Sylt - an island in Northern Germany - is a unique place in a way. Reachable by a small, four-seat plane from Hamburg or a ferry from Denmark, it is one of the PWA World Cup venues, with annual competitions taking place in September. The world's top windsurfing professionals flock there with stars like Nick Baker, Antoine Albeau, Kauli Seadi and Jason Polakow among them. As far as I remember, no other venue ever gathers so many spectators, having made their journey especially to see the race. And not for nothing Sylt has been selected - the North Sea provides exceptional surfing conditions. Wind, blowing in turns from south and west, and impressive waves, too, give a perfect opportunity for windsurfers to demonstrate their skills. Afterwards, competitors as well as spectators gather at the American Bar, a chief meeting spot of the town. The place swarms with people and a huge queue forms at the bar. Yet, chatting and sharing impressions, time passes unnoticed. However, going to Sylt as a participant, not a spectator, it's advisable to take your own gear with you and to check out lodging availability in advance. This year competitions will take place from September 26 to October 5, with an impressive bonus pool of 105.000 Euros as well.