The next generation of windsurfers is getting prominent support: "Saltwater Kids" is a unique project for children and young people that combines enthusiasm for water sports with sustainability and team spirit. The patron is none other than windsurfing icon Björn Dunkerbeck, who is personally committed to helping the next generation. The soft launch of the programme took place as part of the Wings for Life World Run 2025 in Kiel, where Dunkerbeck took part for the fourth time - this time for the first time under the Saltwater Kids banner.
Official launch at the Fehmarn Surf Festival
The official presentation of the project will take place at the Fehmarn Surf Festival. There, young water sports fans will have the opportunity to meet Björn Dunkerbeck in person, get autographs and gain exclusive insights into the project. As a special highlight, festival visitors can win a place on a course with Dunkerbeck himself. This direct interaction with one of the most successful windsurfers of all time is likely to be an unforgettable experience for many young talents.
At the heart of Saltwater Kids are free taster courses in windsurfing and surfing. These are complemented by environmental education activities such as beach clean-ups to raise awareness of ocean conservation among participants right from the start. The courses are deliberately designed to be mobile and flexible, with a focus on small groups. This allows each child to receive individual attention and creates optimal learning conditions. The necessary equipment, such as boards and wetsuits, is provided by the Saltwater surf shop chain, so there are no financial barriers to participation.
Strong partners for a sustainable concept
The realisation of Saltwater Kids is made possible by a network of committed partners. PATRIK, known for its high-quality windsurfing boards, equips the courses with boards and rigs. The wetsuit specialist Soöruz provides the right clothing for the young participants. The initiators of Saltwater themselves contribute their extensive expertise, the necessary infrastructure and a great deal of passion to make the project a success. The organisation is carried out in collaboration with Love-My.Earth (LME), while surf magazine provides the media support both online and offline.
Saltwater Kids sees itself not just as a pure course programme, but as a holistic approach to getting the next generation excited about water sports and taking responsibility for the environment at the same time. By combining surfing lessons and environmental education, the children and young people should develop a deep connection to the ocean and understand it as their element. The project has the potential not only to promote new talent, but also to raise environmentally conscious water sports enthusiasts who see the protection of the oceans as a natural part of their sport.
- Registration from 14 May: www.love-my.earth (will only be activated on 14 May)
