2009 Team Rider Profile: Chris McCorkindale
Which boardsports do you participate in now and when did you start?
I first learned to windsurf several years ago at Community Boating in Boston. I had originally signed up for sailing lessons but was soon smitten with windsurfing. After a few summers of flirting with the sport, I became more serious about it and bought my own equipment. I soon discovered how little I knew about sailing on the ocean and started signing up for clinics wherever I found them.
My first clinic was through the AMC with Petra Kanz. She let me know about another clinic she was running with the CCW. And that's how it started!
Think of a great water sesh you’ve had recently. How did you feel after?
The last session I had in 2008 was in October at Cape Hatteras. The wind was blowing around 28 to 35 mph; way stronger than I'm comfortable with. I managed to get a few runs in while hanging on for dear life. I was also lucky to get a waterstart lesson with Petra which helped build my confidence in stronger winds.
I find that whatever my mood is before going in the water, it's always better afterwards. I get a great physical and mental workout from windsurfing. Even if I spend most of the time getting tossed about by wind and waves in a particular session, I tend to feel happy and calm afterwards.
Ever compete? Wanna try?
I don't see that happening in this lifetime. That said, I'm usually up for a friendly race with friends at a similar skill level.
Wahine Wisdom for newbies:
Go for it! It really puts the rest of your life in perspective and can give you an incredible sense of self-sufficiency.
Favorite non-wahine activities:
Dancing, working out, yoga, reading, learning new technology, hanging out at home.
Where have you traveled to wind, kite, or wave surf?
La Ventana in Baja, Mexico was quite an experience. The conditions were tough for windsurfing as I had very little ocean experience at that time. I ended up taking kite lessons and had a blast.
Cabarete, DR was a great place to go to in December 2005. I had always wanted to go somewhere tropical for Christmas. The wind was not as great as I had hoped, but there were fully rigged rentals on the beach and plenty of fabulous cafes to hang out in while waiting for the wind to come up.
Name a few wahines who have influenced you.
Des and Liz inspire me with their enthusiasm and dedication to getting out on the water. Marietta has really pulled me into the group and helped me to see the value of getting involved.
Why are you stoked about the CCW?
Having been hardwired as kind of a loner, I'm looking forward to breaking out of that and networking with women who love board sports as much as I do. I'm also really looking forward to more clinics and parties this year!
Where would you like to see the CCW a few years from now?
Using 21st Century technology to let everyone know when and where they're going to be doing their thing on the water.
Your personal water goals for 2009?
Definitely more time on the water -- at least once a week. I also want to start kiteboarding and try surfing again.