The third annual “Girls Gone Windsurfing” free women’s windsurfing clinic was sold-out this year, with 32 beginner women participating on Saturday, Aug. 20.
The group proved to be quite athletic and progressive, as students tackled the simulator by the end of the clinic.
Women of all ages from around the Northwest showed up at the Hook to take the first step in learning the often frustrating but always rewarding sport of windsurfing. Louis Fry and Andy Tombs of Astoria discussed and laughed about common problems such as going upwind and jibing.
Some of the younger, more ambitious students like Harleigh and Ellie Roberts, tackled the beach start, while others stuck to the simulator.
Hood River businesses DaKine and No Limitz sponsored the clinic by donating donated masts, hats, T-shirts, and purses. Ezzy Sails, Windance, Storm Warning, and the Columbia Gorge Windsurfing Association provided the gear used for the clinics and Salomon Sports, Columbia Gorge Organic Juices and Clif Bar kept all of the participants hydrated and fueled up for the day’s challenges.
Clinic organizers Shana Sweitzer, Jenny Naftilun, and Tracey Durdee are looking forward to next year and are hoping to expand the clinic to a full weekend of female windsurfing clinics and activities.
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