The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Guide

Surf the Wind

By Anna Stevens

The Adventure: Gear up for windsurfing on Minneapolis’ Lake Calhoun with veteran wind surfer Jeff Adamski. Your three-hour beginner’s lesson will start on land with the basics, like learning to control your board. Once you hit the water, Adamski will go over getting up on your board, lifting the sail out of the water, and everything you need to know to start looking like you know what you are doing. The goal of your lesson: master the wind! By the end you should be able to sail out on your own and return to where you started. The adventure does not have to stop there. Adamski’s Wind4Life also offers two-hour advanced lessons for when you are ready to perfect your windsurfing skills. Boards for beginners are provided. You may want to consider renting a wet suit depending on the weather.

Surfing Solo: Most people are able to go out windsurfing on their own after their very first lesson. Adamaski says that the inexpensive sport is a great way to stay in shape. While he starts beginners out on lighter wind days, Adamaski says for true adventurists: “The more wind the better!”

What We Wrote About It (Jennfier Koski, July ‘07): “...Once I had the hang of it, Jeff left me to practice on my own while he set up a second board. Sailing over the water, the breeze in my hair and the sun on my back, I could see how windsurfing could be addicting.”

Where You Go: Varying locations (depending on wind) on Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis.

What You Pay: $180 for beginner class. Two-hour advanced lessons are $120 with your own board, $150 if you use Wind4Life’s equipment. Call Wind4Life to learn about discounted children’s lessons.

Find Out More: 763-441-1521; www.wind4life.us