"Kiteboarding Pro": the kitesurfing game for everyone

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 11:10:17 +0000

My name is André Klein Martins. I have developed a PC kitesurfing game called "Kiteboarding Pro."

I am a sworn translator, a former IKO kitesurf instructor, and game development has been a hobby for many years.

When I started kiteboarding, I wanted to play a kite game, but there were no titles available. So, I decided to create one myself.

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New kiteboarder identification sticker helps rescue teams

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 16:03:09 +0000

The Global Kitesports Association (GKA) announced the launch of an identification sticker program for kiteboarders.

Every year, hundreds of kiteboarders experience an equipment failure, sudden loss of wind power, and get stranded or lost out at sea.

As a result, national and regional lifeguard teams and ocean rescue services are activated for hours - if not days - in search of potentially lost riders.

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The essential guide to kite pumps

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 17:25:30 +0000

How do you choose a good kite pump? What are the general care and maintenance steps you need to follow to make it last longer?

Rigging up a kite is a fundamental skill every kiteboarder should master.

The entire process could take a few minutes and involves several pieces of equipment and gear. There's no room for error.

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31 kiteboarders rescued from cold waters in the Netherlands

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 12:11:46 +0000

Thirty-one kiteboarders were rescued from the water at Rockanje, near Rotterdam, in the Netherlands.

On February 20, 2021, an unusual number of wind sports participants had to be taken out of the water by local lifeguard teams due to an unexpected disappearance of wind.

The lack of wind combined with strong currents kept 31 kites and riders floating in cold 39°F (4°C) waters.

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Dakine wind sports segment joins Cabrinha

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 16:10:17 +0000

Adventure Sports Inc. (ASI), the owner of Maui-based water sports company Cabrinha, is taking over Dakine's hydrofoil and wind-related products.

ASI reached an agreement with Marquee Brands, the global owner of the legendary Dakine brand, to take over the company's kitesurfing and windsurfing segment.

Dakine is currently operating in the snow, surf, bike, and wind sports market, producing backpacks, accessories, technical bags, apparel, and gear for those business sectors.

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Red Bull King of the Air announces 2021 roster

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 12:05:55 +0000

The athletes that will compete at the 2021 Red Bull King of the Air (KOTA) have been announced.

The world's most famous big air kiteboarding competition will run at Kite Beach in Cape Town, somewhere between January 30 and February 14.

The all-star list features local favorites, previous event champions, and up-and-coming young guns.

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Milo: the modern action sports walkie-talkie

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 11:10:42 +0000

Milo is a communication device that lets you talk with friends while kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, skateboarding, BMX, snowboarding.

This hands-free, modern walkie-talkie allows action sports enthusiasts to chat in a closed group and doesn't need Wi-Fi or cell signal to operate.

Milo combines wireless networking, audio processing, and hardware and is simple to use.

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Henning Nockel wins inaugural King of the Wing 2020

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 12:51:07 +0000

Henning Nockel has taken out the first-ever King of the Wing at Gunzenhausen, in Germany.

The event run by the newly-founded Global Wingsports Association (GWA) had good wind conditions for wing foiling's first official debut.

The King of the Wing 2020 was a perfect all-around contest with race and freestyle competitions for the seasoned wing-foilers, as well as a wing festival and rider meet-ups that brought the community together.

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Mental health in extreme sports matters

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 10:44:24 +0000

As a professional athlete, artist and brand owner, depression, insecurities, anxiety, self-doubt, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and epilepsy have played a huge role in who I am today.

It's given me strength and courage to push through boundaries, but it has also plagued my road to success, competitions, relationships, and ultimately, happiness.

I see it in people, friends, professional athletes, and successful people all around me, and most of them won't dare open up when I try starting a conversion, for their fear of crying, looking weak, feeling uncool.

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New qualification rules added to the 2021 Red Bull King of the Air

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 10:45:51 +0000

The organizers of the Red Bull King of the Air (RBKOTA) announced major changes in the qualification process for the 2021 edition.

The competition, which is expected to run at Kite Beach in Cape Town, South Africa, will showcase 18 big air kiteboarders in early February.

The roster will feature the top three finishers from 2020, and two or three winners from Fly To Red Bull King of the Air satellite events.

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Sylvain Hoceini breaks nautical mile speed sailing world record

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 11:40:36 +0000

Sylvain Hoceini broke the nautical mile speed sailing world record at Plage du Rouet, in La Palme, France.

On July 15, at 8:40 pm, the French kiteboarder rode his kite at 39.11 knots (44.88 miles per hour) during the 2020 Prince of Speed.

Hoceini improved by 0.08 knots last year's record set by American rider Rob Douglas at 39.04 knots (44.93 miles per hour).

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Formula Kite: the official foiling equipment for the Olympic Games

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 15:00:35 +0000

The sport of kiteboarding will make its Olympic debut with foiling equipment.

As a result, athletes will compete for medals using hydrofoils and specific foil kites licensed under the Formula Kite class rules.

International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) invited kite industry manufacturers to submit equipment for validation by the Technical Committee.

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An essay on bearing defeat without losing the passion

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 12:41:49 +0000

A spell was cast on Anthony Vandenberg as he attempted to complete the 2021 WaterTribe Everglades Challenge. This time, blame it on the bull manatees.

"Bermuda Boy" once gave everything he had, but luck is not on his side.

The veteran marathon windsurfer will have to wait for 2022 to try and finish the 300-mile sailing adventure along the Florida coastline, from Fort De Soto's East Beach to Key Largo.

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How to sail: the ultimate beginner's guide to windsurfing

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:56:31 +0000

Windsurfing is a thrilling water sport. Learn how to sail a windsurfer. Discover the original Windjammer's boardsailing short course for beginners.

The Windjammer's booklet - or user's manual - showcased a basic yet perfect introduction to windsurfing.

The instructions are timeless and feature everything you need to know to master the basics of boardsailing.

Have you got a windsurf board and sail? Start sailing now.

Choosing a Location

When first learning to boardsail, a good location is essential. You should look for a small lake or lagoon about 100 to 200 yards across.

Since it is easiest at first to sail on a reach or across the wind, look for a place where the wind is blowing parallel to the shore - that way, if you can sail out, you can also sail back in.

Avoid places where there are powerboats. Their wakes make it very difficult to balance.

Do not attempt to learn to boardsail in the ocean. Sailing out through the surf is for experienced sailors only.

Wind Strength and Direction

If the wind is blowing stronger than 7 to 10 miles per hour, wait for another time to learn.

Winds as strong as that are more than a beginner can handle and can make the learning experience a very frustrating one.

A 3-to-5 miles per hour wind would be ideal.

As you get better, you will be able to handle more and more wind and will seek out windy conditions for the thrilling ride they provide, but when just starting out, too much wind will keep pulling you over.

As mentioned before, the wind direction should be parallel to the shore.

If you cannot sail in a location with those conditions, be very careful not to allow yourself to blow too far from shore.

If the wind is blowing directly offshore, you can blow a long way in a hurry while learning.

As a way to counter this, you can use a tether line attached to a dock or the shore (or a small anchor) to pull yourself back.

Thirty to 50 yards of line should be enough.

Tie the line to your mast base or daggerboard handle.

As a last resort, you should be familiar enough with your rig to be able to disassemble it in the water, roll up the sail on the mast, place the rig between your legs on the board and paddle it back.

Don't worry - many beginners paddle their boards back to shore the first time out. If possible, the wind should be "clean," that is, it should approach your position relatively unobstructed.

Large buildings or trees directly up-wind can cause the wind to swirl around, making it difficult to keep the sail full.

Practicing on Land

Before you try to haul the sail up for the first time in the water, get the feel of the wind's pull on your rig by assembling the mast, booms, and sail on shore.

Place the mast base in the sand or on the grass, haul up the sail and allow it to "luff" or blow downwind like a weathervane.

Imagine the direction the board would be pointing.

Position your feet on the boards' centerline, one on either side of the mast (about 12" to 18" apart), and haul in the sail.

You can get a very good feel for what the pull on the sail will be like in the water without the additional problems of balance, waves, etc.

A little practice like this can give you valuable experience and confidence.

Preparing the Board's Surface

The deck skin of your windsurf board offers very good traction when properly conditioned.

However, when it is new, the polyethylene deck may be too slippery for your liking.

The best way to reduce the slipperiness is to scoop up a handful of wet beach sand and rub it on the deck with your hands until it no longer feels slippery.

If there is no sand where you sail, you can simply scuff up the deck with your bare feet.

Don't stand on the board while it is on the ground if the fin is in place - it could break off.

The deck should not look rough; it should just not feel slippery. The longer your board is used, the better the deck traction.

As with any board, don't lay on it wearing suntan oil, or it will become very slick when you stand up.

Note: Always clean the mast step holes to remove all sand before inserting the mast base.

Going Sailing

Assemble the board and rig as described in the assembly manual included with your windsurfing kit.

Make sure there is no sand in the mast step hole before you insert the mast base.

Insert the mast base, lock it in place, and walk the entire rig out to waist-deep water. Arrange the board so that it is pointing in the direction you wish to sail.

Your back should be to the wind, and the sail should be laying in the water downwind and at a 90-degree angle to the board.

Kneel on the board with one knee on either side of the mast facing the sail and retrieve the uphaul line.

Note: It's easier to rotate the nose of the board around to get the line than it is to try and crawl out the mast to find it.

Holding the line, stand up with one foot on either side of the mast base.

Your feet should be on the board's centerline about 12 inches apart and with the mast base right in the middle.

Hauling Up the Sail

With your back to the wind, lean back slightly and pull in on the uphaul line.

Keep your back straight and use your leg muscles to lift the sail out of the water.

It will be heavy at first, but as you lift the sail and the water starts to run off, it will come up easier and easier.

Use a hand over hand motion cm the uphaul line and pull the sail up until you can take hold of the handle at the front of the booms.

Pull in until the back of the booms are out of the water and allow the sail to blow downwind like a weathervane.

Starting to Sail

Reach your mast hand - the hand closest to the nose of the board - over the hand holding onto the boom handle and grasp the boom 6'' to 8'' in the back of the mast.

Lean the mast toward the nose of the board on the board's centerline while you release the hand on the front of the boom.

Move that hand your shoulder's width back to grasp the boom - this is your "sheet hand."

Pull in slightly with the sheet hod while leaning the mast toward the nose of the board.

Slide your rear foot back about 12" more. This should all be done quickly and in one smooth move.

You should now sail off in a straight line.

At this point, what usually happens to beginners is that the board beg, to turn upwind, the sail luffs, and they fall over backward.

The reason is the mast is not leaned far enough toward the nose of the board, and the board turns into the wind.

Remember to lean the mast way forward.

If you start to turn away from the wind, just lean it back a bit to resume a straight course.

Once sailing, don't pull the sail in too far. If you start sailing sideways, you've got it pulled in too far.

The wind must be released from the rear of the sail in order for you to move forward.

If a gust of wind begins to pull you off balance, sheet out quickly with your rear hand to dump some wind out of the sail.

As soon as you recover, pull back in with your sheet hand and resume your course.

If you get pulled forward too far, don't let go with your mast hand.

Always let go with your sheet hand first. As soon as you release your sheet hand, the sail will stop trying to pull you over.

If you release the mast hand first, the sail will continue to pull, and you will have to drop it in the water and start from scratch.

Steering

Turning the board is accomplished simply by leaning the mast on the board's centerline toward the nose to turn away from the wind (head off) or toward the tail to turn into the wind (head up).

What you are doing when you tilt the mast forward or back is moving the board's "center of effort" ahead of or behind its "center of lateral resistance" - the daggerboard.

When the mast is forward, the center of effort is in front of the daggerboard, and the board heads off.

When the center of effort moves back, the tail of the board comes around, and the board heads into the wind.

Turning while running downwind is accomplished by leaning the mast to the left or right, but you are still doing the same thing.

The moveable center of effort is the key to the free sail system, and the reason sailboards don't need a rudder to steer.

That's all there is to it.

It may sound complicated at first, but it's really not - just keep trying, you'll get it.

Proper Body Position for Sailing

When starting out, try to keep your front arm bent at the elbow at all times.

Adjust the pull of the sail by letting out or pulling in with your sheet (rear) hand.

Keep your back straight and shoulders back - don't bend at the waist and let your rear hang out.

Keep the boom in fairly close to your chest so that the mast stays on the board's centerline - don't lean it away from you.

Keep your front leg fairly straight and pointed toward the front of the board. Through it, you transfer the sail's force to drive the board.

Your rear leg should be slightly bent to help you adjust your balance.

In stronger winds, you will move your feet out closer to the windward rail and lean back more to counter the increased pull on the sail.

Tacking or Coming About

Since it is impossible to sail directly into the wind, to travel upwind, you must sail on a series of tacks close-hauled, making a zig-zag course until you reach your destination.

Coming about is turning to the new upwind tack by bringing the nose of the board across the wind.

To come about when sailing close-hauled, first, lean the mast way back until the board heads up into the wind.

Drop the back end of the boom into the water to slow you down and assist in pivoting the board.

Allow the sail to luff and take hold of the uphaul line or the boom handle.

Step around in front of the mast as the board heads up using small steps and staying close to the mast base.

Lean the mast to the side of the board toward which you wish to turn, and the nose of the board will come around in that direction.

This is called a "rope turn."

As the board comes around to the new direction, keep your back to the wind by continuing to step around the mast base.

When the board is pointing the direction, you now wish to sail, tip the mast forward, sheet in as before, and sail off on the new course.

Jibing

If you are sailing downwind on a broad reach and wish to turn so that the wind is coming from the other side, first lean the mast toward the nose of the board so that you begin to sail straight downwind.

As the board comes around, move your feet until you are standing with one foot on either side of the daggerboard well, centered on the board.

Release your sheet hand from the boom, and holding onto the uphaul line, let the sail swing around over the nose of the board so you can grab the boom with your other hand on the opposite side.

Step forward with your new forward foot slightly and sheet in to set sail in the new direction.

Running

From a broad reach, begin sailing downwind by tilting the mast toward the nose of the board.

As it begins to head downwind, step around so that both feet are placed equally on opposite sides of the daggerboard, well facing forward.

Bring the sail around so that it is approximately perpendicular to the board, with the mast leaning to the ski windward side.

Look through the sail window and steer the board by leaning the boom and mast to left or right instead of forward or back.

Leaning it to the right makes the board turn left and vice versa.

Balance is difficult in this position, so you may want to assume a slightly lower stance with knees bent more.

Breaking Down the Rig for Paddling

Should you ever be completely becalmed, break a piece of equipment, or find yourself in more wind than you can handle, you can partially disassemble your rig in the water and paddle back to shore.

First, drop the sail and release the mast base from the mast step.

Pull the mast across the board so you can reach the outhaul line on either side of the booms.

Release the outhaul line from the cleat and let it all the way out through the grommet in the clew of the sail.

Tie off the excess outhaul line.

You may then simply gather up the sail around the mast and rotate the booms up against the sail and mast, place the mast and booms down the centerline of the board, kneel on either side of the mast, and paddle.

The mast does not float, so don't completely disassemble the rig out in the water.

The daggerboard may be removed and placed on the deck to reduce drag if you wish.

Summary Tips

Safety

1. When participating in any open-water sport, it is always a good idea to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

2. Stay close to shore while learning and never boardsail alone.

3. Choose your location carefully. Avoid locations with jagged rocks, strong currents, strong offshore winds, waves, powerboats, and overhead power lines. For obvious reasons, do not sail when there is lightning in the area, even though the high winds may tempt you. Avoid sailing in the surf until you are experienced enough to handle it.

Sailing

1. Pulling in the sail without heading upwind is hard for most beginners. Remember, you have to lean the mast toward the nose of the board to get going. Once sailing, ease the mast back to hold a straight course.

2. If the wind pulls too hard, hold on with the mast hand and release the sheet hand. Always release the sheet hand first to dump wind.

3. Learn the right-of-way rules for sailcraft and other boats.

4. Check the local regulations where you sail. Sailing may be restricted to certain hours or designated areas for your safety. It's up to you to inquire.

Equipment

1. The deck of a new board may need to be roughed up with a handful of sand to make it less slick. Go easy; just rub until it feels right, don't overdo it.

2. When sailing in salt water, always rinse off all your equipment with fresh water before putting it away. Dry your sail before rolling or folding it up for storage.

3. Clean out all sand from the mast step hole before inserting the mast base.

4. If using roof racks to transport your windsurfing kit, use the soft type if possible as they don't dent the rails of your board. If you see any tiedown strap digging into the rails, use a piece of cardboard at the tiedown point to spread the load and keep it from cutting into the board. Dents will come out slowly, but it's best not to get them in the first place. When transporting on top of a car, place the board top side down with the nose to the rear of the car.

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X-Project blends snow and water sports in Engadin

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 11:38:44 +0000

A group of windsurfers, kiteboarders, and snowboarders participated in a unique stunt that combined different sports in the breathtaking snowy landscape of the Engadin mountains in Switzerland.

The X-Project is an old dream that has been planned and in the making for years.

At the heart of it is windsurfing in powder snow alongside speed riding, snowboarding, and snowkiting.

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PWA World Tour releases tentative calendar for 2021

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 11:52:37 +0000

The Professional Windsurfers Association (PWA) announced a provisional calendar for the 2021 season.

In times of uncertainty, travel restrictions, and sudden Covid-19 outbreaks, the professional windsurfing circuit released a tentative schedule featuring 13 stops.

Despite the efforts from local event organizers and the PWA, only two contests got underway in 2020 - Croatia and Denmark.

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The story of Jim Drake's first "Wing" rig

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 16:35:58 +0000

The idea of the first "Wing" rig came up in August 1981 when Jim Drake visited me in the surf editorial office in Munich. It was precursor of modern wing surfing.

Jim and I had been friends since 1977 when Surf-Magazin was founded, and my article about the "true inventor" of windsurfing was published.

So in August 1981, over dinner, we discussed our experiences that we had made over a year earlier at the PanAm Cup in Hawaii - the development of funboards and the first really high jumps over the waves.

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Adam Sims takes over European Freestyle Pro Tour

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 15:09:20 +0000

British windsurfer and video producer Adam Sim is the new owner of the European Freestyle Pro Tour (EFPT).

Sims, 32, accepted the challenge to take over the EFPT after being approached by its managing team.

"I am extremely proud to take on the new role as owner and CEO of the European Freestyle Pro Tour," expressed Adam Sims.

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PWA World Tour introduces equal prize money

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 12:04:59 +0000

The Professional Windsurfers Association (PWA) announced the introduction of equal prize money at its events in 2021.

The official windsurfing circuit sanctioned by World Sailing will award an identical prize money structure for both fleets across all disciplines.

"The Covid-19 pandemic forced the cancelation of almost all competitions, but it allowed us to reflect, analyze and review and change," the PWA World Tour notes.

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Red Sea freestyle windsurfers shine in "Edom"

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 17:41:27 +0000

The Middle East has plenty of wind. And that's always a good thing when you're a freestyle windsurfer.

Nadav Cohen is an enthusiastic sailboarder and filmmaker from Eilat, a small port and resort town located in the south of Israel.

The country's southernmost city is a stunning open window into the Red Sea and a tourist destination for domestic and international travelers.

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Windjammer: the world's first soft sailboard by Morey Boogie

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 16:36:29 +0000

Kransco's California Windjammer soft sailboard was designed by Mickey Fremont and produced by the people who brought you the original Morey Boogie.

In the early 1970s, Hoyle Schweitzer and Jim Drake put a sail on a surfboard and called it a Windsurfer.

By 1973, the new sport held its first world championship; by 1984, it was an Olympic sport.

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Building the next generation of windsurf sails

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 14:43:26 +0000

Imagine a sail that is half the weight and lasts five times as long.

For years, a leading global sail manufacturer has dominated the sailing industry by pioneering high-tech composite sails.

Their popular 3D technology combines strategically laid fibers with an advanced flexible resin.

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Sarah Hauser sets world record for the largest women's windsurfing wave

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 14:46:59 +0000

Sarah Hauser has been awarded the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever windsurfed by a woman.

The windsurfer from New Caledonia rode a 36-foot (10.97 meters) wave at Jaws/Peahi, in Maui, Hawaii, on December 31, 2019.

Hauser took advantage of perfect swell and splendid 25-knot offshore winds to draw an eye-catching line on the giant blue walls of moving water.

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"Beach Time": the windsurf-inspired animated cartoon series

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 11:36:26 +0000

My name is Mark Fiore Martino. I learned to windsurf in 1979.

My favorite spot is Waverly Beach, near our home in Kirkland, Washington. I moved there because jobs were plentiful, but mostly so I could sail the Gorge a lot, which I did.

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Magno Passos wins inaugural Shred The Web video contest

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 10:44:43 +0000

Magno Passos has taken out the inaugural Shred The Web.

The Brazilian bodyboarder claimed the online bodyboarding video competition ran by Bodyboarding US and APB North America by taking out two divisions.

Passos secured the win in the men's open and tandem for fun divisions and a share of the overall $2,000 prize purse.

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How to do an air reverse on a bodyboard

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 12:57:16 +0000

The air reverse is one of the most challenging tricks in bodyboarding. Learn how to do it right.

Modern bodyboarding is all about aerial spins in waves of consequence.

The air reverse is a complex and advanced maneuver pioneered by Mike Stewart and one of the sport's most eye-catching tricks.

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The state of bodyboarding in the United Kingdom

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 15:16:39 +0000

Bodyboarding has always been a popular water sport in the United Kingdom. But, after the first boom in the 1980s and 1990s, how's the sport doing?

Despite the cold water, the UK has splendid surf breaks and great waves all-year-round, with Cornwall as the epicenter of the British wave riding scene.

Interestingly, English novelist Agatha Christie was one of the world's first female surfers/bodyboarders.

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What is airboarding?

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 17:26:18 +0000

Airboarding is a winter sport that blends snowboarding and bodyboarding elements and allows you to ride down the mountain just inches above the snow.

Airboarding was born in 2001 when Joe Steiner designed a light, inflatable snow bodyboard using highly resistant plastic-coated fabrics like water rafts.

Steiner is the founder of Fun Care AG, a Swiss water sports company that has also registered the brand Airboard.

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The greatest bodyboarders of all time

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 17:14:39 +0000

They have won world titles and inspired generations of wave riders with their timeless skills and style. Discover the greatest bodyboarders in the history of the sport.

It all started in the 1970s with the invention of the modern bodyboard.

Tom Morey's groundbreaking wave riding vehicle and design created not only a completely new water sport but also a new way of life and career opportunities for thousands of people across the world.

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Rob Barber: "Brands can't be blamed for not sponsoring bodyboard competitions"

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 14:43:08 +0000

Rob Barber is one of the most experienced voices in the bodyboarding industry.

The British bodyboarder and businessman believes that professional bodyboarding is going through a rough yet temporary phase.

Barber, who runs Bodyboard School and Bodyboard Holidays, also notes that bodyboard companies will only support global events if there's a reasonable return.

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Rest In Pits: a new virus emerges in 2021

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:31:17 +0000

"In the year 2021, a new virus is discovered. By the time control measures are implemented, it is already too late."

"Despite Humanity's best efforts, the virus cannot be stopped. The chosen few survivors awaken to a new world, one of pure unbridled drag essence."

Fueled by a global pandemic that hit the world in 2020, Drag Board Co. is back with its successful video series - RIP (Rest In Pits).

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How Rob Barber built his bodyboarding empire

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 11:27:01 +0000

Rob Barber is one of the most influential bodyboarding people on the planet and one of the few who is continuously bringing new participants into the sport.

He currently runs the Newquay Activity Centre in Cornwall, England.

Barber has written for bodyboard magazines and authored the best books about the sport.

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Tom Morey unveils his Universal Numeral System (UNS)

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 14:57:17 +0000

Tom Morey is a futurist. He works and sees things in the future.

For the 50th anniversary of the original Morey Boogie board, the father of the bodyboard and the sport of bodyboarding is revamping one of his most exciting creations - the Universal Numeral System (UNS).

Tom Morey's Universal Numeral System is a series of 11 symbols or glyphs - ten numbers and the decimal separator - that aim to deliver a more clear and easy to read numeral writing system.

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UK Bodyboarding Association launches in 2021

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 15:44:20 +0000

The United Kingdom Bodyboarding Association (UKBA) has been launched.

The announcement was made on social media on December 22, 2020, accompanied by a short statement.

"We are just getting started! 2021 here we come," the message read.

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Craig Libuse: the story of Morey Boogie's art director

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 10:57:56 +0000

He created the Morey Boogie logo and developed the advertising campaigns that helped build an iconic brand. Meet Craig Libuse, the legendary Morey Boogie art director.

Libuse was born on August 4, 1946, in Milwaukee.

A waterman from an early age, Craig was raised summers at his grandparents' home on a chain of lakes in Wisconsin.

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2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the Morey Boogie board

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:29:14 +0000

In 2021, an international group of athletes, event organizers, veterans of the surf industry, business people, and anonymous bodyboarders celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Morey Boogie board.

On July 7, 1971, Thomas Hugh Morey woke up early and cut out a piece of foam into a 23 inches wide, 4'6" board with a square tail, a slightly rounded nose, and a sharp trailing edge.

Morey had given birth to a revolutionary new wave riding vehicle - the bodyboard.

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The complete list of wave and flatland skimboarding tricks

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 15:30:31 +0000

The list of skimboarding tricks is quite long and rich. Explore the sport's fundamental maneuvers.

Skimboarding is an exciting sport that can be practiced in the waves and on a flat surface with a thin layer of water.

Throughout its evolution, skimming took inspiration from surfing and skateboarding to adopt and create its collection of tricks and maneuvers.

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Adrien Raza: "Real skimboarding is still in its early stages"

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 11:44:22 +0000

Adrien Raza is truly making skimboarding great again as the sport celebrates its 100th anniversary.

But, to get from good to great, the 25-year-old went through a long process of trial and error, succeeding and failing, landing and falling.

The French-born, Rotterdam-based, flatland skimboarder sat down with SurferToday to discuss and reflect on the past, present, and future of the sport.

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The science and art of stone skipping

Wed, 20 May 2020 15:33:36 +0000

What is stone skipping? The art of throwing flat rocks across the water has become a semi-professional sport involving technique and science.

The goal of stone skipping, also known as stone skimming, is to see how many times a stone bounces off the surface of a pond before sinking.

Believe it or not, skipping stones is more than just a pastime and has become a highly competitive outdoor activity with thousands of participants and fans.

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How to grow skimboarding's awareness and popularity

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 15:57:35 +0000

Skimboarding has become an increasingly exciting sport, as the world's best performers take their finless boards to challenging waves.

Skimboarding is the only water sport that doesn't need waves, wind, or even water depth to be enjoyed.

You can ride it inland (flatland skimboarding) on a wet surface, or in the ocean (wave skimboarding) at a shorebreak.

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Is this the biggest winch-powered skimboarding air ever?

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 15:37:12 +0000

Blair Conklin and Dade Shields have recently formed Skid Kids TV, a media collective covering all things skimboarding.

The duo has been quite successful at putting the sport of skimming in the limelight, thanks to a weekly presence on YouTube. Hopefully, they will keep up insightful and colorful videos.

On June 2019, this group of Laguna Beach riders captured one of the biggest skimboarding airs of all time on film.

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Lucas Fink wins maiden United Skim Tour title

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 15:23:33 +0000

Lucas Fink has been crowned 2019 United Skim Tour (UST) champion. He is the first Brazilian skimboarder ever to win the world title.

Fink won four consecutive stages in the United States and was able to mathematically confirm a maiden world skimboarding title for his career and country.

The Brazilian skimboarder won the decisive stage in Florida one day after celebrating his 21st anniversary.

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Michal Ambruszkiewicz wins 2019 Red Bull Skim It

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 10:47:49 +0000

Michal Ambruszkiewicz has taken out the 2019 Red Bull Skim It at Manufaktura Beach, in Lodz, Poland.

It is already a tradition that the holiday season in Lodz ends with the largest skimboard competition in Europe, in the heart of the Polish capital, i.e., the Manufaktura Market.

The prestigious flatland skimboarding event returned to central Europe and was blessed by favorable weather conditions, warm temperature and sunny skies included.

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How to catch a wave on a skimboard

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 10:01:16 +0000

Catching a wave on a skimboard involves two significant variables: timing and technique.

Skimboarding can be broken down into two main disciplines: wave skimboarding and flatland skimboarding.

Flatland skimboarding is practiced in very shallow, non-coastal waters and does not involve riding waves.

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Blair Conklin and Amber Torrealba win 2019 TAC Skimblast

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 16:07:42 +0000

Blair Conklin and Amber Torrealba have taken out the 2019 TAC Skimblast, at Seabright Beach, in Santa Cruz, California.

The first event of the 2019 United Skim Tour season was held under sunny, blue skies, and warm, summertime temperatures. There was virtually no wind all day.

The wave conditions were not perfect, but there were enough one-to-three foot shore break rollers available to judge and crown the best performers. 

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The 2019 United Skim Tour schedule

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 16:04:58 +0000

The 2019 United Skim Tour (UST) schedule has been released.

The professional skimboarding circuit returns with six state-of-the-art events held in some of the finest venues across the United States.

Defending champions Blair Conklin and Sophia Nguyen will battle it out against the world's best skimboarders in the shore break wave of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

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The 2019 Skim USA Tour schedule

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 10:36:01 +0000

The official 2019 Skim USA Tour schedule has been released.

The amateur, youth-focused skimboarding circuit founded on the east coast of the United States will run five events in 2019.

The 2019 Skim USA Tour kicks off in March, in Florida, and wraps up in August, in Delaware.

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The photo book that captures the essence of skimboarding

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 12:28:19 +0000

Photographer Dwight Mudry announced the release of his self-published digital book "Skim: A Photographer's Journey."

As an amateur photographer, Mudry photographed waves for several years, but he felt his images were usually pretty uninteresting.

That all changed when he first saw a skimboarder on Aliso Beach, in Southern California, who was running down the beach into the surf, sliding far out to catch the almost vertical face of the oncoming wave, throwing a huge spray fan, and wrapping around to return to the sand.

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Waterskier Nikolas Plytas unveils slick tricks on snow

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 15:11:11 +0000

Nikolas Plytas has made a name for himself with a series of challenging stunts, such as conquering the famous shipwreck at Elefsina.

The Greek waterskier's latest project saw him take to his board on snow as well as his beloved water.

The 25-year-old from Athens started in 2006 with a bullish ambition to not only break his own personal records but also smash longstanding records laid down by other athletes on the water.

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Dakar Rally race truck tows wakeboarder Russian wakeboarder

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 15:34:07 +0000

Russian wakeboarding star Nikita Martyanov and Kamaz-Master team driver Anton Shibalov broke down the borders between their two sports.

The duo put on a wakeboarding session powered by the rally-raid truck, which has dominated its Dakar Rally class in recent years.

The idea formed when Martyanov saw a photo of a Kamaz truck ripping down a levee across an artificial lake and thought to himself: "What if that mad truck towed me? I could do some sweet tricks."

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Omeir Saeed breaks two Guinness World Records

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 15:21:05 +0000

Omeir Saeed has broken two new Guinness World Records (GWR) for farthest wakeboard ramp jump and most wakeboard rail airs in 30 seconds.

The 23-year-old wakeboarder from Abu Dhabi eclipsed the long-standing mark by Jérôme Macquart.

In 2011, at the Al Forsan Club, a 15-year-old Saeed got into the water to "mess around" with his friends.

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Wakeboarder rides Philadelphia's pink-lit Boathouse Row

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 15:22:04 +0000

Meagan Ethell marked the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by lighting up her backdrop in pink in a stunning series of wakeboarding photographs.

The 22-year-old has long worked to raise awareness for and funds against the threat of breast cancer and lit Boathouse Row, in Philadelphia, for the occasion.

Boathouse Row is a strip of 19th-century homes along the Schuylkill River, and Ethell chose the location having seen the marina lit in pink in previous years.

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Nic Rapa and Meagan Ethell win 2020 wakeboard world titles

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 15:55:50 +0000

Nic Rapa and Meagan Ethell have taken out the 2020 Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships, held in Pine Mountain, Georgia.

Rap put down a fantastic performance in the pro men's final, taking the overall title with a nearly flawless run of 95.00.

Nic threw down a mute mobe 5 and a double cab roll for the win.

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Moxie Pro: the first ever female-only wakeboarding series

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 10:38:44 +0000

Moxie Pro is the first-ever standalone professional wakeboarding series for women.

The inaugural three-event series is open to female participants across the globe for both boat and cable disciplines.

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"Sound of Wake": Dominik Hernler plays big in Salzburg

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 10:31:45 +0000

Sticking to the diktat "holiday at home," Austrian pro wakeboarder Dominik Hernler set out to explore Mozart's haunt of Salzburg, Austria, on a mission to play with the Salzburg Philharmonic Orchestra.

The 28-year-old's instrument of choice is his well-tuned wakeboard and a pair of cymbals.

Confused? Just wait for the crescendo.

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2020 Pro Wake Tour goes digital

Tue, 19 May 2020 12:08:22 +0000

The novel coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic forced the 2020 Supra Boats Pro Wake Tour (PWT) to go digital.

As a result, the organization designed an unorthodox competitive formula comprising of one digital qualifier, two PWT digital events, and two PWT audience-attended stages.

The digital qualifier offers wakeboarders and wakesurfers a chance to qualify for the PWT while riding at their home lake behind their own boat.

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The day Brian Grubb combined wakeskating with snowboarding

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 10:57:33 +0000

In 2015, Brian Grubb traveled to Bosnia and Herzegovina to pull off a magical project.

The wakeskating pioneer is constantly pursuing new challenges, so he embarked on a trip to a winter wonderland to try something new.

Grubb headed for Bjelasnica, a glorious Olympic mountain located just 25 kilometers from Sarajevo.

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Wakeskaters ride the stunning opal lakes of Lençóis Maranhenses

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 15:25:02 +0000

Zuzana Vráblová and Brian Grubb traveled deep into the Brazilian wilderness to wakeskate the stunning opal lakes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

The Slovakian and American athletes, who both had the other-worldly location on their wakeskate bucket list for a long time, were based in a camp along the northeast coast of Brazil.

Then, the duo had to navigate a river and drive off-road for two hours to reach the opal lakes and lagoons.

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The 2020 Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour schedule

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 17:05:29 +0000

One of the most exciting water spectacles in the world is headed to four American cities this Summer.

The 2020 Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour (PWT), recognized as the number-one wakeboard series on the planet, will feature the world's top-ranked wakeboarders competing alongside up-and-coming athletes, just breaking into the elite level.

The tour, currently in its 28th year, will run May through August at prime water sports venues in Texas, Colorado, Oregon, and Indiana.

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Brady Patry rides JB O'Neill as a human wakeboard

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 11:01:29 +0000

Brady Patry is one of the most talented cable park wakeboarders out there.

The goofy-footed rider from Edmond, Oklahoma, is able to perform and land every wake trick, but he is also known for adding his creative instinct to each maneuver.

Whether Patry is riding a classic wakeboard or throwing unexpected wakeskating moves, he always keeps us entertained and makes things look terribly easy.

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