Team Riders Talk: What Scott Norman and Aaron Smith Are Looking Forward to in 2026!
- Team OTC
- 13 minutes ago
- 3 min read
As we look ahead to 2026, the energy around The Official Test Centre is already building. From racing returns to long, windy seasons abroad, two of our OTC Team Riders – Scott Norman and Aaron Smith – share what they’re most excited about in the year ahead, and why the OTC remains at the heart of their windsurfing lives.
Scott Norman: Back on the Start Line
For Scott Norman, 2026 marks a long-awaited return to the international racing scene.
After stepping away from competition for a year to focus on exams, Scott is feeling refreshed, motivated, and more than ready to line up on the start line again.
“2026 is looking like a mega year for a few reasons. After having a year’s break from the international scene due to exams, I’m more than ready to get back racing!”
Alongside racing, Scott is equally excited about his role as a coach and instructor. Teaching at the OTC allows him to share his experience with the next generation and introduce new people to the world of watersports.
“With teaching and coaching on the side, I hope to bring some new faces into the watersport world.”
Having the iQFOiL World Championships hosted locally only adds to the excitement, offering inspiration, atmosphere, and a rare chance to see the very best riders in the world up close.
“With the iQ Worlds being held here too, it will definitely give some entertainment and inspiration. Here’s to another year of fun on the water!”
Aaron Smith: Strong Winds and Smart Training
For Aaron Smith, the priorities for 2026 are refreshingly clear.
“Strong winds mainly!”
Aaron is once again heading to Vassiliki, Greece, where he’ll spend another seven months chasing reliable thermal winds and clocking serious water time.
But with experience comes perspective. Aaron is focused on longevity, balance, and making sure his body can keep up when conditions turn on.
“Starting to get a bit older now, so I’m trying to maximise water time by looking after myself a little more during no-wind periods.”
That means cycling through the summer, staying active, and working on flexibility – even if he admits there’s always room for improvement.
“Getting plenty of miles on my bike and stretching (still not enough…). When the wind blows, I want to be able to make the most of it.”
What You Can Do at the OTC
Whether you’re inspired by Scott’s return to racing or Aaron’s pursuit of maximum water time, the Official Test Centre is where it all comes together.
At the OTC you can:
Learn to windsurf or wingfoil, from complete beginner to advanced levels.
Test the latest equipment from leading brands before you buy from SurfDoctor
Get coached by experienced riders who compete and train at the highest level.
Join a welcoming watersports community, where progression and fun go hand in hand.
Train, race, or simply blast, depending on what you want from your time on the water.
From first tacks to full-power planing sessions, the OTC is about creating opportunities – whether that’s launching international careers or helping someone fall in love with windsurfing for the very first time.
With riders like Scott and Aaron setting the tone, 2026 is shaping up to be another unforgettable year on the water.
New Year, try a new watersports! Click here to book!
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