How to: GPS Speed Windsurfing Events

Windsurfing is a water sport in which a surfer stands on a board while controlling a sail to get from one point to another. In speed windsurfing, or speedsurfing, the surfer is trying to accomplish this task in as little time as possible. In a race, competitors try to beat the speed of another surfer over the same distance. While races used to be clocked one at a time, GPS devices make it possible for a surfer to sail continuously throughout the day, as it then calculates speeds and times at the end of a day. GPS Speedsurfing is the world forum where competitors come to post their speeds and exchange event details.

• 1

  Enter the GPS Speedsurfing website into your Internet browser, and click "Events" from the blue menu options at the top of the page. (See Resources.) An enumerated list of events with the titles of each race will appear. Scroll down the list to locate an event that is taking place in your country. Click on the event name to see the event details such as specific location, date and time. Follow the instructions to register.

• 2

  Attend the racing session on the date of the event. Bring with you the necessary gear, including windsurf board, sail and GPS unit, as well as a wetsuit or appropriate sailing clothing. Program your GPS to record your movements on the sail throughout the day. Affix your GPS to the boom of your sail to prevent it from falling into the water if you fall off your board. Record only information during races, and turn your GPS off when not surfing to save battery. Use GPS units that have these abilities .(See Resources.)

• 3

  Upload your GPS data to your computer, and convert the information into track times using the software available on the GPS Speed Windsurfing site. (See Resources.) Times can also be entered in manually but only those created with the software will be considered if a dispute claim is made. Save all GPS files for up to one year after a race in the event that a "Regional Time Keeper," or "RTK," wants to verify your data.

• 4

  Return the website after the race. Create a username and password to make a profile on the site. This is necessary to upload your race data, known as a "session." Upload information from the software you downloaded in Step 3.

• 5

  Compare your speeds and race times with others on the site. Consult event rankings up to one week after an event to judge yourself against other surfers. Adjust your windsurfing techniques to see how your speeds decrease or increase over time.