Three massive storms beyond wind force 10, tough duels man vs. man vs. nature, and the entire planet as a stage: Red Bull Storm Chase 2012 gives 10 of the world’s best windsurfers the ride of their lives. The most challenging windsurfing contest of all time is set to find the champion in storm surfing. Anybody is invited to suggest favourite competition grounds on www.redbullstormchase.com. Amateurs and pros alike can also register to take part – if they dare. In July, the community votes the 10 finalists for this fierce challenge against the elements. And from August to November, the global hunt for the storms is on.
Extremly high waves with overhanging crests, and large amounts of airborne spray reducing visibility: these are some of the characteristics of a 10 Beaufort storm. In 2006, Red Bull Storm Chase Europe created the concept of windsurfing in stormy conditions. In 2012, the event is going global and evolving into a competition. By hunting down 3 massive storms anywhere in the world, the 10 best and most courageous athletes will battle for the crown of the champion in extreme storm windsurfing. Because, as windsurfing legend Robby Naish put it: “Sailing in storm surf separates the men from the boys!”
The contest format of Red Bull Storm Chase is simple: 10 riders will compete in the first mission. 6 advance to the second mission. In the final mission, the top 4 riders will battle for victory. To guarantee raging conditions, Red Bull Storm Chase 2012 will be mobile to the max, with a 4-month holding period and just 48 hours to mobilise riders and global contest crew on-site before the storm strikes. The starting flag will drop as soon as the wind exceeds 10 Beaufort (54 knots / 100 kmh / 62 mph).
Red Bull Storm Chase 2012
May 1-May 31: Spot submission: www.redbullstormchase.com
May 1-June 28: Rider registration: www.redbullstormchase.com
July 2-July 15: Top 50 Online Voting for the 10 finalists
August 1-November 30: Contest, 3 storms
