The New Caledonian has just released his latest edit from 4 sessions shot during February in the Mother City, which you can see @ vimeo.com/325371005

1. Why are you so passionate about windsurfing?

Not sure actually. But whenever I get on a windsurfer and get planing and blast along the water or do a jump, I feel very alive. It’s what keeps me going. There is nothing a good windsurfing session cant fix!

2. What quality do you like most in other people?

People I vibe with. Sincere, adventurous and funny people.

3. What do you most like in yourself?

I’m a very fast learner.

4. What do you dislike in yourself?

I’m always a couple of minutes late to appointments.

5. What has been your best moment on tour?

My best moments have always been when I’ve been able to put a good game together to challenge my opponents properly.

6. What has been your worst moment on tour?

Costa Brava 2016. I sailed my way to the semi-finals and sailed the wrong semi-final heat. So I got disqualified and got a last place.

7. Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself when your career started?

I would have trained differently, and put my focus on the things which would have mattered, but that’s very easy to say looking back after these years of racing.

8. What is the best advice you have ever been given?

If in doubt, go big.

9. What would be your perfect day?

If I were able to squeeze in surfing, gym, lots of windsurfing, chill-out, guitar playing and a few other things into the same day!

10.Do you have any superstitions?

Sure, but they are too weird to mention.

11. Which living person do you most admire?

My mom.

12. What is your greatest fear? 

Not going for what you want.

13. What is your most treasured possession?

My knowledge I guess… and my fin bag.

14. If you weren’t a professional windsurfer, what would you like to be?

I’d be cruising around the world doing online business with my laptop!

15. Where is the best place you’ve been?

In general, I’ve always enjoyed Cape Town lots, but Maui has always been a special place for me.

16. Where would you most like to go to that you haven’t been to yet?

Columbia.

17. Who would you most like to have as a dinner guest, dead or alive?

Some hot woman?

18. First App you open in the morning?

Flipboard.

19. Most visited website?

Windguru by far.

20. A phrase you live by?

Strike while the iron is hot.

Thanks, Kurosh.

You can stay up to date with all of Kurosh Kiani’s latest news and adventures via his Social Media Channels:

Facebook: @imthekman web.facebook.com/imthekman/

Instagram: @imthekman www.instagram.com/imthekman/

The conditions that those 8 sailors faced were perhaps the gnarliest conditions ever windsurfed as winds over 100kmh and waves up to 8 metres battered Ireland’s rugged coastline. At times it sounded as though 8 of the most talented sailors in the world couldn’t even sail in a straight line, while driving rain and sometimes even snow pushed them to their limits. However, even in spite of the extreme conditions, they somehow still managed to pull off gravity defying stunts and set aim at the biggest lips they could find, when most people were hiding in the warmth of their homes and doing virtually everything possible to avoid going outside! As a day that will go down in windsurfing history we thought we’d catch up with eventual winner Jaeger Stone and vice-champion - Philip Köster for a full run down of events:

Hey Jaeger, has it settled in now that you just won the wildest RBSC yet?

Nah, not really! It makes me really happy when I think about it but I have definitely had to double check a couple of times.

How hard was it for you to go from hot Aussie summer to freezing cold Ireland, both mentally and physically? 

Yeah, it was a little difficult to be honest. We had been on hold for about a week, I pushed my flights to Maui back and the forecast was really inconsistent so I felt like I was going through a lot of emotions with the anticipation of it all. Once it was all called on I guess I just decided to go with the flow of it all. Before I came over to Ireland one of my biggest concerns was going to be how I handled the cold. I spoke to a few of my mates and basically said I wasn't sure if I would be able to move or how I would react as it's so different to anything I know. That was definitely a massive challenge. I think in the moment you have so much adrenaline and determination you push through and find ways to deal with it. Everyone was in the same boat.  When it’s all over though I think you realise how hard you push your body. I’ve been quite sick since I got home but it has all been worth it.

When it got given the green light and you saw the forecast were you excited or a bit precautious?

It was a real mix of feelings. I waited up until 10pm the night before to see if they had made the call and was just getting my girlfriend Carla to check my phone. Nothing came through though so I went to sleep. When I woke at 6am I checked my phone and they had pretty much called it on about 5min after I went to bed. I’m glad I didn’t see the message as I’m sure I wouldn’t have slept. I was quite relaxed that morning though, excited but also nervous for the unknown. 

Was that the windiest and biggest conditions you’ve ever sailed? Can you try and put into words just how gnarly the conditions were? 

Without a doubt the windiest I’ve ever sailed. At times I couldn’t even keep my board in the water or sail in a straight line. It was out of control. The waves weren’t the biggest I’ve ever been out in but coupled with that wind strength it was mental. On the second day there were some absolute nuggets coming through on the outer reef and the ocean just felt so wild and violent. I think that in itself was pretty tough to deal with, but it was so cold we could hardly feel our hands and then had rain, snow and hail storms on top.

When it’s that cold and wild - was it tough to mentally make yourself try and push yourself to perform the most radically you can?

Yeah, for sure. We sailed 3 rounds on each of the 2 days and it was so cold that it definitely took some motivation to get out of the warm car and back in to the water. The conditions were extremely uncomfortable at times, both on and off the water, but once you’re out there adrenaline soon kicks in again. Sailing with those other 7 guys, everyone is pushing so hard it definitely inspires you to try and go as big as you can.

What size gear were you on when the conditions were at the windiest? Did you have special custom boards made for the RBSC and what fin setup did you sail?

I used my custom 3.0 Severne S-1 Pro and swapped between my 72L Starboard Ultrakode and custom 76L Ultrakode. My custom 76 was built for big waves and strong cross-off winds which is basically what we sailed in for most of the day when Storm Gareth hit. I sailed my boards as a thruster with an 18cm rear fin and 11cm side fins.

How was the experience for you as a whole? 

It was awesome. It was so fun hanging out with all the sailors and RBSC crew. Ireland is a beautiful place, the people were super friendly and the entire trip was an experience I’ll never forget.

Thanks, Jaeger. Congrats again!

Philip Köster (Starboard / Severne / Maui Ultra Fins) - who finished 2nd added: “It was the biggest challenge ever to sail in winds over 100kmh together with waves all over and the freezing temperatures. I am really happy though that the storm chase got done in these conditions! I had a lot of fun also watching the others sailing.

I think it was definitely the windiest I haver ever sailed, I had as smaller 3.5 which I can hold on to quite a bit but sometimes during the event it was almost impossible to go in a straight line." 

When asked about the huge stalled forward photo, Köster said: “I’m not sure If I have done any bigger forwards but it is definitely in my top 5 high jumps, I thought about only doing a straight jump but since it was a contest I decided to hang on a forward at the end, bit of a back slap but still pretty stoked on that one.

For the RBSC I was on 80 litre Kode as a quad and my 3.5 blade, guess I could have been on 3.0 like the others!”

And on the whole RBSC experience, Philip has this to day: “I think this contest made me sail in conditions where I would have never sailed alone, stoked on sharing these sessions with the other 7 riders. We pushed each other quite a bit which was really cool. I sailed Pozo on 4.2 now and it felt super easy :).”

You can stay up to date with Jaeger Stone’s & Philip Köster’s latest news and adventures via their Social Media Channels:

Instagram: @jaeger_stone @philip_koster
Facebook: @jaegerstone120 @philipkoester.g44

In 2018, Browne finished the year ranked 5th overall, but was in title race contention heading into the final event of the year and there’s no doubt that he’ll be hoping to get his hands on the 2019 world title!

The 29-year-old is one of the best all-round wave sailors on the planet - equally adept on both port and starboard tack - and his latest video is shot in Maui, Hawaii where he absolutely kills it with speed, power and flow on the wave, while also adding pushloop forwards to his starboard tack repertoire.

You can see Marcilio Browne’s stunning new edit @ https://vimeo.com/323289052

The 2016 Aloha Classic Champion has just released a new video filmed in Maui during December and early January, which sees KP concentrating on the old school theme, so you won’t find any 360s, goiters or takas here, but you will find plenty of committed turns and airs.

You can see Kevin Pritchard’s last video on Starboard, before switching to Goya Windsurfing @ https://vimeo.com/323893010

Immediately, I started to check possible flight combinations to reach Sal. It looks easy, as the Canaries are really close, but the flight companies that fly between the islands don’t take windsurf equipment.  

After 1 day looking for all possibilities and organising my gym finding someone to replace me, I bought the most expensive tickets of my life. It’s was like the same cost as to go to Hawaii. But I didn’t mind, I wanted to be there at the right time! 

The day before, it was time to prepare boardbags, medicine for the cuts and sea urchins, duck tape and poxipol for the rocks…hahahah. 

23 hours of flights later and I finally arrived to Sal, after 11 years without being there. Last time I’ve been in Sal it was quite deserted and a kind of third world country. One day before leaving we suffered a robbery, which was a nightmare, but in the end we could fly back home. 

Today Sal is much more developed, with a lot of services and possibilities. It’s another world now. Safe, with a lot of places to stay, good food, nice people. But on the other hand it is more crowded. All the spots are full, every session is a fight, especially with the kiters. 

Day 1

First session at Ponta Preta! Maybe the biggest day of the year. Victor Fernandez (Fanatic / Duotone) said: “I think it can be the biggest day I’ve ever seen in my life here in Ponta Preta.”

In 2008 I destroyed 2 sails in 20 minutes in the shore break. I was afraid of it, and I didn’t want to be the first to go in.

The wind was super light, but I rigged and started to get ready. I was there to go. While I was rigging Josh Angulo (Angulo Boards / Challenger Sails) arrived and started to rig too. I went to the beach fast to be there with Josh and study how the most expert sailor of this spot managed to pass the shore break. But suddenly I saw him going in from the rocks, avoiding it. He was not lucky, he broke mast and sail, on the first run.

After waiting for a while and looking at the sets coming in, I decided to give it a try. This was the moment… I was shaking… Once I sorted to pass the shore break, a big set came in closing all the bay. I didn’t do a nose dive with the sail. I could keep the sail in my hands and managed to sail away. I was in!!! Beginner’s luck.

The wind was really light, gusty and with gusts changing from side to off shore. But as I was alone, I managed to surf a few bombs. I sailed the easy way, not to finish on the rocks during the first session. But it was a fun session.

After a while the wind turned more offshore and it was almost impossible to take any wave. At the end we had to go through the shorebreak without planing on a wave. Imagine, another “funny” moment. Shaking again. Everything finished perfectly, without damages.

For the second session we moved to Canoe, a spot located between Ponta Preta and Ali Baba. Ali Baba was huge and full offshore. When all spots are 100% off, here is the only spot with possibilities to sail. We arrived at the beach and it was looking quite tricky, with some lines closing from one side to the other. But it was windier than Ponta Preta. I rigged my 5.0 and I had a fun session.

It’s an easy spot. With low tide there are some sea urchins on the beach, but less than Secret and Ali Baba. The wave is quite soft but at the end it has a little bowl for some nice aerials.

For sure there are also rocks, but less than the other spots. If you lose your equipment it can survive.

Day 2

We decided to go early to Ponta Preta, before the kite event started. It was 8am and when we arrived there were already 3 kiters sailing. Again, I was the first windsurfer to go in, but I was more confident with the spot. The wind was better than the first day and we could have a short but amazing session. At 9 am the organiser asked us to get out, because they where starting with the kite contest warm-up.

Second session at Ali Baba. It was more than mast and a half, a few sets 2 masts, connecting from the outside to the inside. After few minutes, Kai Scored a wave all the way in. He was on fire screaming!!! What fun!

He went out and gave me a few tips for the wave. Actually, the waves were probably the biggest I’ve ever surfed.

Ali Baba is a really fast wave with different sections. You start with a water mountain, sailing down wind to get into the wave. When the wave arrives at the corner, it starts to get some shape, becoming vertical. First section is where you can do a few turns. After that you must start to head down-the-line at full speed. As soon as you pass the first fast section you think it will be more quiet, but it isn’t! The wave loses some height, but the last part of the wave starts to build, faster and more shallow. It’s pretty easy to go to the rocks if you are not fast. Then you can sort out, arriving at the easier and fun beach wave, where the wind is a bit more side shore.

At the end, I managed to sail a few ones all the way in. It’s a pure adrenaline wave!

Day 3

Ponta Preta was perfect, but they were competing with the kite event. So we decided to move to Ali Baba. It was smaller than the day before but windier. I was really powered up on the wave with my 4.7, but I didn’t have smaller sail with me. I’ve always been in full planing. I took 3 – 4 waves.

“On one of those, trying to pass the first fast section, a gust went in the other side of the sail and the boom or the mast hit my head. It happened in less than a second. With the pain I had, I thought my head was cut but I was lucky because it was just swollen but without blood. And I could keep sailing.”

After having lunch the wind and waves dropped, but there was still some swell so we decided to go for a floating session.

It was light and small. To catch the wave we needed to be almost on the rocks before the corner. The wave was quite small, but as soon as you sorted out a few rocks and sections you could ride the wave with some turns. As soon as we started I realised we will finish on the rocks. Once a big set came in Victor and me were close to go and visit the rocks. After 2 waves I went out of the fast section because I couldn’t pass it, and after that a bigger set was coming! I tried to push the mast as deep as I could but it was really shallow, maybe one and a half meter. I ended on the rocks with a few holes on the board and on the sail. And obviously sea urchins in my feett. The Ali Baba reef finally gave me the welcome. That day Victor also finished on the rocks, but he was more lucky than me without breaking anything.

Day 4

Forecast dropped and Ali Baba wasn’t working. We went for a small session at Canoe with the 4.7 and it was fun. The wave was small but breaking on the shallow reef and quite powerful. Perfect for some aerials.

Day 5

The kites were still competing. They had to finish the double elimination. I decided to go really early in the morning and give a try. I woke up at 5:30am to be ready at the beach at 6:30 am. I couldn’t believe it, there were 3 kites already in the water. At 7am I had my 5.0 and 93 ready and I went for a nice session. The tide was low and the waves were opening better.  I had a few nice ones with some aerials. But at 8:00 I had to get out because 8 kiters were warming up for the double and it was a nightmare to catch a wave.

After that session I moved to the north. I went to Fontona. It’s a spot near Palmeira. Its wave has the peak on the outside and there’s a big bay with a beach. It’s really easy to go in and out. You have flat water inside and a mast high wave breaking on the outside. But the wave breaks on the rocks and if you go too deep you can destroy everything.

When I arrived it was working and looking on fire. I rigged the 4.7 and went for a full planing session. Unluckily the wave dropped and I couldn’t ride many waves, maybe only 4 nice ones. The waves were breaking on the rocks and it was simply too risky.

After lunch I went back to Ponta Preta to check the condition and the wave was breaking on the inside and on the left, but not on the peak. The left was huge, more than a mast. But the right wasn’t that good. It was looking like the swell was more westerly. We moved North again looking for a better spot because we were sure that somewhere it should work.

Ali Baba was the spot. It was completely off shore but the wave was incredible, opening perfectly. And I went for my last session here in Sal. The sunset session.

Marignane is located at the heart of a windy wonderland between Marseille, the second-largest city of France, and Aix-en-Provence, a place well-known for its colourful markets and delicious French delicacies.

For 50 years already the Club Nautique Marignanais has been promoting windsurfing by training athletes and fans on the biggest saltwater lagoon in Europe: the Etang de Berre. However, one thing was still missing. Indeed, hosting a world event would show the sailing community the best attributes of one of the biggest metropoles of France.

With the PWA Windsurf World Cup, this dream becomes true and we are honoured to host the first Men’s and Women’s Slalom event on the French Mediterranean coast for many years.

Our biggest partner is the Metropole Aix Marseille Provence, who is promoting the economic development of 92 communes within our beautiful territory. The Metropole is home to a remarkable collection of historic remains, natural gems and Provence’s traditions. Along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the rocky creeks (Calanques) offer a large variety of captivating landscapes with the sea and its sandy beaches, the Sainte-Victoire mountain with its pretty colours, but also the beautiful cities of Marseille and Aix-en-Provence with its important architectural wealth.

However, not only does the region offer beautiful views, it is also the stage of an undeniable economic activity. The Marseille-Provence airport serves as an international hub in the south of France alongside the container and oil commerce which raises the port of Marseille-Fos to being the largest French port in the national rank. Moreover, Airbus Helicopters remains at the cutting edge of technology when it comes to the aircraft industry and thus makes Marignane home to the world’s leading helicopter manufacturer. On the other hand, the Metropole is also a major cultural centre. Artists and authors like Paul Cézanne and Marcel Pagnol have, time after time, made the latter their muse.

Yet, above all, the region is a true windsurf paradise with multiple spots. Marseille’s world class conditions and infrastructure, for both sailing and windsurfing, have also been further endorsed by the fact that in 2024 the city will host the nautical disciplines for the Olympic Games. So, whether you are looking for slalom, freestyle or waves - sometimes up to mast-high at Carro when the south-east kicks in - Marseille has something to offer everyone. And last but not least: the legendary "Jaï" in Marignane, feared by some, respected by all. When it's Mistral time, we call it THE slalomers' place to be - 20 to 40 knots of wind in choppy conditions means that each individual is pushed to his or her limits. Sailors love to come here because they know that Le Jaï stands for guaranteed adrenaline. Not Convinced? There is only one way to find out... Come and try it out for yourself at the 2019 Marignane Slalom PWA World Cup."

Two of the biggest names in the racing world share their thoughts on the Slalom tour returning to their homeland:

25-time world champion Antoine Albeau: “I am super happy to have an event in France, Marignane is a super location because the wind can blow really strong, the event is on the lake just where the Mistral is landing from the mountains, we can have lots of different kind of wind. For the press it is also super good because the windsurfing in France and especially in the south of France is big and we need this kind of event to promote windsurfing. I am really looking forward for this event. See you there. A2."

Pierre Mortefon (Fanatic / Duotone / Chopper Fins) - World No.3 2018: “It’s great to have the opening event of the season in France this year! I know the place really well as it’s not so far from home and it’s also one of the best slalom spots in France with great and various conditions, but also a nice club with many windsurfers. Usually we start the French season there and after so many years with great organisation I am super happy that the club pushed a lot and managed to organise a world tour event, congrats to all the team and I can’t wait to be there!”

Thanks to Marignane’s diverse range of conditions, the first stop on the 2019 PWA Slalom World Tour promises to be a hugely exciting affair with the world’s best racers needing to be prepared for whatever Marignane may throw at them. Make sure you don’t miss any of the racing by tuning into www.pwaworldtour.com between 17th-22nd April.

March 12th – The powerful forces of a massive North Atlantic storm battered the beaches of northwest Ireland. Eight world-class windsurfers, who had traveled from all corners of the globe, braved the wind and waves for the Red Bull Storm Chase, the world’s toughest windsurfing contest. Having waited over three years for such a storm to arrive, the competitors and crew could hardly believe their eyes at the conditions in front of them.

Taking home the trophy: Australian Jaeger Stone (Starboard / Severne / SWOX / Shamal Sunglasses), sailing in the coldest conditions of his life. “It was absolutely insane to compete in these conditions,” said the 28-year-old. “It was ballistic, massive, and freezing. Winning the contest feels unreal, and it still hasn’t sunk in yet – I’m still just trying to warm up my hands!”

Although there was a warm-up day on Saturday, and a first day of competition on Sunday, all eyes were on ‘Big Tuesday’ when wind and waves were expected to peak. Driving over the hill in front of Magheroarty Beach, conditions initially looked calm – but quickly ramped up to the real deal as the tide dropped and the wind increased. As helicopter and jetski safety crews looked on, competition got underway.

The eight riders headed out in pairs for 20-minute heats in practically balmy 8C temperatures. Judges watched from above the reef as wind and waves increased in magnitude throughout the day – providing an incredible canvas for breath-taking wave rides and eye-popping aerial acrobatics.

Competition during the first two rounds took place on the reef upwind, focusing on wave rides, but as the wave size increased and wind direction changed, competitors moved to the beach break for one final round of short heats – with winds gusting to 131kph.

At the beginning of the day, Philip Köster (Starboard / Severne / Maui Ultra Fins), Jaeger Stone, Leon Jamaer (JP / NeilPryde), and Thomas Traversa (Tabou / GA Sails) led the standings – but with a new wind and wave situation, anyone could win the contest. Highlights of the second day included a nearly-landed double push-loop from Ricardo Campello (Brunotti Boards), and incredible air taka from Philip Köster, and several seriously large aerials from previous event winner Thomas Traversa – but none of them put all the points together to keep Jaeger from claiming the title of Red Bull Storm Chase Champion. Jaeger’s multiple solid wave rides and jumps, along with a biggest wave hit bonus, sealed the deal.

Sports Director Klaas Voget (Fanatic / Duotone) said: “Over all the Storm Chases we’ve done, this was the hardest – the conditions were radical, and it was just so cold. Temps were just 5oC – I didn’t think we’d see such high performance sailing in these temperatures. That was impressive. And finally, today was the windiest day that many of these guys have ever sailed in.”

The prize-giving ceremony was held on the spot in still-blustery winds and rain, as competitors and organisers thanked local safety and support crew and the welcoming community of Magheroarty for hosting the world’s toughest windsurfing contest.

Key Facts:

- The world’s toughest windsurfing contest took place Magheroarty Beach on the

northwest coast of Ireland

- Wind gusts were measured at 131kmh and wave heights up to 8m as a massive storm

hit the coast

- Eight world class riders judged on jumps and wave riding + execution of tricks

Final Podium

1st: Jaeger Stone
2nd: Philip Köster
3rd: Leon Jamaer
4th: Robby Swift (JP / NeilPryde / SWOX / Shamal Sunglasses)

You can see raw footage of Day 2 here and the official highlights here.

Channels

Website: www.redbullstormchase.com

Media Resources: www.redbullcontentpool.com
Instagram: @redbullstormchase
Facebook: @RedBullStormChase

That injury forced the now 24-year-old to miss the entire 2018 PWA Wave World Tour, but thankfully it sounds like Stillrich is well on the way to returning to his previous best with the Gran Canarian stating that he feels like he’s back to 90% and ready for 2019. We recently caught up with Alessio for an interview, which you can read below:

Hi Alessio, how’s it going?

It’s going great, I am enjoying being back on the water a lot and to feel like a professional windsurfer again! 

It’s been just over a year since your major injury… you’ve just been to South Africa - how are you feeling on the water and are you back to 100% now?

I am feeling nearly the same as before. The only thing is that I sometimes feel my syndesmosis ligament in the ankle on very flat landings, which is the ligament I also broke last year, but this is getting better and better and will go away soon doctors say! This makes me be a bit insecure sometimes because I never know if the landing is going to hurt or not, but all in all I am feeling good and I would say I am at 90% right now! 

Are you able to perform all the tricks and jumps you want or are there still some moves to get back in your repertoire?

I actually just came out of the water and landed my first goiters! I did not try them until now but they felt great and thank god I did not forget how to do them! So now after doing my first goiters the only move I have not tried until now is the double forward, but apart from that I am doing all the moves I did before. 

Last year was obviously a big set back for you after finishing 9th overall in 2017- has that made you reevaluate your goals or…? 

I am really hungry for competition but I have not reevaluated my goals.  My goal has always been to improve my overall ranking from the previous year,  which I have managed to do until now. So also this year my goal will be to improve upon that 9th place from 2017. I will be quite nervous for sure, especially at the first event, but I hope everything goes well after more than a year without competing and to make a successful comeback!

What’s it like to be back on the water after such a long break from windsurfing?

It feels amazing! It was a really hard time last year, especially February - June because in this period I could not windsurf at all. In June I slowly started to sail without doing any moves but the big change came just before going to Cape Town as I was able to start jumping. In November I had two screws removed from my knee. They where giving me quite a lot of pain until they were taken out. So after removing them I felt so much better and since then I more or less started to feel the same as before again. I am so thankful that everything turned out well and for being able to sail like before the injury again after one year! 

How was your trip to South Africa overall?

It was great to be back in Cape Town and the place where everything happened. The conditions this year were maybe a bit worse than all the other years I went but still I got to sail a lot. I arrived without having sailed in big waves or strong wind for quite a while and it was a good trip get used to jumping and sailing on a higher level again. 

Are you back home now? And do you have any more trips planned?

Yes I am at home right now, but my next trip will be to Maui for the Fanatic and Duotone photoshoot. I’m looking forward to be back on Maui, especially after not having been there last year! 

Thanks, Alessio. Great to hear you are almost back to 100%. Enjoy Maui and see you in Gran Canaria for the opening wave event of the year.

You can follow all of Alessio Stillrich’s latest news and adventures via his Social Media Channels:

- Facebook: @AlessioStillrich 
- Instagram: @alessiostillrich 

Photo Credit: Maleen Hoekstra

Two Goat Media: “Recent quick trip to Esperance, good times.. Not quite firing as we hoped but still lots of fun none the less. In between photos we managed to do some filming with Jaeger Stone. He makes it look pretty good in tricky conditions.”

You can see Jaeger Stone hitting a few Esperance lips here! 

1. Why are you so passionate about windsurfing?

I love the high speed on the water and it creates a feeling of freedom. 

2. What quality do you like most in other people?

Helpfulness.

3. What annoys or frustrates you the most?

The waiting game in Korea (After coming there for the fourth time).

4. What do you most like in yourself?

My persistence to reach my goal.

5. What do you dislike in yourself?

For slalom I am to light and short so I have to compensate with my other qualities.

6. What has been your best moment on tour?

Competing in New Caledonia and Portugal, two amazing places to race!

7. What has been your worst moment on tour?

Racing in water full of seaweed or trash.

8. Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself when your career started?

Don’t give up on your dreams.

9.  What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Always believe in yourself.

10. What would be your perfect day?

Sunny, warm and windy sharing a great day on the water with friends and a lot of smiles.

11. Which living person do you most admire?

Kai Lenny 

12. What is your greatest fear? 

In general, losing the people you love. In sport/ windsurfing my biggest fear is to get so badly injured that I am not able to windsurf / play sports anymore. 

13. What is your most treasured possession?

My loved one and family.

14. If you weren’t a professional windsurfer, what would you like to be?

Hmm difficult question but I guess a doctor. 

15. Where is the best place you’ve been?

Australia, the best sailing conditions, friendly people and beautiful nature. 

16. Where would you most like to go to that you haven’t been to yet?

Cape Town 

17. Who would you most like to have as a dinner guest, dead or alive?

My boyfriend and preferably alive ;) 

18. First App you open in the morning? 

Windguru

19. Most visited website?

Checking the webcams on different windsurf spots in Holland. For example, on my home spot scheveningenlive.nl 

20. A phrase you live by?

Stay positive, work hard and enjoy life. 

Thanks, Esther. See you soon in France!

You can stay up to date with all of Esther de Geus' latest news and adventures via her Social Media Channels:

- Facebook: @EstherdegeusNed16
- Instagram: @estherdegeusned16 

March 7th – Flights were booked and arrangements made. Eight of the world’s best storm sailors are headed to Dublin for what will unquestionably be a spectacular moment in windsurfing history, as a massive low-pressure system approaches the coast of Ireland.

The riders will be arriving over the next 72 hours, taking last minute flights from all over the world with plenty of gear in tow.

The current forecast calls for a series of squalls to hit the Irish coast beginning Saturday, with two big systems on the way for early in the coming week. Wave heights are predicted to reach 10m, ensuring plenty of high-flying action – and plenty of gear carnage. Temperatures are expected to hover around 5 degrees celsius making for even tougher conditions.

The precise format of the contest will be determined on location to take maximum advantage of the conditions, but no question the panel of expert judges will be rewarding big jumps, aerial artistry, and of course, stylish wave rides.

Coming for the fun are three former Red Bull Storm Storm Chase podium winners – Leon Jamaer (JP / NeilPryde) from Germany, Dany Bruch (Bruch Boards / Flight Sails / AL360) from the Canary Islands, and current champion, French windsurfer Thomas Traversa (Tabou / GA Sails). They’ll be joined by five more competitors, all ready to take on the storm: UK local Adam Lewis (Fanatic / DuoTone / SWOX), Maui-based Robby Swift (JP / NeilPryde / SWOX), Venezuelan Ricardo Campello (Brunotti Boards), Australian Jaeger Stone (Starboard / Severne / SWOX / Shamal Sunglasses), and Red Bull athlete Philip Köster (Starboard / Severne / Maui Ultra Fins).

As the crew will make last-minute decisions depending upon whether the storm system heads north or south, precise timing and location is not yet determined.

Fans and media should stay tuned to the Red Bull Storm Chase Facebook page and Instagram to get the latest updates on-the-spot as action unfolds.

 Key Facts:

- The world’s toughest windsurfing contest – competition is now confirmed!

- This is not a spectator-friendly event, and no spectator accommodations provided 

- Riders judged on jumps and wave riding – execution of tricks

- The contest will take place in Ireland

- The competitors are: Adam Lewis, Jaeger Stone, Thomas Traversa, Dany Bruch, Robby Swift, Philip Köster, Leon Jamaer, and Ricardo Campello

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Location and safety

The location will be chosen for impressive sailing conditions, presence of adequate medical coverage and emergency services, and an absolute guarantee of water access.

Full safety crews consisting of watersports and medical professionals will be onsite to assist in the event of an emergency.

Event Coverage and timing

This press release offers approximately a 72-hour warning. Riders and event crews are en route to Ireland. Pre-, mid-, and post-event, updates will be available online at Facebook.com/redbullstormchase.

Channels

- Website: www.redbullstormchase.com 
- Instagram: @redbullstormchase
- Facebook: @RedBullStormChase

Bonaire has risen to global fame as one of the best windsurfing spots in the world thanks to it’s reliable trade winds, stunning turquoise waters and of course its laid back Caribbean vibe, while home grown talents such as the legendary Frans Brother’s, former world champion - Kiri Thode (Severne / Severne) - Youp Schmit (I-99 / Avanti) and current world title hopeful - Amado Vrieswijk (JP / Severne) - are just some examples of the world class talent that Bonaire has produced.

Event Organiser Nancy Vrieswijk-Janssen: “With hard work wishes do come true!!

After almost 3 years of  lobbying to get the PWA-scene back to Bonaire I'm thankful I got in touch with Mick Schmit in October 2017. Due to his awesome cooperation and input , the Forsa Foundation and our super motivated committee we can welcome the PWA-crew and international top-riders back to our island this April. 

Bonaire's license-plates may feature the slogan "diver's paradise, but for sure it is a "windsurfers-paradise" as well. Sorobon and Lac Bay are a mecca for windsurfing and is one of the most picturesque places in the Caribbean as it offers the best recipe of wind, water and weather.  The reason why windsurfers worldwide are so attracted to this special place and the breeding ground of our many Bonairian windsurf-talents. 

The FORSA PWA World Cup Freestyle will be an awesome event as our main goal is to involve our youth. Our pro-riders are role models for many youngsters on Bonaire, and to have the entire PWA pro-fleet in action will for sure have a massive positive impact. How these pros or sports in general can have an impact in the lives of these young people will be explained by Mick, chairman of the FORSA PWA-committee and  developer of the FORSA method .

"Mick Schmit: Forsa is a group-oriented educational method that is used for young people with behavioural problems. This method is also applied outside the youth care. We do this by organising activities with other organisations or companies in which the element "we" is the focus-point.  We emphasise what can be achieved, cooperate, trust and give responsibility. To ensure that everyone feels part of the whole." 

In addition to the first PWA event of the 2019 season and youth, emphasis is placed on the environment as Bonaire is a Marine Parc. Therefore we urge all visitors to keep our sea and beaches clean. During day time the freestyle-action and activities for primary school kids are at  Sorobon and the evening entertainment will take place in Kralendijk at Islander so everybody has easy access to enjoy the competition and festivities. If you're not on Bonaire... no problem… we will have livestream broadcasting with Ben Proffitt (Simmer) behind the mic to entertain you wherever you are.

Last, but not at all the least, it is of great importance to mention the fantastic support we have received by the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sports which aims to promote the sport and movement on the island among the youth along with all other local sponsors . We are proud to show the world that with joined forces our island can accomplish a big event such as the FORSA PWA World Cup Freestyle within our relatively small community. 

On behalf of all our committee-members Mick Schmit, Peter Paulussen, Lienne Domacasse, Monique van Gurp and Petra Etmon and myself BON BINI to Bonaire from April 9th - 13th!”

Reaction from some of the top home talents: 

Amado Vrieswijk (JP / Severne) - World No.3 in 2018: “One word AWESOME !! So great to have an event back here on my home spot on Bonaire. I travelled a lot in the past years and could sail in many different places. Sorobon still is my favourite. I know the organisation is working very hard to make this an event to remember and excited to have all riders here on the island very soon. To all, don't miss anything...there will be live streaming.”

Taty Frans (Point-7): “It’s amazing that the organisers/Forsa have pulled this off and it felt like forever but here we are with another PWA Freestyle World Cup on Bonaire and to start the season at home is wonderful. Forsa made it possible and this will give the locals a good chance for good results, Kiri [Thode] is back and Bjorn Saragoza would most probably also be competing so it will be a good battle for the podium.

The wind has been good lately and April could provide perfect 4.8m conditions with the competition taking place at Sorobon on the flat water in Lac Bay, the level will be high and this could be a PWA  World Cup not to miss. See you all on Bonaire April 9-13.”

Tonky Frans: “After 5 years I am happy to say that we will have the PWA back in Bonaire one of the most famous freestyle places in the world, this time it will be interesting to see who will take this victory of the event because of the extremely high level of freestyle, which is only getting higher and higher and as we all know Bonaire is a very good place to practice freestyle. Most of the riders already sail on this spot and for some it will be their first time! 9th April we will start with our first day of the event...let's give a round of applause for everyone who have put a hand to make the king of the Caribbean possible!”

The 2019 FORSA Bonaire PWA World Cup is now little over a month away… make sure you stay tuned to www.pwaworldtour.com between the 9th-13th April - here you’ll be able to stay up to date with all the latest developments from Bonaire — including elimination ladders, entry list, images, live ticker and of course the live stream, so even if you aren’t fortunate enough to be in Bonaire you’ll still be able to watch all of the explosive action as it happens and it promises to be a show you don't want to miss!

You can see the event promo video 'We Present' @ https://youtu.be/iP9qxKQ4aMQ to whet your appetite for the event.

Photo credit : Casper Bouman

Cloarec recently teamed up with Tom Deburchgrave to film his latest movie, which gives an interesting insight into both Baptiste and Cape Town, while featuring plenty of radical wave sailing!

You can see Baptiste Cloarec’s latest movie here.

With the start of the new Slalom season just over a month away it will be interesting to see if Albeau can hit the ground running on is new gear with his move being completed quite late on.

You’ll be able to see how Antoine Albeau gets on in the first event of the season - Marignane PWA World Cup - by tuning into www.pwaworldtour.com between 17th - 22nd April.

Matteo Iachino: “My Australian experience is out now! Check it out and thanks to Two Goat Media(the best ones out there) , Dieter Van der Eyken, Ben Proffitt for filming! And Thanks to the Severne guys too for bringing me around!”

You can Matteo Iachino down under @ https://youtu.be/r2GjWvZe6S8

Arthur Arutkin: “Another perfect trip in South Africa, wind, waves, sun ... Thanks Samuel Tomé and Vaimiti for filming!”

Photo Credit: Samuel Tomé

You can watch Arthur Arutkin’s latest action packed edit here. 

The FQS (Freestyle Qualifying Series)

In 2018 the Freestyle Qualifying Series (FQS) was established in association between the PWA and the EFPT (European Freestyle Pro Tour) to unite the freestyle windsurfing circuit and to create a more comprehensive and professional format.

Who Qualifies?

The top 20 sailors from the 2018 PWA Freestyle World Tour are guaranteed a place at all 3 Freestyle events this season - Bonaire, Fuerteventura & Sylt. The remaining spots will be allocated through the EFPT Qualification (places 21-26), PWA wildcards which will be valid for the whole season and then organiser wildcards for each respective event. 

The six qualified sailors from the EFPT, who will compete on the entire 2019 PWA Freestyle World Tour tour are as follows: 

Name: Loick Spicher (RRD / RRD Sails)

Nationality: Swiss

Best EFPT Result 2018: 2nd place EFPT Sardinia

Name: Julian Wiemar (Starboard / Severne / Maui Ultra Fins)

Nationality: German

Best EFPT Result 2018: 5th place EFPT Sardinia / 5th place DAM-X

Name: Adam Sims (Patrik / Sailloft Hamburg)

Nationality: UK

Best EFPT Result 2018: 9th place EFPT Sardinia / 9th place DAM-X / 9th place EFPT Lanzarote / 9th place Surf Worldcup Austria / EFPT tow-in Champion 2018

Name: Julien Mas (JP / Gun Sails)

Nationality: France

Best EFPT Result 2018: 9th place DAM-X

Name: Eliran Levi (Tabou / GA Sails / Maui Ultra Fins)

Nationality: Israel

Best EFPT Result 2018: 9th place EFPT Fuerteventura

Name: Dudu Levi (Fanatic / Gun Sails)

Nationality: Israel

Best EFPT Result 2018: 9th place EFPT Sardinia

Make sure you stay tuned to www.pwaworldtour.com when the contortionists of the windsurfing world raise the curtains on the 2019 PWA World Tour in beautiful Bonaire (April 9th - 13th) to see how the first event of the season unfolds!

Ricardo Campello: “Cape town’s conditions weren’t the best for me this year. I stayed about 3 weeks and probably had 3 or 4 good sessions. Here are some of my best moments in the water.” 

You can see Ricardo Campello’s latest edit @ youtu.be/Dj2oh53MQes

The young Pole is charging hard and his latest video shows why he is such an exciting prospect as he attacks some solid waves somewhere in Tarifa with a no fear attitude.

You can see Adam Warchol’s latest video here.

Hey Matteo, how’s it going?

Hey guys! It’s going pretty good. Getting ready! 

How happy were you with your performance last season? 

Of course I’m happy. It could be better… but I can’t really complain being on the podium for the 4th year.

Having led the world title race coming into the final event of the year was it a tough pill to swallow missing out on a second world title?

For sure it hasn’t been the best, but as I said I’m 29 and I’ve been up there fighting for the last 4 years. I’ve already won once and I’ll do it again.

On the flip-side you couldn’t have finished the year any better in the Foiling…. Getting your first win and winning 4 out of the 5 eliminations. Before Sylt you had a few top 10 finishes in Foiling, but then you made a huge step forward… what do you put that down to and were you expecting to be so competitive in Sylt?

Well, last year I wasn’t really 100% focused on foiling. I just got better race by race gaining knowledge about course racing, starting, etc.. I’ve never done course racing in my life except from a Formula World Championship six years ago but it has been just one episode. I like sailing in rough conditions and it was wavy and choppy in Sylt… probably there was a lot less to play with different sail, board foil setup and more about just sailing.

A couple of weeks ago we asked Pierre [Mortefon] his thoughts about Foiling obviously gaining popularity at the moment… as one of the top Slalom sailors how do you feel about Foiling? What are your thoughts?

I like foiling. I think it’s a great opportunity to compete in different places with less wind and worse conditions. It could bring windsurfing to new spots and make it more mainstream because of this. At the same time I think slalom is the real core of our racing, and I would never abort an existing slalom event to run a foil event… Slalom has always been there, it’s what everybody does with their mates at their home-spots with whatever gear in any kind of conditions and because of this it will never fade.

You’ve also been in Western Australia for a photoshoot - how was your Australian experience?

Yes it has been my first time there. It has been a great experience. WA is a really nice place, good vibes, cool people around and of course great windsurfing! I’ve been there testing with Ben Severne and Shooting with Starboard and I’ve been lucky enough to wave sail and slalom sail all along the coast, from up north Gnaraloo to down south in Esperance!

The start of the new season is just a couple of months away - what are your preparation plans before the start of the new year and what are your goals?

I’m now leaving to Tenerife. I’ll join the TWS Pro Training and get ready with my new gear. The stuff is working great and I’m positive.

Thanks, Matteo. Good luck with the rest of your training and see you in France in April!

You can stay up to date with all of Matteo Iachino's latest news and adventures via his Social Media Channels:

- Facebook: @MatteoIachinoProWindsurfer
- Instagram: @matteoita140_official

Martin ten Hoeve: “Last week was one of those perfect sessions even though it was very light wind and hard work in the cold conditions. Here is some footage from that day. Footage filmed + some bonus points from my partner in crime :) Sara Sandahl”

You can see Martin ten Hoeve’s latest edit here. 

Pons’ potential to challenge for the overall top 10 caught the eye of both I-99 and Point-7 and for 2019 he will sail under their flags after parting ways with Simmer Style.

Although he may have only recently changed equipment, it looks as though he is already completely comfortable on his new gear from the looks of his latest video, which is a quick fire, action packed 60 second clip of Pons soaring over Pozo Izquierdo.

You can see Josep Pons latest edit @ vimeo.com/318082758

You can read more about Josep Pons transfer to Point-7 via their website @ https://point-7.com/blog/pons-training-determination-brings-josep-pons-black-team/

The German has just released a separate video from that trip, which he classes as windsurfing heaven. Get ready for 5 minutes of pure, radical wave riding.

You can see Leon Jamaer’s latest edit @ youtu.be/q7pEG4ztFXI

1. Why are you so passionate about windsurfing?

I started windsurfing with my dad when I was 6-7 years old, and it’s so nice because this sport is so technical with all the tuning, testing, racing… There is always something to improve, which keeps you motivated!

2. What quality do you like most in other people?

I like people who want to have fun and enjoy every day! 

3. What annoys or frustrates you the most?

The waiting game during an event, most of us windsurfers know what I’m saying …

4. What do you most like in yourself?

In my self ahaha I don’t know. 

5. What do you dislike in yourself?

I don’t like when I miss an event or a race because I didn’t have enough focus.

6. What has been your best moment on tour?

My best moment on the PWA was my first event in Costa Brava in 2017 I think. I managed to make 3 consecutive winner's finals and scored 2nd, 4th and a 5th places when I was 18 years old.

7. What has been your worst moment on tour?

When I won my 2 PWA Youth World Titles

8. Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself when your career started?

I think I could have said to myself, man stop going out during an event… ahaha. I miss so many good results because of that as I was perhaps a bit young to understand that I need to be 100% focused to reach my goals. But now, I know it.

But on the other side, we had some really good moments, so it’s not something that I want to forget !

9. What is the best advice you have ever been given?

I think to never miss or give up during a race. I remember my first IFCA Youth World Championship in Italy. I broke my mast 10 minutes before my first heat. The time it took me to come back to the beach on a boat and to change the mast my heat had already started. But my coach pushed me to go out with 7,8 and big board (as my 8,6 mast was broke), I arrived on the starting line 1min after the start, and I managed to finish 5th and only top 4 advanced, but luckily somebody went over early and I managed to advance until the final and then went on to win it.

10. What would be your perfect day?

My perfect day, at home of course would be: morning surf sesh, Sashimi on a small island after surfing. then sick freestyle session there.

11. Which living person do you most admire?

I do not really have one person, but let’s say for windsurfing I admire people who performing across all the disciplines at a high level.

12. What is your greatest fear? 

To get injured during an event and to miss a complete season… I saw many guys doing it and I know that it’s super hard to come back.. Congrats to Ethan [Westera] and Taty [Frans] for that.

13. What is your most treasured possession?

All my friends around the world ;)

14. If you weren’t a professional windsurfer, what would you like to be?

A sports teacher, that’s what I’m studying now.

15. Where is the best place you’ve been?

Too many places to choose from, maybe New Caledonia and Portugal.

16. Where would you most like to go to that you haven’t been to yet?

Maui

17. Who would you most like to have as a dinner guest, dead or alive?

Rocky

18. First App you open in the morning?

Instagram

19. Most visited website?

PWA livestream

20. A phrase you live by?

Let’s go for it !

Thanks Basile. You can keep up to date with all of Basile Jacquin’s latest news and adventures via his Social Media Channels:

- Facebook: @Basile Jacquin Fra-498 
- Instagram: @basilejacquin 

Hey Sebastian, how’s it going?

All good mate, enjoying life in Tarifa at the moment. It’s reasonably warm, windy and we get some good swells from time to time. That’s all I need for a good winter!

Last season you finished as the Foil vice-world champion - how happy were you to make the podium in the first official year?

Well, I was pretty stoked! Holding one of those trophies in my hands was a childhood dream of mine. Receiving it in front of a German crowd in Sylt was even better. It was a super tight season with ups and downs. I remember giving a quite emotional interview right after it was clear that I made the vice world title. If anyone wants to see that it can be found on my Instagram channel(www.instagram.com/sebastian.koerdel). I think that little video shows how I was feeling in this moment. Right now, the trophy has found it’s place right next to my couch in my apartment and it motivates me every day to keep pushing. 

You obviously have a very strong Formula background - do you think that gives you an advantage in foiling as there are obviously a lot of race tactics involved…

It helped me a lot that I know how to find my way around the race course. I love the fact that you have that tactical component in Foil racing, and that you can give yourself quite an advantage with quick and correct decisions. It just makes the whole racing thing much more complete as it not only challenges your body but also your mind. 

What was your highlight of the 2018 season?

That was my first ever victory in a PWA race at Costa Brava. We were racing all week and I was close to winning many times but lost it in the last moment. I once was even leading comfortably with only a few hundred meters to go. However, the sun was low which made it hard to see and I mistook the start boat for the finish boat. I literary had that victory in my hand and threw it away by going the wrong way. That one messed me up a bit. I was wondering what it would be like throwing this victory away if I would never win a race again in my life. As you can imagine I did not sleep well that night. Fortunately I was able to win a race the next day and all that pressure and anxiousness fell off my shoulders. I just felt on top of the world in that moment.

Now, on the flip side in 2017 you finished in the overall top 10 for Slalom for the first time in your career, but last year you finished 23rd in contrast. How disappointed were you with that result and do you think that also having Foiling to concentrate on affected your performance on the race course, or what would you put it down to?

I did some mistakes in winter training but I would not say that the foiling impeded my slalom performance too much. All year I struggled a lot to find the right setup in my gear and that held me back. Without the right setup you can’t do anything in Slalom. However, I know what went wrong last year and I will not make mistakes like that again. I look forward to come back strong in the Slalom discipline. 

Foiling is gaining popularity - do you now focus more on training Foil or do you still try to split it with training Slalom?

I’m still in love with both forms of racing on a windsurf board so I try to split my training evenly.

You finished the season tied on points with eventual champion - Gonzalo Costa Hoevel - what are your goals for the coming year?

I don’t have any hard feelings on that tied points situation. Gonzalo helped me a lot with introducing me to the Starboard Foil Team and actually taught me the basics of foiling. The guy is a legend and I’m happy for him. We train together and I think there is nothing better for a training team than finishing number 1 and 2 in the world. With that said I will not hold back next year. For sure my goal is to have a title for myself! That is the logical next step. But let’s wait and see, the foiling world is developing so fast that no one knows what will happen after the winter break. There are a few separate training groups and we will only know how fast everybody is at the first event. It will be exciting to see how high the bar was raised over the winter.

Thanks Sebastian. Good luck with the rest of your winter training and see you at the first racing event of the year in France (17th-22nd April).