The Tiree Wave Classic is the UK's premier windsurfing competition. Run in recent years by Glasgow-based events company Dialogue Marketing headed up by Gordon Ritchie, it takes place each October on the Isle of Tiree on the west coast of Scotland.
It was set up in 1986 and was part of the PWA Professional Windsurfing World Tour in 2007. In recent years the event has reverted back to national level, and is now part of the British Wavesailing Association UK Tour.[1] The event has dedicated worldwide TV coverage and attracts hundreds of visitors to the island each year, making the Classic a significant annual economic driver for the island.[2]
At the six-day event, competitors in four categories (Professionals, Amateurs, Masters and Ladies) take part in wave sailing competition that can, if wind and swell conditions permit, result in some of the best windsurfing action the UK has to offer[3][4]
Tiree is the most westerly island of the Inner Hebrides and is perfectly situated for providing world-class windsurfing conditions. The island enjoys a mild climate has amongst the highest sunshine hours in Scotland, as well as high average wind speeds.[5] Exposed to the powerful North Atlantic swell, extreme winds and breathtaking white sandy beaches, Tiree offers a wide range of conditions within a beautiful setting, making the Tiree Wave Classic a unique addition to the UK windsurfing scene.