Harnessing the Wind: My Kiteboarding Adventure in Santa Fe
In search of a new adventure, I headed to Santa Fe to take on a 3-day kiteboard course. With the sun on my back and the wind in my sails, I discovered the thrill of riding the waves in a whole new way.
Day 1: The First Taste of Freedom
Arriving in Santa Fe, I was greeted by the warm sun and the gentle hum of the ocean waves. The anticipation of learning a new skill, kiteboarding, was palpable. As a seasoned surfer, the idea of harnessing the wind to glide over the water was both thrilling and slightly daunting. But the allure of the Amihan Beach Cabanas, with its promise of a private instructor and a tailored experience, was too tempting to resist.
The first day was all about getting acquainted with the equipment and understanding the basics. Our instructor, a seasoned kiteboarder with a laid-back demeanor, made the learning process enjoyable and stress-free. We started with a light safety briefing, which was essential for understanding the dynamics of the kite and the wind. The beach was the perfect setting, with its expansive sandy stretches and consistent wind conditions.
By the end of the day, I was already feeling the rush of the wind pulling the kite, a sensation that was both exhilarating and liberating. It was a reminder of why I love the ocean so much – the endless possibilities and the freedom it offers.
Day 2: Building Confidence
The second day was all about building on the foundation we had set. With the basics under my belt, it was time to get more hands-on. The focus was on mastering the control of the kite and understanding how to use the wind to my advantage. The instructor was patient, offering tips and insights that only someone with years of experience could provide.
The highlight of the day was attempting my first board start. It was a moment of pure adrenaline, as I felt the board lift off the water and glide across the surface. The feeling was indescribable – a mix of excitement, freedom, and a touch of fear. But with each attempt, my confidence grew, and I began to understand the rhythm of kiteboarding.
As the sun set over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The ocean had once again proven to be a generous teacher, offering lessons in patience, perseverance, and joy.
Day 3: Riding the Waves
The final day of the course was the culmination of all our efforts. With the basics mastered and confidence built, it was time to put everything into practice. The goal was to ride independently over the water, a feat that seemed daunting just two days ago.
The conditions were perfect – a steady breeze and clear skies. With the instructor’s guidance, I launched the kite and felt the familiar pull of the wind. This time, however, I was ready. The board lifted, and I was off, gliding over the waves with a newfound sense of freedom.
The feeling of riding the waves, powered by the wind, was unlike anything I had experienced before. It was a dance with nature, a harmonious blend of skill and instinct. As I rode back to the shore, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience and the opportunity to learn something new.
Santa Fe had once again proven to be a paradise for ocean lovers, offering not just waves to surf but winds to ride. The 3-day kiteboard course was more than just a lesson in kiteboarding; it was a journey of discovery, a reminder of the endless possibilities the ocean holds. If you’re ever in Santa Fe, I highly recommend giving kiteboarding a try.