ABOUT THE EVENT
ABOUT ARUBA HI-WINDS
It was the year 1986. One Sunday afternoon, two friends were having some fun on the water with the wind, the waves and their windsurf equipment.
After their windsurf session of the day, Anthony Blok and Ruben Croes sat together and decided to go try and put Aruba on the water-sports map of the world. And Aruba Hi-Winds Pro-Am was born.
The 1st Aruba Hi-Winds was a success from day one. Many windsurf professionals joined in the competition. Big names like Björn Dunkerbeck , Robby Naish, Anders Bringdal, Stephan van den Berg, Jutta Müller, Britt Dunkerbeck and Natalie Lelièvre, just to name a few who have participated over the years. Talented amateurs, more than a few locals too, could race as well. First major sponsor was Peter Stuyvesant Travel.
For the last few decades, the Aruba Hi-Winds has been held at The Fisherman’s Huts, with kiteboard freestyle competition held at Boca Grandi. But in the beginning the competition was held at Eagle Beach. Bigger waves with gustier winds and close to the shoreline. Spectacular action guaranteed. A selection of professional champions even rounded the entire island on their boards in 1991 and 1992, with Björn Dunkerbeck setting a new record time year after year.
Over the years Aruba Hi-Winds has embraced other types of watersports, like kitesurfing, kitefoiling, paddleboarding (SUP), while even Mountain-bike competition has become an important part of the schedule. All this has made the Aruba Hi-Winds more attractive to different kinds of participants.
CORE VALUES
LOCAL & COMMUNITY
Establishing a feeling of community that only Hi-Winds is able to create. Using local talent in our event preparations.
COMPETITIVE & PROFESSIONAL
Creating professional, well-organised, and safe competitions for all of our participants – both beginner and pro.
INCLUSIVE & ACCESSABLE
As a free-to-attend event, we create an easy accessible space where everyone can have a great time with their friends and family.
FAQ
Aruba Hi-Winds is the premier windsurfing and kitesurfing event in the Caribbean, held annually on the island of Aruba. It attracts athletes and enthusiasts from around the world to compete and celebrate watersports.
Aruba Hi-Winds takes place from May 8th – May 13th at the Fisherman’s Huts, Aruba.
Absolutely! Aruba Hi-Winds is not just for competitors. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from live music to fun beach games. There is something for everyone at Aruba Hi-Winds.
We partner with local hotels to offer special rates for Hi-Winds attendees. Visit our Accommodation page for the best deals and recommendations on where to stay during the event.
Yes, we welcome volunteers! Being a volunteer at Aruba Hi-Winds is a fantastic way to contribute to the event’s success while gaining unique experiences. Message us via the Contact page to get in touch.
LAST YEAR'S EDITION
CONTACT
