I've never flown, but there is no way that engine was at full throttle... it's like trying to merge onto the highway with a trailer without ever exceeding 1500 rpms... it just isn't going to happen...
Here's what that place looks like on a windy day http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LOSqSb2f4o&feature=related I don't think he'll get far with the gusty wind excuse, there's a wind sock 41 seconds into the vid just before he goes over the cameraman. I'd guess the wind at 5-10 knots, enough to push an idiot off the channel but not enough to wreck 99% of pilots lucky enough to fly a Beaver. He just didn't allow for a cross-wind.
