With the BWA done and dusted, the next event on the UK wave calendar is the first event of the Puravida SWA Wave Series. It all kicks off on the 4-6th December with Plymex, two days of legendary SWA parties with wave competition at a beach to be confirmed but could include Gwithian, The Bluff or Marazion. The rest of the series consists of events at Rhosneigr and South Wales, hosted by Bangor and Cardiff Universities respectively. With locations offering potential for perfect conditions for both wave riding and jumping it’s shaping up to be a good year!
The SWA Wave Series are events that celebrate the best of student windsurfing along with an environment to encourage new wave sailors to find their feet in the surf. With clinics about getting into waves, how to sail a heat and impress the judges it’s a perfect event for those new to waves or competition. Whether you’re looking to win, go for your first forward loop or sail a wave board for the first time, this is the event for you.
Over the last few years the level on the SWA has been high, the fight for the title will be fierce. Here we have a quick rundown of those sailors tipped for the top. With a spectacular forecast on the horizon it looks like the series is going to start with quite a bang!
Last years winner was Tushingham rider Louis Morris (Bristol). His strong jumping combined with aggressive wave riding make him a sure favourite for the title again this year. His Raceboard background, cut throat competitive skill and light weight make him a devastating weapon, especially if conditions are light. With plenty of sailors keen to steal his crown Louis will have to be on his game.
The new BWA National Ladies Champion, Sara Kellett (UWE, Tushingham/Starboard/Mystic) will be looking to add another title to her collection. With spot on wave selection, trademark late hits and the jumping arsenal to back it up she will be a danger to any sailor. With a second place at the Rhosneigr event last year she’s already proved she has the capacity to get to the top.
Tom Bennet-Lloyd won the SWA Rhosneigr event last year and will certainly be a contender for the overall title. After a few years at Bangor University Tom is fully dialled in at Rhosniegr, but make no mistake, he will be a serious threat at any of the SWA locations. One of the sailors with a solid forward loop, Tom also has the potential to up the game with moves like the push loop should the conditions allow.
In second place overall last year was Matt Cox of Plymouth university. The GA/Tabou rider will no doubt be looking to go one better this year. Another sailor with a racing background, Matt has the determination and competition experience
As ever with the SWA you never know what’s going to happen, new sailors appear every year and the results are never quite what you expect. Will Louis retain his winning ways? Will Sara stamp her authority? Could Tom, Matt or any mystery newcomers steal the show?
The first event of the Puravida Wave Series is Plymex from 4-6th December. Tickets are available via the SWA website now! www.studentwindsurfing.co.uk
The ‘Puravida SWA Wave Series’ is run and organised by Puravida Boardriders with the support of ION accessories and Vandal Sails. Thanks to the SWA, the BWA and our event hosts Funsport and RB Sails for all their support.
