Even in the face of such cold temperatures the coming Easter Bank Holiday weekend will see large numbers of watersports enthusiasts descend on the island for the first two events of a busy 2013 schedule.
Round Hayling Windsurfing Race and SUP Challenge
Easter is usually the weekend that enthusiasts dust off their kit and dip a cautious toe into the salty water for the first time since the previous autumn.
As the birthplace of windsurfing and a centre of excellence for kitesurfing and SUP (stand up paddle boarding Hayling is the perfect place to get the 2013 season started.
This years Round Hayling Windsurf Race and SUP Challenge takes place on Good Friday at HISC (Hayling Island Sailing Club) and will feature some hot racing from both disciplines with fleets of competitors making the pilgrimage from far and wide.
With more traditional warm and calm March weather conditions in place this event is usually the home of technical racers who can make best use of light airs. This year however looks set to be wholly different with a stiff easterly breeze and colder than usual temperatures on the cards.
The SUP racers who were due to circumnavigate the island also have been confined to the creeks and estuaries of Chichester Harbour. The forecasted wind would be too much for competitors on a stand up paddle board.
Even in the face of such harsh weather there will be plenty of on water close quarters racing followed by a welcome hearty meal and after party at HISC.
Non-member spectators are welcome on the day.
BSA (British Slalom Association) Round 1
The action then moves to the seafront and Beachlands where the first round of the BSA (British Slalom Association) Slalom Series will kick off.
Cool H2O action and a breezy schedule is looking likely for 2013s event. This should provide some exciting racing that could prove tricky for some as freezing temperatures will no doubt separate the men from the boys.
Top UK equipment brands will be in attendance with plenty of demo kit available for the hardy who fancy a dabble. Technique and equipment demos will also be on offer and Saturday night revelry hosted by the Inn On The Beach will allow everyone to thaw out nicely.
If the wind shouldnt materialise then SUPs will be on loan ensuring some form of salty water action will be delivered.
Cold weather aside if youre looking for some beach entertainment this Easter then get yourself to one of the two locations (or make a weekend of it) and get involved.
And if the cold weather is really putting you off then shelter with a nice warm cup of coffee inside HISC or the IOTB where youll still be able to witness all the on water action.
For more info check the HISC website www.hisc.co.uk/ for Round Hayling Windsurf Race and SUP Challenge details and www.ukwindsurfing.com for info regarding the Beachlands Slalom event.
