04/06/2024

FARREL O’SHEA 1963-2024

I was shocked to hear about the tragic news that windsurfing legend Farrel O’Shea sadly passed away while at a speed event in France on Sunday 2nd June.

Farrel O’Shea was one of the pioneers of British wave sailing back in the 80’s and was known for his missions to Fuerteventura and Maui, Hawaii.

Alongside his love of the waves, his true passion eventually became speed sailing – entering his first event in Weymouth back in 1984. In 2013 he won the prestigious title of UKWA Windsurfer of the Year in recognition of his achievements in the speed world. Farrel spent many seasons chasing his goal to break the 50 knots barrier on the speed canal in Lüderitz, Namibia, and he eventually succeeded in achieving his goal, while also breaking the British Record with a blistering run of 51.2 knots back in 2015!
That’s nearly 60mph.
On a toothpick with a sail. btw.

Farrel was also a very successful businessman and set up O’Shea, his own clothing, SUP and surf brand. I own and surf, badly or intermediately, on and O’Shea board.

Beyond his personal achievements, Farrell O’Shea was a mentor and sponsor to many aspiring windsurfers. He generously shared his knowledge and profound words over a cup of tea with friends and fellow watersports enthusiasts. Farrel always had time for people, had an incredible dry sense of humour and he helped and inspired so many riders both on and off the water.

Farrel was the crucial man behind the scenes in the beautiful village of Abersoch on the Llyn. As you may know, I hide, or lie low in Abersoch, as often as possible. Part of the Villages appeal was the surf and windsurfing community. Headed by Farrel. As a Mcr legal yuppie gobshite, I was firmly put in my place and reminded that there was a better mantra; Live to work, don’t work to live. To meet the inspiring Abersoch surf community in 1997 changed mine my families, all my good friends lives and continues to inspire.

I cannot imagine Abersoch and this area without Farrel.

RIP Farrel.