KEVIN PRITCHARD – AN AWT YEAR IN 5 MINS
Kevin Pritchard takes you through his year on the 2014 American Windsurfing Tour. From Santa Cruz to Pistol River, Peru, Baja, Cape Hatteras, and finishing up in Maui Hawaii, Pritchard manages to win the AWT PRO Overall for 2014.
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THE LOW-DOWN
The Futura sits in between the ionic slalom and speed lines and the AtomIQ and Carve Freeride boards in the Starboard collection. Supplied with Drake Venom 42 Tuttle box fin.
BRAND CLAIM
“The Futuras are Starboard’s freerace boards. Freerace boards are designed to go extremely fast, like slalom boards, but with more user-friendliness and more comfort. They are the sports cars of windsurfing”.
PERFORMANCE
We thought we’d tested this model in hectic conditions last year in the U.K., but this trip was a whole different ball game! Now up against some newer rivals, it was interesting to see how this Carbon 111 would fare? Well the early planing and acceleration are still there and strong against the competition. (Although this time the lightest wind we had it in was about 18 knots!) As is the super-smooth comfort and control that the thin rails provide, largely due to the wide-tapering-into-thin tail. But it’s the gybing nature that’s the pièce de résistance of this shape. OK, it’s not the most manoevrable, but the glide and momentum out of turns is superb and it’s possible to easily, efficiently pull-off a good range of tight, wide and hooked arcs with changes of direction not being too much of an issue. In El Médano’s mix of swell and chop we found a little bit of nose slap (we’d have liked a longer mast track really in such an extremely challenging sea state), finding it slightly harder to fully let it fly than before, but generally it’s still pretty amazing when sailed super broad and more like a dedicated racing board this way than a ‘reach-back-and-forth’, pure blasting product. (GPS sailors take note.) Generally we think this size still likes sails with the draft a little further back, although you’ll need to tweak that mast track to control the liveliness and prevent unwanted spinout at the top end of the range, which is probably around the 30 knot mark with a 36 or 38-cm. fin – although, in fairness, Starboard do recommend that you need three fins to cover the range of this model. (30 knots is a more than respectable top-end for an 111L board using the standard fin!) More traditional draft-forward sails do pressure the back foot a lot, so bear this in mind when matching up your choices. Our major point on the wish list would be for the margin between the inboard and outboard strap options to be a little greater, to leave some growing room for less experienced riders to be able to squeak that extra bit of speed out of it once they’ve reached the required level. The inboard setting is fine for intermediates, but more accomplished riders might benefit from the straps nearer the rails. All-in-all this is one hell of a sweet stick still that offers performance that’s pretty close to a specialist slalom board but with the suspension, ride and cornering of a luxury touring car.
THE VERDICT
Smooth, forgiving, sweet to gybe, satisfyingly fast off the wind. The Futura’s still a luxurious and refined-feeling board that delivers heaps of control and allows you to concentrate on reeling in your rivals.
For more information on the
STARBOARD FUTURA 111L CARBON 2014
go to www.star-board-windsurfing.com
Other boards in this test:
Back to 110L Freerace test intro page
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Windsurfing here in Bonaire is like skiing to the Alps or surfing to Hawaii and the likes of Kiri Thode, Tonky and Taty Frans are the island’s ambassadors who’ve helped put this island on the worldwide map of windsurfing. I’m here for four days to explore this Caribbean windsurfing paradise, one of the spiritual homes of freestyle windsurfing. With Kiri and Taty my guides for the duration, I’m pretty sure there’ll never be a dull moment!
Words & Photos JOHN CARTER
(This feature originally appeared in the August 2014 issue of Windsurf Magazine. To read more features like this first, Print and Digital subscriptions are available. Prices include delivery globally for 10 x issues a year!)
BON VOYAGE!
KLM are the main carriers to Bonaire with flights in February, via Amsterdam, clocking in at around £700 return from London. Passengers are allowed a 23-kilo bag, plus the normal hand baggage allowance. After that an extra bag is £66 pounds if you prepay and £80 at check in. With two bags of camera equipment, I thought I might be able to wing it at the desk, but the policy was very strict in either direction, so the extra fee was a nasty sting in the tail. Aside from their extortionate baggage policy, the journey with KLM was relatively simple, with the short hop over to Amsterdam followed by an eight-hour flight, with a quick touchdown in Aruba before the final destination.
Finally I arrive in Bonaire and immediately find myself automatically slowing down to the islands relaxed pace the moment I step off the plane and am hit by the warm, balmy breeze. Bonaire is one of what are known as the ‘ABC Islands’, (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao) and is located a mere 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela. The island is around 24 miles in length and varies between three and seven miles in width, with most of the landscape flat and the highest peak just 240 metres above sea level.
Kiri and Taty are outside to greet me, both fired up because the forecast looks awesome for the duration of my stay. In fact the wind has been blowing here every day for the past two months – but that’s nothing new in the windswept Caribbean, where the trades reliably blow throughout the European Winter. After a 10-minute drive from the airport, we arrive at the Sorobon Bay Resort, the only hotel situated directly on the shores of the lagoon.
Sorobon Beach Resort is based next to the Jibe City windsurf station and, according to its literature, sits on one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the Caribbean. The resort boasts its own private beach, with shaded cabannas and lounge chairs and has 30 comfortable cottages that sleep between two and six people. It’s dark outside, so I’ll have to wait until the morning before I can properly check out my surroundings, but the accommodation is awesome and I can hear the water lapping on the beach outside. I’m pretty certain I’m going to be pleasantly surprised come sunrise.
“IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A FAST-PACED PARTY DESTINATION WITH WILD BARS, HIGH RISES AND CHEESY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS, THEN BONAIRE IS NOT THE PLACE FOR YOU”
READY TO ROCK
I wake up early, just in time to stumble 50 bleary-eyed metres to the water’s edge and watch in awe as the sun climbs up above the horizon through a bank of puffy, pink Caribbean clouds. I’m certainly not disappointed by my surroundings, with the resort bang on the water, right in front of the main sailing area. The wind’s already rustling the palm trees, white capping the water and there are a few early birds already heading out for a pre breakfast session. It looks like it’s shaping up to be another perfect windsurfing day here in this flat-water paradise. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the colours of the water just turn brighter and brighter, from azure blue to almost transparent turquoise. The lagoon is like a huge swimming pool, waist deep for over a kilometre offshore and, if you ever want to teach your wife or kids windsurfing, this has to be the perfect destination. You have to experience this place first person to really appreciate the amazing colours and I’m already excited at the prospect of shooting two of the world’s best freestylers in this astonishing oasis of transparent water. Kiri and Taty roll up casually around 9.30 a.m., Caribbean style, both tapping away on their phones as they weigh up the conditions. “Yeah man” shouts Kiri, “Full power today!”
ACTION!
Within half an hour we’re out on the water with Kiri and Taty throwing down tricks in the 15-20-knot trades. It almost seems effortless for Kiri to spiral through his array of tricks and, even through the lulls, he’s able to pump onto the plane and nail amazing, contorted manoeuvres right in front of my camera. Taty is known more for his aggressive, power style and hurtles through his moves with clinical precision. The skill and complexity of what these guys can do in flat water is simply mind blowing. It’s hardly surprising that these guys have become so talented with this incredible location as their home backyard, but it‘s also taken endless hours on the water, effort and dedication to turn all that practise into perfection.
Nowadays the Island has an established clientele of windsurfers from all over Europe and the US, who come here for its incredible conditions. This year’s PWA event in June further endorsed this islands commitment to promoting their premiere asset. Bonaire is one of those places people fall in love with and end up coming back year after year, many for months rather than weeks! If you’re happy blasting around in a flat water paradise, or a young gun freestyler who wants to improve through time on the water, alongside quality accomplices, then it’s a pretty laidback place to hang out and enjoy the conditions.
Out in front of the Sorobon Resort, the wind is predominantly onshore, but the beauty of this arena is that you can simply head off and explore any given spot in this huge windsurfing playground. To the left of the Sorobon Resort and two windsurf centres, the headland juts out and then wraps around in a semicircle, where the wind blows almost dead offshore and is mirror flat. This is one of the favourite spots for the freestylers evening session, plus the crowds can also watch the action as the sailors slip and slide in this freestyle heaven.
JIBE CITY AND BONAIRE WINDSURF PLACE
In front of the main sailing arena next to the Sorobon Resort are Bonaire’s two windsurf centres, Jibe City and Bonaire Windsurf Place. These well-equipped centres will cater for all your needs, in terms of equipment rental, lessons and a cool place to hang out and watch the action. Jibe City offer the latest selection of boards from JPAustralia, Fanatic and Exocet, with fully rigged sails from Severne, NeilPryde and MauiSails. They also have the ‘Hang-Out Bar’ with plenty of tables, sofas and sun loungers where you can chill, dine, drink and watch the action. The Bonaire Windsurf Place next door, which is run by Elvis Martinez, boasts an awesome range of rental equipment from Starboard, RRD and Hot Sails Maui. Both centres charge around $350 per week for a full package, which also includes snorkel rental and use of kayaks.
BOAT TRIP
Come our third day in Bonaire, Taty has a surprise up his sleeve and has organised a boat trip over to Klein Bonaire, a tiny uninhabited island right opposite the capital city of Kralendijk. At first I was sceptical about leaving one of the most amazing freestyle locations on the planet for a trip into the unknown, but I could tell by the way Taty was pleading that we might be onto something special. Once at the harbour in town, all of my worries were cast aside when Taty pointed out the boat we would be cruising in for the day, aptly named ‘Meal Ticket’. Although, once I laid eyes on this beauty, to me this ride was going to be more like a ‘Dream Ticket’. Prior to our outing, I’d been expecting us all in some tiny rowing boat with a clapped-out engine, but instead we were going in a pimp, three-story motor cruiser, with two huge outboards and room galore on board. In a word ‘luxury’, so, without any more questions, we loaded up the boat with all the gear and even threw in a cooler full of ice-cold beers for the return journey. All of a sudden this trip was coming together very nicely indeed!
Once outside the harbour, skipper Greg put the throttle down, the boat reared up on its hull and we were blasting towards Klein Bonaire in proper style. Five minutes later, after a short channel crossing, we were tying up to a mooring literally five metres from the shore of the island, in beautiful azure water with shoals of fish clearly visible mooching around below the surface. The island is pretty much pristine – with no inhabitants – and with its totally flat landscape, the wind has no obstacles and is free to blow right to the shoreline. Both Taty and Kiri were pumped up for a high-wind session and rigged on the front of the boat while I climbed up to the top platform to check out the view. Half an hour later, both sailors were yelling and shrieking as they exchanged manoeuvres all around the boat. With the water turning from deep blue into turquoise right off the mooring, there were plenty of cool opportunities to score some interesting images. Kiri was in his element, effortlessly throwing down every trick in his armoury, while Taty was focussed on the power-contorted moves. Midway through the afternoon, a speedboat cruised past laden with tourists and Taty took full advantage and busted a back loop off the wake. With the passengers on board all cheering for more, both Taty and Kiri took turns for a few runs each, nailing Konos and loops on our newly-found ramps. By the end of the afternoon, both Taty and Kiri were literally burned out of energy after both sailing full power for well over four hours and we headed back in the evening light all smiling after a wicked adventure to Klein and its marine environment. A few icy-cold Polar lagers never go astray in a situation like this and what better way to watch the sun go down than sipping a cold brew on a pimp boat out in the Caribbean?
FREESTYLE TRICKERY
My final day was windy first thing in the morning, before a lull around midday. Taking a quick stroll past Jibe City, I was lucky enough to catch local light wind guru Caesar Finies in action. Now this guy is a pure magician at light-wind freestyle and to see him spinning and throwing his sail around is pretty mind blowing to say the least. The question is often asked how to get more people into windsurfing and I can think of a lot worse ideas than to simply to stick this guy on a world tour to busy beaches to put on shows of what he can do in light winds. Caesar is a crowd puller, an entertainer, spectacular to watch and he only needs a few knots of wind. What he does looks fun, a challenge – and it’s all done on beginner kit. What more can you ask for?
AROUND BONAIRE
On my last afternoon, Kiri and Taty gave me a guided tour of the island’s coast road from Lac Bay round to the airport. Off the side of the road we were lucky enough to spot a few of thttp://www.windsurf.co.uk/wp-admin/post-new.php?post_type=featured#he island’s famous pink flamingos wading around in the salt flats. It may look like a flamingo has a knee that bends backwards, but what you are actually seeing is the bird’s ankle. More than 10,000 birds call the island home, many taking residence in an 135-acre sanctuary created by Cargill, the owners of the salt mines further round the track. Back in the 1600s, when the Dutch took possession of Bonaire, much of the island was a planation owned by the Dutch West Indies Company. It was during those years that African slaves were forced to work and grim reminders of these days still exist in this part of Bonaire in the form of slave huts, which were laboriously constructed by hand. Right at the southern tip of the island we drive towards huge, cone-shaped mountains the colour of snow – salt! Owned by the huge Cargill Corporation, salt is produced in Bonaire in the beds of Pekelemeer, where it’s exported by sea and used mostly for industrial purposes. The pyramids of salt are pretty spectacular to witness and I was hoping maybe we could snag a few sailing shots in the surrounding salt beds, but with warnings of possible arrest, we decided that perhaps it wasn’t such a great idea.
SUMMARY
If you’re looking for a fast-paced party destination with wild bars, high rises and cheesy tourist attractions, then Bonaire is not the place for you. This island is more your laid back Caribbean, with a tiny population of 12,500, a chilled vibe and unspoiled beaches. Lac Bay is a protected reserve and is without doubt one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the Caribbean. With knee to waist high crystalline water and balmy trade winds, it simply has to be one of the best places in the world to learn how to windsurf! It really is perfect for kids and, even if they don’t fancy windsurfing, the water’s shallow enough to wade out and explore. If you’re into skiing then imagine a wide, intermediate, safe and shallow slope, that’s pretty much what you get in Bonaire across the whole bay where the water is clear. If freestyle is your thing, then Bonaire will definitely not disappoint. Where else do you get to sail with the World Champion and some of the best freestyle, Bonaire is without doubt a place you could lose yourself for a few months, improve your sailing and escape the hustle and bustle of life in the fast lane. JC
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In this Buyers’ Guide we aim to walk you through the range of options available on the open market and channel you into a shortlist of items that might double, or even triple your amount of time on the water. Throw in a smattering of insight from our technique gurus Peter Hart and Jem Hall – plus former World Champion and wavesailing legend Scott McKercher – and the arguments start to stack up against the anti crowd.
So, what are the benefits of sailing a bigger board (that can, obviously, double-up as a regular SUP board), how can it transform your technique for stronger winds – and why should you be targeting one of these big bundles of joy as your next maximising time-on-water purchase?
JUST WHAT IS IT YOU WANT TO DO?
It’s time to ask yourself a few questions. There’s plethora of hard and inflatable construction options out there for a wide-ranging scale of use. Windsurfing and paddling the thing is a given, but what types of sailing and paddling is it that you want to do?
• Teach the kids and family friends?
• Go cruising?
• Ride Waves?
• All of the above?
Bar perhaps some of the pointier-nosed, displacement designs, you can more of less do everything in the list above on most boards. But there are some that lean more towards the wave and cruising ends of the spectrum than others.
Read on for sections on all of those and see what tickles your fancy.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Matching Boards and Sails
Some WindSUPs are sold in packages including a rig. With others, perhaps for those already into high-wind sailing, you just need the board and can use your smaller, wave sails for example, instead. Bar inflatables, it’s worth bearing in mind the implications of a 10-kg., five-inch-thick railed monster boshing against your 400-quid mast and favourite carbon boom. Yes, you can use bigger sails, but the small-sail-big-board combo is generally better and, in more powerful surf conditions, you’ll want a shorter mast to present less length to a growling, hungry lip anyway.
Straps
And what about footstraps? No, you won’t be busting out big aerials, but what about planing? Well, many WindSUPs are quite high rockered (curvier and therefore slower, underneath) and so planing might not be your priority, or even possible in quite light winds. (Say 8-10 knots when you’re probably looking at the water and thinking it’s a bit lumpy and wobbly for ‘straight’ paddling and the wind’s starting to become an issue even carrying the thing down the beach – yes, separate journeys old skool style!). Some of these boards will plane though, and there are a couple with strap options, but, again, don’t set your heart on that huge air off a closeout section.
Versus Big Wave Boards
The bigger, weightier boards however do have their advantages. Often the extra bulk can help in catching waves, but more importantly, it helps when punching out over the whitewater, especially if there’s an element of onshore wind in the mix.
(The Exocets and Konas have straps and are best at planing and barging out like this, whereas a large, or extra-large wave board, say over 100L, is probably a little lighter and will have less momentum over the foam.) Wave-oriented SUPs with a mast track are primarily designed for surfing use, but, with a bit of research into track placement, most manufacturers are selling even their higher performance models with a mast foot option to widen the scope of use and generally get the placement more or less bang on.
Back to the straps for a second: There’s a few schools of thought on this and riding SUP boards with a sail in surf. Some people like to feel the length and rocker of the board and be mobile and agile around the board to get the most out of both their turns and straight-line sailing. Others enjoy the strapped-in feeling – such as that on the Konas – and can eek more drive out of the board when bottom and top turning and cope with oncoming whitewater better in straps. Both have benefits but, speaking as both a Kona and regular SUP owner that regularly sails both big wave boards and both those styles of SUP, the agile, ‘ooching’ foot placement in getting planing and catching waves on the strapless boards definitely helps with technique on dedicated windsurfing boards.
Grip
What about deck non-slip? Well, obviously you can’t just go and SUP your big wave board, well you can, but it might involve tearing into your wetsuit and/or skin quite quickly, so generally it’s better to sail the SUP board with an EVA deck or non-slip paint, or even wax, than the other way around.
This inflatable version of the Explorer offers the same basic concept like its hard board sibling but has great advantages. It can be rolled up and fits into the backpack it comes with which means that you won’t need a roof rack for transport and no big garage for storage. It is also considerably lighter than any hardboard of this size.The high tech drop stitch technology makes the board so stiff that you will easily get it planing but the surface itself is soft enough so that beginners won’t hurt themselves when falling on it. Instead of a daggerboard it comes with an additional center fin which gives the board some directional stability to help avoid drifting and helps to go upwind. Being longer than the normal Explorers also helps with going upwind due to its longer waterline. Our team riders could not believe how much fun this board is. It can also be used as a beginner SUP board and is therefore an ideal family toy.
| VOLUME | LENGTH | WIDTH | WEIGHT | FINS |
| 280 Ltrs | 295 cm | 80.0 cm | 9.4 kg | 2 x 24.5 (9.0“) |
STARBOARD WindSUP 12’2” x 30” Freeride
The ultimate board in our range for cruising, whether that be paddle boarding on a flat day or windsurfing in a light breeze. The WindSUP Freeride comes in two versions: (1) The Planing version: This has a center fin that does not retract. This helps the board to be lighter, more discreet, more efficient at getting planing and more suitable for mixed paddleboard use and windsurfing. (2) The Daggerboard version: This has a retractable daggerboard that is more recommended for those who plan to mostly windsurf. The daggerboard makes for easier handling on the beach. The WindSUP 12’2” x 30” Freeride board is also part of the Waterman package. This includes one WindSUP Classic Sail 5.5m and one Starboard Enduro Tiki Tech Adjustable Paddle. Creating the perfect combination to get you SUPing & Windsurfing and sharing your experiences on the water, no mater what the conditions. This board focuses on friends and family fun during the summer season, when the wind is generally lighter and the waves are smaller. It is not a high-performance board in the conventional sense. Instead, it seeks to open up new ways to enjoy windsurfing and expand the boundaries of the sport and the WindSUP range. The WindSUP 12’2” x 30” Freeride is a great addition to any windsurfer’s quiver or the perfect choice for a sporting family wanting to enjoy the water.
THE SWISS ARMY KNIFE OF WINDSURFING KIT
By Peter Hart
The record is truly stuck, but I shall let it run for a few more revolutions and say that THE MODERN TECHNIQUE PLATEAU RESULTS FROM A LACK OF BASIC LIGHT WIND SKILLS. I’ve just run two clinics in Greece. One in Rhodes and one in Vass. In both places, light, morning wind gave way to strong afternoon thermals. The afternoons were the most fun, but everyone learned more in the mornings.
In strong winds you learn to be alert and dynamic. But it’s only off the plane that you can you drill the essential skills of balance, rig steering and power control. Of course you don’t need a WindSUP to mess around in light winds – any old tub will do – or will it?
Be Mobile
One of the reasons windsurfing was so popular in the 80s was because, with a baggy sail and a long board, given a force 2-3 you got a real ‘whoosh.’ The long board holds the water and glides. That length also forces people to be more mobile. They become more aware of the fore/aft trim and how foot pressure and getting the nose up or down effects the speed of tacks and gybes. In light winds you have to make big, bold movements to make things happen.
If you had to single out the commonest mistake of the habitual blaster, it’s that they’re too static.
My tool of choice is a 10’ 6” X 30” wide all-rounder. I don’t want a daggerboard. (I don’t need a toe-crushing nob.) Besides, it’s good form to learn to use the edge for resistance. I also like the surfboard rocker, which helps the board pivot and also makes it a mean machine in waves. That same all-rounder, in a light wind and a waist-high swell is the best wave-sailing tutor around.
The main issue learning to ride waves on small kit in a lot of wind is that people catch the wave too late.
They have no time to make any informed decisions and usually end up riding the white water back to the beach. That’s the glory of a long board with a 5.2 in 8 knots of breeze – everything happens in slow motion. You have time and can catch the unbroken swell easily and, without loads of power driving you down the wrong roads, you can stay with it.
On clinics I’ve caught the same wave as my clients. As it’s building we’ve had a full conversation about why we’ve caught it there, which way we’re going to ride it and which part of the board we’ll use to turn. With a WindSUP in the right conditions, you can have a proper, toe-side, down-the-line riding moment on an unbroken face, on your first session – something that could elude you for years on dedicated wave kit.
On my all-rounder I can muck around in light winds, ride waves, teach my kids and reach seven waterside pubs. What is there not to like?
2015 NAISH Crossover Air Series
The Crossover Air Series are incredibly versatile inflatable boards for both windsurfing and stand-up paddling. They feature an M8 universal insert for attaching a windsurfing rig and offer outstanding sailing performance in light to moderate wind conditions. They also have a slide-in dagger fin for upwind performance regardless of wind strength. For stand-up paddling, the Crossovers are designed with a low rocker and added thickness for directional stability and long glides. This makes them the ideal boards for fun flatwater cruising and longboard style windsurfing.
Crossover Air 11’0” – Ideal for riders up to 210 lbs/95 kg
RRD Airkid 8’0” Conv Plus
The choice for any kid up to 12 years old. It makes it an easy approach and confidently learn how to paddle, surf or windsurf all on one board, while playing with their friends. See your kid progressing in watersports on a board that will outgrow any riders’ ability. Comes with a removable centre fin for easy pointing.
RRD AirSUP 10’4” Conv Plus
The most appropriate type of SUP board to also learn how to windsurf. With its 34” of width it makes it super easy for anyone to step on, paddle or uphaul a sail. It’s the most popular size for families who wish to find a board to satisfy everyone. Also available with a 6” thick profile, to enhance stiffness for heavy weights and it’s an easier board to paddle or windsurf, thanks to its increased floatation. Comes with a removable centre fin for easy pointing.
RRD Airtourer 12’ Conv Plus
A perfect toy for flat waters, lakes or rivers. Also excels in light wind breezes to be used as a windsurfer. Its length and width make it a preferred choice for those who wish for a fast board either with a paddle or a windsurf sail in their hands. Available in 2 widths, 32” and 34” for increased stability or heavyweights. Comes with a removable centre fin for easy pointing.
RRD SUP SAIL & RIG
RRD SUP sails & rigs are designed to be the first buy to introduce your whole family to wind driven watersports.
The Sails:
A simple, lightweight single batten full monofilm sail. Designed to be used in winds from 1 to 14 knots.
A 2,5 sqms for kids from 5 to 10 years old
A 4,5 sqmts for kids from 12 y.o. onwards or lightweight sailors
A 5,5 sqmts for kids from every adult beginner.
The Masts:
A 2 x piece fiberglass Reduced diameter mast 250 cms long for the 2.5.
A 2 x piece fiberglass Reduced diameter mast 300 cms + 70 cms fixed fiberglass extension for the 4.5.
A 2 x piece fiberglass Reduced diameter mast 300 cms + 100 cms fixed fiberglass extension for the 5.5.
The Boom:
One size fits all. The new K-Boom 140-190. Reduced diameter aluminum tube. Mast foot, uphaul, Universal base and easy to carry rig bag are included in the rig package.
SUP RIG = Sup Sail + Mast + Mast foot + Uphaul + Universal Base + S-Boom + Rig Bag
| MODEL | SIZE |
BOOM(TBC) |
MAST (TBC) |
BAG |
| Sup sail | 5.5 | 185 | 400 | RRD Sail Bag |
| Sup sail | 4.5 | 170 | 370 | RRD Sail Bag |
| Sup sail | 2.5 | 250 | 250 | RRD Sail Bag |
JP HYBRID SUP WS – Hard board with windsurfing option
Trying to combine the impossible is never easy. Making a board that will have a good glide, stability and be a solid surfboard was no walk in the park. The subtle displacement bow flowing into a double concave bottom with soft thin rails and narrow tail was a winning combination. This creates a long efficient water line offering a superior paddling sensation on flat water with the longboard type of tail for easy rail to rail transfers in the surf. Take the Hybrid for a tour or a downwind run and check out the waves on your way back. Bring along your necessities under the bungee tie downs for a great day on the water. The Hybrids come in a beautiful green Wood Edition with glossy metallic rails.
Sizes: 10’8 x 31” 191Ltrs // 11’6 x 32” 212Ltrs
Tech & Finish Wood Edition with glossy rails. Board comes with:
EVA covered standing area, leash plug, air valve, 4-plug bungee cord, one RTM (Resin Transfer Molded) US single fin, a mastfoot insert to attach a windsurfing rig.
STARBOARD 11’2 x 40” WindSUP Inflatables Deluxe version
The WindSUP Inflatables open up new ways to enjoy windsurfing and expand the boundaries of the sport. With the ability to switch between sail power and paddle power, the WindSUP Inflatables make a very attractive proposition for the beachgoers or the active family. Deflated, they can be stored conveniently in a compact bag and thrown into the trunk of any car. They give schools, clubs and boat owners the opportunity to use a board that is tougher and safer than hard boards. For all users, they are also lighter and easier to handle than conventional boards. Starboard leads the way in developing technical, safe, and fun WindSUP Inflatables.
Starboard WindSUP Inflatables are available in two a variations:
• Zen version: Centre Fin, and 5” thick drop stitch construction
• Deluxe version: Daggerboard system, and 6” thick for maximum stiffness
RRD AirSUP 9’8” Conv Plus
An ideal small/mid size board good to ride waves as an SUP, and enjoy learning how to windsurf . Planing on this board and jibing will be a pure thrill. Very manouverable, quick to plane and lightweight!
RRD AirSUP 10’2” Conv Plus
Our midsize board in the range with which we started our Inflatable Boards collection. It’s the one-for-all board that will introduce anyone straight to any watersport in the blink of an eye.
NAISH NALU SERIES
Nalu 10’6” GT/GS
The Nalu 10’6” GT/GS is the one-board solution for riders wanting versatility, stability and wave riding performance. It features a wide Nalu outline, recessed deck and full rails for increased stability and wider range of use. The single- concave nose flows into a double-concave mid-section and V tail, making it adaptable to everything from flatwater cruising, to ankle slapper waves, to double overhead surf.
Ideal for riders up to 200 lbs/91 kg
Nalu 10’10” GT/GS
The Nalu 10’10” GT/GS is an all-around, extra stable design for touring, carrying gear, tandem paddling and small surf. It features a radical multi-concave bottom shape that channels the water from nose to tail. The multi-channel bottom combined with the low rocker makes it glide incredibly straight for a wide board of its length. The wide outline and slightly recessed deck in the standing area provide unmatched stability. The forward deck has eight insert holes for a bungee accessory to carry coolers and gear.
Ideal for riders up to 240 lbs/109 kg
NEW Nalu 11’0” GT/GS
The new Nalu 11’0” GT/GS features a versatile design for classic longboard surfing performance, touring and flatwater cruising. It has been fine-tuned with decreased volume in the nose and tail areas, resulting in an extremely responsive board with easy maneuverability. It features a wide outline and double concave deck in the stance area for optimal stability and comfort. This addition to the Nalu range offers riders the highest level of true longboard surfing performance, making everyday a great day on the water.
Ideal for riders up to 210 lbs/95 kg
Nalu 11’4” GT/GS
The Nalu 11’4” GT/GS features an all-around design for classic longboard surfing performance and flatwater paddling versatility. It is a well-known favorite for both waves and flatwater riding. It has a thinner outline and a more progressive rocker than the 11’6”. It is a superb well-rounded board for most riders and delivers versatility they will never outgrow.
Ideal for riders up to 220 lbs/100 kg
Nalu 11’6” GT/GS
The Nalu 11’6” GT/GS features a full body design for everything from entry level paddling, to flatwater cruising, to surfing. The performance characteristics make it the perfect one-board choice for the whole family. It is 5 1/2” thick with full rounded rails and a timeless longboard rocker line. This design provides amazing stability for a phenomenally wide range of use.
Ideal for riders up to 230 lbs/104 kg
FUN-DA-MENTALS – QUALITY ‘YOU TIME’
By Jem Hall
WindSUPs are an amazingly versatile water craft and you can simply score so much ‘water person’ time on them and, from a coaching position, they are fantastic for taking all abilities of windsurfer / wave sailor to the next level. I have already discussed with quite a few shops that the first windsurf package, after a beginner’s course, should be a WindSUP with a 5.0 to 6.0. “Why?” I hear you cry. Well, you can paddle them on flat water and in small waves (improving balance and fitness), learn to beach start on them, sail upwind (their waterline length aids this), get lots more stance and transitions in and, when you are ready, you can head out in small waves and learn to get over them, catch these rolling beauties and then get fully hooked whilst riding on these ocean gifts.
My wave coaching clinics sees us spending heaps of time on them, either wave riding, with a paddle or with medium-sized sails in light airs. Paddling a wave you wish to wavesail at a later so stage is just amazing for your spot knowledge and fun, fun, fun too. Whilst you are out there it’s also very sociable as you have the time and stability to stop and have a chat. The most-bought board after my wave clinics are WindSUPs. Lastly, if their are no waves, but we have light wind, then we get on out there and work on our tacks, gybes, helis and ducks in readiness to unleash these improved skills on the waves the next time the wind and waves welcome us back into them.
Go WindSUP and enjoy, its fitness, fun and fundamentals in one lovely package.
FANATIC Fly Wood edition, Fly HRS (High Resistance Skin.), Fly Pure
Fly Pure 9’6”
If you are a lighter person and you still want to enjoy the all-round performance of the Flys, the 9.6 in our favourite Pure technology is your choice. designed with plenty of width the 9.6 even allows first timers to enjoy their first SUP session and will take them up the skill ladder with time to show its full potential. For heavier more advanced paddlers the 9’6“ can be the ultimate all-round performance board to carve and ride down the line. Classic style surfing or progressive Stand Up Paddling, what ever your preferred style is, the 9’6“ will help you to put it on display.
Fly 11’0”
A true all rounder, the Fly 11’0” is a naturally adaptable board with high performance aspects that really matter. Offering endless glide in a compact and balanced design, the pronounced V and pintail provides smooth, engaging carving sensations while the surfing rocker line will have you cruising onto the waves first. Resembling the shape and characteristics of the 10’6”, it has outstanding float and stability making it suitable for both light and heavier beginner paddlers. Available in high Resistance Skin and Pure construction this really is the board for all. Comes with mastfoot insert for optional Windsurfing.
Fly 11’6”
Expand your watersport horizons with the Fly 11’6”, the all-time entry board to both the Windsurfing and SUP world. Easy from the word Go! – this board is suitable for any size and style of rider. Whether days bring breeze or glassy waters, an adventure can be created with this highly durable package. Optimum upwind ability when windsurfing is generated through the sealable centre fin or use as a standalone SUP shape without.
The 11’6” is undoubtedly the answer to a SUP / Windsurf combo. The CAD-design shape features a genuine surfing rockerline catching waves easily and providing you with maximum balance and stability. Both models are available in high Resistance Skin (HRS) or Pure construction. Endless riding is to be had with the multi-tasking 11’6”, so all you have to do is decide whether you’re going to SUP or sail.
Fly 10’6”
If you are a heavier rider or your local spot regularly presents you with variable conditions, then the 10’6” will provide you with the extra support and stability you need. For 2015 we have added the new HhRS Wb 10’6” with 5l more volume and an extra 1 inch in width to give you even more stability and float. the combination of softer rails towards the front and sharper edges on the tail, enhances grip and carve through turns, all the while maintaining that highly sought after glide. A more pronounced curve in the tail, teamed perfectly with a flatter nose rocker, offers direct turning and smooth paddling. Well-balanced and wide volume distribution, combined with the flat deck gives a great deal of stabilised buoyancy. Available in a lightweight Wood edition for high performance, or the HRS and standard Pure constructions, the 10’6” is a great all-rounder that can be shared amongst family and friends of all levels. Comes with mastfoot insert for optional Windsurfing.
Most of the main windsurfing brands that produce SUPs also add mast feet to certain models and constructions in their dedicated wavesailing lines, so be sure to check their websites and brochures for details info on the various sizes available. Here’s a few to get you started.
FANATIC
ProWave Ltd, ProWave HRS (High Resistance Skin.) – Pure Surfing
Prime performance with your ProWave. 2015 sees the ProWave range take SUP wave riding to the next level, with shapes that complement a rider’s search for radical manoeuvres, speed and control. this year we introduce five brand new shapes ranging from 7’6” to 9’2” while the well regarded 9’6” and 9’10”make up the rest of the range to create the most extreme high performance wave riding collection. The smallest SUP in the Fanatic range, the 7’6”, is impeccably balanced and easy to paddle with quick acceleration. Once unleashed onto a wave it speaks for itself giving you an exceptionally responsive ride. The wider nose and squash tail design of the range offers more stability in the smaller models, whilst retaining highly responsive turning capabilities in the larger ones. A thinner rail profile provides more grip and drive through the turn. the 9’6” has enough evenly distributed volume to carry any rider weight while delivering Shortboard SUP performance.
The 9’10” Semi Gun is a slightly stretched version of the 9’9”, designed for speed and charging big waves. it was the first SUP to conquer Shipstern’s bluff / Tasmania! A Quad or thruster fin setup gives you the ultimate flexibility to adapt the board to your style of riding or the conditions of the day. A subtly domed deck and a balanced volume distribution provide optimum paddling efficiency and ease for catching waves. Riding down the line, the ProWave performs with outstanding flow making light work
of big conditions. Mastfoot insert for Windsurfing option.
Allwave LTD, Allwave HRS (High Resistance Skin.)
Smooth surfing is the perfect description for this year’s AllWave range that comes in seven sizes – 7’11”, 8’3”, 8’5”, 8’11”, 9’1”, 9’5”, 9’10”. Available in two constructions Innegra Carbon PVC Sandwich & HRS. With exciting yet predictable attributes, 2015 sees three fresh new shapes, 7’11”, 8’3” & 8’5” being added to the range. the thinner board and lower volume of these three sizes are supported outstandingly by the shorter, wider compact outline making for a responsive and effortless ride. the versatile option: the board can be set up as a Quad or thruster. Combined with a modified base and thinner rails, optimum grip and carving ability is ensured. The larger 8’11”, 9’1”, 9’5”, 9’10” sizes have a ›wider around the centre‹ outline. This, combined with a more pulled-in nose and squash tail offers plenty more stability, adding performance with less swing weight. Whatever fuels your fire, these boards offer friendly accessibility whilst maintaining excellent manoeuvrability on the wave. A true surfing scoop rocker line and added nose kick finishes off the AllWave’s top performance.
The Ltd versions of the AllWave come with the Quad Fin setup option. For windsurfing, the mastbase insert makes for straightforward attachment of a sail, adding to the fun and versatility. The concept of the AllWave enables across the board performance for all SUP riders, performing remarkably well in all conditions. Whether you’re looking to catch your first wave or advance into larger surf, through its balanced shape, this range is undoubtedly the ultimate tool for enjoyment, ease and progression.
IS PERFORMANCE SAILING POSSIBLE ON A WINDSUP?
By Scott McKercher
There’s more than one point of view with what the term ‘WindSUP’ brings up in people’s minds. Obviously there’s the marketing slogan of “buy one and get two board sports” with the all-round appeal of a family board than can either be paddled or windsurfed in flat water or little ripples trying to be waves. But then there’s the other side. ‘The potential for an actual performance discipline’.
It was tossed up a while ago, that they should do a no/light wind alternative for a PWA event to entertain people on the beach and to have some sort of result for a wave comp that didn’t look like happening. Drawbacks such as competitors having to then carry another (large) board around on tour blocked any such thoughts. But the other argument is: can there be actually any performance in such a discipline?
My answer was definitely “yes” – but at selected World Tour locations only. Sylt, for example: Not ideal. Thumping beach breaks in light wind? Not a good idea. Bolt onshore? Not really that good an idea. However, I’ve had some sessions in quality waves that have been an absolute ball. Quite some time ago I busted out at WindSUP at the PWA Portugal event. Light x-offshore winds at Guincho, (on a pretty big board at that point) and it was pretty damn fun. Easily a good novelty light-wind alternative. And way better than just getting cooked on the beach bored out of my brain. As much as Guincho is a nice beach to sit and do nothing on …
At home in Western Australia, on a day where we would have been sitting in the car park in 8-10 knots on long peeling waves: Really good fun. On a smaller SUP (8’0 x 29) throw on a 5.0 or 5.3 and you’re getting full-rail cutties and hitting the lip. (Waves around chest to bit over head high.)
I felt like I’d had a proper session and the beers in the car park afterwards tasted way better. And Cloudbreak in Fiji of all places, all be it small to mid size, I groveled out, thought I was going to get abused by the hard-core surfing crowd, but actually got hoots. Just doing turns, (not hitting the lip obviously).
But, get a good cutback on any size board and it feels good.
Obviously the smaller SUP board feels better than, say a 10 footer, but all the same, I was getting out there where I wouldn’t have been otherwise.
And I think that’s the point.
JP AUSTRALIA FUSION SUP AST
Hard board with windsurfing option
For 2015 we have a fun little addition to the very successful FUSION line; the 8’5”x30”. Just like the rest of the FUSIONs it features a nice step deck, which allows keeping lots of volume while still having nice thin rails. This sleek design carries the volume and width in all the right places for a stable paddle platform. The bottom shapes feature concaves throughout running into a V towards the tail. The V in the tail helps to rail up when going down a wave. Their noses create efficient lift and the thinned out rails produce good bite during turns. Quite a bit of nose rocker makes the shapes fit well into the waves. They are available in PRO, Wood Edition and in AST technology. The 10’2” is also available as a Soft Deck version. For this year we added the FCS plugs to the AST line so they can be used in a thruster set up as well. The FUSIONs have a really good glide and are happy in flat water paddling, but they love the waves.
The post WINDSUP BUYERS GUIDE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
www.star-board-windsurfing.com
FANATIC FALCON 110
JP SLALOM PRO 68
RRD X-FIRE 114
TABOU MANTA 71
BACK TO TEST INTRODUCTION
The post STARBOARD ISONIC 117L 2014 TEST REVIEW REPORT appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
This test was originally published in the November/December 2014 issue.
As with the 4.7 sails tested last month, where there were “no lemons”, it really is the case with these boards too. Despite the variety, making a decision what to try and what to buy is not as complicated as you might think. All of the boards featured in this category are from just one of each manufacturers range, as most have “side shore” or “real world” billings to separate them. That’s enough to narrow down any initial search; but I’ll come back to that a bit later. Our reliable venue of El Medano in Tenerife, like most of the Canary Islands, didn’t have its usual relentlessly windy summer. We did however get on the water on 10 days out of 14 and mostly with 5.3 and 95L combinations; very ‘Real World’ conditions and enough to provide a very clear picture of what worked best and excited the riders the most.
The Line Up
The group included some thrusters (Fanatic, Quatro), some quads (Goya, RRD and Starboard) and some five box offerings (Tabou, Simmer and JP). Of these, the Tabou was the only board to come complete with 5 fins to get you going in both thruster and quad set-ups. The Simmer comes as a quad so you merely need to add a center fin, and the JP as a thruster requiring a rear quad pair. If adaptability and experimentation is your thing you will find plenty to keep you busy with these. But if its plug’n’play and instant gratification as top of your list then the dedicated quads (Goya, Starboard) and thrusters (Quatro and Fanatic) have the least adjustment of all. Breaking these boards out onto the ocean for the first time the test team makes a conscious effort to not think about any of the boards configurations at all. The questions we ask are: Does it require a lot of rider effort? How comfortable over chop is it? Any idiosyncrasies? Does it feel big or small? As previously mentioned, you cannot judge a sail by batten count alone and you cannot judge a board by fin count or volume either. Calling them a “big” wave board is wrong also as there are dozens of larger specialist boards available up to 120L that can be just the thing if you top 100kg. So the role of the 95 has changed to become more of an average size sailors go to board for conditions from float and ride through to gusty, squally strong winds and water conditions from little ankle snappers to double mast monsters. They find themselves really carrying a wider range of sail sizes than most other boards. Fifteen years ago the choice in boards like this was miniscule. Now we have the ultimate Christmas selection box to choose from, and you can be safe in the knowledge that all of the boards in this set are capable enough to deal with more challenges than most of us are ever likely to give them.
Conclusions
Are they any fun? Oh Yes with a capital Y, every board here has slightly different attributes and is the result of differing approaches to similar design briefs but we will detail the broad results we found below. The earliest planing in order were the Tabou Pocket 94L, Fanatic Tri Wave 95L and JP Thruster Quad 93L. Most comfortable for heavier riders – JP, Fanatic, Tabou. Most comfortable ride – Simmer Style, JP, Tabou. Smallest feeling boards, Starboard Quad, Goya Custom Quad, Quatro Sphere (slightly longer but narrower so feels like a smaller board).
Of course there are lots more to each of these boards as you will discover over the coming pages. Returning to the labels, side shore and onshore, we can only comment on the side-onshore performance because that’s what we had. The Boards getting the most out of a little were the Tabou, Simmer, JP and Fanatic. The RRD Cult Quad also proved itself as a capable all-rounder too. Boards that just needed a bit more power from the rig or the conditions were the Quatro, Starboard, and Goya. This was interesting as we know the Goya Quad well and it can be one of the most invisible feeling boards to ride. A clear favorite from last year’s test and our benchmark standard bearer here. This showed how lighter the conditions were for this year’s test as just 3 or 4 knots more and every board here would be right in their power band. This group really does prove that the best time ever to be a windsurfer is now. Make the most of it, go out and demo some at the very least. This size has become so versatile that it could easily be your most used board. Enjoy. JDV
Special thanks to the Tenerife Windsurf Solution (TWS) centre for hosting us – the best demo/hire centre in the world and I Love Meet and Greet Airport Valet Parking Services. The Principal Test Team were Chris Rainbow, Julian Da Vall, Brian McDowell
THE LINE-UP
The post 95L WAVE BOARD TEST 2015 appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
THE LOW-DOWN
The 94 & 100L Quads share their outline shape, with the 100l having a 0.5cm increase in thickness to make up the extra 6L. It’s a plug and play board that features new lightweight slot boxes for the fins.
BRAND CLAIM
The Quads are Starboard’s most versatile wave boards. The unique shape and the four fins generate maximum drive and acceleration, bringing an awesome production of speed, flow and power to your sailing in all wave & wind combinations. Stable and extremely responsive, the Quads are most rewarding when driven off the rails for powerful yet smooth turns. The four-fin grip gives a very connected sensation to the wave yet they still have the ability to lose the tail when extended through the lip for a rotational move.
PERFORMANCE
The Quad promised us great things after experiencing the exciting and accomplished 82L version last year, which was a solid reliable go anywhere try anything fun machine. The 94L still aspires to the same program with a comfortable autopilot like ride. The rocker line had the most accentuated tail kick of any board on test and requires an adjustment in technique to work the board in marginal onshore conditions and in these water states, gusts help lift the board free. Once on the face the pedigree of the Starboard Quads come to the fore and you are soon dreaming of bigger waves and bigger cutbacks that its designer Scotty McKercher has etched in his and the board’s DNA. Boasting an impressive sail carrying capacity the Quad 94L can work with a 6.5m engine. Carving ability is highly rated with a great deal of drive through turns and a high level of agility. Although containing 94L the Quad feels like the ride of a smaller board combining the best of both worlds.
To sum up the Quad 94, you have the volume and float to get you out when there are holes so it floats big and rides small. A great one board solution offering a very high level of control and confidence in feel and all the carving ability you can handle.
THE VERDICT
The more wave and wind power it receives the more it responds with grip, speed and composure. Rides and feels like a smaller board making it a great all round carver.
www.star-board-windsurfing.com
The post STARBOARD QUAD 94L 2015 TEST REVIEW appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
Story & Photos JOHN CARTER
Less than six months later, a blip came up on the radar; all the right ingredients were out there brewing in the Atlantic. A huge west swell was marching in on the Irish Coast almost certain to max out most of the usual breaks and accompanied with a rare solid wind forecast, this was exactly the day the crew had been waiting for to plot their return.
“ I could tell by his body language,the way he kicked out at the end of the ride, that he had just ridden a really special wave and it was ‘game on’ !. ”
And so the planning and the phone calls commenced! Shall we, shan’t we, procrastination, indecision, the ‘what ifs’ and all the usual mind numbing lack of decision making frustration I personally go through until Timo just pipes up ‘we are going!’. That was it, Ross was unavailable for the return but Finn was home in Ireland and up for another shot at this rare chance to score some epic down the line sailing. After checking out the possibilities, the only ferry that would cater for a hit and run mission would be the Holyhead to Dublin overnighter with Stena Lines. A mere six hours in the van from Southampton to the tip of north Wales, a few hours on the ferry and then a four hour drive at the other end to the wild west coast in late January, easy!
I’m not sure what draws me to these mad missions but after years of trudging backwards and forwards to Ireland, I still feel I want to be a part of any big wave chase and sometimes it is much better to go than to sit at home wondering if the guys are scoring or not. When you travel over twenty four hours to a spot and it’s not happening, it’s not like you can just turn around and quickly head back home. This is a commitment, a huge amount of speculation and after many years, the calls you make are hopefully more calculated than just going on a whim. This time round we arrived at the break, in a real state of apprehension, this gamble was a pretty hefty one and when I saw clean lines with the wind just starting to fill in, I was actually even more nervous that this might be a ‘teaser’ and one of those days where the conditions are right on the edge. After an hour or so playing the waiting game, Timo was out there, dropping into his first wave, it was clean as a whistle and loaded with power. I could tell by his body language, the way he kicked out at the end of the ride, that he had just ridden a really special wave and it was ‘game on’ !. Finn and Katie McAnena were soon to follow catching a golden window of sunshine, wind and perfect waves. A huge rain squall with its associated rainbow eventually marked the end of the magical session but for those few hours it was world class out there and a stand out session amongst all my years
I remember watching a surf video from Ireland, the star was a grizzled ex pat shaper with a face full of foam dust and a laid back lilt from a low stress life of cutbacks and concaves. Amongst his gems of one liners was a tale that summed up life for wave and weather watchers on the battered west coast where he lived. His story was one that anyone that studies windguru can relate to, when he first arrived he couldn’t believe how good the forecast was, every day he’d get up early to catch these perfect waves; the catch ? – they never arrived.
I always keep an open mind or more importantly a van full of windsurfers and sups when it comes to perfect forecasts. I used to feel pressure when people asked me what conditions would be like but since having to make the call on flying a team of 50 to Ireland for the Red Bull Storm chase, a phone call from Timo and JC is easy breezy !. By the way that shaper from the surf vid, I didn’t explain the ending, he stopped getting up early, stopped watching forecasts and just surfed when he looked outside and saw it was good, pretty simple formula but one my brother and I have yet to work out.
My theory is every day on the water is a good day, Timo, well he would never lie in, as for JC, he’s the worker, the gold hunter who never stops sifting through the mud. Together we frustrate partners and any reasonable logic to chase those rare day of days even though we know we’ve been skunked more than we’ve scored – its the windsurfer logic – its always worth it! The beauty of this spot is that it is so far out of the way, there’s no surf report, no webcam, no nearby indicators, the approach is all wild fields and empty countryside and anticipation grows with every corner.
When we arrived to set upon set of wind fanned perfect left handers we were so amped up we could barely rig. The excitement leads to a litany of errors like wetsuit on the wrong foot and harness upside down, all while JC tells a tale of how Polakow would be out there already. I remind JC that Polakow’s idea of cold is how chilled his Red Bull is, Polakow would have already tried to drown him twice before breakfast on his jet ski and that oh yeah, Timo is already out there ! JC drops his camera bag running or rather tripping to the rocks to catch Timo’s first wave, his tripod hits him perfectly between his legs as his brand new trainers land knee deep in freshly laid mud that smells suspiciously not very muddy. I lend him my wellies even though I feel Polakow wouldn’t while my half rigged sail flys like an uncontrolled kite towards the closest barbed wire Murphy’s law can find.
If you have ever windsurfed in some tropical PWA paradise where the local rippers rig effortlessly in the sun, have cool clothes, sick polished trucks and hot girlfriends who kiss them goodbye before they do a double Goita while rubbing suntan on their shoulders, this is not one of these scenes. My sail is flapping on a fence, the van is a darker shade of muck, our clothes are soaking wet, cool no, cold yes and the only thing I want from my girlfriend is a hot cuppa and some Deep Heat on my nose to lessen the hypothermic snot forming. The one thing that is the same but is the waves, I’ve never been to Punta Preta but hold a mirror to it and leave the AC on max for 5 years and that’s what it looks and feels like out there today.
The waves are so butter smooth I know I can rig a small sail, my favourite 4.4 S1 and opt for my Kode 82 twin for a little bit of float out the back. There’s so much period to the swell that riding a super-fast board like the Kode looks like the only way to keep up with the speed of the wave. As I launch Timo hits a perfect lip at Mach speed and boosts an insanely high aerial and an even more amazing landing back down the face. I smile knowing I’m probably not going to get an air like that but seeing it in the flesh by your brother, well that’s just as good a feeling too. My first wave I couldn’t believe how smooth it was, butter seems the obvious comparison but most butter I know clogs your arteries, is a bit fatty and not very good for you. This butter however was oozing adrenaline; fat?, no way, it was a face loaded with muscle. Bad for you ?, yes it was, I knew I was going to stay out until I couldn’t move anymore and bore the booties off anyone for the next 10 days telling them how good it was.
As I kicked out I watched Irish ripper Katie McAnena drop down another bomb, I couldn’t believe how fast she was going, it was the only way you could keep pace with the freight train of the wave and after a couple of rail blistering turns she soon joined us in the channel for a chorus of screams that only windsurfers can communicate with in times of joy and normal people reserve for new iPhone launches. If you windsurf for no other reason than to escape iPhones and normal people then this day was for you. Three of us on the water, not a soul in sight and only the noise of waves breaking perfectly and your fins humming happily as they slice and speed to the peak of their design.
Windsurfing waves like these is actually a pretty simple formula, unlike our shaper friend though you just have to keep getting up early, keep looking at forecasts and keep waiting for those perfect waves because one day they do come, it’s the windsurf logic and on this cold but perfect January day it was so worth it!
“ my heart rose as I turned down the final pothole ridden road to a view of a worldclass left hander peeling across the bay with the sun beating down ”
At 8am I set out North from my home in Galway to catch up with JC, Timo and Finn. The plan was to sail a notoriously fickle break that the boys had scored in December and were keen to catch again. As a spot, it’s incredibly temperamental, depending on very specific wind and swell directions and tide state. The one and only other time I had sailed it before was January two years ago with Mikey Clancy and Graham Ezzy and from that one day I knew both what a joy it was to catch a screaming left there but also the pain and heartache of the gusty winds and ripping currents.
Slightly sceptical, I took my time getting there as pounding hail showers, Armageddon squalls followed by windless doldrums did little to settle my nerves. Just as I was resigned to another glorious waste of petrol, my heart rose as I turned down the final pothole ridden road to a view of a world-class left hander peeling across the bay with the sun beating down and not a sinner on the wave, classic Ireland !
As usual eager beaver Timo, was rigged and ready to go. He’s always on it when it comes to sailing. Finn wasn’t too far behind but meticulously checking his gear making sure everything was fit for purpose. I’m useless when it comes to being prepared like him, I just rig as quick as I can and head out regardless, but I’m starting to realise Finn might be actually on to something, like when I keep breaking down out to sea with no back up whilst Finn’s out there with enough spare down haul to tug a cruise ship into shore!
Timo was catching some absolute peaches, long walls with throwy inside sections which he was just doing aerial after aerial on. It was fun to see some of the local top big wave surfers like Paul O’Kane there watching some world class windsurfing, it’s a pretty rare occurrence around these parts and to see it so closely, in person, is pretty impressive. Finn headed out and in true Finn style started picking off the bombs. He tacked so far up wind I thought he’d run aground on the headland but it was all part of his standard kamikaze mission to go as deep as he could on the biggest sets of the day. At one stage all three of us were lined up on a clean set that came rolling in from so far out the back it felt like a lifetime before they finally jacked up. I could see Timo on the first, throwing buckets all the way in, then Finn’s wave was massive and all I could see from the back was the arc of the mast dipping below the lip and then carving up again as the monster wave rolled in. My wave was pretty sweet too. I was out on my favourite sail, my 4.3 Firelight, trying not to get distracted by the boys’ waves in front of me, or the stunning backdrop ahead as I headed down the face of a sizeable wall. There is literally nothing sweeter than having the sickest conditions right at home on your doorstep, the sun shining down and only you and your two mates out there enjoying it. It’s always the best craic sailing with Finn and Timo, not only because they push me to try harder but mostly because they are so unbelievably happy to just be out there, it’s so infectious and why I love windsurfing in Ireland despite my near hypothermic state ! JC
The post IRISH BREAKS – GAME CHANGER appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
End of December 2014 the Canary Islands were under storm warnings…when that happens, Dany Bruch and his mates are always searching were to go to score some epic conditions. This time they went to an outside reef called “Las Manchas”, in the Antequera area, near the Anaga Rocks, north shore of Tenerife. Waves were mountains moving around, massive, but nothing epic really as the strong wind was kind of onshore…Dany still needed to give it a shot and go down a couple of white water bombs!
Quality of the footage is very poor, but still you get a taste of what was going on out there!
Thanks to Alexander Zirke for capturing this with his GoPro.
Thanks to Vilayta for the water rescue and support.
Thanks to Aito for taking pictures!
Music: Elephant-Tame Impala
The post “LAS MANCHAS” – TENERIFE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
BREAKING BAD
// PHILIP KOSTER rotating through a sea of white in Maui. Shooting from the sky you get a real appreciation of the volume of water moving in a breaking wave. It looks heavy but Koster’s pretty laid back, on and off the water, I doubt he’s stressed, that’s normally my job when I’m in a helicopter !
Photos JOHN CARTER
The post PHILIP KOSTER – PERSPECTIVE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
PE’AHI AWAKES a powerful Pacific winter storm lights up Jaws. Polakow, Swifty, Morgan, Levi and Marcilio Browne tell their big wave tales.
BJORN DUNKERBECK, RETIRED BUT REBOOTED. JC finds out from the man himself why we have far from heard the last of Bjorn.
CODE BLACK An exceptional storm threatened 60 foot waves. Finn Mullen and John Carter seek, retreat, score and report on the big black blob !
DAYMER BAY Daymer is beautiful but has waves that can wreck any sailor. A story of two storms and a local’s guide to this must visit spot.
FUERTE’ ON FIRE Atlantic activity lights up Fuerteventura’s famous shores. Jules Denel and a cast of locals and visitors enjoy the spoils !
A FORCE 10 ADVENTURE The making of Red Bull Storm Chase, the Movie. An exclusive insight to the most elaborate Windsurf production of all time.
LANCELIN OCEAN CLASSIC The world’s longest running windsurf competition celebrates its 30th year ! JC reports from the beach.
SEAT HARNESS BUYERS GUIDE Peter Hart explains the benefits of sitting down alongside our run down of the latest bums in hooks on market.
PETER HART MASTERCLASS – Harty on high winds. When the wind really blows, Captain Hart gives his tips on how to steady the sail..and board !
MOVE ON UP – Getting flight into your forwards. Jem Hall brings us his top tips for getting your forwards higher.
EGYPT WINDSURF GUIDE Egypt is a windsurfing Paradise, Peter Hart explains why. Read his tales, tips and our resort guide.
LOWDOWN : INTO THE COLD CHAMBER Gollito Estredo goes deep deep freeze, testing ION’s Fall/ Winter wetsuits in a cold lab !
LOWDOWN : STARBOARD RIO LONG TAIL Starboard have a new beginner board and concept, designer Tiesda You gives us the lowdown !
LATEST & GREATEST The freshest gear, the new design ideas, all here !
EDITORIAL – STORM FORCE Storms, the greatest force in windsurfing also gives the greatest lesson. Challenge and be beautifully humbled.
AFFAIRS OF THE HART Brazil, paradise with an edge. Harty on the good and bad of a country famed for both but always worth it for a windsurfer.
Get your copy by App or in Print now!
The post MARCH 2015 ISSUE – ON SALE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
It all comes together Dieter van der Eyken Video
”After the PWA season ended last year I got approached by the guys of Bern Media if I was interested into making a little clip together. As it turned out just a few days later a good forecast appeared and we tried a new spot probably nobody had sailed before on a very small inlet near Hoorn with dead flat water but a bit gusty winds. In the end all worked out great although it was a typical dutch stormy day with almost no sun and a lot of rain me and the guys of Bern Media are happy how it turned out. It’s not about the action but more about why after doing this sport for almost 16 years and being a pro windsurfer for the past 5 years I still love it as much if not more than when I started! Hope it gets you pumped up to score that perfect session and you enjoy this clip which is a bit better than the other clips I normally put online!
Thanks also to my sponsors: Starboard, Severne, Camaro, Sunwise and C7”
The post IT ALL COMES TOGETHER DIETER VAN DER EYKEN VIDEO appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
THE LOW-DOWN
The Kode Waves come with vertical, square twin fins developed by MB Fins, specifically for the Kode Wave but also has a single fin option to turn the board into a high-wind blaster.
BRAND CLAIM
Fast to get on the plane with a high top end speed, they are the most ideal boards for big airs and double forwards. They just want to boost whether it’s jumping or wave riding, with excellent projection above the lip along with being able to spin around it. Drive and speed are initiated off of the front foot, as is the rotational spinning style of Köster. MB Twinzer fins in a new G10 construction aid in the early release of the tail whilst the board is still able to maintain the drive required for going down the line.
PERFORMANCE
You don’t have to look very far through the pages of this mag before you see Philip Köster heading for the stratosphere, or throwing huge spray from a heavy backside or front side hit. The Kode Wave relishes power and the more it can get, the happier you and it will be. But don’t be misled by the talk of boosting huge loops and physics defying wave acrobatics into thinking that this weapon is a dangerous beast to be tamed. The Kode requires no more skill to ride than any of this group. The basic rule applies that the more skill you have the more reward you get. The more time you spend the more skill you get and so on. The Kode just shows another angle from which the design can come to solve the wave performance equation. It is a refreshing time for board design in that all the modern boards here have quite distinct flavors. It was not always so, and the variety offered by boards such as the Kode prove that the kit now has never been better.
As with the 92L 2014 edition tested last year the smaller 82L does have you driving through your front foot to command speed, angle of attack and early planing. The board gets up to speed quickly and the free, high speed sensation has you seeking ramps and carving easily with plenty of drive in turns and great for just blasting if you feel like that too ! A great board that shows its pedigree as Koster’s choice, the Kode has the potential to turn the “average” into “epic”!
THE VERDICT
A board that everyone deserves to try. The Kode’s full on power style works particularly well if you put your foot on the gas and charge! Drive it off the front foot and enjoy the direct engaging experience. The 82L would cover most 80kg pilots to the top of their wind range.
www.star-board-windsurfing.com
The post STARBOARD KODE WAVE 82L 2015 TEST REVIEW appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
This test was originally published in the January/February 2015 issue.
FINDINGS
What is becoming increasingly apparent, especially in this category, is the massive influence of width and rockerline for planing ease and stability, volume alone just doesn’t tell you enough though is still an important indicator. This is borne out by the two earliest planers in this group being the biggest (RRD Hardcore Wave V5 @ 88L) and the smallest (Fanatic Triwave @ 81L) with nothing to choose between them. The RRD is thicker with a more beveled deck shape and even volume distribution whereas the Fanatic is thin top to bottom but still with an even flow throughout. Both boards are exactly the same length, 228cm, with the RRD just 0.5cm wider at its maximum. Conversely the two boards requiring the most power or technique to get going just happened to be the narrowest, most highly rockered, groundswell hungry boards here; the JP Radical Quad and Quatro Sphere but these still out plane most older boards and once powered offer a more front foot driven surfing sensation. Of course this is only a basic comparison and the real detail only comes from analysis of our in water testing reports
Realistically most of us with an 85L do have a bigger board to turn to if it’s just not blowing properly, which means that not having enough power to drive the little shredders is actually rarely a problem. According to the sales figures most people are choosing either 105/95l freestyle wave boards or bigger wave boards, 95L+ for float and ride conditions depending where they sail most. Though as you will discover from the individual board reports, quite a few boards of this size wouldn’t leave you sat on the beach procrastinating whilst your mates blast around on their 95L or more boards.
These 85L beauties had the same set of conditions for evaluation as their larger 95L siblings which were not “epic” but representative of ‘real world’ conditions. Despite this when it did blow consistently, the 85’s came out. Mostly used with the 5.3m rigs we still had an immense amount of fun on them and 85L waveboards still remain the go to board size for most wave sailors, professionally or recreationally and with good reason.
SUMMARY
All of these modern 85’s are capable of fulfilling the one board quiver for the 75-90 kg pilot, with fin tuning options a plenty to provide extra light wind drive or top end control. Our main test team consisted of 80, 85 and 95kg pilots supplemented with some lighter riders input for balance.
Within our main test team group, our favorites vying for top honors in the marginal conditions were the Fanatic TriWave 81 and RRD Hardcore wave 88 for their ability to get going, keep going and still turn easy and keep speed. For its all-round plug and play ability the Goya Custom 84 will satisfy you without the need for tinkering. If you get to sail in groundswell conditions then the JP radical wave 83 is the fastest turning board we have set foot on and definitely sets pulses racing. Whether it is a one board do it all or quiver addition you are after, read on for our thoughts on what made each board tick and what may be the right shredder for you.
Great times, great rides. JDV
Special thanks to the Tenerife Windsurf Solution (TWS) centre for hosting us – the best demo/hire centre in the world and I Love Meet and Greet Airport Valet Parking Services. The Principal Test Team were Chris Rainbow, Julian Da Vall, Brian McDowell
THE LINE-UP
The post 85L WAVE BOARD TEST 2015 appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
Intro Finn Mullen // Words Kevin Pritchard // Photos John Carter
Kevin Pritchard
Multi World Champion
‘Photo shooting, competition results, social media, writing travel stories, arranging trips, booking tickets, training, travelling, packing, checking in, writing emails. Today’s athlete has little room for error. The art of being a team rider is becoming more and more difficult every year with budget cuts, new kids coming up, and the social media side of things ever changing the game. Combined with the small window of opportunity to be a professional athlete in a very small sport and you only have one shot when opportunity knocks.
So what does it take to become a team rider? Well the best way to get your foot in the door is results. Race results, wave events or some form of proof that you should be on the team. If you are not doing contests or there are no contests around your area, working with a key shop in your area and being the local hotshot on the beach is one of the best ways to get your first sponsor. When the shop that is buying the boards or sails recommends a rider to a brand, it is pretty hard for them to say no. You might not start off with a free board, but maybe a discount to help you move closer to your goal. Next up, start gathering some photos, videos and records of your results or coverage from magazines and websites. To be noticed and achieve exposure you need to stand out from the pack these days so offer Editors a different angle and make sure your videos are slick and clean. I like to keep my sponsors informed as much as possible and send in reports of what I have been up to. I am doing a lot of events throughout the year so it gives me plenty of things to write about. I try to tell them about the events, who was in it and how I did. This keeps your name going through their desk and the next time you come up for contract negotiation they are like oh yeah that guy has been working !
$ Any team rider needs to cruelly consider themselves as a ‘ prod- uct that will help grow sales $ Dave Hackford
Sponsorship is pretty cut throat. For the last 20 years, every year around October, its contract renewal time. It is pretty rare unless you are Philip Køster to get more than a one year deal. You know the saying, you are only as good as your last race, well that holds so true when you are trying to keep your sponsorship budget alive. You start thinking about if you did good enough, if you are going to make the team, did I do enough travel stories, is the brand as a whole selling enough gear to keep up with the budgeting. This is stress month, you’re in? you’re out?, do you have another brand who wants to work with you? For me, I always do best when I had a backup plan. If I had a backup plan ready to go I could go in with all my confidence and be like I want to stay with you guys, I want to be loyal to the brand, but this is what I need to happen. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t.
This year was no different for me, my contract is up at the end of the season and while yeah maybe I am getting on in age, I still want to keep this lifestyle going. I love windsurfing and I love to do promotions, test equipment and get creative with new designs but how do I justify myself to my sponsors if I am just sitting on the couch all year. As I approach contract renewal, I venture down to the Bangkok Headquarters and straight into the negotiating room to iron out my 2015 contract and hoping to get a raise. Straight away Starboard come in with an array of congratulatory comments on my performances throughout the year, it throws me off guard ! I continue with my game plan and whip out my list of things that I have been doing, current leader of the AWT, writing articles for magazines, being on the web, being on Facebook, making videos, promoting myself as well as the brand. After haggling back and forth I managed to snag some more boards on the old contract and thanked my lucky stars for my 15th year on Starboard’s Dream Team. It has been a good run ! Contracts will typically layout exactly what the brand expects from a rider and what they are prepared to give, what people may not realise is there are also sometimes cash incentives for world titles or exposure (please give me a front cover Mr Editor ! 
)
So now being in my older years, who do I think is worth the cash money moollah these days? Well as you can tell by now, the playing field has changed a bit. Of course I think that I am worth the most, Ha ha.. Well maybe not, but doing my fair share of internet, videos, magazine travel stories, and actually being able to discuss what a board or sail does or how it works to a potential customer or shop owner I feel like I am in a great position for a brand, because I can rip harder than most people on the beach and can also be a great ambassador for the brands that I am representing. The age, talent and ability to relate to the older cliental that buys windsurfing equipment is a huge plus.
Brands realize though they have to have the complete package. You have to have the riders doing the articles, media, testing the equipment as well as young kids doing the dreamy, insane moves that 99.9999% of windsurfers will never ever do. In my mind I see Robby Swift doing a great job. He has managed to keep a good contract with JP / Pryde throughout his injury prone years and I think it is mainly because what he does off the board as well as on the board. He makes all the JP videos and is filming all the time with his wife Heidy, and the brand can feel a real value coming back in. Sure when he goes out and does a pushloop forward in Gran Canaria, it is awesome and amazing, but if he does it and no one sees it, does it count for his sponsors ?
Boujamaa is one who gets a ton of print coverage. When I was in the office, nearly every mag had him on a cover or double page spread that was just some insane jump with a rainbow behind him. Working with photographers, doing crazy bad ass stuff always gets you a good look.
While so much of the hype is focused on Facebook and web related stuff, sponsors love to see tons of print media. When they pay so much for an advert, it helps them monetize how much it is worth for a rider to be on the cover. The brands spends a large amount of money to place an add on the inside cover, so for Bouj or whoever to be doing something unbelievable with the Starboard Tiki right in your face, that is worth a lot for a brand.
Thomas Traversa and his girlfriend do a great job together, awesome web clips, I even saw her out filming for the GA photoshoot last year. The cost savings to a brand to have these sort of girlfriend film teams is enormous and a real plus as a rider. Sure if you’re Køster, Brawzinio or Antoine you can get by on just being a badass but it sure looks to me like the people that are building their presence through print, web, and competition are the ones that are here to stay. While being a professional windsurfer sounds like all fun and games, you have to want it and make sure you do a great job on all aspects. When my nephew asks me if he should become a pro windsurfer like his dad and uncle what am I going to say. Is it too late to make the millions that the Naish, Dunkerbeck, Polokow, Pritchard, Siver era has enjoyed ? Every time I think yeah, it’s too late, you better start swinging a golf club, I see guys like Køster coming up, working hard, huge talent, getting the sponsorship, and living the dream. If you want it bad enough, and are ready to sacrifice everything you got, you can still do it. Work hard, play hard, and love it from your soul and there is nothing that can stop you.
Dave Hackford
Brand Manager Tushingham
Working in the windsurfing industry is pretty extraordinary if you compare it to the cut throat nature of other industries. We all want to be on the water windsurfing, and for that reason team riders will always exist, because they take the brand on the water, and effectively take their sponsor’s with them. There is nothing quite as rewarding as having the phone call from one of you riders on Sunday night to say they have clinched the National title. Apart from winning it yourself! So How does Tushingham work out they need a team rider? The first step is to find out if there is a budget to spend on a rider. The general rule of thumb for a brand is to allocate 5% of turnover directly to marketing initiatives. Those initiatives are spread across diverse areas: For example; photo shoots, advertising, social media costs, exhibitions, promotions, conferences and team riders. So any team rider needs to cruelly consider themselves as a ‘product that will help grow sales by reaching the consumer’. Once that has registered – the goal should be clear.
It is pretty hard to quantify the expenditure on many marketing initiatives, like exhibitions and social media, but good team riders can directly show a return. Back in the wonder years of windsurfing a ‘racing’ team rider could have a direct influence on sales of a board. If the rider won a national race the importer would see sales arrive on Monday morning. Racing participation has dwindled over the years. Tushingham has a core market in the Freeride and crossover sector of windsurfing, so with declining coverage of events from around the UK, it was important for us to consider supporting more team riders to show the products off on the beach in local patches.
Do’s and Don’ts
by Dave Hackford
DO
1.When getting started, build a relationship with your local shop or windsurfing centre. Every rider I know has started from this level.
2.Understand the raw basics of sponsorship, which is to help grow sales for the sponsor. The sponsor’s job is to help give you the tools to do it.
3. Stay in contact with your sponsor. But above all make sure you contact them more regularly with what you have delivered rather than asking them to deliver more to you.
4. Make sure you know about the equipment before you apply for sponsorship. You MUST believe in the kit.
5. Report back on the performance of the kit. Good and bad.
6. Look to the future. Consider the strength of the company that may sponsor you. A long term sponsorship relationship is generally beneficial. Is it the right company for five years ahead?
7. Understand how social media works, and use it.
8. When in the higher league – report back to your sponsor annually on what you have achieved.
DON’T
1. Assume potential sponsor’s know who you are, or you are looking for support.
2. Choose your sponsor based purely on financial return.
3. Only contact your sponsor when you need something
4. Criticise competitors kit too openly – you never know……..you may be knocking on their door.
5. Do not be seen on another brands kit
6. If you are going to switch sponsors let your old sponsor know well before hand. It’s a small sport so important to keep good relations within it if you want a career in professional windsurfing.
Luke Green
Team and Digital Media Manager, Tushingham
Sponsorship has changed a lot, as a brand, content is king, the more the better, populating websites, social media and online videos are the platforms that help us promote our products and we would seek our sponsored athlete to assist in this with rider driven articles to balance alongside our product information online. In compiling our team we seek a diversity of characters so you have people like Muzza who are great online and on demos and people like Timo who are really strong in print and video production. Peter Hart is a great all rounder, he produces content on and offline, engages with customers on his clinics and supports customers questions by email and on our website. Simon Bornhoft is similar and for coaches there is a great synergy as they promote the brand and themselves. You don’t have to have the most talent to be a valuable rider, being approachable and easy to talk to on the beach is important too, our British Slalom Champion James Dinsmore is excellent at this.
Ian Gregorelli
Owner Boardwise Windsurfing Shop
We have a long history of supporting up and coming sailors including Ben Proffitt, Byrony Shaw and Nick Dempsey. It shows how support can help people in the early stages of their career and no limit to what you can achieve with the right attitude. That is important to us, we want our riders to be good ambassadors off the water, willing to help other sailors and be influential on their local beach, in return typically we offer deals on kit. A good example of our riders would be top racer Sam Latham who is very active on the internet or Davey Edmondson, who is a larger than life wavesailor from Scotland who really helps get people excited about gear and directs business to our shop. You need that mix of characters on your team. Sponsorship can also come from being involved at grass roots in the sport, we like to support instructors at Club Vass for example and are heavily involved in Student Windsurfing where we help club leaders and bring kit to events so everyone can try our great sport. It’s something I enjoy doing, seeing people get on the water, it actually costs me money which people may laugh about me putting my hand in my pocket but I don’t mind, sponsorship is for the good of the sport !
Jimmy Diaz
PWA Chairman
The best athletes I know are the ones who from an early age knew exactly what they wanted and immediately started going after it. I believe to get sponsored and to become successful in windsurfing, or any other aspect of life for that matter, you have to have a deep rooted passion and love for the sport or chosen profession. This is what will give you the fuel to pursue your goals. Once you know you have this then it’s up to hard work and time on the water, although if you really love the sport “hard work” is actually play.
To become sponsored you have to show potential and value to your sponsors. There is a variety of ways to do this in the windsurfing industry. Some of the ways are through competition results, magazine and media exposure, clinics, and equipment testing. The most important thing right now would be to start competing as much as possible at your local and regional level. Set your goals to ultimately start winning these events. As you are getting closer to achieving this goal you can start looking to your local shops or distributors to see if you can set up a sponsorship agreement with them. Let them know as clear as possible your goals and your plans and how you plan to execute them. The clearer the picture you have in your head about where you want to go, the more confidence you will give a company to sponsor you. Start making a resume of your event results and collect any pictures or articles you may get from your local paper, newsletters, or magazines. Present this to the shop or company and let them know how serious you are about achieving your goals. Prove it to them by working hard and also offering to help with things such as in store clinics or demos. Be yourself and remember that enthusiasm, initiative, and being on time go a long way.
The post KEVIN PRITCHARD – HOW TO BE A PRO appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
Words Sarah Quita // Photos
John Carter & Julian Robinet
Coming from a small island in the Caribbean you have to travel a lot to compete. Do you still enjoy travelling after all these years?
Yes I still love travelling. Carrying all of those board-bags is definitely a hassle. But in the end when you make it to your destination, share the windsurfing passion with friends, meet new people, and experience another culture, it’s all worth it to me.
What advice can you give to our readers regarding travelling with excess baggage ?
Sometimes I take an extra (light) board bag with me in case they say my bags are too heavy. But most important of all: keep calm at check-in and always smile. Don’t have any loose pieces (extensions, fins, harness) in your board bags unless you secure them in towels or rash vests etc. Make everything as tight as possible so nothing moves and damages the board. To minimize excess charges your bags should be as light as possible so try and put loose parts in your luggage. If all else fails make, sure to distract the check in person when they’re weighing your bag! ha ha.
Which airlines do you recommend for travelling with boards and which ones are on your black list?
If I name my blacklist here then they might put me on theirs! ha ha. I love Turkish Airlines. They’re always easy with the bags and the service on board is great. KLM also has good service on board but getting your bags through check in is quite a nightmare and expensive.
Where do you train to prepare for the PWA ?
For the past three years I’ve been in Lanzarote, Tenerife, Jericoacoara, Aruba and Cape Town to practice. Freestyle you can really train anywhere but I think at the moment the best place to practice is Bonaire. The conditions are so easy, but more so it’s because of all the talented sailors there that push each other’s level on the water. This year I will travel to more wave destinations as I’m also moving towards wave sailing. It’s such a fun discipline, and if I get good enough I will give winning the PWA world title a shot as well! I’m also really looking forward to the Starboard photo shoot in Maui This is one of my favourite times of the year because it’s a week that is all about bonding with the rest of the team and having fun on the water together. That’s what windsurfing is all about to me.
“ When you make it to your destination, share the windsurfing passion with friends, meet new people, and experience another culture, it’s all worth it ’’
What boards do you normally travel with ?
For freestyle, usually my Starboard Flare 91L, it’s really fast and great in manoeuvres. In waves I’ve been using the NuEvo 73L and the Kode Wave 77L. I like both but prefer the Kode in smaller waves because it feels faster on the water. The NuEvo is amazing for carving.
It might surprise some people to learn alongside your windsurfing you have been until recently a full time student
Yes that’s why I had to miss out on most slalom competitions and could only compete in the summer for the past few years. Last April, after 3.5 years of studying I earned my bachelor’s degree in science and innovation management. For the moment I’m going to take some time off from university and focus more on windsurfing and travelling, but I think it’s important to pursue a master’s degree as well in the future.
You’ve balanced studying with travelling and competing what are your tips for being organised ?
If I can be very honest, and if you’d ask anybody who knows me I’m not the most organized person. At least.. I don’t plan very far ahead of time. But give me a short term deadline and I’ll get things done. I didn’t windsurf much when I was in Holland. At a certain point I was just too busy with studies. I basically studied for 10 weeks and then had 10 days off. I would always book my ticket about 4-5 days before my time off depending on where there was wind. So I’d travel about 4 times a year and then just compete. So actually I wouldn’t be very prepared before a competition. This is quite hard as my confidence level would be quite low but at the same time I would also have this “ I don’t have anything to lose so I’m going to give it my all” mindset which can be an advantage too.
What are your best and worst travel experiences ?
Until I was 18, I would always be accompanied by at least one of my parents (because I was underage and mostly afraid of flying). The first time I had to travel by myself back home from the Canaries, I managed to misread my departure hour and arrived at the airport too late and missed my flight. I burst into tears and the world ended for me then and there. Luckily my brother was there and could still think clearly. He straight away went and bought another ticket so I could still make my connecting flight. 1 hour and 700 euro’s later I was off on my first trip alone. Going to Sylt this year I was planning on arriving one day before registration. A few days after I booked flights we received notice that we would compete on this day if conditions allowed. As long as I would make all my flights I would get there on time. Murphy’s law though, my flight to Amsterdam got cancelled. Next flight was 22 hours later, so naturally I would miss my first connecting flight to Hamburg. I rebooked but when I got to Amsterdam it took ages to get the baggage so I missed that flight too. At this point I would do anything to get to Sylt on time so I bought my 3rd ticket to Hamburg, which happened to be first class. Sitting in first class made me forget my stress for 1 hour. Running so late, Olaf from Sail Loft Hamburg saved me from having to struggle on the train and drove me to Sylt in 3 hours flat. Although they had started to run the event, everything was looking good and I’d be just in time or so I thought. Just as we arrived I got a text saying that I’d missed my heat. pfff all that expense and effort for nothing. As it turned out there was no more wind for 10 days and so the result wouldn’t count anyway thankfully.
My best travel experiences are the places where I meet new friends that by the end of the trip, feel like family.
> Music is my travel essential. My iPod and recently a Bose speaker I bought so I can amplify my music anywhere I go
> My diary so I can write down my travelling adventures
> My Camera
Top 3 travel destinations and why ?
I have to go back to Cape town or explore more of South Africa. I had some great windsurfing there but besides that I was captured by the surroundings; this huge table mountain, Kirstenbosch, The wineries. just a half an hour drive and you are in such a different place. Such a melting pot of people, nationalities and cultures. So much to do. Cape town is magical!
- I love going to Alaçati, Turkey. The culture is so different to what I’m used to. The locals are so friendly and open the food is great and windsurfing when it’s windy is fuuuun! But I’ve only seen a bit of this country and I’d love to go and visit more and less westernised parts of it.
- Jericoacoara, Brazil. Again the windsurfing is great everything is so laid back and everything is about having fun in the sun there. The music is great and apart from Jeri there are many lagoons and other spots nearby you can visit.
What advice would you have for young up-and-coming freestylers who are hoping to reach your level some day?
Winning world titles is really cool but my focus is more on raising the level. For me it’s all about progress and enjoying the sport in all its diversity. I would advise them to not give up practicing because the moment you land that move you’ve been practicing for so long, is really worth it! Just have fun on the water and enjoy the crashes as much as the landed moves. Because actually the crashes make for the best stories.
1 Carry on - maximise your carry on, most international airlines allow 2 pieces, the less you check in the less you pay – simples
2 Don’t pack it - Remember you’re going windsurfing not modelling. Keep non essentials to a minimum – toiletries and extra clothes you can buy when you get there – every kilo counts !
3 Roof rack straps – a decent extra long set of straps is a must – need a lift with your gear from that dodgy taxi or find the hire car is half the size you booked – a good set of straps will get you out of Dodge faster than you can say ‘Bonjour Señor mi name Del Boy’
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A windsurfing and SUP trip last month of January to Dakhla_Morocoo with Stephane Etienne and Nicole Boronat. Thanks to Binter Canarias and Dakhla Spirit for the hospitality and Alfredo Vera for the footage!
morenotwins.com
facebook.com/morenotwins
The post STARBOARD IBALLA DAKHLA AIR TIME appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.
THE LOW-DOWN
The 94 & 100L Quads share their outline shape, with the 100l having a 0.5cm increase in thickness to make up the extra 6L. It’s a plug and play board that features new lightweight slot boxes for the fins.
BRAND CLAIM
The Quads are Starboard’s most versatile wave boards. The unique shape and the four fins generate maximum drive and acceleration, bringing an awesome production of speed, flow and power to your sailing in all wave & wind combinations. Stable and extremely responsive, the Quads are most rewarding when driven off the rails for powerful yet smooth turns. The four-fin grip gives a very connected sensation to the wave yet they still have the ability to lose the tail when extended through the lip for a rotational move.
PERFORMANCE
The Quad promised us great things after experiencing the exciting and accomplished 82L version last year, which was a solid reliable go anywhere try anything fun machine. The 94L still aspires to the same program with a comfortable autopilot like ride. The rocker line had the most accentuated tail kick of any board on test and requires an adjustment in technique to work the board in marginal onshore conditions and in these water states, gusts help lift the board free. Once on the face the pedigree of the Starboard Quads come to the fore and you are soon dreaming of bigger waves and bigger cutbacks that its designer Scotty McKercher has etched in his and the board’s DNA. Boasting an impressive sail carrying capacity the Quad 94L can work with a 6.5m engine. Carving ability is highly rated with a great deal of drive through turns and a high level of agility. Although containing 94L the Quad feels like the ride of a smaller board combining the best of both worlds.
To sum up the Quad 94, you have the volume and float to get you out when there are holes so it floats big and rides small. A great one board solution offering a very high level of control and confidence in feel and all the carving ability you can handle.
THE VERDICT
The more wave and wind power it receives the more it responds with grip, speed and composure. Rides and feels like a smaller board making it a great all round carver.
www.star-board-windsurfing.com
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THE LOW-DOWN
The Futura sits in between the ionic slalom and speed lines and the AtomIQ and Carve Freeride boards in the Starboard collection. Supplied with Drake Venom 42 Tuttle box fin.
BRAND CLAIM
“The Futuras are Starboard’s freerace boards. Freerace boards are designed to go extremely fast, like slalom boards, but with more user-friendliness and more comfort. They are the sports cars of windsurfing”.
PERFORMANCE
We thought we’d tested this model in hectic conditions last year in the U.K., but this trip was a whole different ball game! Now up against some newer rivals, it was interesting to see how this Carbon 111 would fare? Well the early planing and acceleration are still there and strong against the competition. (Although this time the lightest wind we had it in was about 18 knots!) As is the super-smooth comfort and control that the thin rails provide, largely due to the wide-tapering-into-thin tail. But it’s the gybing nature that’s the pièce de résistance of this shape. OK, it’s not the most manoevrable, but the glide and momentum out of turns is superb and it’s possible to easily, efficiently pull-off a good range of tight, wide and hooked arcs with changes of direction not being too much of an issue. In El Médano’s mix of swell and chop we found a little bit of nose slap (we’d have liked a longer mast track really in such an extremely challenging sea state), finding it slightly harder to fully let it fly than before, but generally it’s still pretty amazing when sailed super broad and more like a dedicated racing board this way than a ‘reach-back-and-forth’, pure blasting product. (GPS sailors take note.) Generally we think this size still likes sails with the draft a little further back, although you’ll need to tweak that mast track to control the liveliness and prevent unwanted spinout at the top end of the range, which is probably around the 30 knot mark with a 36 or 38-cm. fin – although, in fairness, Starboard do recommend that you need three fins to cover the range of this model. (30 knots is a more than respectable top-end for an 111L board using the standard fin!) More traditional draft-forward sails do pressure the back foot a lot, so bear this in mind when matching up your choices. Our major point on the wish list would be for the margin between the inboard and outboard strap options to be a little greater, to leave some growing room for less experienced riders to be able to squeak that extra bit of speed out of it once they’ve reached the required level. The inboard setting is fine for intermediates, but more accomplished riders might benefit from the straps nearer the rails. All-in-all this is one hell of a sweet stick still that offers performance that’s pretty close to a specialist slalom board but with the suspension, ride and cornering of a luxury touring car.
THE VERDICT
Smooth, forgiving, sweet to gybe, satisfyingly fast off the wind. The Futura’s still a luxurious and refined-feeling board that delivers heaps of control and allows you to concentrate on reeling in your rivals.
For more information on the
STARBOARD FUTURA 111L CARBON 2014
go to www.star-board-windsurfing.com
Other boards in this test:
Back to 110L Freerace test intro page
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THE LOW-DOWN
The Kode Waves come with vertical, square twin fins developed by MB Fins, specifically for the Kode Wave but also has a single fin option to turn the board into a high-wind blaster.
BRAND CLAIM
Fast to get on the plane with a high top end speed, they are the most ideal boards for big airs and double forwards. They just want to boost whether it’s jumping or wave riding, with excellent projection above the lip along with being able to spin around it. Drive and speed are initiated off of the front foot, as is the rotational spinning style of Köster. MB Twinzer fins in a new G10 construction aid in the early release of the tail whilst the board is still able to maintain the drive required for going down the line.
PERFORMANCE
You don’t have to look very far through the pages of this mag before you see Philip Köster heading for the stratosphere, or throwing huge spray from a heavy backside or front side hit. The Kode Wave relishes power and the more it can get, the happier you and it will be. But don’t be misled by the talk of boosting huge loops and physics defying wave acrobatics into thinking that this weapon is a dangerous beast to be tamed. The Kode requires no more skill to ride than any of this group. The basic rule applies that the more skill you have the more reward you get. The more time you spend the more skill you get and so on. The Kode just shows another angle from which the design can come to solve the wave performance equation. It is a refreshing time for board design in that all the modern boards here have quite distinct flavors. It was not always so, and the variety offered by boards such as the Kode prove that the kit now has never been better.
As with the 92L 2014 edition tested last year the smaller 82L does have you driving through your front foot to command speed, angle of attack and early planing. The board gets up to speed quickly and the free, high speed sensation has you seeking ramps and carving easily with plenty of drive in turns and great for just blasting if you feel like that too ! A great board that shows its pedigree as Koster’s choice, the Kode has the potential to turn the “average” into “epic”!
THE VERDICT
A board that everyone deserves to try. The Kode’s full on power style works particularly well if you put your foot on the gas and charge! Drive it off the front foot and enjoy the direct engaging experience. The 82L would cover most 80kg pilots to the top of their wind range.
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