The NWF crew get in touch with the latest news on the 10th edition of the watersports festival –
Words – NWF; Photos copyright Christophe Ponchont.
“We can now officially say that the 10th edition of the NWF is next month, 2 – 4th September on Hayling Island and we’re doing our bit to help promote the event which has become one of the most well-loved fixtures on the events calendar!
Going back to its roots with windsurfing as the main sport, alongside the new (ish) kid on the block, SUP, the NWF gives intermediate, recreational watersports enthusiasts a chance to get on the water, take part as well as kick back in the unique festival atmosphere that has become synonymous with the event.
This year event organisers have promised they plan to deliver a show stopping 10th edition to celebrate a decade of running the event, which is one of the longest standing in the industry.
Last year, over 10,000 visitors enjoyed the spectacle of hundreds of competitors, of all ages and abilities, taking to the water for the first time or joining in both the fun and pretty hardcore racing on offer. If racing is not your cup of tea or you have individuals in your party who are not competing there are taster sessions being run and free tuition from top coaches, many of whom are former British and World champions. You will also get the chance to try out and demo some of the new kit that the trade exhibitors will be bringing along, trying to tantalise you into purchasing! Go on, you know you want to!
There are two humungous beach parties to look forward to, with live bands, alongside all the floodlit night-time activity where the professionals crank up the action to race and perform incredible stunts, right up close and personal. This year, expect to see the current World Freestyle Windsurfing Champion, Dieter Van Eyken, wowing the crowds just feet from the shore – and don’t forget your Pirate fancy dress for Saturday night!
Talking of windsurfing legends, the NWF has always attracted some of the biggest names in the sport including Nick Dempsey and Bryony Shaw – currently flying the Great British flag in Rio. Keep your eyes peeled to see who turns up to celebrate the 10thanniversary. So far, we’ve heard that Ross Williams who came 2nd in the 2016 Fuerteventura PWA Grand Slam – Men’s Slalom is going, Ollie Shilston, who will be giving SUP coaching sessions will be attending, alongside windsurf legends, Adam Lewis and Max Rowe.
There are different camping zones this year, so whether you like to party into the night or pack up the kids early and turn in yourself, you can be sure you’ll find your perfect ‘spot’.
When it comes to families, this year there are a ton of shore based activities on offer with Water Zorbs, Climbing Walls, a Lynx Helicoper to explore and a variety of SUP events – SUP Polo, PugilSUP, SUP Tug o’War and SUP Pilates to name a few. This has all been meticulously designed to keep a varied and fun packed programme of events available for every discerning audience.
A full program of live music throughout the weekend – both night and day – and food and drink stalls will add to the festival atmosphere – so it looks like there really will be something for everyone throughout the whole weekend!
Event Director, Allan Cross comments: “Fun followed by more fun and maybe too much fun in the evening” is how one competitor described the NWF! We’re incredibly grateful for the support that we get from the industry and in return we want to make sure we’re putting on an absolute corker of an NWF, especially as we’re celebrating such a milestone with the 10-year anniversary. Make sure you get your tickets early this year and come join the fun!”
So, don’t miss out on what will be a truly epic weekend. Entry is now open for both competitors and for additional party tickets. For further information, see www.nationalwatersportsfestival.com.com or follow NWF on Facebook or Twitter. See you there!”