Windsurfing is an extremely tight knit community; many who practice the sport have connections right across the globe. Tragic news of a windsurfer being found in Langstone Harbour at the weekend has filtered throughout international circles and many have responded; paying respects and offering condolences.
Sean Boyle was in his 50s and was a recent recruit to windsurfing. Living close by in Hilsea Hayling (Esso Beach) was his local launch spot. His new found passion was reported to have given him a new lease of life after going through some tough times. Unfortunately Mr Boyle suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday and was later found face down in the water.
Local windsurfers and watersports enthusiasts in general were shocked to hear about the incident as its very unusual. Hayling based windsurfing coaches Danielle Lucas and Phil Richards had been speaking with him a short while before the tragedy occurred. Danielle had even offered Mr Boyle some tips and advice even though he wasnt part of the group being taught.
Tez Plavenieks an enthusiastic windsurfer and stand up paddle boarder from Hayling said: Its an extremely sad situation and puts things into perspective. Accidents like this are fortunately rare. Windsurfers are generally perceived as being adrenaline junkies but windsurfing is actually a relatively safe sport. I do feel for his family and friends.
Boards Windsurfing Magazine forum member CJ Sparky posted: My sympathy goes out to his family. Im a regular at Esso and its hard to read news like this without thinking about the what ifs. It does pull things into focus. http://forums.boards.mpora.com/showthread.php/73396-Sad-news
