Australian Windfoil Championships 2020 at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron - Preview
by Mitch Pearson / SurfSailKite 30 Jan 02:29 GMT
31 January - 2 February 2020
'Excitement is building for the Starboard foils Downunder Pro; aka 'The Australian Windfoil Championships' which start this Friday at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS).
With a prediction for summer sea breezes over the three day regatta some close and intense racing is expected on Waterloo Bay in this burgeoning windsurf discipline.
A total of 29 competitors have signed up to test their wares against the best windfoilers Australia has to offer. These include strong contingents from both New Zealand and New Caledonia who have made the short hops to come knock the Aussies off the top spots of their own regatta.
While some sailors come to compete for the ultimate goal of Australian Champion there are many others who simply want to experience this new and exciting racing style and help it grow into a successful local class. With the windfoil being selected for the 2024 Paris Olympic games this development should be more 'when' than 'if'.
A total of fifteen races will look to be completed, consisting of windward leeward course racing and a marathon. With the ability to sail to fine angles on and off the wind the races are meant to be short and sharp; two lap course races should be completed within thirty minutes.
More information at event website and RQYS Facebook page.