The Future of Wave- Ep.1 Alex Hudson
Competing in your first event no matter what age or ability you are is always daunting. Alex Hudson a young wave sailor from poole, had this exact experience spreading his wings and competing in his first wave event. We caught up with him to tell us a little more about his experience.
“On the drive down to Cornwall from sunny Bournemouth, I have to admit that I was sceptical about competing in waves for the first time. Although I had plenty of experience sailing in and out of waves at my local spots such as Kimmeridge and Branksome, I was nervous about competing in a world class spot such as Gwithian.
Not only that, but my arsenal of wave manoeuvres was limited to say the least. I had seen videos from previous events of howling winds, forward loops and epic wave rides, which all made me think that I was way out of my depth. However, intimidating I thought the event was, upon arrival I found that it was the complete opposite. The BWA has such a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that makes anyone of any ability feel at home among fellow windsurfers. The first day we arrived, Friday, the event was on for the pros and I stood at the clifftop, watching as Timo Mullen and Ross Williams go for huge aerials. The cross-off wind, which was patchy at best, combined with mast high peeling waves, provided the perfect platform for a showcase of the best of British windsurfing.
After gawping for an hour or two, I made my way down the goat track and onto the beach to give it a shot. Rubbing shoulders with the pros gave me a new found confidence as I headed out past the logo high sets. Despite taking a few swims, the session was one to be remembered, and watching the best of British windsurfing take a tumble made me feel all the better about myself!
The following two days, the youth competition kicked off to no wind and very little waves- bummer. Fortunately, Sam Ross was on hand to run the youth fleet and with his endless enthusiasm, took us down to Marazion to compete in a SUP competition in what waves we could gather. A perfect experience of running heats and even better fun riding waves with your mates. To add to the event, we had Mark Hosegood to give the youth and amateur fleets some rigging and general wave sailing tips, something which everyone learned something from, including the seasoned tour veterans. To anyone looking to compete in the BWA at any level, I cannot encourage you enough to get to your nearest event this season and give it a go. I’ll see you there!”
Stay Tuned for Episode 2 coming very soon!
