How to Do a Helicopter Tack on a Windsurf Board

This is a simple windsurfing tack accomplished by crossing the nose through the headwind and spinning your rig around to find your new boom.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Life Vests
• Wet Suits
• Windsurf Boards
• Windsurf Rigs

1. Windsurf on a windward (upwind) reach. You don't need a lot of speed for this tack.

2. Carve the board windward, passing the nose through the direct headwind.

3. Lean the rig forward and down, keeping your feet well centered over the board to keep yourself from falling as the board loses its momentum.

4. Push the clew out through the wind with your back hand. As it passes through the direct headwind, let go with your back hand and allow the wind to finish the work for you. Hold the mast with your front hand.

5. Turn your feet and body to face your new tack.

6. Grab your new boom, still keeping your weight forward over the unstable board.

7. Power-up and sail onto your new tack.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to lean too far forward when leaning your rig forward. Use only your front hand on the mast to do this.
• Do not release the rig until after your nose has crossed the direct headwind.
• Wear a life vest whenever windsurfing.
• Windsurfing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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