Farrel O’Shea, a renowned windsurfing legend and successful businessman, passed away while walking up a beach in southern France at the age of 60. Originally from Wellington, Shropshire, O’Shea moved to the Gwynedd coast in the 1980s where he pioneered the sport and developed some technical moves. He also authored an influential guide to windsurfing and founded the O’Shea surfing and windsurfing brand based in Pwllheli. O’Shea held the British speed record for windsurfing, clocking in at 51.2 knots. He broke a new record for the discipline of wingfoil right before his final moments.
Water sports enthusiasts across the world paid tribute to O’Shea’s legacy, his wit and knowledge in speed windsurfing. Zara Davis, who holds world records in speed windsurfing, was with him when he passed away and says he died doing what he loved. “Farrel was my mentor, my inspiration and my friend,” added Davis. “He was generous to all with his time and unrivalled knowledge of speed windsurfing, a true legend of the sport.” O’Shea was known for his deep love of water sports and a cup of tea.
O’Shea’s legacy extended beyond the windsurfing community, as many remembered him as a kind, down to earth, and unassuming person. Tributes poured in on social media platforms from water sports centres and tour companies across the UK. SUP North Wales mentioned, “he’d always drop everything, put the kettle on, and sit down for a chat… a very sad loss for the world of windsurfing and stand up paddleboarding.” Knockburn Sports Loch in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, also took the time to honor him for being a fantastic, well-mannered, and considerate man.
The O’Shea Surf company issued a statement to commemorate their founder. “He was deeply loved by so many and will be forever in our hearts,” they wrote. O’Shea was one of “life’s good guys,” and his memory will be cherished by friends and family across the world
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