Getting Back Into Windsurfing

Question
Hello,

Circa 1993, when I was 30 y/o and superfit, weighing 180 I was sailing an F2 Sunset Slalom fairly well; I could water start proficiently and was hitting about 1/2 my gybes.

Now I'm 47, weigh 215 and not superfit although not a total slug.  I have not windsurfed in 15 years.  Next week I'm going to give my old F2 a try.

What volume board and size sail do you think would fit my criteria?  My sailing would be on the East coast (NC - but not Hatteras); can count on consistent 12 - 15 knots.  I'm not interested in wave sailing, just want to blast around and carve a little bit.  I would be in the ocean some, the sound some.

Even when I was sailing regularly I had trouble staying upwind.  I'd like to be able to control that.

I'm also aware that equipment has changed dramatically.  There are board categories/terminology that I don't fully understand.

So what would you suggest for a middle aged guy like me?  All my gear is early 90s; is any of it worth keeping, even the booms and mast?

Thanks,
MWW

PS I was sorely tempted to ask you where to get parts but managed to control myself.

Answer
Go for it!  That board was great board in it's day!  For a person weighing 215 lbs. and somewhat proficient sailing, I would recommend a newer board in the 140 to 160 liter range.  140 for slightly stronger winds than 12- 15 MPH and 160 to 180 for 12- 15 MPH (not knots) Sail size for all around sailing should be around 7.5 to 8 M2.  You won't believe how many calories you will burn on a good session.  Build up your arms by doing pull ups so you won't be so sore when you start. Get a good pointer fin for best upwind sailing, however the newer board shapes and sails you will find are easier to sail upwind. Try to demo some boards and sails to see what really works for you but the above is a good starting point.
Good luck and good wind,
Patrick
BTW if you read my All Experts page you will see some links for parts shopping.
You would not believe how many requests I get from people that have beat up boards with missing parts.  The old boards never die they eventually just get passed around or sold to some poor soul.