Round two of the UKWA Slalom series took place at Hayling Island on 21st and 22nd May with a very healthy entry of more than 60 competitors highlighting the growth in this area of windsurfing in recent times. The good old British weather played a frustrating game of cat-and-mouse with the fleets for the whole weekend leading to race abandonments and no results in the Pro or Amateur fleets. 

While the racing didn’t quite “happen”, during both afternoons most riders were nicely powered for certain periods with winds up to 14 knots that allow large slalom gear to be well lit-up. Starboard Brand Manager Tiesda You was over from Thailand and paid a flying visit to catch up with the slalom riders, great to see him with the UK team.

During the weekend the 2015 UKWA Windsurfer of the Year trophy was awarded to slalom stalwart Kev Greenslade, who received the prize from former winner Zara Davis. His speech was entertaining and appreciated by the crowd of fellow racers!

“While we didn’t manage a full round of competition, it was great to see a large number or windsurfers across all fleets flying around on the water, particularly on Sunday afternoon when the sun was out. I was impressed by the speed of many of the youngsters, making sure the seasoned pro’s will be kept sharp as they begin nipping at their heels in the coming months and years. 

I haven’t done much racing myself recently so Hayling was a great opportunity to hit the water on new gear with a bunch of speedy sailors. I was mightily impressed by the 2016 iSonic 124, carrying the Reflex 9.0 with no problem at all. Looking forward to more wind at some of the forthcoming events!” – Paul Simmons