Neil's Quayside Blog

Team QSW rider gains 3rd place at Hunny

2010-07-13T15:56:00.000-07:00

Team QSW rider Steve Chatten ( Team QSW/Severne/RRD) raised eyebrows this weekend by taking 3rd place overall in the Amateur fleet of the BSA. Steve is in his first year of competitive racing and has already started really shaking up the BSA with consistently gaining respectable placings. This is all the more amazing as Steve is using Severne NCX freeride sails and a Fanatic Ray / RRD Freestylewave board selection. Most of the other racers use full on racing sails and slalom boards.

Well done Steve and I'll keep you all up to date with his progress.

Matt Pearch (North/Fanatic)won the overall event and lifted the Team QSW Cup. Mandy Body won the Windsurfer Of The Weekend Cup for her efforts in the Masterblaster Fleet.

Lifestyles a great success

2010-07-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

So another Lifestyles Hunstanton event has passed and I hope you had a chance to come and see all that we had there from the 2011 Fanatic boards with Nik Baker, to Jem Hall and his Version 2 RRD selection, Thommen boards with a special appearance from Mark Thoms of Thommen International.
Thanks to all of you who went on the Exclusive Ant Baker windsurf clinic held on the Sunday which was oversubscribed again, and of course the BSA racing we held.
There were a few local sailors representing our area like Kieron Roan who came 2nd in the Freestyle and our own Steve Chatten who came 3rd in the Slalom event. It really would be good to see more local sailors at next years event as we need to represent our patch or we will loose hosting national events like this....

So come on and join in next year for what will be an even bigger event!

Lifestyles this weekend with good forecast!!

2010-07-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

So its here. Lifestyles is now upon us and this Friday,Saturday and Sunday we will having a windfest at Hunstanton. Good wind is forecast so there will be plenty of chances for Demoing kit from North, Rrd, Fanatic, Severne and Thommen. There is also racing and Freestyle events being held which you can enter over the weekend. weather also looks great so get yourself along to join us for a great time.

We will also be having a Ant Baker Clinic which costs £25 for the whole day - numbers are restricted so be quick to come onto our stand and put your name down!

Camping is also available with parking for rigging etc.

see you there!!!

neil

Lifestyles only 2 weeks away!

2010-06-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

So we are now only 2 weeks away from the biggest windsurfing event ever to be held in Norfolk for 20 years. Its really looking good with the British Slalom Association bringing some of the most competitive racing in Europe, and with the Freestyle Series also joining us it looks awesome for the weekend. Everyone can race in the Masterblaster series which is solely centered around fun, light hearted racing - so come and join in. You will really ENJOY it!!

Us at Quayside will have demo boards from RRD, Thommen and Fanatic, and sails on offer from Severne and North. Ant baker will be there offering an exclusive tuition session between his racing for Quayside customers for £20 each. Contact me to pre-book your place on this course.

Camping is available for £30 all weekend and there is lots going on in the evenings with bands and DJ's both Friday and Saturday.See the Lifestyle Website Here

Aberdovey 19-20th June

2010-06-24T03:07:00.000-07:00

Aberdovey Slalom event

Neil and myself did the long drive to Aberdovey this weekend. Only to leave a fantatic windy weekend on our local beach Wells. (I understand that the guys had a 4.7m weekend!)
We had wall to wall sunshine both days but unfortunately we had very little wind apart from late Saturday when from no ware the wind picked up for about 1 hour.

At this time Neil and myself were out to sea on 9m.. thus we both got trashed.
After making the long sail and walk back to van to change down we went out on 6m perfect!!
Neil had a fantastic sail in the estuary, as I went out 2miles to find the start of the racing.
Only to find I had missed the racing as the wind then went from 25mph to 5mph.
I was in the shit, no wind to water start and the 3 to 4 foot swell with a outgoing fast tied did not let me up hall. (Yes I kept falling of).
So I had to flag down one of the UKWA rescue boots to get me back.
Much to Neil’s pleasure, as he is getting me a buoyancy add for my birthday, Thanks!

So no scores for us but we are still OK Neil is 7th and I am 6th in the amateur fleet.
The next event is Hove on the 3-4th July followed by Hunstanton 10-11th July

Stephen.

2010-06-19T06:57:00.001-07:00

Wells this morning! Absolutely perfect .... I was out on my ice 4.5m and the wave twin 86 which coped well with the variable conditions. Just weighing up a session at Sea palling tonight Vs doing some revision for my pending exams!

We are of to Wales

2010-06-18T03:20:00.000-07:00

Neil and I are of to Aberdovey today to compete in the UKWA Slalom 4, event this weekend.
It’s going to be a long drive, but we hope to get there in time to see the end of the England match tonight. As you may have seen in Neil’s blog the comments regarding us!! we are holding our own in the Amateur fleet. And the pubs!
Will add the results next week
Stephen

Lifestyles Event is getting closer...

2010-06-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

Just a note for your diary. The now famous Lifestyles Extreme sports event held in Hunstanton from the 9th - 11th July 2010 is nearly here. The event will have displays from street dancers, BMX riders, windsurf BSA racing and freestyle events on the water. Also kiting will be represented with a full live band playing both Friday and Saturday evenings.

All windsurfers are invited to join in the racing with the Masterblaster series of fun non intimidating racing designed for everyone of ALL levels to get involved in.

Click Here to view Lifestyles website

Click Here to enter the racing over the Lifestyles weekend

BSA Video

2010-06-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

Take a look at Team QSW at Weymouth.....

I was the fast one!!!!

Neil

Click here

Team QSW BSA Rankings.....

2010-06-16T16:20:00.000-07:00

So after three of the 2010 season events Team QSW riders Steve Chatten and myself are holding our ground well. Steve is flying in his first season ranking 4th place at the moment with Myself just behind him in 7th in the Amateur fleet.

" We are really pleased with how the campaign is going considering we are sailing non Slalom sails this year" said Steve Chatten.

We now have our Thommen V4.0 Slalom boards so we can up our game for the second half of the season.

We will keep you informed as to how we get on.......

See Our Rankings Here

Van safe and Well

2010-06-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

I am over the moon to report that the QSW van has now been found safe and well. It was found in Northampton complete with all its contents minus some loose change, Ion cap and sunglasses.
I cannot thank the police enough for all their help in finding my pride and joy, and will now be fitting a tracker to her to keep her safer in the future.

Thanks to everyone for your help in looking for her and to the other Team riders who lent me kit whilst the van was being recovered.

So.... the shows back on the road and Thommen is back on track!!

Neil

Team QSW van stolen

2010-05-18T14:51:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday 18th May at 12.35pm the Team QSW van was stolen from my driveway with all the QSW windsurf kit onboard. It contained all the Thommen Demo kit, Severne sails, masts, booms and turfdog and kiting kit.

If you see this Ford Transit Sport (AO09 YNT) van or hear about any of the kit below offered for sale can you let me know on 07717 324440 (Sara's mbl)

Thommen Cross X 87, 97
Thommen Maui Wave X83
Thommen RS84

Severne:
Blade 4.2, 4.7, 5.3, 5.7
NCX 6.5, 7.5, 9.0

North iFront Gold booms 140-190, 160-210, 180-230

Redline masts: RDM 400, 430 x 2
Windgear RDM 400, 430
Arrows Race 490/100
Tushingham Freewave 460/75
RRD Passion 11mtr kite
RRD Placebo kite board

Regards
Neil

Aberdovey hosts next BSA racing event....

2010-05-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

BSA Slalom Series event 4- Aberdovey, supported by JP and NeilPryde in association with Boardwise.

"Only prizes will rain in wales!"

The fourth round of The 2010 BSA national tour heads back to the principality of Wales and to the jewel of the Snowdonian National Park Aberdovey. All fleet swill race but for the first time this year the Pro fleet will be competing for their share of an £800 prize fund! and not to be out done the master blast and amateur fleet sailors will all be entered into a draw to win a brand new Neil Pryde Tempo Sail along with other products prizes such as the all new revolutionary flow forged neil pryde X3 boom!

Aberdovey is fast establishing itself on the national windsurfing scene as a superb destination for all windsurfers of any ability or discipline, often described as the Welsh Gorge its local geography lends its self to some fantastic windsurfing conditions where the mountains work to generate some exciting sea breezes in the summer and the estuary's funnel effect often serves to concentrate what wind there is and give the avid windsurfer those extra couple of golden knots! the last 2 years have seen extreme opposites in the wind strength but both have provided a fantastic event whether it was the 45 knot epic of 2008 or the sun drenched chilled out scenic trip to a national park seaside resort in 2009.

A family friendly location for all to enjoy- not just the windsurfer! Bring the family along to enjoy what the picturesque village has to offer from donkey rides for the kids to high fashion for the ladies (and some men!) in the boutique shops. Parking is plenty and nearby campsites will happily accommodate caravans or tents at very reasonable costs, the welsh tourist Board web site is but one resource that can point you in the right direction-

http://www.visitwales.co.uk/holiday-accommodation-in-wales/

The sail of the 2010....

2010-05-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

Well....

All who took the time to go to Wells last Saturday certainly got their just rewards as conditions were the best of 2010. Steve and I were due to make the trip to Bournemouth to compete in the UKWA Slalom series but decided at the last minute to stay in Norfolk on the hope of a good forecast - and boy it was worth it!

I think the jury is still out on the new reef being created by the dredging of the channel at Wells, but on the NE we had all seemed to be OK. The Holkham end around the West bank was firing with great small waves with lovely flat spots between.

A Little bit of History...

2010-04-30T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ray came and saw me the other day with this image of the old shop in Norwich in the 80's. Those were days when everyone had a windsurfer and boards were 370cm upwards in length.Before my time of course....

British Slalom Association (BSA) racing at Tenby

2010-04-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

Here is the video of our Team QSW guys racing at Tenby, Wales over Easter. Look out for Steve Chatten doing his thing...

Good news about Ray...

2010-04-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

I went to see Ray at the N & N but had a bit of a shock...........he had escaped!!

I went round his house to find him, well, unbelievably well considering. Take a look at the movie to see how he is. You are more than welcome to contact him at home or on his mobile and go round and see just how well he is recovering...

Ray Page suffers a Stroke....

2010-04-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

Everyone on this website, and who has ever dealt with Quayside Windsurfers will know that Ray Page, the founder of QSW. He is the sailor who has been around for as long as we all can remember, and has been there for all of us as we learn this sport, and still sailed in his seventies.
Ray suffered a stroke on Easter Sunday evening. He is still able to talk but is hardly mobile and in hospital awaiting test results. I will let you all know more once I have been to see him.

I know you all will join me in wishing Ray all the best and taking part in adding your comments onto this blog post. Just follow the instructions and add your comment and lets make Ray feel so much better when I go and see him with the comments on this blog.

Ray - Our thoughts are with you mate.

Neil, Steve, Pete

BSA - Round 1

2010-04-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

Team QSW took the 7 1/2 hour journey to Tenby, Wales to compete in the first round of the BSA (British Slalom Association). With over 50 competitors from Pro's to newby 'Masterblasters", everyone had a great time racing downwind courses from 13 knots to 25 knots. Steve had a better time than I as my 490 mast broke thus stopping me using my 9.0mtr sail on Sunday. Monday brought 25 knot wind and hellish chop. I had to give up as my hand were either too cold or I got arm pump wearing gloves. Steve stuck at it and completed 3 rounds of MAD downwind slalom - well done mate!

But the biscuit went to Ant Baker who, after slamming through his 7.0mtr race sail (worth £1000) at 35mph and knocking himself out, he came in on the rescue boat throwing up and proceeded to go back out on his......8.0mtr race sail - yes 8.0mtr. This is bearing in mind I was on a 5.7mtr powered up and Steve was on a 6.0mtr!!

The final results were Guy Cribb 1st, Matt Pearch 2nd, and the big Ant Baker 3rd. Just remember the BSA visit Hunny with us on the 10th-11th July.

Fair play Ant...

Harness Winner!

2010-03-06T05:42:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of our competition winner Jonathan Dutton out in Margarita with Nik Bakers Harness!

thanks for the pics Jonathan.

all the best

Pete

Can you guys help me..

2010-02-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

After my previous post telling how my laptop with everything from customer phone numbers to email address's, can I ask everyone who see's this to send me text or email with your details on it. I need:

Name
Mbl number
Email address

Send to:
07515 553535 (text)
neil@quayside-windsurfers.com (email)

If you know anyone else who this effects can you get them to contact me as well. I appreciate all your help!!!!

Things are looking better....

2010-02-27T15:23:00.000-08:00

Well after a LONG winter period and recently some t@ss@r nicking my laptop and therefore me losing ALL my movies, contacts, emails, etc, finally we see a big low coming over us with reasonable temperatures to boot.
Team QSW are off to Wells tomorrow (Sunday) in the afternoon for a winter blast on the new V4.0 Thommen boards.

All are invited for a quick mad sail in what will be quite challenging conditions, but thats why we do this isn't it. We'll be there about 1pm for the fun to begin.

See you there...

Interesting couple of weeks....

2010-02-06T08:47:00.000-08:00

So with the weather so cold its would be terminal to anybodies wedding tackle, We have been busy negotiating a deal to import some rather good value masts and boardbags. Can't say anymore at the moment as we are testing at the moment but (yes, that does mean we ARE risking our wedding tackle for you!) if the products do come up to scatch it will mean that 100% RDM masts could be under £300 - a £250 cheaper than some other brands!!!

....and just when we though we were busy enough, it looks like we could be bringing a board brand into the UK!! cannot say anymore but watch this space.

Busy times at Quayside Windsurfers, Team QSW, and the all new QSW Distribution!!!....

....who says we have an easy life here at Team QSW!!

NG

Nik Baker Harness WINNER!

2010-01-24T08:31:00.000-08:00

Hi guys,

Congratulations goes to Mr Jonathan Dutton from Otter St Mary in Devon who was selected at random in our harness draw. He was fortunate enough to win Nik Bakers actual harness, which Neil stole a few months ago! it is fully signed and carries his K66 logo!

Well done Jonathan.

Pete

Perfect end to 2009!

2009-12-31T10:34:00.000-08:00

So the NE wind forecast filled in and after Sim Edwards came into the shop to buy some new kit ready for his New Years Eve sail, I decided thats the way I want to end 2009. I headed up to Brancaster for a afternoon sail as the tide came in. Sim was there with Nick from the South coast, and about 20 other kitesurfers, and we had a great sail in the small waves and flat water.
I had me first try of my Thommen Cross X97 and am really impressed with its fast but loose feel. It hadled the growing waves with ease, with the meanline fin defying science (see the video).

So all of you enjoy the New Years festivities, be jolly, and we will see you in 2010 - The year of the first UKWA event to be held at Hunstanton on the 9th-11th July.

All the best
Neil

Thommen V4.0 has landed.....

2009-12-29T13:52:00.001-08:00

My god am I exited.......its all because the log awaited Thommen windsurf and paddleboards have finally landed in the UK at Quayside Windsurfers of course.

All the first batch of the new V4.0 boards(Thommen don't have model years, just versions) for Ant Baker, myself and the shop stock arrived Christmas Eve and I had to unpack them to have a look.

They are every bit as good as they were in Maui when I spent hours sailing and talking with Peter Thommen, the most influential windsurf designer in the world. Learning how he sees board design being simpler, easier, less specific. His boards ARE very, very good.

I have Thommen's for Xmas...

2009-12-19T03:44:00.000-08:00

So its almost Xmas and as I mentioned last month we were in talks with Thommen boards about Ant Baker (K77 Distribution) bringing these excellent boards into the UK.

Well all the paperwork has now been done and the boards have been ordered, and should be with us early next week - just in time for Christmas!

I will be using a Cross X 87, Cross X 97, and we will have a Maui Wave 83 and a Free X 105 in stock. You really should take the time to try these semi custom boards as they sail absolutely brilliantly.

Sadly by the picture, I wont be sailing it soon.......Happy Christmas to you!

Pictures from Weymouth Speed Week 2009

2009-12-10T12:42:00.000-08:00

A few pictures from Weymouth Speed Week including Ant Bakers Slalom Clinic we will be running a trip to in 2010.

UKWA Slalom event dates...

2009-12-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

Here are the 2010 Slalom/Freestyle events around the UK - if you wanna come and join us just call or email us ASAP!

April 3rd - 5th TBC
April 24th - 25th Weymouth windsurf Academy
June 19th - 20th Aberdovey, Wales
July 3rd - 4th Hove
July 11th - 12th Hunstanton (Our Event)
August 28th - 30th TBC
October 16th - 22nd Weymouth Speed Week (we are running a trip there)
October 23rd - 24th Weymouth

Hope you can join us for any of the above events (we leave Friday PM and return Sunday evening)or join us for the Weymouth Speed Week trip ( 8 places available)

A few pictures of the UKWA 2009 campaign

2009-12-10T11:42:00.000-08:00

Here's a few pictures which are on the UKWA website of our Team QSW campaign for 2009. We really enjoyed it and look forward to the campaign in 2010. There are more events in 2010 with the biggest.....and best being 11/12th July @ Hunstanton - The Quayside Windsurfers run UKWA Slalom, Freestyle and Challenge races.

We want as many of the local sailors to support the event and enter the races, even join the UKWA - its only £45 and that includes 3 million pounds worth of insurance cover which is required now almost everywhere you sail.

If any of you want to join the Team QSW riders at the 2010 events around the UK we will be glad to bring you along. Just call us and discuss the dates which you want to join us. We can accommodate 1 sailor to each event or we can organise a motorhome if there's more than 1 of you.

Just email us >here.

2009-12-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

Had a couple of sails lately, with the tanned man from Maui, who did not complain to much about sailing in the cold, grey North Sea !!!!!!

The first sail at Hunny was on my favourite kit ( RRD 105 with a 6 meter Severn Gator ).
I was having a fab time using Neil as my gybe marker and then the wind came to Neils rescue and died.

My next sail saw me able to use my new Fanatic Ray 125 (very gusty day). Took a little getting used too which gave Neil the chance to redeem himself and whip my ass. First impressions of the Ray were that it was a little slow getting on the plane but once there, I had to hold on for dear life. I will report more after I have experimented with the set up in some different conditions.

Stephen

From boardshorts to steamer!

2009-12-06T23:02:00.000-08:00

I sailed for the first time at Hunny since returning to the UK from Maui and it was my first chance to test my New ION Quantun 5/4 steamer I am testing for the shop.

'So what' you say. The big deal is that last week I was sailing my 5.3 Blade and 85 Ltr board in nothing but boardshorts and now I am donning a 5/4 steamer (donning any wetsuit after going bearback so to speak is like preparing to swim in custard after water!) I also wasn't sure how I would deal with a 25 degree difference (the WRONG way!) and would my hands just freeze up after 30 seconds and put an end to my sailing season in 2009/10.

To my surprise the ION Quantum 5/4 fitted probably better than any suit. Now this is not essential as Spartan openly promote that their wetsuits are not designed to fit exactly, but its always nice to find a wetsuit that fits your body shape well. The ankle seals are very positive and have small 'wee' holes to aid drainage if the unfortunate happens. It also has a double sealed rear zip which I have to say is the best I have used, totally eliminating all cold shoots of freezing water when wiping out.

So with help from the ION Steamer, Atan Madi boots, and some Gul Mits lent to me by Michelle Perry (bless her - she our windsurfing 'mum') I had a lovely sail staying toasty warm - lovely jubbly!!

So my reflection of Maui...

2009-12-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

So after a 17 hour return flight and then 7 days of feeling like shit as jet lag took its toll I am now ready to reflect on Maui.

Its a place you must visit once in your life, if not for the sailing, for the wonderful landscapes with simply gobsmacking views of the local surfers riding perfect peeling waves in coves miles from any town. The wonderful people who work in the windsurfing birthland - Francisco Goya, Jason Polakow, Peter Thommen, Mark Nelson and of course Robby Naish, all watermen with one aim in life....to ride the ultimate waves. now this is not a marketing strapline....its actually true. these guys live and die by the chosen dream of riding 'Jaws', surfing massive waves at Sprecks, Paddle boarding Hookipa or maxiing out on a dirt bike. Ant Baker is the best host I have ever travelled with, getting us places and meeting people we would never have got the chance to meet.

The history of windsurfing is there everywhere you look. Kiting is strictly kept in second place to windsurfing and people plan their days around windsurfing. Restaurants plan their menu's around windsurfing, thats how 'in the blood' windsurfing is here.

For the sailing, if you love waves then this place is for you, but for me I have found better locations around the world to enjoy the sport I am so passionate about. But don't let me mislead you - Maui is the true birthplace and still is the spiritual home of windsurfing and will always be.

I will be making a movie about the trip once I get my iMovie to work again, but for now I will settle Wells on a Northerly and a lotta fond memories of a place which will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Ant will be organising another trip to Maui next October so if you have the time and the money - you would me mad not too!

Aloha from Maui - Day 16

2009-11-23T23:38:00.000-08:00

The wind and swells are really building here, so much so that at the moment the most feared and exclusive wave in the world 'Jaws' is likely to make an appearance on Wednesday. This 60ft wave is only sailed by less than ten windsurfers because if you get it wrong.....you die!

Today though it was all about donning your best jeans, cowboy boots and getting ready to 'just ride'. Sara and I went over to Kanahlui to hire a Harley Davidson Road King for the day and tour the beautiful North and West shores full of awesome landscapes and small coves which attract massive waves to break and 60 odd surfers fighting to surf them. Its quite common to see surfers go 'one on one' over a wave they both claimed to be theirs.
The Harley was simply awesome, cruisin helmetless (no helmets are required here) on sweeping coastal roads enjoying the view - something I would attempt in the UK even if helmets were not required, but here you drive at about 40 mph most of the time and its lovely to feel the wind in your hair. I will try and add a movie via Sara's laptop, until then heres a couple of pictures.

Tomoz we get to meet the legendary Robby Naish and then go sailing efore 'Mad Wednesday', our last day begins.

Aloha from Maui - Day 13

2009-11-21T19:45:00.000-08:00

Today was spent down at Kanaha on 5.3's and mega powered up. I hooked up with Peter Thommen to spend 4 hours testing the Cross X 87 again my Rrd Freestylewave 85 Ltd to see whether the hype is really as good as they say.

.....Believe the hype! The Cross X is a true freeridewave wave board but it feels loose enough to be classed as a Freestylewave board. The finish is better than anything I have ever seen, with bamboo ingrained in the deck and hull and top quality straps embroidered with the Thommen logo. The fin is a Meanline, designed by Nik Baker and it performs well although for some sailors (like me) I would change it to a slightly more raked back fin. It takes a little more to get going but once on the plane it just sublime, engaging well but still very maneuverable and gybing like super smooth. This is a board which is a little more technical to sail but nothing a sailor sailing a Freestylewave 95 couldn't master in half an hour on a 5.5 or less. It also comes with a gorgeous white custom board bag tailor made for the board.

So in conclusion - a board which will most things we can throw at it in the UK, and for someone wanting an exclusive product with a custom board feel but is easy and VERY rewarding to sail, Thommen is your board. Watch this space for prices etc (approx £1500 inc board bag) and you can get yours!!!

Hi (aloha) from Norfolk

2009-11-21T05:42:00.000-08:00

Hi

I hope you have been following Neil's amazing adventures from Maui !! (defo's)

Due to work commitments I have not been able to get on the water lately, but hopefully conditions tomorrow will be ok and I can put on my Speedo's and impress you all !

I have just received the UKWA calender of events for 2010. As you may know, Neil and I have been attending the Slalom events in 2009 and will be doing what we can in 2010.
Please put the 10/11th of July in your diary as Quayside are hosting the Slalom (5) and British Freestyle Tour (3) at Sunny Hunny (Hunstanton), sponsored by Fanatic/North.

Neil, keep the updates coming. They are awesome.

See you on the water. Stephen

Aloha from Maui - Day 13

2009-11-20T21:10:00.000-08:00

We woke in the Aloha State to bright sunshine and a keen 25 knot Northerly wind. The guys were to get more time on the Spreckville waves but my thoughts were to get out and enjoy what I enjoy - Bump & Jump Freeride wave.

I chose to go to Kanaha Beach Park on my own to chase out a few demons that hat got into my head armed only with my Fanatic Freewave 95, Blade 5.3 and 5.7. Once there I took a look and the waves were BIG out on the reef but the water downwind and in the bay was quite flat. I rigged my 5.3, downed two super hardcore pain killers and went out.....

.....and what a day. Fantastic flat water with loads of ramps to get jump after jump, small to begin with as I wasn't sure how my back would cope, but as the day went on I ventured closer and closer to the waves. At one point I was 10 yards away just behind a MASSIVE wave forming, luckily going away from me, but it must have been 10ft at the face.

Sara has a new friend Liz, Jason Polakow's other half. She has invited Sara to go and see JP do 'Jaws' on Wednesday as it forecast to be kicking off - just bloody hope Jason doesn't expect me to join him on a 45ft wave. Fortunately 'Jaws' is sailed by invite only as only the VERY BEST can handle her when she's angry.

No pictures today as we were all sailing so here's a couple of pictures: One of Sara looking gorgeous and the other of me with at one of the best Freeride locations I've ever seen!

Aloha from Maui - Day 11/12

2009-11-20T13:40:00.000-08:00

The wind has been coming in nicely giving the boyz a chance to play in the swell which is massive one day then quite small (well 6-8ft) the next. My ribs have been getting slowly better and I attended Yoga Wednesday and then tryed to sail. The problem was that the swell outside our house (basically next to Sprecks) had massive swell and rocks everywhere which did nothing to gain my confidence so I called it a day.
I'm starting to wonder whether Maui is the location for sailing for me. Waves are great if you want waves, but I'me not sure I want waves. This feeling was strengthened when Sara and I visited the South side of the Island and saw some of the best freeriding conditions I have ever seen.

I know certain people will put this down to me not being extreme enough, or just scared, but you know I windsurf for the joy of windsurfing at any level, light wind, flat, waves, etc but I want to ENJOY myself. Frankly, and I'm sure my injury has made things worse, I don't enjoy sailing in some locations here and would prefer to be at Wells or El Medano.
But Maui is a truly wonderful place and the windsurfing history steeped in this place is quite evident on all levels.

Sadly my last video post has sent my iMovie software go on strike so no more vids for the moment. The picture today is of Sara and I at Lahaina where Hump Back Whales can be seen in close quarters. We are next to a real skeleton of a Humpback - truly massive. Also the Thommen 2010 Cross X board which we have been extensively testing and I really like - watch this space.

Aloha from Maui - Day 9/10

2009-11-17T23:32:00.001-08:00

The last couple of days have been pretty uneventful for me being layed up resting my ribcage and oblique muscles so although today we spent a couple of hours with Francisco Goya, Poi from Maui Fin Company and the boyz sailed with Peter Thommen.

So so entertain you I have stuck together some headcam footage from our Predator VX360 headcam including the day Ant backlooped and bust his mast @ Sprecks.

Hopefully sailing a little tomoz........little nervous yes!!!

Aarrhh!!! from Maui - Day 8

2009-11-15T19:47:00.000-08:00

There no other way to say this but yesterday was NOT a good day. After having a nightmare sailing and niggling pains in my ribcage after my wipeout, it all came to a head last night. As I was getting ready for bed I sneezed and a massive pain shot through my upper body paralising me totally. I managed to sit down but the pain was escrushiating and I spent the next ten minutes negotiating into bed. Then at 2.30am I woke unable to breath with pain with a electric shots of pain going through my chest and around to my back. Sara called our Insurance in preparation to call an ambulance but took some painkillers and got to sleep.
It turns out that after Ant called Susan, his local Medical expert, she came round at took a look and concluded that I most probably tore my external oblique muscles when I wiped out, then the Yoga just made things worse and the sneeze was the final straw......

SO.......Pronosis is:
Rest for 6 weeks with no windsurfing, plenty of painkillers and lots of water and by the New Year I should be fit to sail - Yeah right!! Give it a few days layed up and pump me full of painkillers and I'll be out again...........hopefully. Just don't tell my mother!!!

Only problem is all the footage will be of the other boyz here....Oh another Mike joined us today so we now have two Mikes, Ant, Sara and myself.

Aloha from Maui - Day 7

2009-11-15T12:29:00.000-08:00

Hi from the windy Island. We went out today at Sprecks in 5.0 conditions. I had a mere of a sail so decided to come in and get some photos of the guys in the waves. Here's Ant Baker and Mike Stone from Worthing Watersports bustin it up.

Aloha from Maui - Day 6

2009-11-13T20:05:00.000-08:00

Day 6 has been quite an experience with Sara, Ant and myself hooking up with world renowned Yoga expert Nadia for a morning session........the video tells it all!

We then went to Kanaha for so blasting but the wind gods were against us again and didn't fill in. So it was fun on the paddleboard in the small waves....only concerning was that Ant saw the first SHARK of the holiday! Holleee Sheeeett!!!

Picture is my war wound just so I can mention it a few more times!

Aloha from Maui - Day 5

2009-11-13T00:13:00.000-08:00

Aloha from Maui - like the Preist who walks 20 miles a day to protest against Abortion.......Hmmm!

Very little happened today as there was MASSIVE swell but no wind. The only entertaining thing was that Ant got pulled over by the fuzz! By the end of it he was more interested in Ant windsurfing career than actually nailing Ant for the crime........ wearing no seatbelt!!

Tomoz is forecast to be MASSIVE - double (and some) mast high waves and 20 knots of wind. Ants told us we must go out - Hmmm!

Aloha from Maui - Day 4

2009-11-12T09:53:00.000-08:00

No wind today so we headed up to The Cannery, the seminal birthplace of almost all boards designs in the world whether custom boards for pro sailors or pre production boards you and I will sail. We met Mark Nelson who is the best shaper in the world and he showed us how he works his magic. We also saw where Dakine was started. A small unit within The Cannery where Dakine straps, uphauls etc were first made. We then went down to Ho'Okipa to see whether the forecasters were right predicting massive double high waves and high winds for tomorrow. The swell was certainly building and was mast high when we saw it.

So we prepare for tomorrow where we will experience some of the biggest conditions Maui has to offer!

Aloha from Maui - Day 3

2009-11-11T11:09:00.000-08:00

So winds are light here in Maui and so checked out Neil Pryde testing their 2011 Race sails with Antione Albeau and Micah Buchanis doing their best to stop Ant copping a look at their new sail clew design.
We then headed to Kanaha Beach Park to sunbath and for me to work on my tacks some more. Last night we went to Piai Fish Market for a meal, a place where you order your meal and then pop a squat anywhere there's room to sit so you can end up sitting next to anyone - and who did we end up sitting next to......... Ricardo Capello, Freestyle Guru!

Actually, he was a miserable bugger with no sense of humour at all.

Onto today........ we're only going to meet Robby Naish and tghe guys at Quattro boards........ and the forecast for two days time is double mast high waves with 40 knots........

........God help me!

Aloha from Maui - Day 2

2009-11-09T19:01:00.000-08:00

So I woke up this morning at 4.00am with my ribs killing me and the wind blowing its bits off outside. I sat up doing the article we are writing for the magazines and reflecting on the last evenings dinner we had with Jason Polakow and his girlfriend Liz...........REWIND!!! I had dinner with Jason Polakow - only the second most influential windsurfer in the world only after the legend Robby Naish. The awesome thing is ( Oh shit, I'm now speaking American!) we are going to Jason's house for a BBQ tomoz night.
We all headed to Kanaha beach Park to work on jumping but the wind didn't stay in so Ant had me working on short board tacks - His tuition is so easy and by the end of the day I had almost cracked them - the tack not my ribs.

The photos today is of Ant, Mike and I checking out Kanaha Beach Park and getting into the young American Dude look!

Aloha from Maui - Day 1

2009-11-08T18:38:00.000-08:00

Well we are now in the windsurfing Mecca of the world and bot its better than you can image.
Day1
We went to Ho'Okipa and took a look at the top spot in the world. Its really quite emotional to see this spot. Its much smaller than you think and there's only about a ten yard stretch of beach to get out there. The weard thing was I really didn't know how to react when I did see the place but Ant has told us we WILL sail the spot whilst we are out here.

I also got the chance to meet one of the most infuential windsurfers in the world - Jason Polakow. He was teaching some kids how to motocross and was just so approachable. We will be sailing with him later on the trip.

So we went to Kanaha beach, a beach which is nice and flat on the inside, but as we found, had 3/4 mast high waves on the outside ( Ant words not mine!). Mike sailed really well but I had some trouble negotiating the way out to begin with. After a couple of hours on 5.3 sails I got my first 3/4 mast high wave............. fookin scary but what a buzz. Just as I felt smug I took a massive catapult and I now have bruised left ribcage and it is SO sore!!!

So there ends my first day and feeling super sore but I hope to get out tomoz......... till then.

Aloha and look forward tomorrows blog

2009-11-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

Just received my new QSW camouflarge hat! You will not miss the team on the beach now!
Also looking forward to seeing the pictures from Maui. Niel do not forget the toilet paper.
Stephen

Nice Chair!

2009-11-04T08:54:00.000-08:00

I was down at North / Fanatic this week looking at the 2010 Ion wetsiuts and rigging jackets. Those who know me know I was not a great fan of Ion simply because I didn't like the design look of them. I went down to Shoreham to see the 2010's and they look great, and as you would expect, they perform excellently. I have decided to go with the Quantum range for 2010 which really look warm and well made. Whilst I was there Nik Baker let me take a look at his latest Office Chair........... He's such a poser............like me!!

So I'm now getting nervous!

2009-11-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

Its five days to go before i set off on the trip of a lifetime - Maui, Hawaui

Joining the world pro sailor Ant Baker for three weeks to sample the best place to windsurf in the world. So why am getting nervous - get this.... I will be flying to a location which is well known for some of the largest waves in the world, meeting and sailing with the likes of Jason Polakow, Robby Naish and surfing with Laird Hamilton. We will be dining with Willie Nelson.... Ok thats not so cool!!

But I hope you can understand now how the pressure on me is mounting not to make a complete kn*b of myself. Ok - I know I'm not a bad windsurfer, but certainly not the double looping standards of the other guys!!!

That aside I really am looking forward to it and will be making a movie of this epic trip - thats provided I survive Ho'okipa!

New Videos on 2010 Fanatic boards

2009-10-26T16:59:00.000-07:00

As a new feature of the website we have added video footage of the Team QSW guys reviewing the 2010 Fanatic boards we have on our demo fleet. Check out the videos and let us know what you think!

Weymouth Speed Week 2009

2009-10-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

Team QSW riders Steve Chatten and myself joined Ant Baker and Dave White for a couple of days at Weymouth Speed Week on the 10th October to sample the delights of this annual event in its 29th year. It attracts all kinds of sailors from pro's to leisure speed sailors out for fun, but one thing thats common here is the sense of community. Everyone helps everyone! The idea is simple - to sail down a 500mtr strip of water as fast as you can whilst being timed. Its awesome fun for all levels of sailor.

Take a look at our video and join us next year where we will be running a motorhome road trip to Weymouth Speed Week over one of the weekends for 6 customers for under £150 each. Email us for more details and to log an interest in this awesome weekend.

Log in and WIN!!!

2009-10-21T16:02:00.000-07:00

On the run to Xmas we are running a competition to win world PWA sailor Nik Bakers personal North Cross Air waist harness signed by Nik and brother Ant Baker. The North Code Orange 2008 harness in medium was used by Nik at world PWA events such as Cape Verde, Costa Teguise, and Maui.

To win this highly desirable prize all you have to do is log in to the Quayside Windsurfers website and we will randomly pick a winner early 2010. So go on, you've got nothing to loose by opening an account and you may bag yourself a real piece of windsurfing gold!

Team QSW Logo 2010

2009-10-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

Just had to let you all see the new Ltd Edition Team QSW logo to be used on the team riders sails and the team clothing for 2010. We will be making some T shirts and Hoodies available to our customers early 2010 so look out for the clothing on the website!

Possible 2010 Road Trip - Anyone interested?

2009-10-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

I was taking to a well known ex-PWA sailor the other day and we are thinking of running a road trip in motorhomes for 2010. We are looking at travelling the best locations in Europe over two weeks in upto 4 motorhomes with all the kit. We will be Free camping where ever the best beaches are and soaking the awesome feeling of a real Pro windsurf roadtrip.
We will be sorting the motorhome hire, planning a route, and from there we all just get down to enjoying the freedom of European road tripping.
We are planning the trip for mid 2010.

If your interested contact me from the website and I will log your interest.

Take a look at this!!

2009-10-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

I was on the south coast with my good friends, the Baker Brothers with Ant Baker showing me the ropes on shore break ready for when we go to Maui in November............Did I tell you I was going to Maui and meeting the biggest names in windsurfing!!! LOL

Whilst we were ther we spotted this guy on the beach with a really interesting looking board. We went up to look and he had this eighties homoligation board which he had customised to go to Weymouth Speed Week next week.

Check out the Technora decking, the P38 rail modifications, and the bubblewrap on the home made fin.

......but to be fair he sailied it really well!

Look out for us.....

2009-09-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

Look out for the team being featured in Windsurf magazine as their featured retailer. Sadly only myself, Ray and Steve could make the photo shoot as Pete was at Uni and James is still in Dahab.

Here's the picture as a taster.

Sorry for the absence....

2009-09-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

Its been an interesting couple of weeks.......

I have sailed alongside Antione Albeau, met Fabio Lamborghini and had my laptop crash on me. So we will deal with each one at a time.

I was at Poole sailing the UKWA when I was offered the chance to run a slalom race against all the UK big names and Antione. It was a floating start which I had never done but actually I got a great start. I was about 10th out of 25 in 9mtr light winds and very smug........and then Antione ripped past me like I was going backwards. Then again I didn't come last!!!

Yeah my laptop totalled out 1 hour after ordering my new macbook on the said laptop......... I think I upset it!!

Whoah..... Fabio Lamborghini!!!!!! OMG

OK - Anyone who knows me knows of my love of fast cars and my beloved Lamborghini. I took her to the Lamborghini Owners Club annual dinner in Stratford and who show make a special appearance. Yes THE Fabio Lamborghini, nephew of the legend Furucio lamborghini had made the journey to see us............ one of the best moments of my life....Defo's!!

Greetings from Dahab

2009-09-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

Well I suppose its about time I introduce my self, my name is James Bushnell AKA Biz. Ive been working in the windsurfing industry for 3 years now teaching in various locations around the world. I'm now currently working for Neilson in Dahab, Eygpt! which is quite possibly the windiest resort Ive ever worked.

I'm due to be returning to England in a months time and will soon start work for Quayside Windsurfers working in the shop and also getting out on the water teaching or just trying to show off emphasis on the trying part!

Now I happen to have the good fortune of having a week off in this delightful place but however the wind has vanished to a steady 3 knts Gutted! At which point I turned back and off to town for a few Lunch time beverages! But on Wednesday it is due to come back with some power 35 knts according to WindGuru. I'm looking forward to getting out there and doing some more training and hopefully upload some more videos to keep you guys posted.

So keep your eyes open for some new footage and I will hopefully see you on the sunny beaches in Norfolk or in the shop.

Take it Easy for now..

Biz

Southcoast Bliss!

2009-09-04T03:53:00.000-07:00

The day started by driving to Neil's yesterday morning at 5am.... ouch! We then loaded up the new van with gear (and Ray) and hit the road for the south coast!

It wasn't until we got to Costal Coffee in Shoreham and saw a table of professional windsurfers, representatives from both Boards and Windsurf Magazine and renowned local sailors we realized that today was going to be memorable!

After talking about the eagerly anticipated North and Fanatic 2010 range ( and placing orders!!) we headed for the beach.

It had been a good few weeks since i had been out on the water (Dahab) and the wind was a solid force 6-7 i was thrown a new ICE 4.7 in the code blackberry colours and had a ball at the first beach. After a realtively short sail and having a bit of a rinsing! we decided to move to a spot more easterly more suited for low tide.

I was so impressed with the new ice, it handled so well and was much more positive than i thought they would be. in the air they are really stable and encourage you to push harder. The wave twin i couldn't believe. After going to a RRD twin fin (82) this year and going through that learning curve of getting used to two fins, i was suprised to see how user friendly this wave twin is. Fanatic have really raised the bar with this board.

the conditions were still big and the wind seemed to be gusting higher - which gave Neil a bit of a shock when his FSW 85 and blade 4.7 hit the water!

overall a brilliant day, thanks go to the baker boys for organizing it all and providing us with all our gear!

Anyone up for a wave session

2009-08-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

Got an Invite for anyone to join the Team QSW guys when they go down to Shoreham to spend a day sailing with the Baker Brothers. We will be leaving at 6.00am Thursday morning to arrive at Shorham about 9.30ish.

We will enjoy some breaky then set out to try the NEW 2010 Fanatic boards in, what looks like some really good conditions.

Email me on neil@quayside-windsurfers.com to see where we leave from.

Peter Andre does it!!

2009-08-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

Ant Baker sent me this little nugget of Peter Andre, the famed ex husband of 'Jordan' taking a chance to learn windsurfing with Ant @ Brighton.

He looks a natural.......

2010 Babies debut @ Wells

2009-08-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

Its only once a year when I start getting hot sweats, nervously talk a lot, and generally behave like you did when you were 8 and your parents were driving you to your favourite fairground or beach for a day out. Yes, its that time when I start receiving the new toys from the board and sail makers for 2010. First to arrive is my RRD Freestylewave 95Ltd and my Fanatic Freewave 95 Team Edition. I eagerly unpacked them and stuck them into the Team QSW van.

Their first outing was to Wells next to Sea blowing a solid westerly 22 knots. Steve and I drove up early and got our place on the beach car park and rigged up to be first out. It was a neep tide so the channel was just like zone 2 @ Dahab, excellent for practising carve gybes, duck gybes and my first attemp at a body drag............. hmmmm!
Just and excellent day on the Freewave 95 - itsas good as the RRD but feels more loose and wave like, not as fast though. But a simply brilliant board as an allrounder on the coast for B & J and waves.

Some days you feel so good you couldn't hold an argument with Saddam Hussein!!!!

2009-08-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

To help support the National Windsurfing Festival @ Hayling Island the 5th -6th Sept 2009, we will be sending our Racing Team down to this event. We can be seen in the QSW Race motorhome or in our rash vests. There is also a contingent of local sailors heading down there to camp over the event so you wil be in good company!

A Special Adventure for me.....

2009-08-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me knows of my deep desire to one day join a round the world yachting crew and sail a 'Full on ' racing yacht through the bay of Biscay. As a prelude to this my brother bought me an adventure day racing 36" racing yachts in the Solent.
So out we went in 25 knots of wind, ran aground on the Bramble sandbank ( yes the one in the middle of the Solent!!) nearly lost a crew member overboard........

....but boy it was a good day!!. See more on the Tutorial Movies page of the website.

The big man takes the seat

2009-08-17T16:00:00.000-07:00

Ant Baker squeezed himself to my beloved Lamborghini when I visited them @ Shoreham to go windsurfing from one of the best locations in the UK. After squeezing himself in, it did take three of us to pull him out......

Quayside Windsurfers to stock Fanatic for 2010

2009-08-17T15:54:00.000-07:00

I can now reveal that after testing some 2010 Fanatic boards Quayside Windsurfers will be stocking Fanatic boards next to their range of Rrd boards in our 40 board showroom. We will kepp Freewaves, Hawks, and Vipers and Neil will have a Freewave 105 on his van to demo.

" I was so impressed with the wave feel to the Freewave I felt that Fanatic would sit perfectly next to our current range of Rrd Freestylewaves. The both do a similar thing but with a slightly different direction to each board. the RRD is an allrounder for chop etc, where as the Freewave is more of a wave feeling board"
You will see 2010 boards arrive from September.

A sail @ Shoreham with the Baker boys

2009-08-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

Me and Sara were invited to join the world famous Baker brothers at their home beach of Shoreham. I rolled up with just my wetsuit and harness and joined the guys for some force 4 freeriding at this lovely location. I tried the 2010 Freewave 105 which I have to say is a fabulous board. It felt very wavey and felt smaller than a 105ltr. I used a North Ego with it and found that very light and yet powerful. I will be having a 105 Freewave on my Demo fleet for next year so come and try it sometime.

Thanks again to both Ant and Nik Baker for letting us join their family day out and showing us this fab location. i plan to run a clinic with Ant in 2010 @ Shoreham. i will let everyone know once I have organised the dates.

We apologise!!!

2009-08-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

Team QSW would like to formally apologise to all those on the South coast today who had to witness Team QSW rider Steve Chatters Chatten getting his Speedo's out and scaring the living daylights out of the local aging population.
It bumped into Ant Baker, our good friend and the man behind www.bakerwindsurfacademy.co.uk and who has come up to Norfolk several times to teach such moves as Carve Gybing and Looping!!

Once again we are truly SORRY - Steve will be on a Final Written Warning for his mindlessness!!

No Wind but New Team QSW van

2009-08-07T02:51:00.000-07:00

There may have been no wind this last week but the new Team QSW van has finally been finished and is now ready for action. Its fully equipped with sail cleaning hose, six board rack, 12 sail rack and Turfdog board holder, kiting gear rack plus coolbox for the Redbulls we carry on board.

Check us out at the beach........

Ant Baker back in QSW Country

2009-07-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

Ant Baker the legendary world windsurf pro is back in Norfolk on the 30/07/09 for a 'one off' tuitional with QSW customers. Its being held most likely at Wells and Ant will be teaching techniques such as Gybing, looping and 360's. Contact Ray on 07887 648127 for details of charges ( under £100) for the day.

Who is it.......

2009-07-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Doo yer know who it is yet????

Yes - Ant Baker acclaimed as one of the most extreme and talented sailors of the last 20 years. He turned up to help out the QSW Demo weekend and to hold an exclusive FREE customer technique clinic on the Sunday.
We will be getting Ant up here to run more clinics in the near future so look out for the posts on here to offer places.

Until then take a look at Ant Bakers 'Baker windsurf academy' and see what he can do for your sailing - you can even join us in Maui in November!!!

Neil

A Fantastic weekend mi thinx

2009-07-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

The Lifestyle 2009 extreme lifestyle event took place in Hunstanton over last weekend. We rocked up on Friday night with all our demo kit and settled down for the night. The Saturday brought beautiful sunshine and with all the kit out on display, our customers were able to chill and chat to the QSW Team Riders, John from Severne UK, and to Ant and Nik Baker, the top level pro sailors visiting us with their selection of North and Fanatic kit. Saturday night we all had plenty to drink and listened to the band put on for the event. Then on Sunday Ant Baker started the 'All New' challenge style slalom racing for everyone to enter. The fleet was impressive with 22 sailors including 1 woman happy to show a few of us up in the Force 3-4 conditions.
The overall winner was Kieron Roan with Jonny Fanaran coming a close second, but no-one could match the performance of Nik Baker starting last every race and finishing in the top 5 everytime....awesome to see. Ant then opened an exclusive FREE Quayside Windsurfers customer technique clinic. 22 customers enjoyed 4 hours of top level tuition from one of the best sailors the UK has ever produced!!

If you didn't come you missed the best Demo weekend we've ever had. Everyone enjoyed the windsurf activities but also the other activities on show at the event for their families to enjoy.
We will be doing it again next year and hope to run a full UKWA race event over the demo.

Demo Weekend next weekend!!

2009-07-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

So we can now announce whats happening over our Demo Weekend on Sat 11th / Sun 12th July. We will have demo kit from Severne, North, Fanatic and Rrd, and Sup boards from Tushingham.
Everything is available to sail, talk to our experts, or just drool over!

We will also have Nik Baker and Ant Baker giving FREE taster lessons for windsurf beginners on the Saturday and Ant Baker will give a FREE Technique Clinic to invited VIP Quayside customers.

We will also be holding the Slalom race events on both days open to ALL visitors. You can drop off your kit at our dedicated windsurf area and we will keep an eye on it, and we be have plenty of deals on kit for the weekend. There will also be a 'chill out Zone for all our customers in the windsurf area'

So bring your family or just come along for the racing, deals on kit, or just for a chat.

Contact me Here for more info.

Invitation to Race with us!!

2009-06-20T09:36:00.000-07:00

On the 11th and 12th July we are hosting a light hearted 'Challenge' style slalom race for anyone of any level to enter for FREE on any kit. Its being held at Hunstanton at the Lifestyle 09 event. We are hoping to get 10-15 competitors so we can hopefully the awesome bandwagon of the UKWA race series to Norfolk in 2010. Just contact at neil@quayside-windsurfers.com and register your interest and we will email details of the race nearer the time.

So come on, join in and lets see if we get the UKWA sailing in Norfolk in 2010.

Wells rockin!!

2009-06-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

Friday afternoon the forecast looked good for 20mph NW so Steve and I set up to check out Wells on the North Norfolk coast. When we arrived there must have been 30 vans and ALL the local characters were there..... including Terry Vincent, a fantastic guy who makes the oldest rattiest kit look easy to sail.
We had all our Rrd Freestylewave's out on demo, with me using the awesome FSW 85 Ltd with a 5.3 Blade, and Steve on a Rrd FSW 105 Ltd and FSW 95 Ltd with a 5.7 Blade. Conditions were flat so excellent to try a few new moves (which for once went OK for me!!).

The wind kept up and everyone had one of those ' this is why I windsurf moments!!'. I came off the water totally knackered after 2 1/2 hours but boy it was good.

Check out the NEW movies

2009-06-16T01:15:00.001-07:00

Check out our 2 NEW movies on the website.

The first is my blog of the month long road trip to Tarifa, Spain. It outlines the ins and outs of motorhoming, freecamping, and the cool spot that is Tarifa.

The second is a tutorial which outlines how to service your fins and care for your booms. Take a look and look out for the Ant Baker article in the next few days.

UKWA Slalom Series - Aberdovey

2009-06-16T00:49:00.000-07:00

So we set off Friday afternoon for our 7 hour run to Aberdovey, Wales for the 2nd round of the UKWA windsurfing Slalom Series. We rocked up to this gorgeous Welsh village which has a beach not dissimilar to Wells (the QSW local spot) to see loads of flags, campers and Team kit vans. Saturday was a super sunny day with light winds and it was decided to run 3 Groove Amada races (super relaxed, anyone enters race) at the morning breif which included world renownd names such as Ant Baker, Nik Baker, Dave White and Jamie Hawkins.
So the first race kicked off with me using my 9.0mtr NCX and Rrd X-Fire 120 thinking "how am I gonna gybe this thing!". I managed to negotiate the course coming second............from last!! - but had SO much fun racing Ant and Nik banger racing their boards. Saturday afternoon was spent talking for 3 1/2 hours to Ant Baker (world PWA wave, slalom competitor and 90's wildboy) in the QSW Team motorhome. I will be publishing the chat on the website but what a guy. He is now teaching in a way that sets him apart - 4 hours to forward loop, 3 hours to carve gybe!

Saturday night was 'a mess!'. Nik Baker who doesn't drink had Dave White plying him with cocktails I'v never heard of. 1.00am found me so drunk I couldn't walk, Steve cooking up burgers on the BBQ, and colapsing into my bed. Next morning we all gathered for breakfast and Nik turned up, ate two mouthfuls, and retired back to bed for the day - welcome to Demo's Nik!!!
Sunday Steve and I got to grips with the brand new inflatable Sup ( stand up paddleboard) taking in the waves and surfing.

So conclusion.....Our first and furthest UKWA event was absolutetly fantastic..... roll on Southend!!

Pete does Sushi!!!

2009-06-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

No sooner had I sat down to congratulate myself on a job well done with reference to taking the piss out of QSW Team rider Pete Morris and his new white wetsuit............. and he goes on a DIET!!!!

He sat down a started eating Tesco's ready sushi meal. When questioned as to why any sane person would want to eat a scabby pre packed sushi he replied with " I'm on a diet". I think the last straw was when the WWWF were called with a sighting of a scabby white whale on the Wells bar to find Pete waterstarting!!

Pete's new wetsuit....Hmmmm

2009-06-07T06:19:00.000-07:00

Pete - don't let anyone say you've not got balls....

......we could see them through yer new white wetsuit. Actually, I don't mind the white wetsuit. My only concern is the 'cut-short' legs and long arms.

Well, and the fact its shows up the beer gut!!

Force 9 Windsurf Clothing

2009-06-07T06:12:00.000-07:00

We had our first taste of the new Force 9 Windsurf clothing range designed for windsurfers by windsurfers. This range of T Shirts, Hoody's, and Baseball caps are really well made and are not your normal 'Fruit of the Loom' clothing with a badge!!

The QSW Team have right behind Force 9 and you will see Neil, Steve and Pete sporting the clothing at the UKWA events this year.

See Force 9 Clothing

2010 RRD Sneak Preview

2009-06-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

As we are getting closer to the start of the new season pictures start to leak of what we can expect to happen for the new year. Apart from the obvious graphic changes ( i am loving the colour coded rails of the wave cult!) we can see that RRD's new range includes a Wave Thruster, boasting one more fin than the newly introduced wave twin of 2009.

It appears that RRD are keeping the original line up from 2009 in their wave boards and introducing the new wave thruster, bringing the RRD quiver up to 4 specific wave boards.

In addition there appears to be some volume changes to our old favorite the Freestyle Wave. This must mean new shapes for 2010, which I cant wait to test soon!

These photos are the first that we have seen so far, and we will of course keep you posted on any other developments as soon as they happen!

Pete

Karate Kid sailors!!

2009-06-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

I was ambling the internet tonight and I remembered Dave Whites mentioning googling Paul Perry (a local windsurfer and good friend of the QSW team). So I did and WOW!!!

He won't mind me mentioning that he's internationally recognised, got his own website, and has a DVD out. This guys a modern day mix between the Six Million Dollar man and Hong kong Fooee!

...and his faithful assistant Gary Batterick (another good friend and sailor). The scary thing is now I know this god help me if I ever 'whooop they're ass' on the water!!!

Check these links.....its really good stuff.

Youtube video on Paul Perry

Paul Perry JIN SEI KAI

Whitey takes over top mag

2009-05-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

So its official now. Dave White, one of, if not the most prolific windsurfers the Uk has ever produced ( and good friend of all Team QSW) has been appointed Editor in Cheif of Boards Magazine.
Well I for one think its fantastic news. For some time I have felt that the UK windsurf mags were going off the rails with rogue test results ( judged by the media spend and not performance) and irrelevant articles so when I heard the news I was firstly well stoked for Dave, then filled with a sense that he will inject some of that 'Whitey zest' into the magazine.
So look forward to some new perspectives in Boards Magazine and we all @ the UK's leading windsurfing retailer wish the old dog the best in his new post.

Go Whitey!!!

Thats better parfee!!!

2009-05-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

After two weeks of light to very light winds I have had three days of 'full on' 5.3mtr days in Tarifa sailing the world famous 'Levante' winds. These winds just get stronger as the day goes on and have a tendancy to stop without notice. In reality it means you don't just have to negotiate the water conditions, from flat to large bump and jump, but keep one eye on the wind towards the centre of the straights of Gibraltar. You find yourself sailing 2, 3, and 4 miles into the straights to get the pure wind and the gorgeous smooth sea conditions - beleive me when I say its addictive.

The first day I sailed for 5 hours and frankly burnt myself out, so I had to pace myself a little more the last two days.
So now we are on our way home, making our way in our trusty QSW Team motorhome towards Bilbao where we will catch the ship to Portsmouth and I can relax for a couple of days.

So Tarifa by reflection - as my learned and wise father-in -law says....thats better parfee!!!

Travel 1700 miles to no wind..

2009-05-17T14:15:00.000-07:00

As you know we are sunning ourselves in Tarifa training for the UKWA season......

........only to find you have all the wind at home and we have nothing here!. All we have is very light winds hardly enough for my 9.0mtr NCX. In fact today 5 kitsurfers and 2 windsurfers got completely windbound 500-1000mtrs out from Punta Paloma beach.......... a very long swim indeed for the windsurfers and the kiters didn't find it easy either.

On the subject of kitesurfing, I have now purchased my 13mtr Rrd Passion kite and big ( cannot remember size) Rrd Placebo twintip. Went to set it up here in Tarifa to find its all completely changed - so no kiting either. Will have to tap up QSW Team Rider Pete Morris to show me the ropes when I get back.
Oh - and here's a little video funny I put together when bored one day...
Our Whaling trip..
See Quayside Windsurfers Owner on a whaling trip

More from Tarifa....

2009-05-10T05:43:00.000-07:00

So me and Sara have been in Tarifa for some sun, s@@ and sailing, and up to now it all going very well. Today there is a light Poniente wind blowing in but Sara and I cycled into Tarifa town and I then rode on into the Tarifa hills to get some footage of the Gibraltar straits.
......it nearly killed me - see the video posted once I get back!

We also bumped into an old friend from Tarifa Mike Sibthorpe, a English guy who comes down a stays here for several months in his Hymer motorhome. Really good to see you Mike. We will hopefully go out for some eats with them whilst here.

Oh....here's a movie of me getting wet!!

Training in Tarifa..

2009-05-09T11:58:00.000-07:00

Its that time again and me Sara have struck up the QSW motrohome and blasted down Europe to the coolest windsurfing spot in Europe - Tarifa.
It took just two and a half days to steer the 28ft team motorhome down to our favourite spot, Las Dunas, Tarifa and we were met by force 8 Levante winds and scorching sunshine.
My first three days here have been sailing 6.5mtr well powered freeride and a 5.0mtr bump & jump day. The only problem is we have found the motorhome batteries cannot handle free camping for more than 2 days so we have had to check into the Torre De La Pena camp site to recharge our batteries.

...... keep you posted!

Look out for the Logo

2009-04-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

Look out for the NEW Team QSW logo around the magazines, website, and on all kit we send out. We have named our Race / Freestyle Teams QSW (Quayside Windsurfers) to make it easy to see us on the water or any of our support vehicles.
Also look out for the FREE stickers we are sending out with all orders off the website.

Neil

Review of my North Silver 150-200

2009-04-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

I now have the new 'Bull nose' North Silver boom over the last few sails. Have to say its absolutely bloody awesome. You can set the boom to feel soft or hard to aid early planing and direct feel on bigger sails in lighter winds, and a softer feel on smaller sails giving the sailor a more comfortable ride, and believe me it really does work.
Direct feel, narrow grip, and extremely good quality SDM or RDM front clamp. All in all my top recommendation for a boom that costs less than £150!!!!

More hard pre UKWA training....

2009-04-25T14:19:00.000-07:00

Once again anyone who knows the QSW Team riders will know all too well just how seriously we take our pre race training. Today myself and Steve Chatten got up to Wells to get some light wind training in before our Slalom race series this year. After Steve badly bruised his finger on our last training session last week, I took to the water first on my Tabou Rocket 125Ltd and Severne NCX 9.0mtr sail. After all on the beach had finished taking piss that I would be wasting my time as was not enough wind ( and I have to say I agreed!!) I took to the water to find I got up on the plane very early and blasted across the bay.
Oh how they ate their words........... Steve never got out as he was too busy dilly dallying around so we decided some tactical analysis was required as you can see...

........God help us!!

Thanks for some great sailing...

2009-04-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

This week has been an awesome week for sailing with NE winds allowing us to enjoy locations we don't normally sail on a port tack. It began with a 6.5 sail @ Brancaster on Wednesday with Team Rider Steve Chatten. We sailed till dusk...a great feeling.
Friday evening myself and Team Freestyler Pete ( The DR)Morris had a ball on a NE wind on 5.7's and gorgeous bump and jump conditions ( except my involuntary jump/ 1/2 forward...`Hmmm') and onto enjoy a cool beer. Then Saturday morning myself and Steve again jined plenty of the Wells faithful for a light wind slalom style blast. Paul Perry, Paul Wilkins, Gary Batterick rigged up the big guns with 9.0mtr NCX sails so Steve, on my 9.0 Severne NCX had his work cut out. I rigged a 7.5mtr NCX on a Tabou Rocket 125Ltd and blasted with Lee Custance, Graham Wales and Mathew Scales who all were really pushing me. Lee especially pushed me hard but, luckily for me, he kept spinning out with too smaller fin for his Hellcat 7.5mtr NP.

It was also great to see Richard and Geff joining us for some light wind blasting and blowing away their sailing cobwebs.

...so a great week me thinx!!!!............. only 2 weeks to Tarifa 2009 - look out for my Tarifa blog in May...

The NEW North Booms are here!

2009-04-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

North's NEW iFront booms are finally here. They have the all NEW iFront - the clamp that you can set either for a soft feel or a hard feel for more feedback from the sail. The short sizes up to 1.50 m now feature an ergonomically ideal New School bending curve so that both hands are at an equal distance from the centre of the sail, thus preventing the front arm from being overstretched. I have one on my van to look at so catch me at the beach and you too could own the latest technology from North. Check out this link to see the NEW North iFront boom

Team QSW Tour Bus on the Radio

2009-04-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

The BBC were treated to a good look around the Team QSW tour motorhome this week. It was used to get Becky Betts ( BBC radio reporter) around the Norfolk area and enjoy how a Windsurf Team lives on the road. She loved the facilities onboard such as Sky TV, DVD, fixed bedroom, and full solar back up.

.....The Team QSW is gaining momentum for the UKWA in 2009

Mistral Deals JUST IN!

2009-04-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

We have just taken delivery of some 2008 Mistral Sceamer RD's, Explosion RD's, Explosions and there are some excellent deals at the moment. The Mistral boards we have are all centred around freeride catering for the low intermediate, Intermediate and Advanced sailors. Prices start from £599..... a saving of over £300 on their normal price. Click on the highlighted text to see what we have!

Testing continues....

2009-04-12T12:34:00.001-07:00

The QSW Team motorhome was tested over the Easter weekend on the South coast. Neil and his wife Sara gave the Team vehicle her second test run prior to the 1 month tour of Tarifa ( Spain) in May. They first visited the famous windsurfing spot of West Wittering and then moved onto Hayling island and then Poole harbour over the Easter break. The winds were very light so much of their time was biking and checking out the competition ( and their prices!!).
The QSW Kon-Tiki is being well used at the moment including her debut in a national magazine in the next couple of months.

Team Motorhome tested...

2009-04-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

Me and Sara got a chance to test the new QSW Team riders UKWA Team motorhome last weekend. The Swift Kontiki 669 has everything we need to be self sufficient at the national Slalom events. Check out the all new QSW Team logo!!

Where have I been???

2009-04-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of input the last month but my google mail account went AWOL. I have been busy exporting kit, sailing in the cold North sea, and hooking up with, Local hot shots Jonny F, Keiron R and the legendary Dave White to write a feature length article to be published in one of the UK windsurf magazines..........look out for the excellent adventures we had including Dave attempting to slice Jonny's board with my 2009 Rrd Freestylewave 85Ltd!!!

Neil - QSW

Team QSW gear up for the UKWA Slalom Series 2009

2009-02-11T15:37:00.000-08:00

Neil, Steve, and Pete are gearing up for Team QSW ( Quayside Windsurfers) entering the UKWA Slalom Series in 2009. We plan to race our standard Rrd and Severne kit to show just how relaxed and enjoyable Slalom can be. We will at six events in 2009, but for now we can show off our Team motorhome. Its an awesome Swift Kon Tiki 669 6 berth, garage model motorhome. Equipped with DVD, Satalite, solar, we can be anywhere and be self sufficient. Look out for the Silver logo'd up Kon Tiki 669 at the national events and come and join us for a cup of tea ( or stronger!). Neil Greentree (QSW Team Leader and QSW Owner) said " We are doing this more so that out non local website customers get a chance to meet us and discuss windsurfing or just chill out with us".
Look on the UKWA website for the Slalom dates from May - Sept 2009.

Severne Booms NOW available!

2009-01-28T15:22:00.001-08:00

We now have the NEW line of Severne continuous alloy booms and carbon booms in stock. Ben Severne took over six months ensuring the quality would be right. He finally took the Aeron boom and redesigned the head clamp and made a few changes to the carbon thickness. The result is the Blueline range of continuous alloy 29mm booms, and Redline Carbon 26mm grip range.

"I use the Blueline range myself and find them extremely stiff and yet comfortable" said Neil Greentree - QSW Owner / UKWA Racer.