Page 70 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2016

KITESURFING story by Lynn Lofton This sport is really taking off photos courtesy of Dan Nichol and Russell Groves
ABOVE: Local Dan Nichol is one of a growing number of kite surfers on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Windy days along
the shoreline bring out kite surfers
to ride the waves providing thrills for them and pleasure
for spectators as they watch the graceful kites floating through the air. Kitesurfing is increasing in South Mississippi as well as in other coastal areas around the world.
Gulfport resident Dan Nichol, a
former Navy officer, is one of a group of approximately 20 local surfers. He grew up in Pennsylvania and always wanted to surf. “It really isn’t hard work. You steer the kite with your arms and the force goes through the harness,” he says. “All ages who’re in good shape can do it. Anyone interested should come down to the beach and talk to any of us.”
Others active with kitesurfing include Tommy Wittmann, who sells the equipment, Cody Holliman, Marco Wolf, Sonny and Dena Ellis, Russell Groves and Griffin Sheridan.
Nichol, 29, has been kitesurfing three years and credits others in the group for helping him. Lessons are recommended and it generally takes a few months to get fully involved. Initial startup gear costs $1,500 to $2,000 for the kite, board and harness. “Once you pay for it, that’s it,” he said. “If you take care of it, it will last for years. And, you never have to put gas in it or pay green fees.”
Locally, kite surfers average three days a week in the spring that are suitable for surfing, and one day each week in the summer and winter. Nearby Dauphin Island, Ala., has more windy days throughout the year for surfing.
“It’s really neat out there. It can be
as calm and peaceful as you want or
you can do crazy tricks and jumps,” Nichol said. “When I’m out there, I’m so engaged with the board and kite that I’m not really worried about the rest of the world. I do recommend it.”
Nichol is even teaching his rescue
dog Isabelle to accompany him on the kitesurfing board.
70 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • May 2016
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