Defi wind event guide
11th edition gruissan france

The 11th edition of the awesome mass-participation long-distance windsurfing race ‘Le Defi’ was held recently in Gruissan, France. The Mediterranean event upped the numbers for 2011 to include 1111 entrants from around the world, and the largest start lines ever seen. Here’s some insights, advice and reasons to enter in 2012!

All pics Jean Siouville unless indicated otherwise

Royal Navy Windsurfing team Manager Nic Dodd took a team of 6 serving windsurfers across the English Channel and compiled this advice for wannabee Defi competitors along with fellow Brit competitor Jon White , who also made the pilgrimage with a friend.  “This was the first time 'doing the Defi' for a pal and I. We're just a couple of normal coastal sailors who love blasting longer distances than most I guess. The Defi was something I suggested last year as a bit of an off-the-wall idea...which was a blinder!”

The biggest thing is to say you've done it, and been part of just the most insane event

British Teams were among several nations welcomed in the south of France