When the icy gales of December blow, forget this hockey business. With broken hockey sticks and a garbage bag, you can fly across the ice like a paleo fun-seeker with his mammoth rib rig. If you have awning scraps, or, heaven forbid, you buy a length of sailcloth, your ice sail will last longer.
Make an A shape out of three pieces of broken stick, drill holes, and bolt them together. Keep the bolt ends facing away from you and cover them with duct tape. (A high speed encounter with metal parts can be unpleasant.) An extra cross piece near the point makes a useful handle and gives better balance under full sail. Use a staple gun to attach the awning fabric/sailcloth/garbage bag. If you are using a garbage bag, the copious use of duct tape is advisable along the stapled edges.
“Ice” is derived from the Sanskrit word for “smooth,” according to author Wayne Grady. That is the kind of ice you want, and you will wear your skates. You’ll be surprised how fast you’ll go in a brisk wind. This experiment might have a Darwinian component, should you test the sail without first testing the ice. To avoid a frigid demise, stay off thin or bumpy ice, and remember that this sail will take you into uncharted territory quickly. Technique is up to you — just remember your tacks, jibe, scuppers, and poop decks, and you’ll do fine.
