VIDEO RELEASE: Coast Guard rescues kite surfer near Vinoy Park 

Video Release

U.S. Coast Guard 7th District PA Detachment Tampa Bay Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Tampa Bay 305-965-4672 PA Detachment Tampa Bay online newsroom

Coast Guard rescues kite surfer near Vinoy Park 

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. —  The Coast Guard rescued a 42-year-old kite surfer Thursday in the entrance of the North Yacht Basin Anchorage near Vinoy Park.

Rescued was Jason Chavez from Riverview.

Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders received the call at 12:30 p.m. from good Samaritan stating there was a kitesurfer in distress near Vinoy Park. Watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast and diverted crew members aboard a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium from Station St. Petersburg to assist. 

At 12:45 p.m., the RBM boatcrew arrive on scene, transferred Chavez aboard and transported him to Vinoy Marina in St. Petersburg. No injuries were reported. 

“Tampa weather can change in an instant this time of year, especially during the afternoon, and Chavez experienced that as the wind died down while he was kite surfing,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer Timothy Abrams, officer in charge of Station St. Petersburg. “We urge all boaters and paddlers to review forecasts before taking to the water and carefully monitor the weather while underway.” 

Mariners can check the boating forecast at the National Weather Service or download the Coast Guard Mobile App. 

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-USCG-