Scotland to host the UK’s first ever PWA Wave World Cup

Scotland’s reputation as a world-class events destination was further strengthened today with the announcement by the Professional Windsurfers Association (PWA) that the Isle of Tiree, will host the Corona Extra PWA World Cup from 6 to 13 October, the first ever PWA Windsurfing World Cup to be staged in Scotland.

Tiree has hosted an open level contest for over 20 years in the shape of the Tiree Wave Classic, and now, with the financial and logistical support of Event Scotland, Corona Extra, VisitScotland, Highland 2007 and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scotland will host the UK’s first ever PWA Wave World Cup, challenging and elevating Tiree’s position on the global windsurfing circuit.

Tiree’s rugged coastline, big waves and a prize fund of 30,000 Euros will provide the greatest challenge yet for windsurfing’s elite competitors in this, the year that Scotland celebrates Highland culture.

Paul Bush of EventScotland said, “EventScotland is delighted to be supporting the Tiree Wave Classic for the fourth year in-a-row.  We have helped develop this event with our partners to a point where it holds immense value to Tiree.  The elevation of the event to World Cup status is a great example of how major international events can showcase the diverse nature of Scotland’s natural assets while also providing a great sporting occasion for visitors to enjoy.“

The Corona Extra PWA World Cup will guarantee extreme adrenaline fuelled action as 48 of the world’s finest wave sailors come together to brave the full Atlantic furies of wind and waves on the stunning island off the West coast of Scotland (often described as The Hawaii of the North or The Land Below the Waves) in October.

Andy Groom, from GMF CO Ltd, organisers of The Corona Extra PWA World Cup, said: “The professionalism of our event team and the massive potential of windsurfing and other watersports to showcase the activity opportunities available to visitors to Scotland has once again attracted the unique and vital partnership of Corona Extra, EventScotland, VisitScotland, Highland 2007, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The financial backing and logistical support of these partners helped Scotland stage a PWA World Cup in Scotland for the first time.”

A strong contingent of both past and present champions will descend on the island for the ultimate test as the PWA World Tour season nears its gripping conclusion. Reigning World champion Kevin Pritchard (Starboard / MauiSails) and tour leader Josh Angulo are sure to make the trek, as will 2004’s victor, Scott McKercher (Starboard / Severne). Brazil’s Kauli Seadi (Naish / Naish), who triumphed in 2005, is no stranger to colder climes, but there is little doubt that the British team will be a force to be reckoned with on such familiar territory. Nik Baker (Mistral / North), who won in Tiree in 1990, John Skye (Naish / Naish), the 2005 champ, Ross Williams (Tabou / Gaastra), Phil Horrocks (JP / NeilPryde) and Robby Swift (JP / NeilPryde) could all be in with a shout.