Issue date
When New Zealanders were first introduced to windsurfing, Norman Kirk was Prime Minister, the country had barely seen its first Pizza Hut store open, and the Kiwi population was a touch over 3 million people.
But while plenty has changed since, the popular sailing class remains as committed to innovation today as it was in 1974.
That same innovation will be honoured at a reunion evening at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron on March 16, when the windsurfing community celebrates 50 years of success in New Zealand.
In its purpose statement, the Windfoil New Zealand committee says the evening is "to acknowledge the commitment and passion of those within the windsurfing community who drove innovation to cut new pathways that continue to present New Zealand as a leader in the marine industry and sailing performance".
According to class association president Gary Hill, that simply means "reconnecting with old friends to celebrate the many achievements of so many Kiwi windsurfers, industry innovators, and craftsmen".
"We also come together to acknowledge the talent within the current foiling class and the value it represents for the next 50 years," Hill said.
Guests will hear the inside stories and facts from wave riders Biggie Smithers and Scott Fenton and windsurf legends like Grant Beck, Susie Gibbs, Bruce and Barbara Kendall and many more.
From the floor, someone will be roaming with a mic to capture some spontaneous facts and banter.
"We are also excited to have as part of this celebration the launch of Bruce Trotter’s outstanding chronicle of New Zealand windsurfing In the Footstraps of Giants. It truly is an amazing book that captures all and everything and perhaps sets the record straight on incredible stories and events," Hill said.
Tickets cost $100 and include a buffet dinner. Click here to book yours.
