Windsurfing
No other water sport combines every subtle movement of wave, wind and body found in windsurfing. From beginners to experts, balance and a feel for the movement of the board is all-important. In high winds, experts achieve astonishing speeds whether sailing or in the great competitions.
However, all of this has to start somewhere, and the safe and sensible way is to learn board handling on an RYA Training Course. Find out more by following the links below:
The RYA runs training courses for both adults and for youngsters at many sailing and windsurfing centres around the country.
For adults they will be running the new ‘Fast Forward’ Scheme from 2005. The RYA Youth Scheme starts children at about 8 years of age using smaller rigs and takes them carefully through Stages 1, 2 and 3 and then on to the rather more advanced Red, White and Blue Schemes.
Many of the major dinghy sailing centres will also have a windsurfing section, particularly where the water is large enough and clean winds are available. You will find these listed on the RYA website.
Follow the links for detailed information on special interest clubs for adults and children.
You will need a suitable buoyancy aid and a wetsuit (not a drysuit) which are relatively cheap. Only experience will suggest the right kind of board and rig to suit you.
To find out more about the sport contact the RYA through their website www.rya.org.uk or call 0845 345 0400.
