make the beach theirs. I might be down the beach with my 13 year old doing trainer kite and body drag stuff, would be very amused by somebody telling me I can't "practice" and mentor him there.

It's about safety, common sense and respect, pure and simple.

Cheers to all who sacrifice a little of their fun in the water to pay it forward.

(the other Kirk)

[cranerpr]

Thanks Max,Ino,Ray and Adam, for making my first solo at Shellgate a sucess!!
You guys took time to answer all my noob questions and really came across as wanting to help. I think I spent more time talking and asking questions than actually body dragging and feeling out my "new to me" equipment! I look forward to being able to do the same as I progress in the sport!
Jim