| When did you start windsurfing, where was it and why?
I started to windsurf at Fingal Sailing School in Malahide where I did a multi activity kids course. I actually disliked windsurfing on the course and for a long time I concentrated only on my sailing until eventually my older brother, Seán, persuaded me to give windsurfing another shot. From then on I was hooked.
What kit did you first ever sail on?
3.2 kids rig and a Hifly Motion with 200litres of volume!!
When you first began, what did you find most difficult?
In the beginning it was up hauling the sail. When I got my own kit it was rigging the thing. I always managed to mess it all up! Lucky for me, John Power, the owner of Fingal Sailing School showed me the ropes.
How long was it between first starting to sail & getting into the waves?
About four months after I began to take windsurfing up I went on a Peter Hart Master class course in Donegal for a week. Pete gave me great confidence to go out in the waves. He also gave me lots of tips on how to survive in the waves. After the week I knew wave sailing was made for me!
What's your favourite wave beach in Ireland and why?
I live in the Dublin City close to many beaches and my local spot is Dollymount. I have even taken my kit on my bike to Dollymount beach! However, my favourite beach of all is Magheroarty in Donegal. It’s in an unspoilt area and offers a great beach break. If you are sick of wave sailing you can polish up on your freestyle in the estuary at the back of the beach. It’s is also has one of Europe ’s largest sand dunes.
Tell us about the Irish competition set up - is there a youth fleet or do you just go in the main fleet?
The O’Neill Irish Wavesailing Champs has four rounds which this year takes place in Louisburg, Achill, Cork and Belmullet. All competitors compete together in the main fleet but juniors and youths are scored separately at the end. I hope to go to the UK to do some events in the near future. I’d love to make it to Tiree as I believe it had great conditions last year.
Tell us about any sponsorship you have and how that came about?
I approached Wind & Wave in Dublin with my portfolio. They saw my website pictures and the possibilities of publicity. My enthusiastic attitude was a major factor in securing the deal. They supply me with Starboard boards and Severne sails. I am also sponsored by G-sport fins. I am still looking for more sponsorship as windsurfing is an expensive sport.
What moves are you trying to learn this summer?
I have learned to vulcan and I am now starting to work on my spocks. I have also learned to forward loop this summer. My goal for this autumn is to learn how to Goiter, Backloop and Push loop (hell of a list Mikey!!).
Who is your windsurfing idol and why?
Kauli Seadi. I think he is the best overall windsurfer in Freestyle and Waves at the moment. He also makes windsurfing look like a fun sport. I am lucky enough to have met him twice and he is a real nice guy.
How does school/college fit in?
Last year I was lucky enough to be in Transition year which is sort of like a gap year. My school gave me permission to take time off when it was windy to go windsurfing - this was a great help!
You’ve obviously got quite good, quite quickly – what’s your tip?
Time on the water is the key.
Go see Mikey’s Website:
www.mikeywindsurfing.fotopic.net
Mikey is sponsored by:
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