Speed surfing: Dunkerbeck Speed Challenge 2026 starts with the "First Edition"

The Dunkerbeck Speed Challenge 2026 is underway. This year's virtual speed competition is once again aimed at windsurfers, wingfoilers and foilers worldwide. The challenge runs over three defined time periods and evaluates the results according to age groups.

• 1 April - 31 May: First Edition - Kick off
• 1 July - 31 August: Summer Edition - The Charge
• 1 October - 30 November: The Third - Final Action

The format remains unchanged from previous years as it has proven its worth. The rankings are continuously updated and incentivise repeat attempts. The competition sees itself as a Virtual Global Tour that aims to get athletes back on the water. Participation only requires your own equipment, a GPS device for recording and suitable local conditions. The concept dispenses with centralised venues and allows all athletes to upload their sessions at their home spots.

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Each section offers new opportunities to improve your personal best time or enter the rankings for the first time. The average speed over 250 metres is taken into account. The system allows multiple participations within each edition. Athletes can upload their sessions as often as they like and benefit from different weather conditions over the months. The division into three time windows takes into account regional differences in wind and water conditions. While early summer offers optimal conditions in some regions, other spots only reach their best conditions in autumn.

Free participation without hurdles

Registration takes place online and is free of charge. Participants register on the official website and upload their GPS tracks after each session. The system accepts data from common GPS devices and smartphone apps. The organisers have deliberately decided not to charge entry fees in order to make participation possible for all interested parties. This low entry threshold distinguishes the Challenge from traditional competitions with fixed dates and travel expenses. Athletes can take part in their trials at their home spots and save on travelling and accommodation costs. The flexible scheduling allows working people and families to integrate the Challenge into their everyday lives. The format therefore reaches a much broader target group than traditional events. The Virtual Global Tour brings a competitive character to local training programmes and connects athletes across continents through common goals and comparable performance data.

Registration and further information at gps-speedsurfing.com