Farrel Oshea

It will come as no surprise that Farrel Oshea has been added to the UKWA Hall of Fame. This award is normally bestowed when someone has finished their competing days but following his untimely passing on June the 2nd 2024, the Committee unanimously voted to bestow this award posthumously.

For those few who didn’t know Farrel he was one of the pioneers of British wave sailing back in the 80’s and was known for his missions to Fuerteventura and Maui, Hawaii with photographer Alex Williams. Alongside his love of the waves, his true passion eventually became speed sailing – entering his first event in Weymouth back in 1984. In 2005 he rekindled his love of speed sailing entering the Speed World Championships in Fuerteventura and in 2007 took the British record from another Legend of the Hall of Fame, Dave White and Farrel has held it since. Farrel spent many seasons chasing his goal to break the 50 knots barrier on the speed canal in Lüderitz, Namibia, and he eventually succeeded in achieving his goal, while also breaking his open British Record with a blistering run of 51.2 knots back in 2015.

He was still pushing the limits on the day of his passing seeing what speed could be achieved on the new sport of Wingfoiling setting a new British record speed at the same time. 

In 2013 he won the prestigious title of UKWA Windsurfer of the Year in recognition of his achievements in the speed world. 

Farrel was also a very successful businessman and set up O’Shea international, his own clothing, SUP and surf brand. Beyond his personal achievements, Farrel O’Shea was a mentor and sponsor to many aspiring sailors. He was always willing to share his knowledge and experience over a cup of tea with friends and fellow water sports enthusiasts. Farrel always had time for people, had an incredible dry sense of humour and he helped and inspired so many riders both on and off the water.