There are few things that are worse than a wave event without any wind- a wave event without any wind in Wales, being a kitesurfer, losing control of ALL bodily functions by the end of an SWA party or the girl of your dreams letting one rip in bed. For the last two years, Wave-X-goers had witnessed unreal conditions with epic winds, gnarly waves and some sick moves but to everyone's dismay the wind gods decided not to play ball for 2008. From ten days before the event the forecast was looking epic with mast high swell and 30-40 knots of wind. Texts were flying around everywhere, with everyone being super keen to head down there. Then on the Thursday the last of the wind slipped out of the weekends forecast and pushed forward to Friday.

Friday night:
Students and ex-students alike made their apologies to work colleagues and bosses to hit the water a day early and make the most of the forecast. Friday saw 5m weather with logo high sets coming through; the bravest of the SWA hit a variety of wave spots ranging from Weymouth, Kimeridge, Daymer bay and Bigbury , all enjoying the large swells and North-westerly winds.with as much neoprene as was physically possible. Brr! A post windsurf beer or 5 in the Ram later saw a great turn out of budding beginner wave riders and seasoned pro's signing up despite the forecast. The prospect of a no-wind event left windsurfers with a bizarre, empty feeling that could only be suppressed by copious drinks and some people peaking a night too soon!

Saturday:
The sweet scent of bacon sarnies lured everyone out of bed and on the road to a surf comp at Woolacombe. Pumping 5 to 6 foot swell and gorgeous sunshine proved Cornwall has still got what it takes to tickle anyone's fancy. Everyone whipped out their best moves and enjoyed some of the sickest waves to reach England's shores since last year despite finding out the hard way that "coastal waters in the South-West stay at a steady 21 degrees all year round" is a dirty lie.

Saturday night:
Saturday night saw sub zero temperatures combined with swimwear, short shorts and more beater action then you can shake a stick at for a Baywatch themed party. SWA Company Director Beaker as per usual was on form as were the rest of the SWA, with drinks flowing, what seemed to be unlimited pizza to be eaten and a whole load of party animals heading to the Union it was an awesome Saturday night party. A couple of highlights were interestingly a barricade, consisting of a chair, stopping people from entering a pub. Beaker then used that chair to escape the pub via a collision with the door frame and someone managed to be thrown out of that very Pub. Bristol and UWE windsurfers also made a much appreciated guest appearance and helped throw the sickest moves onto the dance floor, partying until the lights came on.

Sunday:
A small surviving swell could not tease anyone out of bed early on Sunday so the day was dedicated to simply feeling more sober, less shaky and sharing tales of the night before! Cardiff headed for the mountains in search of some muddy mountain boarding and the surviving Bristol, UWE and Exeter clan enjoyed a romantic walk and pub lunch to round off a thoroughly enjoyable weekend.

It may not have been windy, there may not have been windsurfing but Wave X 08 was still bigger, better and more extreme than last year if only in the partying department! And who doesn't love a good party?! So thanks to the Exeter committee for hosting the event and RRD/EZZY for sponsoring the series.