Next up in the NWF series, is Simon Bornhoft, who along with fellow coaches always gives a lot to the event. 

Windsurfing History

Professional windsurfer for over 20 years

Who inspired your windsurfing

I was lucky to get a job with Dee Caldwell Windsurfing. He was world freestyle champion at the time and taught me the value of getting out there in all wind strengths to develop new skills. Also, Robby Naish came and sailed with us on the River Thames at Kingston Bridge just at the time of the famous Peter Chilvers court ruling on who invented windsurfing. Windsurfing was booming and I just felt compelled to be part of it.

Why did you enter NWF

I was team coach for some of my SB Windwise clients, helping them with kit, race tactics and event nerves!

We had some great successes with race wins! Also, Sarah Edwards came 4th overall in the women’s Freeride Fleet and Murray ‘The Tiger’ came 4th overall in the men’s Freeride fleet.

What was your favourite part of the event

Seeing the huge numbers and diversity of competitors all out there enjoying the collective spirit that makes the event so unique and fun.

It’s what windsurfing is all about, being on the water, being social and supporting those who are new to the sport and admiring those who are taking the sport to new levels.

I’d also like to thank everyone who attended my clinic on Saturday afternoon, I always appreciate the interaction and feedback. Thank you!

Plus the whole team of people who bring this event together – one passion, one hell of an event!

What’s next for you

I have a full winter coaching schedule with courses and trips to Cornwall, Egypt, Mauritius and Australia and putting finishing touches to our expanding 2013 schedule.

What do you want to progress next with your windsurfing

I’m determined to get more personal sailing in over the next 12 months. But my main focus is constantly looking at ways to improve my coaching and developing the most effective skill development systems to help others learn more quickly and get greater enjoyment from windsurfing! See you on the water soon!

Simon Bornhoft is a technique writer for Boards, particularly involved in Basics.

Check out the Basics section here, which guides you through the early stages of windsurfing, plus our main technique section here.