PWA World Cup: Finn and foil separated again in 2024 - Finn slalom with beach start and obstacles
Tobias Frauen
· 12.01.2024
A step backwards as a step forwards: information has leaked out from the famous "well-informed circles" that Finn and Foils will once again be categorised as separate disciplines next season. In the Finn slalom, there will be an option to make the races more exciting by adding obstacles on the water or a flying start from the beach. Such elements already existed in the Super X discipline around 20 years ago.
The fins will therefore only be used at spots with a lot of wind, and many of the elements will be used depending on the local conditions. Sounds logical, a beach start in Pozo, for example, is difficult to imagine. Further information and the exact plans will be published in the near future.
The Super X is coming back - at least a little
On the other hand, foil slalom will once again be an independent discipline. This had already existed for a few years before the merger in 2020 - initially as a test to gain experience in the foil area. The basic idea behind the merger - foil in light winds and fins in stronger winds - quickly proved to be outdated, as fins were barely competitive in 30 knots and above and the majority of riders therefore opted for foils. Taty Frans and Jimmy Thieme in the men's race and Sarah-Quita Offringa and Jenna Gibson in the women's race were some of the few remaining Finn fans among the World Cuppers. In Pozo, Jordy Vonk was the only one to win an elimination with the Finn, but that remained a side note.
The Super-X discipline was part of the PWA World Tour from 2003 to 2007. During a race, the starters had to jump over rubber sausages and integrate certain manoeuvres. The first world champion was Kauli Seadi, followed by two wins for Kevin Pritchard and one for Antoine Albeau.
As soon as there is more information on the new formats for the 2024 season, we will of course let you know!
