Any other 'sub 15-knot' learners out there?

Evenin'

I'm currently learning how to use my shiny new rig - I can do the basics alright and can get back to shore with dry hair in less than 15 knots of breeze - but as soon as it clicks over 15 knots I can't uphaul properly, gybe like a massive gumby and end up floating back to shore too exhausted to pull the sail up.

I probably don't need any lessons, just want to get some hours up and improve my skills to a level where I can cruise with 'regular' windsurfers who won't get out of bed for anything less than 20 knots.

So, any other leaners out there in the Brisbane region who would be keen to get out for a windsurf in lighter airs over the next few weeks?

Btw thanks to everyone who replied to my last post on where to sail - Usually go out just south of the manly marina for convenience if nothing else. Had a look at 'the stairs' on the northern side of the marina but those rocks don't agree with my nice, new board's lovely sheen.

Cheers, see you out there!!!

We all went through this. I distinctly remember yelling a lot more than I do these days.

I recommend "wasting" a day's sailing learning how to waterstart. Spend an hour or so in shallow water dragging yourself around behind the sail, not actually getting up onto the board. When you've got the hang dragging yourself around as shark bait "all you need to do" is power up enough to come all the way up onto the board. (thanks haircut for the tip)

This will also develop your general sail handling technique, sheeting in/out, forward hand/backward hand etc. etc. enormously. Once you can waterstart you'll find you will be sailing far, far more efficiently.

In light winds practise hanging in the harness and setting the lines up so you can completely let go for at least a few seconds. Also very, very useful. If it's not overly gusty you should be able to sail along with one hand indefinately.

I still gybe like an absolute gumby when even moderately overpowered.

I still like going out in 10 knots for a long cruise, over summer at least. I stop for fish & chips and sail back. Can be really, really nice.

Go out on a sharky day, you feet will not get wet, and your water starts will improve very quickly.

I got the basics in knee deep water, but could never get the hang of it, watched some videos and it all came together in the surf where I managed to water start just before being dumped by a medium sort of wave at Bondi, after that it was easy, just practice and practice
After a while you should be able to water start in all wind conditions, it would be a good idea to practice in conditions that you would be just a little overpowered, this will give you the lift needed to pull the board under you as you stand up .

It's late summer, an outgoing tide, nearing sunset, murky water, overcast sky.
Because of a sudden lull you're stuck trying to waterstart at the mouth of a dirty canal.
A fish or something swims past your leg.
There's splashing from behind you.
Then a dolphin surfaces in your peripheral vision.