CORKY KIRKHAM: STILL HOOKED AT 59!CORKY KIRKHAM: STILL HOOKED AT 59!At 59 years old, Corky Kirkham shows no signs of slowing down. After his early years wave sailing on the Northumberland coastline, he discovered the windsurfing mecca of Fuerteventura around 1990 and has lived there ever since. Over three decades later, hes still out on the water every chance he gets, as stoked to windsurf now as he was at 19. From those early days in Newcastle UK to running one of Fuerteventuras most iconic surf bars, Corkys story is one of hard work, good times and an unshakable passion for windsurfing. John Carter caught up with Corky to find out howhes kept the fire burning for so long!Photos: John Carter and Courtesy of Corky Kirkham!JC: How did you originally get into windsurfing?CK: My dad bought a windsurf board on a holiday in Spain! We used to go to a place called Pals, which had really good Tramontana winds. My dad couldnt do it and the family kind of got stuck with this board. I was watching all the windsurfers saw they were all doing exactly the same thing. They were standing with the same stance and I thought, I can do that! I literally got on our board and just copied everybody else. I never had lessons or anything. I just learned from the other sailors.JC: Tell us a bit about your background before you headed off to Fuerteventura?CK: I am from Newcastle upon Tyne. I wasnt sure what I was going to do for a career, so I did my basic training for the Fusiliers. I was in the infantry and got my Berry and everything past that. But then I left as I didnt want to do that. After that I started going into sports and gym work. I ended up working at the Holiday Inn in Newcastle for nine years! That allowed me to windsurf in the mornings or in the afternoons because it was split shifts. The Holiday Inn was two miles from the coast. So, I could go sailing before work and after. So, all through the winter, I was constantly sailing.JC: So, you were pretty addicted early on to windsurfing?CK: Yeah, as soon as I started, I was proper addicted. There was a good group of lads where I used to sail. They were all a bit older than me at that time. But weve all made friends and I can even remember walking into the sea over the snow on the beach to go sailing. We were all pretty nuts!JC: What were the beaches you were sailing at?CK: Yeah, basically the whole Northumberland coastline is insane. There are loads of reef breaks and everything, but mostly it was Alnmouth, Beadnell Bay all the way up to Craster. And then we sailed all-around Newcastle, Blythe, South Beach, Blythe, South Shields and Whitley Bay. All those places have really good waves at certain tides. So, I was really lucky. And there was only four or five of us that used to sail.JC: So what? What gear were you riding back in those days?CK: Actually, I was lucky enough to get sponsored really early on by Scan Row. It was a company in Newcastle upon Tyne, and they actually made the 295 pink and mint green plastic boards. I can remember rocking up at the factory and they just wanted as much publicity as possible! They had a massive factory, millions of masts, millions of booms, millions of everything. And they did sails as well. I think I was about nineteen when I rode for them.JC: And when did you first get the idea to go to Fuerteventura?CK: Well, yeah, Fuerte came along because all the all the guys that were sailing with me went on holiday at Lanzarote every year to Costa Teguise. I never went because I was too young, but I always thought about going. When I was old enough and could afford it, I saw Fuerteventura had better waves than Lanzarote and a lot more beaches, so that really interested me. And then I started seeing the photographs in the mags of Gary Gibson, Farrel OShea and Mark Moore, with the Turquoise water and the white sand and I knew that Lanzarote didnt really have beaches like that! The white Sahara sand and that water colour tempted me to head to Fuerteventura and check it out.So, I went on a two-week holiday and sailed pretty much every day. I met people on the beach that were living in their vans, Germans and Swiss and crew like that. And I got talking to them and they were there for five to eight months. Obviously being English we only got a two week holiday every year and I had to go back to work! I knew as soon as I got back, I had to get back to Fuerte. I made a plan to work and save up and decided I was doing it 100%.I worked like a dog for the next two years. I stayed working at the Holiday Inn, but I also had a nighttime job in body Zone Gym in Newcastle City centre, so I was going to work in the evenings throughout the night as a personal fitness instructor. I did those two jobs for two years, sold my van and then just flew out to Fuerteventura with my gear.I knew I had enough money to last for six months and had I pre-rented a little studio room that had a swimming pool as well. It was in a tiny complex at the back of Rock Caf, so that was cool. I made so many friends during my first five months. The English crew, all met up in the English restaurants and hit the bars. The owner of a restaurant called Fagans offered me a job in my 5th month in the kitchen and that enabled me to stay longer. I thought, you know what, Im not going back! So, I managed to rent a hire car, a tiny Fiat Panda to get me to the beach. And thats basically how it all started. The crew at Fagans restaurant used to sponsor me to go to Tiree as well. He helped me get there and used to pay for my flights.JC: So, when did you start Corkys Bar?CK: Well, I worked in Fagans for a long time, they actually moved me from being like the kitchen cleaner. I had been cleaning the kitchen when the shift finished, the walls, the oven and the floor, all the plates and cutlary.it was brutal. But then they moved me into the bar because they thought I was really funny and my personality went down well with the punters. I never actually wanted that. I only wanted to be with the lads in the kitchen. But anyway, I started doing the bar and I was like, oh, this is alright, Im clean, I smell nice and there were lots of tour operator girls coming in. They would come in in the evenings and eat there. So, obviously I thought this is alright. I was chatting up all these girls and when we closed, wed all go out together. And thats how it started really. And thats how I got into bar workI bumped into a few more people that had bars and they were saying you should get your own bar well as well. There was not a surf bar in town so that was my angle, it was 1993. I started looking to rent somewhere, found a small place, and I thought, you know, Im just going to go for it.The plan was for it to be a windsurf bar to start with. Just for windsurfers because there were so many windsurfers in town. So, I thought, you know what, well just call it Corkys, and well try and fill it with everyone that does water sports, boogie boarders, surfers and windsurfers. I managed to get a bit of a deal from Red Bull. So, I was able to push the whole extreme sports videos on all the televisions and things and everyone used to come in after sailing or surfing. It was the place to be. We used to cater for everybody, and it just took off big time. I eventually moved to a bigger bar directly above the first one. And that is where all the water people hung out. It had the pool tables outside, Severne flags and even a dancing pole in the corner for the girls.Early on, when I was going to Tiree I was with Lodey, and I had the idea to put the Confederate rebel flag on the bottom of my board. Jason Prior was always one of my heroes, so I thought that would be something different. And its kind of stuck. So, then I used it behind my name on the bar. People used to send me all Dukes of Hazzard stuff to go on the walls of the bar. I used to put all the windsurf magazines on the counter and do a daily surf report.A lot of windsurfers just came in to find out the forecast and where to go but then they would have a few pints and the bar would be rocking. There were a lot of crazy nights. We had Dunkerbeck in there Josh Angulo and all the big names when they were in Fuerteventura. I remember Dunkerbeck swinging from my ceiling fan and cutting his head open! That was a classic. I had that bar for fifteen years, believe it or. not. When I look back, if I wanted to do it now, I dont think I would last one year. But it all happened just at the right time. I was the right age, I was single and I was sailing and working every single night! I had to go in at 6am to clean up, mop the floors and make sure we were stocked up. And I was sailing every single day. It was absolutely crazy!JC: Why do you think your passion for windsurfing has never dropped off?CK: I dont know. I really, really dont know. Its properly in my blood, isnt it? My passion has never dropped off. Im still the same fanatical windsurfer now at 59 as I was back then! Tomorrow is going to be cranking on the North Shore. Its going to be 30knots and Ive already got my gear ready and Im excited. Windsurfing is just mental, isnt it?My love for windsurfing has never ever wavered. Obviously, I wouldnt want to live in Fuerteventura, if I couldnt windsurf. I am 59 now, Ive just got to carry on sailing until I get injured or something. I had a bad foot for a long, long time. About a year ago, but right now its fully OK. I think you know, as long as nothing serious happens to me I will be wave sailing. As you get older, if you get a big injury, it takes a lot longer to recover.JC: There must have been many epic days over the years?CK: There have been many insane days. Big Acid Drop days, that day in Cotillo upwind, from the harbour. The waves are unbelievable and there are still many uncharted waves as well. Theres lots of waves here where we go now and sail, to get away from the people and hardly anyone knows where they are. When the big swells come in there are waves everywhere!JC: Has Fuerteventura changed much over the years?CK: Its got busier obviously, but I mean, I have been here 35 years now, so its bound to change, isnt it! Everywhere, changes in 35 years, but its got so busy now. I think theres over 60 surf schools that take the tourists to the beaches, which is a ridiculous amount. Theyve all got the plastic boards and theyre all crashing into the reef and cutting their heads open and. It is Unbelievable.JC: Would you call yourself a competitive windsurfer?CK: I never liked competitions. I was just always just trying to please the sponsors and did Tiree when I could and other events around here. But no, I hated competitions like all that standing around on the beach and trying to be friendly and people ignoring you. Im definitely a free sailor for sure. I just like going out, doing my own thing. But there are things you have to do to get the equipment you know so you have to keep the sponsors happy!JC: What bring you back to Tiree every year?CK: Well, thats the thats the main competition of the year compared to all the others throughout the year. Its a fixed contest window and you are most likely going to get solid conditions. Youre going to get good waves, good wind, and youre going to get decent exposure for the sponsors. Thats the one event you cant really miss, and it just happens to be in October, where Im absolutely sick and tired of the heat here because Ive probably had six months of solid sun, 30 and I and I wouldnt want to go anywhere hot.So, Tiree ticks all the boxes for me. I get all excited about going and I want to be cold and I want it to rain and I want a hurricane. Ive done a couple of hurricanes, Ophelia and Gareth! That was insane, really. But yeah, when that aeroplane door opens and that cold air hits me, I love it. Everyone behind me is unhappy because they dont want bad weather. But I come alive in the cold and rain especially after a summer in Fuerte!JC: What are your favourite moves?CK: I still love the Eagle Wing! That is my favourite move without a doubt I. I Love doing them and there are not a lot of people that can do them on both tacks. Thats one good thing about Fuerteventura. We get 50 / 50 of starboard and port. So, Im quite good on both tacks with all the jumps as well. So that is great for Tiree and places like that! Yeah, but I would say the. Eagle Wing, without a doubt is my number one jump. I like everything, Crazy Petes, arch back loops and table top forwards.JC: Who are your favourite windsurfers?My favourite all time all time from back in the day was always Jason Prior with the rebel flag on his board. He was always a rebel, you know, he slept on the beach and was fighting and stuff like that and we used his logo on the bar! Josh Angulo was always one of my heroes too. All the Angulo family, Mark Angulo as well, but Josh especially. Josh is a good friend right now and obviously lives in Cape Verde, but were in touch quite a lot. He sponsored me for a for a couple of years as well with the Angulo boards. But yeah, hes a really, really top bloke! I remember watching Dave Kalama, US 212. He was one of my favourites and then there was Brett Little and then Polakow came on. That was my favourite era.Out of the current cropI feel a bit of a shame about Ricardo because he, to me, is one of the most talented windsurfers out there without a shadow of a doubt. It is just such a shame that he hasnt got a decent deal really. Mark Pare is ripping. Ive been with him in Tiree a couple of times. Marks a really nice guy. Hes going to go all the way and be world champion, I think. Anton Martin and Braw and all that lot are sick sailors. You know, theyre all really amazing windsurfers. But yeah, Ricardo, hes the one you always watch at Pozo, its such a shame that he cant get a deal.JC: What is it you love about windsurfing?CK: Any problems youve got when youre out there windsurfing just go away. I even just love the speed across the water. I mean, even if you take away all the jumps and everything and you just sail super-fast and youve got that turquoise blue sea flying past you! It is amazing. Its just you and the ocean and you dont think about anything! Before you know it, youre two miles out to sea. And then you throw in all the jumps and all the stunts and then it just makes it 10 times better. But yeah. Just blasting is just insane, especially when you are totally overpowered. Its not the same in England, I suppose with the grey water, but you still get the same rush!I was fishing off the rocks the day before yesterday and a pod of dolphins swam past and they were literally 20 metres from me. I was stood there with my mouth open absolutely gobsmacked. There were about 7 or 8 of them all jumping out going past me from left to right. UnrealJC: So, will you always live in Fuerteventura?CK: Yeah, Ive got my house here now. I dont want to go anywhere else. Ill just travel from here and come back. This is home. This is the best place in the world! Four hours from England with the beaches and the wind and the colour of the sea and everything here, why would you want to want to go anywhere else? Like I said, I was fishing the other day and the sea was so blue. It was like the Maldives or MauritiusSo Im happy with that, you know.Corky is sponsored by:RRD Watersports.K4 fins.VW Canarias.Little acorns nursery furniture.Da Kine.Mission.infoThe post CORKY KIRKHAM: STILL HOOKED AT 59! appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

FROM HAWAII TO COLD HAWAII: MARC PARFROM HAWAII TO COLD HAWAII:MARC PARFresh off the plane from the sun drenched shores of Maui, Hawaii, Marc Par wastes no time before diving into his next adventure; this time in the icy waters of Cold Hawaii for an epic wave session. Watch as he trades tropical sun for northern swells in this action-packed video.Marc Par touches down straight from Maui to chase an epic, but brutally cold forecast in the North Sea, also known as Cold Hawaii. Frozen hands, wild conditions, and world-class windsurfing! Chasing the elements.Footage by Vandsoevisuals.dk and Peter AnjouThe post FROM HAWAII TO COLD HAWAII: MARC PAR appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

VICTOR FERNANDEZ: RED HOT CHILE!VICTOR FERNANDEZ: RED HOT CHILE!Join Victor Fernandez as he rips up the left hand waves of Chile before and during the PWA / WWT wave event in Chile. Victor was one of the first sailors to discover the incredible conditions in Chile and bought a house there so he has a base every time he visits!VF: My 2025 Chile highlights. It was once more an incredible trip, perfectly left-hand waves, great people to share the journey with, good food, and the lifestyle I love. We had some astonishing windsurfing sessions before and during the PWA World Cup. It is one of my top 3 favourite windsurfing locations around the world and makes me want to go back there year after year.Rider: Vctor Fernndez Spots: Matanzas, PichilemuFilm by: Moritz Mauch, Finn Mellon, Niall Mellon, Lucas MeldrumThe post VICTOR FERNANDEZ: RED HOT CHILE! appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

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Words: David PartridgePhotos: David Partridge, Craig Sawyer and Scott TurnerThe annual Paddle Skedaddle was amplified this year with the Double Bubble, bringing the SUP event circus to Hickling Broad in Norfolk.There was a glittering gathering of paddlers in the warm May sunshine, including three out of the four Yukon 1000 paddlers. Craig Sawyer kindly provided some imagery and a glimpse of what paddling the double entails. He is soon headed back to the Yukon for the 600.Martin Rendle is the Race Director, and he waved off his fellow Yukon paddler Kim Foster, who was joining Craig on the double. The double was a new adjunct to the famous paddle skedaddle, created to fill the gap left by the Norfolk Broads Ultra.The weather was atypical; Martin just couldnt believe the luck or prescience in choosing a great weekend with a clear, cloudless sky and relatively light winds.The racing for the double started (and finished) at Hickling Broad Sailing Club, which provided excellent registration facilities. What other SUP race commences from a thatched clubhouse? The race started at 06.00 and was perfect with flat water, bitterns booming and an incredible sunrise over Hickling Broad, the first open stretch of water. The race then threaded through the hamlet of Potter Heigham (under the famous medieval bridge), passed Thurne, and on to the Ant and the second open stretch across Barton Broad.Meanwhile, skedaddlers had dropped their boards at Sutton Staithe, many using the arranged buses to return from the Hickling Base. They soon set off, and with perfect timing, the two fleets combined and retraced their steps back to Hickling.Marsh Harriers soared, otters were spotted, and other wildlife included the odd Essex man. (Martin explained that cruiser rental companies provide minimal tuition, and occasionally, the racing spirit seemed to infect cruisers, who seemed oblivious to the effect of wake on SUPs. (Brushing a few of us off into the reeds!) Other wildlife included the inimitable Eric Amada, who held forth on wrong team tactics and made everyone crack up.The racing was tight and competitive. The skedaddle is a race, after all, and there are time limits to reach key points along the route (with an offer for the sweeper safety boats to pick up stragglers). The usual circus of familiar faces and boards joined in with some excellent examples of teamwork, with leaders cooperating on fast draft trains with lots of place changes. The race was visible on the web server, which made it exciting to watch!The competition is for SUPs, but it was great to see a three-man team of lifesavers paddling prone (in an epic time of 3.48 for the standard skedaddle). They were fundraising, had just completed a big swim, and were heading out for runs the following day.Other paddling was represented with a smattering of surf skis.Tandem SUP was represented once again by the ever-present, ever-ready, ever-smiling Swinsco and Rennie combo. They smashed the course record for SUP, finishing the 52 km in just under six hours! They were awarded first place (out of 1) for the double skedaddle.The racing in the double was tight behind them, with Gavin Symonds and PJ Simmons in an enduring race that saw a tight finish. Gavin just powered ahead in the last turn to take the win with 6 hrs 3 minutes 30, and PJ was just 20 seconds behind. Third was Paul Drake.There were some fantastic results in the larger skedaddle fleets over 26 km. Local legend Charlie Wagg posted 3hrs 4 minutes to take the podium, followed by Leon Warrington and Moz Roberts (delighted with his result), commenting, Great couple of days in Norfolk. We raced 26.5k yesterday atThe Paddle Skedaddle. The Sun was out, and as ever here, so was the wind!Pauladid amazing with a 4th in a strong womens fleet! Chuffed to get third in the mens event after a long battle withLeon, well done, pal.Paula Skeoch Roberts was fourth, beaten by Gemma Palmer Dighton, Karis Parker, and the blisteringly fast Nat Rendle, who came in at 3 hrs 25.In the ISUPs, male Shaun Dole (2), Kevin Last (3), and Neil Painter (1) shone. In the 14-foot inflatable females (it had to be said!!), Nicola Park(3), Angela Kerr (2), and Michaela Afford (1) shone.There was also close racing in the sub-14-foot categories, with Imogen Terry, Deborah Howard, Steven Bax, and Connor Grant all very quick.So what was that wind? Well, over the day, the wind did pick up a little, and a steady headwind greeted paddlers down the Heigham stretch to Martham. But turning the corner, a blessed tail wind assisted all over the final Hickling crossing. What a grand finish with a little hook and head up to cruise into the Sailing Club. The course is almost circular, so, at some point, there should be a favourable wind.ShoreTees, Infinity, and Starboard were all on hand to demonstrate their wares and offer prizes. Organisation was seamless, and the pub was literally next door. There was also a wonderful camping offer at Hickling Barn. This is a great race, and the cut-offs are generous, so there are really no excuses for people with a bit of experience (one of the inflatable men had not paddled more than 6 km before!). The welcome is brilliant, and everyone is on hand to help.So, memories and reflections: Its stunning scenery, not always windy, great organisation, and once again, a happy gathering of the SUP family. Huge thanks to Martin Rendle and all the crew at Norfolk SUP Racing, Hickling Barns, and the sailing club, all of whom made everyone most welcome.Who is back again next year, and who would like to take part? Its another 5-star recommendation after a great spring and early summer of SUP this year.Full resultswww.webscorer.com/race?raceid=389386Racepage:www.norfolksupracing.co.ukThere will be loads of images and other materials to follow, but thanks to Craig Sawyer and Scott Turner for allowing me to use a couple now!

FINDING THE FLOW: FLORIAN JUNG.FINDING THE FLOW: FLORIAN JUNG.For Florian Jung, windsurfing has always been more than just a sport; its a way of life, a mindset and a vehicle for meaningful change. We caught up with Florian to talk about his roots, the evolution of his career, and what it means to find true flowon the water and beyond.Photos: Courtesy Florian Jung, Fish Bowl Diaries / WWT andSam Tom.Tell us a bit about your background, where you are from, and how you got into windsurfing.FJ: I was born in southwest Germany, in a city called Saarbrcken. My first windsurfing experiences happened on a small local lake, but it didnt take long for me to realize that this was exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I was 14 at the time and started looking for ways to pursue the sport more seriously. Living far from the ocean meant I had to get creative. I built my own land-based windsurf setup, mounting foot straps and a sail onto a skateboard and launching off a ramp into a river. It might sound wild, but thats how I started learning my first moves.At 17, I got accepted into the Maui Ocean Academy, a windsurf boarding school in Maui. That experience laid the foundation for everything that followed. It gave me the belief that even if youre born far from the ocean, with the right mindset and determination, you can make anything happen. Thats been a theme throughout my journey.When did you first start competing?FJ: My first competition was around 2003, when I was 18. Compared to others, I got into competing relatively late. And while I enjoyed it, I always felt more drawn to free sailing and the creative side of the sport rather than the rigid structure of contests.What were your goals and motivation while competing on tour?FJ:I competed to deliver results for my sponsors and to push myself, of course. But I was never focused solely on winning. The truth is, I wasnt obsessed with learning every contest move like the double forward loop or the pushloop-forward. I wanted to preserve my physical health after two ripped ACL in my knee and stay true to my love for the sport. My energy went into films like Dont Let Go, doing adventure trip in Alaska, Namibia or crossing the Atlantic on a awareness expedition, or simply working on my social impact project Mon Coeur. It was always about creating stories that matter to me, not just ticking podium boxes.Where do you live Cape Town or Europe?FJ: My life is pretty evenly split between Cape Town and Europe. I spend about six months a year in South Africa and the rest traveling around Europe for events, photo shoots, and my coaching camps. That mix works perfectly for me.What do you love about Cape Town?FJ: Cape Town is one of the most complete places Ive ever been. The conditions for training are world-class, the city itself is vibrant and creative, and it attracts people from all walks of life who are doing interesting things. I love the lifestyle, the climate, and the endless opportunities to be in the ocean, whether its surfing, windsurfing, wingfoiling or swimming.Its also where I run a social impact initiative. Weve started a school in a township that teaches life skills to local kids. I want to give back and help shape the next generation of changemakers.Tell us about your house in Cape Town and some of the projects youre involved in.FJ: Around ten years ago, I discovered a special spot in Scarborough, a small village just south of Cape Town. Together with a friend, I built a sustainable house using hemp-based construction. Its small but has everything I need, and it reflects my values, simplicity, sustainability and living close to nature.Beyond windsurfing, Im deeply involved in a non-profit project called Moncoeur that I founded after my first trip to South Africa about 18 years ago. Four years ago, we added our own learning center called Inspire Hub. Its a platform where we empower young people from underprivileged communities by offering them access to workshops, TED-style talks, and sports programs. Athletes, creators and thought leaders come together there to share knowledge and spark change. Its grown into something meaningful, and Im proud to see the ripple effects its creating.When did you join GUNSAILS?FJ: Ive been connected to GUNSAILS since 2001. I actually started working in their warehouse at 14 to fund my first trip to Maui. Since then, the bond has only grown stronger. The company is based in Saarbrcken, just like me, and over the years Ive built close relationships with almost everyone in the team.Have you been involved in the sail design process?FJ: Yes, especially with the development of our wave sail, the Seal. Ive contributed a lot of input based on my on-the-water experience. Of course, the real technical work is handled by Renato Molotti, our designer in Tarifa. But we collaborate closely to ensure the sails reflect what riders truly need.How important is it for you that the brands you represent are eco-friendly?FJ: Its absolutely essential. As water sports athletes, we depend on nature every single day. I believe its our responsibility to protect what gives us so much. I want the brands I work with to reflect those values, not just in their marketing, but in their operations, their materials, and their mindset.Starboard and Gunsails are a good example, theyre truly leading the way in sustainability within the windsurfing industry. For me, its not just about riding for the best-performing gear. Its about partnering with companies that understand their role in creating a better future.Do you still push yourself as hard as possible while free sailing?FJ: I still push myself, but in a much smarter way these days. My sessions are more focused, often no longer than 90 minutes, but every minute is intentional. That way, I reduce injury risk and stay fully engaged. Over time, my priorities have shifted. Now, its more about refining my wave timing, adding more style to my moves, learning new techniques, or simply enjoying the process of progressing consistently. Windsurfing never gets old because the ocean is never the same twice; youre constantly adapting. Your gear matters, sure, but so does your mindset and how you show up on the water. Theres always more to learn.What are your goals when youre free sailing?FJ: My main goal is to be fully present. I set small objectives that keep me focused and evolving. For example, if the waves are good, I might aim to land a clean aerial into a solid bottom turn, or link three powerful turns on one wave with total control. These little challenges make me feel like Im progressing and more importantly, they help me stay in the moment and truly enjoy the ride.Where do you see yourself in ten years?FJ: Even if Im not competing as a pro anymore, I see life as a journey of continuous growth. Ive discovered a passion for building meaningful projects that go beyond windsurfing, especially in the realm of social entrepreneurship. Creating value, offering inspiration, and sharing what Ive learned through camps or community-based initiatives gives me a strong sense of purpose.Im fascinated by what it takes to find flow in life; not just on the water. The mindset, the tools, and the environment it requires. In the next decade, I want to continue building a platform that helps others access that same feeling. Whether its through coaching, retreats, or just living a meaningful life.Do you miss not doing the full PWA tour anymore, and why did you stop?FJ: Over the years, my priorities have evolved. Ive found meaning in different parts of life, especially being a dad. With two young kids, I want to be present and spend as much time with them as possible. Naturally, that leaves less room for a full competition calendar. Still, certain events continue to spark my curiosity, places like Chile, Peru or Fiji are always tempting. So Im not ruling out the occasional comeback.That said, the drive to follow the entire tour just isnt there anymore. My focus has shifted toward purpose-driven projects and meaningful experiences. Of course, I do miss the windsurfing bubble, those moments with the crew, the shared sessions and road trips. Many of my closest friends today, Camille, Boujmaa, Leon Jamaer, John Skye, Graham Ezzy, Julian Salmonn and many others are people I met on tour. That bond is something truly special.What is the move youre most proud of? The Rodeo; do you have a sequence?FJ: One move I came up with is a unique variation of the Rodeo Flip, which I called the Ocean Jump. Its a twist on the cheese roll, done switch stance with your back facing the sail, a pretty wild setup and definitely not the easiest thing to land. To this day, I dont know anyone else whos pulled it off.But honestly, the moves that excite me most arent necessarily the most technical, theyre the ones that feel the best. A clean, well-timed aerial or a stylish goiter still give me that buzz. The beauty of windsurfing is that it keeps evolving, and so do we. Every session is a chance to grow. Thats why Ill keep coming back to the water. Windsurfing isnt just a sport, its a way of life.For more info on Florians projects, coaching camps, and upcoming experiences: www.florianjung.comThe post FINDING THE FLOW: FLORIAN JUNG. appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

WINDSURF NEWS BULLETINWINDSURF NEWS BULLETINJust when we thought the dust had settled on the transfer marketbosh! News has just dropped that 27-time world champion Antoine Albeau is making the move to Severne. This major shift could rock the world of speed now Severne have both Bjorn Dunkerbeck and Antoine Albeau on the teammore about this major news as we get stuck in to the bulletin!Meanwhile, as the European windsurfing scene transitions from waves to racing and freeride, its the perfect time to catch up on everything happening across the breaks, speed strips, beaches, and lakes. Weve got a full round-up of recent competition highlights, plus a preview of whats coming up next in the unpredictable world of windsurfing.ANTOINE ALBEAUThe signing or Albeau a massive move for Severne and will mean the brand will now have both Albeau, Dunkerbeck and Matteo Iachino on the racing team. No doubt the main focus of this signing will be Antoines speed campaigns and Severne will no doubt be hoping he breaks the world record again this Autumn in Lderitz. Apparently, there could be some new developments in the pipeline so stay tuned for any updates!Severne tell us:A Legendary DecisionAfter an unprecedented 28 years with the same brand, Albeaus move to SEVERNE represents more than a sponsorship change; its a declaration of intent from one of windsurfings greatest legends.Yes, its true that after 27 years, changing is a really monumental shift, explains Albeau. But in the end, every story has an end. I saw that Severne is progressing significantly with their development. Theyve been improving a lot in terms of performance these last few years. So why not join them? This will give me motivation as well.R&D and Innovation FocusWhat truly excites Antoine about joining SEVERNE goes beyond racing its the return to active equipment development.Ive been involved in development all my life. I was testing a lot with the designers, sails and boards, and this was missing in my past few years, he explains. To start again, to test the sails, to test the boards, to try to make the best, the best of the best, is really a target for me.Albeau will join SEVERNE as a rider and an R&D crew, working alongside Cedric Bordes and reigning World Champion Matteo Iachino to push the boundaries of performance across SEVERNEs race lineupfrom the Mach and Hydro to cutting-edge speed prototypes.Breaking the 100 km/h BarrierWhile Antoine may have stepped back from PWA racing, his hunger for speed records burns brighter than ever. Since breaking his first speed world record in 2008, no one has matched his achievements; a record hes broken multiple times, most recently in 2024.Since 2008, when I first broke the world speed record, no one has beaten it. Next November, I will be in Lderitz, and I hope that we are going to reach 100 km/h, Albeau declares, his eyes firmly set on windsurfings ultimate speed barrier.A Team of LegendsAlbeau joins an already stellar SEVERNE roster including reigning World Champion Matteo Iachino, 42-time World Champion Bjorn Dunkerbeck, five times Wave World Champion Philip Kster, and legends Jaeger Stone and Scott McKercher.Matteo was one of my biggest competitors in the past few years on the tour, and we are good friends as well, says Albeau. I think its going to be amazing to be with him in theteam, as well as Cedric, and sail together, compete together, and develop together.The Cedric Bordes ConnectionCentral to bringing Antoine to SEVERNE was team rider Cedric Bordes, whose friendship with Albeau spans decades of training together on the PWA World Tour.I always say that hes part of my titles, my success as well, because he was a really important training partner, Antoine reflects. The fact that Cedric is in the Severne team, testing and developing, is really great for me because we are good friends. I think its going to be amazing to test together again and create the best equipment.Here is Severnes interview with Albeau about the new signing!Antoine, after 28 years with the same brand, this is a monumental change in your career. What ultimately led you to make this decision to join the Severne team?Yes, its true that after 27 years, changing is a really monumental shift. But in the end, every story has an end. I saw that Severne is progressing significantly with their development. Theyve been improving a lot in terms of performance these last few years. So why not join them? This will give me motivation as well.One of the leading people in getting you into the Severne brand was Cedric Bordes. What is your relationship and history with Cedric?Its true that its a long story with Cedric because we spent many years training together on the tour. I always say that hes part of my titles, my success as well, because he was a really important training partner. The fact that Cedric is in the Severne team, testing and developing, is really great for me because we are good friends. I think its going to be amazing to test together again and create the best equipment.What aspects of Severnes technical approach to product design excited you the most as an athlete who has always pushed the boundaries of performance?Ive been involved in development all my life. I was testing a lot with the designers, sails and boards, and this was missing in my past few years. To start again, to test the sails, to test the boards, to try to make the best, the best of the best, is really a target for me. Its very important to have a new goal and create the best equipment. Joining Severne is really good for me because Ive been talking with them for a few months now. I spoke with Ben Severne first, and all the other guys working with him, and we connected really nicely.Beyond the competitive aspect, what personally excites you most about this new chapter with Severne?Joining Severne is really good for me because, as I said, Ive been talking with them for a few months now. I spoke with Ben Severne first and all the other guys working with him, and we connected really nicely. Theyre really interested in having me in the team, and I think were going to do something great. Theyre going to push me the way I want, and were going to make nice sails and nice boards.Youve recently broken the speed world record again, proving your continued dominance. How does joining Severne match your ambitions to continue pushing those boundaries and possibly break that record again?Since 2008, when I first broke the world speed record, no one has beaten it. It has always been mine. Ive broken it many times now, and the last time was in 2024. To do that, you really need to have serious people behind you, pushing you to the limit, making the best equipment, making exactly what you need for that. Next November, I will be in Lderitz, and I hope that we are going to reach 100 km/h.The windsurfing world has evolved significantly throughout your career. How do you see this partnership contributing to the next evolution of the sport, especially for the next generation of riders?Its good that the sport has a lot of evolution. Windsurfing is not dying, and its a great sport. Its amazing. I try to go windsurfing all the time, as much as I want and can.Youve been one of the leaders of windsurfing innovation for decades. How do you see your involvement in Severnes R&D program shaping the future of Severnes racing products?Actually, I will be working with Cedric and Matteo. Matteo was one of my biggest competitors in the past few years on the tour, and we are good friends as well. I think its going to be amazing to be with him in the team, as well as Cedric, and sail together, compete together, and develop together.If we were to look back on this partnership five years from now, what would you hope to have accomplished together with Severne that would make this decision truly historic?If we look five years ahead, I would like to break a lot of records again, maybe win some world titles with Severne. That would be amazing. And just enjoy as much time as possible on the water.You have won basically anything there is to win. What is your focus now?My focus now will definitely be speed. Im working a lot on my Zephir project to achieve the World Record. My focus now is to go to Lderitz and break the world record, and pass the barrier of 100 kilometers per hour. Well see what we can do in the Dfi Wind as well. I would like to have a good result there, and why not win?PWA GUADELOUPEWell, there was only one day of wind in Guadeloupe with three rounds of racing so that made it do or die for many of the sailors. Matteo Iachino was without doubt the outstanding sailor in the fleet with three straight bullets while Pierre Mortefon was a clear second with Alex Cousin taking third. To be fair there was quite an array of conditions with light medium and strong wind over the three rounds, but any mistake meant that you were out of the game as there were no discards to count. Apparently, the fact there were only three rounds of racing in the mens means that the points accrued from Guadeloupe will only count as the equivalent to a 4th place in an event that has four or more valid races. That seems a bit harsh but rules are rules.In the womens racing there was a major battle with world champion Justine Lemeteyer putting here new Patrik gear to the test for the first time and delivering a victory against Lina Erzen of Slovakia with Blanca Alabau taking third.The next events on the PWA race tour should be in July with the likes of Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Tenerife all pencilled in on the PWA calendar.PWA WORLD WINDSURFING TOUR: 2025DEFI WINDObviously, it is that time of year when all eyes will be on the Defi Wind at the end of May. The windsurfing races will take place on the 29th of May to the 1st of June and if you are thinking of taking part this year we have a Get Defi Ready feature on the website here! Expect to see in excess of 1400 racers line up on the start line in Gruissan, which will be an amazing spectacle and shows windsurfing is definitely alive and kicking!PRINCE OF SPEEDJust when you thought the competitive career of Antoine Albeau was slowing down, he has just managed to clock up another world title at the Prince of Speed event in France before his upcoming move to Severne as mentioned already. That makes it 27 titles and shows Albeau is still on his A game in speed. His faster run was an impressive 43.53 knots on the speed course at La Palme. Second place went to Vincent Valkenaers with youngster Brendan Lorho doing incredibly well to take third against some stiff competition including Matteo Iachino and Ben Van Der Steen. Word record holder, Jenna Gibson continued here speedy run of success by taking the womens world title ahead of Heidi Ulrich and Blanca Alabau in third. Jennas faster run was 39.05 knotsnot too bad!BEN PAGECongratulations to Ben Page and his new wife Emily who got married last weekendwe wish them all the best!SHOPSH20The guys at H20 tell us they will be showcasing the Windsurfer LT at the Queen Mary Sailing Club Demo Day on Saturday May 24th. It is a free event in conjunction with Point 7, just need to register here:https://www.queenmary.org.uk/book/add/p/448Remember unlike most demo days we will be on the water whatever the wind!Come and join in the retro revolution!! In case you missed Roger Turners excellent review of the Windsurfer LT you can read it here:Windsurf MagazineTHE WINDSURFER LT: ROGER TURNERWORTHING WATERSPORTSSam from Worthing Watersports has introduced a loyalty scheme on the website so people will get points back to spend on future orderscheck it out here https://worthingwatersports.com/pages/worthing-watersports-loyalty-pointsThe shop also has a filter on their website so you can see what stock we physically have in our shop or that is available from Duotone / ION warehouse!2XS2XS -UKS no1 Windsurf and Wing foil Rental centre2XS tell us: At 2XS West Wittering we have the best hire gear for windsurfing and wing foiling in the UK! Our Centre has a full line up of brand new 2025 gearGoya Windsurfing boards and sails; Ezzy sails; Duotone foils, wings and boards; KT foils and boards and Axis foils. We have a flat-water Trench for blasting at low tide; and waves at mid and high tide. We have at the 2XS Club changing rooms with showers, rescue service, lifeguards and West Wittering has been awarded a Blue Flag beach for the last 20 years for water quality.We have rentals by the hour and hire packages for the season which is the cheapest way to use our 2025 gear.https://www.2xs.co.uk/club/hire/ Call us on Tel: 01243-513077 Email: tuition@2xs.co.uk4BOARDSThe lads at 4Boards tell us they have plenty of bargains going down in their sale at the moment including wingfoil gear, windsurfing equipment, bags, wetsuits, accessories and clothing.ROBIN HOOD WATERSPORTSThere are some great special offers at Robin Hood Watersports currently on their website: check them out by clicking here:Special Offers | Robin Hood Watersports | Robin Hood WatersportsBOARDWISEBoardwise have some insane bargains to be scored in their windsurfing sale which you can view here:Windsurfing Sale BoardwiseThe post WINDSURF NEWS BULLETIN appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.