Just like when you are holding up a kid’s jumper that is clearly too big for the child it is intended for, the temptation when investing in your first lot of windsurfing equipment is to think, ‘I’ll grow into it’.

But according to Sam that is the worst thing you can do…..

Beginner board

It used to be the basic rule of thumb that the newer you were to the sport, the longer the board you needed. Now it is all about width, volume and reserve volume (we will come to that in a moment…)

Sam, who is an RYA Windsurfing Instructor says, significant advances in kit development over the past five to six years means you are now able to get more out of your ‘starter’ kit for longer, as the wider boards provide greater stability and can better handle a much bigger wind range as well as skill range .

That pattern continues as you move up through your intermediate levels before the kit starts becoming more discipline specific the more advanced your skills become.

Windsurfing is easier now than it has ever been.

So, size does matter? Sam provides his top tips on what to look for when buying a board.

For a beginner take your body weight in kilograms and then add about 20kg, which typically accounts for your wetsuit, rig and board.

That figure will give you the amount of volume needed in the board to float you as one litre will float one kilo. Once you have that figure, double it. That will give you a good amount of ‘reserve volume’ which will add sufficient stability to help you in the early stages.

The more volume you have the more stable you will be and the better you will float.

For example if you weight 80kgs, when you factor in reserve volume, your starter board should be about 200 litres, 60kgs would be 160 litres etc.

Minnis Bay Windsurfing Club – beginners Elaine and Lisa get ready

Once you start progressing into intermediate level, where you may have completed a Start Windsurfing course and are going a bit faster or are maybe using a harness, a board 40-60 litres in volume will likely be more suitable.

That volume recommendation drops to 20-40l for higher level intermediates, this will still give enough volume for uphauling but the board will be better suited for stronger winds.

After that optimum board volume largely depends on what discipline you are doing, for example you would probably add 5-10 litres for freestyle or lose about the same for wave.

Whatever you are doing it is all about having enough volume to float you sufficiently.

A board for planing conditions, with a good sized fin to generate some lift, but not too much, for our light weight sailor.

Things like the developments in rigs that can cope in wider wind ranges and the introduction of boards having more than one fin have all contributed to the fact that boards can now be shorter and more manageable in a wider range of conditions.

Having more than one fin means you can expand the range of a board as the size of the fin should marry up with the size of the sail.

This also ties into the conditions – a bigger fin for light airs as they generate greater lift and lateral resistance and smaller fin for when it is windier to stay flatter – whereas previously you may have gone out and bought another board altogether for the different conditions.

You have to feel comfortable in the full range of conditions with whatever you are sailing. If you start finding it harder to control the board in rougher conditions and/or higher winds, for example, it is probably time to start thinking about getting a less voluminous board.

Mark Hosegood, on a smaller board designed for more advanced riders

But do not look at it as a one-board solution; investing in a smaller board does not mean you should get shot of your bigger board.

Your first board can still be a fantastic, advanced piece of kit in light winds. Many Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) now have windsurfing fittings as well so give you the ultimate light wind compromise with or without a sail. Just take your paddle with you where you go!

The most important thing in all of this is making sure you can spend as much time on the water as possible. The better you get, the more you want to progress and learn new stuff, and that comes back to making sure you have the right board to start it all off with.

To find out more about getting started in windsurfing and RYA Windsurfing training courses visit www.rya.org.uk

 Love Windsurfing?  Then why not join the association that promotes and protects, safe, successful and rewarding British windsurfing.  Join today and support the RYA in protecting your rights and freedoms.  Take advantage of free advice and support on a wide range of windsurfing topics; enjoy free third party insurance, as well as a fantastic range of personal member offers.  Find out more by calling 0844 556 9556, email member.services@rya.org.uk or visit www.rya.org.uk

The books in the RYA Go! series are renowned for their excellent illustrations, easy reading style and engaging content which make them particularly appealing to children aged 7 – 12 and RYA Go Windsurfing! is no exception.

The book takes readers from where to start and how to rig up their board, to learning to steer and starting to race, as well as covering all the important elements children need to know to stay safe while out windsurfing in a clear and entertaining manner. There is also an informative section at the back which explores some amazing windsurfing facts like who invented windsurfing and how fast can a windsurfer go?

The foreword is written by British Sailing Team and Olympic Bronze medallist Bryony Shaw who says: “I hope that this brilliant book will help young people learn everything about windsurfing so that you can have even more fun racing, doing freestyle tricks or just enjoy being out on the water.”

When talking about writing the book author Claudia comments: “I got wetter researching RYA Go Windsurfing! than all the other watersports put together but it was huge fun.

“The book is designed to take readers on a journey right through the windsurfing education from the early falling-in stages up to the moment it just clicks and the board takes off!”

RYA Go Windsurfing! is perfect for children wanting to become involved in the sport, helping the reader progress through all four stages of the RYA Youth Windsurfing Scheme (Youth Stage, 1, 2, 3, and 4), after which you can progress into the racing scheme, which the book also briefly discusses.

Purchase a copy of RYA Go Windsurfing! from the RYA Shop before 30 June 2013 (all back orders will be automatically included) and you will be entered into a free prize draw to win a one-off painting by the book’s author Claudia Myatt.  Taking your favourite ‘on-the-water’ photo, Claudia will turn it into a one-off painting especially for you.

The prize draw will close on 30 June 2013 and a winner will be selected at random by the RYA Publications team.

To find out more about RYA Go Windsurfing! and to purchase your copy visit RYA Go Windsurfing! You can also follow RYA Publications on Twitter at @RYAPublications

Other titles in the Go! series include:  RYA Go Cruising!, RYA Go Sailing!, RYA Go Green!, RYA Go Inland! RYA Go Sailing Activity Book and RYA Go Cruising Activity Book.  Visit the RYA Shop – Children’s Books for more information on these great titles.

Love Windsurfing?  Then why not join the association that promotes and protects, safe, successful and rewarding British windsurfing.  Join today and support the RYA in protecting your rights and freedoms.  Take advantage of free advice and support on a wide range of windsurfing topics; enjoy free third party insurance, as well as a fantastic range of personal member offers.  Find out more by calling 0844 556 9556, email member.services@rya.org.uk or visit www.rya.org.uk

Axbridge at Champions Cup

The Axbridge Animals are certainly no strangers to the Team15 Champions Cup. They have been lucky enough to qualify for the national final five years in a row, making it onto the podium in 2012 just behind current T15 Champions, the Hythe Hotshots.

Head coach, Mark Smith aka Smudge, believes it’s not just the trophies but the ‘buzz’ that youngsters get from windsurfing, that keeps them coming back each year.

“From the moment they get out of the car, to the moment they leave the club, the kids are taking about windsurfing. They are mad for it. When they get off the water you see how much they are buzzing” he explains.

The ‘Animals’ train once a week at Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club with team members travelling from all round the area to take part.  “We have up to 30 T15 windsurfers on the books at the moment and usually on a Thursday we will have about 20 to coach. Luckily along with myself there are seven other T15 coaches!” said Smudge.

“We train every Thursday night for two hours with windsurfers aged 8 to 15 of all abilities. At first kids just want to get out there and have a go, but more often than not they end up hooked and very quickly progress their skill, moving onto more technical kit and larger sail sizes. We have seen a quite a few members of the Axbridge Animals starting at just eight years old who have ended up windsurfing as part of the RYA National squad.”

Smudge believes that although it’s hugely important to encourage the youngsters to improve, the main thing is that they enjoy their sport. “One of the best things about windsurfing is that there is always something new to learn, whatever your ability”.

With such well-structured training in place, it’s no surprise that Axbridge are keen participants in the Team15 Inter-Club Championship.

The Axbridge Animals

Do the Axbridge Animals plan to dominate again in this year’s competition? Smudge believes that it’s all to play for. “Obviously we’d love a repeat performance but this year it’s massively open. It’s great to see new teams joining us in the South Zone and it really opens the competition!

The South Zone Team15 Inter-Club Championship kicked off in in Weymouth with event 1 this weekend (Saturday 05 May) where the Axbridge Animals finished top at the Official Test Centre (OTC).

Zoe Bassett

Eleven year old Zoe Bassett is playing a big part in supporting the team throughout the season as part of her role as a Team15 Ambassador.

“I think we have tough competition in our zone especially with the Oxford Zoomers and the Hythe Hotshots who are current champions, but we train hard every Thursday and our coaches are lots of fun”.

Zoe is one of the many youngsters who have progressed through the Team15 programme into the RYA Zone Squad. As a T15 ambassador, she helps advise the other members of the Axbridge Animals about the RYA Pathway.

Zoe also thinks that windsurfing is a special sport for young people because of the socialising. “It doesn’t matter how good you are, you can still enjoy windsurfing! You meet lots of young people and go to places you wouldn’t normally go to and try something different. I am really excited to be a Team15 Ambassador because I want to help promote the sport so other youngsters can enjoy it too.”

Smudge said: “We are delighted to have Zoe as an ambassador. She is fantastic at talking to other kids about the sport and even if Zoe gets just one other person involved, it will be worth it”.

For those who are have turned 15, at Axbridge there are also plenty of opportunities to join in.

“We encourage the older kids to stay on and help with coaching, giving tips to the younger members. A lot of them come along with their siblings and help with kit as well as startline tips and techniques. There are also opportunities for older members to become Assistant Instructors. That’s the best thing about the windsurfing, there are so many goals, no matter what level you are at” he concluded.

T15 was set up by the RYA to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grass roots level. Fun and informal training sessions take place at T15 clubs all over the country for kids up to the age of 15, which are run weekly by specialist RYA coaches.

For more information about Team15 and locate your nearest local club visit www.team15.org.uk or contact the RYA 0845 345 0400.

To find out how to become involved with the Axbridge Animals  either as a volunteer or a participant contact Claire Rodgers on 07714 468181

So often you don’t actually realise the last time you sailed at the end of a season is when your kit commonly gets stowed away at the back of the garage on the off-chance it might still get another outing that year.

What that means is all too often boards and rigs hibernate all winter having had no final wash down, while sails are less than lovingly stored away and masts and booms dumped. It’s not just salt that does the damage; kit used on inland waters need as much love too.

Sarah Cartwright is an RYA Windsurf Instructor, Race Coach and Team15 project support officer. She gives us the lowdown on what you should be looking out for when you’re thinking about getting out for the first blast of the season to blow off the cobwebs.

WHAT’S YOUR WETSUIT AND HARNESS LIKE – At the end of the season make sure it’s clean and dry before stashing it away, otherwise you’ve no idea how many holes or other nasties you may find before you go to use it for the first time

ROOF RACK CHECK – if you’re going cart your board around on the top of the car make sure the rack bars, screws and roof straps aren’t rusty and liable to give way at 70mph!

Boards, is your one ready?

PRE-SEASON KIT MOT – make a checklist and go through at home to ensure everything is in good working order before you go afloat. By the time you’re at the water for the first time, if you do find something is broken or missing, it could be a wasted journey.

Any expense or effort expended now will be nothing in comparison to getting caught out if your kit breaks in the middle of a lake, or off a beach, and there’s no rescue cover or anyone around to help you.

How would you get yourself, your board, rig and sail safely back to shore in those circumstances? Bear in mind most breakages are likely to occur when there is a lot of pressure going through it, ie it’s windy! That’s not going to make getting ashore any easier. Not to mention the ribbing from your mates once you do make it back!

1)    Board

• Deck plate – check it’s in working order, still fits properly into the mast track and the mechanisms engage securely
• If you have a moving mast track check it’s clear
• Universal joint (UJ) – if it’s rubber this could deteriorate and becomes weaker over the winter. If it’s one with a hinge joint ensure they still have the rotation and movement required. If your UJ gives way when you’re afloat, the mast and board will come apart. Then you’re in trouble!
• Apply lubricant spray to the fin bolt and the threads in the fin, making sure it still fits properly. This applies to all fins you might use through the season
• Footstraps – ensure there’s no corrosion on the screws and they are fitted securely
• If using a daggerboard check the slot flushers to ensure they are still secure and in place

Sails, ropes, and more; all worth checking!

2)    Sail / rig

• Mastfoot/Extension
  • First thing to check is the pulleys for signs of rust or corrosion. If there are signs put it in warm soapy water whist checking the rest of your equipment
  • Once soaked rinse it off and dry, removing any significant rust with a wire brush ensuring they have their full movement. If using lubricant ensure it doesn’t go onto the pulley directly as the rope won’t have anything to grip when applying downhaul
  • Also check the cleats are clean and free of corrosion
  • Ensure the UJ release lever/button is moving freely and the cleats are clear
  • If using an extension, ensure you can easily adjust its length and lock in place, ensuring the bottom of your mast is clean and clear to allow your mast or mast foot to fit in easily
• Ropes – they may look ok when you first get them out but if they have dried out over the winter they are likely to be more prone to fraying. If in doubt it’s worth changing them for a few pounds rather than potentially having an accident!
• Harness lines – check the lines for signs of wear. It’s also important to check the velcro and webbing, which attaches it to the boom
• Boom – check the boom clamp and rope are working okay and the length of the boom can be easily adjusted.
• Uphaul – it’s essential it’s attached securely and not showing signs of wear

3)    Kit bag/Tool Box – have you got the screwdrivers you need, your easy rig, knife and a way to burn the ends of the rope? Have you got the spares and tools for things you’re most likely to need?

Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security with any of this – your kit may look ok at the start of the season but a winter of corrosion and unattended wear and tear is inevitably going to have caused bits to weaken. Keep an eye throughout the season and if something is starting to look a bit tired replace it or at least make sure you have a spare.

Prevention is always better than cure so at the end of a session give your kit the attention it deserves for having given you an awesome time on the water! After every season give everything a once over to save yourself time, ensuring everything is put away clean and dry, making a list of what needs or may need replacing soon. That way come the start of the following season, getting out on the water for the first time will be a lot smoother!

The sun shines and it’s windsurfing time again!

The sun has peeked a couple of times from behind the snow clouds now and the less hardy of us may just be considering dusting off our windsurfing gear for the first time this year.

But just as you would get your kit up-to-speed to get the most out of your time on the water, you shouldn’t overlook what you can do to make sure your body is equally ready to really optimise the time and physical impact of your windsurfing this year.

RYA Physiotherapist, Matt McGovern, looks at the simple things you can do to make sure you don’t spend the summer nursing niggles or watching on frustrated from the shore.

Windsurfing is an extremely physical sport. It requires significant cardiovascular fitness and the full range of body movements from toe to head.

Windsurfers are continuously on it; there are very few off periods during a sail and as the wind changes so do the demands on the body. Lighter winds equal more exerted pumping, while when the wind gets up the focus switches more too muscular strength and endurance.

Many of the actions in windsurfing are the exact opposite to things we do in everyday life and windsurfers are in a half-squat position for much of the time, on an unstable platform, meaning balance is never split 50:50 between each leg.

A good aerobic base is really important as injuries happen when you’re getting fatigued, so the better your cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength and endurance, the longer you can windsurf without tiring and the less likely you are to pick up injuries.

Nick Dempsey in action. Olympic windsurfers are some of the fittest sports people around.

Because it is a repetitive movement sport, we see lots of muscle imbalance and overuse injuries. So what can you do to get fit to windsurf?

Cycling – a lot of the top windsurfers, like London 2012 silver medallist Nick Dempsey, are big cycling fans because it uses the same main leg muscles groups – quadriceps and hamstrings – as you need to hold a constant squat position in windsurfing. It’s also excellent for aerobic fitness.

Rowing – is a really good cardiovascular work-out but it also replicates the windsurfing actions of pushing with the legs and pulling with the arms.

Swimming – is non-weight bearing but it’s a full body sport, like windsurfing, and the rotational element of freestyle and backstroke especially produce very similar trunk movements to windsurfing.

Weights and exercises – pulling and extension-orientated weights and exercises using the full body. Try to do exercises that use the opposite arm and leg at the same time, to replicate the balance needed in windsurfing. The best exercises for each person will be prescriptive for them, but generally lateral pulls, single leg squats, and planks are all good.

Gym training, credit Richard Langdon

You’ve done the legwork to get fit, but even though you may feel raring to go there are still a few things to consider to really get you physically ready before you go afloat.

Get a good breakfast inside you before you head out. Bananas, porridge, anything that’s going to slowly release energy during the day, and also make sure you’re hydrated well. Hydration is absolutely critical.

Being sufficiently fuelled and hydrated are really important in delaying fatigue, and as we’ve already noted, injuries are more likely to occur when you’re getting tired.

It’s not easy taking supplies onto the water but slip a few quick release energy gel sachets into your buoyancy aid to keep you going when you’re afloat. If you do have a small bag, nutritional energy bars are good too.

No-one’s expecting you to do a full 30 minute shore side yoga routine before you go afloat but doing five minutes of mobility exercises and stretches is definitely a good idea.

The most common windsurfing injuries are lower back pain, shoulder strains and overuse injuries and tightness in the wrists and forearms, which comes from gripping the boom.

To warm up wrists and forearms ‘prayer stretches’ and flexing the joints will just get things loosened, while things like arm circles, hip rotation, arm extensions and knee bends will warm up the main joint groups. Remember, windsurfing is a head to toe sport, so start at the head and work your way down to make sure you don’t forget anywhere.

The first 10 minutes of a session, when you’re sailing out, should also be used as a warm-up opportunity. Go through a number of tacks and gybes and do some light pumping to gradually elevate your heart rate and warm your whole body up.

Gym training, credit Richard Langdon

Its sheer physical nature makes windsurfing a great sport for being really fit.

The key to getting increasingly fit is being able to delay the onset of fatigue, meaning you can work harder for longer.

There are loads of drills you can do afloat to challenge yourself. Factor in things like long upwind or downwind legs to give you scope to increase pumping and do lots and lots of tacks and gybes. Do longer sessions or intense short, sharp sessions to the point of fatigue.

You can also work in certain heart rate zones. The most intense periods in any windsurfing race, where you’re working at 90-100% of maximum heart rate, is off the start line or at mark roundings. That can only be maintained for four or five seconds. However, you can improve your ‘anaerobic threshold’ – the point of exhaustion – by planning drills during which you work at 70-80 and 80-90% of your maximum heart rate.

Like warming up, cooling down is really important in injury prevention.

Your sail in is your first chance to let your body gradually return to normal then priority number one once ashore is rehydrate and have something to eat. Ideally you would do some passive stretching – holding stretches for 30 seconds – straight off the water, but if you did a thorough stretch off later that evening that would be okay.

The most important thing is to keep it simple!

There are so many little things you can do on and off the water to make sure you stay fit to windsurf and really enjoy whatever Mother Nature may decides to throw at us this year!

Matt McGovern – in action at RYA Dinghy Show

Love Windsurfing?  Then why not join the association that promotes and protects, safe, successful and rewarding British windsurfing.  Join today and support the RYA in protecting your rights and freedoms.  Take advantage of free advice and support on a wide range of windsurfing topics; enjoy free third party insurance, as well as a fantastic range of personal member offers.  Find out more by calling 0844 556 9556, email member.services@rya.org.uk or visit www.rya.org.uk

Getting started

These are some of the common misconceptions held up as ‘daunting’ reasons why potential newcomers to the sport never go any further than thinking it might be a cool pastime reflects Amanda Van Santen, RYA Chief Instructor, Dinghy and Windsurfing.

There are arguably more routes than ever before into taking those first tentative steps on to a board, yet the common reasons not to remain all too well-worn.

Amanda and Gillian Wright, RYA National Windsurfing Development Officer, make it their raison d’être to explain to the population at large –adults and kids – why these ‘reasons’ are nothing more than myths.

Here Amanda and Gillian provide their top tips on getting started in the sport.

At the very earliest point of thinking you may like to learn to windsurf, have a look at the Where’s My Nearest section of the RYA website. You may have already decided that there can’t possibly be anywhere local to you cater for windsurfing as you live in the middle of the country or the middle of nowhere. But there are some 250 RYA Training Centres running windsurfing courses in Britain and overseas so chances are you actually won’t have to travel too far at all. The RYA Start Windsurfing course is for adults and Windsurfing Stage 1 is for juniors.

Amanda Van Santen

Not at the start anyway. RYA Training Centres can provide you with all the kit and equipment you need including a wetsuit. The only things you may need are something for your feet and your own swimsuit. A common mistake is newcomers buy equipment that’s not appropriate for them, either too big and they progress off of very quickly, or too advanced, which hampers progression. We recommend not even thinking about investing in your own equipment until you reach Intermediate course level.

The language specific to windsurfing can be baffling and off-putting to an outsider. A key part of our Instructor training is they are taught to keep language simple so people can understand it, the same language is then as you continue to progress throughout the whole scheme.

We try to get people on to the water as soon as possible. There is a bit of simulated activity on shore to start with but one of the great things about windsurfing is pretty much everyone can go in a straight line by the end of session one. Windsurfing is about technique, which is why size, age, gender etc. don’t matter and you can improve pretty quickly. At the end of a two-day course people generally can get up and move on the board, sail across the wind, downwind, upwind, tack, gybe and understand how to put the kit together. Seeing quick improvements is really motivating for people to keep on wanting to get better.

NWF, the perfect place to catch up with other windsurfers.

Like with any sport the more you do it the better you will get more quickly. Most RYA training centres and windsurfing clubs have a ‘pay and play’ facility to hire kit and get out on the water. Many centres offer ‘pay and play’ discounts for students on their training courses, to encourage them to practice, while others are aligned with windsurfing clubs where people can get discounted hire. When practicing new techniques, stay in a comfortable Force 1-3. People don’t realise how much conditions can affect ability to learn.

Gillian Wright – Team15 champs cup 2011

Windsurfing is a massively social sport, even right from the start. There is a lot more fun to have if there are a few of you, so you can learn and progress together. People of all ages are much more likely to continue with a sport if they have an emotional and social attachment with it. Hook up with like-minded people in your area.  Find a club or group via the RYA (www.rya.org.uk) or Project Windsurf-UK (www.projectwindsurfuk.org.uk) websites or if you’re 15 or under look for your nearest Team15 club. This is one front on which Team15 has been so successful; the emphasis is on being part of a club with your mates.

When the time comes to buy your own kit and equipment make sure you get the right stuff you need for you to be comfortable on the water. Learning can be made easy by taking RYA courses, either locally or on holiday overseas, where all the equipment is provided and suitable for your level. When you’re progressing the kit you can hire will be appropriate to your standard, and change as you progress. But get it wrong when buying your own and you could stop yourself wanting to go! Start with a good fitting wetsuit and buoyancy aid; if you are warm and comfortable then you will want to go more. Buying your own board and sail will help you get out more often. Get good advice before you invest depending on budget.

Take time to think about your options with windsurfing equipment.

Learn how to put your board on your roof rack securely. It’s quite simple, but only if you know how. If you don’t have a car, can’t drive or don’t have sufficient storage, don’t stop let that stop you buying your own kit. Some clubs and centres offer storage for a small fee.

A badly rigged sail can hinder progress. If you buy from a centre or shop, they will show you how. If you buy second-hand ask the seller or a more experienced windsurfer to show you. Someone in your windsurfing group can help you.

Do I need to say more!

Find out more about RYA Windsurfing training courses at www.rya.org.uk

Windsurfing at NWF

Love to Windsurf?  Then why not join the association that supports you?

Join the RYA today and benefit from:

• Free third party insurance
• Representing your interests and defending your rights of navigation
• Personal advice and information on a wide range of windsurfing related topics
• Free sail numbers for Gold Members
• Legal advice on buying, selling and other windsurfing related matters
• The latest news delivered to your door or inbox by RYA magazine and e-newsletters
• Boat show privileges including free access to the exclusive RYA member’s lounge
• Discounts on a wide range of products and services

Get more from your boarding; support the RYA

Want to know more?  Call 0844 556 9556 or email member.services@rya.org.uk or join online at www.rya.org.uk/go/join

New to windsurfing? Find out more about getting into the sport in the Basics section here. 

RS:X Youth Racing in Dublin

With over 350 competitors entered and ready to embark on the RYA’s premier youth racing event of 2013, the biggest entry the event has ever seen whilst hosted at Largs Sailing Club, event organisers are urging sailors, volunteers and everyone attending the regatta to come prepared with the weather in mind and to pack cold weather clothing and the correct sailing attire.

Parents and competitors are asked to plan their journeys well in advance and to take extra care when travelling to Scotland.

The current weather forecast for next week is for a light North Easterly wind but with temperatures remaining low for the first part of the regatta. RYA event organisers are asking sailors and volunteers to come prepared as it is intended to complete the full schedule of races across the five days of racing.

RYA Volvo National Youth Squad sailors are reminded that they receive a generous discount from the RYA Youth Racing Programmes official clothing supplier Henri Lloyd who have a quiver of clothing which will enable sailors to perform in the most extreme conditions and keep parents and volunteers warm and comfortable afloat and ashore.

Duncan Truswell, RYA Youth Racing Manager, commented: “The conditions up in Largs are improving all the time, the forecast looks increasingly benign and we are really looking forward to delivering a great event, witnessing some quality racing at one of the UK’s finest venues.”

Tim Hall, RYA Competitions Manager, added: “The safety and wellbeing of competitors and volunteers going afloat is our highest priority, but as the primary purpose of the event is to select sailors to represent GBR in international teams, we expect people to come prepared to race despite low temperatures. We will be planning to race in the prevalent conditions, which on the basis of current forecasts is likely to include low temperatures and therefore we urge everyone coming to Largs to dress appropriately.”

Racing will be held for boys in Laser Standards, girls and boys in Laser Radials and Neil Pryde RS:X 8.5 windsurfers, and for all-boy, all-girl or mixed crews in 420s, 29ers and Spitfire catamarans.

The RYA Youth Racing programme receives generous support from title sponsor Volvo Car UK and official clothing supplier Henri Lloyd. As part of their support for the annual event Henri Lloyd are sponsoring the Volunteers reception during the regatta and giving away some fantastic prizes during the RYA Youth National Championships. Keep an eye out on Facebook for more information and competition details.

For more information on the 2013 RYA Youth National Championships please visit theevent website, ‘Like’ us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Kieran Martin

Now 10 years later, despite being rated as one of the world’s most promising young talents and having multiple junior and youth level World medals to his name, Kieran can still recall the excitement and adventure he felt that very first time he got off and running alone.

It’s a feeling that is replicated across the country by hundreds of rookie youngsters every year and it’s the reason windsurfing is more popular and accessible than ever for kids.

“I was a bit wobbly to start with!” the 2010 Youth Olympics bronze medallist admits, “But the feeling of going alone for the first time was really good. There are so many gains you can then make really quickly; it just made me want to keep learning right from the start.”

There were almost 750 entrants nationwide in last year’s Team15 (T15) Inter-Club Championship and these are just the youngsters who wanted to take part in the racing. There were many more young windsurfers, either new to the sport or more interested in exploring freestyle and wave routes who also enjoy weekly sessions at one of over 80 T15 clubs in Britain.

Team 15 racing

There is little doubt that T15, set up by the RYA in 2001 to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grassroots level, continues to play a massive part in opening up more doors for kids to discover a windsurfing lifestyle.

But fundamentally kids have got to want to do the sport in the first place.

So what is it about windsurfing which captures the imagination of youngsters like Kieran Martin, Izzy Hamilton, the Sills family and George Shillito, Team15 graduates who are all now doing amazing things internationally in racing, freestyle and wave.

Sam Ross is one of the country’s top windsurf instructors and a T15 coach. He says over the past two years the biggest demand he’s had has been from kids. He’s in no doubt as to why.

“For sporty kids windsurfing’s a great sport, but for non-sporty kids it’s just as great. You may think you have a nervous group to start with but within an hour they’re throwing themselves about and the confidence, fearlessness and banter just comes out of them.

“Windsurfing is one of the few sports they can be fully independent really quickly. In other sports, like rowing, dinghy sailing or team sports, you always have an instructor with you or teammates around you. But very quickly on a windsurfing board they can be up and running completely on their own. The sense of achievement is massive. You can see how happy they are, and how much they are absolutely loving it the first time they get going on their own.

“The best thing is by the end of a one hour session, they are all doing it. There is no end game when you first start; it’s not about how fast or far you can go, the achievement just comes from standing up and moving, wherever they end up on the water.”

Team 15 fun and games!

Sam backs up Kieran’s experience, that once you get going that first time there are then loads of little steps to improve really early – things like introducing a turn, changing feet position to balance better and adjusting the rig position to go upwind or downwind. Tiny steps in the great scheme of things but each one a massive motivating achievement.

Sam believes the most important thing when first introducing youngsters to the sport is not getting hung up on the right terminology but allowing them to familiarise themselves with the kit and get a feel for it all first and foremost. This includes carrying the board and sails, standing on the board and trying to balance it, then gradually drip-feeding in the names of the different parts. It’s learning through the experience rather than making it feel like school.

He believes that the developments in kit has also made a massive difference in attracting kids to, and keeping them involved in, the sport in recent years.

Sam adds: “When I first learned to windsurf 15 years ago I learned on small adult kit. I remember it being the hardest sport I’d ever tried! The only thing that kept me involved was the enthusiasm of my instructor.

“Now the kit is so much lighter and there are specific boards and sails depending on the size and experience of a child. All centres and schools have realised the value of having this kit and invested accordingly. All kids are now learning on kids’ kit. I’m blown away by the number of kids windsurfing at such an advanced level at such a young age now.”

That ‘advanced level’ can be in racing, freestyle or wave; once a youngster’s grasped the basics and developed a passion for the sport, the world’s their oyster. Windsurfing also becomes a viable career option as you can be become an Assistant Instructor at 14 and an instructor at 16, meaning you can earn pocket money doing the thing you love!

Team 15, a great place for all windsurfing youngsters

Gillian Wright is the RYA’s National Windsurfing Development Officer and a driving force behind T15 since its inception.

She says: “Team15 has always looked to ensure windsurfing skills of all descriptions are nurtured, providing children with a good foundation in the sport, allowing them to take their windsurfing in whichever direction they wanted. It’s fantastic to see the youngsters progressing from Team15 to succeed in a variety of windsurfing disciplines. Whatever they go on to do, we hope that they will continue to windsurf long after their Team15 days.”

Look at the face of any youngster stepping on to a windsurfing board for the first time this summer and you would think that here is a pretty good chance…….

For more information about Team15 and to locate your nearest local club visit www.team15.org.uk or contact the RYA 0845 345 0400.

First up Boards caught up with one of the Team15 teams to watch out for, The Kielder Kestrels as well as BWA youth competitor looking to mix it up with the amateurs this year,Liam Ellis.

Of course the big news this week is that you can now pre-order the Boards Spring Summer 2013 edition – which will hit shelves, or your doorstep, on the 28th March.

We also had the latest edition of the Freestyle Secrets: part three – remember you can also check out parts one and two in the technique section of the website here.

Victor Fernandez in Shoreham - in the news this week one of the World’s top wave sailors, some say the one man that could take the title from Koester, was on British shores hanging out with Nik Baker.

Hayling Island slalom is starting very soon, a little further afield Fanatic have announced further coaching dates in Lanzarote. Another option if you’re looking to head away is to take the ferry, with routes to Ireland and more Stena Line are a great travel option, particularly as at the moment they are running a kids travel for free package!

Boards also has a new video only section on the homepage – currently located just below the news, all videos will appear in this separate section, so if you’re looking for the latest videos to hit the windsurfing world make sure you continue down past the news! Top videos this week are: Ant Baker showing his slalom style and up and coming racer Tom Wells going full speed ahead.

Until next week….

Team 15 race action at the Champions Cup

The Coates family, together with other keen windsurfers at Kielder Water Sailing Club, were keen to develop their own T15 club at Kielder having previously been involved with rival local club the Pugneys Pirates.

“Windsurfing at Kielder Water Sailing Club was set up by two of the oldest members of the club (both in their 80s) who were part of the huge windsurfing fraternity back in the eighties” Brian explains.

“The Kestrels only started last September and we had 20 T15 members. We are hoping to get even more youngsters signed up this season as for the very first time we are taking part in the T15 Inter-Club Championship.

“Kielder Water is a large lake, a great place to windsurf with plenty of space to learn, develop and to have fun, whether you have been windsurfing for years or just a few weeks. A small bay which is semi-enclosed by KWSC’s jetty is ideal for beginners, after which the headland point is the target and then into the wide open space of Kielder Water for a blast across the lake” he continues.

Christina Coates

Windsurfing certainly runs in the Coates family as Brian’s daughter Christina (15) who is a freestyle expert, also instructs the newly formed Kielder Kestrels (when she’s not competing with the team). Christina was awarded the RYA North East Young Sailor of the Year Award at the London Boat Show for her work volunteering with the club.

 “I am looking forward to using my skills to help the Kielder Kestrels in their first year in the Inter-Club Championship. Everyone is really looking forward to a full season of windsurfing, racing and freestyle at Kielder” said Christina.

The Kestrels will be competing in the North Zone alongside current T15 Zone Champions the Pugneys Pirates from Wakefield, the team which Christina previously competed with and gained her valuable windsurfing experience.

“I do think there will be some friendly rivalry with the kids from Pugneys, we have as we will have some of their members competing including me!” explains Christina.

But for the Kestels it’s not just the winning that counts.

“For us it’s about the fun! This will be the first year that we will take part in the Inter-Club and we see it as a fantastic opportunity for the youngsters to advance their windsurfing skills and have fun out on the water. The great thing about racing is that competitors have to learn to use the wind in the correct way to get an advantage” said Brian.

Not only will it be the first time the Kestels compete but they will also be welcoming junior windsurfing teams from across the North when they host the North Zone Event 3 for the first time in July.

Christina coaching

“We are a little nervous about hosting a T15 event for the very first time” Brian Admits. “However it will be great to be able to showcase our venue and I’m sure the kids will be pretty excited about it! Hopefully we will have a bit of an advantage too on home waters”.

With the new season just around the corner the club were delighted to find out that they has been awarded a grant of over £2,250 from the Eric Twiname Trust to purchase the final pieces of windsurfing equipment needed for the Team15 sessions.

“We are hugely grateful for the funding provided by the Eric Twiname Trust and our thanks go to the trustees not only for their support but for the straightforward way in which you apply for the funding. Having decided to take part in the Inter-Club it came to the rescue just at the right time and will provide us with six new Dino rigs.”

Pugneys

The Kielder Kestrels will be busy preparing for the season with Team15 sessions taking place on the fourth of Saturday of every month followed by a race day on the Sunday.

“Although the Kestrels are only open to junior windsurfers of fifteen years and under, everyone from beginner to expert is welcome at Kielder. We are open to windsurfers of all abilities from complete beginner upwards” Brian concludes.

Supported by industry leaders Tushingham/Starboard and Neil Pryde, T15 was set up by the RYA to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grass roots level. Fun and informal training sessions take place at T15 clubs all over the country for kids up to the age of 15, which are run weekly by specialist RYA coaches.

For more information about Team15 and locate your nearest local club visit www.team15.org.uk or contact the RYA 0845 345 0400.

To get involved in windsurfing at Kielder Water Sailing Club visit www.kielderwatersc.org

If you missed the previous feature with Barrie Edgington check it out here. 

Barrie chats about his role as a coach working with the squad and with Nick; how his role differs in training compared to his involvement during regattas; the pressures coaches face, the qualities required to be a successful coach and what he loves about coaching.

Check out more videos and interviews on the RYA You Tube channel here. 

New video from the weekend, thanks to rising star Sam Latham!

K15 Sam Latham @ OTC Weymouth winter slalom training from Sam Latham K15 on Vimeo.

The start of the competition calendar is quickly approaching and many sailors are getting serious about the pre season training now. Down in Weymouth over the weekend, Si Pettier showed the others exactly how to nail a start! Remember, Ross Williams will be joining the guys in Weymouth very soon for his pre-season training weekend.

Are you thinking of competing in the BSA or any other UKWA competitions this year? Have you started setting some on and off water goals to get you ready? Even sailing with a group and challenging each other could add that vital speed you’ll need to race to the front of the pack. If you’re looking for an active group of windsurfers to join, check out Project Windsurf UK and see what’s coming up in your area!

RYA Advanced Instructor course, get involved!

The Advanced Instructor course has a clinic-based approach, appealing to a wider spectrum. The core content of the instructor course enables instructors to teach the main advanced course in the scheme. In addition, instructors can be assessed during the course to enable them to teach further advanced clinics in advanced carving skills and bump and jump.

Eligibility

Intermediate planing instructor:

Minimum age 18

Minimum of a very competent Advanced certificate holder plus clinics in waterstarting and carve gybing

RYA Powerboat level 2 certificate

Valid first aid qualification*

Evidence of 100 hours logged as an Intermediate planing instructor

If you have any questions or want to book yourself on the course then please contact Sam or Tris.