Peter Volwater passed away at 40. He was not able to overcome a profound depression.
The windsurfing world is in a state of shock. Dutch superstar Peter Volwater (H-24) has joined the gallery of sports icons who left us too early.
Volwater was born on May 22, 1975, in Purmerend near Amsterdam, in the Netherlands.
He started windsurfing in the late 1980s and never stopped pursuing his dream of becoming a pro. He competed while studying and serving in the military for seven months.
Peter Volwater was the complete windsurfer. He showed enough talent to prevail in freestyle, wave, and slalom windsurfing.
In extreme weather conditions, the Dutch always stood out and excelled. The double forward was Volwater's favorite maneuver.
He won the Lancelin Ocean Classic six times (2004, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2012) and has consistently finished the PWA World Tour seasons in the top 10.
"Off the water, the story was no different, and with a massive smile and a drink in his hand, Pete led the charge in the bar just as much as on the water, always ready to have fun with the huge number of people who were lucky enough to have him as a friend," states the PWA World Tour.
"Despite Pete's massive energy for life, in June 2014, he began to suffer terribly from depression and began treatment for the condition. Sadly, after a long, hard battle, Pete was found dead in the early hours of this morning."
Peter Volwater was also a spectacular storyteller. His smile was contagious, and he was a passionate fan of Western Australia's notable windsurfing conditions. His favorite spot was Margaret River. Until his death, "Voltmeter" never stopped windsurfing.
"Today, we have another angel. A fellow windsurfer and friend for many years has passed away. You will be truly missed. Rest in peace, Peter Voltwater. You were one of my inspirations since I started windsurfing," expressed Ricardo Campello.
"Peter was one of the first guys I met when I first came on Tour, and despite being one of the most decorated guys in all the disciplines, he was still a nice, normal guy showing me around, giving tips, and just hanging out. Probably the guy with whom I shared the craziest, funniest, and most memorable stories. An absolute legend, an idol, a mentor, and a friend, Pete lived in 40 years what most of us would take 140," underlined Maciek Rutkowski.
"Pete was a solid, kind, and considerate person. When I was on Tour, I always loved being around Pete. He made you feel so comfortable and accepted and treated everyone with the same kindness. Really sad to hear about this. Praying for the comfort of his loved ones during this sad time," added Levi Siver.
"Pete, you were one of the kindest, happiest people I have ever known. We all spent the day here in Pozo, remembering the many, many fun times we shared. Still can't believe that you are gone. I hope you will rest in peace, my friend. You will be missed so much by everyone," expressed Robby Swift.