The early blast just before the storm really kicked in. This was mellow compared to how the afternoon unfolded; 70mph plus with local opinion claiming the biggest seas they had ever seen (Fairway Buoy - 21ft).

This Quad fin beauty came through the post yesterday, and I just had to give it a baptism in the north westerly early this a.m..  It felt about as directional as a single fin to point up wind, plane etc. but what amazed me was how it felt on the wave face. These things are incredible to turn, as loose as a twin fin, but somehow felt quicker. I will try and critique in more detail when I get the chance, but in the meantime if you get a chance to try, I totally recommend it.

For the brief moments that it howled, before it squawled up to Force 7 gusting 8, Tim, Jim and myself just about had the start of what looked to be a good session. Sadly the wind wasn't going to stay consistent. Any size sail from 3metre up to 7 would have at times been useable. However for that brief moment it was flying and despite missing the guys at spot X, and the two shandy's ( who called me first :) then decided not to go out, it was still worth getting wet. Great forecast continues for rest of week (wind wise).

Couldn't really sleep through the night as the wind chimes were on overtime, and the rain was seemingly unstoppable. So I started the day at 4am, and by 8, I felt really tired at the thought of sailing in the storm. After dropping the kids off for school, I met with a smaller than normal crew, and we headed off the front. Wind seemingly had calmed down from the 61mph gust recorded at Chivenor, but still solid enough to score a good session, and some painful back loop attempts. Most impressive of all though, had to be Luke, with his large frontside airs surfing in almost blown out conditions. Amazing !

Finally got to the beach after a rather fraught day (more to follow). Wind was a little up and down but managed to have an ok session in the much decreased swell (reading over 6 mts this morning). Almost cross shore at times so quite fun for the wave riding back in. Think the kiters had the best of it though, it was actually nice to watch them ripping around !

Wind is howling and the skies are turning from deep blue, to fast squally rain showers, and then clearing again. Bit gutted to not be hitting the water on the high tide, but hopefully catch a late afternoon session when the wind has stabilised and the blue skies will be holding.
Photo updated from sail this pm.