Bray Lake Watersports SUP Festival

On the 15th and 16th of June, Bray Lake will be running a full weekend of Stand Up Paddle (SUP) events for paddlers of all abilities. There are three main competitive events running throughout the weekend as well as board demo’s, introductory ‘have a go’ sessions, fitness sessions and advanced coaching for those looking to improve their paddle skill and technique.

The main events are:

A 10k SUP/Run Duathlon

The first event of its kind in the UK, this race requires participants to run and paddle two 5k distances, 10k in total. Similar to many ‘Battle of the Paddle’ style SUP races, the Duathlon will be split into five segments – 1.6k paddle, 2.5k run, 1.6k paddle, 2.5k run, and 1.6k paddle. Competitors are invited to register for this race as an individual or as a team of two (with one runner and one paddler).

200m Sprints

This popular race format will have paddlers sprinting down 100m buoyed lanes, turning around a mark and sprinting back to the start/finish line with the top 2 going through to following heats. A tournament style race format will help to dictate the fastest man and woman on the water.

The sprints will be on One Design equipment (supplied) and run in heats of six.

Adventure Race

This is a 12-18 mile race on the River Thames from Hurley to Windsor (final distance to be confirmed based on condition of river flow).

There will be a competitive race category and non-competitive adventure paddle category in order to complete a set 12-18 mile distance (based on river conditions). Our goal is to set a course between Hurley and Runneymede passing many iconic Thames River Valley towns and landmarks including Marlow, Maidenhead, Eton Dorney, Windsor Castle, and Runneymede.

Please note that the Adventure Race is highly dependent on Thames River Conditions and the final course will be set prior to the event.

A glassy early morning paddle at Bray Lake Watersports

Registration and Point Accumulation:

All are welcome to join and participate in the Bray Lake SUP Festival Weekend events, board demos and introductory sessions.

Event registration is only required for participants wishing to participate in one or more of the core events of the SUP Festival Weekend: SUP Duathlon, Sprint Event, Adventure Paddle and Distance Race. Registration is available for single days or whole weekend. Registration is NOT required to demo boards and paddles.

There will be prizes available for each separate event entered; points will also be accumulated throughout the weekend to determine the top three overall male, female and junior finishers. All participants will be recognized for their participation with prizes being given throughout the weekend.

Board Demo:

A variety of board brands will be on hand with SUP equipment on display and for demo. All are welcome to try out the different boards and speak with industry experts.

Introductory ‘Have a Go’ Sessions:

There will be SUP taster sessions and BSUPA ‘Ready To Ride’ courses running through out the day so if you have friends that want to give SUP a try then this is the time to do it. As a special ‘SUP Festival’ weekend offer we are offering the 1hr ‘Intro’ sessions at £15 and a 2 hr ‘Ready to Ride’ course is £39.

SUP Party:

At 7pm all are welcome to attend the Bray Lake SUP Festival Party and BBQ. Each registered competitor will receive one entry each. Tickets may be purchased at the registration desk for all non-competitors.

Rules and Regulations

All participants will be required to have 3rd party insurance; those paddling on the river must have a valid Thames River Licence or BCU membership and attend a mandatory race meeting at 8am on Sunday, 16th June. All rules and river etiquette will be discussed at that time.

All paddlers must wear either a buoyancy aid or leash

All boards must be mono hulled and powered by a single bladed paddle. Paddlers must remain in a standing position for the entire duration of the race.

Adventure Race paddlers are required to carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch/container as well as a minimum of 1.5 litres of fluid.

A strict protocol will be enforced throughout the designated course to ensure all rules and river etiquette is followed. Failure to adhere to the set rules will result in disqualification from all competitive classes.

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact the centre.

Note: Duathlon teams must ensure both participants are fully registered for the event.

There will be 7 adult categories available to enter with a 9th junior category also available final results depending on entries.

1. 12’6’’ Men’s

2. 14’ Men‘s

3. 12’6’’ Women’s

4. 14’ Women

5. Youth boy’s (under 18)

6. Youth girl’s (under 18)

7. 12’.6 Junior (under 14)

8. 12’6’’/ 14’ Men’s Team (Duathlon only)

9. 12’6’’/14’ Ladies Team (Duathlon only)

10. 12’6’’/14’ Mixed Team (Duathlon only)

Final positions will be recorded and prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers within each race category.

As the start and finish of the Adventure Race will likely be up and down river from Bray Lake, competitors will be required to arrange board transportation to the start and back from the finish lines. There will be limited transport available on the day.

The event will finish on Sunday, 16 June after the finish of the Adventure Race. TBC.

Schedule:

Friday, 14th June

* 4pm – Industry Set Up and pre-registration for early birds plus warm up paddle.

* 6pm – PaddleFit session with Susanne Lier

Saturday, 15th June

* 8:00– Registration Opens

* 8:30– Start of Board Demo’s

* 9.00-Race Briefing

* 9:30 – SUP Duathlon Start

* 12:30 – Sprint Event Qualifiers

* 16:30 – Spring Event Finals

* 19:00 – SUP Festival Party, BBQ, and Duathlon/Sprint Awards

Sunday, 16th June

* 8:00 – Adventure Paddle and Distance Race Meeting

* 9:00 – Shuttle to Race Start

* 15:00 – Adventure Paddle and Distance Race Awards

Check out the event Facebook page here for all the information and book here on the Bray Lake Watersports website. 

Bray Lake SUP racing

Bray Lake Christmas Coke Bottle SUP Race (16th December 2012)

February 4th, 2013

December saw the final Bray Lake SUP Race of 2012 and the year ended in style, great conditions, around 20 competitors and some new demo kit to race on. The days racing differed slightly from the usual format, with a 3K race circuit followed by a 200m sprint tournament, as the main events and a short warm up circuit to start.

Bray Lake race action

We ended up having some amazing conditions for racing with very light winds and above average temperatures for December. All the racers arrived about 9.30am ready to go and met with a stash of demo race boards from Nah Skwell, Starboard and Red Paddle Co. Big thanks to Richard and John from Nah Skwell and Sam Ross from Starboard and Red paddle Co, the kit went down a treat.

Healthy Turn Out

Race – 3K

The Bray Lake 3K course was more technical than most, with a total of 5 right and 3 left hand turns. The fleet of 18 set off on a mixture of 12’6, 14’0 and cross over boards, some inflatable and some hard boards. 3K is not an easy distance to pace, but everyone gave it there all and we had some great results from the locals.

Check out the results below (broken down into race class).

14 foot – 3K

• 1st – Sam Ross
• 2nd – Mark Hatton
• 3rd – Simon Hemsley
• 4th – Ali Pereira
• 5th – Sandra Elston

12’6 – 3 K

• 1st – Charlie Grey
• 2nd – Colin Elston
• 3rd – Simon Frost
• 4th – Phil Richards
• 5th – Miles Jones
• 6th – Tom Hicks
• 7th – Mark May
• 8th – Lucy Mccormick
• 9th – Richard Marsh
• 10th – Candice Betts

Ladies – 3K

• 1st – Ali Pereira (board size: 14′)
• 2nd – Lucy Mccormick (board size: 12’6)
• 3rd – Candice Betts (board size:  12’6)
• 4th – Sandra Elston (board size: 14′)
• 5th – Susan Jones Cross

Inflate – 3 K

• 1st – Sam Ross (Board size: 14′)
• 2nd – Phil Richards (Board size: 12’6)
• 3rd – Lucy Mccormick (Board size: 12’6)

The Sprint

Based on 3 and 4 man heats, the sprint tournament was run in a knock out fashion with the first from each heat proceeding to the next round. To make the sprints fare all competitors used 12’6 Red paddle Co race boards.

We ended up with a close final, with Charlie Grey winning with Sam Ross in second. Sam and Charlie faced each other in their first heat and finished at exactly the same time putting them both through. In the final they were both itching to get one over on each other.

Well done to Colin and Mark for winning their races in the B fleet finals (fastest loser’s finals from the opening heats).

Lucy put in an amazing performance in the ladies tournament to come first. See the results below;

Mens Sprint Final

• 1st – Charlie Grey
• 2nd – Sam Ross
• 3rd – Simon Frost

Mens Sprint (B) Final

• 1st – Colin Elston
• 2nd – Mark Hatton 2

Sprint Ladies

• 1st – Lucy Mccormick
• 2nd – Candice Betts
• 3rd – Susan Jones
• 4th – Sandra Elston

A different format from normal, but enjoyed by everyone. The day was topped off with a prize giving, with all the winners in their respective classes receiving Bray Lake branded shot glasses. I think shots were the last thing on everyone’s mind after a long days racing, but the prizes went down well. The next big SUP race will be in the New Year, with our winter race series finals in March and the Bray Lake SUP festival on the 15th – 16th of June. Till then we look forward to seeing all the competitors at the Lake over the coming weeks in preparation.

Join us on facebook.com/braylake and at www.braylake.com

Instructor courses are run all around the country by various windsurf trainers, take  a look at the RYA website for more info and for dates check out this link.  Trainer and well known coach, Sam Ross, has recently released the dates of the courses he will be coaching in 2013, it looks like he’s got a rather full calendar!

Boards would especially recommend the courses run at the OTC Puravida Centre in Weymouth, Lagoon Watersports in Brighton and Bray Lake Watersports in Berkshire. So check out the links and get involved!

Want to become an instructor in 2013?

Winter essentials

This is our final Christmas wish list, which brings together a final few items essential to a warm winter for any windsurfer. These along with all our previous wish lists provides the ultimate shopping list for the festive season, so anyone looking to buy for a windsurfer take a look!

Northcore belt

Our first winter essential, this one for on the water, is a heat belt. Northcore produce this one for £15.99, where you add heat packs into the pockets and then wear under your suit for added warmth. Looks like a good idea to us!

The next winter essential is a rigging jacket. Anyone that already has one will know these are an absolute necessity for standing around on the beach, especially in the winter. The pre and post windsurfing chat on the beach, is almost as much fun as the time on the water, so don’t miss out on this just because it’s colder. Our top recommendations for rigging jackets are the reversible jacket from Spartan (£89.00) and the NEO shelter jacket from ION.

NEO shelter jacket from ION

Spartan rigging jacket

Once you have decided to change out of your suit and taken off the rigging jacket, it’s essential to continue to keep warm. The best and easiest way to change at the beach or lake is with a poncho / changing towel. These keep you warm and hide your modesty, it’s a win win! Our top picks for these are again from Spartan and ION; ION offer this bright blue poncho (also available in black), whilst Spartan have this changing towel available for £29.50. 

Spartan changing towel

ION poncho

Bulldog changing mat and bag

ION Beanie

ION towel cover

Another handing changing accessory is a changing mat. Many of these, like the Bulldog version (£19.95) are both a comfy changing mat that keeps your suit off the sand and dirt, and a bag to take your wetsuit home in!

Once changed it’s time to head home, if you’ve got a long journey make sure you keep your head warm with this ION beanie. Or if you have a short journey and are heading home in your suit why not try these towel seat covers that will keep your seats nice and dry and can be used as towel for yourself too?

Our final winter essentials are a car/van dehumidifier to take away the unwanted moisture from your windsurfing gear, some anti freeze and a good windscreen scraper! There’s a lot of options on the market, suited to different vehicles, so choose the one’s recommended for your mode of transport. Check out more travel essentials here. 

Boards recommends the following retailers for all your shopping needs. 

These retailers stock listed products along with a lot more christmas gift options.

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Boardwise

Quayside Windsurfers

Robin Hood Watersports

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Juice Boardsports

Tech Trial

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Andy Biggs 

Bray Lake

L.A.R. Watersports 

Puravida Boardriders

Wet n Dry Boardsports

4Boards 

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 Check out the rest of our Christmas Wish Lists:

Just some of the products in this week's Eye Candy Wish List

Let’s face it, we all like a little bit of Eye Candy. Something to stare longingly at in the winter months to remind us of warm and windy times, or to prepare us for the next on water session. Here’s our top pick of awe inspiring, eye catching items which should be at the top of any windsurfers christmas list.

If you’re not spending as much time on the water over the winter as usual, it’s even more important to keep the windsurf moves ticking over in your mind, so let’s look at the top visuals for improving your skills.

Go Pro with Colin and Marco DVD

First up we have the Go Pro with Colin and Marco DVD (£29.95); this has been shot with five different camera angles to give you a real inside look at exactly how to do a whole range of moves from carve, duck and laydown gybes, through to 360s, body drags, loops and vulcans.

Colin Dixon.

Marco Wedele

Colin and Marco are both exceptional coaches with a lot of experience, which definitely comes across in this DVD.

To find out more about Go Pro with Colin and Marco head here.

Another top DVD collection to guide you through your windsurfing journey is Jem Hall’s trilogy (various £); whether your just starting out, getting to grips with freestyle or taking to the waves, Jem has it covered. Take a look at the trailers below and head on over to http://www.jemhall.com for all the info.

Tricktionary

Tricktionary (various £), as many of you may know, is another great way of learning a lot of windsurfing moves. From the very beginning right through to the most complex of manoeuvres, Tricktionary is the place to find all the info. Tricktionary is now available as a book, DVD, app and more, head here for full details.

But windsurfing of course is not all about watching specific instructional pieces, just watching the pros pull off truly incredible feats can be enough to inspire us to head onto the water. One of the best people at filming and producing movies for this very purpose is Andre Paskowski, we’ve all recently seen Rewarded, but remember Minds Wide Open (£24.00)? One of the stand of windsurfing movies of all time, and a great stocking filler too!

Check out the trailer below, and for more info on the filming, the team and what the movie is all about head here. 

Minds Wide Open Trailer from Andre Paskowski on Vimeo.

Stepping away from moving images to the printed variety, there are a lot of awesome windsurfing photos out there and some of the best have been chosen for a selection of 2013 calendars now on offer. The biggest, and potentially the best, are the 2013 Open/Shut windsurfing calendars (£19.99); one focussing on the UK breaks and the other going worldwide. These calendars take some of the best shots from PWA photographer John Carter and put them into a glossy, classy calendar which makes a nice addition to any windsurfers wall.

Check out the Open/Shut website for more images and full details of the calendars; alsocheck out this link for more details of other windsurfing calendars available for 2013.

Worldwide windsurfing calendar 2013

UK windsurfing calendar 2013

Whilst we’re talking about printed windsurfing images, it would be rude not to remind you that the Autumn Winter Wave Annual of Boards Magazine (£8.50 inclusive of p&p) is currently on sale too! Again this wil make a great stocking filler, especially for any wave head; with the Cloning of Koster, travel to southern America with Maui’s best, looking back at the evolution of wavesailing and much more more there is something for everyone in this 180 page publication. Check out more and where you can purchase right here. 

Contents close up, what are you looking forward to reading?

Boards Autumn/Winter Wave Annual 2012/13

Windsurf model

If you’re looking for a slightly more quirky christmas gift, then a windsurfing model could be just the ticket! In the past these resembled 1980′s style equipment, now however the models are made incredibly well and really look like miniature versions of real equipment! Perfectly placed on the mantel piece of any windsurfer, these models are produced and sold by a few companies, our top pick are the one’s from Boardwise.

We’re going to finish this weeks wish list with something a little different, and just for the ladies (well, we have seen men wearing them too actually!). Nalu Beads (various £) have come up with an original way of remember for favourite sessions at your favourite breaks.

Each bead is named after and inspired by a surfing break, pop the beads together on a bracelet, necklace or anklet and bring back memories of great surfing or windsurfing times what ever the weather; plus they look amazing too! Check out a couple of our favourites below, and for more info head to the Nalu Beads site here.

Hawaiian Islands

Gwithian

The Witterings

Boards recommends the following retailers for all your shopping needs. These retailers stock listed products along with a lot more christmas gift options.

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Boardwise

Quayside Windsurfers

Robin Hood Watersports

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Juice Boardsports

Tech Trial

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Andy Biggs 

Bray Lake

L.A.R. Watersports 

Puravida Boardriders

Wet n Dry Boardsports

4Boards 

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Christmas Wish List - Optical and Photographic

But what does make the ultimate gift for a windsurfer? Over the coming weeks we will talk through a variety of gift ideas; this week we are getting techy and looking through our favourite cameras and accessories.

Over the last few years personal photography has developed beyond belief; there’s no more waiting to bribe someone to take photos or video of you windsurfing from the shore, now you can record yourself.

Taken with a GoPro Hero HD 2 Surf Edition

The GoPro is one of the most well known products that allows you to do this. The GoPro Hero HD 2 Surf Edition (£299.00) offers an unbelievable way of filming from a wide variety of angles, using various mounts and of course it’s waterproof too. For the full product specification on this camera click here.  The GoPro Hero HD 2 Surf Edition was one of the lightest, most compact ways of on water filming; that was until version 3 arrived! The Go Pro Hero 3 Surf Edition (£359.99) is fresh on the market; a step up from the GoPro 2 there is of course an increase in price too, so which one will you choose?

GoPro Hero HD 2 Surf Edition

GoPro Hero HD 2 Surf Edition and all it's accessories

Go Pro Hero 3 Surf Edition

There are of course many more camera options aside from the GoPro; another camera making a big splash is the Drift (WAS £339.99 NOW £239.95!). The ultimate helmet cam, the Drift offers some impressive statistics:

• 

  Drift

  1080p High Definition Video

• up to 32GB Micro SD Memory Capacity
• 25 / 30 / 50 / 60 FPS in 720p
• 25 / 30 FPS in 1080p
• 9 Megapixel Still Photography
• ×4 Digital Zoom
• 170° Wide Angle Lens (130° at 60fps)

For full details on the Drift click here. 

Another option is the ContourROAM2; one of the easiest – and most stylish – ways to shoot action video. Packed with useful features like 4 HD video modes – including 60FPS, an Instant-On Record switch, a 270° rotating lens, and Contour’s signature laser alignment, you’ll have everything you need in a compact, easy-to-use camera. Waterproof and available in 4 beautiful colors, the ContourROAM2 makes action video dead simple. Want to find out more?

Contour Roam2

Contour Roam2

Once you have your camera, you of course want to make sure you have the best possible mount for it too. And nobody makes mounts for windsurfing (and other sports too!) as good as Flymount(£59.00).

Shot taken with a Flymount

Ultra compact, super lightweight, built to last, and now used by some of the world’s most respected photographers and athletes the Flymount also works with virtually any camera, including the GoPro and Drift. It really is a must have for any windsurfer, check out the full specs here.

Flymount

Flymount

If you already have a camera, but it’s not waterproof there are lots of options available from Aquapac to keep your camera safe underwater. From extra small to SLR, with hard lens covers and without, and everything in between there will be an option for whatever camera you have and would like to keep safe, just take a look here. 

Many more products on offer at www.techtrial.co.uk

Our last piece of camera advice is try before you buy! With all the options on the market it is incredibly hard to decide which camera to buy, but thankfully Tech Trial have the answer! Search their website to find the product you like, trial it and then decide whether you would like to buy or not. No more tough decisions or regretting your purchases; plus it’s not just cameras that Tech Trial trial and sell, choose from the latest tablets, phones, audio, gaming and accessories.

Boards recommends the following retailers for all your shopping needs. These retailers stock listed products along with additional accessories and many different types of camera. For professional advice and trials please contact them directly.

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Boardwise

Quayside Windsurfers

Robin Hood Watersports

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Juice Boardsports

Tech Trial

_____________________________________________________________________

Andy Biggs 

Bray Lake

L.A.R. Watersports 

Puravida Boardriders

Wet n Dry Boardsports

4Boards 

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Boards catches up with Boardwise to find out more about how the demos are run and what’s involved:

Just some of the Boardwise demo equipment set up and ready to go! Image credit Dave White.

“We run a summer demo at Aberdovey which coincides with the BSA slalom event. This is the biggest of the year with support from the town, the Yacht club and all the importers.

When someone comes along to a demo they can try all the latest kit, get advice from the people who really know about the products, but most of all just come to an event which gives them a great feel about the sport of windsurfing!

The main summer and winter demos are supported by brands including: Fanatic and North, RRD and Ezzy, Tabou and Gaastra, and Starboard and Tushingham. Not only do the brands supply top notch NEW equipment, they also bring along some top sailors too.

Demo regulars now include (to name but a few):  former PWA superstar Nik Baker, current Formula World Champion Ross Williams, master of speed Dave White, plus awesome coaches Jem Hall, Sam Ross, etc. They are all more than happy to help not only with rigging, tuning and choosing equipment but also can offer top technique tips too.

Lots of people turn up and sail on Saturday. Then Saturday evening usually involves a few drinks, before getting on the water again to blow away the cobwebs on Sunday morning.

All images from the Boardwise Bonfire Bash 2013 and credit Dave White.

We are usually fairly lucky with the weather, and the huge range of equipment on offer means people can almost always get on the water. But even if the wind doesn’t blow we all have a great weekend; there’s normally a good night out on the Saturday at least!

We also go to all of the student events through out the year; the SWA run a great series of events through the autumn, winter and into spring. They really focus on getting as many people onto the water at all levels; there is a great contingent of beginners and improvers at the student event and we are proud to support them by taking all our gear for them to use! Plus our van goes up to the local club once a week in the summer.

On Guy Fawkes weekend each year we run a Bonfire Bash, it’s a bit late in the year so it can be a little cold, but again we have a great weekend none the less with fires on the beach and an amazing firework display! Check out the full report from Boardwise on the here. 

Whilst most of our demos take place at Aberdovey, we do offer some more local ones and we are looking to do a few more at different venues next year.”

There are lots of clubs, schools, brands and shops that run demos. At Boards we always try to have the latest info on up coming demos online, but if one is happening at your local spot that we haven’t promoted then please do contact amy@boards.co.uk and let us know!

Find all the windsurfing demo news on Boards through this link.

Boards Recommended Demos

Boardwise  - based in Cannock, demos at various locations but regularly run at Aberdovey. Follow all the Boardwise news on Boards here.

Robin Hood Watersports  - based in Yorkshire, frequently run demos at West Kirby.  Follow all the Robin Hood Watersports news on Boards here.

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Juice Boardsports – based in Huddersfiled, regular demos on forecast run at Fraisthorpe announced both here on Boards and through their forum. 

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Bray Lake - based in Berkshire, run occasional demo days. Follow all the Bray Lake news on Boards here. 

Lagoon Watersports -   based in Hove, run occasional demo days (usually with Fanatic/North). Follow all the Lagoon Watersports news on Boards here.

L.A.R. Watersports - based in Pagham, run occasional demo days. Follow all the LAR Watersports news on Boards here.

Puravida Boardriders - based in South Glamorgan, run occasional demo days. Follow all the Puravida Boardriders news on Boards here.

Quayside Windsurfers - based in Norfolk, run occasional demo days. Follow all the Quayside Windsurfers news on Boards here.

Wet n Dry Boardsports - based in Basildon, run occasional demo days. Follow all the Wet n Dry Boardsports news on Boards here.

4Boards  - based in Southampton, run occasional demo days. Follow at the 4Boards news on Boards here.

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Many more demo days and information about similar events can be found on the RYA’s Project Windsurf – UK website. They even have a specific demo events page right here where many chose to share event info. Project Windsurf UK also gives you the opportunity to share what is happening at your local windsurfing spot, so head on over and get involved!

You might also like to read:

But what does make the ultimate gift for a windsurfer? Over the coming weeks we will talk through a variety of gift ideas; next up are our favourite Travel and Storage items– every image is clickable, so click the pic for more information on the item.

ION Single Board Bag

Travelling for a windsurfer can mean anything from popping down the road to the local lake, to jetting across to the other side of the world and there are a few essentials for any journey.

Board bags are an absolute must to protect your beloved boards, and they come in various size options. If you want to take just one board with you, wherever you are heading to, the ION single board bag for £69.95 is a  great lightweight bag that still provides a great amount of padding.

Or if you want to be able to take a fair few more boards with you, you may want to look at the Flying Objects triple wave board bag (£154.99). This offers fantastic protection and is the perfect way to carry your whole quiver of boards.

Triple boardbag

drag patches

Triple tie down

triple straps

Pat Love One Shot

If you want to get everything in one bag on your travels there are also a few options to look at. The Pat Love One Shot (£139.00) can carry a quiver of one board, three sails, two masts and one boom, making it the perfect travel companion.

If however you’ve got a little more in your quiver that you would like to take away with you the Flying Objects Windsurf roller (£142.99) maybe the answer.

The Flying Objects Roller Bag

internal pockets

internal tie down

roller wheels

Pat Love Roof Straps

If you’re travelling a little closer to home and strapping gear onto your car is the priority then these straps from Pat Love are a must have. Available in 25mm and 50mm for £9.95 and £19.95 respectively, it is definitely worth checking your straps are in full working order to avoid and mid journey snapping!

Another, more secure way of tying down your boards is with Kanulock.

ION roof rack pads

An essential under the straps, to keep your equipment safe are roof rack pads. We recommend these ones from ION, available for £15.99.

Or you could look at another option for a roof rack; HandiRack (£59.99) is a totally inflatable roof rack which is light, durable and easy to use.

Action Van double seat cover

Oshea single seat cover

It is of course important to travel in style too, and seat covers offer both a great look plus keep your seats dry and sand free! Action Vans and O’Shea both offer great single and double covers – O’Shea single £29.99 and O’Shea double £39.99. Action Van T5 single £37.50 and Action Van T5 double £42.00.

Where to buy?

Boards recommends the following retailers that stock items in this week’s Christmas wish list.

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Boardwise - ION, Flying Objects, O’Shea, Handirack, Kanulock.

Robin Hood Watersports - ION, Handirack, Pat Love, Kanulock.

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Juice Boardsports - Flying Objects, O’Shea, Handirack, Kanulock

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Action Van -  Action Van, Kanulock.

Andy Biggs  - ION, Flying Objects, Handirack, Kanulock.

Bray Lake - ION, Flying Objects, Handirack.

L.A.R. Watersports - ION, O’Shea, Handirack, Pat Love, Kanulock.

Puravida Boardriders - ION, Flying Objects, O’Shea, Handirack, Pat Love.

Quayside Windsurfers - ION, Flying Objects.

Wet n Dry Boardsports - ION, Flying Objects, Kanulock.

4Boards  - ION, O’Shea

Check out the previous Christmas Wishlists: 

Winter Warmers

winter warmers

bray from Tushingham on Vimeo.

But what does make the ultimate gift for a windsurfer? Over the coming weeks we will talk through a variety of gift ideas; first up are our favourite Winter Warmers – every image is clickable, so click the pic for more information on the item.

Our top pick of winter warmers

Keeping warm on the water is pretty tricky as temperatures plummet, but there are a few items which will really make a difference and mean you can stay on the water even longer. Gloves are definitely one of these items, but which style of glove would suit you?

There are two main types to look at: closed and open palm.

Closed palm, traditional gloves no doubt give the best protection from the elements. ION produce a pre curved version called the Claw (£23.95) which gives optimum warmth with comfort, and O’Neill also make a version called the FLX (£18.00) with a slightly tacky grip to help keep hold of the boom!

Which closed palm glove? The O'Neill FLX?

Or the ION Claw?

Click for more info!

Whilst traditional gloves offer the most warmth and protection, some windsurfers prefer the feel of an open palm glove.

With the palm part of the glove cut away it means that there is a little more flexibility and movement for the hand. This also enables you to get a better feel for the boom, whilst still protecting the outer part of the hand from the elements.

Again there are various options of open palmed gloves on the market; our top picks are from ION (£19.99) and Spartan (£17.50). Both provide warmth, flexibility and a great all round fit.

Find out more about Spartan Mittens

Or do you prefer the ION version?

Moving from hands to feet, there are again various options for keeping your toes warm over the cold spell.

O’Neill offer a traditional style boot, called Heat (£34.95) which more than lives up to it’s name and offers optimal warmth with 5mm fluid foam neoprene. Another fantastic boot comes from Atan, who offer two versions: the Mistral 3mm (£39.95) and the Hot Mistral 6mm! (£42.95). Designed by windsurfers, for windsurfers the Atan boots again offer warmth and a comfortable feeling in the straps.

Click here for more on the O'Neill Heat

And here for the Atan Mistral....or Mistral Hot?

The ION Ballistic socks

Billabong Revolution, also with split toes...

A different option for boots is to go split toes; some prefer this feel as it offers a little more movement  for the feet. If you are looking at this type of boot our top pick is the Billabong 3mm Revolution boot (£29.95).

The ION Ballistic Socks 6/5mm (£64.95) are also adding to the variety of footwear on the market. With no seams these socks offer an internal split toe plus an even more flexibility for the foot.

We all know keeping our heads warm, both on and off the water, makes a massive difference. Again with headwear, there are a few options to look at. O’Neill offer the fantastic Gooru Hood (£19.95) which gives complete coverage for head, neck and ears.

Relatively new onto the market are a new way of keeping your head warm; the neoprene beanie. Offering almost the same warmth as a full hood, the beanie will keep your head warm but with your ears free you can hear at full capacity! Spartan (£15) offer the beanie shown below and  ION offer an incredible 10 different designs from £19.99. Beanies also come with straps/strings so don’t worry, they won’t be lost at sea!

O'Neill Gooru Hood

Spartan Beanie, classic is great

ION Beanie: one of many to chose from!

Our final must have winter warmer is a thermal rash vest. These offer another extra warm barrier against the cold; O’Neill’s Thermo X is  fleece 8oz lined providing great insulation and comes in long (£34.95) or short sleeved (£39.95) . ION’s Hooded Neo vest (£64.95) is fully made of neoprene and can be worn under or over a wetsuit, where of course the  attached hood gives you the best of both worlds!

ION Neo Vest

O'Neill Thermo rash vest

Where to buy?

The following retailers stock items in this week’s Christmas wish list.

Andy Biggs - ION, Spartan, O’Neill and Atan.

Boardwise – ION Beanies, Spartan, O’Neill, Billabong boots and Atan.

Robin Hood Watersports - ION open palm mitts and O’Neill.

Quayside Windsurfers – ION and Atan.

Juice Boardsports – Spartan and Atan.

4Boards - ION and Billabong.

Bray Lake – ION and O’Neill.

L.A.R. Watersports – all ION Products

Puravida Boardriders - ION, O’Neill and Atan.

Wet n Dry Boardsports – ION and O’Neill.

Famous for hosting the PWA Slalom in Costa Brava, the Bellena Allegre camping and bungalow park has become a venue for 2013 Starboard and Severne International Dealer Conference. Retailers and dealers from all over Europe had a chance to see, try and understand the complete collections from Starboard Windsurfing and SUP, Severne and Airush for the upcoming season. This was also a great opportunity to understand the ideology behind the brands along with in-depth information on individual products coming directly from their designers and shapers.

Starboard’s Brand Manager, Tiesda You explained in great detail why Starboard’s ideology of INNOVATION has resulted lead to the success of the brand. Their cutting edge designs became a bench mark in windsurfing and set the brand as a leader in PWA Constructors Championship second year running. The meeting was also a chance to see the first ever inflatable windsurfing board. The design featuring fully compatible and easy to fit windsurfing fin, dagger and mast base will revolutionise the windsurfing teaching and accessibility to the sport!

Highlight of the Severne presentation was the new Reflex 4, the fourth edition of the sail which you could read more about in BOARDS Summer Annual! Their approach in producing the highest quality product with no compromise and dedication is clearly visible when looking at the 2013 products.

Great amount of SUPs and kites allowed the participants of the conference to get on the water in the light wind conditions. Even hardcore wavesailors, like Chris “Muzza” Murray, were dipping their toes in some kite action.

Along with presentations from each brand there was a chance to catch up with the likes of Scott McKercher and talk about his experience and history of designing the wave line for Starboard. Boujmaa Guilloul came over straight from Tahiti where he “surfed the most radical wave in the world” Teahopu’o. For those whose potion is SUPing, current leader of the Tour Sean Poynter was on spot to answer all questions and tell the stories from the tour.

The highlight of the meeting was a visit from the London Olympic windsurfing Champion Marina Alabau. Everyone had a chance to have a word with her and have a closer look at the GOLD Medal – some even had a go trying it… Marina had shared here experience and feedback on getting to the games and winning the Olympic Gold.

Till the next year!

The Revolutionaries project involves shops such as Bray Lake Watersports, Boardwise, Juice Boardsports, Quayside Windsurfers and Puravida Boardriders, who are all selling the brand new Severne equipment which has just landed in the UK. Each shop will be looking for riders with a good local presence to act as an ambassador and be a extra contact for customers on the beach.  You don’t have to be a top pro, being active in your windsurfing community is a lot more important.

Want to join Bjorn Dunkerbeck?

Logistics 

Each shop stocking Severne will have up to three Revolutionaries who will be featured on the shop website, the national distributor’s website and the Severne International website. Each Revolutionary must be highly active in the local windsurf scene (especially with a strong presence on the beach) and be able to produce content which can be promoted online through various social media channels. Through these activities they will be able to build the reputation of the brand in the local area as well as be a point of expertise outside of the shop environment.

You do not need to be the next big thing! You could be a member of staff, a local hot shot or an instructor at your local school. You will have access to a 20% discount on the UK trade price on all Severne products which will need to be ordered through one of the 12 UK Severne Dealers. There will be a full quiver of Blades, Overdrives, NCX’s and Gators available for each rider to use for demos to help promote the equipment in the local area which will be delivered free of charge to your affiliated shop for the event. Severne will also provide you with other promotional materials to help brand the event and use to maintain a constant presence on the beach.

Terms and Conditions

In order to become a Revolutionary you will have to complete an application form which will be sent to Severne HQ in Western Australia for approval before being granted permission to join the Revolutionaries project, if you are successful in your application you will be agreeing to the following terms and conditions:

1. You will effectively be acting as a brand ambassador for Severne in the UK and as such your actions will reflect on the brand, therefore you must ensure that you are approachable on the beach and seen as a valuable source of information,

2. As an ambassador it will be your responsibility to develop and maintain a good knowledge of the Severne product range to include all sails, masts, booms and extensions.

3. Any content posted on your own websites/social media sites can be associated to the brand so you should conduct yourself in a way which reflects the brand in a good light.

4. Provide technical help and feedback on a national level and be a point of contact for enquiries.

5. Organise and run at least one local demo event each year in association with your affiliated shop.

6. Attend (not necessarily compete) at least two National and local windsurfing events each year.

7. Create regular content to be featured on the Severne UK Facebook page be that videos, blog pieces or photos (at least two posts per month).

8. Assist in gaining customers for your affiliated shop from the beach and directing them to the store.

If you are interested in joining the Revolution, then fill out the application form and send this to your local Severne dealer which you can select from the list below:

Boards recommended retailers involved in the Revolution:

Boardwise – cannock@boardwise.com

Bray Lake Watersports – info@braylake.com

Juice Boardsports – team@juiceboardsports.co.uk

Puravida Boardriders – jim@puravidaboardriders.co.uk

Quayside Windsurfers – nikki@quayside-windsurfers.com

Other retailers who are part of the Revolution: 

Rat Rigs – ratrigs@aol.com

Surfstore – sales@surfstore.co.uk

Wet n Dry Boardsports – info@wetndryboardsports.com

Williams Windsurfing – aaran@earthwindwater.co.uk

Andy Biggs – info@andybiggs.co.uk

Boardworx – info@board-worx.com

Liquid Motion – steve@liquidmotion.co.uk

Once you have sent them your application they will select the riders they wish to have representing them to Severne International for approval. If your application is approved you will then receive a welcome pack and will be contacted regarding kit ordering through the shop.

So, will you join the Revolution? Download an application form - Severne Revolutionary Application Form

Bray Lake Blasting

Click links for more information about each club.

To sign up or find out more, please call the Centre on 01628 638860.

Start dates listed below:

Watersports Club (juniors)

Starts today – Tuesday 11th September for 7 weeks, 4:30-6:30 – more info »

Manic Monkeys (juniors)

Thursday 13th September for 7 weeks, 4:30-6:30 – more info »

** NEW CLUBS **

Weekend Junior Club 

Sunday mornings throughout the season 09:30-12:30 – more info »

Weekend Coaching 

Club Sunday mornings throughout the season 09:30-12:30 – more info »

Sunday SUP Club – starting 16th September and paddling all year round (unless it freezes!)

Summer Coke Bottle SUP Finale – 16th September

Come and join us for a grand finale in Summer series of Coke Bottle races. Open to stand up paddleboarders of all ability – more info »

End of Season Sale

And don’t forget we’ve got a sale on! All demo and hire stock is up for sale.

Check out what’s on offer here

Living the Olympic Legacy

With the Olympic buzz still lingering after  so many GB successes being achieved in so many different sports including the canoeing, kayaking, sailing and windsurfing, its now  your chance to be a part of the Olympic legacy to get involved. So if you haven’t already tried a particular water sport, or you know some one who might like to, now is the perfect time especially with our special offer on all adult and junior intro courses this September.

GIVE SAILING, WINDSURFING OR PADDLESPORTS A GO

Bray Lake Blasting

Intro course, 3-4 hours, special price £59 per person

Simply quote: LEGACY2012

Bray Lake Club License

For all those who have completed the minimum of an ‘Intro course’ at Bray Lake,  you are eligible for a Club License? Unique to Bray Lake, the Club License enables you to come down to Club Sessions on Sunday mornings from 9:30-12:30 where a dedicated instructor will be on hand to assist with launching, recovery (if required) and coaching to help develop your skills and get you to the next level.

Details about Club License are available here. To activate your License give the Centre a call and we can get you signed up.

Manic Monkeys After School Club

Tuesday evenings, after school 4:30-6:30, is Watersports Club which is aimed at juniors who are relatively new to water sports and would like to start developing skills, confidence and knowledge. Ideal for youngsters who have done a multi-activity week or had a day’s activity with their school.  On club sessions there will be the chance to do windsurfing, sailing and paddling.

Thursday evenings, after school 4:30-6:30, is Manic Monkeys time! The club is aimed at more experienced junior windsurfers and sailors who really want to push their skills, try their hand at competitive racing and get their hands on performance kit. An experienced, enthusiastic instructor will take youngsters out on the water and provide coaching to help them achieve their goals. Minimum ability for Manic Monkey is RYA Stage 2. Club is open to those aged 8-15 years.

NEW WEEKEND JUNIOR CLUB starting this September on Sunday mornings aimed at any junior who has completed an RYA Stage 1 course and is looking for further coaching and the chance to get out on the water with other keen  water sports enthusiasts. The 3 hour session from 9:30- 12:30 will be fully supervised by an experienced instructor who will provide coaching and tuition to help develop skills, confidence and knowledge.

A one off sessions would cost  £25 which includes wetsuit, buoyancy aid and kit hire. However for those joining as members the session will cost from £12 – £15 depending on membership type.

For more information and to sign up please call the Centre on 01628 638860.

BIG KIT SELL OFF

Throughout September and October you have the chance to grab yourself a bargain as we sell off most of our demo and hire stock. Everything must go!  Spend a little while checking out our shop or give the Centre a call for the latest deals.

For all the latest information from Bray Lake head to their website. 

Catch up with other Bray Lake news on Boards here. 

Check out this weeks deals below…

Retail

Robin Hood Water Sports

Bray Lake

Travel

Sportif

Sportif - Samos

Sportif - Cabarete

Club Vass

Vass - Longest Line - pic courtesy Globalshots.co.uk