Black is beautiful - professional Finian Maynard's black boards were on show for the first time at boot 2019. We asked what it's all about.
Finian, how did you come to set up your own board label, FMX Racing?
The decision was made last summer after the World Cup in Fuerteventura. I've been working on it for five months and now it's ready. The shapes from FMX Racing are my own, but of course I have help with the graphics and I also have a sales partner for Germany in Tom Eierding from TPE Sports (pictured above left, editor's note).
Your board range currently consists of two models - Hyperion and Invictus. Who should be interested in these boards?
As my background as a slalom worldcupper would suggest, the Invictus model is aimed at ambitious freerace and slalom pilots. However, it is important for me to emphasise that the boards are very easy to ride. Even in the World Cup, we pros need boards that are easy to control - you can't go fast on a slalom board. The prejudice that slalom boards are difficult to ride still persists. I would say that anyone who rides sporty freerace or race sails and has no problems with a 4-loop set-up on the outside can cope with it.
Will there be other models in the future, for example for freeriders?
In all likelihood, there will also be freeride boards from 2020, but at the moment I'm still focussing on my roots and building up the range bit by bit.
What is there to say about the construction of the boards?
Full carbon, without compromise! I make sure that the important areas are appropriately reinforced and durable.
Full carbon boards are also available from other series manufacturers in the slalom sector. What is so special about them?
Superficially, yes. It's not for me to pass judgement on the construction methods of other brands. I simply try to build my boards in the best possible way, which means: there is carbon between the foam core and the sandwich board, the outer shell is also made of full carbon. In the stand area, there are even two layers of carbon on both sides of the sandwich material - as far as I know, this is well above the usual standard.
Carbon is considered a price driver. How do you position your brand in this respect?
The Invictus 94 and 114 are priced at 2699 euros, the smaller sizes slightly lower, the 144 slightly higher at 2799 euros.
You can also ride the foil wave with the Hyperion model. Is it a combination board for windsurfing and foiling or a special foil board?
The Hyperion 184 is designed purely as a foil board. You could theoretically use it for formula windsurfing, but it is becoming apparent that special concepts are needed in competition.
Where can I currently buy your boards?
The easiest way is to contact TPE Sports ( www.tpesport.de ), my sales partner Tom Eierding can then refer you to shops where you can find what you are looking for.
Further information is also available at www.fmxracing.com
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
