Reading through the results of the 2007 Pro Kids freestyle competition in Bonaire, I was happy to see a listing for “Classic Freestyle.” I love watching and trying the new school moves, but in truth I’m probably more stoked about nonplaning freestyle…”classic” as some of this stuff dates to the days before planing, and if it’s possible to get radical in 8 knots, count me in!
I was also happy to see the winners list:
1st Place: Caesar Finies
2nd Place Andy Brandt
3rd Place: Brian Talma
Caeser Finies is a common site to visitors to Bonaire’s Lac Bay, and he’s also been popping up on YouTube in some tremendous nonplaning freestyle clips. My two favorites are below.
Andy Brandt is not only chief instructor/guru/master of ceremonies/owner of ABK Boardsports windsurfing clinics, but he’s also been enthusiastically turning people on to nonplaning freestyle for over a decade, both as an enjoyable windsurfing activity for its own sake, as well as an invaluable way to hone technique and instincts needed to rip when it’s blowing 25. I’m particularly glad he came in second place. Andy takes great personal pleasure in tormenting me at clinics, and I know he really wanted to win. So: great job, Andy…you almost did it!
You already know who Brian Talma is. I got to meet him when he MC’d the 2001 King of the Cape Freestyle Pro-Am. This guy can generate more enthusiasm for falling off of a board than the rest of us can about nailing a quadruple loop. He’s a gift to windsurfing (as are all these guys.)
Come learn classic and new-school freestyle on Long Island at the September 21st ABK Clinic at Napeague. Special added bonus for Puffin detractors: See me get tortured by Andy for my second place wishes!)
(Photo: Andy works with a student on “sail chi”. If you can control the rig from behind the clew, you’re on your way to duck tacking. Photo by Jeff.)
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