Born on April 23, 1963 in La Jolla, California, Robby Naish is one of the most famous windsurfers of all time, and one of the first athletes to achieve international renown in the sport. His career, marked by success and innovation, illustrates not only his pioneering role in windsurfing, but also his lasting influence on nautical culture. In this first part, we take a look back at the inspiring story of this windsurfing legend and the transformations he brought to the world of windsurfing.
First steps in windsurfing
Robby Naish, real name Robert Staunton Naish, grew up in a family where water sports were omnipresent. His father, Rick, instilled this love of the water in him from an early age. At the age of 11, he took up windsurfing, discovering the freedom and adrenalin that the sport could offer. His first experience on a board left an indelible impression on him, and he soon began to practice assiduously.
In 1976, at the age of 13, Robby distinguished himself by winning the World Championship title at his first Junior Championship in the Bahamas. This success attracted the attention of sponsors and the media, setting the stage for his professional career. His passion and dedication to the sport quickly propelled him into the limelight, preparing him to become one of windsurfing's most respected athletes. By using the first name "Robby", he establishes a more personal connection with his fans and windsurfing enthusiasts.
The golden age of windsurfing
The 1980s were a pivotal period for windsurfing, with an explosion in popularity worldwide. Robby Naish emerged as a leading figure in the sport. Boards of this era, often measuring between 3.50 and 4 meters in length and with widths of up to 80 cm, were bulkier, making them more stable. Sails, meanwhile, are generally made of Dacron for its durability and strength, and offer surface areas ranging from 4 to 6 square meters.
Although heavier than modern models, these sails enable sailing in the often difficult conditions imposed by competitions. Robby skilfully adapts to these technical constraints and uses his strategic intelligence to maximize his efficiency on the water: a sailing style characterized by exceptional fluidity and power.
During this period, he distinguished himself with several emblematic figures that have become his trademark. These included Forward Loop is one of the most impressive: the rider performs a forward rotation in mid-jump, combining speed and control to achieve a fluid, spectacular transition. Another trick old schoo l emblematic of Robby, the Table Top this maneuver consists of placing the board upside down, with the fin pointing skywards, while executing a jump. During this maneuver, he twists his body, creating a dynamic and impressive silhouette in the air.
Renowned competitions and iconic titles
Robby makes a name for himself in the wave category at World Cup competitions, an internationally renowned circuit that brings together the world's best riders. One of the most emblematic events in this series is the Maui World Cup, held on the legendary beaches of this island in the Hawaiian archipelago. The spot is renowned for its powerful waves and constant winds, providing the perfect playground for competitors. Robby is proving himself to be an outstanding competitor, adapting to changing conditions and demonstrating unrivalled technical mastery.
During these competitions, he pitted himself against other windsurfing legends such as Björn Dunkerbeck, one of his most formidable rivals. Their rivalry has helped to raise the level of competition in windsurfing, each bringing a distinct style and technical skill to the discipline.
Robby Naish's performances earned him back-to-back world titles, including 24 world championships in various categories. These victories cemented his reputation as a champion and propelled him to legendary status in windsurfing circles. He became not only an athlete, but also an ambassador for the sport, inspiring generations of windsurfers around the world with his commitment, charisma and technical innovations.
The rise of a family business
In the '70s, Robby's father Rick Naish began building custom sailboards. Convinced that it was possible to improve on the performance of the original polyethylene Windsurfer, he began creating boards not only for himself, but also for his two sons, Robby and Randy. His passion soon attracted the attention of his friends, prompting him to produce additional models.
In 1979, the company took on a new dimension when Rick opened a small store in Kailua, devoting himself entirely to selling custom boards. The following year, he collaborated with Mistral, contributing to the design of the Naish Mistral board. This career change was marked by his decision to leave his teaching position to devote himself to manufacturing full-time, under the Naish Hawaii label. The family business is structured around Robby's mother Carol, who manages the commercial aspects, while Rick concentrates on design and production: a family dynamic that creates a stimulating working environment for Robby.
A vision of innovation
With the transition from the 80s to the 90s, windsurfing is rapidly evolving thanks to technological advances. Robby, always on the lookout for innovations, plays a key role in this transition. New materials, such as carbon, Mylar and Kevlar, made it possible to design boards that were lighter and stiffer.
Competitions are also diversifying, with the introduction of new formats focusing on freestyle and slalom. Robby, with his ability to adapt, continues to shine in these new disciplines. His strategic approach and rigorous training keep him competitive with a new generation of riders.
In 1995, he broadened the horizons of the family business by setting up Naish Sails Hawaii, a windsurfing sailmaker based in Maui: an initiative that enabled him to control the design and quality of his equipment. This new chapter is opened in partnership with industry figures such as Don Montague and Pete Cabrinha.
Over the years, the company has evolved, integrating the customs business and diversifying into related disciplines such as kitesurfing, stand-up paddle, foil and wingfoil. This gradual expansion transformed Robby Naish into a key player in the board sports industry, attracting riders from all over the world.
An ambassador of nautical culture
Conscious of ecological issues, Robby Naish integrates sustainable practices into the design of his products. By developing boards and sails made from recyclable materials, he strives to reduce his company's carbon footprint. Innovations such as the use of biodegradable resins and more efficient manufacturing techniques testify to this commitment.
Alongside his business, Robby takes on the role of mentor and educator. He is active in beach clean-up initiatives, such as the campaigns organized by the Surfrider Foundation during which he mobilizes volunteers to restore coastal environments. He has also been involved in coral preservation projects in Maui, raising awareness in the local community of the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. Robby shares his knowledge at international conferences and events, addressing topics ranging from safety at sea to technical innovation in windsurfing.
One of the highlights of his career took place on August 22, 2019, when he was inducted into the Hawaii Waterman Hall of Fame at the famous Outrigger Canoe Club in Waikiki. Each year, a group of athletes is selected by their peers for their contributions to ocean sports, and thus inducted into the Hawaii Waterman Hall of Fame. Robby Naish has joined an elite group of watermen, alongside such legends as Duke Kahanamoku, Eddie Aikau, Rabbit Kekai and Brian Keaulana.
As an ambassador of nautical culture, Robby Naish embodies an active, environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Through his heritage old school of windsurfing and his commitment to innovation, he continues to inspire those who aspire to a world where the pleasure of board sports goes hand in hand with the preservation of our planet. In the next section, we explore his contributions to the development of another board sport: kitesurfing.
