Surf Foil World Tour – Pensacola’s Downwind Foil Showcase

The Surf Foil World Tour (SFT) Downwind Discipline in Pensacola, Florida, brought an exhilarating display of foiling mastery during Foiling Week. With 22 riders eager to test their skills in this exhibition-style event, the stage was set for an epic sunset ride along the gulf side.

Unlike traditional races, this event celebrated freedom of choice, allowing riders to select their preferred foiling setup—whether it be SUP, Wing, E-Foil, or Foil Assist. With the golden glow of the sun dipping below the horizon, the riders launched off a catamaran at Park West, setting up for a three-mile downwind adventure to the Hilton Hotel.

The Course & The Challenge

The course required riders to harness wind, waves, and sheer skill as they navigated the open waters from Park West to the Hilton Hotel. Downwind foiling is all about reading the ocean, linking swells, and maximizing glide, making it both a technical and exhilarating discipline.

With light winds and clean conditions, the group took off together, quickly spreading out as riders dialed into their respective rhythms. The goal wasn’t just speed—it was flow, strategy, and endurance.

A Fast & Furious Finish

Leading the charge was Gwen Le Tutour, who dominated the SUP Foil category, reaching the finish line in just 4 minutes and 33 seconds—an incredible time that had the crowd on the beach cheering. Not far behind, Phil Muller secured first place on the Wingfoil, showing impeccable technique and control.

Among the standout performances was Ava Segersten, who made history as the first female finisher on the Wingfoil, while Lance Okrasinski claimed the top spot in the Foil Drive category, demonstrating the potential of foil-assist technology. Rounding out the winners was Zhihong Ting, who took first in the youth division, proving that the next generation of foilers is ready to push the sport to new heights.

Downwind Foil Winners – Pensacola

🏆 SUP Foil Winner – Gwen Le Tutour (4:30:20 finish time)
🏆 Wingfoil Winner – Phil Muller (4:30:54 finish time)
🏆 First Female Wingfoil Finisher – Ava Segersten (4:32:20 finish time)
🏆 Foil Drive Winner – Lance Okrasinski (4:30:20 finish time)
🏆 Youth Division Winner – Zhihong Ting (4:51:59 finish time)

The SFT Downwind event was more than just a race—it was a celebration of foiling culture, where riders of all disciplines came together to enjoy the stoke, the conditions, and the camaraderie of the foiling community.

Next Stop: Cape Verde – SFT Surf Foil Discipline

With the Pensacola event in the books, all eyes now turn to Cape Verde, where the Surf Foil World Tour continues with the highly anticipated SFT Surf Foil Discipline competition from March 13-21, 2025.

Riders from across the globe will gather to showcase their wave-riding skills, bringing next-level surf foiling action to one of the best venues in the world. Stay tuned—this tour is just getting started!