Safety instructions:

Pre competition:

Wavesailors looking to compete at BWA events (particularly for the first time) should take the time to liaise with events hosts and/or the BWA before deciding which category of competition is best suited to their ability level. This will most likely lead to the best experience while participating in competition since fleets are often put on the water in specific conditions that apply to their general ability level. 

Know your own ability level and limits:

Competitors are encouraged to always sail within their limits, taking into account weather conditions and wave conditions and what they believe that they can comfortably windsurf and compete in. No competitor should undertake competition in conditions that they would not regularly consider sailing in. Competitors should also have suitable equipment for the conditions, their weight and their ability level when planning to compete. If you do not have appropriate equipment then you should consider whether competing is safe for you. 

Health Constraints:

Any competitor who has an underlying health condition that could potentially affect you during competition, should disclose this to:

The BWA

The Event host

The beach team

At the event which you are entering.

In all cases where you know you have such a condition, medical advice should be sought before considering entering a competition since competing is far more physically tiring for you and more draining than free sailing at your own pace. 

General observation and recommendation:

Ultimately you undertake wavesailing competition of your own volition. Most wavesailors have built up a high level of understanding of their abilities, health and fitness over years of windsurfing participation, before ever considering competing. BWA and their event hosts will never push individuals to enter competition heats which are beyond their comfort or ability level. Sail to you known standard, not to your aspirational standard is the key advice. That performance will take you to the position it takes you to in the competition you choose to participate in. Participation is the key to development and fun. Not winning at the cost of your health or fitness.