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Windsurfing
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When Phil Horrocks from Rhosneigr isn't competing in the UK windsurfing championships, he is a freelance instructor in windsurfing, sailing and power boating in NW Wales. He gives us the low down on how to get windsurfing in the area.
How did you get started?
I started windsurfing about ten years ago, when my uncle gave me a lesson whilst on holiday in France. My older brother was also in to windsurfing and I used to borrow his board and go surfing with him whenever he went out.
About five years ago, I bought my own board and I've been surfing more and more ever since.
Where did you go from there?
I went to college, and then did a six month instructors' course at Plas Menai. They kept me on to work as a seasonal instructor, and I stayed there for five years. I'm now a freelance instructor of windsurfing, sailing and power boating in North Wales, and I work in Funsport at Rhosneigr beach - when I'm not away training.
What clothing and equipment do you need?
Beginners can get a board for about £200 and a sail, mast and boom for about £200. You also need a wetsuit and harness.
Now I'm competing, I've got about four boards and eight sails, and it gets a bit more expensive, but I have got sponsorship for some of my equipment.
What's your most memorable experience?
Last year, at the end of the professional tour celebrations on the Isle of Wight, I was voted most improved sailor of the year. I'd come fifth in the UK championships, and it was great to be voted most improved sailor by my fellow professional windsurfers.
I've also been to Hawaii and South Africa to train. South Africa is fantastic. It's good for windsurfing, with great waves, and it's really cheap to live out there.
Have you got a favourite place?
Rhosneigr, where I sail most of the time, is great. The winds and waves are good and there's always lots of people around you. It's friendly, with a good atmosphere and you can have a good session out on the water.
Who's your hero/heroine?
Francisco Goya was the windsurfing world champion two years ago. He's a great sailor, and a nice guy. I met him in Hawaii, where he now lives, although he is Argentine.
Any other points?
You need good general coordination and balance, and a reasonable level of fitness is beneficial. But they make boards so wide now, anyone can have a go.
Where can I have a go?
The National Watersports Centre at Plas Menai offers windsurfing lessons, as well as Funsport on Rhosneigr beach, Anglesey.
Useful websites:
www.boardseeker.com
www.funsport.fsnet.co.uk
www.ukwindsurfing.com
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