Get into windsurfing

It looks like fun. But how can you get started in the sport?

It’s clean, fast and graceful, but windsurfing can be a puzzle for the keen onlooker. To get the lowdown on how the amateur can get into the sport, WideWorld spoke to William MacLean, a Semi-Pro Windsurfer with 20 years experience in the sport. The 32-year-old is the centre principal at Tiree Windsurfing, Wild Diamond Watersports, in Argyll.

Is windsurfing for me?

It really is down to personal taste, however anybody, whatever their age, size or shape can learn and excel at the sport. You don’t have to be a good swimmer or particularly strong. You just have to have an interest in the sport and a love of excitement.

What is my first step?

The best place to start is on the Internet. There are a number of groups, online forums and clubs which have websites. It is really important to do your research and find the right place for you.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to trawl through loads of web pages, the best thing is to buy a copy of Windsurfing Magazine or Yachting Magazine. These is will have details of clubs and classes related to the sport. From this you will be able to find out where your nearest club is, or find a club which caters to your needs.

It really depends on where you live too. You may have to travel a couple of hours to the coast, or to a nearby lake or reservoir. As the sport is weather related, the wind speed also needs to be considered. To start you need to find a large body of flat water, which is not obstructed by trees and other obstacles to the wind.

The Welsh coastline, North Scotland and Dorset are three of the best places in the UK. Across the rest of the world, Egypt is considered one of the best places to learn and develop in the sport.

Are there any organisations or groups I should join?

Windsurfing is a very social sport and there are lots of ways to meet new people. The best thing to is to join the World Yachting Association. They will provide publications and insurance....

To view the full article register with WorldWide today or login.