Quick tips from Sam Ross, here he explains how your stance can affect your sailing.
Learning to windsurf and unlocking new moves can be challenging, but with this weeks windsurfing quick tips you will learn how to have a better stance. Keeping and increasing your speed is all about having the correct stance. Being able to quickly adapt to choppy conditions is a prerequisite for all else.
Quick Tip: Hook In – squeeze out and backwards with your hips Keep an upright back to keep an upright rig so you can keep your board flat.
Looking for a new board to suit your style, Starboard has the widest range of windsurfing boards in the world so you can be sure to find the perfect board for you, no matter your weight, skills or discipline.
Check out some nice angles of the forward loop, AKA Spin Loop, shot in Tobago, and pick out how I get over the board and pop the board & then steer it downwind in the air as I really throw the rig forwards and across me initiate the rotation. Then it is all about pulling up and in on the back arm and leg as you see the clew (LOOK BACK). Get out there and DO IT 🙂
THE VERDICT A crossover powerhouse first and foremost, the Kode certainly didn’t embarrass itself in this wave-focussed test. Exhibiting the true capabilities of a modern design, it was a stand out option when the conditions weren’t firing.
THE LOWDOWN Described by Starboard as their “onshore wave board that excels at freeride, freewave and freestyle,” the Kode is their crossover freewave range with real pedigree and heritage from years past. “So why is it included in a dedicated wave board test?” I hear you ask. Well, good question. Read the blurb of this all-new four board lineup though, and you begin to understand why – the 85 is the smallest of the range and as such has definite leanings towards wave sailing, particularly onshore conditions. Its design is one of the widest here, with a squashed diamond nose and tail and decidedly flat deck in front of the deckpads, before becoming more domed in the tail. The board’s rocker combines a faster flat section running through the centre line like a spine, and more curvature in the rails for improved turning. In doing so, there’s plenty of vee running throughout, which is said to cushion the ride when the conditions become severe. Being the crossover/freewave contender, there are not surprisingly a considerable number of tuning options available on the Kode, with inboard and outboard footstrap plugs and even a single fin option supplied as standard, in addition to the G10 thruster set (the side fins sitting in the brand’s unique and practical Starbox). To speed up the discipline-changeover process, colour coded tuning guides are provided on both the mast track and fin boxes, mitigating any guesswork when transitioning from freeride to freewave and into the waves. Produced in the brand’s environmentally conscious Flax Balsa construction, the responsible production hallmarks don’t end there, with natural rubber Yulex straps supplied and various other green initiatives clearly embedded into the brand’s mantra. At a retail price of £1775.00 and supplied with two fin setups and four straps, incorporating the excellent K9 anti-twist plates, the Kode’s value for money is attention grabbling … but how does it stack up against its wave-dedicated rivals?
BRAND CLAIM “The brief for the new Kodes was to deliver the best onshore wave board yet excel in freeride, freewave and freestyle as the Kode legacy demands.”
PERFORMANCE Being a freewave platform, it came as no surprise that the Kode was one of the standout boards in this group in small waves and below-par slop. It feels larger than many and can carry a large sail and weight well, getting going early and feeling easy and plug-and-play underfoot. It points upwind well and cuts a smooth path through choppy seas, the hull shape and footstrap/deckpad comfort combining to make life uncomplicated. It makes the rider feel as if you can go anywhere unhindered, its soft release and measured response inspiring the rider to venture into unpredictable conditions. Tacking the Kode is also easy, the wide shoulders and flat deck around the nose and mast track providing a large landing pad as you skip round. With its fun, playful nature in poor conditions, we were prepared to be let down in the waves … yet the Kode held its side of the bargain admirably when the conditions turned on. It was certainly no embarrassment on the wave, possessing a smooth and flowing nature rather than being sharp or aggressive. Push hard through the front foot to initiate, it keeps its speed through the turn well, whilst the wide nose is redirected easily off any broken water. In stronger winds and larger more critical waves it does begin to feel its size, requiring a forceful style to keep it engaged and driving through the corners, yet it remains predictable and well-mannered at all times. If you’re looking for a one-board solution to blast around in coastal conditions, throw yourself into some aerial antics (even some freestyle stunts), and mix it up at your local break, the Kode should be high on the consideration list.
VITAL STATS Volume (Quoted): 85L Length: 224 cm Width: 59.5 cm 1ft off: 40.5 cm Bottom shape: Vee with double concave from nose to tail, finishing in vee in tail. The vee is most pronounced throughout. Weight (‘Naked’): 6.39 kg Fins: Drake FreeWave 28 G10 (US) / Stone 18 G10 (US) / 2 x Natural Wave 11 G10 (Starbox) Sail Range (Quoted): 4.0-6.0 m Sizes Available: 85, 95, 105,115.
2019/20 UKWA WINDSURFER OF THE YEAR WINNER ANNOUNCED
The UKWA is proud to announce the winner of the 2019/ 2020 Windsurfer of the year has gone to James Dinsmore and say, “James is a very worthy winner of this prestigious award and will top off a great season for him winning for the 7 consecutive years the UKWA Slalom champion. Which has never been achieved before. This is despite tough competition from seasoned racers and up and coming youngsters. James is a fantastic windsurfing ambassador and well respected by all those who come in contact with him and he always finds the time to assist those around him within the windsurfing community.
In addition to his racing credentials, he just such a modest, approachable guy. He was also instrumental in and continues to coordinate the local Windsurfing Slalom Training series on Hayling Island, many of those racers of all abilities have benefitted from his dedication and a true ambassador to the sport.”
Bob Ingram UKWA chairman said, “I am very pleased to be presenting James with this award, having know him for many years and his lovely family. I couldn’t think of a more worthy winner and glad that the public thought so as well. I am convinced he will use this year as Windsurfer of the year to good effect and inspire others to take up and reap the rewards of windsurfing competition.”
Well done to all the other praiseworthy nominees who gave a James a run for his money this year, Pete Young (speed), Clare Elliott (Freestyle), Mark Kay (Racing), Phil Horrocks (Wave) all of which have done an exceptional job in their discipline and we wish them all well for the upcoming season.
DEFI WIND JAPAN 2020 – Top guns and weekend racers are in the starting’s blocks!!
Quick brief
The Defi Wind Japan kicks off tomorrow in Miyakojima!
Albeau, Dunkerbeck, Mortefon, Cousin and many more top guns will compete!
107 riders includings pros and amateurs are expected on the start line tomorrow.
The north wind allowed some good training over the past days and should blow tomorrow.
Blessings and traditional shows opened the event tonight.
REPORT
The Defi Wind Japan 2020 begins tomorrow! More than 100 riders will be gathered on the starting line from tomorrow on and for four days on the heavenly spot of Maehama beach in Miyakojima (Okinawa, Japan). Japanese and European weekend racers will have the opportunity to take on the many champions who have made the trip, such as the reigning PWA Slalom world champions Pierre Mortefon and Delphine Cousin. Of course, they will also be able to compare themselves to the living legends Antoine Albeau (25x World Champion) and Björn Dunkerbeck (44 x World Champion). For this first competition of the season between the best windsurfers in the world, we can definitely trust Arnon Dagan, Taty Frans, Jordy Vonk, Antoine Questel, Julien Quentel, Alexandre Cousin, Marion Mortefon or Kevin Grosjean and many others to give the crowd favourites a run for their money. The game is extremely open so clever is the one who could bet on the podium for tomorrow’s long distances. The north wind has been blowing well those past days to delight the participants already present, with many able to work on their perfect gear setups! Wind should continue to blow tomorrow to start the first race in the morning. According to local tradition, the Defi Wind Japan 2020 was blessed through a traditional prayer gathering all the participants tonight.
After the lively opening ceremony of traditional Miyakojima shows, the start time was given as 9 am local time tomorrow morning! Stay tuned !
THE VERDICT More adaptable than the Da Curve 88 tested last year, the Da Bomb is a wave board thoroughbred, offering comfort and balance through both feet, and with a versatile carving style that simply loves to be pushed.
THE LOWDOWN The Da Bomb has been in the Tabou range for three seasons now, and in the words of the brand, has been “evolved steadily to adopt the latest trends and styles in the sport”. Described as their option for the ‘new school wave rider’, it is short yet wide, retaining plenty of width in the tail, with a subtle wingered step before finishing in a swallow tail. There’s plenty of dome to the deck, tapering down to thinned rails, intended for easier initiation into the corners. The rails themselves are super sharp in the tail, before tucking under the board early and becoming soft in the nose – reminiscent of a short surfboard. Yet the key development for the new season is a faster rocker and reduced tail kick, aimed at improving the board’s early planing and speed. Any loss in turning potential is then said to be countered by the inclusion of large channels in the tail, with the aim of increasing looseness and control in the turn. Produced in the brand’s new wave carbon innegra flex (WCIF) construction, it certainly looks the part in its bright green-blue livery, and draws the eye with its definite surf style influences. Supplied with an MFC thruster fin package and a double screw back strap setup as standard, it offers six front strap positions to provide an abundance of tuning permutations to meet varying riding styles and demands. The diamond-grooved deckpads are also incredibly thick, albeit surprisingly easy to compress when screwing in the straps.
BRAND CLAIM “The Da Bomb’s fast rocker allows you to catch every wave, while the mini-channels on the bottom add looseness for tight and controlled turns.” – Fabien Vollenweider.
PERFORMANCE Taking the Da Bomb out in marginal vanilla conditions, it gets going early and accelerates to a respectable speed, yet feels a little lacklustre and passive in manner. We tried to understand why and believe it’s to do with the setup and fittings. Firstly, the deckpads of the Tabou are incredibly thick and soft, which combined with the soft straps provide a uniquely cushioned ride. The mast track of the 84 is also a good 5 cm further back than on most, increasing the nose length and making it feel quite directional initially, despite its short length. We played with the mastfoot position and it certainly changes the character of the board, yet the dampening of the fittings can’t be overcome. As the conditions turn on however, they become a real asset rather than a drawback, absorbing harsh feedback and allowing the rider to lock in to maintain their stance. It is worth taking extra time to adjust the straps precisely to your taste; if the straps are too big you can easily find yourself slopping around in them. Feeling controlled and connected through the tail, rather than loose or nervous, the rider can drive power through the board confidently, using its speed to charge at ramps on the way out for some serious airtime. Yet it’s on the way in, in a wave environment that you soon appreciate the Da Bomb’s capabilities. On the wave face the Da Bomb has a truly versatile manner, gripping through its rail during front foot entries, yet providing plenty of feel and bite through the back foot if the pilot wishes to tighten the radius mid-turn. In cross-onshore to onshore conditions, the 84 holds its speed well through the arc, the channels and width in the tail enabling the rider to gauge and redirect on demand. We moved the mastfoot right to the back of its track in these conditions, which increased the board’s pivotal nature through the tail. The by-product means that there is also plenty of volume and stability as you step round the front during a tack! And in larger cross-shore days we moved the mastfoot forward to increase the control and drive through the length of the board’s rail. In these conditions the Da Bomb feels more and more at home, thriving on being driven hard through the front foot for a smooth, addictive and powerful carve.
VITAL STATS Volume (Quoted): 84L Length: 220 cm Width: 58.5 cm 1ft off: 41 cm Bottom shape: Vee in the nose, to vee with pronounced double, which extends all the way to the channel in the tail. Weight (‘Naked’): 6.62 kg Fins: MFC TF2 19 G10 (US) + 2 X MFC TF 11 RTM (Slot). Sail Size: 4.2-6.6m Sizes Available: 77, 84, 94,104.
Digitalformat. (Prices include delivery anywhere globally 10 times a year.)
Cover: Thomas Traversa flying high at Île aux Vaches, Brittany.
Photo: Pierre Bouras.
BIG JUICY READS
MANIC MONDAY John Carter, Timo Mullen and Thomas Traversa tell the tale of a manic Monday in December as northwest winds with a monster swell hit Brittany.
EMERALD PARADISE
From waves to flat water, Bastien Ramery fills us in on the attractions of the Emerald Sea in Madagascar as he recalls his trip there.
DECADE WAVES
On the eve of a new decade, Robby Naish, Sara Hauser and Marcilio Browne sailed Jaws/Pe’ahi; the talented trio tell us more about their sessions.
THE CHOSEN ONES
Emma Wilson and Tom Squires will represent Great Britain in windsurfing at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, we learn more about the dynamic duo.
AQUAMAN
A former European youth slalom champion and world champion in SUP racing, Arthur Arutkin is a talented all-rounder; we get an insight into his life.
SPEEDY RECOVERY
Karo Van Tonder suffered a serious shoulder injury at 2018’s Lüderitz Speed Challenge that required surgery. Karo tells us more about her inspiring comeback journey.
SURVIVE AND RIDE
The 2019 Aloha Classic was more survive and ride than float and ride! We take a look at some of the tactics the pros used.
FABIEN SHAPES
Fabien Vollenweider is one of windsurfing’s most respected shapers and the man behind Tabou’s board designs; he gives us a revealing insight into his work.
GEAR SHED
ON TEST: 2020 125 LITRE FREERIDE & FREERACE BOARDS
The test team look at a selection of 2020 Freeride & Freerace boards designed for your blasting pleasure. The lineup includes;
FANATIC JAG LTD 125, GOYA BOLT PRO 127, JP MAGIC RIDEPRO 119, RRD FIREMOVE LTE 120, SEVERNE FOX 120, STARBOARD FUTURA FLAX BALSA 117, TABOU ROCKET+ CIF 123
TEKKERS
PETER HART MASTERCLASS – BOARD CHOICE
As board categories grow, Peter Hart, with erudite comments from Tris Best, sheds some much needed light on the subject of correct board choice.
MOVE ON UP WITH JEM HALL – AERIAL TIME
This month Jem looks at the frontside aerial as a way to boost your wave riding and your ability to work with the wave.
BOARDSHORTS
LATEST & GREATEST
Grittier than a Mills & Boon novel, this is windsurfing’s latest and greatest news; worth making two cups of tea for!
SITTIN’ ON THE DUNNY
EDITORIAL – NATURAL HIGH
Time spent windsurfing is time well spent says the Ed.
AFFAIRS OF THE HART – HONESTY
Harty explains why being truly honest with yourself and those looking to help, is the best way to improve.
Puclaro 20 20 brings together some of the best exponents of Chilean and Argentine freestyle in one of the most iconic windsurfing spots in northern Chile. Puclaro Lake is located in the heart of the Elqui Valley with winds of 15-30 knots all year round. Check out the video from Oliver Rios Kruger.
WHERE TO LEARN TO WINDSURF IN 2020 | PLANET HOLIDAYS
Always wanted to learn to windsurf or are you already an accomplished sailor but looking to teach the kids to learn to windsurf on an epic family holiday? The team atPlanet Windsurf Holidays have scoured the globe looking for the very best windsurfing lagoons, the most luxurious family resorts and the world’s greatest windsurf centres. Using this vast knowledge, they bring us their best spots to learn to windsurf in 2020:
Learn to windsurf Le Morne Le Morne is Planet’s favourite learn to windsurf spot. The centre here is located right on a large, shallow flat-water lagoon and is decked out with all the latest equipment for adults and children alike. The instructors also have an absolute passion for children and have developed a few unique tricks and gadgets for getting children on the water and up and riding quickly. Just around the corner from the centre the St Regis Mauritius offers barefoot luxury at its best. And with a number of restaurants, a free kids club, amazing spa and a host of inclusive activities it’s the perfect place for partners and families to hang out.
Learn to windsurf Dakhla If you are looking for a dedicated learn to windsurf holiday where you can progress quickly and really focus every waking hour on honing your skills, Dakhla is the place to be. Here you can roll out of your bungalow and be on the water in seconds. The vast flat water lagoon stretches as far as the eye can see and offers a safe windsurfing space. With hotels dedicated to windsurfers, restaurants serving up fresh, affordable, healthy food, and a laid-back atmosphere, Dakhla is a windsurfer’s paradise.
Learn to windsurf Soma Bay With year round sunshine, warm waters and mild temperatures, you won’t mind falling off the board a few times in Soma Bay, Egypt. This luxury holiday resort on the Red Sea offers all the amenities you could want for a seaside vacation in the sun, along with amazing windsurfing conditions – of course! The waist high flat waters combine with side-onshore winds to make for great learning conditions and the centres Planet works with all offer great safety cover and all the latest equipment.
Learn to windsurf Lemnos Lemnos in Greece is a totally unique find. This island is set away from the mass tourism of other Greek islands but still offers a world-class hotel, mind-blowing cuisine, a great centre and an epic windsurf bay with perfect conditions. With villa-style accommodation for an affordable price tag atKeros Blue this is also a great spot for a summer family getaway. You can even combine your windsurf holiday to Greece with a few nights exploring Athens or some of the other islands.
Learn to windsurf Portugal The FeelViana Hotel in West Portugal is the perfect place to learn to windsurf or progress your skills. The hotel is owned and run by an ex-professional windsurfer and every little detail has been thought out, down to the centre and bar on the beach, the convenient storage, the spa area with yoga and sauna and health-conscious, gourmet restaurant. The hotel is constantly innovating and also offers a host of activities to enjoy when you’re not on the water, from their own wake park to mountain biking the beautiful surrounds!
First part of the Defi Wind Japan 2020 taking place in Miyako-jima (宮古島) from February 01 to February 04. The second part is the Defi Wind superstars and will be released soon.
Rene Egli bring us news of their summer Starboard Tiki Camps..
Starboard Tiki Camp Youngster Edition July 14th – 18th 2020
You love to blast along full speed, or have just started your first vulcan, spock, or loop attempts? Then our Tiki Camp Youngster Edition is for you! Young Rippers, don’t miss your chance to take your windsurfing to the next level! Starboard and Rene Egli have put together an exclusive Windsurfing Camp coached by former PWA Freestyle competitors Phil Richards and Danielle Lucas and have invited Youth Star Lennart Neubauer along to share all his tips and experiences with you throughout the camp.
Lennart Neubauer in Fuerteventura
Have fun on the water and meet other rippers like you while you improve through professional land and water coaching especially designed for you. Do you want to be a part of the next generation of young rippers? Make sure to join our Tiki Camp in Fuerteventura this Summer.
We will host this year the very first “Starboard Tiki Camp Girls Edition” with Lena Erdil and Kathi Seelack from mywindstories.com. These ladies created a new windsurf community from and for girls and will share all their experience and knowledge from 03.-08.08.2020 with the participants. The camp is aimed at intermediate and advanced participants who can manage the waterstart and are interested in freeriding, racing and first jumps.
On each camp day, two windsurfing units are planned. Around noon there will be a lunch-break, during which the videos of the previous windsurfing unit will be analyzed. After the afternoon windsurf-session, the regeneration units will take place to be fit for further windsurfing sessions.
In summary:
– 6 days coaching on water and on land
– Recovery training
– Event Lycra
– Lunch
– Professional photos and videos
If you want a windsurfing fix in the East Midlands, then Rutland Water is a mighty fine place to go sail. Although it is man-made, it is a haven for wildlife and rich in nature, as well as being a playground for watersports; not to mention supplying water to East Midlands! It is the largest reservoir in England and wind foiling is giving inland locations like Rutland Water a resurgence; foil advocate and local windsurf instructor David Horan and regular Rutland Water photographer Andy Balmford tell us more about its windsurfing scene and their relationship with its waters.
WordsDavid Horan and Andy Balmford // PhotosAndy Balmford Photography & Sam Buckland.
HISTORY
David Horan – “Rutland Water is a man made reservoir which was formed by flooding two valleys. Construction started in 1971 and was completed in 1976. When Rutland opened it was the largest man-made reservoir in Europe. The reservoir covers an area of over 3100 acres and has a capacity of 124 million cubic metres. The dam at the east end of the lake is 1.2 km long and the maximum depth of the lake is 34 metres. There is a nature reserve at the west end of the lake where a breeding pair of ospreys can be seen in the summer months. Rutland Water has extensive cycling and walking paths around the body of the reservoir, numerous cafes, a cycle hire centre, childrens play parks, mini-golf, bug-topia, an aqua park with inflatable equipment in summer and a bird watching centre as well as lots of space to enjoy a picnic or bbq with friends. The lake is big enough that it really feels like you are in the great outdoors away from it all; and even on those busy summer days on the lake shore you can soon escape any noise by getting out on the water.
LAUNCHING The only launch location is at the village of Whitwell on the north side of the lake, halfway between the towns of Oakham and Stamford. Visitors must sign in at the Rutland Watersports centre/shop who provide safety cover. After signing in, you can proceed to the car park adjacent to the water with access directly onto the main sailing area.
TUITION Rutland Watersports offer a variety of tuition from complete beginner to intermediate planing and introduction to wind foiling through to sustained flight. They have a variety of kit to suit these activities or tuition can be done on your own personal kit. Beginner and non-planing intermediate kit is available to hire subject to conditions. If you are looking for something to entertain the rest of the family while you head out on the water there are other options at the watersports centre including paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing and canoeing. Other alternatives are the Aqua Park and bicycle hire.
BEST WIND DIRECTIONS The best wind directions are either west-northwest or east, although you can sail in almost all directions. North is the main exception as it becomes particularly patchy due to the trees on the north shoreline. In a west-northwest the wind blows cleanly down the length of the north arm creating good waves in the middle for those looking to jump and flat water at the sides for gybing and freestyle tricks. In an easterly the wind comes clean over the dam allowing for long runs the width of the main body. Again the middle provides waves for jumping whilst the edges are flat. For budding speedsters, after tacking your way up to the dam the water is super flat and has good wind. Southwest works reasonably well, although to make the most of it you need to sail to the south side of the lake and it’s a long wobble back if the wind does take a turn for the worse.
“When Rutland opened it was the largest man-made reservoir in Europe.”
HAZARDS There are very few hazards at Rutland. The water gets deep reasonably quickly from the edges with very few large rocks to worry about. There is one tour boat which has right of way over all other craft, but this is rarely an issue. The only other thing to be aware of is at various weekends of the year there are dinghy races in the main body, but as the lake is quite large these can easily be avoided by sailing in a different area. With regards to weed this is rarely an issue, occasionally there may be some tight to the edge, but once launched you should be all clear.
KIT TIPS On Rutland water the conditions vary massively, sometimes in the same day! As it is a confined area of water, meaning generally smaller waves, the lake is turning into a bit of a mecca for windfoils. The long unobstructed runs with few hazards are ideal for foiling. Also the ability to glide through lulls and gusts which are standard for any inland water make it a great option.
For those not into the windfoil craze many windsurfers choose to use freestyle or freestyle-wave boards. These get up and go early and deal with the chop. When choosing your board size I would recommend something slightly larger in volume as it will allow you to glide a little easier through the lulls and if the wind does drop you will always have enough volume to float your way home. Even in quite strong winds many choose boards of around 100 litres volume.
LOCALS Rutland water is a busy little spot with a good group of windsurfers to be found by the beach pretty much every day the wind is over 10 knots. Frequently found stood on the shoreline waiting for the next front to blow through or just pulling off a stylish Rutland gybe – i.e. hopping off and turning round before beach starting in the other direction! The local windsurfers are very friendly and always willing to give you pointers and have a chat. Depending on the conditions, sometimes more chat and less sailing! The main tricksters on windy days are Mark Pacey and Keith Ellis trying out a variety of freestyle moves. On the less windy days Steve Bignall, Bee Furber and Bob Sentance can be seen cruising round on foils.
RUTLAND WATERSPORTS Rutland Watersports is a great place to work with really friendly colleagues who all enjoy time on the water themselves. We stock lots of the smaller bits of kit that often unexpectedly reach the end of their lives: UJ’s, harness lines, uphauls, fin bolts etc. We are also stockists for Starboard, Severne, Ion, Fanatic and North and although we don’t hold larger items in the shop, we are always happy to order things in. The staff are very helpful and if you are stuck they will always lend a hand. The centre has changing rooms for customers which have hot showers year round, which is nice in winter, but can be very busy in summer. There is also safety boat cover provided for all water users offering a bit of peace of mind in case it all goes wrong!
SUSTENANCE If you are looking for a snack mid-session or a hot drink, next to the beach the Harbour Cafe has various choices, as does the Crafty Fox Café a short walk away. A little further away in Whitwell there is the Noel Arms, a small pub offering food and beverages. If you are looking to explore further around the lake there is the Lakeside Cafe over on the south shore at Normanton offering views over the water or there is The Horse and Jockey, also on the south shore at Manton.”
David Horan – “I only got into windsurfing just over 6 years ago. I was living on the Isle of Man at the time and working as a landscaper. My wife, Rachel, and I went on holiday island hopping around Hawaii and our second stop was on Maui. We stayed in Paia and went exploring from there. We happened across Ho’okipa Beach and saw people windsurfing, it was pretty amazing to see. I came home to the Isle of Man and decided I would buy some kit and teach myself as there were no windsurf schools at the time (nowadays you can check out Dave’s Waves – daveswavesiom.com for instruction). I sailed on my own for a while whilst I learnt the basics on the local beach, Port Erin. After a month I met a few other windsurfers and began windsurfing more and more. The Isle of Man has a really great scene and the generosity of other windsurfers, especially Neill Clague, helped me improve quickly.
About a year later Rachel got a job at the University of Leicester so we moved to the midlands and Rutland was the closest place to sail. Having the opportunity to change jobs I decided to take the plunge and train up as a windsurf instructor. By this point windsurfing was a passion that had taken over my life. I did a RYA Start Windsurf instructor course and got a job at Rutland Watersports. I enjoyed it so much I soon trained up further and became an intermediate instructor. When foils started coming into production I got my name down early for a Starboard GT foil. Having watched videos on YouTube it looked amazing and I couldn’t wait to give it a go. As soon as it arrived I was straight out on it. A good few crashes later to say the least I was up and flying. The feeling as you take off and the noise falls to silence while you fly over the water was better than I could have ever imagined. I then came across an advert for a foil instructor course and decided I would give it a go. Two weeks in Weymouth at the OTC with coaching from Sam Ross and Tris Best, who could resist?
Since that course I foil whenever the wind is light and windsurf when it gets stronger. I’m at Rutland pretty much every day either to teach or just get out and enjoy myself on a small sail and freestyle board or a foil in light winds. I teach both windsurfing and foiling at Rutland as well as sailing, SUP’ing, powerboating and kayaking.
HIGHS One of the best days I’ve had was in a west-northwest direction straight down the arm next to the launch location back in around November time. The waves were stacking up in the middle and it was solid 4.2 conditions, and by that I mean some people had changed down to 3.7!. Again I was on my 86 litre, but it was so consistent I wasn’t worried. There was about 30 windsurfers out and almost as many watching. Everyone was getting huge air and carving along the waves. Days at Rutland don’t get much better. I don’t think anyone had anything left when they came off the water!”
ANDY BALMFORD
Andy is a part-time sports action photographer based in Rutland but covers sporting events nationally. A Canon user he shoots with 70-200 F2.8L and 500 mm F4.5L lenses with 1Ds Mark III and 1D Mark IV cameras. Andy’s the man behind most of the Rutland shots you see in this article; he gives us an insight into his shooting and history with Rutland water.
Andy – “My first introduction to Rutland Water was back in 2004 when I became a seasonal and weekend safety boat driver and powerboat instructor. Over the last 15 years I have become a beach lifeguard performing lifesaving activities at Rutland Water.
My love of photography naturally led me to sports action with hockey and rugby shooting for the local press. But my interest in watersports and relationship with Rutland Water has created a great fun group with the local windsurfers. I have a good knowledge of wind based activities and am able to sail whilst not able to windsurf, that along with my 15 year safety boat experience gives me a good eye for an impending shot.
The guys and girls at Rutland are a hardy breed and sail in all conditions. With my own favourite set of conditions being 40+ mph westerly winds when the brave souls battle against the elements as the wind blows down the arms of the lake creating huge chop and waves, that’s when the real photos occur. Generally the winter months provide the best action. Summer is foiling and speed runs rather than aerial loops and jumping.
The Rutland windsurf scene is awesome. We have some real characters and although we don’t mix too much socially, there are often groups that head down to Hunstanton and the south coast. Amenities at Rutland are great with showers and changing facilities. Its waters can provide some challenges for both novices and experienced sailors; with winds gusting in storms up to 70 mph at times, it can be taxing!
I can thoroughly recommend a visit to Rutland Water for all levels. The watersports centre provides great tuition and guidance and the launching beach is always alive with old hands willing to offer advice on sail and board size. If you want to know more about the local area, there’s an amazing museum in Oakham, they have an awesome resource bank and are always really helpful. You can check them out on the web at www.rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk.
If you want to see more of Andy’s work then follow Andy Balmford Photography on Instagram – @avbsportsphotography – or check out www.avbsportsphotography.pixieset.com.
“Learning to windsurf and unlocking new moves can be challenging, but with this windsurfing quick tips video you will learn how to keep a more stable sailing position by moving your elbows right. Keeping and increasing your speed is all about having the correct stance and adapting quickly to choppy conditions. Follow Sam’s brilliant tips from this week and see how your elbow position can affect your sailing.
“The British windsurfing community lost a few a days ago one of its most naturally talented wave sailors – Danny Seales. It is testament to the depth of Danny’s talent that in the 90s he was doing moves that few if any can do today and had a range of sailing skills that could threaten a UK podium three decades on!
Stylish, innovative and with wave riding skills on starboard tack that were truly world class, he was gifted with a rare ability. His skills weren’t limited to windsurfing either, as anyone who saw him surf or kitesurf knew. Of course you can’t talk about Danny without mentioning his cheeky smile and ability to have everyone laughing in his company, or the love he had for his daughter India.
A JustGiving page has been set up by Timo Mullen to raise £3,000 to provide a respectful memorial for his daughter India to be proud of and help towards the driving lessons and car he always wanted India to have – https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dannysealesk111.
Rest in peace Danny.” – Finn Mullen.
Timo Mullen – “Sealesyyyyyy!!! My best friend, my gaurdian angel, my daughters Godfather. The most radical and naturally gifted windsurfer and kitesurfer i have ever met. Danny your skills on the water in Cotillo, the heaviest beach break in the world have never been topped, innovative to the end, you were the master of style and progression. Danny you always had a positive thing to say about everyone, you never shyed away from giving someone a compliment particularly the ladies! My heart is truly broken by your death, I loved you like a brother, i so wish i could hear you and hug you one more time, so glad i got my mum to answer the phone to you a few weeks ago she loved you too!
I promised you i would always make sure your gorgeous daughter India is looked after, your wallet was full of love not $$$! Please everyone if you can help out or leave a lovely message for Danny, link also in my bio I love you Danny xxx www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dannysealesk111”
Nik Baker – “It’s taken me a few days and a windy session yesterday to get my head around the news about my long time friend Danny Seales passing. I’m sure it has taken everybody back a bit and it has once again given us all something to think about. How we live our lives, the people we have in it, who we spend time with, who we love and the time we spend worry about tomorrow and the future. I know I do this far to much.
Danny was and always has been cheeky, fun, caring and loving. I don’t have enough memory on here to tell all the great stories I have about him. (Some I cant on here anyway 😳) we windsurfed together 80% of the time from our early ages of 12-14 all the way through both our 1st ever trip to Maui and beyond until he went his way in fuerte. He had skill, Style, drive and compassion for his watersports and was naturally great at most of them. Never afraid push the limits which often ended up with some sort of injury…. he had many but always came through and never let them hold him back.
I will enjoy telling my stories and adventures of Danny to all who knew him and look forwards in hearing others as I know there are many😉
writing this with tears in my eyes💔😢 I will miss knowing he is here up to mischief with his big grin and bigger biceps 💪. My heart goes out to his beloved India and family❣️
I will remember him along with the others we’ve lost on the way.
We’re only here once let’s try to enjoy it. 🙏❣️
RIP Danny 🙏❤️”
Guy Cribb – “Although Danny’s life has ended slightly earlier than he expected it was a much fuller and wilder life than most will achieve if they live twice as long.
Danny you were an incredible athlete who never let training get in the way of a good party. You were bad to the bone but had such a big hug and heart.
You knew how to get into trouble more than you knew how to get out of trouble, and therefore helped so many people to push their own boundaries much wider. I’m going to miss your calamity and carnage, and you calling me treacle.
You fathered the very best you could and lived for your daughter India. She was your world, everything else was trivial. Your dancing will always make me laugh, but I hope for India’s sake that isn’t genetic.
Thank you for teaching my boys how to fight when you babysat, they loved their Naughty Danny, Grand Theft Auto personified.
You’re the only windsurfer to ever do such a radical one handed tweaked air that you could touch the nose of your board- to this day no one else managed that. You killed it surfing and kiting too. You were like Kai Lenny on the water and Pablo Escobar on land.
A gap has been left in the watersports community that’s unlikely to be filled as the world rolls forwards.
Would everybody please raise their glasses to celebrate those that live life beyond the boundaries you live by. There’s so much conformity and tradition in this world that bore the fuck out of people like you Danny, and you were never afraid to laugh in the face of that and demonstrate alternatives.
The most loveable rogue. You never got old or slobby enough to have man boobs (and they would have been massive!) and I’m so proud of you for that. Your coffin is going to be the funniest shape and you’d think that hilarious. You died with dignity amigo.
You brought happiness to so many, but even those you brought crisis to will miss you. The most loveable rogue.
You managed to live your entire life your own way. The more I think back about you the more I laugh! Party on SEALSEY!!!!!! Thank you for showing us your way. Reeespect.
The undisputed King of Cotillo. Lover. Fighter. Radical. Friend. You live on through us, treacle. ⚡️🕺😍”
Video by Timo Mullen – “Little video i threw together of some footage i found from the BSP media DVD Backwash, just to hear his voice again is worth it, love you Danny and keep donating for India on link below www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dannysealesk111“
