k o ie. o g n b n i f nd aili r u a.s s w H d in tor ww 2007 W uc o tr G s In! g Your name 1
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Contents Get Up & Go! Contents 3 Welcome 2 Go Windsurfing! 4 Instructor Pathway 6 Instructor Training 7 Instructor Pre-course Standards 9 How 2 use this handbook 11 Go Windsurfing! Menu 12 Boards & Rigs 13 Wind2Go! 14 B4UGo 15 Get Up + Go! (Introduction) 16 Fly the Rig (Up Hauling)) 17 Fly the Rig (Flying the rig) 18 Fly the Rig (Manoeuvring the board) 19 Fly the Rig (Assisted Beach Start) 20 Counterbalance 21 Let s Go 22 Turning Around (Downwind) 23 Turning Around (Upwind)) 24 Getting Back 25 Go4it! Go4it! (Introduction) 28 Up Hauling 29 Beachstart 30 Deep Beachstart 31 Stance 32 Harness 33 Footstraps 34 Rig Steering 35 Foot Steering 36 Gybing (light winds) 37 Gybing (strong winds) 38 Tacking 39 Self Rescue 40 B4UGo 41 Kit & Rigging 42 Tides 43 Weather 44 Freestyle (Notes 4 Instructors) 45 Go! With Style Go! with Style (Introduction) 46 Waterstarts 47 Planing Gybes 48 Planing Tacks 49 Coastal Windsurfing 50 Boards & Rigs 51 Select a Sailing Area 52 Jumps 53 Free Style 56 Wave Riding 58 B4U Go 26 The Next Step 27 Photos & Graphics Unless otherwise credited, all photos are by kind permission of Starboard / Tushingham. Graphics of sailor by Onevision Multimedia Ltd. and Irish Sailing Association 3
Welcome 2 Go Windsurfing! Welcome to The ISA Go Windsurfing! Instructor Training programme and to this, the handbook designed to assist and support you as you develop as a Windsurfing Instructor. The ISA s Go Windsurfing! Programme, Instructor Training Programme and publications have all been developed by Irish Windsurfers, for Irish Windsurfers. The project which was first kicked around in 1999 by a small group of 6 Windsurf Instructor Trainers has now developed into a fully fledged training programme of which we in the ISA are immensely proud, and which has received accolades from right around the world. As you qualify as a Go Windsurfing! Instructor, or indeed move on to become a Go with Style Instructor, the baton is in effect being handed to you. With this comes the responsibility, not only for ensuring that you can persuade as many people as possible that windsurfing is the best sport in the world, but for the future development of the scheme. One of the underlying principals in developing the scheme has been to ensure that you as an instructor have the skills and freedom required to innovate and try new, and better, ways of teaching those skills necessary to enjoy windsurfing. In this way the scheme will always be developing and moving on. Credit must be given to the team who have developed the Go Windsurfing! Programme and these publications. They are a small group who have volunteered considerable time to the process, even on days when it was blowing! Without a doubt the scheme reflects their love of the sport and the pristine wild Irish waters in which they sail. They are Jeff Cochrane, Oliver Hart, Dave Garvey, Cahill Kavanagh, Ali Dreyer and Gareth Allen. Good luck with your instructor training course and as a Go Windsurfing! Instructor. ISA Training Manager 01 2710113 tony@sailing.ie Using this handbook The ISA Go Windsurfing! Instructor handbook is designed to help you to record your experience both on your instructor training course and subsequently as a Windsurfing Instructor. Using it will allow you to continually develop your skills as an instructor and ensure that you always learn from experience. The Instructor Trainer running your instructor course will help you identify exactly what to include in each section. However it is important that you do take the time to write the information down as it will be invaluable to you once you start running windsurfing sessions. We have also included details on the various Instructor Training courses and pre-requisite requirements in the manual. This handbook should be used in conjunction with; ISA Instructor Manual - this provides information on the core coaching skills required by an instructor as well as information that is common to all ISA Instructors and Coaches. Go Windsurfing! Logbook - This Logbook must be provided to all sailors completing modules in the Go Windsurfing Scheme. It allows them to record their experiences, just as you as an Instructor, will use this handbook. It is important that as an instructor you are familiar with the Logbook and understand how to use it. We do intend to regularly publish updated versions of this manual and the ISA Instructor manual. Details on how to obtain these updates will be included on the Instructor / Course provider section of the ISA website. Contact ISA Training @ Rachel Carson, Training Administrator, 01 2710114, training@sailing.ie Irish Sailing Association, 3 Park Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. www.sailing.ie 4
Welcome 2 Go Windsurfing! The Go Windsurfing! Scheme The ISA s Go-Windsurfing! Scheme has been conceived in order to make Windsurfing easier and more fun to learn than it has been up until now. Changes in design and advances in technology now mean that sailors can stand on a board that is both stable and lightweight, with a rig that is light and effortless to control, giving you the twin benefits of easy balance and fast performance. Changes that have driven the development of this scheme have also been the need for participants to get an immediate and successful experience of the excitement of windsurfing, which formerly would have been the prize at the end of a steep and painful learning curve. The new equipment makes it really easy to get going and get that instant hit which provides the incentive to develop more skills and stay with the sport for greater thrills. Teaching Methods have also advanced and the Go Windsurfing! Scheme provides an exciting and innovative approach to introducing people to this attractive sport and then allowing them to develop their skill at a pace and in the way that suits each individual sailor. The application of modern coaching methods, where the participant is encouraged to learn through experimentation, and where the instructor takes on more of the role of a facilitator than instructor, results in a participant centred approach where the participant discovers for themselves the skills that work for them. The key elements of the scheme are perhaps innovation and flexibility. Innovation allows the sailor to access new and easier to use equipment as well as constantly advancing and evolving teaching / coaching techniques. Flexibility allows the sailor and their instructor to choose the right session according to the sailor s skills, the equipment, the sailing area or just the day that is in it. Previous schemes have centred on a rigid course structure, completing modules to work up through consecutive levels. The Go Windsurfing! Scheme breaks with this model by allowing for a flexibility of approach to skills development by putting ownership of the process in the hands of the participants. Borrowing a metaphor from the user interface of computer operating systems, the Go Windsurfing! Scheme offers a menu option approach. Picking through the menu facilitates the learning of skills that windsurfers need to learn in the order that they want in order to get full enjoyment of the sport. Whilst meeting the needs of participants the scheme also aims to be attractive to the centres where it will be run. Get up and Go! courses, it is hoped, will deliver a much higher ratio of converts to the sport, with greater commitment to developing skills through clinics in the Go4it! and Go with Style sections. The Go-Windsurfing! Scheme was rolled out across the ISA s network of Recognised Teaching Establishments during 2003. Details of these centres are listed in the booklet Where to sail, windsurf or powerboat in Ireland available from the ISA office. Alternatively the ISA website offers up-to-date listings on www.sailing.ie The scheme has been developed by the ISA s Windsurfing Instructor Trainers, all extremely experienced and active windsurfers and instructors, is supported by a full colour handbook available from all accredited Recognised Teaching Establishments. Both imaginative and innovative, Go Windsurfing! is a participant centred scheme designed to maximise the advantages of modern equipment and progressive coaching techniques, delivering a flexible system of training that is Fast, Easy and Fun! 5
Instructor s Pathway Go Windsurfing! Instructor The Go Windsurfing! Instructor leads sessions on all of the modules included in the Get Up+Go! and Go4it! sections of programme Senior Instructor To be implemented 2005 The ISA Senior Instructor manages and organises courses within the Go Windsurfing Scheme including the supervision and development of Instructors. Go! with Style Instructor The Go! with Style Instructor leads sessions on the following Go! With Style modules; Waterstart Coastal Windsurfing Planing Gybes Planing Tacks Selecting an Area Boards & Rigs Chop Hop Go! with Style Jumps Instructor The Go! with Style Jumps Instructor leads the Jumps sessions within the Go! With Style section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor The Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor leads the Wave Riding sessions within the Go! With Style section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. Go! with Style Freestyle Instructor The Go! with Style Freestyle Instructor leads the Free Style sessions within the Go! With Style section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. 6
Instructor Training Go Windsurfing! Instructor Go! with Style Instructor Senior Instructor Role The Go Windsurfing! Instructor leads sessions on all of the modules included in the Get Up + Go! and Go4it! Sections of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. Pre-requisite requirements Sailors wishing to enter onto the Go Windsurfing! Instructor training course must: Have all Go4it! modules completed and signed off for strong wind conditions. Hold a current First Aid certificate of a type approved by the ISA. Hold the ISA National Powerboat Certificate endorsed for both tiller & console Be at least 18 years of age* Training The Go Windsurfing! Instructor training course is 6 days long. Dates and venues for courses may be found on the ISA website. Validity of certificate The Go Windsurfing! Instructor certificate is valid for 3 years and while the holder also has a valid First Aid certificate. * If you are between 16 and 18 years of age then you may complete the course. However, you will be awarded an Assistant Instructor Qualification which may then be upgraded as an Instructor qualification when you turn 18 Role The Go! with Style Instructor leads sessions on the following modules; Waterstart Coastal Windsurfing Planing Gybes Planing Tacks Selecting an Area Boards & Rigs Chop hop Pre-requisite requirements Sailors wishing to enter onto the Go! with Style Windsurfing! Instructor training course must: Hold the ISA Go Windsurfing! Instructor qualification. Be at least 18 years old. Be sailing at the standard identified in the appropriate section on page 9. Training The Go! With Style Instructor training course is 5 days long and run in two parts. Dates and venues for courses may be found on the ISA website. Validity of certificate The Go! With Style Instructor certificate is valid for 3 years and while the holder also has a valid First Aid certificate. To be implemented 2006/7 Role The ISA Senior Instructor manages and organises courses within the Go Windsurfing Scheme including the supervision and development of instructors. Pre-requisite requirements To be decided. Training To be decided. Validity of certificate To be decided. Contact The ISA Training Office for more details on this course. 7
Instructor Training Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor Go! with Style Free Style Instructor Go! with Style Jump Instructor Role The Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor leads the Wave Riding sessions within the Go! With Style section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. Role The Go! with Style Free style Instructor leads the Free Style sessions within the Go! With Style section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. Role The Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor leads the Jumps sessions within the Go! With Style section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. Pre-requisite requirements Sailors wishing to enter onto this Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor training course must; Hold the ISA Go! with Style Instructor qualification. Be sailing at a the standard identified in the Go with Style (Wave Riding) Instructor pre-entry standard detailed on page 10. Training The Go! With Style Wave Riding Instructor training course is 1 day long. Contact the ISA Training Office for more details. Validity of certificate Go! with Style Instructor certificates are valid for 3 years and while the holder also has a valid First Aid certificate. Pre-requisite requirements Sailors wishing to enter onto this Go! With Style Freestyle Instructor training course must; Hold the ISA Go! With Style Instructor qualification. Be sailing at a the standard identified in the Go with Style (Freestyle) Instructor pre-entry standard detailed on page 10. Training The Go! With Style Freestyle Instructor training course is 1 day long. Contact the ISA Training Office for more details. Validity of certificate Go! with Style Instructor certificates are valid for 3 years and while the holder also has a valid First Aid certificate. Pre-requisite requirements Sailors wishing to enter onto the Go! with Style Jump Instructor training course must; Hold the ISA Go! With Style Instructor qualification. Be sailing at a the standard identified in the Go with Style (Jumps) Instructor pre-entry standard detailed on page 10. Training The Go! With Style Jump Instructor training course is 1 day long. Contact the ISA Training Office for more details. Validity of certificate Go! with Style Instructor certificates are valid for 3 years and while the holder also has a valid First Aid certificate. 8
Instructor Pre-course standards Go Windsurfing! Instructor Pre-Course Standards for Instructors Prior to entry onto the Go Windsurfing! Instructor training course you must be able to do the following: Have completed, and have signed off by an ISA Centre Principal, all of the Go4it! Modules; in strong wind conditions (11knots or over) on a medium sized board (180 liters or less) with a sail suitable to your size and wind conditions. Be able to demonstrate the ability to; sail in planing conditions in harness and footstraps carve the board into a turn in planing conditions sail comfortably and confidently in a variety of conditions including chop and small swell (0.25m+) and open water Declaration To be filled in by you prior to entry onto the Go Windsurfing! Instructor training course. I declare that I understand the standards required prior to entry to the Go Windsurfing! Instructor training course and that I meet these standards. Your name Your signature Date Go! with Style Instructor Pre-Course Standards for Instructors Prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Instructor training course you must be able to do the following: Waterstart You must be able to consistently waterstart on both sides in wind speeds of 11 knots and above. Going You must be able to demonstrate the ability to sail comfortably and confidently, planeing through rolling swell and chop, in a variety of wind conditions. Gybe You must be able to consistently plane into and out of a gybe performed in open waters in wind speeds of 11 knots and above. Tack On open waters and in wind speeds of 11 knots and above; you must be able to consistently plane into a tack and then power out of it before the board has a chance to slow down. Coastal You must be able to launch and land on an open beach through small waves (0.25m+) and remain in full control of the board and rig. Jumps You must be able to Chop Hop i.e. demonstrate that you can get the board and fin clear of the water in choppy conditions, control your landing and plane away. Select a sailing area You must be able to accurately assess a sailing area before launching, demonstrating that you can make good decisions regarding the suitability and safety of the location. Tides & weather You must be able to; demonstrate the ability to identify how forecast weather will affect a sailing area. Identify key indicators of local weather conditions and describe their effect. Identify and describe the effects of tide on a sailing area. Equipment Properly prepare any board & rig for use. Declaration To be filled in by you prior to entry onto the Go! With Style Instructor training course. I declare that I understand the standards required prior to entry to the Go! with Style Instructor training course and that I meet these standards. Your name Your signature Date 9
Instructor Pre-course standards Go! with Style Wave Riding Pre-Course Standards for Instructors Prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor training course you must be able to do the following: Safely and effectively launch and land through moderate size (4ft+) breaking waves while maintaining control over their board and rig. Demonstrate the ability to select waves for riding by; 1. Identifying sets of waves 2. Positioning themselves on the wave Demonstrate the ability to ride a moderate size wave (4ft +) including; 1. Frontside (down the line riding) 2. Backside riding 3. Basic bottom and top turns. Demonstrate a knowledge of Basic Surf Etiquette 1. Right of way 2. Whose wave is it Get safely back to shore in the event of wind dropping or kit breakage. 1. Self rescue methods 2. Safety in surf Declaration To be filled in by you prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor training course. I declare that I understand the standards required prior to entry to the Go! with Style Wave Riding Instructor training course and that I meet these standards. Your name Go! with Style Freestyle Pre-Course Standards for Instructors Prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Freestyle Instructor training course you must be able to do the following: Demonstrate the following manoeuvres in a variety of water states (flat or choppy water) 1. Planing gybes and tacks with sail rotations, duck tack and gybe. 2. Horizontal board rotations (Spock, Vulcan) 3. Carving 360. 4. Sail and body rotations in planing and non-planing conditions. 5. Backwind and clew first manoeuvres Demonstrate the ability to analyse and assimilate new manoeuvres as they are introduced Demonstrate an awareness of modern trends & manoeuvres in Free style windsurfing Declaration To be filled in by you prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Free Style Instructor training course. I declare that I understand the standards required prior to entry to the Go! with Style Free Style Instructor training course and that I meet these standards. Your name Go! with Style Jumps Pre-Course Standards for Instructors Prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Jumps Instructor training course you must be able to do the following: 1. Demonstrate the ability, on flat water, to pop the board and chop hop. 2. In waves up to 6ft, demonstrate the ability to perform a range of vertical and long jumps landing both nose and tail first. Variations / manoeuvres expected will include; Turning upwind and downwind in mid air, One transition with sail and board rotations (Arial Gybe or Vulcan). Chop hops, One handed jump, Rail Grab, Donkey Kick, Table top. While doing so you must demonstrate that you can: Maintain control in the air Land cleanly nose and tail first Sail away Maintain awareness of other water users Declaration To be filled in by you prior to entry onto the Go! with Style Jumps Instructor training course. I declare that I understand the standards required prior to entry to the Go! with Style Jumps Instructor training course and that I meet these standards. Your name Your signature Your signature Your signature Date Date Date 10
How 2 use this handbook In this box you should record the teaching points that will assist you in teaching a particular skill. Teaching points are the few fundamental points into which a skill can be broken. Once identified, you can use them to communicate to your sailor what you would like them to do, and how to do it in the simplest and clearest way possible. In this box you should record any exercises or tasks that you have used or seen that allow the sailors to practice the particular skills that you are developing in this module. Remember, when asking your sailors to do a task do make sure that they have covered all of the skills they need to complete it! Here you should record any ways of running a session that you have seen or used that worked well. Record the order in which you might run activities within a session as well as the details on how you would set them up. Delivery methods include water and shorebased sessions. Things to Remember Is there anything not recorded in the other three boxes that will assist you in teaching this skill. If so record it here!. A good examples would be the Windsurfing Wisdom included in the sailors logbook.. However, it could also be a note on what kit to use, or what weather conditions would be ideal for this module. Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to... We have filled this box in for you! In doing so we have attempted to identify exactly what the sailors should be capable of by the end of the session. This clearly identifies your objectives for the module, and allows you to measure the sailors progress. Remember that this sheet is not a session planner. You may need several sessions to complete the module, each of which may require a separate session plan. Your session plan should record a lot of detail about your specific session not relevant to this more general guide. 11
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Boards + Rigs The following list provides a summary of the types of Board / Rig / Sail combinations which are appropriate for the various modules within the Go Windsurfing! Scheme. If you are buying kit for a centre and are not sure what to go for contact ISA Training for advice. Board Type Board Volume Sail / Rig Get Up+Go! Wide Style Beginners Board 230 240 litres Go4it! Go! with Style General Go! with Style Freestyle Go! with Style Jumps Go! with Style Wave Riding Wide Style Beginners Board 230 240 litres Modern Freeride Board 140 180 litres Modern Freeride Board < 145 litres Modern Freeride Board < 145 litres Dedicated Freestyle Board 88 105 litres Freestyle / Wave Board 70 95 litres Modern Freeride Board < 145 litres Dedicated Freestyle Board 88 105 litres Freestyle / Wave Board 70 95 litres Wave Board 60 95 litres Wave Board 60 95 litres Sails (all modules) Sails used should be modern, moderate to high performance sails. In all cases the sail used should be a sufficient size to support the sailor s weight in the prevailing wind conditions, without overpowering them. Rigs (all modules) Rigs should be lightweight composite masts fitted with clamp boom of an appropriate size. Harness (all modules) Harness lines should be fitted to all booms with sufficient harness available for all sailors. Wave Riding modules Dedicated waves ail that meets all of the criteria listed above. Boards should be fitted with fins appropriate to the board & rig. This may mean that a range of fins are needed. 13
Wind2Go! Force Knots Mph Kph Description Sea state Suggested activities 0 <1 <1 <2 Calm Glassy Sunbathe or go surfing! 1 1-3 1-3 2-6 Light air Small ripples 2 3-6 4-7 6-13 Light breeze Small wavelets 3 6-11 8-12 13-21 Gentle breeze Scattered white horses 4 11-16 13-18 21-31 Moderate breeze Frequent white horses 5 16-21 19-24 31-40 Fresh breeze Waves with some spray 6 21-27 25-31 40-51 Strong breeze 7 27-34 32-38 51-63 Near gale Waves with foaming crests and spray Breaking waves at sea, some streaks of foam Get Up + Go! Go4it! Go! with Style 8 34-40 39-46 63-74 Gale Large breaking waves at sea, well marked streaks Experts Only 14
B4UGo! Consider the outcomes of all your decisions and actions to ensure that you windsurfing is always safe and enjoyable.! NEVERGoALONE! ARE YOU AND YOUR KIT UP TO THE CHALLENGE? Windsurfing with others means that help is always at hand if you Should you be wearing a buoyancy aid. are in difficulty. Windsurfing with others is the best way to improve as you share ideas and compare techniques. Let someone know where you are and what time you will be back. Can you and kit cope with the wind strength and sea state. Are you sure of getting back if the conditions change. Is your gear seaworthy, check it before going out.!! DO YOU KNOW THE HAZARDS AND RISKS? RESPECT AND LEARN FROM OTHER WATER USERS! Are you aware of the weather forecast and tide state. Are you aware of any strong currents or rip tides. Are there any rocks or other hazards in the water. Are you aware of swimmers / surfers in the water Not all water users know how your sport works so give them space and respect At a new location watch surfers and local windsurfers to identify where is best to sail and who has right of way IF IN DOUBT, DON T GO OUT 15
Get Up+Go! Using the Get Up+Go! Modules Each instructor will bring his or her own unique experiences to bear when teaching windsurfing. With this in mind we encourage you to experiment in order to find a sequence and delivery method that suits your sailing area When teaching the Get up + Go! modules instructors should use all of your unique experiences in creating a great learning environment for your participants. As each person learns in different ways, the challenge for you as instructors is create a sequence of modules that takes into account The participant s preferred method of learning The wind conditions The teaching area and hazards The participant s physical ability and previous experiences Keep in mind that you must strike a balance Demonstrate only what is absolutely necessary before going on the water then start the learning experience so that participants are excited and motivated. Remember people learn best by doing. Your notes 16
Fly the Rig Up Hauling Get Up+Go! Things to Remembers Mind your back Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : Get up onto the board in both shallow and deep water. While standing on the board. Lift the rig out of the water Manoeuvre the rig onto the downwind side of the board Flag the rig at right angles to the board Sheet in and sail away. Equipment The sailor should be using a board and sail that is suitable for conditions. This should consist of a wider style board and a modern stable, light rig. Previous skills required The sailor needs no previous skill at this stage 17
Fly the Rig Flying the Rig Get Up+Go! Photo:- Tony Wright Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : Whilst standing beside the board in the water. Slide the rig clear of the water and hold it correctly Use the wind to make this as effortless as possible Control the power of the rig Things to Remembers Equipment The sailor should be using a board and sail that is suitable for conditions. This should consist of a wider style board and a modern stable, light rig. Previous skills required The sailor needs no previous skill at this stage 18
Fly the Rig Manoeuvring the board for a beach start Get Up+Go! Things to Remembers Photo:- Tony Wright Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : Position the board correctly, in relation to the wind, by: pushing down through the mast foot to turn the board away from the wind, and pulling up through the mast foot to turn the board towards the wind. Hold the board across the wind. Equipment The sailor should be using a board and sail that is suitable for conditions. This should consist of a wider style board and a modern stable, light rig. Previous skills required The sailor needs no previous skill at this stage 19
Fly the Rig Assisted Beach Start Get Up+Go! Things to Remembers Photo:- Tony Wright Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : From an position beside the board where they are Flying the Rig : Get onto the board and into the sailing position Sail away The instructor may provide assistance by supporting the rig and holding the board in a steady position. Equipment The sailor should be using a board and sail that is suitable for conditions. This should consist of a wider style board and a modern stable, light rig. Previous skills required The sailor needs to be able to Fly the Rig. 20
Counterbalance Get Up+Go! Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Objective By the end of this session the sailor will: Be balancing their weight against the lift / pull of the rig and at the same time balance the rig against their weight. Things to Remembers Allow the sail to support you Counter balance is the technique the sailor should use to support the sail. It means that they are using their body weight, allowing the sail to support them rather than the other way around. The trick is getting the sailors to use the right amount of effort / weight to the sail so it support them while they are sailing. Equipment The board should be wide enough that the sailor is not struggling to balance on the board. Use a rig that is stable and light enough for the conditions. It is important to have enough power to allow the sailor to experience true counterbalancing. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should be able to Fly the Rig. 21
Let s Go Get Up+Go! Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : Sail their board and rig across the water and will have experienced the thrill of windsurfing. Things to Remembers Look forward to future water This is the bit the sailors have been waiting for, windsurfing effortlessly across the water. In this easy step they will discover the joy of windsurfing. Equipment The sailors will need to use a modern wide, stable board and a sail suitable to counter balance against Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed Fly the Rig and Counterbalance. 22
Turning Around Down wind Get Up+Go! Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Things to Remembers Look where you want to go Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to either; Swing the sail over the front of the board, so they can turn around and face the direction they have come from. Note that sailors are not expected to be fully competent at gybing. This is simply a means of getting the sailor back. Gybing is covered fully in the appropriate Go4it! Modules. Sailors may cover this module and or up-wind turning. Equipment The sailor will need a modern wide, stable board and a sail suitable to counterbalance the sail. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed Fly the Rig, Counterbalance and Let s Go. 23
Turning Around Upwind Get Up+Go! Things to Remembers Look where you want to go Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to: Swing the sail over the back of the board, so they can turn around and face the direction they have come from. Note that sailors are not expected to be fully competent at tacking. This is simply a means of getting the sailor back. Tacking is covered fully in the appropriate Go4it! Modules. Sailors may cover this module and or down-wind turning. Equipment The sailor will need a modern wide, stable board and a suitable sail with sufficient to counterbalance the sail. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed Fly the Rig, Counterbalance and Let s Go. 24
Getting Back Get Up+Go! Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Things to Remembers Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : Fly the rig and get going, sail the board, turn around and return to their starting point. The sailor will be able to describe all of the following techniques, and have demonstrated as many or them as is possible. Sail back to start point Walk back to start point Flagging Paddling Towing Getting back combines all the skills the sailor has mastered in the previous modules and puts them all together. Equipment The sailor will need a modern wide, stable board and a suitable sail of sufficient power to counterbalance the sailor. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed Fly the Rig, Counterbalance, Let s Go! and Turning Around. 25
B4UGo Get Up+Go! Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Things to Remembers If in doubt don t go out Objective By the end of this session the sailor should have a clear idea of the information needed to sail safely in their chosen location. Gathering information about the area a sailor intends to windsurf safely is a vital part of windsurfing. This session is about being able to identify elements that sailors should consider before they venture out each time. The sailors should be able to: Obtain a basic weather forecast Describe how forecast weather and sea conditions might affect their sailing area Identify offshore winds and describe the risks they present Identify what currents exist in sailing area and describe the risks they present Use Page 23 of the sailors logbook. 26
The Next Step Get Up+Go! Photo:- Gareth Allen @ windwise Things to Remembers Objective By the end of this session the sailor will be able to describe: Where to get information on the Go4it! Section of the Go Windsurfing! Scheme Where / how they can get to sail & practice Which would be the best Go4it! modules for them to start with How they can they find out who runs courses Where to get good advice on buying equipment 27
Go4it! Using the Go4it! Modules Each of the modules in this section teaches a particular skill. Some skills are progressions from the basic skills covered in the initial Get Up and Go section, while some are new to the sailor. Each module can occupy a whole lesson or they can be grouped together where higher or lower winds are needed. As in the Get up and Go modules it is up to the instructor to balance the outcomes desired by the participant with the conditions and ability of the individual. Points to consider Higher volume boards make it easier for participants to begin a new skill Sail size should be appropriate to the sailor s weight and the wind strength make sure there is enough power. The participant should be allowed the time and space to practice and get to grips with a technique before moving on to a new one Make sure there is enough wind for the modules selected If a sailor get bogged down in a skill try working on something different and come back to it. Your notes 28
Up Hauling Go4it! Things to Remember Mind your back bend the knees & stick your chin out the sail gets lighter as it comes up. Objective: By the end of the session sailors will be able to: Get the sail out of the water into the secure position in a safe and controlled way. Counterbalance the sail with bodyweight. Start in deep water. Place their feet accurately on the centreline. Bring sail to downwind side of board Simply pulling the sail out of the water using the rope on the boom is not a test of strength but of good lifting technique use only leg muscles and counter balance the weight of the sail with your body. Equipment A light sail with a narrow luff tube Light winds and no swell. A wide board with the centre line clearly marked of a suitable volume for the participants - i.e. their bodyweight plus 50 litres. Previous skills required No previous skills required. 29
Beach Start Go4it! Things to Remember Let the wind do the work! Objective: Beach Starts are a fast, dynamic way of starting By the end that of this allows session the the sailor sailors to get will straight be able into to: the sailing position. This means that they can easily start from the beach in a Fly the Rig and start sailing from a standing variety of conditions without having to uphaul the rig. It also means that in choppy position in shallow water. conditions they save energy over the uphaul Beachstarts method. are a fast, dynamic way of starting that allows the sailor to get straight into the sailing position. This means that they can easily The start Water from the Start beach is a in simple a variety progression of conditions from the without beachstart. having to up-haul the rig. It also means that in choppy conditions they save energy over Remember the Up Haul to method. use a rig that is powerful enough The Waterstart to provide is a simple enough progression lift in the from the prevailing Beachstart. conditions. The Equipment board used should be both stable and buoyant Use a rig that enough is powerful that the enough sailor to will provide not be struggling enough lift in to the balance prevailing on it conditions. and to prevent The the board tail used sinking. should be both stable and buoyant enough that the sailor will not be struggling to balance on it and to prevent the tail sinking. The sailor needs no previous skills in order to try Previous the beachstart. skills required The sailor needs no previous skills in order to try the Beachstart. Let the wind do the work! 30
DeepBeachstart Go4it! Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to: Fly the rig and start sailing from a standing position in waist to chest deep water. Things to Remember In lighter winds aim the board slightly away from the wind to give extra lift. In stronger winds aim the board slightly towards the wind to stop you being pulled over the front. An extension of the Beachstart, the Deep Beachstart allows the sailor to use the technique of getting onto the board directly in the sailing position in deeper water. This method of starting uses much less energy than up-hauling and so gives you more sailing time. Equipment Sailors will need to use sails that provide sufficient power whilst still remaining manageable. Their board s should have enough stability that they don t have to worry about balancing on it. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should be able to Beach start. 31
Stance Go4it! Things to Remember If it hurts, strains or causes any part of the body to become tired you are in need of a stance tune up. Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to: Move the body into a position appropriate for the prevailing conditions Make adjustments in body position to allow the board to travel better Adopt a stance that will eliminate strain from any area of the body Use the principle of counterbalance rather than strength to sail faster for longer periods Many sailors will dramatically improve through small changes in stance. Sailors should be encouraged to feel through hands and feet thus allowing good technique to develop rather than using strength. Equipment A modern wide and stable board with a rig suitable to counter balance the sailors weight is required Previous skills required No previous skills required. 32
Harness Go4it! Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to: Hook into the harness Control the rig and sail comfortably while hooked in Unhook from the harness Rig & set harness lines Things to Remember Relax! Using a harness will allow the sailor to spend more time on the water as it makes sailing more comfortable and less strenuous. As the sailor master s the harness they will see improvements in both their stance and confidence as they increase their control over the rig and the board. Equipment The sailor will need to use a sail that can counterbalance their weight in the prevailing wind conditions. Their board should have enough stability so they don t have to worry about balancing on it. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed the Stance module. 33
FootStraps Go4it! Things to Remember Keep it stable, Keep it flat, Keep it straight! Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to: Adopt a suitable stance prior to using footstraps Maintain a flat board and stable rig during the transition Sail comfortably and confidently with feet in the straps By placing their feet in the footstraps the sailor can drive the power of the sail through their legs, accelerating board speed, while their body becomes an effective counterbalance to the rig as the wind increases. Equipment The rig should be large enough to counter balance the sailor, and the board must have footstraps fitted suitable for prevailing conditions. Prior skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed Get Up + Go! For stronger winds learn to use the Harness first. 34
RigSteering Go4it! Things to Remember Counterbalance with hips and move back hand down the boom to steer downwind and up to steer up wind. Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to: Steer towards and away from a fixed point on land Steer into and away from the wind Turn the board through 90 degrees Control power in the sail by changing the position of the back hand on the boom Rig Steering is the technique the sailor can use to turn the board towards and away from the wind. Equipment The board should be wide & stable yet manoeuvrable and should respond well to rig steering i.e. no lag. The sail should be light and small but large enough to turn the board i.e. end of boom reaches end of board. Move mast foot to back of track for smaller people and smaller sails and vice versa with large people and sails Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailors should have completed Get Up + Go! and Up Hauling. 35
FootSteering Go4it! Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to; Use toe and heel pressure to turn the board both upwind and downwind. Things to Remember When steering the board whilst planing experimenting with weight distribution will give you a feel for how much weight you need to apply to comfortably change your boards direction and control the rate of turn. Equipment The rig needs to be big enough to allow the sailor to comfortably plane. And the board needs to be wide enough for stability and early planing. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailor should have completed Counterbalance & Stance. 36
Gybing Go4it! Light winds Things to Remembers Keep you weight low Objective: At the end of this session the sailors should be able to; Bear away down wind Steer the board downwind through 180 Flip the rig to go from sailing position on one tack to sailing position on the other tack Equipment Board - stable with plenty of flotation appropriate to your size and ability Rig - should not be so large that it is difficult to handle Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailor should have completed Stance, Rig Steering and Foot Steering 37
Gybing Go4it! Strong winds Things to Remembers Keep you weight low Objective: At the end of this session the sailors should be able to; Bear away down wind Steer the board downwind through 180 Flip the rig to go from sailing position on one tack to sailing position on the other tack Plane into and sail away from a gybe Equipment Board - stable with plenty of flotation appropriate to your size and ability Rig - should not be so large that it is difficult to handle Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailor should have completed Stance, Rig Steering and Foot Steering 38
Tacking Go4it! Things to Remember Try to get round in 2 steps Objective: By the end of this session the sailor should be able to; sail upwind tack the board through the wind sail away Equipment Board - stable with plenty of flotation appropriate to your size and ability Rig - should not be so large that it is difficult to handle Previous Skill Get up + Go! - Turning around 39
SelfRescue Go4it! Things to Remember Stay with the board. Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to return to shore using a variety of techniques including; Butterfly - swim on fully rigged board Turtle - swim on board with rig detached Flagging - rig raised, down & across wind Swim & tow - swim while towing board In this module the sailor will be looking at what they need to consider so that they can become responsible for their own actions and safety on the water. They will also look at developing their ability to return safely to the shore when things go wrong out there or conditions prevent them sailing back. Previous skills required No prior skills are needed to complete this module. 40
B4U Go Go4it! Things to Remember Objective: In completing this module the sailor need to demonstrate that they can; Identify why they should never sail alone. Identify what precautions they should take prior to going afloat. Describe the limitations on their own capabilities and that of their equipment. Describe and where appropriate demonstrate the use of safety equipment. Demonstrate that they can identify what effect weather and tidal conditions might have on a particular sailing area. Identify common hazards to windsurfers Describe and where possible demonstrate rules of the road as appropriate to windsurfers. See Page 23 in Sailors logbook Page 15 in Instructors handbook 41
Kit + Rigging Go4it! Things to Remember A bad sail rigged good is like a good sail rigged bad so if you have a good sail spend the time to rig it properly. Your stance and manoeuvres will benefit. Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will; Be able to identify common types of boards and sails and describe their uses and limitations Be able to correctly rig their sails and tune their boards. Selecting the right kit to use and rigging it properly is paramount to all manoeuvres and often overlooked by many. Properly rigged sails allow you to get planing easier, will be more comfortable when you approach manoeuvres and will remain stable during gusts giving you that extra bit of speed and control. A correctly tuned board will allow you to get to you top end speed or give you that extra bit of control or ability to go upwind depending on the condition and what you want the board to do. Previous skills required Prior to this session the sailor should have an understanding of the parts of the sail and board. 42
Tides Go4it! Things to Remember The tide is always moving fastest in the middle two hours. Time and tide wait for no man! (or women!) Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to : Know where to find basic tidal information Be able to describe the basics of how tides are caused Be able to describe the effect tides can have on a sailing area Be able to identify the potential hazards posed by tides As we windsurf on the sea a lot of the time, a basic knowledge of tides is important for windsurfers. This session can help the sailor s avoid a long walk home or worse still avoid finding their car in 3 ft of water at the end of their sail!! Previous skills required No prior skills are required for this module. 43
Weather Go4it! Things to Remember Objective: In completing this module the sailor needs to demonstrate that they can; Identify what positive and negative effects weather may have on a sailing session. (wind speed, wind direction, swell, visibility) Identify where to obtain appropriate weather forecasts. Apply the information contained in a weather forecast to a sailing area and describe the likely effects with regard to their own level of windsurfing. Use the Wind2Go! Chart in contained in the Go Windsurfing! Logbook. 44
Freestyle Notes 4 Instructors What is freestyle? Don t try to categorise or put the term Freestyle in a box. It is best to see it as anything you can do on the board any time you go windsurfing. Planing or not, fast or slow, light wind or strong wind beginner, intermediate or advanced. What might instructors teach as freestyle moves? Freestyle can be taught at any level. A beginner could be sailing one handed or sitting down or trying a duck gybe with small sail in a light wind. Intermediates might try helitacks to improve rig control or nose sink tacks to improve board control. Advanced windsurfers may spice up a flat water session by trying duck gybes or carving 360 s. The list is endless but further suggestions are made below. How should you go about teaching freestyle moves? First consider if the move is safe, appropriate and relevant. What does this mean? Safe - Some Freestyle moves like the helitack are better suited to light winds especially for less experienced windsurfers and can be quite dangerous if attempted in the wrong conditions or with the wrong gear for example too big a rig. Other moves won t work unless you are well powered up. Appropriate All moves have an appropriate/ideal set of conditions. Some require lighter winds others require a strong wind (body drag, carving tricks, aerial tricks). Some require flat water (body drags, carve 360) while others are easier with a bit of chop for a ramp (aerial gybe, Vulcan). Relevant Particularly in lighter winds a session can be revitalised by using freestyle to demonstrate a particular technique rather than just practising the technique itself. If doing this make sure the student is aware of the objective. Examples are: Sail & body 360 improve balance and wind awareness Light wind duck gybe practise before trying the stronger wind version Sailing clew first to improve rig control during gybe Progression Most freestyle moves can be practised on the beach in a light wind with board (skeg removed!) and rig. If the wind is strong try using a sailless rig as well. Many moves can also be practised on a floaty board with a small sail and in a lighter wind before trying the same moves on a smaller board in stronger winds. An average teaching session can be turned into a lot of fun with more learning by encouraging students to experiment and have a go at some of these freestyle moves. Just remember Safe, appropriate and relevant. How can you become a freestyle instructor? Any instructor can introduce Freestyle elements to Get Up + Go! And Go4it! Modules. However if you want to instruct the Go! With style manoeuvres you will need to become a Go! with Style instructor and then specialise as a Freestyle Instructor. Details on how to do this and on the Go! with Style Freestyle modules are included on page 53. A list of some Freestyle manoeuvres and suggested levels at which they might be introduced are included on the table below. Light Wind Stronger Wind Get Up + Go! Go4it! Go! with Style One handed One leg Leg drag Duck gybe Kneeling on board Tail sink Bum dip counterbalance Stand on wrong side of sail Helitack Duck gybe Sail and body 360 Back to sail Back wind gybe Sail clew first Lying on board Leg drag Bum dip commitment Head dip Nose sink tack Duck tack Upwind 360 Upwind 360 Carve 360 Duck gybe Aerial gybe Vulcan Body drag 45
Go! with Style Using the Go with style Modules The modules in this section are a collection of skills that will bring your participant to the next level in the sport. As in previous modules the wind strength will dictate which module or group of skill will be taught in a session. As these skills are more difficult to perfect, state the outcomes for a session in terms of parts of the skill to be achieved. Exceeding a lower goal and resetting a higher one is far better than failing to achieve any of your outcomes. As in the Go4it modules the choice of equipment is critical and instructors should encourage sailors to begin the sessions on larger boards and then move to smaller ones. Participants may often become frustrated when they are not able to master a particular skill and it can be helpful to move on to another module for a period and then return to the original skill. This avoids feeling of failure and repetition of mistakes. Allow a lot of free sailing time to perfect the skills as there is no substitute for time on the water. Your notes 46
Water Starts Go! with Style Objective: By the end of this session the sailor will be able to; Consistently water start fin a variety of conditions Things to Remember Equipment A light sail with a narrow luff tube with sufficient power whilst still remaining manageable. A wide board of a suitable volume for the participants - i.e. their bodyweight plus 50 litres. Previous skills required The sailor should have completed the Deep Beach Start. 47
Planing Gybes Go! with Style Objective: By the end of this session the sailors will on sheltered waters and in wind speeds of 15 knots and above: Plane into and out of a gybe Things to Remember 48
Planing Tacks Go! with Style Things to Remember Objective: By the end of this session the sailors will on sheltered waters and in wind speeds of 15 knots and above: Be able to plane into a tack and then Power out of it before the board has a chance to slow down. 49
Coastal Windsurfing Things to Remember Objective: Coastal locations add another dimension to your sailors windsurfing experience. By the end of this module they should: Assess the location before launching, making good decisions regarding the suitability and safety of the location. (Can be done in conjunction with Select a Sailing Area section) Control equipment and launch and land through small breaking waves (2-3ft) Demonstrate the ability to sail comfortably, planning through rolling swell and chop. Demonstrate the ability to waterstart in stronger wind conditions (F4+) and chop. Demonstrate the ability to turn the board in stronger wind conditions (F4+) and chop. Identify importance of tide and weather information (as per Go For It section) and demonstrate how to apply this to a coastal location. Equipment 90-130 litre board. 4-8m Wave/Freeride/ Freerace sail 50
Boards + Rigs Go! with Style Things to Remember Try before you buy. Objective: By the end of the session your sailors will be able to: Identify different types of board and rig and their use Make an informed choice as to which type of board or rig would be most suitable for them Select a fin appropriate to conditions and equipment. There are many different sizes and styles of board and rig available. They vary according to the size and ability of the user as well as the conditions and type of windsurfing they will be used for. Previous Skills Basic knowledge of board types for learning and progressing. 51
Select a Sailing Area Things to Remember Your sailors will only improve by sailing in new and more challenging locations. Smaller increments in wind and swell size are advised as they build up their experience of dealing with more challenging conditions. Objective: By the end of the session your sailors will be able to: Describe what factors they are looking for in a good sailing area Describe the hazards they should be looking for in a sailing area and the risks associated with these hazards Assess a location before launching, identifying hazards and conditions and using this information to make an informed decision as to the suitability of the area for the ability level of the participants Identify wind direction and force and the effects on the water Choose a launching spot that is both safe and easy to access Chose a sail and board that are suitable to the conditions and level of experience of the sailor Implement the learning from Tides Weather and B4U Go sections to help assess the suitability of the sailing area 52
Jumps Go! with Style Notes 4 Instructors What is Jumping? Jumping is Getting Airborne using chop or a wave as a ramp. The sailors will learn to pop the board, sail through the air and control the landing. What are Jump instructors expected to teach? Jumps may be performed, and therefore taught in any conditions. On flat water you will need to teach students how to pop the board and chop hop. In waves you will be expected to teach students how to jump in waves up to 6ft, in appropriate wind direction. As an instructor you will need to be experienced at jumping in any conditions and will be expected to provide coaching for a range of jumps Vertical jumps, long jumps, nose first landing and tail first landings. Variation might include Chop hop One handed jump Rail grab Donkey kick Table top For each type of Jump the sailor must be able to; Select an appropriate board and rig combination for the conditions Read the waves or chop Deciding the best approach.and what type of jump is appropriate. Show the ability to lift their board off the water. To lift the board, lift the front hand and front foot together as the nose of the board leaves the water. Pull their back leg up, tucking it under their bum to get maximum height. Show control in the air Lift the windward rail to get some extra lift from the wind. Bring the tail of the board upwind. Look forward to spot the landing. Control the landing Decide how to land. Tail or nose first. 53
Jumps How do you go about teaching jumps? Instructors will be expected to prepare session plans as in their Go! Windsurfing instructor course with help in the form of sharing knowledge from other trainees and the course trainer. Trainee instructors will be expected to design and implement sessions with top tips and teaching points from their own experience and the experience of other trainee s on your course. As Instructors may choose to teach any one of a number of Jumps we do not include specific sheets in the handbook for each and every type of Jump. Instead, Instructors should use the generic sheet provided, filling in the title and objectives as required. Having these sheets completed for each of the jumps covered on your instructor Training course is no less important on this course than on previous courses. Your notes Go! with Style Notes 4 Instructors TOP TIPS Push down, lift up - Pop Get some lift Stay sheeted in. Lift the back leg - Keep the back leg tucked up. Use the wind If you lift the board up with your back leg you can lift the windward rail, presenting the underside of your board to the wind, which in turn will lift you even higher. 54
Fill in the name of the manoeuvre / activity here Go! With Style! Jumps Photo:- Surfdock Objective: In this box detail what the participant should be able to do once they have mastered this maneuver / activity. Things to Remember 55
Free Style Go! with Style Notes 4 Instructors Freestyle instructors are trained to teach advanced freestyle manoeuvres like those listed in the Go! with Style column on the table below. However, as this list is not comprehensive and will change as new manoeuvres are invented Instructors specialising in this field need to be able to adapt to these new manoeuvres as they appear. Details on how to train as a Go! With Style- Freestyle instructor is included on page10 of this manual. Light Wind Get Up + Go! Go4it! Go! with Style One handed One leg Leg drag Duck gybe Kneeling on board Tail sink Stand on wrong side of sail Helitack Duck gybe Sail and body 360 Back to sail Back wind gybe Sail clew first Lying on board Duck tack Upwind 360 Stronger Wind Bum dip counterbalance Leg drag Bum dip commitment Head dip Nose sink tack Upwind 360 Carve 360 Duck gybe Aerial gybe Vulcan Body drag 56
Fill in the name of the manoeuvre / activity here Go! With Style! Free Style Objective: In this box detail what the participant should be able to do once they have mastered this maneuver / activity. Things to Remember 57
Wave Riding Notes 4 Instructors By the end of their wave riding course sailors should be able to: Go! with Style Safely and effectively launch and land through moderate size (4ft+) breaking waves while maintaining control over their board and rig. Demonstrate the ability to select waves for riding by; 1. Identifying sets of waves 2. Positioning themselves on the wave Demonstrate the ability to ride a moderate size wave (4ft +) including; 1. Frontside (down the line riding) 2. Backside riding 3. Basic bottom and top turns. Demonstrate a knowledge of Basic Surf Etiquette 1. Right of way 2. Whose wave is it Get safely back to shore in the event of wind dropping or kit breakage. 1. Self rescue methods 2. Safety in surf Recommended equipment: 100 liter Wave or suitable freeride/crossover board. 4-6.5m wave/freeride sail Notes 4 Instructors As Instructors may choose to teach any one of a number of Wave Riding manoeuvres we do not include specific sheets in the handbook for each and every type of manoeuvre. Instead, Instructors should use the generic sheet provided, filling in the title and objectives as required. Having these sheets completed for each of the jumps covered on your instructor Training course is no less important on this course than on previous courses. 58
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ISA Training Irish Sailing Association, 3 Park Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Ireland. 00 353 (0)1 2710114, training@sailing.ie www.sailing.ie 60