Ceri Williams: the world of windsurfing owes him a lot | Photo: IWA

Ceri Williams, the legendary executive secretary of the International Windsurfing Association (IWA), passed away after a courageous battle against a sudden illness.

He was one of the most respected organizers and event directors in the world of windsurfing.

Despite his low profile, Williams was a key personality in the development of the sport in the past decades.

He was involved in the growth of several windsurfing classes, including Formula Windsurfing, IFCA, and Techno 293.

Ceri Williams was the engine behind dozens of highly successful windsurfing competitions and one of the most influential people behind Olympic windsurfing.

With an infectious smile, unfailing work ethic, and an enthusiastic will to help sailors and improve the visibility of the sport, the man from Portsmouth will be deeply missed.

Ceri Williams: a tireless windsurfing promoter | Photo: RS:X

A Tireless Windsurfing Promoter

As someone put it, Ceri Williams was one of windsurfing's "good guys."

He was an ambassador and someone with a long-term vision and a selfless attitude. Ceri had a deep knowledge of the sport and a broad range of contacts.

In the past months, he supported the development of the iQFoil, the new Olympic windsurfing equipment.

"Ceri will be remembered by countless organizers for his endless energy at the hundreds of events he shaped and attended," the IWA states.

"He never took the praise - he was a true gentleman and a great friend. He will be remembered with great affection by the windsurfing community and organizations worldwide."

Ceri Williams is survived by his wife, Teri, and his sons Aaron, Scott, and former PWA World Tour campaigner Ross Williams.

"Rest easy now, Dad. You are free! Thank you for taking care of us all. You're my hero," expressed Ross.

Top Stories

It's official. The World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) ratified two new outstanding accomplishments in windsurfing and kiteboarding.

Professional surfers Kai Lenny and Jamie O'Brien embarked on a thrilling adventure when they set sail aboard the high-performance USA SailGP F50 foiling catamaran.

Planing is one of the most exciting skills you can master while windsurfing. It usually separates beginners from intermediate and advanced sailors. But what is the minimum wind speed to get flying over water?

Imagine gliding across a frozen lake, your sail catching the wind, and skis slicing through the ice and snow. Meet the sport that blends the thrill of windsurfing with the crisp, cold beauty of winter landscapes.