02/07/2008 - There is to be a Kite Ban at Bantham
Posted by: pikeFollowing recent poor safety awareness from kitersurfers at Bantham, those with the authority to do so are looking to place a ban on kitesurfers at Bantham.
Needless to say the committee are urgently trying to ensure that an overall ban does not happen. However, as it has become apparent, it seems we cannot guarantee the safety of other beach users at high tide and so a ban of some sort is inevitable. The preferred option is that Kite launching and landing on main Beach should be banned 2 hours before high tide to two hours after. At this time ( 4 hrs through high tide) all kite launching and landing should take place at Kite Beach (the spit). This will be in force throught out July and August and at the discretion of the Lifeguards at other times.
The dissappointing thing is that those that have let us down are the regular kiters, NOT weekend warriors from London.
Last Sunday:
A red/yellow/green Ion owner dropped their kite on the beach right next to young children playing on the beach.
2 yellow Rebel owners decided it was a good idea to cut close to a couple of surfers, splashing them. The kitesurfers where senior lifeguards.
An orange Rhino owner decided it was agood idea to try some tricks right next to and into the swim area.
There were others (Grey JN Kite) who unimpressed the lifeguards.
There is no time anymore to just slowly change our behaviours. A ban is imminent. Everytime someone transgresses the safety rules I will post it up here. I don't care about any personal reaction to me. I just want Bantham to remain open and safe for kiters and other beach users.
I put it to you all that it is YOUR duty, no matter red rashie or not, to police the beach. If you are a kitesurfer, a forum user, beginner or expert we have to help ourselves. If you see any poor kitesafety at bantham..DO SOMETHING! Even if it's pointing it out to someone you consider more experienced. I don't mean get into an argument, just be polite but firm. I understand there is one particluar kiter who likes to be confrontational, no matter, no-one is exempt.
I am dissappointed and feel we have let ourselves down. There is good wind forcast this weekend. There will be many regulars and many more visitors. Low tide is in the middle of the day with high tide early and late in the day. But just remember it's 4 hours either side.
I hope we can all help each other keep safe. Please, Please use Kite Beach at High Tide and keep away from other beach users.
