I'm new to the sport, got lessons in Aruba, and loved it. Been wanting to get into kiteboarding for years, and now I finally think I can afford the time and money. I'll be kiteboarding on Long Island sound this summer out of Norwalk and Westport, CT, and maybe on Long Island and in Florida (East Coast) when I visit my fam down there. I have a new, never used, 2007 BEST Bularoo 16m kite and 2007 BEST Bar. also have the BEST 3m trainer kite. Still looking for the right board and harness. I'm 5 ft 11" and weight about 195 lbs. Conditions here on Long Island sound are pretty light winds (10-15 knots) and choppy. II am a good snowboarder and a decent wakeboarder (for only having done it a few times). I have zero friends that kiteboard, and there are no retail shops in my area (Stamford, CT) where I can go to look at gear or demo boards, so I'm stuck with the internet and counting on forums like this one for advise. With that said, I'm looking for a couple things
1) advise on a board to learn on that I will not outgrow quickly. a light wind board. again, 195 lbs and wind speeds (10-15 knots), more or less. would def consider second hand. From what I've learned, I think I need something from 139-145cm and 40-42 cm wide. Looking at Jimmy Lewis Model III (139 or 145) but way too expensive. want to get a board (complete w pads, straps & handle) for around $500...cant see spending $700 for a board setup for my first board.
2) General kiting resources or groups, especially in my area, Fairfield County, CT.
3) Looking for kiteboarders in Fairfield county to meet up with and ride over the summer and just to talk about the scene around here, good launch spots, etc.