I heard from a friend that a Kiter from billings was injured about two weeks ago. I was wondering if anyone can comment on this. It is always important to know what happened so that we can try to prevent it in the future.
Thanks,
Tony
Wed, 02/15/2012 - 10:58
#1
Injured Kiter. Billings?
The information I have is spotty but from good sources. The "kiter" was actually a friend of a beginner kiter. They thought it would be prudent to go out (with a foil kite) on one of those extremely gusty, high wind days at the local park in town where on a good day the wind is quite shadowed and gusty. Apparently, after a few seconds of instruction the kid (20 ish) strapped on the kite and started to fly.. The kite apparently lofted him (12 o'clock, i assume) and I'm sure he panicked (obviously didn't fly the kite) and the kite reportedly "folded up" and he fell "30 feet" (i doubt that high) out of the air on to his side and head, breaking his scapula and sustaining a closed head injury with traumatic brain injury.. 3 weeks in ICU and much more rehab time. Too bad, he will never be the same again. Is there a lesson to be learned here?
I'm saddened to hear about this poor guy. A one hour lesson would have made a kiter out of him. Now, he's likely never to touch a kite again. Unless he's built like Lewmt, who breaks his neck kiting and is now one of our hardest chargers!
I hope this guy heals well.