Simon “Cookie” Cook has become one of the most recognizable coaching voices in windsurfing. Through his Ride Along videos, clinics, and years of coaching experience, he has helped countless riders improve their skills and gain confidence on the water.
As a long-time member of the Starboard Dream Team, Cookie is known for breaking down complex techniques into simple, easy-to-follow steps that make progression accessible for everyone—from first-time planing to advanced manoeuvres.
With another busy summer ahead in Vassiliki, we caught up with Cookie to talk about coaching, progression, equipment, and what continues to motivate him after all these years in the sport.
Cookie, you’ve become a well-known name in the windsurfing world through your coaching and Ride Along content. For those new to the scene, how did your journey into windsurfing and coaching begin?
"I’ve been windsurfing for many years now, and it’s always been a huge part of my life. Over time, I realised how much I enjoyed helping others improve—whether that was friends on the beach or people asking questions about gear and technique. That naturally grew into coaching, and eventually into creating tutorials. The goal has always stayed the same: make windsurfing easier to understand, more accessible, and ultimately more fun."
Your Ride Along tutorials have gained a strong following. What makes your approach different?
"It’s all about clarity and connection. The on-board camera setup, combined with clear audio, allows people to feel like they’re right there with me on the water. I talk riders through the process step-by-step, focusing on the key details that actually make a difference. It’s not just about showing the move—it’s about helping people understand how to get there in a way that works for them."
You work with a huge range of riders. What’s the key to progression?
"Strong foundations. It sounds simple, but it’s everything. A lot of people rush ahead without really locking in the basics, and that’s where progression slows down. If you take the time to build solid fundamentals—stance, balance, board control—everything else becomes easier. As I always say, “all good things start up wind”—it’s become such a thing with my followers that we’ve even got it printed on t-shirts!"
How important is the board in that progression?
"The board is absolutely critical. It’s your platform, your stability, your confidence. The right board can completely change how quickly someone improves and how much they enjoy their sessions. That’s what I love about Starboard—the range allows you to match the board perfectly to the rider, whether they’re just starting out or pushing into more advanced sailing."
What are you up to this summer in Vassiliki?
"I’ll be back in Vassiliki running coaching clinics throughout the season. We work with a mix of levels, but a big focus is helping intermediate and advanced riders break through to the next stage—early planing, carve gybes, and overall control on the water. Alongside that, I’m always available for bespoke coaching, whether it’s individuals, groups, or families looking to improve together."
You’re also heavily involved in instructor development. Why is that important to you?
"Developing instructors is key to growing the sport. Good coaching creates confident riders, and that keeps people engaged long-term. I spend a lot of time working with new and existing instructors, helping them refine both their technical understanding and how they communicate it. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I work closely with WaterSport Nomads in Vassiliki, who offer 4–6 training and development programs. It’s such a great opportunity for people to get into the sport, and really make the steps from riders, to coaches and qualified instructors—ready to take their passion all over the world!"
If you had to pick one board—or maybe a couple—that really represent what you love about windsurfing, what would they be and why?
"I mean, I love playing on boards like the Kode and Ignite—they’re super fun when you want to push things a bit more. But if I’m being honest, the boards I use the most are the Go Windsurfer and the Carve.
They just make everything easy. You step on, and it works—almost on autopilot. Whether it’s light winds, stronger conditions, or just cruising around with different people, they keep things simple and fun. That’s what I think is so important—gear that doesn’t get in the way, it actually helps you enjoy the session.
They’re also perfect for mixed levels. You can have beginners, progressing riders, and more experienced sailors all using the same setup and having a great time. For me, that’s exactly what windsurfing should be about—accessible, fun, and something everyone can enjoy together."
You spend your winters in the mountains. How does that side of your career connect with windsurfing?
"A lot more than people think. In the winter I’m working as an off-piste ski and snowboard instructor in the French Alps, and the principles are exactly the same—balance, control, reading the environment, and building solid fundamentals. Whether it’s on water or snow, you’re constantly adapting to the conditions.
The coaching approach carries straight across too. Break things down, keep it simple, and give people the tools to improve step by step. It’s just a different playground, but the mindset is identical."
Your final message to the Starboard community?
"Keep it simple, focus on the fundamentals, and make sure you’re enjoying it. With the right approach and the right equipment windsurfing becomes a lot more accessible and a lot more fun."
For more information on coaching in Vassiliki or to get involved this summer, reach out to cookiesports@outlook.com.
Follow Cookie:
Instagram: @cookiesport
TikTok: @ridealongcookie
Website: https://watersportsnomad.com
