East Coast Junior Windsurfing Championships and Junior Olympics

 

NOTICE OF RACE

East Coast Junior Windsurfing Championship 2008

US Sailing Junior Olympic Festival

July 16-18, 2008

Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, Martha's Vineyard, MA

The East Coast Junior Windsurfing Championship, a US Sailing Junior Olympic Festival Event, will be hosted by the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club on the Island of Martha's Vineyard July 17-18, 2008 (Thursday-Friday). There will also be an optional windsurfing/racing clinc July 16 (Wed) and a separate Long Distanc Race July 19 (Sat). The Long Distance Race is part of the Vineyard Cup (www.VineyardCup.com), and is open to all ages on any windsurf gear.

1 RULES

1.1 The regatta will be governed by the rules as defined in The Racing Rules of Sailing 2005-2008, including U.S. Windsurfing Association Prescriptions, and the Sailing Instructions.

2 ELIGIBILITY, EQUIPMENT, and ENTRY

July 17-18, 2008

All competitors must be under 19 years of age (have not reached their nineteenth birthday prior to December 31, 2007) and must be members of US Sailing (for U.S. citizens). The competition will be held on Techno 293 One Designs. Open rigs are permitted under the following USWA prescriptions below.

Under 12 (U12) years old - Maximum sail size 6.0m

Under 15 (U15) years old - Maximum sail size 7.5m

Under 17 (U17) years old - Maximum sail size 8.5m

Under 19 (U19) years old - Maximum sail size 9.5m

A minimum of three competitors is necessary to constitute an age group class. Otherwise, age groups will be combined.

2.1a Per Techno 293 Class Rules as modified by USWA, sails with more than 3 cambers and/or 7 battens are prohibited

2.1b Only masts from the approved class list with no more than 75 percent carbon and weight equivalents are permitted.

2.1c Booms are restricted to alloy/aluminum construction � note that carbon booms are not permitted under class rules

2.1d Only original fins or manufacturers' replacements permitted. The maximum fin size under class rules is 46 cm. 

2.1e Techno 293 Class Rules are available at http://www.techno293.org/ Sail sizes have been modified by USWA prescriptions.

2.2 Techno 293 One Design Boards are available to charter for $75 (does not include rig) by advance registration on a first come, first serve basis. Contact Nevin Sayre at nsayre@aol.com. It is best to bring your own rigs as very limited charter rigs are available.

3 FEES

3.1 Entry Fee for Registrations postmarked or received by June 30th - $75

Entry Fee for Registrations postmarked or received after June 30th - $90

Entry fee includes July 16 clinic, and registrtation to the regatta July 17 & 18. Two

lunches and one dinner is included. 

3.2 Separate Vineyard Cup Windsurfing Long Distance Race, July 19th, is $40 to benefit.

Sail Martha's Vineyard. www.VineyardCup.com

4 SCHEDULE

4.1 July 16, 2008 1100-1200 Registration and Check-in at VHYC

1300-1800 Special windsurfing/racing Clinic

July 17, 2008 0830-0930 Check in at VHYC

0930 Sailors meeting 

1000 First Possible Warning Signal

1000-1800 Racing

July 18, 2008 0830-0930 Check in at VHYC

0930 Sailors meeting

1000 First Warning Signal

1000-1600 Racing

1630 Awards

Separate Vineyard Cup Long Distance to benefit Sail Martha's Vineyard: 

July 19, 2008 0830-0930 Check in for separate Vineyard Cup

0930 Sailors meeting

1030 First possible Warning Signal (TBD)

6 VENUE

6.1 Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, Owen Little Way, Vineyard Haven is the host of the East Coast Junior Windsurfing Championships. 

6.2 Racing will be on Vineyard Haven Harbor or alternatively in the VH Lagoon for severe weather.

7 THE COURSES 

7.1 The courses will be described in the Sailing Instructions. 

8 SCORING

8.1 The Low-Point Scoring System, RRS Appendix A, will be used.

8.2 Competitors will have one race discarded for every four races completed.

8.3 2 races are required to constitute the Championship.

9 PRIZES Prizes will be awarded to competitors placing in respective divisions.

10 DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY

Competitors participate in the regatta entirely at their own risk. See Rule 4, Decision to Race. The event organizers, Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, its employees, volunteers, and staff will not accept any liability for damage or personal injury or death sustained in conjunction with or prior to, during, or after the regatta.

11 HOUSING 

A limited amount of housing in private homes is available to competitors in the East Coast Windsurfing Championships on a first come, first serve basis. The earlier we know you need housing the better.

12 TRAVEL TO MARTHA'S VINEYARD

This is peak season on the island of Martha's Vineyard so getting there can be a challenge, but once you're there everything will be easy. You will not need a car on the Vineyard as we can pick you up from the ferry and everything is within walking distance of Vineyard Haven Yacht Club. The best ferry service is from Woods Hole, MA to Vineyard Haven. See www.steamshipauthority.com for ferry schedules and parking information 

There are three options for air travel. Fly to Boston Logan airport and take bus from Logan airport to Woods Hole on Peter Pan/Bonanza Bus www.peterpanbus.com The bus service is easy and picks up right at the terminal and drops off right at the Woods Hole ferry. There are also flights direct to Martha's Vineyard. Third option is to fly to Providence, RI but bus/ferry service requires connections.

For groups of kids, we may be able to arrange pick up by boat from Falmouth Town Pier. 

13 FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information please contact Charlie Felder, VHYC, manager@vhyc.org, or Nevin Sayre, NSayre@aol.com

 

The East Coast Junior Windsurfing Championships concluded Friday after two days of racing and a clinic on Wednesday.

This championship was a US Sailing Junior Olympic Regatta and featured kids from all around the nation. Hosted by the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club in Martha's Vineyard. The racing saw mostly light air and the most significant breeze on Friday. The principle race officer for the event was former World Windsurfing Champion Nevin Sayre. The Wednesday clinic was put on by senior instructor trainer, Britt Viehman, from Florida.

Gold fleet enjoyed a variety of wind conditions and race courses including some slalom downwind legs.

After nine races and one throwout, in first place overall for the gold fleet was local girl Solvig Sayre. Second was Austin Emer from Clearwater Florida.

Silver fleet introduced many youngsters to racing for the first time and featured reaching starts, gybing around a single mark and then reaching back to the finish.

Overall (14 competitors):

1) Solvig Sayre (10)

2) Austin Emer (18)

3) Alex Herring (28)

U19

1) Solvig Sayre

2) Alex Herring

3) Patrick Bryan (29)

U17

1) Austin Emer

2) Kaylen Vallentyne (74)

3) Nicole Bussard (97)

U15

1) Christopher Waldo (66)

2) Marion Lepert (66)

U12

1) Rasmus Sayre (50)

2) Elie Jordi (68)

Silver fleet (11 competitors, 10 races, two throwouts):

1) Nick Watts (13 points)

2) Eli Hanschka (15)

3) Ben Nivala (18)

Photos of the event are featured here:

http://web.mac.com/sailing/Site/ECJWC.html

Respectfully submitted,

?

Bryan McDonald

Windsurfing Task Force, Chairman

http://www.ussailing.org/News/2008/w...gtaskforce.asp

Following the epic 2 for 10, we hit up Andre Paskowski (Fanatic, North Sails) for the low down on his most recent internet offering.

Q: You and Gollito have just released another awesome freestyle video on the internet. Where and when did you film this?

"I went on a trip to Egypt with Gollito 4 weeks ago. We did some photos and I filmed a little bit. After 2-3 days i realised that the footage is quite good and i decided to film more and do this clip. We spent around 10 days in Soma Bay and 6 days in Dahab."

Q: Conditions looked amazing, was it really that good?

"I been to Dahab loads of times already, so i knew it was going to be good there, but Soma Bay was something new for me. I really liked it there. Also Gollito had lots of fun. For him it was the first time ever in Egypt and i bet it wont be the last time."

Q: Do you and Gollito normally train together?

"Yes we do. We spent lots of time together in El Yaque. Besides sailing together we also work together on photo and video projects. It is always funny hanging around with Gollito."

Q: The moves in 2 for 10 shocked the freestyle world, was it hard for you to raise the bar again? 

"Well, i really enjoy filming and try to push Gollito to do different and new moves. I think we are a good team. He's such a talented sailor, so every movie we'll be able present something new!"

Q: Have you considered making a full length freestyle movie?

"I am always trying to find new projects. Me and my Partner Sebastian Dorr, who's in charge of the cutting, has already made Wet and Salty, and Flashback. But i guess the time for printed DVDs is almost over. The amount of time and money you have to invest is just not worth it. Then when you see your best friends burning your own DVD, or some DVD seller on the Beach try to sell you a Copy of Wet and Salty for 2 Euros, it's pretty frustrating. My plan is to concentrate (besides my windsurfing) on Videos for internet release. This way everybody gets to see them, and my sponsors get more exposure. The next release is planned for August, it will feature Gollito, Victor and Me in Pozo and Fuerte. It's gonna be a good one, for sure!"

Q: You seem to invent new moves all the time, do you think freestyle will continue to progress at this rate, or will it start to level off?

"I think the level will continue to rise. Maybe we will not see so many new moves, but we will see sailors doing moves faster, higher, and more consistently. All the young kids are really talented and motivated, so I'm sure we'll see impressive things in the future." 

PWA / Andrew Buchanan http://www.pwaworldtour.com/index.php?id=29

 

Windsurf Channel Crossing with Guy Cribb

British Champion windsurfer Guy Cribb (North Sails) and Antoine Albeau of France, are about to attempt to windsurf across the English Channel from Cherbourg to Poole- over 70 nautical miles (more than 130 kms) of rough seas, some of the busiest shipping lanes in the world and howling winds to raise money for the Ellen MacArthur Trust and their French counterpart A Chacun Son Cap.

The Ellen MacArthur Trust aims to support, empower and enliven children suffering from cancer, leukaemia or other serious illnesses by introducing them to the joys of sailing.

By donating to the Ellen MacArthur Trust through supporting Guy and Antoine to windsurf where no other windsurfers have tried before, you will give confidence and happiness back to children who?ve been stuck in hospitals for months or years, by enabling them to mix with other children who?ve recovered or are trying to recover from cancer, and feel the camaraderie and bravery of each other whilst sailing or possibly windsurfing.

Guy and Antoine will windsurf the channel in a storm this September- keep checking www.guycribb.com for updates in the next few weeks, and wish them luck by making a financial pledge to the Ellen MacArthur Trust children on behalf of windsurfing here-www.justgiving.com/windsurf

 

EFPT Lefkada Corona Open, end report

Anxton Otaegui wins the Corona open in Milos Beach&
today

 

The word of the day was "sick". Everyone who saw these last heats will leave the place stoked like hell.

 

But first things first.
The double on Saturday brought amazing action to Milos Beach. top riders in yellow lycras were waiting for their opponents to move forward and fight for better positions.

 

Young Swedish rider Niklas Strahlen (RRD/Simmer Style) was fighting his way through, beating Jakub Kosmowski (Tabou/Gaastra) as well as Andy "Bubble" Chambers (JP/NP) until he got stoped by Normen Günzlein (JP/NP). In the end he finished in 6th Position what is a great success. Normen met then Nikolas Akgazcyan (Starboard/Gun Sails) and as we all know the heat had to be stopped because of the dropping wind. In the end, Niko even broke his mast and had to be brought back to the beach by the rescue boat. As Niko had to leave the place at Saturday night the heat couldn't be repeated and Normen, who was leading the stopped heat, went one step further. In heat 33 he met the newcomer of this season the Belgium dude Stevan van Broeckhoven (F2). The young man was on fire and Normen had to fight hard to advance, but he knew what to do and in the end of the 5min heat G186 was in front. And as he was already on fire he was fully motivated during his heat against Andre Paskowski (Fanatic/North Sails). Another unbelievable heat was on the water. Andre and Normen, the two freestyle heroes of the team germany gave everything and as the chop was pretty high you could see "sick" jumps. All other riders and the greek spectators on the beach went crazy when both guys showed fantastic high one handed flakas almost at the same time. When the red flag went up and the heat was over Normen was once again announced as the winner of the heat and the final run against Antxon Otaegui (JP/NP) was about to begin. Both competitors on JP Boards and Neil Pryde sails in the same colour, pretty hard to say who is who… the judges had to use binoculars at the beginning to recognize the guys.

 

The almost 20 knots onshore wind brought them closer to the beach during the heat and they were fighting straight in front of the judge tower. Normen pulled a funnel Diablo, a nice switch kono and even had a kulo on his side and also other moves. Antxon showed his style in moves like switch chachoos, clef first punyeta Diablo, a "sick" ponch and esliders on both sides. In the end the riders and spectators were waiting severall minutes for the decision of the judges which had a hard time to decide between the two riders. a tough job.

 

It was Antxon Otaegui from Spain in the end who the judges had in first position. 3 of 5 judges gave their vote for him and a 3:2 decision shows once again how close it has been.

 

Right at the prize giving ceremony you could already feel how hard this night will be!!! Free corona for everyone brought the guys in the right mood and after packing their stuff most of them hit the road to go and celebrate in the famous "zeus bar"!!!
And if the party will be just half as good as the Corona Party last night, you better get in the way of the boys.

 

EFPT leaves Greece with 2 results. Next stop will be Alacati in Turkey where we also expect great conditions and as always a good time.

 

Source

PWA World Tour '07 DVD is out now

Tonix productions proudly present the story of the 2007 World Windsurfing season. Follow the best windsurfers in the world as they tour the globe's best windsurfing spots, and fight for world titles in wave, freestyle and Slalom.

 

Eyewitness life threatening mast high Cape Verde swell, set alongside slalom racing in over 40 knots of wind, and jaw dropping freestyle only meters away from the beach.

 

The golden season for the elite world tour included the historic Cabo Verde World Cup, in addition to 10 other events, 4 brand new stops, 3 disciplines, 6 world titles and 100% wind.

 

Kicking off on the Island of Sal, the year had a perfect start beyond the wildest dreams of the stars and fans alike. Powerful waves peeling down the Ponta Preta break stunned the outside world and set the tone for the season. The wave tour also took in beautiful Guincho in Portugal, wild Gran Canaria, a fresh stop in Brazil, the traditional German windfest in Sylt, and the ultimate cultural experience in Scotland.

 

Fast and furious slalom racing gripped the public in Korea, Lanzarote, Cataluña, Fuerteventura, Pozo, Turkey and Germany before the twists and turns of the Freestyle fleet whipped up a new world champion in the final seconds. Tune into all the tension and drama of the almighty 2007 PWA World Tour with this awe inspiring release.

 

To order your copy and check out the DVD trailer, navigate to the homepage and click on the PWA Tour 2007 icon in the DVD section on the left hand side of the page. DVD's will start shipping on the 3rd of June.

 

SOURCE: PWA

Michael Naumann wins first leg of the German speed championship

 

In gusty low wind conditions Michael Naumann (Loft  sail) won the first leg, which counts toward for windsurfing the championship of the German speed.

 

The wind was straight enough for top speed around 30 knots, not also bad for choppy the conditions in Drankse/in reproaches. Thorsten Mallon (F2, north) came into second before Manfred Merle.

Marina Alabau Spain leads to the top of the ISAF World Rankings

 

 

Spain rise to the top of national positions in the latest version of the ISAF World Sailing Rankings.
Directed by Marina Alabau (ESP), which holds the world # 1 spot in the Women's RS: X, Spain now has five crew Ranked among the top three in the world and across all 11 Olympic events.

 

Men's Windsurfing - RS: X

 

MIARCZYNSKI Przemyslaw (POL) stays top for the fourth consecutive men RS: X Rankings, a bronze medal in the Championship of Europe from Brest to the latest addition to his trophy cabinet. However, the world # 2 Joao Rodrigues (POR) has closed the gap on the leader, the cut-off points' difference at the top less than 50 after he was crowned champion of Europe 2008 in France.

 

Behind the first two, Julien BONTEMPS (FRA) climbs two places to # 3 after a magnificent month for the French. Since the annulment of the Medal of the race in this year's World Championship in New Zealand, BONTEMPS has found his form and follow-up to a silver medal in the performance of Europeans to win gold in Medemblik.

 

It's also been a good few weeks for the Netherlands "Dorian VAN RIJSSELBERGE. A fourth place at the Europeans was followed by second in Medemblik to lift him up three places in this ranking release # 19. His colleague and rival for windsurfing Dutch Olympic spot Casper Bouman (NED) is also growing, up five places to # 11. Other sailors in this Ranking release that make good profits after strong finishes, both in Minsk and Medemblik CARIOLOU Andreas of Cyprus, until five to # 29, and 19-year-old Elliot Carney of Great Britain, which rises from # 85 to # 56.

 

From Women's Windsurfing - RS: X

 

It has been a great month for the Women's RS: X world # 1 Marina Alabau (ESP), who retains his European title in Brest, before taking victory in Medemblik. The Spanish has maintained first place in the rankings since February 2007 and on current form (which has finished on the podium at all ISAF Graded event he has competed in this year) seems destined to be a fixture there for some time.

 

Hyeres winner Zofia KLEPACKA (POL) remains at # 2 after a fourth place at the Europeans, while Charline PICON (FRA) to # 3 and Barbara Kendall (NZL) to # 4 are also indifferent after winning the silver medals in Brest and Medemblik respectively.

 

Although PICON has the highest classification, Faustine MERRET (FRA) will represent France at the Olympic Games this August. May proved to be a good month for the reigning Olympic champion, who finished just behind PICON to win bronze at the Europeans and sailed very impressive all week in Medemblik, losing only on the podium after his illness was ruled out of the Medal of the race. MERRET gains a place in this Ranking release until # 5.

 

Also moving up Blanca MANCHON (ESP), from # 11 to # 6 and reigning World Champion Alessandra Sensini (ITA), rising two places to # 8. Athena Greek sailor Antonia FREY gains five places to # 16. Bulgaria's Irina Konstantinov-BONTEMPS also enjoys an important impetus in this Ranking release. She won eight sites until # 22 after a 16th the Europeans and seventh place in Medemblik.

The Gorge Freestyle frenzy Back

  

 

The Gorge Freestyle Frenzy americas North is the first strong winds Freestyle windsurfing competition, and this year again for the sixth consecutive year 2. It claimed to be the only contest freestyle advanced americas Northern pointed out that 48 competitors from as far away as Maui and Ontario.

 

The contest is a format of 1 day, to be held in the Spring Creek Fish Hatchery in Underwood, Washington, the first day windy enough between July 6 to 20. Wait 'epic Gorge conditions. "

 

There are many divisions for women, men, children, teachers and the showcase division, the "Super Frenzy." Although Super Frenzy calls for the latest and greatest moves, the male division is more than one format classic freestyle, where quality "ravine Sail" will win the day. Jumps high hopes and good size. Children also doubles division as the qualifier for the World Championships in ProKids Bonnaire.

 

 

PWA Lanzarote scheduled for June 23/28th

The Spanish town of Costa Teguise, on the Canary island of Lanzarote, will welcome the PWA to their coasts for the second encounter of the men's freestyle, and the first clash in women's freestyle discipline.

 

The dates have been confirmed, and the action will take place between 23 and June 28. Expect to see all the big names of men and women freestyle pull down anything in the light breezes, a 40 knot trade winds and mast high surf. If last year is anything to go, this case will go off.

 

Tune in pwaworldtour.com to keep up with all the action of this epic freestyle, including impressive photo and video galleries, interviews with sailors, and daily summaries of the contest.

 

Application forms are available at the PWA office, or if you have any questions regarding this event, e-mail info@pwaworldtour.com.

10.000 athletes to compete in the Asian Beach Games '08

Indonesia will make history from the 18th to October 26, 2008, when it hosts the first games of beach Asia in the world. Bali will become the venue of this international event which will see 45 countries participating with more than 10000 athletes, officials, media and all volunteers who come to the Island of the Gods for this world-class event.

 

At a press conference held in Puri Santrian Hotel in Sanur, President of The National Olympic Committee of Indonesia (Koni), Ibu Rita Subowo officially announced and informed the press about the ongoing preparations for the 2008 Asia Games beach, marks the largest event ever hosted in Bali.

 

"Through the Beach Games Asia 2008, Bali will become the focal point of Sporting Tourism in Asia. In addition to strengthen Bali as one of the known tourist destinations in the world, but also the independence of Indonesia as a of the major sporting nations in Asia. "He said the Governor of Bali, Dewa Made Beratha BPK.

 

IBU Rita Subowo added: "It's a great honor for Indonesia to be selected to host this historic sporting event. Bali is the perfect place for the Games of Asia and beach as this event is the first of its kind in the world, Indonesia is ready to show the world our true hospitality by welcoming all athletes, officials and everyone involved in our great country to witness the spirit of the Beach Games Asia 2008. We are confident that all people attending were impressed and hope to leave a lasting impression in the minds of everyone. "

 

More than 50000 people are expected to support the countries participating in 13 sports will compete for the first time this case commissioned by the Olympic Council of Asia. The areas of Kuta, Sanur, Serangan Pulau, Tanjung Benoa Jimbaran and have been selected to serve as the headquarters of each sport. Beach Volley Ball, surfing, jet skiing, sailing, windsurfing, Takraw Beach, Beach Hand Ball, beach football, Para Gliding, Dragon Boat Racing Triathlon, Marathon Swimming, and the new sports are wooden ball sports that will be competed on.

 

The Beach Games in Asia is a multi-sport event held every two years among athletes representing countries in Asia. The games celebrate cooperation and unity despite differences where athletes from a wide variety of nations are able to travel, meet new people, and bring back memories for the rest of the world to their nations of origin. The Beach Games in Asia forge unity and friendship among its member nations to join the athletes, coaches and officials together.

 

Many beach international sporting events are organised each year in Bali. But games such as beach games in Asia, requires a specific plan with the participation of concentrated efforts governmental and non-governmental sectors for its success. To address these diversified activities, in Asia Bali Beach Games Organizing Committee (BABGOC) was formed in March 2006.

 

BABGOC, under the sponsorship of Koni and the city of Bali, in close cooperation with the Government of Indonesia, is working diligently to meet the schedules and expectations of preparation stage and sustainably exploit Beach Games in Asia, leading to a long-term legacy.

 

"We also hope to raise awareness of youth in Indonesia and sports enthusiasts and those across Asia through improving the quality of life, instill pride and achievement of international prestige and recognition through sports beach. " Said Ibu Rita Subowo, chairman of Koni.

UK's Techno fleet tested in Rutland Water

Rutland Water, Part 2 of the UKWA Inland Series and an RYA selection event for those wishing to apply for the 2008/2009 Bic Techno National Junior Squad and also part of the selection process for the team who will represent Team GBR at the Techno World Championships in Sopot, Poland in August.  National Squad coach Oli Woodcock, together with Ian Roberts and Isy Hutchinson were in attendance on behalf of the RYA.

 

The Techno Fleet which is ever growing was represented by 53 Techno sailors on the main course comprising of both 6.8 and 7.8 fleets.  We were treated to some very close, entertaining and at times surprising racing.  It is also good to see the new Bic One Design sail in attendance, mixing it with the Tushingham TK's.

 

Saturday started with Matt Brown taking the lead in the first race, but Sam Sills, reigning 6.8 World Champion, was hot on his heels and took over the lead at the end of the last upwind leg, leading to the finish.  George Bowles was not far behind taking 3rd position, with Kieran Martin coming in 4th and 1st 6.8.  The first 7.8 girl in that race was Nicola Granger followed by Becky Plummer and Chloe Bennett.  The 6.8 girls were led by Imogen Sills.

 

In race 2 the wind had dropped slightly with the leaders still being Sam, Matt and George, but a slight change in the 7.8 girls fleet with Becky Plummer earning herself a fine 5th place (1st girl),  Joanna Evans 6th and Nicola 7th, with Stuart Hards taking 4th overall and 1st 6.8.  The South West 6.8 girls again showed their talent, with Laurel 1st, Imogen 2nd and Noelle Finch 3rd.

 

After lunch race 3 began, and the wind had lifted slightly, Josh Leadbetter stormed through the fleet and followed Sam over the line to gain a 2nd place.

 

Race 4 on Saturday was the NCH Marathon, which is a sponsored event and means that the competitors sail a marked course around the perimeter of the lake, around 11 to 14 miles I believe.  Unfortunately, the wind had dropped, but it didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the Techno fleet.  The start was led by Nicola Granger who was overtaken by Sam Sills who was 1st Techno at the first tower with Matt Brown and George Bowles in 2nd and 3rd place keeping these positions till the end.  Kieran Martin was the 1st 6.8 boy.

 

Sunday dawned bright and sunny, with the hope of another 4 races to complete the weekend, we were not disappointed.  In the first race of the day Charlie Money scooped himself a superb 3rd place behind Sam Sills and Matt Brown, with George Bowles 4th and Sam Conroy in 5th.

 

Race 4 on Sunday was the most surprising of the weekend with a massive wind shift occurring as the leaders were approaching the upwind mark, this caused the leaders to suddenly be put back by around 18 places with a lot of work to do to recover their positions.

 

Final results:
7.8 Boys – 1st Sam Sills, 2nd Matt Brown, 3rd George Bowles.
7.8 Girls – 1st Becky Plummer, 2nd Nicola Granger, 3rd Chloe Bennett.
6.8 Boys – 1st Kieran Martin, 2nd Stuart Hards, 3rd Jack Plummer
6.8 Girls – 1st Imogen Sills, 2nd Laurel Townsend, 3rd Saskia Sills

 

Many thanks to Sue and Bob and family, and to all who helped and volunteered to make this a successful event.

 

 

 

SOURCE: UKWA

Julien Bontemps wins the Delta Lloyd Regatta

 some lost. According to many Olympians, this year's Delta Lloyd Regatta has been a good training for Beijing with an interesting end.

 

"Today was a different competition", said overall winner Julien Bontemps (FRA). "It is interesting to finish the series like this. I had a good start with Dorian. Of course I was covering him, but my upwind speed was bad and he was in front of me."

 

The two Dutchmen Dorian van Rijsselberge and Casper Bouman, both coached by McIntosh (NZL), like the heavy weather conditions and were flying. Going into the Medal Race, Bouman was in ninth position. He needed to finish top six in order to qualify for Beijing. He took the bullet, but missed the sixth position by just one point. He has one more chance in Kiel. If he fails, Van Rijsselberge will go.

 

Despite the fact he has a full nomination of NOC*NSF, he lost the national selection to Bouman, who still needs to complete his nomination. Today, Van Rijsselberge sailed in second position as he saw Bouman making a small mistake at the bottom mark:

 

"I was eager to catch him and wanted to make a smooth gibe, but I accidentally hooked into my harness and made a catapult." Bontemps passed him and secured his overall victory, followed by Van Rijsselberge and Tom Ashly from New Zealand.

 

Marina Alabau (ESP) did not take any risks in the women fleet: "I already had a big lead, so I took it easy. It was heavy going downwind in these choppy conditions. I did not have much control." But the Spanish European Champion finished third and won the regatta, followed by Barbara Kendall (NZL) and Blanca Manchon (ESP), who took the final bullet.

 

 RESULTS

 

 1 FRA Julien Bontemps
 2 NED Dorian van Rijsselberge
 3 NZL Tom Ashley
 4 SUI Richard Stauffacher
 5 HKG King Yin Chan
 6 HUN Aron Gádorfalvi
 7 NED Casper Bouman
 8 FRA Etienne Saiz
 9 ARG Mariano Reutemann
 10 FRA Henry Quentin
 11 CYP Andreas Cariolou
 12 KOR Taehoon Lee
 13 TUR Ertugrul Icingir
 14 HKG Chi Ho Ho
 15 FRA Martin Gaveriaux
 16 GBR Elliot Carney
 17 USA Ben Barger
 18 CAN Zachary Plavsic
 19 HKG Kwok Fai Cheng
 20 KOR Hyungkwon Kim
 21 DEN Jonas Kaeldso
 22 FRA Gauthier Lefevre
 23 RUS Konstantin Peredkov
 24 FRA Alexandre Guyader
 25 GER Christian Freimueller
 26 GBR Richard Hamilton
 27 FRA Pierre Noesmoen
 28 FRA Pierre Loquet
 29 GER Florian Freimueller
 30 FRA Rémi Ledoux
 31 BEL Arne Herpoele
 32 GER Oliver-tom Schliemann
 33 SVK Patrik Pollak
 34 RUS Alexey Tokarev
 35 GER Leon Delle
 36 VEN Daniel Flores
 37 NZL Antonio Cozzolino
 38 FRA Vivien Habert
 39 COL Nicolas Lozano
 40 GRE Stefanos Leonetti
 41 NZL Joshua Nixon

 

SOURCE: RS:X Class

KPWT Tours heads to Paros in Greece

Paros, one the beautiful Cyclades Islands in Greece, will be the theater of the Paros Kiteboard World cup, scheduled in July, 19th to 25th This exciting event is the result of a co-organization agreement between the Paros Kite Pro Center, major actor of the sport in Greece and the KPWT, international circuit of the world cup of kiteboarding since 1999.

 

This is also the opportunity for the KPWT to come back in Paros, where the team held a stage of the 2001 and 2006 circuit. Located in Pounda at Paros Kite Pro Center, which offers top riding conditions, the event will gather the top pro international kiteboarders's competition board to be further announced - for 6 days of relentless competition with a 30,000 prize money at stake, and points for the freestyle, course racing world title. A Kiteloop super session, Hang Time World record !!

 

Needless to say, Paros being one of the most attractive european location for summer holidays and KITEBOARDING, the event is sure to attract crowds who will attend the competition show and enjoy with the athletes the various enterntainement activities that will be organized in this leisure and pleasure place.

 

RIDERS

 

MEN
Sander Lenten (HOL) Abel Lago (SP) Erik Volpe (ITA)
Mitu Monteiro (Cabo Verde) Victor Borsuk (POL)
Antoine Auriol (FR) Giusseppe Esposito (ITA)

 

WOMEN
Ainhoa Garcia (SP) Kristin Boese (GER) Marine Sudre (AUS)
Hélène Barrière (FR) and many other riders

 

 

 

DISCIPLINES

 

Freestyle
The winner will gain points, taken into account
in the world overall ranking
€18 000

 

Course Racing
A speed race from one point to another
€8 500

 

Best Kite Loop
Riders will loop the kite while in the air on way up or at the highest point

 

If there is time, there will be Hang Time (KPWT World Record 10"08) and Best Tricks for fun.

 

SOURCE: KPWT

World Cup Ulsan ends

Expectations were active aerial as antagonism entered its final day in Korea, and all hopes of accepting a aftereffect from the aboriginal leg of the slalom bout above bottomward to the day that lay ahead.

 

Temperatures soared in the calm morning conditions, architecture hopes of a thermal sea breeze bringing the appropriate wind to JinHa beach. By aboriginal afternoon, altitude had started to develop, adopting hopes of accepting the 7-knot minimum to acquiesce antagonism to go ahead.

 

At 3.45pm, with the wind still too ablaze for official competition, the chase board acclimatized aloft acclimation a fun chase for both the men's and women's fleets. The after race, alignment both men and women together, started with a accumulation bank alpha afore the absolute agile hit the baptize for a lap of the slalom course. The bank swelled with athrill bounded fans, as they animated their hero's about the course.

 

The chase accepted to be a appropriate action of wits, demography abode in arduous 4-7 bond winds. Ultimately, Julien Quentel (Starboard, NeilPryde) and Lee Korzitz were adored for their efforts, claiming aboriginal abode in the men's and women's fleets respectively.

 

The chase committee's connected attempts to get antagonism underway were bedfast by airy apprehension which, although able abundant at times, eventually accepted too inconsistent and at 6.00pm antagonism was assuredly alleged off for the day and the event.

 

The 2008 Ulsan PWA Apple Cup assured after any auspiciously completed heats, admitting abundant attempted efforts, and after official after-effects in both the men's and women's fleets.

 

Despite the week's challenge actuality bedeviled by teasing, bordering conditions, this accident will be remembered for the balmy and active atmosphere created by the hosts, and the aberrant alignment witnessed throughout the event. This stop of the slalom bout actual acutely charcoal badly accepted with competitors from all over the world.

 

There was a behemothic bulk of accomplishment put in by the bounded hosts, from the abundant aperture commemoration in the Lotte Hotel, to the active closing commemoration on the bank of admirable Jinha Beach, area the winners of the final day's fun chase were awarded their apparatus beneath a technicolor accomplishments of fireworks and bedrock 'n' roll. This accident will alive continued in the anamnesis of all who accept taken part, and accomplished the admirable and assorted Korean culture.

 

The PWA would like to accurate astronomic acknowledgment to the Ulsan Broadcasting Corporation and all the sponsors of this event. We attending advanced to abiding in 2009 and for abounding seasons to come.

PKRA kitesurfers head to Cabarete

Cabarete is thrilled to be hosting what is sure to be another spectacular kiteboarding event. Our event will be the fourth of ten stops on the PKRA (Professional Kiteboard Riders Association) 2008 World Tour.

 

Cabarete is known for hosting the most spectacular kiteboarding events. Unbelievable conditions ensure the best in the world will be here to show their stuff. You'll see the highest air and the latest tricks while competitors vie for $40,000 US dollars in prize money .

 

As anyone who has been to Cabarete knows, this place is what fun in the sun and kiteboarding dreams are made of. And it doesn't stop when the sun goes down... The event's nightly parties promise to be hotter than ever. See you in Cabarete!

 

Pre-Qualified Riders:

 

Men:

 

Aaron Hadlow
Kevin Langeree
Cesar Portas
Youri Zoon
Alvaro Onieva
Alex Pastor
Marc Jacobs
Reno Romeu
Michael Schitzhofer
Tom Court
Rocky Chatwell
Madison Van Heurck

 

Women:

 

Bruna Kajiya
Gisela Pulido
Angela Peral
Susi Mai
Karolina Winkowska
Audrey Meyer

 

 

 

SOURCE: Cabarete Events

Historic win for Joao Rodrigues in RS:X Euro

For the first time in 11 years João RODRIGUES (POR) has stepped onto the top step of the podium at an Olympic windsurfing class European Championship. He did so in 1996 and 1997 following up his World Championship gold medal in Port Elizabeth in 1995.

 

By winning in Brest, he has clearly laid his marker down as a serious contender for the forthcoming Olympic Sailing Competition in China.

 

Julien BONTEMPS (FRA) finished second overall with world #1 Przemyslaw MIARCZYNSKI (POL) in third.

Overall the championship was very well organized by Les Crocodiles de L'Elorn - the only club in France with two Olympic gold medallists among its alumni. With an entirely carpeted competitors' village, a giant screen showing streamed video from the water and an army of ever smiling and helpful volunteers, Franch JAOUEN, the president of the club, has set a standard that other organizers will have a hard time topping.

 

In the women's fleet, Marina ALABAU (ESP) won the European Championship by a resounding five points; conclusive evidence that she is fast in the light and in the medium winds. Watch out in Qingdao, she is hot.

 

Back in second place Charline PICON (FRA) demonstrated she is a worthy understudy to third placed Faustine MERRET (FRA). She may not be so self assured in front of the press pack but she certainly can race. Zofia KLEPACKA (POL) made up the top four who were head and shoulders above the rest. Best of the rest was another French women, Pauline PERRIN (FRA), 17 points off the back of the front pack.

 

The only non European woman to make it into the top 10 was Barbara KENDALL (NZL), who finished sixth but seemed to lack a bit of sparkle in her racing this week. Admittedly, having taken silver on her home waters at the RS:X World Championship in New Zealand last January, the Europeans were just another marker on the road to Quingdao. Next stop…. The Delta Lloyd Regatta, Medemblik, Netherlands, which starts on 21 May.

 

SOURCE: ISAF

Jose 'Gollito' wins 2008 Podersdorf Austria

Entering day six of competition, the majority of the distinct abolishment had already been completed, abrogation alone 6 heats to be run in adjustment to acknowledge an official accident winner. Following the skippers meeting, the aftermost of annular three's heats got underway in a abiding force 4 breeze.

Andre Paskowski (Fanatic, North Sails) put up a arch activity adjoin his rival, Frenchman Nicolas Akgazciyan (Starboard, Gun Sails) but bootless to accommodate an acknowledgment to Nicolas's bland repertoirethat , including a cool tech voquech diablo, acceding Nicolas access into the division finals.

The aboriginal division final pitched Tonky Frans (F2, Gaastra) adjoin aggregation mate, Kiri Thode (Starboard, Gaastra) and Taty Frans (Starboard, North Sails) adjoin his aggregation mate, Gollito Estredo (Fanatic, North Sails). The abiding breeze accustomed the riders to bandy bottomward their abounding armory of moves. Kiri unleashed his signature kono, but bootless to booty bottomward an on anatomy Tonky Frans, who was killing all his moves.

Gollito took no prisoners as he assured Taty Frans's attack with a run including no handed flakas and a burner.

The additional division final saw the avenue of Ricardo Campello (JP, NeilPryde) to abiding acquaintance Spaniard Antxon Otaegui (JP, NeilPryde), and accepted apple champion, Marcilio `Brawzinho' Browne (Mistral, Gaastra) defeat Nicolas Akgazciyan to beforehand them into the semi final.

The semi final got off to a all-a-quiver alpha afterwards it was annulled aural the aboriginal minute and re-run four hours later, alone to be annulled again. For two hours, the absolute basin glassed off, authoritative abounding accept the accident would run out of time afore the final two heats could be completed. Following a windless two hours, a band of aphotic clouds emerged on the far ancillary of the lake, and a band of wind started to move appear the antagonism area. The riders accolade to the baptize and account after the semi final started in a airy 17 bond breeze.

Tonky Frans challenged Gollito in the top bisected of the draw and Antxon Otaegui battled it out with Brawzinho in the basal half. Highlights of the calefaction included Gollito's now barter mark no handed flaka and Brawzinho's huge ponch in advanced of the anticipation area. Underdogs Antxon and Tonky gave all they had, sliding into approved attitude chachos and flaka 720's respectively, but bootless to bout the calibre of Brawzinho and Gollito.

Aftert a quick breach to aggregate the semi final results, the final got activity in testing conditions. Gollito and Brawzinho went arch to arch in the winners final and Antxon and Tonky duelled in the losers final. Brawzinho ashen no time, laying bottomward a mix of about-face attitude chachos, one handed bobs and a massive anchorage tack ponch. His rival, Gollito, replied with an arrangement of ponch combinations, added no handed flakas and starboard tack burner.

On the added ancillary of the heat, Tonky threw bottomward an advancing arrangement or Culos, flaka 720s and about-face attitude chachos. Antxon struggled to get to grips with the heat, abolition abounding moves that he was consistently authoritative beforehand in competition.

Following ten account of ballsy bathe the horn blew, catastrophe the heat, and blame the end of the aboriginal stop on the bathe tour. The army rushed to the capital accident date to apprehend the final after-effects announced. Aboriginal abode went to Gollito, additional to Brawzinho, third to Tonky and alternating to Antxon. We bent up with Gollito and Brawzinho:

Gollito "Really, absolutely happy! My final was absolutely good, I competed with Brawzinho. It was absolutely concrete with the ablaze wind, but I got my best moves in, I'm aloof absolutely happy!"

Brawzinho " I'm appealing happy, I've been training a lot for after-effects in these aftermost few months, so I was appealing afraid about how this accident would go, abnormally back it comes bottomward to ablaze apprehension and algid conditions, but I'm appealing stoked!"

That assured the day's activity and the 2008 PWA cream apple cup in Podersdorf. The PWA's abutting stop is in Korea for the aboriginal leg of the slalom 42 alternation starting on the 12th of May.

Jesse Richman shines at KPWT Vendee Pro

 

On this last day of competition everybody on the beach has the same word coming to their mind : GREAT ! FABULOUS ! Ideal conditions at the begining ! Can't wait to be next year !!!

The 2008 Vendee Kitesurf Pro will definitely stay in everybody's memory:

 

About 50 competitors coming from all around the world

More than 20 nationalities (Australia, France, Republic Dominican, US, Norway,)

4 disciplines run in 6 days (Freestyle, Wave, Course Racing, Best trick)

Numerous trophies

An extraordinary show

 

The most famous stars of Kitesurfing made the journey to Saint-Gilles Croix de Vie and guaranteed the show on the water. At the beginning of this season, a phenomena stands out: new talents arrive on the Kiteboard Pro World Tour and shake the top of the ranking.

 

The American Hawa, Jesse Richman, is astonishing : just 15 and already winner of one event of the KPWT !

Let's also congratulate the excellent performance of Mitu Monteiro from Cabo Verde !

 

A special thank you to the guys from Cabarete - A great spirit and what a talent!

 

On the women side, Kirsty Jones from UK really surprised everybody in the Waves.

And Ania Grzelinska from Poland also stands out all through the competition.

Looking at the results of this first event we can expect and imagine an exciting season 2008 on the KPWT!

Keep in touch and see you on the next round in Greece, Paros, from the 19th to the 25th of June.

 

VENDEE KITESURF PRO 2008 RESULTS

 

FREESTYLE MEN

1. Ariel CORNIEL (REP DOM) EH

2. Jesse RICHMAN (US) CABRINHA

3. Antoine AURIOL (FR) KITELOOSE

WAVE MASTERS MEN

1. Abel LAGO (SPA) RRD

2. Mitu MONTEIRO (Cabo Verde) F-ONE

3. Jan Marcos RIVIERAS (REP DOM)

COURSE RACING MEN

1. Jesse RICHMAN (US) CABRINHA

2. Soufiane HAMAINI (MOR) NORTH KITEBOARDING

3. Abel LAGO (SPA) RRD

FREESTYLE WOMEN

1. Ania GRZELINSKA (POL) NORTH KITEBOARDING

2. Ainhoa GARCIA (SPA) AIRUSH

3. Marine SUDRE (AUSTR) CABRINHA

WAVE MASTERS WOMEN

1. Kirsty JONES (UK) FLEXIFOIL

2. Ania GRZELINSKA (POL) NORTH KITEBOARDING

3. Ainhoa GARCIA (SPA)AIRUSH

COURSE RACING WOMEN

1. Kari SCHIBEVAAG (NOR) OZONE

2. Helen THOMPSON (UK) NORTH KITEBOARDING

3. Ainhoa GARCIA (SPA) AIRUSH

OVERALL RANKING MEN

1. Jesse RICHMAN (US) CABRINHA

2. Abel LAGO (SPA) RRD

3. Antoine AURIOL (FRA) KITELOOSE

OVERALL RANKING WOMEN

1. Ania GRZELINSKA (POL) NORTH KITEBOARDING

2. Ainhoa  GARCIA (SPA) AIRUSH

3. Kari SCHIBEVAAG (NOR) OZONE

FREESTYLE MEN JUNIOR

1. Ariel CORNIEL (REP DOM) EH

2. Jesse RICHMAN (US) CABRINHA

3. Erik VOLPE (ITA) CHALLENGERS

 

 

BEST TRICK RESULTS

 

MEN

1.Thomas PARIS (FR) North Kites

2. Emmanuel RONDON (RD) EH Kiteboarding

3. Leander VYVEY (BEL) JN-Kites

WOMEN

1.Cne COLLAUD (SWI) Slingshot

2.Carina Eibl (AUSTRIA) Slingshot

3.Marine SUDRE (AUS) Cabrinha

 

 

SOURCE: KPWT

Gollito Estredo, winner of the PWA Worldcup Podersdorf

It was a day of waiting. Nobody really thought that there is a chance for proper wind. BUT suddenly a rain front came and delivered half an hour of wind. Enough for the missing heats. But the wind was over almost as soon as it started. Right after the heats the winners were announced on the stage.

1. Gollito Estredo
2. Marcilio Browne
3. Tonky Frans
4. Antxon Otaegui

'The Windsurfing Movie' to be shown in London

National Windsurfing Week are appreciative to advertise the aboriginal UK Premiere in a British cinema of The Windsurfing Movie.

 

"The Windsurfing Movie" at The Prince Charles Cinema abreast Leicester Square in London, on the black of Tuesday 29th April. This will be the first, and apparently only, befalling to see what abounding feel to be the best blur anytime fabricated about windsurfing on a big screen.

 

Tickets for the assuming are £10 each, and can be appointed in beforehand by calling the box appointment on 0870 811 2559, or purchased on the aperture accountable to availability.

 

All profits will be donated to the RNLI.

 

Doors accessible at 6.00pm with the blur actuality credible at 6.45pm

 

The Windsurfing Movie is assertive to be windsurfing's defining film. Directed by accolade acceptable cinematographer Johnny DeCesare of Poor Boyz Productions and featuring the best riders in windsurfing history—The Windsurfing Movie conveys the adorableness of Windsurfing in ablaze 16mm film.

 

How does an 11-year-old kid from a baby landlocked boondocks in Oregon become admired as the best freesailor in the world? The Windsurfing Movie activity follows Red Bull amateur Levi Siver in his decade continued advance to the top of windsurfing. Using never afore credible footage from Levi's childhood, The Windsurfing Movie will bang a bond with anyone who has anytime dared to dream—and watched that dream about-face into article more.

 

What will bodies bethink about Levi Siver's windsurfing career? Contest results, a Apple Title—we don't know. Siver likens himself to a artist whose music withstands the analysis of time. Every beachcomber credible in The Windsurfing Movie is a adventitious for Levi to appearance what windsurfing can be!

 

Jason Polakow's resume includes acceptable aback to aback Wavesailing Apple Titles in 1997-98. But those achievements are overshadowed by the access of Polakow's appearance on the action itself. Polakow revolutionized the windsurfing apple with powerful, tweaked aerials and is amenable for the actualization of the pin appendage as the appearance of best for windsurfing boards. But one moment can change everything—and no one knows that bigger than Polakow. After a abominable motocross crash, doctors said Polakow may never airing after a limp, let abandoned windsurf again. A year after Polakow won in the finals of the PWA Hawaii Pro adjoin Apple Champion

 

The Windsurfing Movie< activity is a adventitious for Polakow to analysis the boundaries of wavesailing. Polakow's sites are set on windsurfing the best able after-effects in the apple and Poor Boyz Windsurfing will be there to abduction the images.

 

At 12 year's old, Kai Lenny is windsurfing's beneficiary apparent. Not back the again 13 year-old Robby Naish won his aboriginal appellation has there been a added heralded adolescent windsurfer. The affiliation amid Lenny and his idol Robby Naish is undeniable—with identical accessory and absolute talent.

 

Lenny afraid assemblage at this year's Aloha Classic as he rode behemothic after-effects with a aplomb able-bodied above his years. Kai's accustomed adeptness is guided by a admiring ancestors and molded by the sailors he's developed up with. His appetence for windsurfing is catching and scenes from The Windsurfing Movie will draw kids to the sport.

 

Any acceptable windsurfing adventure charge accommodate Robby Naish. During the common bang of windsurfing in the 1980's, Naish was absolutely dominant. His account of achievements includes 24 apple championships and rivals any ability in sports history.

 

Naish's windsurfing career started in his, and the sports adolescence—his aboriginal titles happened in a time back windsurfing booms were fabricated of wood! Back asked to accompany The Windsurfing Movie project, Naish had one capital condition—that the blur isn't a attendant "Robby Naish Story." Robby capital an befalling to windsurf in the best locations and captain with his friends. After lugging accessory about the apple for two decades, area does Naish appetite to go? Mauritius, Cape Verde, Japan, and Tahiti to name a few…

BKSA Freestyle heads to Watergate Bay

This weekend 18th-20th April sees round 1 of the BKSA Freestyle championships come to Watergate Bay in Cornwall.

 

50 competitors are expected to compete in classes Pro Men , Pro Ladies , Amateur Men and Ladies , Juniors and Seniors

 

Watergate has a long history of holding kitesurf events and the BKSA are proud to come back here with the challenging conditions that happen here.

 

Come and see the action every day ( wind dependant ) from 10.30 - 3 pm.

 

 

 

SOURCE: BKSA

Fuerteventura World Cup ready to go

We are happy to announce the organization of the 2008 Fuerteventura Speed:World:Cup.

 

The windsurf event (25.07-02.08) will be held as one-off world championship, the kitesurf event (18.07-23.07) as part of the world tour, counting towards the world championship.

 

The registration forms can be downloaded here:
http://www.speedworldcup.com/events-2008.html

PKRA '08 heads to Leucate in France

The next stop of the PKRA Kiteboarding World Tour will be the city of Leucate, located in the southwestern coast of France.

 

From April 12 to 18th, more than 50 world-class kiteboarding athletes from all over the world will be competing at the renowned Mondial du Vent, the most prestigious kiteboarding event in Europe. This is the first time that the PKRA World Tour competition will be held in France and the addition of Mondial du Vent to the ever expanding realm of the PKRA solidifies the Tour's credibility as having the best kiteboarding events in the world.

 

More than 160,000 people are expected to grace the event with a full week of fun-filled and exciting kiteboarding and windsurfing actions.

 

The best kiteboarders in North and South America, Europe, Australia and other parts of the world will be battling it out for a chance at the €45,000 purse and will be competing in three disciplines - Freestyle, Course Racing and Long Distance.

 

Freestyle is an exciting kiteboarding discipline where riders are rated by a full panel of international judges based on technical difficulties and hard core style. Course Racing brings the best kiteboard racers in the world challenging each other in a series of racing events on a preconfigured course.

 

In the Long Distance event, riders start in a pack and race to the finish line in a format of 20 kms.

 

Reigning Freestyle World Champion Aaron Hadlow (United Kingdom) and last year's runner-up Kevin Langeree (Netherlands) are once again expected to give an all-out performance for a shot at this year's world championship title.

 

Also among the roster of world-class professional kiteboarders competing at the second PKRA tour stop this year will be Alvaro Onieva and Cesar Portas who both hail from Spain, Rui Meira (Portugal), France's own Etienne Lhote, Sebastien Garat and Florian Daubos.

 

Current long distance world champion Bruno Sroka, Kitespeed world record holder and French kitespeed record holder Alexandre Caizergues, as well as Fabienne D'Ortoli and Sjouke Bredenkamp will be competing for the Course Racing and Long Distance events.

 

PKRA World Champion Gisela Pulido (Spain), Jalou Langeree (Netherlands) and Bruna Kajiya (Brazil) are also expected to compete in the women's freestyle event.

 

The Mondial du Vent 2008 is organized by the Office de Tourisme de Leucate in partnership with the Professional Kiteboard Riders Association.

 

SOURCE: Extreme Elements

Surfers block Russian oil tranfer

Good news and a campaign victory from Scotland! Following pressure from several environmental groups, including SAS, Forth Ports have made the decision not to allow Russian tankers to transfer oil in the Firth of Forth.

 

The decision came only a few weeks after Shipping Minister Jim Fitzpatrick told the House of Commons that the Government would be bringing forward a consultation on regulating ship-to-ship transfers of hazardous substances in UK waters – a move welcomed by SAS.

 

Because of its twin role as plc and harbour authority, SAS believed it entirely inappropriate that Forth Ports had been both promoter and regulator of SPT Marine's scheme to transfer up to 7.8 million tonnes of Russian oil into ultra large crude carriers en route to the United States and the Far East. They were also set to benefit financially from the contract.

 

The Russian export blend crude oil had been described as very dense, thick oil, making it particularly persistent in the event of a spillage and a big threat to the Firth of Forth.

 

A Scottish Green Party investigation had previously found SPT were responsible for spilling around 35,000 gallons of oil in the Gulf of Mexico - but failed to disclose the information when providing official evidence to the Scottish Parliament. In written evidence to the parliament the company, SPT Marine, claimed an "excellent" record on ship-to-ship oil transfers by only referring to incidents dated after the shocking oil spill in 1995.

 

SAS campaigners were involved in several actions against the proposal and were on hand to present a petition to Forth Ports at their agm last year calling for them to say 'NO' to the proposal. We also made a 'Star Wars' inspired campaign film called Forth Wars that was watched by hundreds of people including some of Forth Ports shareholders!

 

The Firth of Forth is an exceptional marine environment and is highly valued by its many recreational water users, many of which use the water all year round and all of whom will delight in this decision!

 

May the Forth be with you always!

 

SOURCE: SAS

MauiSails completes team with Dan Ellis

The MauiSails team is now complete and ready for action with the recent signing of Dan Ellis from the UK. Dan has been part of the strong UK contingent for the past few racing season's, winning the Asian Windsurfing tour, and finishing strongly in the PWA Racing events.

 

Dan is now spending the majority of his time on Maui during the off season and will be assisting with testing, and will be able to join in the Team's vigorous training sessions on Maui.

 

Dan had this to say about joining Maui Sails: "I'm really excited to join the MauiSails Team. At the end of last season I packed up all my belongings in England and moved to Maui so I could train and be in the best possible environment for success.

 

At today's PWA events you need the best possible equipment to make it to the top, and MauiSails provides that. The chance for me to work alongside Barry Spanier and Phil McGain, two of the best race technicians in the sport is what excites me the most.

 

They have been making world beating sails for longer than I've windsurfed and I'm looking forward to joining them at the beach, testing and making a contribution to the development".

 

Dan's first event on MauiSails will be the DEFI wind long distance race in France, then after that he'll be off to Korea for the PWA racing event.

 

SOURCE: Maui

Albeau's 49.09 knots ratified by WSSRC

The World Sailing Speed Record Council has ratified the Outright World Speed Record of 49.09 knots set by Antoine ALBEAU of France.

 

Antoine ALBEAU (FRA) set the new outright world speed record mark on the purpose built canal in Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, France.

 

The Record

 

Record: Outright World Speed Record
Venue: Les Saintes Maries de la Mer. France
Name: Antoine ALBEAU (FRA)
Equipment: Custom Starboard. 4.8 Neil Pryde
Date: 5 March 2008
Course length: 500 metres
Current: Nil
Start time: 12:12:36.53
Finish time: 12:12:56.33
Elapsed time: 19.80 seconds
Speed: 49.09 knots

 

Previous Record

 

Record: Outright World Speed Record
Venue: Les Saintes Maries de la Mer. France
Name: Finian MAYNARD (IVB)
Date: April 2005
Course length: 500 metres
Speed: 48.70 knots

 

SOURCE: ISAF

Caizergues and Consorti claim Speed World Cup

he aboriginal Speed:World:Cup of the 2008 division in Port St. Louis, France, concluded with the achievement of the arresting apple champions Alexandre Caizergues and Charlotte Consorti, both from France. An amazing alpha into the new season, with altitude from ablaze apprehension up to blow force, and some absorbing top speeds.

 

For the fourth time in a row, Port St. Louis accepted to be a absolute antagonism venue. Even back the altitude accept been ablaze in the aftermost year, this time PSL showed afresh the abounding abeyant of Plage Napoleon, one of the fastest accustomed speedsailing spots in the world.

 

After three canicule after wind during the accomplishment trials, the capital accident started on 01.04.2008 with a absolute of 39 riders from 6 nations. All eyes were set on the ascendant wolrd champions from France, Alexandre Caizergue and Charlotte Consorti, as able-bodied as on absolute speedsailing almanac holder Sjoukje Bredenkamp from South Africa.

 

The accident kicked off at 11:00 hours in about 30 knots wind and collapsed water. The aboriginal speeds of about 37 knots showed that there is abeyant for more. The accepted belvedere aspirants struggeled a little bit and the way was chargeless for Rolf can der Vlugt (NED) to snatch the victory. In the ladies fleet, antagonism was actual abutting as accepted amid Charlotte Consorti and Sjoukje Bredenkamp.

 

The additional leg was started in 25-30 knots of wind, with the bigger end this time for Alexandre Caizergues advanced of Rolf van der Vlugt. Same account in the ladies fleet, Charlotte holds bottomward Sjoukje.

 

On day two, chase administrator Marc Blanc activated the abilities of the riders in a appropriate way, sending them out for three legs. Alex Caizergues was the man of the day with three bullets in altitude of 30-40 knots of wind and a hardly bigger angle. Charlotte took two out of three victories, but all the contest in the ladies agile are actual abutting amid her and Sjoukje, and afresh Katja Roose (NED) acutely in third. In total, eight women took allotment in this aboriginal worldcup of the season, addition almanac to exhausted now.

 

With bristles circuit in their legs, the riders were already tired, but there was added to come. The anticipation alone alleged for 25 knots, but the accepted mistral wind arrangement fabricated anybody apprehend more.

 

Day three started with - about no wind. But this afflicted bound back the beach on Plage Napoleon started to fly at about 11:00 hours, and it should become a absolute ballsy day. After the acquaintance from the aboriginal Port St. Louis worldcup in 2005, back the mistral hit the Camarque with abounding backbone and let Finian Maynard fly to a new apple almanac in 60-80 knots of wind, it was "only" gusting a bit over 60 knots on that appropriate day - abundant to coffin several kites of the riders beneath bags of beach and to about-face the timing band upside down.

 

Alex Caizergues set the mark of the day with a beauteous 43.09 knots run, Sebastien Cattelan, Rolf van der Vlugt and Christophe Prin-Guenon hit this bewitched mark as well. In now up to 50 knots of wind not abounding riders fabricated the way up to the starting mark, but for those aggressive it was a bewitched experience. Sjoukje Bredenkamp was arch the ladies antagonism for a continued time, but alone a few account afore the end of the leg Charlotte Consorti snatched achievement with admirable 34.5 knots.

 

After a best breach the additional leg of the day was started at 14:30. The wind gusting 60 knots in the meantime, aerial baptize and beach everywhere.

 

The speeds were not so absorbing as in the aboriginal leg, as the baptize was absolutely asperous now and best runs concluded up in bad crashes. Everything went able-bodied so far for assertive Alexandre Caizergues, until the timing band fell over in a abundant access and the chase had to be chock-full for a few minutes. After reopening the course, Rolf van der Vlugt set the run of this leg with a claimed best acceleration of 42.35 knots, Charlotte Consorti anon abaft him with 36.39 knots, demography the advance in the womens top acceleration ranking.

 

As fast as the wind came, the fast it dissappeared again. Antagonism canicule four to six saw no added activity on the baptize except some freesailing. So all activity concentrated on the black program, able-bodied organized by the PSL crew.

 

On the aftermost day, the pricegiving was afresh captivated beneath dejected sky in the black sun in advanced of the Centre Nautique - a absolute hardcore antagonism came to an end, and not a distinct adversary will balloon this appropriate experience.

Final Rankings Men:
1. Alexandre Caizergues (FRA, 3.5 points, 43.09 knots)
2. Rolf van der Vlugt (NED, 9.7, 42.35)
3. Sebastien Cattelan (FRA, 17, 41.58)
4. Christophe Prin-Guenon (FRA, 19, 40.52)
5. Manu Taub (FRA, 26, 41.43)

 

Final Rankings Women:
1. Charlotte Consorti (FRA, 3.5 points, 36.39 knots)
2. Sjoukje Bredenkamp (RSA, 8.7, 34.47)
3. Katja Roose (NED, 15, 31.40)

 

 

 

SOURCE: Speed:World:Cup

Portugal to host 2008 Windsurfing Grand Prix

The 2008 Portugal Windsurfing Grand Prix will take place in Sines, between the 6th and 10th May.

 

This is an important year for windsurfing. The Formula Windsurfing Grand Prix series goes global. Where better to start the world tour than in Portugal, home of so many international events and championships.

 

At this years Sines-Portugal Grand Prix we will be unveiling our bid to represent olympic windsurfing in 2012: the Formula One-Design.
Overpower have consistantly delivered quality events; and we look forward to a long association with the municipality of Sines.

 

Check out the NoticeOfRace

 

SOURCE: IWA

Günzlein Normen conquers the Toro Andaluz

Tarifa, often called the European capitol of windsurfing didn't disappoint us at all. What more an you wish for the first event in a new season? Nothing!!! Sure a second double elimination would have been great, sure a bit more stable condition would have made it easier but as windsurfers we're used to life with compromise and what we got here again was just perfect!!! No doubt…

 

Normen takes home a lot of points for the overall title, that's for sure. He is the one that the guys will be chasing now but as the young German is a pro he will handle the pressure for sure. Competing for many years on the tour, having a lot of experience he will take good care to stay in leading position.

 

Kevin Mevissen (RRD) on the second place is fully on fire, coming to Spain he had not much freestyle practise on his account, you might say none. His awesome performance on the water infected him again and its clear that we will see him on some other efpt stops as well.

 

Antxon Otaegui (JP/NP) takes the third place, amazing start for the Spanish rider. Coming from the cannaries you can't say that he's a local so it was not easier for him at all to compete here and the third place shows how well Antxon is prepared and motivated to go on tour this year.

 

The man of the event has to be Steven van Broeckhoven though, almost unknown to European riders he kinda appeared out of nowhere, eliminating big names all over the ladder. The Belgian magazine cant wait to get him close for some interviews and reports how he did but we can tell you straight away: GREAT!!!

 

The first event of a season is always a good place to see what to expect over the rest of the season. In this case Tarifa was amazing, the well known riders in the event have to watch out for the newcomers and also know now which moves they need to get in first positions.
so the next weeks before Podersdorf will be full of practising and preparing for that one, especially as it will be a combination with the PWA.

 

We sort of had a foretaste of what to expect, Raimondo Gasperini (Starboard), who was practising in Jeri this year started a project to support young talents and he brought some brasilian hotshots as well as Italiian styler to the Andalusian beach. The X-Ray project is fantastic; supporting riders to give them some event experience is just great. Although the brasillians cant become European Champion obviously they still improve their contest sills and push the level massive…

 

Wow, we had a immense competition fleet and its so hard to mention all riders, 35 riders from 15 nations hit the water leaving impressed spectators behind. Moves like double flaka, ponch, switch chachoos, super high shakas seem to become standard and if a rider is not able to do it at the beginning of the event he practises them between the heats and shows (or tries to show) it in his next heat. The excitement in this competition was amazing so if you have the chance to visit a event near you, that's definitely something you should do.

 

As the forecast for the last day was not good the complete (and it was complete) efpt family met at the "café del mar" in tarifa city. A super nice place, stylish as hell so it was just the perfect place to celebrate the start of the tour and the end of the event. The group went crazy all night and could only be stopped by the fact that the police shut down the place in the morning hours. Nevertheless the guys continued in tarifa downtown and surprisingly were all present at the today's super session at one pm. For the last time in this year they showed the crowds on the beach what first class freestyle is all about!!! Smiling faces all over the place showed once again that they're not just amazing competitors but a bunch of good friends who live for this sport, travel the continent and just want to know who will be the best in the end.

 

Hard to say our "good buys" once again to the friendly people who organize the event and support us with all we need to run the competition. But gypsies as we are we have to go and can only promise to be back next year…

 

As great and fantastic it was the stories told around the world about tarifa and the region of Andalusia will be just the best. We highly recommend this place to everyone in Europe and around the world. Every windsurfer and kitesurfer who wants to have a good time, great conditions and stay in a place which is fully addicted to water sport will be damn happy to come here!!!

 

RESULTS:

 

01 Günzlein Normen GER G-186 JP/NP
02 Mevissen Kevin NED H 79 RRD
03 Otaegui Antxon ESP E-169 JP/NP
04 Van Broeckhoven Steven BEL B72 F2
05 Roßmeier Michael AUT AUT 256 Exocet/the Loft
06 Popretinskiy Egor RUS RUS-11 JP/NP
07 de Weerd Remko NED H-23 Tabou/Gaastra
07 Paskowski Andre GER G-2 Fantic/North Sails
09 da silva danilo menez BRA bra 83 Fanatic/North Sails
09 Olandersson Andreas SWE S-66 Fanatic/Simmer Style
09 Stråhlén Niklas SWE S-4444 RRD/Simmer Style
09 Sumereder Michael AUT AUT-9 RRD/North
13 Akgazcyan Nicolas FRA F 400 Starboard/Gun Sails
13 Kosmowski Jakub POL POL 288 Tabou/Gaastra
13 souza de pedro edvan BRA bra 250
13 Žan Andraž SLO SLO 49 RRD/the Loft
17 De Rycker Roeland BEL B67 The Loft
17 Dixon Colin GBR k 99 Tabou/Gaastra
17 Forstenlechner Lorenz AUT Aut-7 F2
17 Janssen Kenny BEL B34
17 Kruse Stefan GER G 360 F2
17 Petrisie Ruben/Bang NED NB-50 Exocet/the Loft
17 Slabe Tine SLO SLO 6 F2/Naish
17 Spadea Nicola ITA I 44 Starboard
25 Alvarez Mauricio AUT AUT 86 Tabou/Gaastra
25 Caers Jelle BEL B 47 F2/the Loft
25 Caers Rolien BEL B74 F2
25 Pollet Arthur FRA BRA218
25 scheuble pete SUI sui 969 JP/NP
25 Seyss Alexander AUT aut-61 Naish/Naish
25 teixeira francisco samuel BRA bra 64 Starboard
33 Cervero Rafael ESP E-13 The Loft
33 Gasperini Raimondo ITA i 157 Starboard
33 Van der Eyken Dieter BEL B35 Starboard

 

SOURCE: EFPT

Kite Gen to compete with nuclear power

Kite Gen is pioneering a revolution on how to produce clean energy from wind, with the aim not only to compete within the current wind industry but, as still too rarely happens with renewable sources, to move the battlefield into the territory of fossil fuels.

 

Today's technology is just capable of scratching the surface, in few favourable points, of the enormous energy field contained into the wind (see Wind data). Wind turbines cannot reach higher and touch altitude wind, they are already close to their dimensional limits: difficultly hubs can be positioned at more than 100 m above the ground, the holding structure grows exponentially heavier, more unstable and above all more expensive with the height.

 

This situation may be compared with what happened in oil drilling, where only after having found better and better solutions it was possible to move away from the ground - downwards, in this case - and to reach the deepest and most profitable fields. To help visualizing the existing unexploited potential, just consider that the flight prohibited area over a nuclear power plant can easily get to contain 1 GW of wind power, equal to the power of the plant itself.

 

To reach altitude wind and exploiting its higher kinetic energy, the Kite Gen project starts from a radical change of perspective: no longer heavy and static plants like current wind turbines, but instead light, dynamic and intelligent ones. In the air, to subtract energy from the wind at an altitude of 800 / 1 000 m, power kites, semi-rigid automatically piloted high efficiency air foils. On the ground, all the heavy machinery for power generation. To connect the two systems, high resistance lines transmitting the traction of the kites and at the same time controlling their direction and angle to the wind.

 

SOURCE: Kite Gen