Back from Nitinat Windfest

We had a great time at Windfest 2006 in Nitinat on Vancouver Island (Google Satellite Map). I didn't get to see much of the windsurfing competition but the kiteboarding events were awesome.

The boarder cross or kitercross was the most exciting to watch and the freestyle events was filled with big air and technical handlespasses, board off tricks, and kiteloops.

We didn't get to kite much due to the competitions going on and the sheer number of kiters and windsurfers on the water. However, there was plenty of action with a dj and sound system pumping all weekend with all sorts of activities and events to keep you occupied. Windfest was a success and I'm sure that we'll see it again next year and many more years to come.

I have posted my pictures on Flickr at:
Photo Album Link

I have also added a few video to Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdqC_zEbxMY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs4KVbZlw_g
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gk3EgxcMqk4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkZw7TeaJcA


RESULTS (by Chris Glazier)

Congratulations to the Squamish crew of riders in a very popular event. It seemed like the entire crew of regular Squamish riders was there.
The winners are all Squamish riders (..well 2dog Mark was last year):

Long distance race: Chris Glazier (1st), Don Armstrong (2nd)

Kiter Cross: Chris Hunter (1st)

Free style: 2dog Mark (1st), Andrew Scott (2nd), Chris Hunter (3rd)

Big Air: Don Armstrong (..timed at about 8 seconds hangtime)

The overall winner was Chris Hunter, big congratulations.

Unfortunately there was a serious incident in the kiter cross, where Philippe Cabanne was in a kite tangle and had his fingers seriously cut by lines. Thanks to plastic surgery at Nanimo General Hospital, his fingers are stitched up and he hopes to be kiting again in a month.

(write up borrowed from Skypilot Kiteboarding forum post)