Windfoiling: "It's removed the physical element, pumping is not in there...rejuvenated wind

SAN FRANCISCO (#1192) – Here's an excerpt from what your Ed. believes is an important and revealing article (and MUST READ for windsurfers and fans of Olympic sailing), courtesy of the Yachting New Zealand website.

“Windfoiling has the potential to turn Olympic windsurfing into something very, very special,” Aaron McIntosh said recently. “It performs in 6-25 knots quite comfortably, is fast and spectacular. It’s removed the physical element, so the pumping is not in there. What I think it’s done is rejuvenated the windsurfing spirit in New Zealand.

“I think the key is to really inspire a new generation. Sailing has evolved and windsurfing has evolved, too. Everyone is foiling these days. You can capture the imagination of the young generation. Sailing four knots upwind is not really acceptable any more. We are doing 17-18 knots upwind in 12 knots of breeze. That’s phenomenal.”

At this stage, the RS:X has been chosen for the 2024 Paris Games but it is subject to equipment re-evaluation.

Read the full article here; no doubt we will discuss all this on a future segment on TFE LIVE. Watch a replay of Tuesday's show, which has already had over 3300 views, here.

McIntosh's son Matthew has been foiling since he was 10 and last week took part in foiling week in the Bay of Islands, via YachtingNewZealand.org. Main image: A good fleet took part in the foiling week in the Bay of Islands (photo courtesy of Live Sail Die via YachtingNewZealand.org.)