Windsurfing guide : wavesailing / freewave /freestyle

Windsurf Freestyle UK Championships

Freestyle involves looping, jumping and riding the surf and provides some of the most exhilarating action close to the beach and out in the waves. During the 'White Air Extreme Sports festival' the Island always provides some of the years most radical and extreme displays and has become one of the most prestigious events on the European calendar. The image above shot at Compton Bay IOW shows just how superb and World class the Islands conditions can be during White Air.

Competitors travel over each year compliments of 'Wightlink Ferries' and are limited to 64 maximum entrants and compete in a knockout ladder system. The Freestyle is judged by a team of very experienced sailors and points are scored for every jump, trick and waveride. These are added up and the winners then advance to the next round, until an ultimate British Champion is found.

Windsurfing in its early days involved huge boards and large heavy sails that would have near impossible to use to the limits of todays professionals. Equipment has had huge technological advancements and now allows competitors to complete incredible acrobatics.

Jumping moves now include the spectacular 720 degree forward and backward loops. This involves the whole sail and board (and rider) completing a double loop in the air! Competitors are now also riding some huge waves that can be well over mast high in the UK.

Other links; IOW Extreme Sports Guide