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The prestigious freestyle fleet who have gathered here in Canada includes the likes of Ricardo Campello (JP, Neil Pryde), Nik Baker (Mistral, North), John Skye (F2, Arrows), Kauli Seadi (Naish boards, Naish sails), Web Pedrick (North Sails, AHD) and Matt Pritchard (AHD, Gaastra).

It was registration day today and an opportunity for sailors to check out the island, tune their equipment and settle into the relaxed pace of life here on the islands.

Most of the sailors flew into the islands yesterday and initial impressions were definitely favorable. The Madeleine¹s comprise of four main islands, which are linked together by long thin sand dunes. Conditions can vary from side onshore wave sailing to flat water blasting in the islands shallow lagoons. The area is well known for its fresh and invigorating winds, which along with its 300km of pristine beaches combine to make it a windsurfers and water sports paradise. The wind today has been blowing around 25 knots and the forecast is excellent for the next few days.

Matt Pritchard (AHD, Gaastra)

The Islands kind of reminds me of the area around Boston at King of The Cape! Its sandy with grassy dunes and there is a chill in the air. The wind was screaming today. I have my fingers crossed for wind the whole week.

Rich Foster (Fanatic, Naish)

Its beautiful here! It kind of looks a bit like the Scottish Hebrides but a bit more developed. The people have been really friendly and the whole feel here is very relaxed. The wind is blowing so it looks like we are set for a killer week.

The race for the 2002 PWA Freestyle title is currently a battle between Ricardo Campello, John Skye and Nik Baker. Campello is leading in the rankings but could be closed down if he fails to make the podium here in Canada. Skippers meeting is scheduled for 8.30am tomorrow where sailors will be informed of the chosen location and the first possible start.