Harness the Wind: 2009-03-01

Saturday, March 7, 2009

REAL Coach's Tryout Party Pic

On the left is Jason Slezak, my marketing department colleague and pro-rider for Liquid Force. On the right is Laura Vroman, a.k.a. Lulu, skateboard and kiteboard extraordinaire.

When I bought myself a skateboard for my 34th birthday, my mother said I was digressing. Little did any of us know at the time how far I'd come. After a full Saturday of surfing and stand up paddle boarding (SUP), Ryan, Matt, Dan and I headed to the campgrounds in Buxton to kite skate (that is, you skateboard with a trainer kite). It hurts more when you fall, but still a good time. OK...off to meet the new coaches. REAL held their coach tryouts today and there's a beer and pizza party at the store.

Friday, March 6, 2009

A Day In The Life of Carl

March 6th, 2009

Bryan Elkus

This dude is talented. I work with him! Check out his photos at www.bryanelkus.com.

The Last Tie I Will Hopefully Ever Wear!

I distributed thirty or so of my neck ties to the REAL team to session in. I thought about cutting them up or burning them in some sort of farewell ritual, but decided to just leave a few of them salty and wrinkled in the back of my truck so that every time I see them I am reminded of where I spent the last twelve years and how important it is to make this work. I don't want to go back!

My Post to NYCKitesurfers

Dear NYCKitesurfers,

Although some of you already know, I wanted to officially announce that I have moved from Manhattan to Waves, NC to take a position with REAL Watersports. Having spent 12 years on Wall Street, I can only say that I am thrilled to have landed a job in the kiteboard industry. My title is Marketing Director and my job will be to promote all of REAL's products, services and events.

Moving to Waves has been quite a culture shock. Yesterday I walked into a local bank branch and they knew who I was before I said a word. That's when you know you are in a very small town! I picked up my first two hitchhikers this week! It is amazing how friendly and helpful everyone is. After just a few days, you almost feel obligated to go out of your way to offer someone a lift.

Beyond that, I have surfed or kited everyday since I've been here, and although the air has been quite chilly, we are expecting 60 degree temperatures and 20mph winds this weekend!

One noteworthy event that would justify a road trip to Cape Hatteras is the 4th Annual Triple-S Invitational, considered by many to be the free-ride world championship of kiteboarding. The event is scheduled for May 30th to June 5th. Come witness world class pro riding, attend event parties and session until you are blind!

www.realwatersports.com

Please use me as a resource if you are planning a trip to Cape Hatteras. I look forward to seeing all of you soon!

Best regards,

Carl

Carl Giordano
Marketing Director
REAL Watersports
917.620.3725

Wild Card Entries for the 4th Annual Triple-S Invitational held May 30th - June 5th in beautiful Waves, NC

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

First Day of Work

Today I kited in the snow. It was pretty spectacular. Most people don't realize how cozy warm one can be in a good winter wetsuit. I've now sessioned three days in a row...two surf sessions and one kiting session in the sound. The Pamilco Sound stays quite warm I think relative to the ocean temperatures. No doubt though all three required full hood, gloves and booties.

Lulu, Ryan and I did a downwinder from from kite point to the house we were staying at for the retreat in Buxton. Not a long distance, just two miles, but we took our time and tacked back and forth and lofted ourselves at will in a crisp northern wind. It started to snow. Magical. One of those sessions I didn't want to end.

The sun is supposed to come out tomorrow and I'm looking forward to it. :o)

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Level of Stoke

After five hours of strategy meetings, the REAL crew headed to Frisco Pier for their "mandatory session." The pelting rain and ominous thunder did not deter them. They live it and breath it everyday and that's why they're the best at what they do.

I did not know exactly what "stoked" meant before I got here. Now I do. And after only three days, I'm sure I want to stay. I'm sure I want to work with these guys...and girls. Committed and devoted to changing lives helping others achieve the same level of stoke.