Straight Outta Fiskebäck

Bonaire bound

2012-01-22T09:55:00.002+01:00

You know what it is. On the beach tomorrow.

Håkman

[Edit] This is Shitbay.

2011-10-17T21:00:00.005+02:00

This is Shitbay from Shitbay Productions on Vimeo.

Take a trip through the notorious hoods of the 426,

Erik Håkman S-1988 & Calle Pettersson S-787,

This is Shitbay.

Awesome movie trailer for an even more awesome upcoming movie release

2011-09-28T17:51:00.000+02:00

Hawkman from Calle Pettersson on Vimeo.

40+ knots photos

2011-09-19T10:27:00.002+02:00

Haven't had this much wind in a long time now. Been using 4.0, 4.4 almost every session which is good practice for a change.

Shaka

Flaka

SWT Torhamn event movie

2011-09-17T20:48:00.001+02:00

SWT Freestyle Torhamn 2011 from Daniel Andersson on Vimeo.

Event movie from Torhamn. We got one in the making right now as well, from the same guy. It will be sick.

Håkman

SWT Freestyle 2011, Torhamn

2011-09-15T21:32:00.000+02:00

The setting

After awhole week of decisions going back and forth the first mobile freestyle comp ofthe season was to be held in Torhamn, on the Swedish South coast. The stage was set for a real banger withforecasts above 30 knots, moderate temperatures and perfect blue bird skies allday. With a car packed to the limit with Echos and Starboards me and Mini-Calwere up by dawn to drive the 5 something hours from the West coast, with a World-atlasas our only means of navigation. Good planning is everything, right?

The spot

Arriving atthe spot I was blown away, literally. Solid 30-35 knots and I knew it would bea challenge; throughout the course of the whole summer we had only had one ortwo days that could compare. We were ready to rock it though. The setting is soperfect, with a long fairly shallow beach going far out into this huge bay withsmall islands acting as wave breakers which allowed for the cleanest chop Ihave ever seen. It was even perfectly angled for both tacks, which seems alittle bit strange in retrospect, but was pretty sick to see on the first runout on my totally lit Echo LE 4.8 and Starboard Flare 88.

The rules

Doubleelimination was the name of the game, so there was a lot of sailing to be done,which was fine by me as this spot is without a doubt my favorite spot inSweden. The organizers had done a great job opening this sweet military basecamp for us to rig and prepare, and even provided us with a boat to put thejudges (read: riders judging) in. The format was simplified PWA rules, with 7attempts on each side and the best 3 moves on each side counting. Riders wouldbe judged on technical skill, diversity and style. As soon as the first heatswere out I could tell that all the riders were liking the rules, as thepressure of having to land everything was off and big moves were thrown much tothe spectators delight.

The fun

For myselfI was just enjoying the beautiful day, having some of my best heats ever withfast stomped Burners, Konos and various Double moves. Everyone was rocking bigthough, learning new moves between heats and stepping up levels like neverbefore. Guess that is what Torhamn does to you; it is so perfect for learningall sorts of moves and I was honestly flying from time to time, timing the chopon my Shakas and especially my Konos. Awesome feeling.

The business

When wearrived at the final of the Single elimination with me vs. Niklas Stråhlen the wind was way too strong for4.8, and I prepared my 4.4 hoping for the best. I ended up having a sweet heatwith Burner, Double Puneta, Sw Kono on Starboard, and Shaka, Double Flaka andSpock on Port. I felt like I was on top of my game which as always is a nicefeeling. The judges decided for Stråhlen and the Single was finalized.

We wererelieved and took a much needed lunch break during which me and Calle slept inthe trunk of his car. As the Double elimination started he was in 5th and I wasin second, so there was some waiting to be done. Being back on my 4.8 with thewind dropping off slightly I was feeling good and had a blast trying new moves waitingfor the next heats.

The day wastaking its’ toll on all of us as we moved into the final 3s, and I had a heatagainst my friend Kelso from my home spot. It went well and I was once morehead to head with Niklas for the final. The wind had already gotten prettylight, and as we still were on our 4.8s there was some pumping to be done. Iended up having a banger heat with Double Puneta, Onehanded Funnel Cana andOnehanded Switch-Chachoo Cana on Starboard, and Double Flaka Cana, Shaka, Konoon Port. As the rules of a Double elimination is to win twice we were sent intoa super-final, where the winner would take it all.

The windwas painfully light. Luckily I had done a lot of pump training during the lightsummer days… We had to work hard to get our three moves on each side, but asthe red flag went up the score cards read the following moves:

Håkman

Port:Shaka, Double Flaka, Grubby.

Starboard:Switch-Chachoo, Double Puneta, E-slider

Stråhlen

Port:Chachoo, Chachoo 180, Willy Skipper.

Starboard: SwKono, E-slider Diablo, Puneta.

Expectationswere high as we were called back to the beach for a final decision and a prizegiving to follow. Taking third was Kelso after a solid 5 heat streak with histrademark Shakas to top it off. After some drawn out deliberation the top spotswere called out, with me in second and Stråhlen in first. Mr Calle finished 9th due to unfortunate circumstances, but oh was he rocking.

The aftermath

To finishoff a perfect day Calle and I checked in at a real classy hotel and partiedlike rock stars… Or not. But we definitely slept like ones, I passed out on thespot.

Last off Iwould just like to thank the guys from Torhamn for being awesome hosts onceagain, and last but not least give a big shout out to our tour organizer HenrikHagen for the all the work he put into the event.

Håkman out.

SWT Freestyle, Torhamn super special event report

2011-08-30T08:42:00.002+02:00

In progress...

Burners and 30 knot clinics

2011-08-20T19:58:00.000+02:00

Started out by setting up for a full day of clinics in the bay, had a bit too much wind but decided to roll with it. The first guy got his starts right and got his first planing runs, the second blew across the whole bay and managed a gybe, while the rest improved in other ways.

On my account though, I was on 4.8 with solid power and got a few clean stomped Burners and a Kono where I was sure I'd break the board in two. Pretty eventful day, not much time to eat though, but that just makes you fly higher right?

Håkman

Summertime

2011-08-15T11:27:00.005+02:00

Just like the classic Fresh Prince joint we've been maxin and relaxin, doing late nights out and just getting nice on an every day basis. I've practically been living on the water these last couple of weeks; with temperatures going sky-high the wet suit is stashed away, and even though the wind has been pretty moderate the sessions were great. With a few new moves in store for the final months of the season things are looking good, with nationals coming up and the last EFPT event as the big closer. For now though, I'll stay right here and just float...

Check out the Gallery for a few new pictures. My friend Daniel Samuelsson joined in for a photo session, doing real well for a first time shoot. I have a feeling that we can expect to see him on both sides of the lens before long though...

Kono

Håkman

A Mangrove special [Bonaire edit]

2011-07-20T16:59:00.002+02:00

Forgot I had these clips. Knock yourself out.

Håkman

On the serious tip

2011-07-20T16:54:00.000+02:00

Man what awesome one and a half weeks this has been so far, with major sessions every other day and as I'm counting I realize that it's been about seven day in total already. I'm on Lyrön right now - the island where it goes down non stop it seems - and so far I've seshed every spot possible and even found a new one. Best so far was definitely Bäckevik, which is a small very sheltered bay with a window only for pin point NE. We hit that window so hard last weekend and man did it go off; 4.8 totally on fire, Air-Funnels that seemed to never surface and clean Double-Spocks to my surprise. Landed a pretty massive Air-Kono the other day, with an airborn rig flip. Nice. My friend Anders - living on the island - had his first planing runs on my old Chilli 109 I might add, and it looked pretty radical with him taking the longest tail-walk I've ever seen anyone pull off.

On the technical side of things I've been working on consistency this week and it's paying off beautifully, with more speed, control and style. Multiple moves in a row with as good a flow as possible is what I really want, so there's been a lot a use for the light winds on the down days. Hoping that it's going to kick back up soon though.

Håkman

No shirt, no shoes, no problems.

2011-07-01T14:15:00.000+02:00

Been doing a lot of instructing lately, and with the heat really being turned on right now I just can't complain. There's no wind in coming, but every now and then there's a see breeze rolling in, which makes for some light wind pumping. This is probably the only time of the year when other people get to appreciate the sport up close here in Sweden; the beach and cliffs were packed and I threw a few Flakas and Sw-Chachoos real close to shore. Wish it was like this when the wind's on for real though.

Håkman

Hate it or love it

2011-06-28T11:32:00.002+02:00

Echo. Aint it beautiful.

Island bound

2011-06-27T19:45:00.000+02:00

Revisited my favorite place on earth this past weekend to celebrate Midsummer. Scored two monster sessions lit on my 4.8, riding outside the islands called Lyrön and Mollösund. Unbelievably choppy with tons of traffic passing through the channel, bringing me some of the sickest ramps I've ever hit.

Throwing Forwards off of one particular military boat out to exercise their drills in the tough conditions was awesome, but most satisfactory was probably the way I managed my Shakas and Konos. Starting to hit the chop downwind I traveled like a .... which had me get more height and style, and finally an ill Air-Kono covering so much distance like a seagull.

To end the day style with the islands' annual Midsummer party was just great. Imagine a tiny island with one main road and people crowding it up to the max; that as well being where it all happens. Considering it was a little bit too rainy, that we walked way too far, lost it over the music at the outdoors dance floor one too many times and just had expectations too high to meet, I'd say it was your standard anticlimactic but ever so legendary wouldn't-miss-it-for-the-world kind of day. How bout that, one day that has Swedish summer personified, and to finish off I'd like to quote my immensely drunk but ever so wise neighbor: You just know it's all going downhill from here.

Håkman

On point

2011-06-20T21:28:00.001+02:00

Great session today, full power on my 5.2; big Air-Funnels and Konos, huge Skopu attempts, clean Bobs and some Grubby Flakas. Feels like I got my swag back as everything goes way safer and faster. Lovin this summer so far.

Håkman

And we are on

2011-06-18T18:25:00.000+02:00

The season is on! Three sick days so far, with yesterday being the best so far with a solid 28 knots.

Practiced all day in the bay, not Shitbay but the one next to it; big chop and some flat parts in between, running right towards the small beach and swimmers dock. Perfect for high Shakas and Forwards. I managed to land some Air-Flakas too, which was pretty nice as I'd never tried em before. Catching a really powerful gust I barely missed a Skopu as well. The Konos went real nice too, and I think I found the necessary twist in my body to the rig, cause I stomped a few down real flat.

The days best was my new boom, no doubt. I got my hands on a Maui Carbon, which just makes the rig work as it's supposed to. Ducking easily regardless of both chop and gusts I was like: Hmm, maybe the boom is not supposed to move up and down after all. I sure know the Maui doesn't. Rock solid baby.

Håkman

Kiri takes the first!

2011-06-13T08:54:00.000+02:00

Grubby into double Flakas, Air Flaka into Flakas, Spock Culos, Air-bobs, Air-Funnel into Funnels and a simply amazing Air-Kabikuchi in the final heat against his cousin didn't make it to hard for the judges to decide. Kiri on top with the first single in the bag.

Taty was totally on point as well with tight doubles on everything throughout the whole day.

Keep it going. This will no doubt about be one of the, if not the sickest event this year.

Håkman

New pictures in the gallery

2011-06-12T17:12:00.003+02:00

A little bit of Bonaire, and what we managed to collect on tour.

Håkman

New pictures in the gallery

2011-06-12T17:12:00.001+02:00

A little bit of Bonaire, and what we managed to collect on tour.

Håkman

Go Kiri and Mio!

2011-06-12T11:00:00.000+02:00

PWA Bonaire starts today and I have honestly never seen a better forecast than what's coming up right now. Unbelievable. Finally it's coming together.

Bring it on Kiri! Go Mio!

Håkman

One more for the road.

2011-06-11T11:30:00.001+02:00

Another spin yesterday, trying to work on faster combinations and make things a little smoother. With a board that sinks like a rock it's pretty challenging. Looking ahead there seems to be something dropping in after the weekend, hopefully I can get some pictures done then.

Håkman

Schools out! + First sesh at home

2011-06-10T16:39:00.000+02:00

With a less than hectic, and more than tiring, travel back home yesterday I was really fucking excited to hit the books again to prepare for the big ass final presentation that was to be held the next day. Fortunately I could snatch a few hours do spin some sails with my friend Johan, who recently hooked up with F2. Way to go bro.

Dealt with the last day of school today, so now it's in the bag, which feels pretty damn good. Claim. And now the whole summer will be all about windsurfing. I though I might start a work out program to get myself in shape to handle some storms too, so let's see where that leads...

peace for now

Håkman

Sardinia EFPT finished

2011-06-06T15:00:00.000+02:00

That's it unfortunately; no wind, no competition. But, we had a tow in session which was a new experience for me. I managed to somewhat land an Airfunnel. Now we're getting ready to go home where I'll hopefully catch a break with this endless lull that I seem to have been caught in.

Håkman

Sardinia EFPT

2011-06-03T11:24:00.000+02:00

Arriving in Sardinia after one hell of a bus-and-boat trip we were pretty happy to get on the water for a 40 knot 4.0 session, which eventually turned into nothing when the actual competition was to be started the next day.

Were in this mega random hotel with me, Nikke and Adam in one room, Mr. Chico and Edvan in another and Addam (Sims) from the UK in the tiniest one of all. To tell you the truth we're all on the edge of sanity right now. In the making for a pretty awesome movie though... Not even slightly related to windsurfing, of course. It's about fashion, mostly.

Håkman

Milos EFPT end / Adventures in Italy

2011-05-30T19:56:00.003+02:00

I need to learn competition sailing, simple and plain. Had my heat against Adrian Beholz the day after the first heat, but I was way too stressed to get my shit together. But Adrian is a very good heat sailor, and he threw down, so hats off. A 9:th place finish and a lot of important lessons learned, cashing in enough prize money to pay the room and the food, so it's all good.

Anyhow, I was on my 5.2 and the 88 - the wind was very flaky - and managed to catch the largest lull ever going out to the top of the heat area. I didn't make it in time, and had to start half-way up. Loosing my cool to that unfortunate mistake I started out with a Double Flaka, followed by a Grubby and an Eslider. Starting to feel good I wanted a Sw Kono without taking my time to set it up properly, and had the sail come forward, forcing me to make a weak Funnel instead. On the next tack Adrian put up a smooth Shaka, and I though I'd answer with one of my own; looking for the first chop avaliable pumping to get speed it didn't end that well and I crashed. Knowing that Adrian had at least one move to his advantage I hurried up to put up an easy Sw-Chachoo but caught a rail. Being off balance I went for another Shaka but went down with a similar crash. I knew that was it, you can only crash so many times, so I took another run on starboard and tacked. Just before the red flag went up I wanted to see if my Kono worked in the light wind, which it did evidentially - Perfect duck and a really nice rotation with a slightly wet landing. At least I finished well...

On a brighter note: Nikke and Adam made it all the way to the top 4! The wind didn't play ball unfortunately, so they had to stop the heats and call it a day. Nonetheless, it was nice to see them share the podium with the Italians.

Me, Nikke and Adam squeezed in Chicos' and Edvans' (from Jeri in Brazil) big van, and sped off to Italy to catch a ferry on which we slept for 14 hours. We even went through an evacuation drill, which was announced like a real evacuation. Scared the shit out of me. We woke up to sirens, voices shouting in Italian from the speakers, and Nikke - who's studying to be a captain - told us the procedures; Leave your stuff and run. Coming up to the main deck we were relieved to see a calm blue-bird Italian morning.

Right now we're in the most unbelievable mansion located in an estate in Olbia, home to Chicos' and Edvans' sponsor. I can't really find any words to describe it, but imagine a golf course holding just one giant house. They have a dog. But I think it's a bear.

Håkman

EFPT interview with Håkman & Nikke

2011-05-29T11:15:00.005+02:00

The first day at Milos we scored this pretty nice, yet pretty wierd interview. Check it out.

And here is a quote from yesterdays' news on EFPT.net:

Swedens Erik Hakman (Starboard/Gaastra) jumped Shakas and Konos only minutes before his heat, but had a bad start in the heat. „The flags went up, I saw this chop, I knew this is my Shaka jump, and then, I crashed it!“ said Hakman wired up after his performance. While his opponent Filippo Bestetti (RRD/RRD) was all set, he re-set his strategy from new school to basic. It was a good decision. Today, Erik Hakman won his first heat ever on the European Freestyle Pro Tour.

Now were waiting for the wind to kick in, and then it's off to Sardinia.

Håkman

First EFPT heat, ever...

2011-05-28T22:50:00.000+02:00

All morning I went through the most drawn out anticipation ever; with the wind steadily but very slowly increasing we were put on hold hour by hour. When we decided to get out to start the warm up I had pumped myself up with Big L for 2 hours, easily.

I was in the second heat, the first one being with Adam Gavriel from Israel - who strangely but awesomely enough speaks perfect Småländska (Swedish). He went against Loick, and they had to re-sail their heat once before it was finalized. Adam won doing his Shakas and Double Flakas.

Waiting outside the vast event area I got in the zone somehow, and started nailing Konos (Switch and regular), Shakas and even an Air-Funnel. Only thing was that I wasn't quite sure when it was time to start the actual heat. The beach was so far away that I couldn't tell whether the flags were blue, green or pink. Caught slighly off guard I saw my opponent (Filippo Bestetti from Italy) going for it as the heat suddenly started; having gotten my confidence back I dropped my original game plan and decided to go big the first thing I did. Seeing this chop line up I impulsively went for a Shaka which didn't work as before and had my sail dig deep into the water. Loosing time I decided to stick with all of my basic moves, that eventually got me where I wanted to be. Finally claiming a Shaka on the last run was probably what saved my day.

As I got back to the beach I heard the annoucements, and was totally psyched when I heard my name being called out. First EFPT heat ever, and it was good!

After that the wind went away completely, but we're putting our hopes to tomorrow. I'll be up against Adrian Beholz from Germany. Time to bring the big game.

Håkman

Finally. Stacked.

2011-05-25T20:56:00.000+02:00

Finally there's a light; we got to jump today, emphasize on jump as a singular. After a well equipped (all the gadgets were there) sun-and-swim session working on our sling-shot skills the wind decided to show up.

All of the guys were out together, so we had a pretty good time, even though I could've hoped to be a bit smoother. Nevertheless, feels I'm starting to get my groove back.

An awesome fact, just FYI, is that we saw two kites today. Now you probably think: Two kites,hwat?! Approved, if the reality of the situation wouldn't have been that they were working as one entity. They were stacked. Stacking is apparently the new thing. But the question is: How much can you stack? Really?

Håkman

Håkman & Nikke in Greece

2011-05-24T23:07:00.002+02:00

I can’t seem to catch a break; 4 weeks of constant intense studies with no windsurfing, and now there’s no wind, and we’re in Greece. Anyhow, me and Nikke made the best of the situation today as we went on the road with a big van from the centre. Barely making it through town, finding a gas station in the middle of nowhere, after taking directions from five different people who all told us different things. We were seriously feeling like locals when we found the horn and started honking it everyone and everything.

Coming back we tried the water, which was surprisingly cold – my wetsuit was more than a necessity – and really really choppy. There was no wind, but judging from the feeling I got it’ll be a pretty challenging competition venue.

At night we went into town to see what it was about. Hung out, bought a sling-shot, shot food at people and eventually decided to go home. The thing was that we got there by car, but had to walk back. Long walk, many dogs.

Three days to comp, gotta pray for wind.

Håkman

Håkman on tour: EFPT

2011-05-20T20:11:00.001+02:00

Here we go. Enter Greece on Monday, Italy the week after. I'll give you the 411 when it's on.

peace

Mio-style (Jälit bra!) - with Mio, Erik and Ellen

2011-05-07T19:15:00.003+02:00

Back with another edit. This time it's Mio and me in a best of both worlds typeof joint, where Sweden meets Japan, on Bonaire.

-Läget då?
(Finns bara ett svar)
-Jälit bra!

(Mofeta & Jerre, 2006)

This one goes out to yall on the other side of the world:

Look! Look! Look! Part 4 (It's new!)

2011-04-29T21:24:00.001+02:00

Everything seems to be new even though it's old nowadays, so Kiri and I decided to take up the challenge and create something you actually haven't seen. It's the fourth installment of the Look! Look! Look! series; old concept, new shit. You know how it goes.

Special feature: We don't just freestyle, we race too (guess you didn't know, so it's new too then...).

Håkman

In the pipe: Look! Look! Look! Part 4.

2011-04-26T20:55:00.000+02:00

Yeah it's coming, keep a look out.

Went back to school today. Life's a bitch, but I'll wrap it up in a month though, so guess she's pretty fly still.

Håkman

Back again

2011-04-25T08:18:00.000+02:00

They say all good things must come to an end. I usually don't agree, but there is something about the feeling of the culmination of certain things. This time on Bonaire is a perfect example; awesomeness squared, totally stoked out of my mind on everything this year. Looking back at the amazing moments that passed makes you appreciate the present so much more, which is exactly what I did this year. So many great new, and old friends, crazy new moves and good times on a daily basis.

Even though these three last weeks were windless - thus no possibilities to film for the sequel of my first edit - I still had loads of fun. Don't get me wrong though, I got a lot of video material, but it's not what you're used to. You might, certainly me and Kiri might, say 'it's new'. Would have to get back to you on that matter though, as school starts tomorrow, and I'm right now hanging back waiting to board my flight from Amsterdam to home.

I got plans now though, just have to put some exams in the bag and then it's time to go on tour. Can't wait.

Later

Håkman

Kuma in Bonaire feat. Håkman, Kiri and Loick

2011-04-06T14:37:00.000+02:00

Got myself a whole segment in this edit. All filmed during one session on Echo 5.2 and Flare 88.

peace

Håkman

Combination moves everywhere!

2011-04-04T03:11:00.001+02:00

This is it, the wind is off the hook. Today was amazing, especially in the morning when I went on 4.8 (solid) with Kiri. I got the Puneta into Sw Kono first thing in the morning, then a few times more with better landings.

We was in the Mangrove of course, and Kiri was going aggressive on the trees indide - taking quadruple Air-funnels all the way in there. Kabukuchi into triple spock, no big deal. Like, what.? Eventually seeing that shit go down you don't wanna be any worse, so I got to it, and before I knew it there I was; sliding backwards out of a regular Kono. I got the feeling now, closing the Kono for a Kabikuchi. Just gotta work on taking it down aggressive and let it spin.

With that in the bag I went on to something else, going out into the chop taking my Spock with full speed, stalling that rotation kicking it into a Kono. Spock into Kono feels so good, I had like three of em and the last one was so clean. Super fast Spock, stalled perfect, sail down full of power, let it rip, BAM. Clean Kono.

And as if that wasn't enough, I got to squeeze in another two combos before I got all dizzy. Taking that evening session with a clear head and newfound confidence in my strong wind skills, I put down some hardcore Burners, feeling that something might be possible for the exit. One was so perfect, as the duck let me spin clean and land full speed using the heavy swing of the sail to spin another 360 for the exit. I wanted to jump but Burner 360 is pretty sick too.

For good measure I broke out my sliding skills and took an Eslider into Puneta all the way home.

peace, and I'm out like that.

Håkman

On dat 4.8 baby

2011-03-31T04:43:00.001+02:00

Håkman

Signed Håkman

2011-03-28T14:52:00.001+02:00

Check out SearchMagazine's online issue for my column entitled Signed Håkman, which will run during this season, whether it means travel, homebase sessions or contests. This issue is an introductory feature from the first months here on Bonaire.

For those of you in Sweden, pick up a paperback in your local surf shop, sport store or major warehouse.

Ps. It's in English guys, no worries.

Håkman

Ups and downs

2011-03-28T03:52:00.000+02:00

The wind is strong right now, real strong. I've been on my 4.8 all day, and to tell you the truth I'm a little fucked up right now.

The morning was terrible, as I was so not used to the sail or the strong wind. Don't get me wrong, switch was still excellent and I was dunking in perfect Burners - even one planing Burner 360 (flipping the sail while landing) - and Air-funnels like it was nothing. But the regular side was a mess. My duck was so off, and nothing seemed to work. Like usually, when I'm on my 5.2, I duck perfect and really safe, but this was something else. Nevertheless I spent the entire morning working on that, and finally had to give up and get something to eat.

Well on the beach Kiri explained to me how every sail-size ducks different, which makes perfect sense as the size decreases the sail get's faster.

Going back out there to work it out in the afternoon I put all of my effort into getting the duck right. It got better and better as the session went on, and finally I was able to put the sail down gently even though the wind was howling. This put my Konos back where they're supposed to be; in a very dry place.

I went over to the Mangrove for a short while too, and claimed a few Triple Punetas with pretty good speed. It's a fun move when the water is flat, and it feels pretty cool.

After getting that done I went back on my Kono hunt. There are pictures somewhere, and if I get them I'll put em up. But, just as it was getting late and people started getting off the water, I got in that zone again. Going slighly downwind in massive gusts, ducking the sail smooth and safe, I was blasting off two picuture perfect totally standing ones. This was not it though. I though: OK, one more time, here we go, this run is for the money. I came in, laid down the same perfect duck, kicked in a small carve upwind and just let it rip. I took her down with full control and full speed. When I say full speed, I mean full speed. Stomp, bam. Flipp the sail, and just took that shit to school. I couldn't decide whether to do a Flaka or Spock out of it, so I just kept planing and hopped some mediocre excuse for a Flaka. But man, the speed, the height, the stoke.

The road to greatness through the valley of adversity.

Håkman

Kuma in the building

2011-03-27T01:35:00.002+01:00

I swear to god, writing this I'm so tired I'm about to pass out. I'm busting my ass every day right now trying to make shit work, and it does, it sure does. Air-Funnel almost every time both in the flat - oh it's so sick to do it in the Mangrove - and the chop. Today I dailed in the Burner for real too; made 20 of em in the morning, with two hat-tricks (3 in a row), plus hella stomped ones. Then I got it on with style in the chop too. The Kono is right there too, and I can make it dmn near every time. I landed one that was totally planing in the afternoon, flipping the sail and riding it out all the way up on the beach.

On another very happy note, Kuma movie is on the island right now. If you don't know him I'll just say that he singlehandedly took care of the media coverage of the Vietnam event. To that you can also add the stack of edits he's been delivering from last years Fuerte grand slam. He makes the music himself, and does the gnarliest follow cams. He just finished an introductory Bonaire edit - which you can check out below - but part 2 will be out shortly, and there will be action. Believe you me.

Håkman

Zonin'

2011-03-19T12:49:00.001+01:00

Lightwind-sessions require a lot of effort, but can be so rewarding at the same time. Take the four hours I practiced yesterday. To start off noone was planing at all, but as I made my way over to the Mangrove - covering that distance takes a while without speed - the gusts started moving in by the edge of the woods'. Somehow I seem to have found the sweet-spot on my equipment lately, so when I felt the wind starting to pull my sail it was just sheet and go. I was dry at that time, and I stayed dry during the next 20 minutes, easily. Had every slidemove possible carried out, including a few doubles and Switch Flakas. Such a great feeling.

Off to repeat that feat.

Håkman

Light winds

2011-03-16T13:51:00.000+01:00

Had an aggressive session with very weak winds yesterday. The first half hour was decent, and then I got to practice pumping, a lot of pumping. Main focus was on doing moves with the least speed possible, and I had quite some progression; getting a few good Shakas with a new technique I just discovered, as well as the usual repertoire of Switch and Regular slide-moves. All in all pretty nice, but what's ahead of us right now ups the niceness significantly.

Håkman

Denied

2011-03-13T15:13:00.000+01:00

Woke up this morning, high expectations set. Lunch packed and ready, time just perfect to pull off a quick hitch-hike. I pull the curtains aside, and to my surprise the palm trees are silently swinging back and forth without even the slightest breeze. I turn on the computer and the forcasts were changed, I take a look at the webcams and they're all broken (well, almost). Guess this will be another school-day...

On a brighter note, we have a pretty solid forecast entering as of tomorrow. Let's just hope it's on point.

Ok, I'm off to drop the subject, verb, then the predicate.

Håkman

Bonaire - the Prelude [Movie edit]

2011-03-11T04:45:00.004+01:00

Yessir, it is finally done. Keep a look out for the main event though, dropping end of April. Without no further ado, here's my half-time report from the island of style. This is the prelude:

Håkman

Where you at?

2011-03-06T14:28:00.001+01:00

There seems to be something wrong with the trades right now, cause we ain't gettin no wind. Oh well, better hit the books. But I'll leave you with yet another sequence though.

Håkman

Photos for patience

2011-03-05T18:58:00.000+01:00

Cleaned my house, my clothes, my fridge, my bed and even some of the local animals today. No video yet though, but here another sequence.

Håkman

Picture sequence

2011-03-04T15:45:00.001+01:00

Here's a little something to pass the time waiting for my clips of awesomeness to show up.

4.8 with authority, redemption time

2011-03-02T14:24:00.000+01:00

It's been totally insane for about a week now, with the 5 packed and stacked under a table and my 4.8 just rocking every day. The first three days was all about swimming, literally. I think I crashed pretty much everthing exept the occational Burner, Kono and AirFunnel here and there. This and the Shaka is what I'm working hard at right now, and in the last two days my hard work decided to pay off. It was all about redemption. I'll try to break it down for you, day and move-wise.

On Monday the Kono got better all of a sudden, as my duck seemed to increase its consistency. I landed a few nice ones, and had plenty of over rotations. There's a clip of something decently clean out there that I'll present to you in due time. But, this isn't it though, as when the evening came along me and Cesare went out to rock the dark. The wind was strong, I felt confident. I had a few good landings, but nothing spectacular; that is until I hit it off just perfect, going super high, landing super flat and super fast. All of a sudden I was just right there, planing out of it clew-first. I mean, the landing was so smooth, totally upright. Unfortunately there was no repeat performance, as I just couldn't find a gust solid enough. But nonetheless, it was by far the sickest thing I've done, ever.

This brings us to yesterday, when I luckily ended up in a filming session in the Mangroves with Julien, Bastien and Remko. The wind was seemingly light, though I was still on 4.8 (best sail ever... holla). Nevertheless, everyone was throwing down. I don't want to spoil my surprise that I have planned for one of the next few days, but I will say that I landed my most awesome moves on Starboard, going switch that is. Doubles and Airmoves, it all just seemed to come together. I just hope it's all on tape. Fingers crossed...

Yeah. Redemption. I'd say that that's what it was all about. Right now though, it's all about R&R. I'm beat.

Håkman

Kono frenzy

2011-02-26T13:43:00.000+01:00

On my 4.8 yesterday, it was awesome! I konoed all over the place. Me and Remko seshed the evening, both on 4.8, and we decided for a last run of the day. Both of us sped off towards the pier, I saw him swing this huge Air Flaka into Flaka, and I caugth a perfect gust at the same time; the duck was solid, waiting a second to get the full power in the sail, taking off hard, sheeting in even harder, moment of truth (landing), man I was hooked in Clew-First, taking a smack down landing but being hooked in threw me into a second spin and I lost it. But nonetheless, it was sick.

It was something like this, but 5 times bigger...

Håkman

Such nice weather we're having...

2011-02-25T03:19:00.001+01:00

Totally rained in today, no joke. Couldn't even get out of my house, or get a ride to the beach for that matter. I walked into town though, thinking I'd pay my rent and get back before the sky came down on me. Do you think I got back in time? No f------ way. I was dryer after a run trying all my hardest moves on the water yesterday. Seriously. AirFunnel, Kono, Burner. Still, not even close to the wetness I achived today. Anyways, took it easy, took in some grammar, cleaned some shit. Really hope this weather gets a grip on itself soon. I want to see the sun.

Håkman

Bonaire pictures continued

2011-02-24T13:21:00.000+01:00

We’re having the weirdest weather. Yesterday it was just pouring down, blasting 30 knots in between the showers – I was on 5.2, and it was wild – I landed my cleanest Burner so far. I spun the sail perfectly, and it was just right there waiting for me when I landed. It felt so easy, but sadly repeating it was not. I over rotated a few Konos too, man this trick has tricky parts in all conditions. Oh, and I got another Air-Funnel 900, but really full speed all the way.

In the afternoon I thought it would be a good Idea to set up my 4.8, but the wind decided to drop, of course. So I practiced my spinning instead, which I haven’t done that much on port. I had a lot of fun doing Grubbys and Spocks into Flakas, and actually got a Grubby into Double Flaka once. The spinning feels really nice when you do a fast trick to start it off, and then just swing that shit through to see how far you can take it.

Grubby

Håkman

First photos from Bonaire

2011-02-21T23:34:00.001+01:00

I won’t say that much yet, but this week looks like it means business. Knock on wood… I landed a Bob today again, with one hand. Working on that mid-air hand change to get it smooth, so I think it'll turn out good soon.

Here’s a little something from a light wind photo session with my Belgian friend Philip.

Air-Funnel

There’s a lot more where that came from, and I’ll give it to you in due time. But, to leave you with a hint: Look for the upcoming issue of Search Magazine on paper in Sweden or online if you’re somewhere else. Shit will be tight.

Håkman

Still at it, but just barely.

2011-02-18T00:05:00.000+01:00

I'll just go for a quick update, as time is of the essence right now. I have a lot of things going on; trying to get everything toghether with the school work, working on an article as we speak (ed. write, read), getting enough food (seriously, it's an issue, I've never been as hungry as in these past 4 days), and spending as much time as possible on not so windy sessions. It's been terribly light windwise these past 2 weeks, but my reportoire is improving rapidly as my technique improves, and the moves get faster, cleaner and more efficient. Grubbys are so nice right now, I really feel them bouncing around.

Today though, I learnt a new trick: Switch Flaka, with one hand. Just barely falling off a reach, I release the front hand and slice the sail while popping and twisting hips and shoulders upwind, simultaniously. The spins get nice and fast, and the feeling is pretty awesome. The best thing though, is that I get it pretty much every time even in light winds.

Need more wind though. How's that for a biggest concern, huh?

Håkman out

I got my swagga back

2011-02-11T00:16:00.000+01:00

Sickest session so far, by a mile; 5 hours solid 5.2 increasing in wind strength as it went on. Everybody were out, and there were crazy moves thrown and massive crashes taken everywhere. The mangrove was a warzone, with jellyfish charging from underneath the surface, and super smooth flat water on top. The further in you went, the flatter it got, and the flatter it got, the more wind there were, and the further in you went, the greater the chance of ending up with a pizza-sizes jellyfish in your pants was.

Anyhow, I landed my best Burner yet, all clean like sliding into the 5. It felt really sick to do them in on the superflat with a lot of power in the sail. Now I just need better technique so it’ll work in light winds too.

The Air-Funnel is working like a charm, as I’m going higher and higher every time I try. I still crash a lot though, but when it works it’s pretty damn fast. I landed two more 900s though - didn’t get anything with a 2 pop yet - so that’s what I’ll work on. I made one of them in front on Mike and he said that the first rotation almost had the clew pass into the 540 while I was in the air. Nice.

Oh, and best of all is the new and improved Kono. This particular move has been just out of reach for a while now, and during this session I felt like it was coming. I had this growing sensation of understanding in the back of my head, and on this one run I saw Taty make one where he kinda threw his head back and had the sail swing him back up to land totally upright. I knew this was it, I could feel it. So I went out from the mangroves, caught a good gust, ducked the sail perfectly and sort of steered it through the wind for a second before I popped off and tucked in. Before I knew it I heard the board smack underneath my feet, and just like that I slid for a second before I flipped the sail and made the mandatory lock-in claim. After this I swear to god, it just got better. This one time I landed totally dry with just my head dipping in, wow it felt so awesome. This might be my new favorite, even though a good Air-Funnel still makes my mind sway.

So that was it, and when I got back on the beach Taty told me that he had seen the Konos and that they looked good. What more can you ask for, really?

On a totally unrelated but pretty funny note: I had a scooter for 1 whole day, but now it doesn’t work any more so we have to fix it. That is Bonaire for ya.

Håkman

There we go

2011-02-08T03:52:00.000+01:00

Now I'm starting to see some consistency, and style improvement for that matter. Today I really figured out the Air-Funnel, and learnt that you can make it work even if the wind's not working with you. It's all about the ducking. Anyways, I had one of them go incredibly high in front of one of my friends, and he said, and I quote: "It was like this ...(holding out hand to size up, somewhere at boom height)... a meter and a half, easily." I couldn't stop the spin either, so I had to spin another 360 before I could finish it. Air-Funnel 900. There we go.

On another note, Mike Burns came in today. Fun to see him again. He had gotten a lot better too, and threw a nice Air-Funnel himself, plus one of the most horrible Burner crashes I've ever seen. His face made a nearly permanent sunscreen mark on the sail, haha. I, on the other hand, got to land my first Burner on the 5.2, right in front of him. Felt pretty nice, and I'm starting to get the hang of it I think.

In addition to this I sailed with Youp, who is stuck in some sort of Culo loop, where he just seems to go round and round and round and... You get the picture. He does nothing but Culos, hates switch cause he can only do Skopus and comes to my house to show me videos without batteries in the camera. Rockstar.

The switch Flaka slides good now, too good almost, and I over spin constantly. The Double Eslider and Puneta on the other hand, works like a charm.

Off to sleep, more fun tomorrow.

Håkman

Thank god it's Friday.

2011-02-05T02:44:00.000+01:00

Had a nice hitch-hike this morning, got in four different cars, one of which I had to have a big dog on my lap in. Got to the beach though, and did some practice heats in the light winds; I can do the grubby, spock and flaka variations really quick now, same thing with the switch moves. I'm starting to get hold of the Switch Flaka too, which feels good as I really need something new to do on that side. On one good occation there was a pretty decent gust of wind, and I got to punch out a good, fast Air-Funnel. We really need a little bit more wind though. The other guys aren't even sailing these days. Nah well, their loss I guess.

Got this pic from Sweden actually, my mom found it on one of the web-cams. Freedom. Serenity. Just me, the wind, the ocean, and a dude on a 7.5.

Håkman out

Pursuit of happiness

2011-02-03T23:47:00.000+01:00

I'm on cloud 9 right now. Like seriously; can it get better than this?

Sailed really well today, the Kono is coming back; I landed a lot, but now the style will be reworked. Had a quick session with Youp end of the day, he landed 4 Culos in a row. I landed Sw Flaka and a perfekt Shaka.

Later (gotta savour this delicious reunion now and watch some Californication).

This one goes out to Sir Johan.

Håkman

Two days of fun and school

2011-02-03T03:01:00.000+01:00

These past two days I've been working hard at both my school work and my new moves. Time is divided into surf time and reading time, but when the wind's on it's all about surfing as hard as possible.

Yesterday evening was seriously nuking, with my 5.2 over-powered and just trowing the biggest Shakas I've ever done. On one run from the mangroves back to the beach I actually stomped out 6 Shakas in a row before I went out to hitchhike my way home in the dark, wearing soked boardshorts and a t-shirt. Good times.

Today was less than expected, but I had a nice afternoon session with emphasise on doing everything quick, fast, with a lot of slide and in a small space. I got double Sw-Chachoos with full speed and good 2 pop, an Airfunnel that was just soo smooth and a lot of single standard moves linked together one after another.

Now I just had sick pork chops and rice, getting pretty good at cooking here now. And hey, I got some raisins for my oats tomorrow. Yeah.

Håkman

The joy of hitch-hiking

2011-02-01T02:14:00.001+01:00

What can I say, it's a bitch.

Håkman

New moves! Burner and Shaka-Flaka.

2011-01-31T02:48:00.000+01:00

Hode. Today was good, real good. I hitchhiked for 45 minutes before I got a ride though, but apart from that...

I went 4.8 and had some solid power, straight to the mangroves, and worked more on the Air-Funnel. They're getting better, and with the strong wind I go a lot higher and spin faster. But the fun part started when I tried a Burner and had such a good duck that I just easily went upwind and then spun around. I landed with the sail backwinded, but a little bit too strong so I lost it. Two attemps later I went far into the flat section in the mangroves, with a little bit less power - good speed though - and did the exact same thing as before, but with anticipation for the landing. There it was, just like that. Landing 360, bam. Turned for the 5 and claimed it.

On the way out I did some good fully planing Shakas, and one got so good that I just had to trow it into another 360. The weird thing though, is that it felt so easy.

Later on we sailed all together in the shallow end by the beach, I accidentally stomped through to hard on a landing for and Air-Funnel, so I really fucked up my fin (split the tip). Gotta try to do something about that tomorrow.

Thank god for the sweet weather and wind we're having.

Håkman

Frog issues

2011-01-30T13:53:00.002+01:00

Ellen said...

Does it look somethin like this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXHaCEhOiWU

Oh, snap.

Håkman

More fun

2011-01-30T02:51:00.001+01:00

Got up this morning, had a long wait for a ride – hitchhiking gets on your nerves seriously – and finally got to the beach. I had packed a lot of nice food; sandwiches, digestives, apples, juice and so on. When I got there it was pretty slow cause everyone had been out partying the night before, but I was determined to go. The wind came along after a while, and I tuned my sail in waiting for a few more knots. Then Kiri came in and we went out together again. No one else wants to go when it’s light. But we had triple fun.

At first we just did ordinary sliding moves, and with the new secret skill that he showed me yesterday I get more speed and more slide, hopefully even more style (!). When the wind picked up a little the mangrove got so sick, and I finally landed a perfect Air-Funnel going in before Kiri, and then he answered with Air-Funnel into Puneta Cana. Haha. It was like being the man and then taken to school at the same time. Awesome. After that I had a really good gust and landed a big – like probably the biggest I’ve done – Sw Kono, totally stomping the board. Gotta take it easy and start noselanding I think… The best thing though was the Air-Funnel practice, as I got all the good tips and finally really got to feel how it should be done properly.

When I came home I cooked food for me and my neighbor as payback for the pizza frenzy last night. Here’s what we had, plus a peak at what my house looks like.

No I’m gonna go frog-chasing. This is the new thing, as that m*fucker never seems to leave the house even though I throw him out. That reminds me: Gotta by some tools for that, like a box with a stick and a string attached to it. My neighbour said some of the animals like alcohol, so maybe I'll put some out for the frog. He might be easier to catch when he's drunk. Nah well.

Håkman

Cesare-style

2011-01-29T02:27:00.001+01:00

Today I had the sickest lightwind, like pumping, session - with Kiri. We pumped, spun and made sail tricks like never before. He taught me another secret to getting the real Kiri-style with slide and flair, and I'm not gonna tell you what it is, but I can say that I got better by the minute. Winds that normally produces single flakas now give possibilities for doubles, or in Kiris' case triples. Haha. We had so much fun, really nice to have so much fun and learn endeless new things at the same time. When I caught a gust I was as close as can be to landing a Burner; the duck, going upwind, was perfect and the spin so fast and high that the board was clear of the water all the way around, but the sail just got stuck in the water. I'm gonna get it though.

Later I did a little photo-shoot with Cesare. Me and Julien were both out with cameras trying to get som sick angles on Cesares' new radical light wind, big board move. Check it out below.

After I got back from the beach my two super cool neighbours had made tons of pizza, and they needed help to bake it and eventually eat it. I'm full now. And tired.

Håkman

Busy times

2011-01-28T03:12:00.000+01:00

I had a rough day today for sure; the main thing was to go find a scooter, so I can go to the beach and the supermarket without hitchhiking. Easier said than done. I tried and tried, but finally I just had to let it wait and hike my way to the beach. It's kinda far away, so it takes a while when you're in the middle of town, and gets even more problematic being as white as I am right now. Thank god for +50 kids sunscreen.

When I got to the beach I could chill though, eat the snack pack (big double meat combo sandwhiches made earlier) I brought, and then go for lightwind practice.

After the session I pulled out my book and studied in front of Cesare doing his thing on the beginner boards. He's got some new crazy stuff, I can tell you that much.

Håkman

Second day and new moves

2011-01-27T03:27:00.002+01:00

Man, I'm rusty, but hey, guess what... I landed 2 new double combinations today: E-slider and Sw-Chachoo. On top of that I got many good, and now more consistent, Air-Funnels. Good full 360s, with nice landings. The Kono is sort of getting there, but the duck is just gone right now. When I work that out it's time to get some style though.

In the final session we had good power for 5.2, and Taty was doing spock-culos landing smack flat every time, how he gets the speed doesn't even make sense. Surfing here is so much fun, inspiring and full on progression madness to say the least.

Later Kiri came over and we hung out in my house after the surf, and we talked about the way moves should be done, analyzed and so on. He has so much knowledge about the dynamics and - for sure - philosofy of freestyle. That's what makes his flow so smooth on the water, must be. So with all this in my brain I'll sleep in an airmove-dreamland tonight.

Oh, and today I opened my ELT (English Language Teaching) books, sitting by the water, listening to Big-L. I was focussed. My mind feels really clear hear.

Håkman

And we are on

2011-01-26T03:23:00.000+01:00

I'm back. Fullfilled first and last promise in my previous post. Surfed full power 5.2 all day, landed my sickest Shakas (one Cana) so far, really good Sw Konos with slide, a few moderately wet regular Konos, Double Puneta onehandeds and nearly Double Eslider. One or two Airfunnels as well, and a fucking nice crash in front of Kiri. By the way, he is insane on all levels. 2 meter Airbobs on flatwater with 5.2. Snapping tripple Shakas like that, and just undeniably killing everyone with every move. Taty made some insane Airmoves in the chop too, with powerful style like always.

More later.

Håkman

Bonaire

2011-01-24T11:34:00.000+01:00

Leaving for Bonaire today, 3 months of nothing but windsurfing, english grammar and rice.

I'll give you pictures, videos and my view on things. And hopefully learn shitloads of new moves from Mr. Kiri.

Check back later.

Håkman

Recent stuff.

2011-01-17T11:52:00.004+01:00

All snow these past 2-3 months. Didn't film that much, but here's a little somthing.

Later

Håkman

Guess that's it then.

2010-12-08T17:33:00.005+01:00

Looking out the window every day is just like; wow, how snowy is Sweden? Haven't seen this much snow in a many years, probably cause last years share was more extreme, but I was in the Philippines at that time.

Anyhow, opening day on the local hill was last weekend, major fun. Shitbay just froze up. Not like it matters though, it's just never windy any more anyway. Would be sick to sail a snowstorm or just crack up a hole in the ice and do some geckos.

In the meantime, check out all the best stuff from last year on the FBAY-TV just above.

Håkman

Chillin' in my SAGAz (skiing)

2010-11-28T19:31:00.004+01:00

Whatup everyone, been on the low for a while now since it's full on winter here in Sweden right now; snowing every day, temperatures as low as -10 and nothing but NE winds. We try to maintain the stoke though, so once the snow came we went to work on it, and after some days of building and shaping we managed to put together a small but fun park for skiing on home base. Just a few day ago I had my super steezy new to da kneez SAGA jacket (XL is 100cm tall how sick is that!!! Check out more from Saga Outerwear on their homepage) come in from the States, got my skis fixed, and best of all a stoked little sister to shred with - life is good.

Below are some shots from a session today, we're working on the technique for opening day on the local hill next weekend. Can't wait to hit some bigger jumps.

SAGAz on, gave Burton to Ellen...

First we built the inrun, then the kicker. Then we made the landing...

First hit (the 360's so close)

360 mutegrab.

The longer you hold it the more you'll feel how flat the landing is.

Style with eeze equals - Steeze

Want the double grab? Then you needz to be quick.

Ok, I iz... Look.

Air awareness

Going in switch

Switch somthing

White man can jump, but under different circumstances.

The size of the kicker doesn't matter, it's how much you pop.

Håkman

Up to date

2010-11-15T18:00:00.001+01:00

Quite a lot of sessions lately, nothing extraordinary, just good practice in very, very winterlike conditions. It's not unbearable yet, but it's starting to get pretty damn chilly.

I've been progressing a lot on my Burners; just the other day I was on my 4.0, which I'm really getting the hang of with the ducking now, and went for it but caught a gust just as the sail rotations started. I let the back hand go, which really swung the sail around. Then it was so easy, I just popped and twisted my body, landing 360 without even touching the sail in the water. That was pretty unexpected - as the sail usually sticks in the water - so I fell off the board just as I tried to stick the move. The feeling was really cool though, especially when the rotation was so fast and fluid. It actually feels kinda like the Air-Funnel in that aspect, the difference being the invert on the Burner. Anyhow, I've been working on it in my mind and I think that I've got the key, so with another good sessions there might be a claim. Hopefully.

Today I sailed all by myself while the sun set slowly and made the water all pink and purple, with a golden horizon. Pretty sweet, but not that much wind so I probably got like 15 moves working the gusts. Feels good though, the pieces are falling into place; as every new skill - whether it's moving the sail differently in the ducking on both sides, using one hand instead of two, getting a different stance or body positioning - is adding up to make the whole game so much tighter.

Had a new photographer show up in the hood with a massive objective, Mikael Svensson, check out one of his pictures and his website on the link below. His stuff is mostly nature-related, but we might convince him to mix it up in the future. Hehe. Unfortunately the wind was pretty much dead when he started shooting, so we didn't get anything crazy, but with that 4.0 powered up you can almost touch the sky.

Kono, 4.0, by N Mikael Svensson.

Peace,
Håkman

Konos on tape

2010-11-05T23:45:00.002+01:00

Konos, Erik Håkman S-1988 from Erik Håkman on Vimeo.

Had some good sessions lately, improved a lot on all the moves. The other day I took some well earned time off school after all the recent exams, and got to go full power on my 5.2 all day long in the Shitbay sunshine. Man it was nice. I had another surprise visit too, this time by my mom, who shot a couple of my Konos while I was workin on em.

Håkman

Short movie from Saturday

2010-11-01T19:36:00.000+01:00

South-East F-bay from Erik Håkman on Vimeo.

I sailed some side-off 5.2 with Johann and Karin all morning when the wind was nice, landed my first good, high Forward - pretty stoked on that. I also got my best Kono yet: full high 360, stomped and totally dry, shoulda flipped the sail right at landing, then it would've been Kiristyle forreal.

When everybody had gone home already, cause the wind died, my lil sister Ellen came to visit and filmed for a while. Check it out.

Håkman

Monster forward session + new move...

2010-10-28T20:42:00.000+02:00

Yesterday was so damn windy, easily 40 knots. I was on my 4.0 maxed out, rocking double gloves - yeah, it's that cold - full on winter suited up.

Started out pretty good, rigging took me like 20 mins cause my shit kept trying to fly away. When done I barely made it out into the water, but as I got going I landed a lot of stuff well, considering it was really, really gusty. Double Punetas full speed all the way, almost feeling the triple there sometimes, but not yet. Some planed out Flakas and Double Flakas, loosing no speed whatsoever. One attempt was pretty crazy, as the wind kept swingin from SW to SE, and I went for my One-handed Flaka, but felt the wind swing mid-air, which sent me into a full aerial rotation. It was kinda like hitting a wall with the sail, but it felt surprisingly good, so I landed the Air Flaka and went on with my sesh.

Later I got ridiculously tired, and the wind got worse and worse inside on the flat, so I decided to make it happen and charged for the biggest ramp possible, throwing a big, megasmashed Forward. Man, the smack when I slammed my back for the landing was just too much and I couldn't hold it. After that I just kept punching out as many attempts as I could, and by the end of the sesh I had gotten a pretty good feel for it. All that's left is to control the landing and get to stomp it. Would be pretty sweet...

Ok, today I had a double day lined up, starting with a few hours pre-school with Johann, and an after-exam sesh with Hank. In the morning the wind was not so good, gusty like always, on the good ol 5.2, but when it came through I got to claim my first Double E-slider. I had two good Konos and Double Punetas too. At the end I just couldn't resist it - even though my back hurt mad much from yesterdays punishment - and I threw three more loops, getting nice aerial control, full rotation, but no luck landing. It's getting there though. In due time, in due time.

Håkman

Can't stop me now

2010-10-26T10:09:00.000+02:00

It's below -0 c. in the mornings, mega windchill every day, but it's started to blow. Finally.

Last week I was rocking hard together with Nikke; 45 knts feeling my 4.0, 16 knts taking som good hits on my worn out 5, full on Nothernly insanity on the megaflats going perfect power 4.8. Man last week had it all, and I got to hang with all of the guys too - or, at least all of those who're still at home. The best sesh was for sure the one on Friday:

Strong wind from the North with a hint of West on the angle, which means dead flat water, big gusts and super fast speed for your moves. I sailed with Johann again, finally landing a dry and perfectly smooth regular stance Kono, in front of him. I had all the speed I needed, solid duck, height on the flight with good rotation, followed by a clean landing, just barely dragging th butt on touchdown. Most important though: Landing was achieved with a locked clew-first position, loosing no force to take the move all the way. Now I want it with straight legs.

Later that same day I took one more run, getting super sick Doubles on the Punetas and working out the finish on my Air-Funnels for real. I used to land body facing forward and sail draggin behind, but when I really focussed on getting it right I managed to get the feel for landing toeside, facing the sail, keeping the pressure to maintain stability on the landing. Most attempts weren't real AirFunnels though, but after I worked out the landing part I had one more try; the duck carve and pop were just timed so well and threw me into a perfect rotation, landing just like I'd practiced it, spinning it out slide style to finish for a 5.

Can't wait for tomorrow, if the forecast sticks I'll be so wasted come Monday.

Keep it real.

Håkman

Gaastra Echo Limited Edition (LE), the review

2010-10-16T10:30:00.002+02:00

I've been on Gaastra since I started surfing, rockin the various Manic models through the years; but it wasn't until last year that I found the sail that would change everything. Spending the -09 season on Bonaire, seeing Kiri on his 5.2 in all conditions - always in control ducking the sail like it was nothing - got me hooked. He was on my case about it for a while before I was convined though, but when we swapped sails I just lost it. I'd been working on Switch Chachoos for so long without getting full control for the sail, but when I got on his 5.2 I just had to try once and the sail was right there all the way through the move. This is the most important quality on the Echo: It makes moves easier. And who wouldn't want that?

35 knots? Easy peasy! Echo LE 4.4

When I came back home I immidiately set out to get a line of Limiteds, but it wasn't an easy task. I e-mailed every Gaastra distibutor in Europe, as there weren't any in Sweden due to... It puzzles me. During the following 2 weeks I got replies from about 20 different shops who didn't have any Echos at all. The best sail couldn't be found. This turned out to be a stroke of luck though, as I got another reply a few days later; Göran Nyman from Windparadise in Barcelona wrote - we have the sails you want, in the colors you requested. Göran was Swedish too, a huge surprise to say the least. Anyway, I got my first pair (5.2, 4.8), rocked them all winter in the Philippines and learnt shitloads of new moves.

This brings us up to date, and as I'm writing this I've recieved my new set of Limited -10s, tested them twice and got them striped up with numbers just yesterday. The difference from last year is that I got my hands on the all elusive mini sizes: 4.4 and 4.0. Actually, this process goes as far back as before summer; Göran helped a lot hooking me up with Gaastra, who made me a fresh custom set of sails. A little more than 3 months after the deal went down I got to riding on a 4 sail line, which is a huge advantage. Now I can stay in control even on the days when it's bombing.

Go for the sky. Echo LE 4.8

Okey, enough stories, let's talk tech.

The -10 LE is totally similar to the -09. Makes much sense, as if it ain't broke don't fix it, right? There are some minor cm:s difference in boom and luff, but apart from that the feeling is that same sweet mix of power and control all packed into a 4 batten super light weight format. The model is advertised as a sail that you can use one size smaller, which is true. But it can handle a ton of wind too, if you want it to. There's a genuine harmony in the whole sail, with a flat top and pin-point precise power in the belly that sits at the front close to the mast. When powered up - even if it's gusty - the power never travels, but stays focused on the harness lines. Due to these qualities I feel that I can always go one size bigger than I would on any other sail, which is great for doing sicker tricks with more hang-time. All of the above makes for a steady balance entering moves and total neutrality during the spin, but also a readiness to power up for a double rotation or whatever you can put your mind to.

Time above the water is what counts. Echo LE 4.8

It's possible to rig the Echo super flat or with a good profile - I've found the latter to be the best setting. That means good downhaul, but not too much, and enough outhaul to keep it nice and tight at the clew. The sail will stay on the boom a bit, but there will be a fuller feel to it, and most importantly: It's going to get so powered when ducking. This brings us to the most important technical feature which also happens to be the reason why this sail is the bomb for new school freestyle:

If you want to do Konos, Burners or Air Funnels, there is no comparison. The Limited Echo is made for ducking. It slices into the wind easily, keeps the power and is real controllable when back-winded. The top is flat, which gives good balance and control, as the power will stay close to you in the pocket by the mast, focused on the harness lines. In addition the foot is cut high to make for easy getting under the sail. To do well in the ducking moves you need to be able to duck (obviously), steer while back-winded, and pop with a lot of power when and where you need it. The Echo has all of those qualities, so instead of struggling with getting the sail in front of you - you can spend your time deciding whether you want to go big or just ridiculous. Mark my words, you will go bigger on this sail than you've ever gone before.

Mid-duck, total control. Echo LE 4.8

In addition to the above I though I'd mention the fact that the Echo LE is extremely consequent sizewise. By this I mean that the feeling is the same throughout the whole line. I've heard guys riding other brands talking about how their 5.2:s feels too different from their 4.2:s, or in some cases even their 4.8:s. An unbalanced line like that would be hard to get used to, especially for freestyle, but with the Echo that's not an issue. My 5.2 is the same as my 4.4, with the exception that the 4.4 is really tiny.

To finish this off I want to point something out: I've ridden Gaastra sails (and tried all the other brands too for that matter) of different years for 4 seasons now, and every time I get struck by how the quality and feeling is so uniquely genuine. The -08 and -09 Manics were damn good, and the -06 Echo was great too, but the new Echo LE is nothing but the best. Hands down

So whatcha waiting for? I got mine, now get yours.

Erik Håkman, S-1988

Focus

2010-10-11T14:46:00.000+02:00

You gotta have it.

Håkman

30 minutes of freestyle + Sw Kono sequence pictures

2010-10-08T21:08:00.001+02:00

I sailed the shortest most intense session yesterday; doing my internship for school from 8 to 5, making it home by 6 and after a hectic preparation with equal parts rigging and running, I was ready to go at half past 6.

Hank was out, together with Emma, and I made my first run out towards him gradually getting more powered on my 4.8. I got close enough so he wouldn't miss it and threw something I've actually just learnt this week - the Forward loop!

I never gave it much attention before, but the day before the session in question I just got so tired of all the chop that I decided to use it. Took me about 10 half hearted tries before I got the feel for it. I had a hard time getting the rotation going upwind launching off of the chop, so managed to get the first one on the flat. I'll keep it short; it's an awesome move and I'll try to improve it as soon as I get some wind again.

I think I surprised him with the loop, but most of all it got me fired up. Second run was really close to getting the sail out of the water for the Burner, third run out was an incredibly clean Shaka considering the difficult chop/gust. The next 20 minutes were equally distributed between Double Punetas and Esliders, feels nice to finally get the hang on the second rotation with my Flare 88. I had them nailed with my bigger boards, but since I got the small one I had a pretty hard time getting it right. But since I got hang of the speed thing it's all changed, cause now they're back and better than ever - more speed equals more style!

I finished at 7, sailing back to shore in the intense darkness, over the pitch black but suspiciously calm water inside of the bay. Gotta admit that I was pretty quick to get out of the water. You don't want to mess with the F-bay monster...

Later,

Håkman

More sessions and pictures continued

2010-10-05T20:21:00.001+02:00

Here's more from that incredible Sunday:

Today we had another session with the same wind direction (S-E), even though it wasn't as good it was still a lot of fun. I was on 5.2 and got really good speed in my moves, landing a perfect planing among others a Double Puneta so close to shore that my fin was touching the floor. Sailing together with Johann - another new freestyler - and the other locals I was in good company, everyone was throwing different moves and pushing each other. Man I love this place...

Håkman

Awesome photo session with Fredrik! (intro Air-Funnel)

2010-10-04T23:25:00.002+02:00

Had a killer session yesterday, full on 4.8 and super flat, super gusty conditions. Perfect for nice air-moves. Check back tomorrow for more, but for now:

All pictures are courtesy of Fredrik at Kulingvarning.

Håkman

What's up with this off-shore?

2010-10-01T16:45:00.001+02:00

Sailing just a bit now, taking it on a day-to-day basis, pretty much just hoping for that killer fall wind to kick in; if it'll happen, that is.

We tried the island of Hisingen, like a half an hour drive from the Bay, where I got a few sessions with Johan, Kalle and Hank. I was powered up with my 5.2, which is a whole different ball game to sailing at home. The chop at the spot we sailed is like the choppiest place ever. It's not that tricky any more, but I remember when I tried going switch there last year - totally sketched out with one fot in each front strap hitting 2-3 fast, short chop at the same time... Anyways, I worked more on my Switch Konos and Air-Funnels, getting perfect ducks even though the chop was tricky. I recently started getting real slides in the first of above, landing dead flat with straight legs. It feels really good, and I think that I'll be able to translate those skills into my regular Konos too.

At the end of that sesh I had a perfectly balanced duck on switch, carved up-wind like for a Kono and guided the sail forwards at the same time as I got further and further up, popped off and hit the sickest mini-chop. It was tiny, but acted like a kicker. So as I had set the move up perfectly I had a 360+ Air-Funnel rotation, that I obviously crashed but it was so high and so fast that I just couldn't believe it.

Håkman

Straight outta Fiskebäck - New and improved

2010-09-23T22:33:00.001+02:00

Got some work done on the page now, and I feel like it's going the direction I want it to. Check out all the new pages, where you can hit my profile, see all my movies, the best pictures and some more great stuff. My man Erik made me this sick new banner too. That pic up there's just so good, and to think that it's from as far back as my first trip to Bonaire - 2007. Crazy...

Make sure that you do check out the Gallery, cause all the shots from my sesh with Erik are in and they are awesome.

Peace,

Håkman

F...ing fast or f...ing freestyle?

2010-09-22T10:20:00.004+02:00

Convinced by Ola I took a break from spinning and got on his I-sonic 80 (Slim-edition haha) and 6.2 RS-slalom. First run was OK, going unhooked frantically trying to stay in the minimal straps, exiting with a nice racejibe though. Second run was hooked in but not really pushing it, planing jibe once more. Before run three I got some pep-talk from the slalom guys; sheet in as much as possible and lock the sail down, take preassure off the mastfoot, throw yourself on the deepest downwinder possible. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. With a GPS strapped to my right arm I just could not not go for it. So first part was allright, a little bit bouncy on the chop but I got myself a long way upwind, so when the flat came along behind the Shitbay island I locked and loaded. I hit a lull too so I was feeling pretty confident - being on a 6.2 just doesn't provoke confidence if you've just got off your overpowered 4.8... Anyhow, naturally the lull had to end and when it did I was launched like a rocket, and it seemed like the board had no intention of slowing down whatsoever. Finally I couldn't take it any more and had to hook out, jibe planing once more and head back. I checked the GPS then I surfaced from a out of control but rather stylish crash-exit, and say 28 knots recorded. Felt pretty good, but what if I had just kept my cool and sheeted in for 10 seconds more?

When Ola got back - he'd been on my gear for a run - he made a classic statment: "It feels like there's soap underneath!"

In conclusion slalom is fun, fun and fucking scary.

So what'll it be? F... fast or f... freestyle? I'll let you be the the judge of that.

Håkman out.

More fat sessions and more sick pictures

2010-09-20T21:55:00.006+02:00

Wow, this week's been the best in a really long time. I got my Air-Funneling on so bad again yesterday, now with more control on the rotation and getting high pops, which goes for my sailing overall right now - really dailing in my strong wind sailing. My Burners get rotated but that's kinda it, so far at least. Working on those Konos still, so close to getting dry landing; some more practice and good wind should get me there.

More to come, stay tuned.

Håkman

More and more

2010-09-19T09:32:00.005+02:00

Had an incredible day yesterday, with loads of nice moves, finally rotating my Burners all the way - just quite not getting the sail up out of the water to finish. Ended the session with a monster Kono on regular, would've been totally planing out of it too, had I just anticipated the altitude of the flight.

Håkman

Echo LE 4.4 custom superextramegaawesome! (Photos)

2010-09-17T18:37:00.005+02:00

Rockin my brand new custom 4.4 Limited, in todays photo sesh, pic by Erik Andersson. Your average 30 knots, full on Southerly and flat but gusty inside. More to come, a review on the new sails (got the same one in 4.0 too), and, I got tons of pictures.

Also wanna give a big shoutout to Göran Nyman at Windsurfers Paradise in Barcelona, for hooking my up with these awesome sails. Get your Gaastra from him!

Peace

Håkman

Swedish Windsurfers Association, the freestyle tour website

2010-09-14T16:27:00.003+02:00

Get a load of this: SWF freestyle-cup/, the page by Mr. Hank dedicated to the Swedish Freestyle Tour. It's got some stats, scoring systems, some (a big hit for those who don't speak swedish) pictures, reports and other stuff you might like. So check it out.

Håkman

Shitbay, back-to-front

2010-09-10T10:45:00.004+02:00

Haven't had wind in 2 weeks, unbelievable. I started school again too, so I've been kept busy nonetheless, but yesterday and the day before that I finally got to train again.

One would think that with 2 weeks off it's just bound to be sick when the wind eventually returns, this was not the case. What we got was marginal winds on the direction with the least possibility of being good - East. I know from before that Shitbay might work bearably, so I tried and had a good time landing everything I know after school, together with Konstantin who's got a brand new set of gear. He gonna do good on it for sure, looks way better than before. It felt so good being back on the water again, I was all smiles after my 4 hour session was finished. The West Coast news caster running Kulingvarning.nu, Fredrik, came down to take my picture as well. Check it out on the link.

The morning after was still partly windy, so I tried again, finding some good gust inside the Shitbay lagoon. It's pretty flat, but so damn gusty that you might start out on a run feeling barely nothing in your sail, and then progressivly enter the power zone which might get you out of control overpowered. I got one of those this morning, and managed to time my duck for a regular Kono perfectly. Hangtime baby.

Later
Håkman

SWT Freestyle at Torhamn, results.

2010-08-30T22:46:00.001+02:00

This just in.

1. Niklas Stråhlén S-4444
2. Erik Håkman S-1988
3. Emil Håkansson S-62
4. Andreas Alm S-70
5. Ola Bjäreborn
6. Jakob Lindqvist S-1441
d7. Petter Jakobsson S-222
d7. Johan Karlsson
d7 Emmi Roosling
d10. Emma Johansson S-37
d10. Mattias Ottosson
d10 Henrik Hagen S-424

Håkman

SWT Freestyle at Torhamn

2010-08-26T20:18:00.006+02:00

Took me some time to edit since it's been fully nuking these past few days, but now I'll just proceed to give you what you need. I will not only give you a very exclusive videoblog, but also a full (well almost) video from one of my heats. How's that for an update huh?

So, here we go: We are currently in a 4 event tour, with 3 completed competitions, the last of which being the one in Torhamn. We got the confirmation that Torhamn would be the host just half a day before the actual event, so me, Johan and our other friend Erik packed ourselves into Johans' car at 6 a.m. and had a nice 5 hour drive down to the southernmost part of Sweden, where I'd never been before so it was a cool trip. When we arrived everyone had already arrived, so we were thrown into the water immediately. The weather was nice and warm, with powerful steady winds and really warm water. I can't remember the last time I sailed in conditions like this in Sweden. The spot is perfect for freestyle, and apparently has a consistent planing winds every day when the sun is out, during the summer.

I rigged my 5.2 for starters and was properly powered, as well as really focussed on going all out in the comp. We were sailing around for a while to warm up, and I was doing good, probably thanks to the previous week on Lyrön where everything was just a big mess of chop hitting you from all over. Anyways, I was feeling really safe in everything I tried, so when we headed out to the heat area I was feeling calm and collected.

After a quick announcement of the proceedings by race director Hank I was up for the first heat, going against Jakob S-1441 who was ripping. Nice Spocks and Willys, and he's the youngest in the line-up. Watch the heat in the vid below.

Erik Håkman S-1988, First heat of SWT Freestyle at Torhamn from Erik Håkman on Vimeo.

When the first heat was finished I was in a good vibe, and just kept going all through the ladder - when I reached the first final I was up against Nikke S-4444 and Emil S-62. I was totally focussed and ready to roll. I started out nicely with a Onehanded Flaka and a Double Flaka on the first run on port, and after that I landed pretty much everything I could think of except a regular stance Kono, but I didn't fall once. Some of the moves from this heat are featured in the Videoblog episode watchable below. When I finished I felt like it was in the bag, but unfortunately didn't have enough moves on port. I was happy though, just a little bit bummed that I didn't get a good gust to get that Kono. Nikke used his trademark Chachoos to take the win, and this was probably the best heat of the comp, as all three of us put on a good show.

After this I was done, but as the wind continued to push in we went for a kind of a Double elimination, where I went against Emil again; he landed Switch-Chachoos and Air-Flakas giving his definite best performance of the day. I got through and met Nikke again but didn't have all of that great focus and determination from the first final. My heat was OK, I went for three moves on the same run on the first port, not really getting the Cana Brava at the end. After that I had a few crashes and unlucky gusts going for my airmoves.

All in all I learnt a lot this event; how to keep my calm and play the heats right. It's a lot different from free-sailing, but I'm really starting to like it. With the right preparations and training I think it I'll be even more fun. Practice makes perfect, that's for sure.

To finish off I wanna thank the guys at Torhamn for a sick day, with a superb spot and just an overall fun time. Props to all the guys rocking awesome moves, all the locals representing their home spot, Johan for driving and letting me stop for beer three times on the way home, and last but certainly not least Erik for filming, taking pictures and coaching me from the sideline.

Now watch the vvvideoblog! It's true to the nature of the ones from the Philippines. Watch all of it, and yes, there is windsurfing in there. Just keep watching.

[Videoblog] The comp at Torhamn from Erik Håkman on Vimeo.

Out.
Håkman

Another swedish comp. (prologue)

2010-08-22T12:18:00.003+02:00

Visited Torhamn in the South of Sweden together with my friends Johan and Erik(mini) yesterday, and had one of the nicest days of windsurfing this summer. We got to do the third stop of the Swedish freestyle tour, which was so much fun, going against all the good freestylers in Sweden in warm, flat water (certainly not used to that...), with that sweet South coast sunshine. I think this is the best spot for freestyle in Sweden.

Check back later for a heat-video, some pictures, and a story to match!

[Movie] When we reminisce

2010-08-11T20:13:00.004+02:00

When we reminisce from Erik Håkman on Vimeo.

There's been to many words and too little media lately, so I thought I'd just change that and give you a few minutes from a couple of days on the island of Lyrön. I'll just end this by saying; if you can do your moves here, you can do it anywhere.

Håkman, out.

Pre-tell

2010-08-11T11:05:00.003+02:00

Got a few days lately, looks like there might be more to come. Might try a new spot today.

I have a few clips from the last two days, probably gonna make a small edit out of it, so stay tuned.

Håkman

Work(out)

2010-08-07T11:04:00.002+02:00

No more work for a while now, got back to the island just a while age. Tried the open sea yesterday, and the wind dropped as a was swimming out. Got one E-slider and one Flaka, which wasn't that much to cheer for. Seems like we might get a good day on Thuesday though, so just gotta keep the hope up for that.

Håkman

Sunday funday

2010-08-04T12:04:00.002+02:00

Working my brains out right now, so you'll have to put up with spontanious updates for a while on.

On Sunday my foot felt better, I couldn't move it very much, but I could get it in the strap no sweat, so I was off to another good day in the A-bay.

It begun kinda where I left off the previous day, with well powered 4.8 and sick ramps for Shakas, so I boosted some high ones for a while and then finally got secure on the trick again. Felt pretty sweet knowing that I'd land every time I tried, even going really high. I really started working hard on the Burner too, almost getting round so many times, but not quite clearing the nose at the apex of my spin. With some more pop I'm sure I'd land to claim, as the sail goes into the correct position every time.

At lunch Ellen joined me and we ripped it up together; she was planing around with my 4.8 and got her first real jumps on the perfect mini-ramps, which to me was a joyous sight. It's so much fun to surf with her. She even tried a few Volcanos, but I think that she might need some flatter water for that. The craziest thing though, was probably the fastest ride she got - she just kept accellerating and wouldn't stop, charging the whole bay she passed everyone. It was insane. At one point I wondered whether she'd be able to stop before crashing on the beach, but she managed fine.

Since this was a workday I had to go back to the beach for a few hours of rental management, but when I got a green light from my boss I was back out again. I mean, how sick is that? Sailing with your boss during worktime. Big ups to him. Anyhow, when I got out I was really surprised that I got to rock it out together with the dudes I used to watch when I started windsurfing: Mini(wonder if that still applies, nah well)John and Rambo. I remember how I wanted to learn to sail like them, and now I finally could, with some more trick up my sleve I might add. I showed some nice Konos on both sides, and some of my highest Shakas, boosting off of the mega ramps by the pier.

Best day in the A-bay so far this year, just gotta keep hoping for the wind to kick in soon enough.

Håkman out

Thank god it's Friday (not)

2010-08-01T09:10:00.003+02:00

Completely psyching myself out on Friday morning, going for the first good Askim session of the summer, I was out at 9 a.m with my 4.8 totally overpowered. The chop in there is so good for Shakas, it's like one giant playground of ramps - just take your pick. I was going big with my Switch Konos and Shakas warming up, but after 10 minutes I went for a regular Kono and lost my back foot in the air at the same time as I caught a wild gust, which slammed the board so insanely hard that my leg just stiffened up and started hurting like a mthfker. I was sure that I'd broken it, and waited for a short while before I tried to move my foot, which was possible, so I felt some relief. I had to get back to the beach though, and had a craaazy bodydrag all the way in, just being so powered up that the board was planing with my getting towed behind.

I barely made it onto the beach, threw my stuff on the grass and went inside the surfschool (where I still work this year) to get some rest. Working all day long renting out gear to people who wanted to sail a perfect A-bay wasn't easy since I could barely walk, but even more so cause everyone seemed to have such a good day.

Later on the leg started feeling better, and I got my hope back for a sweet Saturday. Just glad I didn't do any permanent damage.

Håkman

The island where the wind blows

2010-07-27T09:31:00.003+02:00

This is a full week recap, from my 6 day vacation on Lyrön - the island further up on the west coast, where the wind never goes away. Here goes day one (the rest will follow later on).

This Sunday was THE best day of the year; I had just gotten up to the island the day before, anxiously anticipating the awesome forecast, though with reasonable doubt. The forecasts this year haven't been accurate even a bit. I quickly learnt that this wasn't an exception, but instead of working against me it went in my favor. I woke up at 5.30 a.m just so stoked to get on my 5.2 with some decent power, and hearing the wind rustle the trees I could tell that power was guaranteed. Got my breakfast down, threw all my stuff on the dock down in the harbor, but had the feeling that the wind was stronger then I had expected. I though: What the heck, let's go for 4.8 and see what happens (the thing is that once I get out there, it's gonna take me about half an hour to get back in and then get out again. The thing is, that sailing here takes a lot of commitment, cause going out you need to be prepared to put in the extra hour or two. I was up for it, believe me. I packed a plastic bag full of food and water, duck-taped it to the nose of my board and went for the 10 minute swim out from the small harbor, that just happened to be jam packed with jellyfish. Big nasty yellow/red jellyfish, stinging like motherfuckers. I had prepared for this too, by sealing my gaps between suit and shoe with duck-tape.

When I finally got to my spot between a neighboring island and the mainland, I dropped my bag off at a dock on the mainland and got to work.

First run: On port, Shaka followed by a Kono, going starboard with huge Sw-Kono 180 right into another nice Shaka on port. Good start and it just got better. 4.8, full power, and I was sailing like never before. The air I got was totally different from anything I had gotten before, over rotating Sw-Konos fully standing, flying full air-360 Konos, crashing left and right on my Culo and Burner-attempts. I'm really starting to get comfortable in strong winds now, especially with the ducking moves. Trying Burners I got freaking close to landing in the right position, starting with an upwind carve, getting a fast sail rotation, but just barely not getting enough height to get the whole board spin. I tried some One-handed Burners too, and seemed to get the sail right every time. This is a really nice move, gotta land it soon.

I was all over the place, mostly just trying to go a big and far as possible on everthing, crashing loads and loads. After about 4 solid hours the wind died down a bit and I docked my shit at the harbor overlooking the arena to eat some digestive and bananas.

When I jumped in superman style from the dock, I wasn't that powered any more, but decided to make the best of a bad situation; taking some practice heats against myself I got comfortable with landing my 3-4 basic moves on each side over a 5 minute interval, regular on one side and switch on the other. When I just couldn't stand up any more I went back to my island to rest. That leaves us with some 7 strong hours of radical sailing. The hardest part of all is entering the laguna where my dock is situated cause the wind's always blocked, and it's always so funny to see how far inside you can get without having to swim.

After a nice lunch and an hour of sleep I swam out yet again and had the best afternoon-to-night session of my life. The wind was even stronger that it had been during the morning, and I was so over powered on my 4.8. The chop for Shakas was perfect and I got some mean hang time. But, the best of all was when I started landing my previously over rotated Sw-Konos, getting big sliding 360s. I kept on sailing and sailing all the way into the sunset, enjoying the beautiful scenery and the giant waves from the big boats passing through, when I finally decided to call it quits and got back home, I had been out for 4 hours straight. With a day of 11 hours total (TimeOnWater record baby!) I was totally wasted, feeling slightly dizzy and so damn satisfied. I've had many good days windsurfing so far, but this one goes top 5, easily.

To end things me and my sister had a nice barbeque, and she told me that she'd been watching my train through a pair of binoculars, sitting on top of the highest cliff on the island. She said that my Konos look like in the movies. Haha.

Peace.

Håkman

(20 000 visitors, HOLLA!)

Early is safe?

2010-07-15T10:23:00.003+02:00

Tried this twice times this week already, the first day being a major fail; waking up at 4 am. realizing that the forecast was totally miscalculated. Today I got it done right though, waking up at about 5, eatin, riding down to the beach. When I got there it looked kinda crazy with a totally off to cross-off wind, which mainly never works. I waited and felt the wind picking up, and finally decided to go for 4.8. It was so on.

When I got out I was overpowered with pretty solid wind - really unusual for the apparent wind direction - and stomped down a big Sw Kono on the first run. It was kinda flat everywhere but going through the channel on the outside the best Shaka chop I've ever seen were just pushing in. I landed a perfect one, and threw an out of control Kono to follow, which would've been landed clean if it wasn't for that damn nose banging into the water too hard.

Later on MiniCalle came out, rocking as usual; with a nice E-slider and a Flaka in the bag he was still dry. Being inspired by all the ducking that was going on he even got to land his first Funnel, and it was nice! When he gets his new Echo LE sails he'll be taking the other guys to school in no time.

Then it died and all the guys who had rigged got wet when it started to rain.

Claim or fail?

Håkman

Doin' work

2010-07-09T09:43:00.002+02:00

Worked some more on my new moves this week, even though the wind's just incredibly shitty right now; might be the worst summer since I started windsurfing, 4 years ago. Nevertheless, the Culos are progressing slightly every time, and now I can rotate the board almost all the way round. It really helps being powered up to get the proper pop for learning these kind of moves, but I've just tried in super light winds, with the exception of one hour of 4.8 that really helped a lot. Furthermore I've been struggling with the regular Konos, as I'm constantly losing my front strap from landing too hard. I think that I've found the key though, so let's just hope for some more opportunities to practice.

On another note: The Air-Funnel is back in the bag again, and it feels just awesome. It's definitely my favorite move right now.

See ya,
Håkman

A few sessions more

2010-07-02T08:26:00.002+02:00

Been sailing a few times recently, not that much unfortunately, just barely enough to be happy.

As far back as I can remember I'd say that midsummer was the first of these last days I didn't record, so in short I was in the hood - in the water - waiting like 7 hours for decent wind, planing now and then. Not to exciting, just started work on the Culo, getting some good sail rotations but not getting the board to spin. Went down again around 10 pm. when the wind was blowing again and went 5.2 for an hour, too choppy to get anything worthwhile. Got to sail with Calle though, big and small, so it was a nice day, cause every day in the water is better than...

A few days after that me and Cal did some lightwind stuff, and two gusts came in. I got my two lightwind switch moves, sailed back-to-back for a while and just chilled.

Two days ago we sailed some better, but not close to good 5.2, and I continued my work on the Culo and the Burner. No board rotations yet, but from what I can feel, and what Johan and Calle saw, I just need more power to get more height. Like with all the other moves, I believe that learning in light winds is the best thing you can do, cause the technique has to be perfect to land the move. On that note I flew around crashing left and right, meanwhile playing Claim-or-Fail with the miniman, which was a huge fail. Literally.

Håkman