Phil Horrocks – Matanzas

Name: Phil Horrocks

Sail No: K303

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results: Rhossy 1st, Ireland 3rd, Cornwall crap, Overall 2nd.

Where have you been training? Chile in November, Cape Town in February, UK the rest of the time, but there’s not been any wind!

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? I wanted to improve my contest sailing in crappy conditions.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? No, I spent my cash and went to some awesome spots that were insanely good…and I don’t regret a minute of it!!

What competitions will you take part in this year?  All PWA and UK events, hopefully… but GC might not happen for me, I’m expecting to be a Daddy on the 17th of July, the week after it finishes.

What are you aims for this year? To win some events and survive parenthood!

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? The sails I tested in CT this winter are amazing, I hope to have them for the summer events. The boards I can’t say I want anything other than what I have at the minute..

Fighting talk…I think the usual bunch will do well, but I suspect this time around Adam Lewis might start to cause a few more upsets, I just hope we get some wind!

James Cox

Name: James Cox

Sail No: K106

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results: 4th Overall Men’s Pro Fleet, 2nd Cornwall Classic, 4th Brandon Bay

Where have you been training? I’ve actually had an injury so down the gym and at the coal face.

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? Wave moves and port tack consistency, but that’s not been easy with a bad ankle.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? Not yet, but being held back can make an explosive start to the preparations. It just looks like I’m going to get there a little later than I anticipated but with more passion.

What competitions will you take part in this year? Definitely the final competitions of the year: Tiree, Cornwall. But depending on treatment I may need to miss Rhosneigr and Ireland.

What are you aims for this year? Get wave moves: wave 360 upwind and downwind in the bag. Get on the podium in at least one event.

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? Equipment has been constantly improving on exceptional standards. I now have the Ezzy Panther Elite 4 batten, whose performance really sum up the amount of R&D and testing that have gone in to these sails. The boards I have the super radical Quatro LSs 110 litre, 85 litre, 78 litre. In summary the gear is golden.

Fighting talk…Jah will provide the bread.

Chris Murray

Name: Muzza aka Chris Murray

Sail No: K202

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results: Think I was 8th?

Where have you been training? Cape Town and Maui.

What did you want to improve after 2012 season?  All my jumping and riding

Do you think you’ve achieved this? I hope so, it’s been a great winter.

What competitions will you take part in this year? I’m going to all four.

What are you aims for this year? To win win win!

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? Got the new Rock, which is epic and Starboard Kode and my warm Spartan suits.

Fighting talk…Can’t wait bring it on boys, bigger the better!

Steve Thorp

Name: Steve Thorp

Sail No: K4

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results:  6th Rossy (only event I did).

Where have you been training? UK weekends and 2 days in Ireland.

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? My wave freestyle

Do you think you’ve achieved this? No, both times I sailed the waves have been too big!

What competitions will you take part in this year? Hopefully all four BWA events.

What are you aims for this year? More TOW, a good excuse for some time off. Keep the Pro’s honest.

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? I’ve moved over to the awesome and very light Hotsails Maui Firelights, and also to the very light Moo custom boards, so should be frothing like a grom, flying round smashing everything!

Fighting talk… You FOPs (fresh off plane) may as well go back to your holidays!

Andy King at Gwithian. Image credit Matthew Burridge.

Name: Andy King

Sail No: K100

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results: 6th Cornwall

Where have you been training?  Cornwall

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? Muscle definition.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? Hell yeah.

What competitions will you take part in this year?  Those with decent wind and waves … Not many then…

What are you aims for this year? World peace and top 3 finishes.

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? No need, Goya Quads / Banzais rock …

Fighting talk…Go hard or stay at home! Biggest rival? John Hibbard, I heard he’s on a come back tour!

John Skye in Ireland. Image courtesy BWA/Dave White.

Name: John Skye

Sail No: K57

Fleet: Masters…. Ah no… they moved it. Pro then.

2012 results: 4th Rhossy, 1st Ireland. Missed last 2 events.

Where have you been training? Gran Canaria, South Africa and Maui.

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? I really wanted to get my doubles better, so they are actually landed rather than just sailed away from.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? Not really yet. I have been trying lots though, which is a good start. Gets me over the fear and then it becomes easier.

What competitions will you take part in this year? Hopefully all the UK and PWA wave events, but it depends a bit on the family. Our new edition, Lily, has sort of changed the priorities a bit.

What are you aims for this year? I would like to win the UK title again. It’s been a few years since I last held the title, and would be nice to take it again.

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? I have been working loads on the sails and they are loads better, so I am really looking forward to competing on the them. Last year’s sails were nice, but the new ones have more control

Fighting talk… I don’t really go for trash talking, I am more of a wish them well, good luck type. Main rivals are the usual Ben, Phil and Jamie, plus I think the toughest will be Ross williams if he chooses to compete. He will be very hard to beat!

George Shillito in action

Name: George Shillito

Sail No: K630

Fleet: Pro men

What did you want to improve after 2012 season?  Everything, unfortunately I was unable to attend all events in 2012 but the level in the UK is rising so fast that if you don’t look to improve it all something will get left behind!

Do you think you’ve achieved this? I’ve been doing an internship in sponsorship and marketing this winter so my time on the water has been stripped right back to basics. Saying that, it does mean when you get a chance to get in the water you realise just how epic windsurfing is every time so I’ve pushed myself harder in those sessions then I normally would for sure.

What competitions will you take part in this year? I’m hoping to get along to as many BWA wave events as possible and could never miss the infamous NWF.

What are you aims for this year? Just have fun. With a winter in an office you quickly come to realise just how awesome every session is whether it be crumbly, onshore mush or perfect down-the-line conditions. Can’t wait just to hit the water hard and enjoy every second!

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? I would say I’ve improved my knowledge in all areas to do with promotion, marketing and sponsorship….not sure that will help me much on the water! Haha! I’ve taken order of a new Starboard Kode and am feeling super happy on the Tushingham Rocks so hopefully this combo of kit should help me make the most of all conditions and every comp.

Fighting talk...Muzza is and has always been my biggest rival – let’s see if all his “training” (holidays) has paid off!! Hahaha!

Jack Hunt

Name: Jack Hunt

Sail No: K657

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results: 7th overall

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? It would be great if I could hang on to a tour rash vest for more than one event this time round.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? We will have to wait and see, but I doubt it.

Training; Peru then sidelined with a fractured ankle.

What competitions will you take part in this year? All of the BWA tour.

What are you aims for this year? To get some great UK waves!

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? Yeah I have a new 78 litre custom Carbon Art for the UK this year. It’s a v bottom single fin that really loves the kind of abuse I have in mind.

Fighting talk…Not for me I’m just there to “punish or be punished”

Sam Neal

Name: Sam Neal

Sail No: K31

Fleet: Pro men

2012 results: 10th

Where have you been training?  I’ve been training in Cape Town this winter.

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? I wanted to improve on all aspects of my sailing. Jumping mostly and getting my turns sorted.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? Mostly haha. We have had a lot of days with big waves and light winds which has been perfect for wave riding. Also, there has been some howling days but with little stunt ramps which has been good for jumping.

What competitions will you take part in this year? I will try to do all four of the BWA events.

What are you aims for this year? I want to be in the top 6 or better.

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? I haven’t changed my Goya stuff at all. Still using the Eclipses and the Goya Quads. I’ve mostly been playing around with fin set ups and finally found the sweet spot with the K4 fins.

Fighting talk…Biggest rival this year has to be Bubble. We have been sailing a lot with each other over the winter, so will be cool to see who comes out on top. Hopefully I will kick some Bubble butt .

Aleksy Gayda

Name: Aleksy Gayda

Sail No: K412

Fleet: Pro men

2012 Results: 15th

Where have you been training? I have been at home working  for the winter

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? A bit of everything, wave riding and jumping and a board sponsor would be nice haha!

Do you think you’ve achieved this? Not yet, have to wait for it to warm up a bit with some good wind and waves.

What competitions will you take part in this year? BWA Rhosneigr and Ireland, then I will have to wait and see how the money is going.

What are you aims for this year? Have fun, sail and surf a lot, plus do as much travelling as possible too.

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year?  No, same as last year.

Jan Sleigh

Name: Jan Sleigh

Sail No: K172

Fleet: Masters

2012 results: 2nd Ireland

Where have you been training? I have not been training – The only training I have done is in the gym and pool for triathlons, I have been doing at lot of SUP too, on the windsurfing side I have been at home in Cornwall at the usual spots and had a trip to Cape Verde.

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? Everything! I always want to improve – that’s what I love about windsurfing

Do you think you’ve achieved this? I guess somethings – others no.

What competitions will you take part in this year? Not sure right now – I would like to do the all but I am so busy these days working, I can’t book that far ahead. Cornwall is the most likely candidate as I won’t have to drive too far!

What are you aims for this year? To have fun, be on the water as much as possible and try and get the best waves the UK throws at us

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? This year I am riding Naish Forces – I am getting on with them super well – loving the power they give me. And I am riding the new Naish Wave Classic 95. It’s an awesome board for me down here in Cornwall. Plenty of float for the gusty rippy conditions in Cornwall but narrow in the tail for carving turns

Fighting talk… Ah I don’t do fighting talk, I am too old for that. But I’d say just have fun and get on the water!

Justin Dennington

Name: Justin Dennington

Fleet: Masters

2012 results: 1st Cornwall Wave Classic

Where have you been training? In the pub with Chucky, as well as Marazion / Gwithian / Bluff

What did you want to improve after 2012 season? Overall wave riding, refine my forwards and maybe learn another jump for 2013.

Do you think you’ve achieved this? Nearly!!

What competitions will you take part in this year? I am hoping to compete in 3 of the 4 rounds this year.

What are you aims for this year? Firstly to mainly enjoy the events, only being my second year I’m still learning how the comps work, I feel I need to improve my competition sailing mentality………..sail it like you stole it!!!!

Have you changed/improved your equipment or equipment choices for this year? Thanks to Puravida I have moved across to Fanatic / North / Ion.

Fighting talk…Hmmm difficult, I thought Andy Heath looked strong in Cornwall last year, and both Dave White and Big Davey Edmiston will be there at the top I’m sure, lets see if we can throw a spanner in the works this year eh!

Chris Murray enjoying his time on the water

Make the most of the summer and getaway to the warmth and sunshine of Greece and Turkey on one of our fantastic last minute beach holidays.

All of our 4* beach club resorts offer delicious club board menus, inclusive activities, inclusive children’s clubs and so much more. So make the most of the Mediterranean sunshine and book your Beachclub holiday today. We have limited availability, so hurry book now.  Plus, book online to save up to an extra 5%!

Our favourite last minute holiday deals:

We always have our favourite beach club destinations and plenty of reasons to book. If you need some inspiration for your summer 2013 beach club holiday then check out our recommended deals.

Prize on offer:

12 Mile Thrill Seeker Helicopter Flight at Cornwall

and

2 hour windsurf lesson (any level) with Chris ‘Muzza’ Murray.

Helicopter trip and lesson with Muzza, could be yours!

Now in its third year, Cornwall Summer Events is offering adventure experiences including fitness bootcamps, sightseeing flights, and falconry experiences, for five weeks only in support of the emergency service, after last year’s events raised almost £13,000.

This year, Hillmotts summer fitness bootcamps will be available over the five weeks from July 26 to August 30 in Falmouth; plus there’ll be the chance to take part in sightseeing flights in one of Adventure 001’s jet-powered helicopters from St Ives; and falconry and clay shooting.

Of course, most importantly for all windsurfers, or those looking to try the sport, Chris Murray will be on hand in St. Ives providing windsurfing lessons for all!

There will also be plenty of fun events planned around the five weeks, for all the family.

The Cornwall Summer Events are all in aid of a great cause too, money from ticket sales is pledged to the Cornwall Air Ambulance; last year almost £13,000 was raised and in 2013 Adventure Events are pledging to raise a minimum of £15,000!

For more information or to make a booking go to www.cornwallsummerevents.co.uk or contact  01753 643 820 or visit www.cornwallairambulancetrust.org

Follow Adventure Events on Twitter and Facebook.

Terms and conditions: The prize must be used between the 1st and 8th August and the helicopter flight up of grabs is the 12mile Thrill Seeker package.  Full details and exclusions viewable here.

To enter the competition answer the question below, closing date 03/03/2013. A winner will be chosen at random from all correct answers and informed by the 05/03/2013.

Chris Murray in Maui

Yo yo yo! Ok so here we go….

My name is Muzz,

I’m gonna try remember my year

but my minds a bit fuzz.

It started in Maui where I stayed with me mate Neil,

My Hawiian cuzz.

I went with Jay Hasey,

Some people say he’s lazy,

It’s not true

He was swimming out there, even when he had flu.

Chris Murray. Image credit GlobalShots.

Globalshots is the first off the blocks

And into the sea,

Taking photos of me

Riding the brand new Tushingham Rocks.

So many epic sessions on the beach,

Maui so juicy like a peach,

Sun so strong my hair it bleach.

So much good surf,

Crashed, got held down, turned blue like a smurf,

Somehow made it back to earth.

Surf’s so much bigger here,

It has some girth,

Shows you what your worth.

Suddenly it’s May and I’m in the car,

On the way,

Passing so many fields full of hay,

We’re heading for Brandon Bay

For the BWA.

Chris Murray in Brandon Bay.

Round one and two

To be honest, I performed pretty poo,

But what can I say it all came so fast,

Think I came near last,

And I cant even blame it on a snapped mast.

It was down to me losing my heat,

Not like you can cheat,

I didn’t sail that well and just got beat.

Next I was off to the hood,

If you haven’t been you really should.

Hood River’s like heaven,

There’s action from seven til eleven.

Chris Murray at Hood River.

Hike, bike, sail and snow,

You really need to go.

It’s my favourite place,

I’m doing a holiday there next year,

Why not come along and have a taste?

It’s something you wont regret,

I’m even willing to put money on that, like a bet.

I did the Pistol River Wave Bash,

Wasn’t too pricy, I didn’t spend too much cash,

Went for some double loops and crashed out.

No doubt it’s a lot of fun,

The AWT were so welcoming to me.

AWT Pistol River Bash

They want to increase their UK numbers,

Maybe get one, two or three

Showing off our British flare,

Come if you dare!

Think I came 13th, not to bad,

But then I had to leave, that was sad.

But when I got home I was glad,

I got a new sponsor, Adventure 001,

Now this was going to be fun!

I spent the summer flying around,

High off the ground

In helicopters, they make a hell of a sound.

They do red letter days for Christmas or birthdays,

They’d be a brilliant present for any time of year,

They might even make you fight your fear

Of heights they do so many different types of flights.

Check them out on the web,

They do more than I’ve said,

Just remember their name in your head!

Then we were off to Tiree,

To get pretty irie.

I was there two weeks and only sailed on five point three.

Chris Murray, looking forward to 2013!

It was so nearly windy, there was a great forecast,

But then it just seemed to fly past,

Think Tiree got bypassed.

But we got sent some good waves,

Which helped us all behave,

Spending some time in a big blue cave.

This was such a great year what could make it better?

May be next year I’ll get to be even wetter!

Image credits John Carter, Jerome Houyvet, GlobalShots, Kevin Pritchard, Tim Smith Visuals and Maui Water Shots. 

Keeping warm in Spartan!

At Spartan we do things differently. All our research and testing is completed in the cold waters of the UK, not in some tropical paradise whose most miserable conditions are still warmer than an average British summer’s day.

Building on 50 years of history and development we have engineered this new range of suits to raise Spartan’s glowing reputation in wetsuit construction to even greater heights.
Using feedback from our sponsored riders and development team we have created wetsuits that give maximum warmth, flexibility and comfort by using only the best construction, materials and features.

All aspects of the new Spartan range of high performance wetsuits have been analysed, tested, checked and double-checked. The attention to detail has been obsessive.

Thanks to this fanatical approach we have managed to achieve:

1. Flexibility and movement to compliment the specific sports.
2. Maximum warmth/comfort in extreme weather conditions

The sign of a good wetsuit is one that allows you to regulate your temperature over a wide range of air and water temperatures. Hence our R and D team tests our suits extensively all year round at home and abroad in the extremes of hot and cold water.

Lets bust a few myths….

The myth that a wetsuit traps a layer of water is an excuse for a badly made suit. All flushing uses valuable energy from the wearer to warm the next water layer up it is not an advantage.

The biggest myth is that double lined neoprene is warm in windchill, the National Physical Laboratory has proven that surface temperatures, and hence chilling, are in force three and above is greatly reduced by single lined neoprene and should be a windsports enthusiasts first line of defence against the cold.

Testimonials

Phil Dobner

Phil Dobner

The Vortex 5/3 is shit compared to sailing in board shorts but if you do have to use a wetsuit this has to be the closest you’re going to get for a 5mm suit! 
I don’t know what Voodoo technology you’ve used on the shoulders and arms but it’s like sailing in a Long John (which I actually quite like, it reminds me of my oppy days) 
I seriously could not feel any restriction on the arms at all, 
have you woven in a thin layer of the all curing rhino horn powder or used plain old Voodoo on the shoulders? 
The 3mm arms and shoulders are such a good idea…

Cheers guys, it let me land my first back loop, whoop whoop,  at 42 as well,  I thought it would never happen..   ( Phil Dobner April 2012 Shoreham beach)

Aron USA

I use a convertible version of their 4mm suit, I think it is.  Frankly, since I got your suit, I don’t use it unless it’s really cold out (in the winter storms, with the arms on).  What I like most of all about your suit versus the Patagonia suit is that it’s built specifically for windsurfing (which the other is built for surfing), and it has the capacity to deflect wind & shed water, which I really like a lot.  The wool in the Patagonia suit makes it a bit too hot as well for me. I run a bit hotter than most people, and so I’m trying to stay a bit more cool, which is another reason I like the sleeves off.  

Those are my thoughts off the top of my head.

Cheers,

Aaron

(August 2012 on the 4/3 convertible)

Martin Downing Aberdeen

see SUPer sunday!
Had some mental waves, but this seems to be the only evidence so far!
I was in your Xdry, toast warm throughout, watched many surfers give up with the cold, I came in at 6 in the dark! (Martin 2012 February)

John Pink and Richard Peacock commenting on the 3/3 Vortex

“Something I was massively amazed by is the steamer that you gave us. I always thought it was a 4 x 3, as I used it all winter and was pretty warm. It wasn’t until not that long ago I read on the sleeve 3 x 3 and was amazed that I had used it all winter when I usually had a 5,3 to do the same job!! ”

Dom Moore Extreme Kitesurfer and Surfer on the 3/3 Vortex

“Loving the Vortex suit, thank you. Since I got it, I’ve been in the sea probably 90% of days, surfing, bodysurfing, getting slammed into the sand, and now more recently that the wind is back, plenty of kitesurfing. It’s definitely a warm suit; I’m into my summer suit a lot earlier than my friends – the 3/3 combo seems very logical for the UK – there are still people here paddling around in gloves and boots though maybe they are a bit misguided! Feels very comfortable too and the neck seal is proving to be very reliable in all sorts of wipeouts. Wrist seals are good and the velcro on the ankles holding great so far, I’m really enjoying this suit for multi-discipline”.

Dom Moore (May 2011)

Corky Kirkman

BRILLIANT MATEY….GOING SWIMMING NOW IN WATERMAN SUIT…..LOVE IT…….TRYING IT ON A S.U.P FROM O’SHEA……SO WILL HIT THAT HARD TOO….K212 CORKY

Peter Hart

Peter Hart and the new XTR

Sorry this has been a bit late  - I got the new XTR winter suit, then the freeze came, then I went to Brazil – anyway  now I’m back and have been out in the weekend gales. The new XTR is quite simply the best winter suit I’ve ever used – in terms of flexibility it feels like a 3/2 and YET it’ toasty.
Great work too on the neck, arm and leg seals. Winter sailing has suddenly become appealing again!

Naomi Dines on her two new Spartan Winter suits

Just wanted to say how fantastic my new Ladies Cyclone 5/4/3 suit has been this winter. I’ve been out in 3 degrees with minus 5 extra windchill, and sea temps of 5 degrees, with only a shortsleeved polypro underneath, (plus hood and gloves) and been able to sail for a couple of hours at a stretch, which is pretty remarkable in a back zip suit, especially for someone just learning to sail in waves and spending plenty of time in the water! It’s also super stretchy and comfortable, especially the new neck, and really easy to get on and off. The lining seems to dry twice as fast as my other neoprene so the suit is dry overnight for the next session, which makes a real difference on the beach.

Adam Sims in the Spartan rigging jacket

Adam Sims K669 – about his first sail in a Spartan Wetsuit in  cold cold cold December 2010

“Hi Guys,

Got out at last, yesterday. Used the Extreme Dry and it rocks! The legs are super warm, in fact the whole thing is, although i felt like i had a mini heater around my legs which was really nice. Once I was sailing I didn’t notice the zip across the shoulders which was cool. Not sure what to say, except it was awesome! Gloves were a little small I think, probably should have gone for the large but no fret.

Hood was super warm.

Really had an awesome session. 3 Hours on the water non stop!! That’s a first for me for this time of the year i think. Didn’t feel cold once, except when rigging (out of the suit).

Cheers for the suits and have a great Christmas,” (Adam Sims K72 Dec 2010)

For more Spartan news keep up to date with them on Boards here, or head to the Spartan website. 

Starboard 2012 Dealer Conference from Tushingham on Vimeo.

And then caught up with the jumping machine that is Boujmaa Guilloul to talk Tahiti, reef tattoos and future plans.

Boujmaa Interview from Tushingham on Vimeo.

It came down to the wire, with the title winner being decided at the very last event; this just goes to show what an abundance of talent the UK and Ireland have produced of late. Any number of the top sailors could have taken the top spot, but it was Jamie Hancock who took the tile win after impressive performances at every event.

At the beginning of the year though it was John Skye who looked in a solid position after coming fourth in Wales and winning Ireland. But as family commitments took over Skyeboy  took himself out of the title race.

Sam Neal

Jack Hunt. Image credit Simon Crowther.

Chris Murray. Image credit Simon Crowther.

The likes of Sam Neal, Jack Hunt, Chris Murray and Andy Chambers performed well throughout the year to earn themselves top 10 positions on the tour, but they couldn’t quite make it into the elusive top five.

Adam Lewis. Image credit Simon Crowther.

John Skye in Ireland. Image courtesy BWA/Dave White.

Andy Bubble Chambers at Rhosneigr. Image credit BWA/Dave White.

Fifth place this year went to Adam Lewis who started off the year with a bang, taking second in Rhosneigr, but despite incredible results on the PWA this year Adam couldn’t quite follow up the success in Ireland or Cornwall.

James Cox. BWA Cornwall. Image credit Simon Crowther.

The starboard tack master James Cox shone in Ireland taking a fourth position, and then managed two better in Cornwall to finish second. Coxy has certainly shown that not competing on the PWA tour is no disadvantage, particularly when conditions like his home break in Bournemouth come through!

Ben Proffitt winner of the Tiree expression session. Image credit BWA/Dave White.

Last years champion Ben Proffitt looked dangerous throughout the year, taking two third positions and a fifth things did not come together quite as Proffitt would have wished this year. Still a stand out sailor in a variety of conditions Proffitt’s sailing is far from slowing down and we are sure he will be back with a vengeance next year.

Phil Horrocks. Image credit Simon Crowther.

It was again exceptionally tight for the final top spot, this time between the Gaastra/Tabou team mates Phil Horrocks and Jamie Hancock. Going into the final event in Cornwall Phil looked to be in a commanding position, but he knew as well as anyone that anything could happen. A very tricky draw for Phil saw him struggle to progress, whilst Jamie dominated his side of the draw. Regardless of draws we are sure all sailors agree, to win you have t beat everyone, and that’s exactly what Jamie did. Congratulations to all pro competitors this year and thank you for putting on a fantastic show.

Jamie Hancock. Tiree 2011 image credit John Carter.

Before we look forward to the 2013 tour Boards catches up with the title winner himself:

Jamie Hancock. Image credit BWA/Dave White.

Name: James Hancock

DOB: 16.09.84

Sail number: K218

Years competing: 10

Best previous results: UK Wavesailing Champion 2009, Indoor jump champion, 9th Klitmoller 2010, PWA Rookie of the year 2011.

Title you have won this year: British Wavesailing Champion

Why and when did you first start competing?

I grew up learning to windsurf with my Dad at Hill Head beach in Lee on the Solent. At the time there were loads of really good windsurfers around like Chris Audsley, Jack Hunt, James Cox and they had all been windsurfing longer; Chris was even competing on the world tour. I was loving windsurfing and wanted to be as good as them and the rest kind of followed by entering junior contests on the Isle of Wight.

How did you get involved with competition?

After going to a junior contest I was hooked. I wanted to make it to the pro event and at the time that was my only goal. After doing a junior contest then coming in and watching the pros was amazing, I couldn’t even have imagined at the time to have made it to that level.

Jamie Hancock. Image credit Si Crowther.

As a kid did you dream of becoming a champion?

Not really. Just wanted to be good enough to sail reef breaks with my friends who were better than me.

Did you love competition straight away?

I liked the events and the people. Competition is something I was quite used to as I already had a sporting background. I played a lot of sports at school and also played squash for Hampshire and had previously travelled the country to some open junior contests. I think I made it to top 20 U19′s in the country when I was 14, that is what I did with most of my time until I got on the water and windsurfing.

What has helped you progress from learning how to compete to winning a title?

I’m not really sure. I have never had a problem competing. My problem is that I think I’m often too reserved in competition and fear mistakes more than going for it, that is something I’m going to work on.

What equipment have you used on the UK tour this year?

I have two Tabou wave boards, and two sets of Gaastra sails. I like to use the Gaastra Pure’s when the waves are a bit smaller and for any onshore and then I like to use the Gaastra Manics for proper wavesailing and stronger winds. I used my manics in Wales and my Pure’s in Ireland and Cornwall.

Jamie Hancock. Image credit Si Crowther.

Why do you use this equipment?

I have been sponsored by Gaastra / Tabou for a eight to nine years and I love the brand, the people but mostly the products. They suit me really well and have never had a bad piece of equipment in all those years.

What is it about your set up in particular that you like?

I really like having two different types of sails, they give me something different and better options for whatever the conditions are. I really love the boards this year too. I have an 80 litre board which is my competition board and that really helps.

Who else would you recommend a set up like this?

Literally anybody that wanted to sail the conditions I do. I wouldn’t recommend it to my Dad because he likes blasting in the solent. The Tabou Da Curves have five fin slots so it allows anybody to have their favorite fin set up, I often change my K4fins around. The sails feel great too but I also know that equipment choice is mainly down to personal preference, what I use is good and I like it, but it can also be good and for people not to like it as much.

Check out the full Pro Quiver feature with Jamie here.

How and where have you trained for the series this year?

Cape Town. That is where the Gaastra / Tabou wave sails development and photoshoots take place so it works out really well. It is port tack and the whole tour is port tack so as a starboard tack sailor I try to be there for as long as possible each year. Ideally I would like to travel to New Zealand and Chile but financially it just isn’t possible.

Jamie Hancock testing in South Africa

Have you just trained on the water, or what do you do off the water too?

I go to the gym quite a bit when I’m at home. I did play a lot of football but I picked up a couple of injuries and decided to give it a bit of a break.

What are your plans for winter?

I plan to be in Cape Town again.

Will you be sailing here in the UK too?

Ross Williams is back and also Timo is around. At them moment I have been on a few trips with JC and those guys. I absolutely love sailing in the UK, it is my favorite time of the year!  I may also head to Ireland before South Africa.

What are you aims for competitions in 2013?

To compete on the World and UK Tours.

Follow more about the BWA tour right here on Boards and on their website http://www.britishwavesailingassociation.com/

A great collection of videos from the Tiree Wave Classic 2012; action from the pros expression session, chat with the top boys and much much more!

DAY 6 WEB – Computer from Jim Puravida on Vimeo.

DAY5WEB – Computer from Jim Puravida on Vimeo.

Tiree Wave Classic Videocast 4 from Jim Puravida on Vimeo.

DAY3WEB – Computer 480 from Jim Puravida on Vimeo.

Video from day two…

Here’s the first instalment: The Journey to Tiree!

With all shots from top photographer John Carter both showcase the talents of incredible riders, in equally incredible locations.

The 2013 Windsurfing Calendar was shot on location at Gnarloo, Margret River, Spreckelsville, Esperence and Maui’s north shore; John Carter takes us on an introspective of today’s world of new school wavesailing.

Victor on the cover

Cue a style clash between windsurfing’s old guard and the progressive lines of the sport’s next generation.

Calendar Specifics:

Size: A3 (297mm x 420mm).

Format: Portrait (ring bound w/ wiro hanger at top).

Paper: 210 GSM.

Printing: Full bleed single side edge to edge digital printing.

View: 14 pages, one month per page + cover & preview page.

Photographer: John Carter.

Sailors: Victor Fernandez, Scott McKercher, Philip Koster, Nik Baker, Iballa Moreno, Ricardo Campello, Ben Proffitt, Levi Siver, Mark Angulo, Jaeger Stone and Keith Teboul.

Locations: Gnarloo, Hookipa, Margret River, Spreckelsville, Esperence and Maui reefs.

New for 2013 is the UK Breaks Calendar, celebrating all that is great about British shores. 

Timo on the cover

Ever wonder why the British Isles continually father some of the finest wave sailors on the planet? Lineage of this calibre isn’t born out of warm water and tropical beaches, it’s forged from the harsh brutality of Atlantic swells, battering low pressures and unforgiving, isolated slabs.

Littered with world class reefs and beach breaks, we blow the lid on what the British Isles really have to offer – Introducing The 2013 UK Windsurfing Calendar.

Showcasing 13 awe inspiring images from windsurfing’s homeland, shot by the lens of John Carter and digitally printed onto super heavy weight paper. The UK’s never looked so good, nor has your wall.

Calendar Specifics:

Size: A3 (297mm x 420mm).

Format: Portrait (ring bound w/ wiro hanger at top).

Paper: 210 GSM.

Printing: Full bleed single side edge to edge digital printing.

View: 14 pages, one month per page + cover & preview page.

UK Breaks Calendar Overview

Photographer: John Carter.

Sailors: Jamie Hancock, James Cox, Paul Hunt, Chris Murray, Andy King,  Timo Mullen, Ross Williams, Phil Horrocks, Ben Proffitt and Ian Black.

Locations: Kimmeridge, Bigbury, Boscomb, Gwithian, Tiree, Ventnor, Sennen + Cornish, Welsh & East Coast Reefs.

Both calendars are available to purchase at http://www.openshutcalendars.com 

If it’s incredible wave shots, from both the UK and abroad you’re looking for, make sure you check out the new Boards Autumn / Winter Wave Annual on sale now!

Peter Hart - “Despite or perhaps even BECAUSE of light winds, this was the best NWF yet. The sun helped, but it was all down to a change in attitude in that it’s always a good day for something!’ On the Friday I did some spontaneous clinic in 5 knots of wind where I took out the 10” 5’ Starboard Drive and a 5.7m Edge and suddenly there were 30 people out on the water all on WindSups having a blast AND learning.

Great effort from all the team both on and off the water. In the relay team Tush 2 may have been able to beat Team Tush 1 (or Team Sills as they can also be known) had Muzza not headed off to the Isle of Wight, but he did redeem himself later by looping the Futura in 12 knots of wind!”

Chris Murray looping at NWF

Sam Sills: “Best event of the year! The highlight for me has to be all the Night windsurf action followed by the legendary NWF party!  Cant wait for next year!! Thanks so much to everybody behind the scenes to make it possible, and a special thanks to Tushingham and Starboard for their support, I couldn’t have done it with out them!”

Chris ‘Muzza’ Murray: The NWF this year was epic and the fact there wasn’t much wind made for an awesome weekend. The sailing fun as well as a challenge to get round the course having to pump forever trying to beat your m8s working every little bit of speed out of the boards. And of course it was super hot weather so it brought lots of people to the beach in bikinis, which is always nice to see haha!! I loved doing the run bike paddle board even though George beat me was a lot of fun, my low point of the weekend was not getting picked for the team 15 relay race two years running, I think they know how bad I am at racing! It was also a great event for meeting all your friends having loads of fun and having a brilliant party too with dance off’s and crowd surfing, brilliant! I really hope we can be back next year.

Check out the reports from the rest of the Tushingham team here. 

Chris Muzza Murray ar NWF

Chris ‘Muzza’ Murray is one of the best ambassadors for the sport we have ever met with his endless enthusiasm and never ending search for action both on and off the water. We thought we would catch up with him at this years NWF and find out what makes him tick.

Tushingham are urging you to vote for their team rider, Chris Murray, and have launched a brilliant competition to win one of of Murray’s old Rocks if you vote for him. Check out all the information below and cast your vote now at www.redbullstormchase.com

In total 140 riders from 33 countries applied to participate in the Red Bull Storm Chase from the beginning of May until the end of June. 50 of them have been nominated for the online voting stage by windsurfing legend Robby Naish and his expert companions – PWA Head Judge Duncan Coombs and leading windsurfing photographer John Carter. “We were blown away by the high level and band of sailors: prominent professionals like Victor Fernandez, Ricardo Campello and Philip Köster registered as well as hot-shot amateurs and promising rookies“, said Coombs. “This was definetely not an easy choice. Big thanks to all the riders who registered.” Now it is your turn to select the ones you want to see competing. The voting is open until July 15^th. Just visit www.redbullstormchase.com and login using your Facebook account. You have ten votes in total, but only one per rider. Make your choice now!

British and Irish Boys in the Top 50 and needing your vote are: 

Chris Murray

Adam Lewis

Ben Proffitt

Timo Mullen

Phil Horrocks

Robby Swift

Dan Gardner

Mikey Clancy

John Skye

Jamie Hancock

Some of the top PWA competitors also in the Top 50:

Phillip Koester

Marcillio Browne 

Daniel Bruch

Ricardo Campello

Levi Siver

Full results: *1st Levi Siver, 2nd Bernd Roediger, 3rd Morgan Noireaux.

AWT Pistol River Wave Bash 2012 – Day One from American Windsurfing Tour on Vimeo.

AWT Pistol River Wave Bash 2012 – Day Two from American Windsurfing Tour on Vimeo.

Chris Murray at Hood River.

Britain’s Chris ‘Muzza’ Murray finished a 11^th position, we’re awaiting some final words from Muzz, but here’s his report from Day two…

Day two here at the Pistol River Wave Bash and we had a lot smaller waves and slightly less wind. Day two was the youth, masters, ams and ladies double elimination day and with a final heat of the pros single at the end.

Here in America they are starting them young, standing out in the ladies was Fiona, and in the pro’s Bernd, who are both 15 year old! In the pros single final Bernd narrowly lost to Levi Siver by just a few points pulling a sick one handed backie, beating all the season pros easily to get second place. Fiona was pushing the ladies going for some crazy forwards, brilliant stuff!

Ingrid Larouche

Another stand out of the day was Ingrid, winning the ladiess and pushing Chris Freeman out of second place in the amateurs, scoring herself two podium finishes.

You can watch all the AWT heats here on the AWT heats website.

Facebook album Day Two

Facebook album Day Three

Facebook album Day Four

 Click number two for Muzza’s day one report…