You’re a dab hand at speed sailing, with appearances
at many of the top events. Why does speed appeal?
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Well it all starts with the feeling of pushing the limits of you and
your equipment. That feeling of taking it to the edge… and
hopefully bringing it back again. It doesn’t really matter what
equipment you are on, the feeling is the same. The inevitable
desire to go faster and faster and then compete is where it starts
get expensive, but that is the best way to push yourself.
What about other areas of windsurfing? Are you
chasing any still to tick off bits?
I would like to break the 50 knot over 500m barrier. It’s just what’s
next on the list… after that it will be 51 knots. I have done it for a
shorter distance so I know I just need a good run.
What would you say are your biggest achievements
to date?
Last year, 2017 was really my best year ever! Second overall and
first Brit at Weymouth Speed Week was a big result along with
winning the Dave White Trophy and becoming British GPS Speed
Champion. I came fifth at the Speed Worlds in Fuerteventura and
to top it off had a great trip to Luderitz! I will keep at it but not sure
if I will be able to beat that.
Talk to us about your local spot and what it offers.
I feel very lucky to live near Christchurch. We have Avon beach
for waves and Christchurch harbour only a few hundred meters
down the road, for flat water sailing. This is normally enough to
satisfy me but Portland and Kimmeridge are not far away if not.
What’s your dream location and why?
Windsurfing has taken me to some fantastic places over the
years. My favourite place and one I have promised myself I will
return to is Western Australia. The beautiful sailing spots and
open roads make it perfect for extended touring trips. I also have
a soft spot for Luderitz!
Any plans to travel in the near future?
Luderitz 2018 is my big event of the year. Last year was going to
be a one off but unfortunately with speed, the job is never done.
My experience last year just fills the brain with ideas about what
can be improved.
How do you balance time on the water with your time
with work/family life?
This is something that is getting more difficult. I have a kitchen
business, three young children and a wife who works full time as a
head teacher. The key to finding time to get on the water is
flexibility and team work. ‘Team work makes the dream work!’ we
say in our house. It helps that my wife is a very capable woman
who supports the cause. After all, she married a windsurfer.
Tell us about your interest in old equipment.
I have a collection of iconic boards and sails from the late
80s/early 90s. Generally classic speed and slalom kit. Since my
interest in this has become widely known you wouldn’t believe
the junk people try and sell me. I’m quite particular about what I
buy and it’s nice to know that some classics have been saved
from landfill. It seems it’s not just me who enjoys a look back at
the equipment that got us to where we are today, every time I
pull out a classic I am bombarded with nostalgic comments and
good time stories. It’s all smiles.
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