[Steve-O]

There was a bit a waiting to be done, but with some good ole fashioned patience, we RACED!!!!!

Captains meeting was delayed an hour as the 8am time was tough for folks to get to. There wasn't much wind happening in the am, so the decision was made to delay the meeting till 9am. During the meeting the wind went from calm to 20+. The energy was awesome, but by the end of the meeting, the wind went back to calm. Basically the front just passed thru.

We rigged kites and waited for the wind. The skies had cleared, the race line was set, flags and horns ready, but no wind. A few guys got in the water and slugged around a bit, but it just wasn't enough. Who wants to do a 20+ mile downwinder in 10 knots? So we waited some more.

The 12pm deadline had hit and the decision was made to break for lunch and try again at 1:30.

By the time we got back from lunch it was GAME TIME. Wind was solid 18+ and building. The race sequence started at 1:30 sharp and the race began at 1:40. It was a very exciting start to say the least.

The 2010 Gulf Coast Kiteboard Challenge was under way. FINALLY!!!!

30+ riders participated with 6 being unable to finish. Ski support was provided the entire way and everyone that had troubles got back to shore safely. Ski support was provided by a Watersports West instructor.

After 20+ miles in 20+ conditions, here are the results.

Juniors
Jan Gianello
Chaz Lawerance
Drew Christianson

Open Mens
Damien LeRoy
Kent Marinkovich
Mike Hall

Women's
Tammy Moore

Masters
Scott Petterson
Rich Garner
Enrique Gianello

Sorry for any mispellings.

A great time was had at the Undertow with some nice warm food and drinks to wash it all down. We all got to watch the sun go down and that is a wrap.

Thanks to everyone that participated!!!!!!!

Chris will be posting more on exact times and info on the donation to All Children's Hospital.

A big thank you to all the volunteers that make this this happen!!!!!