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 During the 1980s the Island was a hugely popular
location for windsurfing, world tour competitor Nigel
Howell grew up here, it was the base for shapers
Critical Section and boasted a great range of conditions
and locations. After a dip in popularity during the
1990s it has since regained its position as one of
the most spectacular wind-based extreme sports.
Ross Williams ( www.rossgbr83.com )
is our current star of the international circuit
and is pushing for the Formula World Championships
(currently lying 3 rd ); his brother Aaran is also
a former European Junior Champion and a top ranked
UK competitor. Both grew up in Sandown and learnt
their trade windsurfing around the Island's shores.
August 2007 will see the Formula World Tour arrive
in Sandown Bay (the first time in the UK) as a part
of the White Air Extreme Sports Festival. Over 100
of the world's top pros from over 40 nations will
be in action racing around the Bay. An event not
to be missed!
In terms of the best breaks Compton and Brook offer
some of the best wavesailing conditions, the rest
of the Chines on the southwest coast offer some really
great breaks although they should only be tackled
by experienced riders. Colwell, Thorness, Ryde and
Bembridge offer more sheltered locations and are
recommended for more inexperienced riders. Click
here for our Island map.
If you're after tuition then X-Isle
Sports in Bembridge offer a comprehensive school,
they were also winner of the 2005 Green Island Service
of the Year Award alongside their Gold Green Island
certification.
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