IDEOLOGY
Since its introduction in 2006, the Kona One design class has grown at
an amazing pace throughout Europe and in the US.
The aim of Patrice Belbeoch (Designer) Tor Bakke (Class founder) and Joachim Larsson (Brand owner) was to re-introduce the adaptable concept that initially ignited the sport, and at the same time add in the best of today's technology and design features, within specific soft and user friendly parameters. The result is an early planing and easy maneuverable board - as challenging to advanced sailors as it is uncomplicated and forgiving to beginners and intermediate windsurfers.
In contrast to all other windsurfing classes, the Kona ONE ideology and spirit have been purified to enhance tactical sailing. Propulsion (pumping) is strictly prohibited and due to its unique versatility and superb light wind performance - no minimum wind limit is required - which always guarantee successful events for sponsors and organizers..
The class is divided into four weight groups plus the ladies and cadet divisions -and with different sail sizes carefully tuned to match the (weight) divisions, ensuring even probabilities for all.
It makes the Kona One class the first in the history of windsurfing to eliminate a "sweet spot" or weight advantage of any particular group. This is significantly adding to the excitement - as it allows all weight groups to compete at equal terms in big fleets, rather than having separate starts for each division. Likewise, it simplifies the organization and boost the recognition of the overall and true champion.
Easy accessibility and fair tactical sailing without pumping are key factors attracting windsurfers of all ages and sizes, and obviously the non physical factor makes the Kona the ideal alternative for women and youngsters. Additionally the board performs extremely well in sub planning conditions, and become surprisingly playful and responsive on the plane, thanks to the duck tail concept.
Although the history of the Kona Class only goes back a few years, it has been a very successful one with four very well attended International Championships. All events proved the class objectives right, attracting competitors from 10 to 60 or more years of age - from 40 kilos to super heavy weights - from professional PWA racers, ex Olympic and world champions to fresh youngsters, all in one class.
Remarkably the Kona Class got recognized by ISAF only in its 4th season as an established class, The philosophy, aim and focus have brought the Kona One Design concept from a notion to a renowned direction in modern windsurfing. A direction that is built on simplicity, fair tactical sailing and versatility.
National Kona Cups are organized in key countries around the world today, and communities with happy Kona sailors are quickly growing.
In contrast to technical and physical classes, the easy accessible Kona Class is being celebrated as "the open door" to windsurfing, and as such a potential feeder to all other classes.
All winds are Kona winds. |
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