FSRL Expression Session Rules and Format

Expression Session brought to you by Armstrong Foils

The Expression Session will consist of three categories, straps, strapless and foil assist. Heat duration will be decided once registration is complete. We will have the Seadoos to whip competitors into waves. Each rider will get unlimited whips and can paddle into waves anytime during the heat. Heats will be judged by a 3 judge panel that will be looking to award progressive and innovative foil maneuvers.

Strapped Riders will be judged on “Best Trick”.

Strapless Riders will be judge on “Best Wave”.

Rules:

• Leashes must be worn while in the water. If it is removed to work way on foot, it must be put back on when entering water.
• No foil assists, efoil or any motors of any type are permitted on the board or mast during the Expression Session except for the Foil Assist Heats. Only the authorized tows by event staff are permitted.
• Tricks/Waves must be in line of site of the judges and inside Action Box to be scored.
• Riders must keep a 6′ distance from other riders at all times while riding on board or foil.
• Helmets are highly encouraged.

Structure:

• 20 minute 5 person heats (time and heat size will vary depending of number of entrants)
• Riders must line up near Buoy to get in line for you whip. Riders will be picked up in the order they arrive near the buoy.  Seadoo drivers will not circle for waves. You will get a chip up and then you are responsible for pumping or gliding to waves. 
• Top Rider from each Heat will move to the Final.

Strapped Riding:

• Scoring is based on the Best Single Maneuver of the heat. Winner of each heat goes to Final.
• Top 3 podium cash prizes

Strapless Riding:

• Scoring based on Best Single Wave of the heat. Winner of each heat goes to Final.
• Top 3 podium cash prizes

Judging Criteria

Wave Selection:

• Consideration of wave size, shape, and quality.
• Maneuverability:
• Execution of turns, carves, and aerial maneuvers with precision.
• Creativity and style in navigating the wave.

Flow:

• Seamless transitions between maneuvers.
• Maintaining fluidity during the ride.

Control and Stability:

• Recovery from challenging situations or unexpected changes in wave conditions.

Aerial Tricks:

• Quality and height of aerial maneuvers.
• Innovation and difficulty of tricks performed in the air.

Variety:

• Display of a diverse range of maneuvers and skills.
• Avoidance of repetition to showcase versatility.

Speed and Power:

• Utilization of speed for dynamic and powerful maneuvers.
• Ability to generate speed using the foil and adapt to different wave conditions.

Wave Choice:

• Ability to maximize the potential of the wave.

Judges’ Overall Impression:

• Subjective evaluation of the surfer’s overall performance.
• Consideration of style, commitment, and the “wow” factor.

Risk-Taking:

• Willingness to take calculated risks in executing maneuvers.
• Pushing the boundaries of skill and technique.

Technical Difficulty:

• Evaluation of the complexity and technical difficulty of maneuvers.