Learn to windsurf, without the water Local invention simulates wind and waves
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indsurfing is an exhilarating watersport but learning can be cold, wet and frustrating. Peter Bakker recognized the barriers to newcomers to the sport he loves. That’s why he worked with the inventor team on the windsurfing simulator. “Windsurfing is exciting once you know the techniques,” says Bakker, now 80, “but it’s the hardest thing to learn.” In 1986, Peter Bakker, George Ouellet and Peter Vanichuck created the first computerized simulator here in Powell River. Many readers will remember the enthusiasm and excitement of the town as they headed to Vancouver with their invention. Bakker took over the company in 1990 and refined the invention. The unit has been on tour to a dozen major US cities, England, Germany, Greece, Holland, Switzerland and Japan. It has also been featured in windsurf and boating shows along with high profile appearances on Good Morning America, The Today Show, Donny and Marie, and Late Night with David Letterman. The SureWind Simulator is still the only computerized windsurfing simulator in the world. It can be programmed for wind speed, stability, the weight of the sailor, add in gusts, and wave action. One hour on the simulator is equivalent to five hours on the water and the skills required can be practiced in a controlled environment with an instructor alongside. Because the SureWind simulates the outside environment, people who train on it can be prepared for ‘real’ windsurfing. They learn to jibe, tack, waterstart and most importantly, how to return to the beach. The SureWind has been tested and endorsed by world champion windsurfers such as Robbie Naish, Katie Anne Alie and Olympic silver medalist, Scott Steele. During Watersport Week at Alpha Dive & Kayak, many enthusiasts and groups tried out the unit. Next year SureWind has been invited to be a special feature at the Vancouver Boat Show. Outside Powell River, the SureWind is used at resorts, by cruise lines and at surf shops. To find out more about windsurfing and training on the SureWind visit www.surewind.com.
windsurf... indoors! Zoe Pelton demonstrates how to use the SureWind windsurf simulator.
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