Grassroots Longboard Event
September 1, 2008 · Print This Article
When can an event be fun for all? I was alerted to a video on the Kona website which demonstrated how far longboards and Kona has come since the return on the longboard. The Kona has without a doubt restored to windsurfing a spirit which was really only a memory a few years ago. In July in the northern hemisphere summer season the 18th Aber Wind Cup 2008 was held. While I did not go to the event I saw a link to some great video on the Kona website. Check out the video and see what you think. Apparently at the event they did not get a lot of wind but still managed to have some great Kona One Racing.
Translation from the site:
Not much wind for the 2008 edition of Aber Wind Cup test windsurfing calendar National Long Distance. Fortunately Jean-Marie Guiriec was there with his pack for Kona One the greatest pleasure riders and spectators. The Race Committee has been able to renew the recipe for a funny race introducing swimming, running and even a hint of catch! And this all in the enchanting setting of Aber Wrac’h, Finistère North.
Aber Wind Cup 2008 from opop on Vimeo.
I believe this to be a classic example of longboard racing at its best. It included a fun “triathlon” race which saw people running, swimming, sailing and generally having a great time. As longboard windsurfing grows again I hope this will become normal occurance at most events rather that canceling a race because of light wind. It is visible, fun and has a great family feel to it. More local clubs should be including this type of event in their calendar.
This is the way it was in the beginning and KONA is bring this lifestyle back. One sail, one long board and plenty of fun no matter what the winds gods do. For more: see for a new movie called WIND LEGENDS….. Bruce
As far as “the way it was in the beginning”, I’d have to disagree. The Kona One is stiffer and has a proper windsurfing hull design. WHile it sails decently in low winds, it really shines when planing. It is a fast board. While I sail in most conditions with a forgiving 7.5, I’ve used sails from 5.5 up to 8.5. It does everything well (albeit no one discipline great). It’s even decent in small surf. I’ve taught my 8-year old to sail on it as well with a 2m rig.
In short, it’s nothing like the boards I learned to sail on in the early 80’s (flexy, flat-bottomed, slow).
I still have a 125L freeride board, and I sail that when the wind is stronger…but unless it’s absolutely flat/glassy, I can go sailing with the Kona. I’d recommend it to anyone.
-RH