BEHIND THE LENS WITH MILES TAYLORBEHIND THE LENS WITH MILES TAYLOR: CAPTURING THE SPIRIT OF CLUB VASSIf youve ever sailed across Vassiliki Bay and spotted a boat flying a large flag with a long lens pointed in your direction, chances are youve already met Miles Taylor. As the in-house photographer at Club Vass and the creative force behind PROtography, Miles has spent the last decade documenting the unforgettable moments that make a windsurfing holiday in Vasiliki so memorable. From shooting beginners to advanced riders blasting across the bay and of course the Club Vass instructors in action, Miles is there to capture all the magic moments. This is a look behind the lens at what a typical week looks like for the man responsible for all the epic images we see from Club Vass.BACKGROUNDMILES: Ive been part of Club Vass for 10 years and if youve ever sailed past a boat in Vassiliki flying a large flag and spotted a long lens pointed your way, thats probably me.My role at Club Vass isnt just about taking photos. Its about capturing an experience. From first-time beginners wobbling through their first tacks to seasoned sailors blasting across the bay in full cross-shore conditions, my job is to capture the moments that make a windsurfing holiday unforgettable.I started A-level photography in 2006 when I was 16. I did two years, then an art foundation course at Plymouth College of Art and Design. That led me to Kingston University to study a BA (Hons) Photography within the Fine Art faculty. The course taught darkroom work, how to build a book and exhibition, how to use a studio, and how to communicate with photography. The course was strong academically, but it did not teach much about entering the industry or freelancing.I learned that by doing lots of jobs and projects. While studying I freelanced constantly. I shot nightlife and events, corporate events, assisted photographers, worked in an indie t-shirt printing factory, and photographed damaged cars for insurance companies amongst a variety of other random photography jobs. After university I continued freelancing and then found a sports holiday resort photography job that included accommodation and travel. I worked two summer seasons there.Through that work I met the photographers at Club Vass; Global Shots. We got to know each other overabeer, then Jay messaged me later to say as they were leaving Club Vass, they thought I would be a good fit and put me in touch with the manager. I met Ollie Scott, who encouraged me to build my own brand name rather than be defined as the Club Vass photographer. The rest is History.INTRODUCTIONThe week begins on Monday morning with the beach briefing. All new guests gather to meet the beach manager and are divided into groups based on ability. Thats my cue to introduce myself and explain how the photography works. I let everyone know that if you see the flag on the boat and sail towards it, youre guaranteed a photo.Mornings are often lighter wind, with beginner groups and kids on the inside. Its a great time to capture progression, instruction, and the atmosphere around the beach. By late morning Ill usually step away to begin editing the first batch of images so theyre ready for viewing later in the day.Then, when the cross-shore wind arrives in the afternoon, things shift up a gear. Thats when Im out on the boat.ON THE WATERI drive the boat myself, and honestly, its one of the best parts of the job. Being able to position myself anywhere in the bay sets the photography apart. Shooting from the water allows for dynamic angles and sequences that simply arent possible from shore.I dont organize shoots out there. That is reserved for the advanced windsurfers who can deliver great action shots at short notice and with pinpoint accuracy. Instead, I make myself visible and accessible. Sail past the flag and Ill track you. It keeps things natural and fluid, which suits the unpredictable nature of Vasiliki Bay.When families try to coordinate a group fly-by, its usually easier said than done. Mixed abilities, changing wind strength, and timing all make precision difficult. For those who want something more structured, I offer one-to-one sessions. These are far more manageable and can involve shooting from the boat or even swimming in the water for a completely different perspective.The wind dictates everything. You cant schedule conditions three days in advance, so the approach is always to take the opportunity while its there.THE SERVICEI am a separate entity, but I work alongside Club Vass and offer my services to holiday clients. Clients purchase directly from me to keep as epic memories of their time on the water. I also offer photography coaching and mentoring, including workshops for guests who want to improve their skills. I do GoPro rentals so people can capture their own footage, and I run a small merchandise side business as well.WORKFLOWIt comes down to workflow quality. It took me years to refine the process, but now I can edit a morning batch in around 45 minutes to one hour. On really busy afternoons editing 800+ shots it can take up to an hour and a half. Having a fast workflow matters so I can still enjoy a beer at the beach bar after work.MORE THAN JUST SHOOTINGBeyond cameras, practical gear makes the difference. Dry bags, shoulder slings, and systems that allow quick access while manoeuvring on the boat are essential. Reliability and mobility matter just as much as image quality.Photography at Club Vass isnt only about daily guest coverage. Throughout the season I work on marketing briefs and social media campaigns, which require planning and coordination with instructors and staff. Some shots can be captured naturally during the week. Others require precise timing, specific ability levels, and ideal wind conditions.Working closely with the instructors is essential. Theres a mutual understanding. They help facilitate great opportunities on the water, and in return we provide imagery they can use themselves. Its a collaborative relationship, and it strengthens the whole operation.WORKING WITH CLIENTSI believe people buy into the photographer as much as the photograph. Being present around the resort, answering questions, explaining the viewing process, and simply chatting with guests builds familiarity. At the end of the day, being approachable both on land and out on the water helps contribute to getting the best photos.Throughout the week, photographs are uploaded daily to a viewing station in the restaurant. On Saturday, before guests leave, I run a dedicated sales day. During the week Im often at the laptop helping and guiding people as they collect and review their images, helping them select and purchase their favourites. Its important that the process feels smooth and accessible, especially after a long day on the water.The images arent just something people buy. Theyre a record of the week, memories that showcase the amazing experience and the incredible location. They end up framed on walls, shared online, and tucked into albums long after the holiday is over.HIGHS, LOWS AND CHALLENGESThe biggest low? No wind. When the wind drops, the whole energy of the bay shifts, and extreme heat can also test motivation and focus. But the highs far outweigh the lows, and there are plenty of them.One of the biggest perks is being able to windsurf on some of the best kit in the world, in consistently great conditions. Windsurfing wasnt on my radar before 2016, but arriving at Club Vass changed that completely. Being surrounded by great riders, top-level equipment, and reliable wind made it impossible not to get involved, and I quickly fell in love with the speed and rhythm of it all.Ironically, when conditions are perfect, I often feel the pull to pick up the camera instead. After a week or two of shooting, Ill jump on a board for my own fix. Im comfortable on the water, and more recently Ive been learning to wing, which feels closer to snowboarding, another long-time passion. Windsurfing has taken me on an unexpected journey and continues to shape both my work and my life.Watching the bay transform from calm morning to blasting afternoon never gets old. The sense of community at Club Vass is genuine. Staff and returning guests create an atmosphere that feels more like family than workplace. Every week is different, every group is different, and every set of conditions presents a new challenge. That is exactly what keeps the job exciting.THE ALLUREThe lifestyle, the weather, and the Greek pace of living in a high energy watersports location. The growth I saw from my early seasons. Photography became a kind of glue between the social side and the watersports side of life in Vassiliki. It gave me space to try new ideas and grow with support. My life has long been split between six months in Greece and the other half freelancing elsewhere, so Vasiliki became a hub and second home. I have invested a lot of time and energy into it.TEAMWORKIt is extraordinary. When I arrived there were staff members who had been there already for 5+ years and they welcomed me in and made me feel like one of them. Over the years the team changes, but the sense of community stays strong. Everyone has different roles, and there are key people I collaborate with closely to keep things running smoothly and to make sure we capture the right photos at the right time. I am grateful to feel part of the fabric of Club Vass and to have a working relationship that keeps things positive for staff and guests.I tend to stay away from filming the Oscars and leave that to other creatives on site. I am happy to help coordinate certain shoots and assist as a camera operator, but Eion the bike guide with a background in video editing does an outstanding job. I prefer to sit back and watch without taking on that extra stress on top of running my business.For Friday nights, I used to be at every party when I first started and I have seen every hangover. These days I usually duck out after shooting the pre drinks on the lawn when everyone is in fancy dress. Getting a good nights sleep on Friday is more important now so I am fresh on Saturday morning for sales and admin. It is always a laugh seeing everyone the next day and hearing the stories.MOTIVATION AND GROWTHClub Vass has been the backdrop to this daily rhythm, the place where wind, water, and photography have shaped both my work and my career. Its the environment where all the moving parts come together, and where the last decade of growth has really taken place.Through Club Vass, I have developed my technical skills, confidence, and speed while working consistently in demanding real-world conditions. It connected me with a wide network of people across the windsurfing industry and gave me exposure that led directly to other professional opportunities.What makes it special is being at the front line of windsurfing with the public. It is not just about photographing professional riders. It is about capturing everyday people discovering the sport and integrating it into their lifestyle in a way that genuinely enriches their lives.I would not be where I am today without the riders, the guests, and the staff who have been part of that journey. Special thanks go to Ollie Scott, the General Manager, who believed in me from the start and continually encouraged me to push myself further.PASSIONI love the process and the moment the shutter clicks. Being present while everything is happening and trying to capture the right moment is what keeps me hooked. I am less good at organising portfolios, websites, and social media. I have refined editing for customers, but personal work can sit on hard drives for months or years. That is okay, because I love the act of taking the photo itself.EQUIPMENTThe environment in Vasiliki is harsh on equipment. I shoot with a Nikon Z6 mirrorless body that has been properly weather-beaten over the seasons. Saltwater air corrodes everything, so maintenance is constant.My workhorse lens is a Sigma 70200mm f/2.8, fast, reliable, and ideal for high-volume action shooting. For water work, I use an Aquatech housing paired with a 2470mm lens. I also occasionally fly a drone from the boat in strong conditions to capture next level action shots, tracking the rider from almost any angle.GEAR LIST:Nikon Z6Nikon Z6IINIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 SSigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 DG HSMSigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DGNikkor 50mm f/1.4G AF-SNikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR FXSigma 35mm f/1.4 ArtAquatech EDGE Pro water housinghttp://protographyofficial.com/The post BEHIND THE LENS WITH MILES TAYLOR appeared first on Windsurf Magazine Online.

HTTPS://PADDLEUK.ORG.UK/SUP World Cup and Paddle UK SUPER Festival 47 days to goTorbay will become the epicentre of UK watersports, hosting the ICF Stand Up Paddling (SUP) World Cup 2026 and Paddle UK SUP Festival on the English Riviera from 2428 June.The international event will bring elite SUP athletes together with many festival participants and spectators, transforming Torbays seafront into a lively showcase of world-class racing, family-friendly activity and coastal celebration.With racing and festival action centred on Torre Abbey Sands, the event will put Torbays iconic coastline firmly in the global spotlight.The distance races will travel to Paignton Pier and back, creating an impressive spectacle across the Bay.Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and enjoy the vibrant atmospherecome watch the races and explore the festival from our accessible viewing areas.Best viewing:Torquay Promenade (most races/festival), Paignton Beach (distance races).Off the water, the festival village will be open throughout the weekend, offering food, drink, trade stands and entertainment for all ages.Festival open:FriSat 9am9pm, Sun 9am5pm. Trade and food stands match festival hours; the bar opens daily from 11am.Trade and food stands follow festival hours; the bar opens daily from 11am.The following concessions have been confirmed:Paddle UK & Biomate, SUP Race Network, Rugga Coffee, Yak Shak, Shortees, Get on the Water UK & Blackfish, Torbay Council & ERBidCo, Offshore Bar and Bays Brewery.For those inspired to get on the water themselves, popular Have a Go sessions will take place in the Inner Harbour, providing a fun and supportive introduction to standup paddleboarding for beginners and families.Have a Go sessions: Saturday 10am4pm, Sunday 11am4pm.Ashley Metcalfe, CEO for Paddle UK, said, With the ICF SUP World Cup just 50 days away, this is a tremendous opportunity for the entire community to rally behind a world-class event.The Paddle UK SUPER Festival will provide an opportunity for both experienced SUP paddlers and broader recreational enthusiasts to be part of a true sporting celebration at the heart of the English Riviera.Torbay is a fantastic location, and this event will hopefully inspire more people to get out on the water in a safe and enjoyable environment.This really is a great opportunity for paddleboarders of all ages to benefit both physically and mentally from being out on the water and part of one of the UKs fastest growing recreational activities.Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Events, Tourism, Culture and Corporate Services, said, With just 50 days to go, theres a real sense of excitement building across Torbay, and its great to see residents already looking forward to welcoming this major event to our coastline.Hosting the ICF SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Torbay at its very best from our beautiful natural setting to the strong sense of community and hospitality that defines the Bay.This is an event designed for everyone to enjoy. Local people can watch world-class racing from the promenade, explore the festival village, support local traders or even get involved through the Have a Go sessions.Our residents, volunteers and businesses will play a vital role in creating a welcoming atmosphere, and we hope as many people as possible will come along, take part and feel proud to be part of a special summer moment for Torbay.The racesMain schedule (subject to change): Fri 26 JuneTechnical races, 9:30am7:30pm. Sat 27 JuneSprints/other races, 9:30am6:30pm; SUP Polo, 10am4:30pm. Sun 28 JuneSUP 1,000 World Record, 911am; distance races, 13:30pm. All races start at Torre Abbey Sands, weather permitting.Spectators and participants are encouraged to check the event website and official social media channels for the latest updates, confirmed timings and any revised advice before and during the event.Torbay Council, Paddle UK, the English Riviera BID Company and event organisers urge everyone to mark their calendars, plan their visit, and join what promises to be a highlight of the English Riviera summer. Visit the official event website today for more information, updates, and ways to get involved. Dont miss your chance to register for activities and be part of this exciting event.What are the athletes saying?Hannah Kaminska, Poland, said, I visited the UK for the first time after last years World Championships as a gift from my parents. We explored London and then travelled to Scotland. I really enjoyed the experience.I am looking forward to returning, especially with the sprints being featured at the SUP World Cup. It will be great to participate and be part of the event.Manuel Hoyuela Rojas, Spain, said, Its awesome to have a sprint event of 100 metres, that is incredible. It is my favourite discipline, as well as the tech race and long distance. Its everything in one weekend. So perfect.Sara Oddera, Italy, said, This is a new event for many European SUP athletes. I have not paddled in Great Britain before.And I think we have to test the new place and have a new challenge with other athletes because some people come here, some people come to other places, but I think a lot of people stay in their country. So I like to challenge and know new paddlers.Further information and registration details are available at: www.superfestival.paddleuk.org.ukPaddle the English Riviera: Meadfoot Beach to Torre Abbey Sands | Torbay, South Devon Water Polobut on paddleboards? Meet SUP PoloWhat is SUP Racing? Sprint, Technical & Distance Races Explained | Paddle UK

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JOHN SKYE: STAYING SALTYJOHN SKYE: STAYING SALTYFrom designing world-class wave gear with Patrik, to scoring epic sessions across Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, John Skye is as fired up about windsurfing as ever. In our latest interview, Skye talks about adapting to his new role at Patrik, the Patrik wave team, chasing big waves and the upcoming Stay Salty experience with Nayra Alonso, designed to show riders the real side of Gran Canaria beyond the usual nuclear Pozo.Photos: Courtesy of John Skye.WINDSURF: How are you adapting to your new role working for Patrik?JOHN SKYE: Its been really fun and very interesting, but also a lot of hard work. I think I underestimated how different it can be working within different company organisations, so whilst I am doing pretty much the same job as before, the workflows, the processes and the communication within the company is all completely different. That part is taking some time to adapt to, but the end result is really positive and super exciting moving forward. Most important is just the pure enthusiasm for windsurfing throughout the whole company.WINDSURF: How was the trip to Western Australia to go and work with Patrik?JOHN SKYE: It was so good. It had been almost 20 years to the day since my last trip, which was an F2 shoot, staying in the van with John Carter!I got picked up at the airport by our team riders, and when I told them that my last trip with February 2006, Sammy laughed and said he was three weeks old at that point! So, the trip was quite a psychological battle for me, on one side still being super competitive and trying to show the kids how to sail, and on the other hand realising that I am pretty close to 50 now, and my body struggles to keep up with the rest of me! It was super fun though and we scored wind every day. We managed to sail all my favourite OZ spots and score them all at their best, which was pretty special in a relatively short trip. Plus, it was great to really spend quality time with Karin and Patrik and also catch up with old friends out there like Scotty McKercher.WINDSURF: How do you like Patriks work ethic and how he works with the team?JOHN SKYE: Like I said its quite different. He is really, really involved in everything and strives for absolute perfection at all costs. Sometimes a bit too much, but in the end the results speak for themselves with the best products on the market. As most know his latest focus was on the foils and sails and last year they dominated the foil racing scene, not only with their own team riders, but nearly all the fleet also using the Patrik Aeon foils. That speaks so highly of what a good product it is and working with him more closely you really see that attention to detail at every stage. Those last 1% differences are what really push the gear forward.WINDSURF: Do you already have some ideas that are in the pipe-line to update / improve the range?JOHN SKYE: For sure! My main role in the beginning is to focus on the wave range, not only sails, but also trying to define a bit what we want on the boards too. We have been full power with this project and it is really starting to take shape now, with a super nice sail range and some new board additions too. The testing in Oz was really positive from all the team, so I cant wait to see the final gear hit the market and see the reaction from the riders and customers.WINDSURF: The team has grown considerably since you joined, tell us about some of the new signings?JOHN SKYE: Part of this wave project was not only the gear, but also how we market and present ourselves. Originally, we were looking for a rider that was based in Gran Canaria, to help me testing and make the development process easier. That kind of got a bit out of hand in the end, but we ended up with a killer team with a real range of personalities and skill sets.Alexia Keifer is really pushing on the competitive side to be a world champion. Alessio is the king of style in Pozo. Adam Warchol is just a crazy big wave monster and based out here in Gran Canaria too. Leon is an absolute charger, even if now he is retired from competition and just focusing on scoring the best conditions. Then Carlitos Keifer is super young and pushing hard. Plus, we have Sammy Ferrero and Simon Thule that have been on the team a while already. Sammy is just Mr happy, Mr positive kind of like a modern-day Josh Stone, whilst Simon is the testing master and absolutely charges when it gets big. Overall, its a really sick team and exciting to work with everyone. Having now spent quality time with most of them either in Oz or during that Fuerte trip, I am really happy how it turned out.WINDSURF: What about that epic trip to Fuerteventura tell us about those three epic days on the North Shore?JOHN SKYE: This year I have managed to get across to Fuerte a few times. Its so close but really another world to Gran Canaria, so I am constantly looking for the good forecasts and, if I can escape, its a really easy two-hour ferry to make the island jump. I had come on a similar forecast to this in January and scored some super fun conditions, but I never really expected it to be so big this time.I have to say I am not really the big wave guy. I would generally much prefer some medium sized rippable conditions, but as we were with Adam and Leon, they were both pushing for the biggest gnarliest conditions out there and I just got dragged along really! The waves were really big, but also the setup is pretty perfect, so it made it relatively easy.I definitely played it a bit safe, but it was amazing to see Adam and Leon really putting themselves into critical areas. It was great to see it live. If you have not seen the video check it out on YouTube.Watch the epic video here!!!STAY SALTY!WINDSURF: We heard you are going to be doing a Stay Salty wave experience trip in Gran Canaria with Nayratell us more.JOHN SKYE: It was something we have been thinking about for a long time and getting together with Stay Salty really just made it all easy to actually get it moving. The idea is together with Nayra, we want to really show what Gran Canaria has to offer. Most people just think of 3.3m weather jumping over windmills in Pozo, but there is so much more than that. So, our idea is to really look for the best conditions on each day and try to go to the less known spots, find the beaches with more riding potential and at the same time show off a bit of what the island has to offer other than the windsurfing.WINDSURF: Is Nayra still ripping like she did when she was on tour?JOHN SKYE: Definitely!!! She probably jumps a bit less than before, but her riding is better than ever. I am pretty sure she could rock up at a contest and still give everyone a run for their money still. Most importantly really is that she still just loves to be on the water. Whether its windsurfing or surfing, or doing stuff with the kids, if we are on the beach and in the water, she is happy!WINDSURF: Who is going to be in chargeyou or Nayra?JOHN SKYE: You are married arent you? Who do you think is in charge? Ha-ha. Seriously though, it will be a team thing really. Nayra knows the island so well, that she is probably best qualified to make the best calls. The idea is to film and sail with the guys, so probably we take it in turns on the water and on the land.WINDSURF: What sort of conditions would you expect at that time of year?JOHN SKYE: Wind for sure. One of the best things about Gran Canaria is the consistency of the wind, so we really expect to get on the water every day. As I said the goal is really to get away a bit from Pozo, so we choose a week with the lower tide most of the day and that gives us the option to sail some of the lesser known spots that offer more riding, and if we get lucky we can even find some proper down the line spots, so that would definitely be a goal.WINDSURF: Where will the guests be staying etc?JOHN SKYE: We have a house booked in Pozo. Its a great place to be based and if the guys want even more windsurfing, they can literally sail there from 8am to 10pm. If they want to go home with bleeding hands, they can! The house is a really nice place close to the beach and at that time of year there is always a show going on. Most of the PWA guys will already be there training, so if people want to sit and watch the show in the late afternoon, often the practice sessions are actually better than the competition.For more details of the John and Nayra Stay Salty Gran Canaria Experience (6th to 13th June) you can message John@john_skye57 or Stay Salty through messages in Instagram!WINDSURF: What are your plans for the rest of the season?JOHN SKYE: Lets see. I have vague idea to try to compete in the masters waves, but I have to fit it all around production schedules of the sails and obviously family life. Its great to be away in places like Australia, but I miss the kids a lot and its tough for Nayra where I am away. I think she handles it well when I am somewhere like China on a work trip, but if I am sailing every day in Margaret River whilst she is at home running the kids around, its for sure harder!WINDSURF: Are we going to see you on the race course this year doing the Super X?JOHN SKYE: I was not planning on it really, as I have been really focused on the wave gear BUT I just received the new slalom X boards and new LA race sails and they are SOOOO good, that maybe I give it a go. I was going pretty fast the last few sessions, so there is definitely more motivation. I will see nearer the time.WINDSURF: What boards have you been riding mostly and how do you like them?JOHN SKYE: I have been using the PATRIK QTS boards mostly. When I joined PATRIK all the team riders left me everything after the Canaries events, so I had pretty much the full range straight away. The boards were all so nice and comfortable really from the first minute. The board I really fell in love with is the 87 QTS. It is pretty much my one board to do it all. It works great in onshore conditions, but also in down the line, I had some of the best turns of my life on it. I can just push as hard as I want and the board just does exactly what I want. Is also just a great size for me as I can use it in really light winds just floating, but it also stays fully controllable in crazy wind Pozo. Over the winter I starting using the bigger 94L version more and more, as the feeling is the same, just bigger and easier. As we move into stronger winds over the summer, the smaller 82L will probably be in the van more too.WINDSURF: How often do you get back to the UK and do you get out sailing the classic south coast conditions?JOHN SKYE: Almost never now and I miss it SOOO much. Last time I was home for a couple of days to visit my parents I grabbed some gear off Timo Mullen and we scored a fun session at Sandbanks, but its pretty rare. I get full FOMO when I see a storm coming through the south coast and everyone getting all excited about it and scoring the best moments. There is something really special about catching those days and the feeling you get after. I do get a few sessions each year at my Fuerteventura version of south coast, which is a cross on spot, STARBOARD TACK, in the north. Every summer I get a few days there, and whilst on paper it is not really classic, they are some of my best days of the year. I need to plan things better to spend a bit more time in the UK visiting my parents and getting some sailing in.The post JOHN SKYE: STAYING SALTY appeared first on Windsurf Magazine Online.

BOB VAN DE BURGT: RISING TALENTBOB VAN DE BURGT: RISING TALENTFresh from a top ten finish at the IFCA Worlds, rising Dutch foil racer Bob van de Burgt is quickly becoming one to watch the international slalom foil scene. Known for his relentless work ethic, technical approach and growing list of endurance challenges for charity, Van de Burgt is determined to make an impact both on and off the water.Despite frustrations with race management at the Worlds, the young Dutchman showed impressive resilience by bouncing back with two straight winners finalsa performance that has given him plenty of confidence heading into the 2026 season. From testing new gear with Point-7 and training in Sardinia, to planning a 24-hour distance world record attempt for charity, Van de Burgt is proving hes far more than just another racer on tour.We caught up with Bob to talk about the IFCA Worlds, foil racing, life as a full-time pro sailor and his ambitions for the future.Photos: IFCA and PWA CARTERClick any shot to enlarge and scrollWINDSURF: How did you feel to make the top ten at the IFCA words?BOB VAN DE BURGT: Im really stoked about making that top 10. But at the same time Im pretty bummed up about how the week went. I got screwed over pretty badly the first two days of the event. Im not the guy to complain much, but the race committee was truly strange and random. Over earlies were not being called out, and I was completely left about because of that the first two eliminations. I thought the result was already completely gone. But I managed to adjust my style for the two remaining eliminations and qualified for two winner finals straight, that gives me a lot of confidence going into the rest of the season. So yeah, happy about the top 10 after such a rough start. But, also very eager to see whats capable with a consistent race committee.WINDSURF: How was the event for you overall and were all the racers happy with the conditions / race crew?BOB VAN DE BURGT: The venue was great and the conditions were light, but usually there was swell which gave a lot of power. Racing was light, but cool. It was very technical, but exciting racing. Concerning the race crew, there was a lot of controversy. The starts were the worst. Over earlies were not being called. It was a matter of who had the nose of the board in front at the start. With riders sometimes starting up to three seconds early! It was ridiculous really. I really hope IFCA will make a change in the future, it was quite sad to see heats going through like that.WINDSURF: Was the event hard work with a lot of waiting?BOB VAN DE BURGT: Im only focused on the foil, so I had very little sails and boards to rig. Im used to the waiting game, so it was quite chill. In the end we had quite a lot of time on the water!WINDSURF: What gear were you riding and how was it working?BOB VAN DE BURGT: All week I was riding the completely new Point-7 F1-SL 8.0 Q-bond construction, combined with the 162 Hyperion Pro from FMX Racing. The combo is really killer, giving a lot of power and drive in the light winds, which was really needed this week. Acceleration was really good and I was able to make super clean gybes in the ultra-light winds, also when being in the mix full of dirty winds.WINDSURF: How much have you been involved in the development of this sail?BOB VAN DE BURGT: As a rider I dont like to take too much development credit, since this is more of a technical and designers job. But Im very close with Andrea Cucchi. Speaking a lot about settings, tuning and test results on the phone or on location in Garda. Weve spent a solid amount of time in Garda end of last year to develop the sails. It was really cool to be one of the first guys to try the Q-bond construction, and put a part of myself into that sail with providing feedback from the water. I feel like Point-7 is one of the only brands where when you have an idea about a new sail or concept, they can smash out a prototype in no time. And have it adjusted the same night in the loft.Its hard work those R&D Trips, but its very rewarding!WINDSURF: Do you feel tuned and ready for the 2026 race seasonhow was your training camp over the winter?BOB VAN DE BURGT: Tuned up, not so much yet ha ha. All the gear arrived quite late, but its plug and play. For the next events, I will be fully tuned up, gaining that extra few percent to gain an edge. This winter I spent my time in Sardinia, it was the best camp I ever had. We were working with Italian coach Mauro Covre, where I improved like I never did before. It showed in my result now. As I said, I am excited to see whats more in the tank without an inconsistent race crew!WINDSURF: What events are you planning to do and what would you like to achieve results wise?BOB VAN DE BURGT: Im doing all the slalom foil events! This means the IFCA European Championships in Sant-Peter Ording this summer. And PWA Sylt and Japan at the end of this year.For the rest I set up my own event in week 2-3 of June, where I will be attempting to break the 24-hour world record in distance. I will be doing so for a charity called Spieren voor Spieren, which translates into Muscles for Muscles. A charity that is fighting muscular diseases for children. Its gonna be very intense, but all for a good cause!WINDSURF: Are you a full time pro sailor or do you also work?BOB VAN DE BURGT: Im a full time pro sailor. Which means I live from windsurfing. Its hard and budgets are tight, but I can make it work. There goes a lot of time and effort in reaching out to potential sponsors, staying connected with them, etc. My biggest focus is on attracting sponsors outside the windsurfing industry. I believe thats the way to go for every professional athlete nowadays that isnt earning big like they do in soccer, basketball, etc. So yes, Im a professional windsurfer, but its like running a business next to windsurfing to make everything work!Of course Id like to only focus on training, etc. But I feel like this is also setting me up really well with a lot of knowledge, persistence and skill for a life after windsurfing.WINDSURF: What is it like to be a part of the Point 7 Team and working with Andrea Cuuchi?BOB VAN DE BURGT: One word: awesome! I chose to join the Point-7 team 1.5 years ago because I wanted good gear, but also because I wanted to learn and develop myself. Andrea is the guy if you want to learn about how windsurfing sails work. He is friendly, open and always open to discuss new ideas.WINDSURF: Tell us a bit about your background and how you got into windsurfing?BOB VAN DE BURGT: I started windsurfing very late at the age of 16. My parents enjoyed going sailing, so I tried that when I was younger. I didnt enjoy it at all ha ha. It was too slow and boring for me. They suggested I join my uncle, who was very into windsurfing at the time. He gave me a lesson and Ive been hooked ever since!WINDSURF: What did you study?BOB VAN DE BURGT: Business Administration. I was studying during covid, so a lot was done remotely. Which gave me a lot of freedom. My biggest achievement is that I only attended three lectures on location in Amsterdam in the three years of my time in college ha ha! For the rest I was only windsurfing and travelling.WINDSURF: What do you love about windsurfing?BOB VAN DE BURGT: I love to stay in process, staying busy. Windsurfing is a sport where you can always improve something. Your stance, gybe, start, tuning, everything. I love that. Combined with the fact that it gives you so much freedom on the water and living the life travelling the world while doing what I love!WINDSURF: Why do you love Foil racing?BOB VAN DE BURGT: I love that we can get onto the water at every event. There has been so much more racing since the foil arrived. And about the racing itself: I love that its so dynamic. You can take many different lines at the course for overtakes. There is always the risk of crashing, which gives a lot of adrenaline and I think is also nice for the spectator side.WINDSURF: What is your ambition?BOB VAN DE BURGT: I want to accomplish great things in the sport, outside of just racing results. Racing is my driving force, and its the thing my life is built around. Its that competitiveness that fuels me. I want to see how far I can get with that.But as much as I get fuelled by racing, I want to make an impact within and outside of the sport. By setting boundaries, taking records and using windsurfing as a platform to make a positive impact. Being the first one to make the double NL-UK crossing while raising 80k+ for charity is a great example. And I hope to set another example this June by raising even more money, while taking the 24-hour world record.!WINDSURF: Well thankyou and good luck for the rest of the season!The post BOB VAN DE BURGT: RISING TALENT appeared first on Windsurf Magazine Online.

Torbay will become the epicentre of UK watersports, hosting the ICF Stand Up Paddling (SUP) World Cup 2026 and Paddle UK SUP Festival on the English Riviera from 2428 June.The international event will bring elite SUP athletes together with many festival participants and spectators, transforming Torbays seafront into a lively showcase of world-class racing, family-friendly activity and coastal celebration.With racing and festival action centred on Torre Abbey Sands, the event will put Torbays iconic coastline firmly in the global spotlight.The distance races will travel to Paignton Pier and back, creating an impressive spectacle across the Bay.Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and enjoy the vibrant atmospherecome watch the races and explore the festival from our accessible viewing areas.Best viewing:Torquay Promenade (most races/festival), Paignton Beach (distance races).Off the water, the festival village will be open throughout the weekend, offering food, drink, trade stands and entertainment for all ages.Festival open:FriSat 9am9pm, Sun 9am5pm. Trade and food stands match festival hours; the bar opens daily from 11am.Trade and food stands follow festival hours; the bar opens daily from 11am.The following concessions have been confirmed:Paddle UK & Biomate, SUP Race Network, Rugga Coffee, Yak Shak, Shortees, Get on the Water UK & Blackfish, Torbay Council & ERBidCo, Offshore Bar and Bays Brewery.For those inspired to get on the water themselves, popular Have a Go sessions will take place in the Inner Harbour, providing a fun and supportive introduction to standup paddleboarding for beginners and families.Have a Go sessions: Saturday 10am4pm, Sunday 11am4pm.Ashley Metcalfe, CEO for Paddle UK, said,With the ICF SUP World Cup just 50 days away, this is a tremendous opportunity for the entire community to rally behind a world-class event.The Paddle UK SUPER Festival will provide an opportunity for both experienced SUP paddlers and broader recreational enthusiasts to be part of a true sporting celebration at the heart of the English Riviera.Torbay is a fantastic location, and this event will hopefully inspire more people to get out on the water in a safe and enjoyable environment.This really is a great opportunity for paddleboarders of all ages to benefit both physically and mentally from being out on the water and part of one of the UKs fastest growing recreational activities.Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Events, Tourism, Culture and Corporate Services, said,With just 50 days to go, theres a real sense of excitement building across Torbay, and its great to see residents already looking forward to welcoming this major event to our coastline.Hosting the ICF SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Torbay at its very best from our beautiful natural setting to the strong sense of community and hospitality that defines the Bay.This is an event designed for everyone to enjoy. Local people can watch world-class racing from the promenade, explore the festival village, support local traders or even get involved through the Have a Go sessions.Our residents, volunteers and businesses will play a vital role in creating a welcoming atmosphere, and we hope as many people as possible will come along, take part and feel proud to be part of a special summer moment for Torbay.The racesMain schedule (subject to change): Fri 26 JuneTechnical races, 9:30am7:30pm. Sat 27 JuneSprints/other races, 9:30am6:30pm; SUP Polo, 10am4:30pm. Sun 28 JuneSUP 1,000 World Record, 911am; distance races, 13:30pm. All races start at Torre Abbey Sands, weather permitting.Spectators and participants are encouraged to check the event website and official social media channels for the latest updates, confirmed timings and any revised advice before and during the event.Torbay Council, Paddle UK, the English Riviera BID Company and event organisers urge everyone to mark their calendars, plan their visit, and join what promises to be a highlight of the English Riviera summer. Visit the official event website today for more information, updates, and ways to get involved. Dont miss your chance to register for activities and be part of this exciting event.What are the athletes saying?Hannah Kaminska, Poland, said,I visited the UK for the first time after last years World Championships as a gift from my parents. We explored London and then travelled to Scotland. I really enjoyed the experience.I am looking forward to returning, especially with the sprints being featured at the SUP World Cup. It will be great to participate and be part of the event.Manuel Hoyuela Rojas, Spain, said,Its awesome to have a sprint event of 100 metres, that is incredible. It is my favourite discipline, as well as the tech race and long distance. Its everything in one weekend. So perfect.Sara Oddera, Italy, said,This is a new event for many European SUP athletes. I have not paddled in Great Britain before.And I think we have to test the new place and have a new challenge with other athletes because some people come here, some people come to other places, but I think a lot of people stay in their country. So I like to challenge and know new paddlers.Further information and registration details are available at:www.superfestival.paddleuk.org.ukPaddle the English Riviera: Meadfoot Beach to Torre Abbey Sands | Torbay, South Devon Water Polobut on paddleboards? Meet SUP PoloWhat is SUP Racing? Sprint, Technical & Distance Races Explained | Paddle UK

WORLD WINDSURFING UN-CUT: PWA CLASSIC MOVIEWORLD WINDSURFING UN-CUT: PWA CLASSIC MOVIEStep back to 1997 as Paul Van Bellen dusts off a true PWA classic from the golden era of world windsurfing. This was the age of Bjrn Dunkerbecks dominance on the race course, with challengers like Micah Buzianis and Anders Bringdal pushing hard to dethrone the king. Meanwhile, the wave tour delivered one of its most unforgettable moments as the worlds best riders scored epic conditions in Namotu, Fijia legendary event still talked about today. Relive the action and check out the the characters from an epic era in professional windsurfing.The post WORLD WINDSURFING UN-CUT: PWA CLASSIC MOVIE appeared first on Windsurf Magazine Online.