Black day for sailing in Holland. At strand Horst, my local beach one kiter was killed in a huge windsqual and another guy is fighting for his life. Two sailors are missing and I don't know how many other kiters, windsurfers and sailors have gotten into trouble today. Gusts up till 60 knots were reported all over Holland. The wind wasn't predicted beforehand by most wind sites, so I fear many wouldn't have guessed what was coming at them when the dark clouds were nearing. Best of luck to all who were captured by the storm.

We were sailing at the Brace. I had some bad luck and broke my cross batten when I stuck my sail into the sand walking up to the speed piste. Even with the broken cross batten the sail felt good and balanced. I was building up speed each run but tore up my harness in my fourth run. The wind got better and better and I got crazy watching the conditions get epic and for sure good enough for world record speeds, not knowing what was taking place in other parts of our country. The Brace at least showed it's true potential and we only have to wait for the one magical day before all standing windsurf records will be shattered, but this day shows once again everything is relative. I feel sad.

Respect to Barry, Peter, Dylan, Robert, Tjitse, Willem-Jan, who all broke personal bests during todays short session. It's fair to say Peter and Barry set their topspeed when I was still in the running for topspeeds, so this is not an excuse for my loss. Well done guys!