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July 04, 2008
HEEEELLLOOOO People's......Happy 4th of July for those of you in the 'Good ole US of A'. Wish we were back home with friends and family....stoking the BBQ and playing games with the kids in the yard. ENJOY....and choke down an extra Burger & Beer for us.......Sorry you haven't heard from me for a while, but twas not due to lack of wind or effort on my part. I did ATTEMPT to post a report some weeks back but it obviously never appeared. I know we are having 'server' problems all over the island...may be the problem....but I also know that we are having problems with the 'Vela Web sight' in general. (For those of you who have e-mailed me about your feedback submissions that ALSO never appeared...sorry. Our Vela tech guys have been working on the problem....hopefully to be solved soon. Thanks to all who took the time to TRY to share your Vela Margi experience.).......Now to the good stuff.....We had an EXCEPTIONAL May and June. Nearly the entire month of May was blowing 20 - 25 - 30....with the exception of only a few days. June was also great up until about 10 days ago when the clouds and rain moved in putting the wind in a 'holding' pattern. Still sailable but requiring the 'BIG GUNS'. Today again is a little overcast.....blowing 10 - 15. The forcast looks a bit better for the next week......Well it's that time of year when we begin to prep for the upcoming season. The guys have already got a jump start on all the center improvements...and I now have all the information and specs for the 2009 gear.....so needless to say, I'm spending my time trying to select all the coolest stuff for you all to play with next year. Looks great so far.....can't wait to get our orders completed and sent off to 'Tony da Man' in our Hood River HQ's office. Well that's about it from down here in 'Magical Margi Land'.....Ya'll take care.....and maybe start looking into your schedules for next year....better to get your reservations in sooner than later.......So, I'll leave it at that for now.........More Later........T-Freak, Kathycita & the rest of 'da Boyz'. April 28, 2008
Heelllooo People.....Hope you all had a nice weekend. And, yes we did as well. El Yaque hosted a 'Kite' competition this past Thurs, Fri and Sat. All went well and there was lots of action both on, off and ABOVE the water. Started with a Long Distance race....followed up with numerous heats of Freestyle and ending with an amazing display of Big Air during the 'Hang Time' competition. MAN can those guys and girls fly....literally. A great show for all here to witness. It seems as though this was a bit of a warm up comp for the upcoming 'International PKRA' competition which starts later this week and goes through the weekend. Promises to be quite the spectical. And to make things even more interesting, we'll have the pleasure of Jens and Audrey joining us for the fun and competition. (Jens & Audrey are our associates who run the Vela / Dare2Fly operation in Caberete) It will be nice having them here.....and would be WAY cool if one or both of them could kick some serious International Booty and bring a few trophies home for the Vela / Dare2Fly family. Wish them luck.......Wind has been incredible. Again this month, I only count 1 or 2 days where we didn't hit the mid to upper 20's. Everyother day this month has been honking in the low to mid 30's. Just can't believe that it just keeps howling..... day, afterday, afterday. The REALLY sad news is we only have about a dozen clients here to 'share the stoke'. Just a dirty, rotten shame.....Haven't been out on anything larger than 4.5...and ultimately having to drop down to my 4.0. I guess the lesson to be learned (for YOU people) is that it IS windy here...not just in March (when we are always overbooked)but still rockin through April, May and into June. Hopefully many of you will figure this out for next season....Well, it's 1 o'clock ....the sea is a frothing mess of whitecaps....wind meter clocking in at 25 - 30 on the beach (which means 30 - 35 a short way out.) YIKES!!! And the forcast looks like more of the same. EEEEhhh HHHHaaaaaa!!!! So, I'm going to go get a closer look at the action on the water.....I'll check back in with you after the conclusion of the week 'PKRA' Event. Let's all wish Jens and Audrey luck here in 'Da Yaq'......More Later. T-Freak, Kathycita and the rest of 'Team Vela Margi' April 06, 2008
Helllooooo Peoples....Greetings from 'Windy Margi'. Wow!!! I'm looking out at yet another glorious, beautiful, warm windy day. It's 2 O'clock and blowing 20 - 25. Clear blue skies...white caps as far as the eye can see....and sooo many people 'LOVIN IT'!! I suspect we'll be seeing low to mid 30's by this afternoon. Yesterday it ripped. Guys moving from 5.4 - 5.8 early in the day and eventually down to 4.5's. Gals of course hanging on to 3.5's. FANTASTIC!! And just for the record...I checked our wind stats for March (we check the wind everyday....10 AM and again at 3 PM.)...I counted only 4 days out of the entire month that we did not hit the low 20's. Pretty impressive. So far April is looking great as well.....the only difference is less people here during this time of year. I anticipate April & May to be rockin.....So come on down...enjoy the wind and avoid the March crowds....On a different note.....Kath and Nora have been having lots of company for their morning Yoga sessions up at 'Casa Nora'. Kath 'rallies' the interested Yoga participants around 6:50, and then guides them up to Nora's up on the hill. (A casual 5 minute walk) More and more people getting into it...way cool. Even had a few 'Mother - Daughter' teams....'Darota and Monika', 'Julie & Llana' as well as Amy, Jaclyn, Kersti and their 'token' guy, Daniel. GREAT way to start the day, EH??...Had Holm here for 5 days...visiting from the Vela office in Hood River. I think he had a good time...first stopping in Los Roques, then here in Margi and then left for a few days in Aruba. He was 'hammered'...kiting and windsurfing everyday. Rock on Holm. You'll need a vacation to recover from your vacation. Good luck with that.....Lots of other really fun friends joining us....Frank & Gabi, Neal, Noel, Markus & Diana & 3 yr old Kimberly, Gerry, Karl & Amy, Werner & Renata, Brent & Carla, Bruce....and the list goes on. Also have Roxanne and Ingred here....a couple of rippin Gorge freestylers. They had brought their own 'freestyle' fins but didn't fit our JP boxes....so we found a few 'used' wave fins and our 'main man' Wuichi, shaved them down to their specifications. SWEET!! I think they're happy.......Alrighty then.....Gotta go...More Later........T-Freak, Kath and the rest of 'Team Vela Margi'. March 20, 2008
Buenas dias fellow 'Wind Freaks' !!! Tried to get this 'Wind Report' off to you all a few days ago....server problems. Anyway, hope you all had a Happy St. Pat's Day....and hopefully you've all finished 'hurling' all that green beer that you slurped down. Anyway, all is GREAT down here. Semana Sant is just beginning....yesterday the beach was very mellow, but we anticipate the next few days to be a bit more chaotic.....Wind has been fantastic. Yesterday was a little lighter but still great fun. Prior to that we've been seeing almost every afternoon blessing us with 25 - 30 + kts. Needless to say, after SOOOO many windy days, lots of folks were relieved to have a light day here or there. The forcast again looks great, so we expect the next week to provide us all with the same cranking winds that 'Magical Margi' is so well known for. .....On the 'Bad news' side....had to say 'Good Bye' to many friends over the past days....always sad...Tim & Connie, Tyler (actually, not so hard to say 'good bye' to Tyler....you freak), Lori, Dave, Wendy, Tony, Marcia, Lorenzo...and the list goes on. On the 'Good News' side....our lil 'gal pal' Reggie asked me a few days ago if she could stay ANOTHER week. WHATEVER. Then yesterday she asked me if she could stay yet ANOTHER week. So, Reggi's 2 week vaca has turned into a 4 week holiday.....So it's 10 AM and the wind is already crankin.....good news so everyone can get some great sailing conditions before the beach becomes crazy.......Well that's about it for today......gonna head on down to the 'office' and asses the beach carnage and chaos. OOOHH YYYAAAA.......More Later. T-Freak, Kathycita and the rest of the Vela Margi Crew. February 18, 2008
Hello People and 'Happy Presidents Day' to those of you in the US. Hope you're enjoying the extended weekend....albeit COLD! Quite a different story here as the wind keeps on blowin and so many of our friends / clients are arriving to share the fun, sun and wind. It's pretty amazing to see soooo many good, long term clients returning....As well as some newbies...Wayne & Dena, Emily (stop smiling) Pete & Linda etc. Just makes our jobs THAT much more fun....Swede & Marcy, Marcel & Janine, Jeff, Derek, Larry, Andrew, Gunnar, Bruce (here for 6 weeks) Markus, Andreas and of course Beecher & Georgeann and their 2 cute kids, Beecher Jr. and Laura. What fun for us to watch the kids grow and mature over the years. And of course you all know 'Big Timbo' is still here and doing his daily blog and photos (margiwindsurfing.com) Check it out if you haven't already.....The wind and weather??? Well, Alex has been out almost everyday on 5.0, Kath has been jammin on 4.5 & 4.0....In other words...almost every afternoon kicking in nicely....mid to upper 20's..SWEET!! Still have been having some 'mini showers' during the night....but clear by the time we all wake up and contemplate yet another day in 'Paradise'. Strange to still be seeing 'moisture' during this time of year....Had a group fly over to Los Roques this morning for a few days...and also a number of people enjoying the 'Speed Runs' & 'Hero Jibes' on Coche. ALL good stuff, eh?? So I'll leave it at that for now....Looking forward to seeing you Reggie Girl, Roger, Karl & Amy, Steph, Daniel and also Holm, from our head office in Hood River will be visiting us for the first time..... We ALL gonna have a good time!!!!....More Later. T-Freak, Kath-i-cita and the rest of the 'Vela Margi Team' February 02, 2008
Good Morning and Happy Ground Hog Day!!! Timbo 'Stumb-a-lina' Walker arrived yesterday (for 43 days).....a wee bit delayed, but here safe and sound. Got him settled in and his 'vacation office' all set up in a matter of hours.....Nice Big desk, 2 Big Honkin 30 in. monitors, comfy chair...and all with a direct view out to the beach and all the action.....Soooo, you can expect to be reading his daily reports of 'Life in Margi Land' starting very soon. (Refer to Feedback page for his new web page address)......Anyway, the wind has been 'iffy' for the past week or so..(I cannot tell a lie)...a few cloudy, rainy days mixed in with a few decent sailing days. Doesn't look promising for today, but the forcast predicts a change starting tomorrow. Sounds good to me!! Not much other news here....except....Bitchin gear, rockin center, warm water, wind crankin up and 'Team Vela Margi' awaiting your arrival.....Enjoy the 'Super Bowl' tomorrow...eat piles of food....chased with massive quantities of beer.....then come on down to Margi to work it off.....OOOhh YYYaaa!!!! Alrighty then....gonna head on down to the 'office'........More Later........T-Freak, Kath, B, A, W, J, F. January 20, 2008
Happy Sunday peoples.....and Greetings from 'Windy - Magical - Margi - land'. Everything is GREAT down here. All of our new 2008 gear is rigged and ready...The center is jam packed with all the new toys that are just waiting for you....so come on down and do some 'test driving'.....We've been having very good wind since last report...I was out twice this week....5.4 Alpha...JP 92. Could have been alll wound up on 5.0 on Friday....but believe it or not....'WORK' got in the way. Go figure.... The 'Wind Guru' has been predicting '15 - 18' knts, but we have been enjoying '18 - 25' knts almost everyday. Ironically enough, we have a number of guests here now that normally come in Feb & March, but chose ro come a bit earlier to avoid the 'crowds'. They have seeked me out personally to say how happy they are to have made the descion to come earlier as the wind is still great but 'the scene' so much more mellow....quiet....Less people ON the water....less people on the beach......Doesn't get much better than that....We now have about 30 sailors, but that will change very soon. Sooo much looking forward to seeing all of our loyal, return guests / clients / friends.....as well as the 'New-bees'. The whole staff is TOTALLY AMPED for the upcoming high season. Sooooooo...see you all soon.....LOVIN LIFE & WIND in 'Margi Land' .........More Later.......'T-Freak, Kath-i-cita, Bernie, Alex, Wuichi, Orfeo, Johan & Fernando'....DA TEAM! December 26, 2007
Happy Holidays to All!!!! Hoping you all had a Very Merry Christmas!!....Everything is great down here. We had our annual 'Christmas Eve Champagne Toast' with clients and a few friends. Was very nice.....many tasty treats and happy faces..... All our new 2008 equipment is here and looks fantastic!!! The new 2008 Niel Pryde 'Hellcat' is awsome. All the clients are going nuts over them......The center just looks amazing!!....Big ole stack of NEW '08'JP's as well as the stack of '08' Starboards....The wind has been OK....last few days ...kind of light ....12 - 16....today a little stronger ......the forcast looks as though it will improve during the next week......Everybody is having fun and that's what it's all about......So people....we are noticing some time periods starting to fill up. Please don't wait too long to fix your dates and make your reservations.....REALLY looking forward to seeing you all in the near future......Lovin life in the Yaq......More Later......T & K and the rest of 'da Boyz' November 22, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving Everybody!! Hope you are all 'hunkering down' with friends and family for the Holidays!!
Well it's been a while so I'll update you with what's been going on down here....First off, we've had a very nice fall. Wind has been quite good. Kind of reminds me of years ago when we typicaly DID have decent sailable wind in Oct & Nov. For example, guys have been good with 5.0's and 5.7's many days. Somedays only good for 3-4 hours, but hey...that's OK. Today seems a little lighter but still many windsurfers and kiters out jammin....clearly having a great time....and the forcast looks like more of the same. We're hoping this is a good indicator for what the upcoming season has in hand for all of us / you. WINDY!!!!......Kath and I just returned from the states. Spent about 6 weeks....4 of which were spent visiting various family members...Chicago, Green Bay and Madison, Wisc. Twas wonderful to see them all. The last 2 weeks spent in Miami....organizing, coordinating, inventorying all the great new gear that will be on it's way down very soon. As of this moment our ship will depart Miami within a week....1 week in transit....which means we should have the new toys on our doorstep the first week of December. (Keep your fingures crossed for us). Meanwhile, while Kath and I were away, the Boyz have accomplished sooo much in the center....as usual....these guys totaly rock!!!The place looks fantastic and we are perfectly prepped to recieve the new shipment and start rigging and jamming.....and we're all looking forward to it....AAhhh yes, Early Christmas here in Margi...EEEHHaaa!!!! Also we have sent equipment to Coche and are in the process of getting new gear to Los Roques as well. (Always more difficult logistically)....Alrighty then....we're seeing many reservations coming in...so great to see all those familiar names as well as some new ones. We can't wait to see all of you. For those of you hesitators...best get going and make your plans / reservations. Also, just an FYI....you can expect to be greeted and pampered by the same 'Vela Margi Team' that you've grown to know and love....Bernie, Wuichi (Luis), Alex, Orfeo, Johan and Fernando as well as Marko & Yely (in Coche) and Elias & Lisalotte (in Los Roques). They all send their best wishes and are looking forward to seeing you all. Well that's it for now....I'm about to fire up the grill....Kath has already prepped 'the bird'....and the Green Bay Packers are about to wreak havoc on Detroit.....I hear my 'Bark - o - lounger' a callin....Happy Holidays........More Later.......T-Freak, Kath and the entire 'Vela Margi Team' June 27, 2007
Hey People.....Hope you are all well...Just a short update on life and wind here in 'Margi-ville'....Wind has been realy good......especialy for this time of year...only have had a hand full of days that were a bit light, as well as a few rainy / stormy days, while all other's have been blowing into the low 20's by early afternoon. A few days ago it blasted into the low 30's for a truly 'rockin' afternoon sesh for the folks that were
here....today it has been puffin in the 16 - 22 range.....So, in other words, the wind IS still here, and has been.....We're only missing the people.....So sad to see great conditions, lots of bitchin equipment...and only a dozen people on the water.......So, we're already preping for next season.....I have completed our equipment order for 2008 and am very excited about it and all the cool new toys you'll all be playing with next season.....The guys have been doing some up-grades and renovations to the center (as they do every year)....and they have also been each taking a few weeks or so off. VACATION time for the guys!!!....So that's it for now....take care...and looking forward to seeing you all soon......Ciao for now.... More Later. T,K,B,L,A,O,F,J May 13, 2007
Happy Mother's Day Fellow Wind Freaks!!! Hope you've all had a great weekend....and if you haven't yet called or written your 'Mother's'....then HURRY....you've got a few more hours...Here in Margi??....WHOAAAA..it has been unbelievable...windy every day. Mid to upper 20's and many afternoons in the low 30's. Again this morning in the mid 20's by 8 AM. The same ole frothing mess of gnarly whitecaps...day after day. .....Anyway, gonna keep it short today....Wind is here, We are here and You should also be here.....Hope to see you soon.....More Later..... Big T-Freak, Kath-cita and the rest of the 'BOYZ' May 02, 2007
Yo fellow wind freaks....Hope you're all enjoying some spring weather. Life is great down here. Since last report we've had our typical mix of wind conditions with most days giving us a nice combo. Nearly every afternoon blasting into the mid 20's and better.
Alex was out the other day fully wound up on his 4.5 Alpha. This morning it was already over 20 by 8 AM !!! I also had a great 5.0 / 87 ltr. session the other day....water was unusualy smooth and clear....perfect....and not too many people on the water....I think most people are beginning to realize that the wind is still great through April and May but with much smaller crowds. We are about at half capacity right now......SSSoooo, lots of equipment for you all.....so no reason not to blast on down for a spur-of-the-moment 'Vela Margi' bonus vacation.....
Also, for those of you who were here the past few months and tried to submit your Margi experiences on our 'Feedback' page when you returned home....you may now do so. The page has been having problems for many weeks now, but thanks to Tony in our main office in Hood River.....we are back up and running..(Thanks Tony).....So help us out and let our future Vela Margi sailors
know what they can expect when they come on down for a visit........Anyway, just got a call from the beach....guys already grabbing the 4.2's.....EEEEEEHHHHAAAA!!!!
More Later......T-Phreak, Kathycita and the rest of the Vela - Margi team April 06, 2007
Happy 'Good Friday' to all!!!! Too much news to share in one sitting but just wanted to give you a wee bit of info...Have had a fantastic time since last report with soooo many great friends / clients....'Kath's 50th' party, 'Vela GPS Speed Time Trials' and awards (at which we had over 70 clients / friends up on the 'Sky Deck'), group dinners, 'hot dog day' for the clients (thanks Kath and LUZ), the start of Semana Santa and the return of the wind. Speaking of which....we continued to have really good wind up until about 6 - 8 days ago at which time we had a very strange 4 or 5 days of abnormally light winds. It's back now and has been for a few days...and the forcast looks very promising. The light days were greatly appreciated by the less experienced sailors as they were a bit intimidated with the multiple days blowing in the 30's plus......Anyway, the crowds will begin to disperse and we'll have our 'ole' el Yaq back to ourselves within the next few days. It's a perfect time to come on down and avoid the crowds yet still take advantage of great sailing conditions.
.....Just got back from an early morning (6:45 AM) 2 hour kayak trip up and through the lagoon with a couple of friends....followed by a great breakfast of eggs, fruit, juice, toast, coffee and Kath's special home made banana bread.....some good fun and excercise....but by the time we got back to the Vela beach.....wind was already a-howlin....Frothing, gnarly field of white caps as I write....Yup...Magical Magi Land.....Come on people......Anyway, Have a Happy Easter with your family and friends.....AND THEN get on the plane and boogie down to share the sun, fun, wind and 'stoke'.......More Later....... T-Phreak, Kath and the 'Well Oiled Vela Margi Machine'.
P.S. So sad to say good bye to sooo many great friends...Neal, Gerry, Reggina, Mike, Luke, Miesha & Sabrina, Randy & Claudia, Jim, Blaine, Swede & Marcy, Kevin & Michele, Lynda, Yvonne, Dogmar, Ernie & Lihn, Yoko & Erich, Karl & Amy, Tom & Lee, Michael, Steve 'of speed'.....and the rest of you...you know who you are....Of course a special good-Bye and thanks to Tim & Connie Walker who have been so kind over the years to provide all of you with daily 'blurbs', photo's and video clips of life here at Vela Margi. Please check out all of Tim's cool stuff at 'www.tts-inc.com' March 23, 2007
Morning People....Hope all is well wherever you are. Life is GREAT here!!! Wind has continued to CRANK everyday....maybe a couple of days since the last report only reached the low 20's as the high, but almost everyday blasting into the mid 30's by early afternoon. All the small gear is definitely getting it's fare share of 'water time'. Even BIG guys like Timbo have been on 5.0's and small boards. (Refer to Tim's web page for more specifics, details and photo's...go to 'www.tts-inc.com').....Windy, Windy, Windy!!!
On another note, had a fun group for BBQ at Gabi's last night. Huge turnout with about 50 REALLY hungry sailors. Food was great and plenti-ful and everyone was soon happy and full as the music was just starting up. Many opted for a few more beers with a couple of spins on the dance floor, while others (like yours truly) chose to head home and prepare for yet another day of Sun, Fun and Wind. Very cool to look around the dinner table and see SOOOO many friends...Neal, Reggie, Lucas, David, Bob & Sheryl, Andre & Stephanie, Wendy & James, Mesha & Sabina, Scott & Samantha, Marylyn, Christy, Claudia, Marcel & Janine, Mike...Just to mention a few....OH, and also Gerry 'the Gybe Miester' Sparks.....By the way, Gerry will be here for another week, so if you'd like your own, personal autographed copy of the 2007 Vela Brochure...hurry on down. (Note, Gerry is the guy pictured ripping a Gybe on the Margarita page). Anyway....I'm going to leave it at that for now....Hope to see you all soon......Over and out from Magical Margi-land......More Later Phreaky T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the Rockin Team Vela. February 26, 2007
I know it's only been a few days.....But I thought you all might like to know....Apparently I P.O.'d the 'Wind Gods' with my last report.I guess 'he' showed me / us. It has been blowing like stink ever since last report. Even BIG guys like Tim and Steve have been on 5'0s and down. A lot of sailors limping and gimping around...in one breath saying how great it's been...and in the next breath 'whining' like little girls. We offer NO sympathy here at 'Vela Margarita'. ONLY WIIINNNNDDDDDD!!!!!!
So for those preparing to come on down.....BE READY!!!! We'll be here.
More Later......T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the 'Rockin, Jammin Vela Margarita Phreaks' February 23, 2007
Hello out there People....I think I 'jinxed' the wind Gods with my last few 'Wind Reports'....we've definitely had a spell of lighter winds since you last heard from me. Most days have at least given us a few afternoon hours of decent plane-able winds, although larger equipment than one would expect for this time of year. Mornings have been light...good for the beginners and children. Today for example, woke up to a beautiful clear blue sky but very light winds. By noon guys were down to 5.9's and 5.7's, while gals were taking 5.0's and 4.7's. After a few hours it dropped a bit only to pick back up towards the end of the sailing day. Go figure!! The good news is the forcast looks very promising...sooooo, we'll all keep our fingers crossed.....Other news...We (VELA) will sponsor our first 'Sunset Happy Hour' up on the 'Sky Deck' at the El Yaque Club. Exclusively for VELA clients, we will provide complimentary 'Cervazas' as well as Rum drinks and snacks.....Not to mention the most unbelievable view of the sunset. The roof-top pool is ready and the hot tub will be in the next few days....so wear your beach clothes and take a cooling dip as you sip and enjoy the sun dropping on the horizon.
We will make this a weekly event (Every Saturday, after sailing......5 till 7). Anyway, we've got a great group of friends / clients...and looking forward to seeing all the rest of you in the up-coming weeks and months....We'll be here!! More Later.........T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the 'Rockin, Jammin, Bitchin Team Vela...Margi style February 14, 2007
Greetings from Sunny, Warm and Windy Margarita. Happy Valentines day to you all!!!! All the people down here are celebrating doing what you should be doing also....Ripping it up in raging winds and honking swells. I / we can still say we haven't had a down day in a LONG TIME!!! I can't believe the streak of great days we've had this season. Today, for example, woke up to a gnarly, frothing mess of white caps dancing about the beautiful blue Caribean. Blowing over 20 before we even opened at 9:30. It just got windier and windier. By mid afternoon, even the larger guys were down to the small stuff...4.7, 4.5.....gals jammin on the 3.7's and 3.3's. That's the way it's been. We again have had to 'stake down' the small children and dogs to keep them from blowing down the beach.
We've clearly been tipping the meter in the mid 30's almost every afternoon....with no end in sight to the weather pattern......So for all of you getting ready to come on down...be ready for the BLAST of nice warm wind when you step off the plane here in Porlomar...(That means you... Timbo,Roger, the Binders, Lynn & Ginny, Beacher, Georgann, Beacher Jr. & Laura..etc.) We're looking forward to seeing all of you ...old friends as well as new faces. ....Anyway...Gotta go..........More Later ....T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the Rockin, Jammin Vela Margi Team February 04, 2007
Happy Super Bowl Sunday!!!!Hope you're all Happy and Healthy. (We know many of you are freezing your 'cajones' off.) Just think, you could be down here in Margi land...sunny, warm and windy. Gerry, who runs the Beach bar directly in front of Vela, will be doing a Sup Bowl party today....Big, Flat screen TV...finger snacks...and no doubt....bo-coo Happy hour beers and other cocktails flowing.... The wind continues to be fantastic. Again, haven't had a down day since last report. It's safe to say minimum of low 20's on the lighter days, but most days peaking mid afternoon 25 - 35 on the outside....Tony, our General Manager from our head office in Hood River, was here for 3 days. He was on a 5.0 and J.P. .....78 ltrs. and totally wound up...all 180 pounds of him. He said he could have easily been jammin with a 4.7. He left this morning to check on our center in Los Roques. I'm sure he'll have a great time there. ....Reservations continue to come in...I suggest you make your plans/reservations sooner than later.
We'll look forward to seeing you all.
GO BEARS !!! GO BEARS !!! (If you didn't know, Kath and I are both from Chicago)....Anyway....More Later......T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the Rockin Marg / Team Vela. January 25, 2007
Greetings People from down here in 'Majical Margi World'...Home of some of the greatest windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions in the world. ...The season is cranking up...as it should this time of year. Yesterday was a perfect example...Guys were on 4.5 - 5.2's, gals obviously a meter or so smaller. Beautiful dark blue water with a frothing white mess of whitecaps dancing along to the 'beat'. Incredible!! Today (Thursday) it's only 10:30 and it looks as though we'll have the same program this afternoon. Had a few mid - night showers over the past week or so, but they didn't seem to affect the wind 'Gods'. Nice to hear the pitter - patter of the rain in the night and wake to a beautiful fresh, sunny day.
Had 9 new arrivals today....some old friends and some 'new-bies'...all looked mystified and in awe....The center and all of our great equipment,
the beach, the whitecaps already brewing, the palm trees rustling in the wind......AAAhhhhh....And you wonder why I call it 'Majical Margi World'.......Anyway, if you haven't already done so, check your schedule, call vela and book your fantasy dream windsurfing vacation with us here at Vela Margarita.....We'll be looking forward to seeing you all soon......
More Later....T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the 'Rockin VelaMarg Team'. January 14, 2007
Yo People.....Hope all is well where ever you are.....Lot's of strange weather all over the World / US.....
Anyway, life is GREAT here in Margi world.....we're getting more and more full by the day....not full at the moment but looking at our most recent RES update....We will be getting close to full soon.....No problem because we have more equipment than ever in our 14 years of operation.......Finally delivered a bunch of new equipment to Los Roq....and a nice load being prepared to send to Coche this week....Exxxxxxelenteeee!!!!!
Wind has again been unusually good for this time of year. Granted we have had occassional 5 minute showers, on a few days....wind is still here. Most days still peaking in the afternoon in the mid 20's +, on the outside. People are stoked to say the least.........Spaces are filling up daily, so make your res sooner than later. .....The forcast looks good.....so expect great conditions (as always).........Same Vela Team, Same service, Same family feeling here at 'The Hot Spot Of Windsurfing' ....Commonly known as 'Vela Margarita' !!!!
Looking forward to seeing all of you soon!!!!!
More Later....T-Bone, Kath and the rest of 'Team Vela' December 27, 2006
Ho Ho Ho....Hope you all had a Happy Holiday with family and friends. We were pretty mellow....although we did have our traditional/ annual Christmas Eve Champagne / Toast out front of the center... with lots of snacks .....hor d'oeuvre's......Guac, chips, vegies.....and more Champagne....The other cool part was there were about 50 people....including Ricardo Campello (Number 1 Freestyler in the world for the past 3 years) and the number 3 in the world (Cheo) ....as well as a couple of the most famous and drop dead gorgeous Venz models...... OUCH!!!!Needless to say all the clients were in awe.....Tons of pictures and autographs.....Pretty COOL!!!!.....Tonight we have our annual
Christmas dinner with just staff......Wind has been good ...a bit light today but the past days have been in the 15 - 25 zone....People are happy....Lot's of new 2007 equipment hitting the rack daily.....Center looks amazing.......Looking forward to seeing you all.........More Later.....Have a happy New Year.....Cheers from Tommmy Boy, Kath and the rest of the Jammin Vela Marg team!!!!! December 02, 2006
Yo People.....Do you want the good news or the bad news.......HHHHHHaaaaaa
There is no bad news,,,,,Wind has been really good.....our container ships tommorrow....supposedly arriving on the 7th.....Lot's of cool new toy's for you all to enjoy....Lot's of reservations coming in ......so book sooner than later......The Yaq is jamming.....you won't believe it as you come into town........Looking forward to seeing you all.......
More Later.......T -Bone, Kath.....and the rest of the freaks. November 20, 2006
Hey People......Long time no hear....
kath and I just returned to Margi (Home). Spent the last 2 weeks in Miami inventoring and organizing all the new cool toys for all of you. All systems look good....Seems as though our container will ship this next Saturday....arriving with in the next 6 days. .....The center is rocking....all the same friendly faces.....and all new bitchin 2007 boards and sails....EEEEEHHHHAAAAA.
Also, wind has been really good. Most days at least 18 - 22......happy people to say the least. If you haven't already done so.....book your trip ASAP.....we will be full, and we don't want to miss any of you guys.
Looking forward to seeing you all.....
More Later.....T & K and the rest of the Vela Freaks!!!!!
October 12, 2006
Yo Friends......Life is good here in Margi......Wind has been amazing for this time of year.....today is a bit lighter, but the past few weeks have been rockin.....Last Sat we had winds in the mid 30's.....prior to that we were having consistant winds in the low to mid 20's.........
Love to continue to see all the new reservations for 2007.........Kath and I head back to the states for a few weeks of family time and then to Miami to make sure all 'you're' cool new gear is ready for you......locked & Loaded in the container......EEEEHHHHAAAAAAA..........Also, for those of you have been here before.........Take a deep breath as you enter 'the Yaqu'......the town looks amazing.....everything just keeps getting better and better.......
That's it for now......Hope all is well with all of you.......Looking forward to seeing you.........
T-Bone, Kath & Team Vela Margi........More Later August 28, 2006
Hey 'Ya all'.....Yup, we're still here....it's been a while, but better late than never....First off, wind has been decent....normal conditions for this time of year....a mixture of light wind days with some really good days. Seems as though everybody is happy. People have also been taking advantage of our kayaks for some morning exercise before the wind kicks......Other news....our new 2007 equipment has been ordered and is in route as we 'speak'....Kath and I will be in Miami early November to sort things out with hopes of a pre-Thanksgiving delivery.....The guys continue to 'buff out' the center to make it even better than you remember...Also the town has made some amazing improvments....re-paved the entire road into town....added curbs and sidewalk's....lights....a new town 'square'....new basketball / soccer zone.....not to mention the new 'Wind Guru Cafe' / El Yaque Club (luxury accomodations with roof top pool etc.).....On another note, this past weekend we had the 6th Annual Coche Kayak
crossing. Competitors paddling from El Yaq to the up wind (East) end of coche, rounding the corner, continuing across the south side of Coche to over-night at Coche Speed Paradise Hotel (Home of Vela Coche as well as Vela Dare2 Fly) and then the final leg back to the 'Yaq' the next morning. About 20 Km's in total. OUCH!!! Also had a windsurfing speed competition on Sat and Sunday. Lot's of action here....especially for this time of year......COOL MON !!!!!
And last and CERTAINLY not least....we are seeing lot's of new reservations coming in for next year. GOOD IDEA!!
I have a feeling we'll be full this next season like last....Looking forward to seeing you all.... Karl & Amy, Beecher & Georgeann w/ their 2 young cuties, Scott and Samantha, Swede and Marcie.....etc. I suggest that you all start checking your calenders and making your reservations.
You all know how we hate to turn away our long time clients / friends due to being over-booked early.....take a few minutes and make the move........Anyway, hope and trust you're all happy and healthy, and can't wait to see you all this up-coming season.....(and Karl, leave the wind 'killer' at home....you know what I mean....and I don't mean Amy. (can you say G.Animal?) But I am really just kidding)..........That's it for now.........More Later T & K and the entire 'Vela Margi Team'
June 26, 2006
Morning People......I guess it's 'Ground Hog' day / month. We've had great conditions since our last report. Couldn't order better conditions even if we could connect with 'Mother Nature'. Nice and flat with winds in the teens in the morning and then picking up virtually every afternoon to the mid to upper 20's. Guys typcally ending up on 5.0's, some afternoons into the upper 4's. Gals obviously lower 4's or smaller. .....El Yaque still pretty quiet....what a shame with the stellar conditions. Could be one of the best 'Junes' we've had.....Cool experience the other day. (Don't think I mentioned this before)....had a baby dolphin (maybe 3 feet long)swimming just off shore....literally about 25 - 30 meters off the beach directly in front of the Vela center. One of my buddies swam out and was able to get right up close and actually touching / petting the little 'Babe'. Very Cool.....Of course,Everybody on the beach scrambling for their cameras....Anyway, not much more news other than to suggest you come on down and take advantage of the lack of crowds and great wind.....More Later.......T & K and the entire 'Vela Team' June 02, 2006
YOY Freaks......Happy late Memorial Weekend......Everything here is Jammin',,,,,,,,,wind has been Slamming..few light days....but nearly every day 20 - 30 plus....Beach is quiet....need more sailors........tons of equipment......wind is ROCKING.
Make your 'res' and get on down here.
Com on down......T & K and the rest of the 'rockin 'Vela Team'..........More Later u April 22, 2006
Yo People's.....Hope you're all having a great start to your weekend. We here in Margarita are having a GREAT time. The crowds have dispersed....and the winds have kicked even harder. The last couple of days guys have been hanging on to 4.7's.....4.2's.....gals on everything between 2.9 and 3.7......WINDY !!!! We did have a tough time during 'Semanta Santa' / Easter week'... 'Spring Break'....whatever you want to call it.
It's a party / celebration week no matter where you go. We did have a REALLY busy time on the beach with many people coming from the mainland as well as many other S. American countries.....Why not....Margarita and specifically El Yaque have become some of the best known and most enjoyed destinations....lot's of COOl stuff going on. On the down side it did make it more challenging for our windsurfers to get in and out of the water. Fortunetaly 'Team Vela' rose to the occassion and literally carried nearly all clients equipment to and from the water during the 4 days of mayhem. Additionaly, due to the hazard and danger to the clients, we as well as nearly all other centers on the beach adjusted their operating hours to protect our/their clients. Our team agreed to open at 8 as opposed to 9:30, and close at 3:00....as the beach became uncontrolable, and very dangerous to kids swimming in the water, as well as unreasonable partiers on the beach. Bottom line is our clients lost 1 hour per day for 3 and 1 half days......all in the name of safety for our guest's. Thanks's to the majority of you for being so understanding of the situation which was entirely out of our control. FYI....next year we will close for the 3/4 days prior to Easter Sunday to avoid future problems.........Moving on.....Had a great time celebrating 'Marcie and Swedes' 20th anny(their 14th trip to Vela Margi.....we think that may be a record)....as well as 'Fred and Lana's' 13th anny on the same day....CONGRADULATIONS FRIENDS!!!!!
Also great thanks to our long term friends Lynn & Ginny......not to mention Sara & Linda.....and of course we cannot forget our 'Buddy' Neil....who always has nothing but positive input (ya right)......and a last thank you to Tim and Connie Walker......Always a pleasure and we soooooo much appreciate what you do for us (Vela Margi) as well as all our clients.....for those who don't know, you can check out all of Tim's photo's, video's and text on a daily basis during his 5 week Vela / Margi visit at "www.tts-inc.com". Lot's of really cool footage. .......I just took a break to check out the beach / water....it's a frothing mess of white caps.....OOOHHHH BBBAAAABBBBYYYYYYY......EEEEHHHHAAAAAAAA
Take care friends....and really looking forward to seeing our other friends coming soon (Karen C.,Mark,Courtny & son Gavin(3 yrs).....just 1 week from now....Also great to see Noel's face at the center...here for 26 days....Love it 'Bro'.........That's it for now people.....com on down and share in the fun, sun and wind.........More Later...... T & K and the "Vela Crew/family" April 02, 2006
WOOOHHHAAA....What can I say....Everyday windy as @%$#. Since my last report we have had every day 20 - 30....some days even more. When Tim Walker is on a 77 lt. board and 5.0 sail.....all 220 pounds of his 'bald' self.....that means WINDY!!
......Basically, everyday since last report has been rockin......20 - 25 - 30 - .......Other news....I planned a surprise B Day party for Kath's 49 th.... Absolutely the coolest party in 'Vela Margi' history....50 some people.....and literally friends from 2, 6, 8 years.....then Marcie and Swede
arrived mid-day......their 14th visit.
......Then Kath and I organized 'what We called 'Ground Hog(cause everyday is the same windy madness) / Hot Dog Day'.....we made over 60 Turkey Dogs .....with all the fixins. For sure a total success......all the clients were totaly stoked........Iv'e got lot's more news to share .......no time.......More Later Friends.......
Tom & Kath and the 'Vela Crew'
March 27, 2006
Yo Freaks.....Happy Monday to all.....
To the point.....CAN YOU SAY WINDY?????
The last few days have been scary windy...guys like Gerry and Brad (175 lbs.+) on 4.2's....whining like little girls....
Geeeesss.....One must also remember to wear the helmut to after sailing activies.....'Brad'...Can you say Happy Hour....Let's now give the Gals' equal time....Reggie's been jammin ...practicing fast tacks in the morning and perfecting her Duck Jibes in the afternoon. Not to mention the other 'Chicks'...Dogmar, Marilyn, Corrine, Donna, Connie, Marni, who are also giving the guys a run for their money....... Then Rich comes in today off the water after 1 run with a major blow to the head...(Hit his head on the mast)I took him directly to the clinic, literally 20 steps from the center and our local clinician took immediate control of the situation. ....Nice to have medicall assistance 30 seconds away.
Bottomline...IT' FREAKING WINDY.....30 - 35 + on the outside. No sails out of the center larger than 5.0. Gal's on 2.9's and 3.3's.....maybe 3.7....WINDY !!!!!!
More Later...........Tom & Kath and the rest of the 'Vela Team Margarita'
P.S. Sorry to see Lynn and Ginny leave yesterday....Great to have you guys here with us.
March 03, 2006
Hello people.....Everything going great down here. 'Carnival'ended this past Tuesday....Lot's of action and 'partying' on the beach...Live music...dancing on the beach....all good stuff......Wind has been really good. Every day for the past few weeks has been at least in the low 20's with many days in the low to mid 30's. The rain seems to have stopped and the wind has clearly kicked in....'Timbo' Walker arrived this past Tuesday....packing all his goodies and gadgets as usual. He's already been in the water taking pics of the guests with his new 8 MP cam. Check out his web page and see for yourself what's happening on the water......A few new options here in El Yaque....We now have a climbing wall here in town...and also a new Mt. Bike operation offering guided tours as well as just rentals. Also had the grand opening of a new 'high end' Cyber Cafe and Mini Mart / Deli at 'The El Yaque Club'...All nice new additions foe our little town.....By the way you may have heard about some....not all.. US flights / carriers having problems with flights to Venz ....it is true but I've heard they are in negotiations to get all flights back on schedule. Don't let the BS propoganda discourage you. American is still flying as well as Aeropostal and everything is totally fine down here....so make your reservations and come on down and share the fun, sun and wind with us.......More Later .....T & K and the whole Vela 'Gang' February 13, 2006
Happy early 'Valentines Day' people.....After a slow and wet (rainy) start to the season, it seems as though we are finally back on track. We have had daily afternoon winds in the mid 20's and up to low 30's. Everybody is stoked to say the least. And by the way, we have a new massage therapist, Belkis. (Marebel went back to law school)....but Belkis totally rocks. Every bit as good and maybe better..... So nice to see all the small equipment hitting the water !!!.....El Yaque is jamming....lots of you construction (mostly private homes).......Shooting video this afternoon......Thai Night up at Gerry's on Thursday.......'Mo Wind...Mo Fun...Mo Food.....Mo, Mo, Mo!!!
That's it for today.....More Later.......T & K and the entire 'Rocking' Vela crew.
January 13, 2006
Happy Friday the 13th!! We are REALLY happy and hammered here in the 'Yaq'.
Wind has been really good.... nearly every afternoon in the upper 20's. Peak gusts the last 4 days at 28 - 32 knt's. Everybody's happy....and in line for massages with Maribel. (I'll take the 5 0'clock tommorow.....no problem).....I was just looking off my deck ( a few hundred yards from the beach) .....white caps abounding....sailors and kiters ...all going OFF. EXCELLENT!!....Anyway, group dinner tonight and more rippin, jammin, jummpin tomorrow......Hope to see you all soon. More Later T-Bone, Kath and the rest of the 'Rockin Vela Margi Team'. January 06, 2006
A late 'Happy New Year' to you all. Hopefully you've had enough time to recover from all the Holiday cheer.
We have had a blast with all the clients....On New Years Eve, we enjoyed music, dancing and fireworks on the beach. Kath and I stayed until 1:00, but we hear the party continued till 6:00. OUCH!!
Anyway, the wind has been on and off. We've had a few great days with wind reaching the mid 20's and also quite a few moderate days only blowing in the 12 - 16 range. We have also had our fair share of moisture. Mostly an evening phenomenon, but a few rainy days as well. So far as wind, I was saying my 'good byes' to a few clients yesterday, and Larry mentioned to me among other things, what a great 2 week trip he and his gal, Becky, had had....and that he had planed every day and finally sorted out many of his problems such as cleaning up his sail flip and sailing up wind more efficiently. Granted, many of those days he was on larger equipment....but heh...planing is better than complaining. .....The forcast looks promising. We have a large cold front approaching from the East, and after that passes we should start to see our regular wind, sun and fun pattern kick in. .....Anyway, if you haven't made your reservations yet you had best sit down with your calender and phone and make it happen. We'll be looking for you. More Later Tom, Kath and the rest of the 'Rockin' Vela Margi team December 14, 2005
Hello People......Everything is going great down here. Our equipment was finally delivered last week after numerous delays....better late than never. The center looks amazing with all the new 2006 gear.
Everyone seems to be loving the new 'stuff'.....Wind has been on and off.....still some evening showers from time to time (keeps everything green and fresh). Last week we had official high wind and wave warnings.
They were predicting wind up to 35 with 4 ft.+ waves. We had good wind but not above the mid 20's and waves maybe 2 - 3 ft....but no complaints....it was a riot....lots of happy smiling faces coming off the water as they stood in line to schedule their massages with Maribel.
Kath and I had one yesterday...I had forgotten how amazing she is. .....Well the forcast looks good as does the 'Sat' picture....bookings are coming in fast....looking forward to seeing you all down here soon.....By the way, I spoke with Tim Walker the other day. He will be here (for the 10th year in a row) from Feb. 28th through the first week of April (Connie will join him for the last 2 weeks) Anyway, he will be bringing all his gadgets including his new camera....he'll be doing the same as the last few years.....taking tons of pics of all you guys for you, the web page as well as next years brochure. I just thought I'd mention his dates so those of you who know Tim, can schedule your trips accordingly (either to overlap his dates....or maybe to avoid them...Just kidding Tim). Anyway, enough for today.....got to get down to the beach........More Later T & K and the Boyz December 04, 2005
Hey Friends.....just a quickie...Wind has been OK this past week. Again not blowing 30 like it will be soon.. but still we had at least 4 days of low 20's in the afternoon 'sesh'. .....Update on the new equipment....slight problem with customs and documents (Geee, something new for a change.....again can you say 'palm grease')....anyway the good news is all is on track and we'll be unloading the container and rigging tommorrow.....we all are really excited to break out the new gear. ....
Lots of new reservations again this week.....keep them coming guys....
We did have some rain 2 nights ago, and also woke to some rain this morning, but the 'sat' picture looks good for tommorrow etc......That's it for today....have a good week and make your reservations sooner than later. More Later 'The T-Freak, Kath and the 'Boyz' November 24, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving people!! It's been a while but, hey, what can I say? What I can say though is 'OUR SHIP HAS ARRIVED!!! Kath and I got back from the states last week ....family visits as well as organizing and supervising the equipment ordeal. Anyway, the ship pulled into port late last night and we expect to see the container on our doorstep early next week...EEEhhhhaaaa.
For any and all who are interested, come on down and practice your rigging skills. ....Wind has been decent...some days better than others of course...had a few days with mid 20's this past week...not bad for November.....Seeing lots of bookings coming in....COOL! The center looks fantastic....the guys totally jammed while Kath and I were away. The Vela Team absolutely 'ROCKS'.....So make your reservations and look forward to seeing your same good Vela friends...Bernie, Wuicho, Alex, Douglas, Enero, and Alexi Zabala will be back teaching for us part time...Kiting as well as advanced freestyle.....and of course Kath and Tom. More Later friends. Freaky T-Bone and the Vela gang June 24, 2005
Morning people....Happy late Father's Day (only 5 days late). Everything down here is great, albeit somewhat quiet. Today will probably be a little busier as it's a Venezualen holiday.... We have about 15 clients right now, which again is typical this time of year. Have 5 people heading to Los Roques in a few days.....Woke this morning to a beautiful 'Blu Bird' day. A few puffy clouds over the mountains and a sea of white-caps. It is now 10:00 AM and already blowing in the upper teens - lower 20's. That's what we've mostly seen in the past few weeks. Sure we've had a few cloudy and light wind days here and there...but no complaints.......Kath and I are working hard now putting together the finishing touches on our equipment and retail orders for next season.....anticipating another great year of wind, sun and fun. Can't wait to see you all....sooner or later....still recieving reservations for July, August not to mention next year......COOL 'MON'.....Well that's it for today...back to the 'grind stone'. More Later T & K, B, A, W, E, N, J. May 15, 2005
Happy Sunday to you all !! And indeed it is a great day here in 'Majical Margi'. We' had a wonderful week of wind and sun. Every day has been fantastic with afternoon winds in the mid to upper 20's. Yesterday for example we saw the winds hit the lower 30's .....EEEEXCELLENT !!! I was talking to Paul (of Paul, Sohail and Matt) on the beach yesterday and he reminded me that in his 11 years of coming to Margarita he has NEVER had a day that he couldn't plane. Quite the testimony, Eh?....Had to say good-bye to Al and Nora. They love this place so much they bought a lot on the hill and are building their own little 'Casa'. Pretty cool I'd say.
.....Bernie has a few weeks of his vacation starting today...He deserves it for the great job he does. The rest of the guys will rotate their vaca's after Bernie returns. ....Anyway, the forcast looks like the pattern will continue...and remember it's never to late to book your trip......Tons of gear and nearly non-stop wind, sun and fun.....and I am out-of-here....off to the office...uh, I mean beach...I mean office...beach....Oh ya, they are one in the same. Got to love that. More Later T & K, B, W, S, A, E, J and E. May 07, 2005
Yo People....really quick ...super short....to the point....Wind seems to be back. EEEHHHH HHHAAAAA...3 days in a row of 20 - 25.....Sunny, warm and WINDY!!!!! Just the way we expect it. It's only 7:30 in the morning but already showing signs of another 'bitchin' blowin day. Damn, I love this place. Slam it in gear people and get on down here. Looking forward to seeing all you 'freaks' sooner than later. And I am 'out-o-here' More Later Big Tommy & Kath.....and the whole team of 'Freaks' May 03, 2005
Morning people....not much to report here from 'Magic Margi'...Wind has continued to tease and toy with us. We have had a few days that were pretty good giving us a few afternoon hours of planning conditions...18 - 22....Actually stayed open till after 6 a few days as the wind began to pick up quite late in the day.....didn't have the heart to make the clients quit. Once again the forcast appears to be bringing us better wind....today already is looking better....I'll keep you posted..... More Later T & K and all the 'Vela Margi Team' April 26, 2005
Buenes Dias people....Life is good but I cannot tell a lie. The wind dropped off after my last report. We had a few afternoons with a few hours of 20ish winds, but nothing like the previous 6 - 8 weeks. In fact this past saturday was unbelievably scary. 3 - 5 out of the WEST. OUCH!!! People for the most part have kept good attitudes.
Some opting for island tours, treks into the mountains, scuba and snorkling trips or tooling around on big boards / small sails.....Yesterday Kath and I needed to take matters into our own hands....so we went back to the beach after closing and bought all the clients drinks....many drinks. (Hopefully they will wake up this morning...having forgotten the past week).....On the bright side, the forcast looks good. Two different weather web sites are predicting a change for the better starting later today. We'll all be keeping our fingers crossed......And always remember....."A bad day in Margarita is still better than a good day in most other places." .....So it's probably a great time to come on down.......the mid-season lull is over and the bigs winds are on the horizon.
Vamos amigos....Lets rip!!!!!!..... OK....And I am ought of here. More Later folks. T-Bone, Kath and the entire 'bitchen' Vela staff. April 17, 2005
Well, the trend continues. We still have not had a single down day since the wind started. Same deal as last report.....20 - 25 - 30 - 35 - with peak gusts on my 'wind-o-meter'over the past week.....38, 39 and 40. Yes you are reading clearly. Need I say more about the wind ? .....Other news...had to bid a sad farewell to Tim and Connie yesterday morning...can't thank Tim enough for not only all the time and energy he puts into promoting Vela and El Yaque, but also for being such a good friend.
Who else would offer to buy and deliver a new laptop from the states....not to mentions the half a suitcase of 'Turkey Jerky'. (Bummer...down to 1 or 2 packs.) One last reminder...you can check out the daily account of 'The Adventures of Stumbalina at Vela / Margarita' at "www.tts-inc.com".....text, pics and vid clips. Definitely worth checking out. ......Also had to say 'good bye' to many other great friends this past week....Jerry, Jim, Brad, Brian, Mike, Randy & Claudia, Marcel & Janine...just to name a few. Love all you guys. On the bright side, just had 17 new clients arrive in the past few days....Linda, Neal, Swede & Marci, Karl & Amy and of course Marilyn. So where are the rest of you Miami 'freaks'? (You know who you are Jer, Jay, Carrie, Mike, Rich etc.).....
Anyway folks, life is great down here in Margarita paradise...Sunny, Warm and windy as #*^@. Come on down.....we'll be waiting. More Later T-Bone, Kath and the rest of 'Team Vela / Margi' March 26, 2005
Hey people...Hope all is well on the home front. We've had a great stretch of windy days here in Margarita. Ever since it kicked in about 6 weeks ago, we've been solid. Not a day has gone by that we haven't seen afternoon winds in the mid 20's. Many days have peaked in the upper 20's to lower 30's. I now remember why we have have been here for 12 years....We have 2 more days of 'Semana Santa'...YIKES!!!
Then we'll have our beach back. The crowds have been bigger than ever. Luckily, our 'boyz' figured out how to make it work. They built two 'walls' with masts and yellow 'caution' tape...about 6 feet high, thereby creating a corridor to and from the water. It has worked beautifully.... Even though the beach is really crowded, it is interesting to see all the people enjoying themselves.....Maik came in the other day with his eyes bulging out only to tell me he was sailing with a huge group of dolphins...at least 100..probably more. VERY COOL!!!! I've see small groups of maybe 8-10 but never soooo many.....And yup, 'Stumbalia' (Tim Walker) is 'in the house'. He arrived on schedule and has been posting his reports on his web page. You can check out the daily activities.....text, photos and vid clips by going to "www.tts-inc.com".
And another reminder....Karl, from our office in California, informed us that April and May are filling up quickly....so you best make your reservations sooner than later...Anyway, that's the news from here in sunny, windy 'Margi-land'. Hope to see you all soon....More later....... T & K and the rest of 'Rockin team Vela/Margi' March 10, 2005
Yo people.....time to wake up and smell the white-caps. Can't believe it's already March 10th. Well the wind has been quite good since last report. Most afternoons have been in the low to mid 20's with a few days low 30's. The pattern hasn't exactly been normal as some days we'll have stronger winds in the morning only to lighten-up mid day and then kick back in for a few hours later in the afternoon. As you all know the norm would be lighter in the morning and continuously building throughout the day. But hey, we'll take wind however we can get it. Nancy, a 13 year veteran and one of my tennis 'buds' told me she has sailed 12 or 13 days straight on 5.0 or smaller. (She's about 130 lbs.) Lynn and Ginny headed to Los Roques for the last 4 days of their trip....A spectacular way to wind down. Wade, Cathrin, Bob and Larry arrived today and Eric, Caroline and their 2 kids are coming to the end of their trip.....Not to mention Reggie who finally got her act together and snuck on down. People coming and going literally everyday. Bottom line...good wind, great people, killer equipment, fun staff, warm water, sunny skies....need I say more. Don't put off you plans.....wouldn't want any of you to be left out......Lastly, another reminder 'Stumb-o-lina the Terminator' (Tim Walker) comes to town in a few days, so keep an eye out for his daily postings of text, pics and video clips......Alriiighty then, I am out of here. More Later.......T-Bone-the-Freak, Kath and the rest of the 'Bitchen margi team' February 26, 2005
Good Morning people.....The wind is slowly getting better. We've had little or no rain and the basic wind pattern seems to be taking a turn for the better. This morning we are already seeing winds in the low 20's and I suspect it will only get stronger. Tony, from the Vela head office in California is here for a few days....always nice to have him drop in....Lynn and Ginny are here as are John and Shirley....I could go on and on....suffice it to say we've got a great bunch of re-turnies as well as more new-bies....also, just a reminder,
Tim and Connie Walker will be coming down in a few weeks ...so you can look forward to checking out Timbo's daily reports and pic's for his 5+ weeks starting about the 15th......So still don't see your name on the res update Reggie....You had best stop procrastinating (hope your back is better).....Anyway....looks like we're back on track...so come on down and enjoy the 'fruits' of the 'Wind Gods'....That's it for today....I'm going to head out to the beach and shoot some video....looks like perfect conditions.......Hope to see you all soon. More Later ......T-Bone, Kath and the rest of 'Margi Vela Team' February 05, 2005
Hey people....Well we've had a slow start this year but it's looking better by the minute. Last few days have been dismal to say the least. A light breeze yesterday morning but gradually dying off only to pick back up late in the afternoon. Today almost looks like the real Margarita. We woke to the 'good-ole'Trade Winds this morning and a sea of whitecaps....EEEHHH HHAAAA !!!!!! Almost forgot what it looked like. I truly feel like this is the start of the real and normal Margi season....FINALY. I'm writing this from the comfort of my beach-side office....hearing lots of happy people coming and going....dropping down in board and sail size....No doubt we'll be hearing alot of whining tonight ....sore muscles...blistered hands etc....Looks like Maribelle will be busy with massages. Today is the start of Carnival and the festivities have already begun. It should be a fun 4 days.......A few reminders folks...our office as informed us that we are becoming 'sold out' during a few periods.....so you had best stop procrastinating and make your reservations....THAT MEANS YOU REGGIE...get off your 'bark-o-lounger' and make the call baby.....(That's as nice as I'm gonna be until I see your name on our res list dear)Just got our 'Res' update and once again...tons of new reservations....a nice mixture of long time friends as well as 'newbies'......And I will say again...the center looks absolutely unbelievable....tons of 2005 JP's and over 130 N.P rigs just waiting for you all. All-righty-then.....I'm off to check out the action on the water....a dirty job...but someones gotta do it. Looking forward to seeing you all.....And I am outta here. More Later Freaky-T-Bone, Kath and the rest of 'Team Vela Margi' January 28, 2005
Yo People....Hope all is well where ever you are...we're GREAT!! Wind seems to have returned....rain has backed off...Thank goodness....Slow start to the season..but better later than never...last few days have been sunny, gorgeous 'Blue Bird' skies and wind kicking into the mid 20's in the afternoon. We expect the trend to continue...if not get better. 'COOL MON'....And yes...the center looks spectacular...Newest equipment on the beach....and lots of it...got to see it to believe it. The full rack of 2005 JP's is totally bitchin. (Don't worry Timbo...we've saved some old stuff for you to trash this year.)....Also, another reminder....tennis players and golfers....we've got a few nice Prince racquets (for your use) and a few different court options...clay or Hard Tru...and the golf course looks better than ever due to our unusually rainy year.....Anyway....looking forward to seeing you all....I noticed on this weeks reservation update....tons of new bookings in the past week....Cool.!! Well, that's it for now....gonna go shoot some video and maybe do a wee-bit of 'test driving'....Part of the job...some-ones got to do it....Please....come on down...we need help testing. More Later....'Freaky Tommy-T-Bone', Kath and the entire 'Margi Team'
December 31, 2004
Hey People.....Hope you all had a Merry Christmas.....and will have a safe New Year celebration tonight. Once again it's been awhile, but don't worry...we're back up and running....So what's new in Margi ????
Well, we just received our container this week....WOW !!!! Tons of cool stuff. We got all the boards on the rack by the end of yesterday, as well as about 20 sails rigged. Lots more rigging going on today. The center looks absolutely unbelievable. As you may know we are 100% JP this year....and they look 'bitchin'. ALL the clients have been raving about how great they are. Also, after many weeks of very light wind and lots of rain...it seems as though the wind may be returning. Yesterday was a gorgeous 'blue bird' day with afternoon winds in the low 20's.....Lets hope it's a sign of the normal windy seasons arrival. Anyway....got to get going and help the guys rig. So make some calls and reservations and get on down here.... More Later Tommy-T-Bone and the whole Vela Margi Team |
