James Casey To Lead Pioneering Foiling Adventure in Madeira

The Naval Club of Funchal, in collaboration with the Madeira Promotion Bureau, will bring the world champion of Wing Foil, Australian SUNOVA rider James Casey, to the island in the first half of September 2024 to perform the first SUP & WING foil crossing between Porto Santo and Madeira Island. This event comes as Madeira also prepares for a new edition of the Madeira Island SUP Challenge on October 12 and 13, with a prize money of €3,000.

James Casey is currently the elite athlete with the most titles and world records in the Wing Foil discipline. He stands out as the world champion of the Hawaiian Foil races, having won the most prestigious event in the world, the crossing between the Hawaiian islands of Molokai and Oahu. Additionally, he holds the Guinness World Record for the longest male distance in Sup Foil Downwind, after covering 213 km in about 11 hours.

For the crossing from Porto Santo Island to Madeira Island, not just James Casey but also 6 x SUP race world champion and Danish Superstar Casper Steinfath, French waterman Fred Bonnef, Portuguese SUP foiler Tiago Campos, and local rider Diogo Neves will participate on SUP foil, while a local crew made of Ricardo Rodrigues, João Palhas, Luis Freitas, and either Duarte Gomes or Carlos Gonçalves will participate on Wing foil.

Madeira Island is recognized, especially by water sports experts worldwide, for its high-quality nautical spots and enormous potential for promoting and energizing various aquatic activities, often being compared to the Hawaii of Europe. This makes it an ideal location for promoting and developing activities like Wing Foil and SUP Foil.

The unique combination of crystal-clear waters, consistent winds, and the impressive geology of Madeira Island creates ideal conditions for foil sports. The steep cliffs and rugged coastline provide stunning landscapes and exciting challenges, while the ocean currents and regular swells ensure an unparalleled foil experience. These natural features not only enhance athletes’ performance but also offer a spectacular setting that transforms each foil session into an unforgettable adventure.

The crossing is scheduled between September 2 and 8, depending on sea and wind conditions. This event promises to highlight Madeira as an excellent destination for extreme sports, which have emerged in the region in recent years.

During his stay on Madeira Island, the world champion of Wing Foil, James Casey, will conduct two specialized clinics between September 6 and 9, providing participants the opportunity to improve their skills with one of the biggest names in the sport. This is only possible with the support of the Muñoz Trindade Ophthalmological Institute. While the crossing is not open for more participants, registrations are still open for the clinics. With low-cost flights available, it’s easy to make the trip to Madeira and take part in either clinic.

Clinic 1: Flatwater/Bumpywater SUP Paddle-Ups and Pump Technique
Clinic 2: Downwind Technique SUP/Wing (3/4 KM)

Registrations for the clinics are now open and can be made through the link below. Each clinic day costs €100, with the possibility to enroll in both days for €180. After August 30, the registration fee increases by €20.

Additionally, Madeira is gearing up for the Madeira Island SUP Challenge on October 12 and 13, offering a prize money of €3,000.

For more information on the Madeira Foiling Clinics on September 6 > 9.
Diogo Neves (atleta organizador) – 963 901 112
Duarte Pinto, Diretor Desportivo do CNF – 927 319 232
www.clubenavaldofunchal.com/madeira-foiling-clinics/

To register for the Madeira Island SUP Challenge on October 12 and 13
www.clubenavaldofunchal.com/madeirasupchallenge/inscricoes/

To plan your Foiling, Wing Foiling or SUP adventures in Madeira and Porto Santos:
www.VisitMadeira.com
www.MadeiraOceanTrails.com

For your Wing Foil news, go to:
www.TotalWING.com