thanks everyone... I have a much better idea of what to look for and how much to spend... I did make it into the OR shop and spoke with John Z. there are some good deals there and a nice new kite or board is still fairly reasonable... just gotta convince the girl that I need it!
Lessons are the big priority at the moment and cash will be going into a session with Marty at Strong!
New gear is great but realistically I have many different areas to spend cash and the T Bird is not getting any younger so will be hauling her out and painting the bottom / topsides... BOAT Bring Out Another Thousand!

I hope that everyone can give me some ideas for helping host a kite / windsurfing event at Cook on behalf of RVYC... the yacht club sounds pretty gun ho in helping out with boats and race officials. I will try to email the Squamish YC and get ideas from them... a nice reaching course for the kites and windward / leeward for the windsurfers?? jump through the gates for kites.

also read the racing rules of sailing!