This May, I’m heading to the south of France for something special – the Ultimate DeFi Wing Experience 2026 in Gruissan. Five days of wingfoil coaching, racing, and community, organized by Surfcenter from the Netherlands. And I’ll be there as one of two main coaches alongside Bowien van der Linden, with Balz Müller joining as guest coach and advisor.
I just sat down with Kalle to talk about what this event is all about – and let’s just say, his excitement is contagious. Watch the full conversation here:
What Is the DeFi Wing Experience?
The DeFi Wing Experience is not your average wingfoil event. It’s a five-day program (May 9-13) that combines professional coaching, wing racing, technical seminars, and a real community atmosphere – all in one of the best wing spots in the Mediterranean.
The event is structured around daily coaching sessions, practice races, and seminars covering everything from rigging and tuning to race strategy and speed technique. Every evening wraps up with evaluations and social time – because that’s where some of the best learning happens, in honest conversations over a drink.
Who Is This For?
If you’re an intermediate to advanced wingfoiler who wants to take your riding – and especially your racing – to the next level, this is built for you. Whether you’ve been riding for a season or three, the coaching is designed to push you forward, no matter where you are in your progression.
This isn’t a beginners’ clinic. It’s for riders who are already on the foil and want to get sharper – better starts, cleaner jibes, more efficient upwind technique, and the confidence to hold your line in a race with hundreds of other riders.
Families and partners are welcome too – Gruissan is a beautiful spot to spend a few days, even off the water.
The Coaches
This is where it gets really exciting. Two main coaches with deep coaching experience, plus a guest advisor who brings pure creativity and style:
Bowien van der Linden – One of the strongest female wingfoil competitors on the GWA World Tour and a true allround talent. Known for her powerful, technical style and her experience in all disciplines and conditions.
Michael Rossmeier (that’s me) – I’ve been coaching watersports for over 20 years, and wingfoiling since the very beginning. As the creator of the Tricktionary book series, my focus is on structured progression – helping you understand not just what to do, but why it works. Every participant gets a copy of the Wingfoil Tricktionary to take home.
Balz Müller (Radiculo) – Guest Coach & Advisor – If you’ve seen the videos, you know. Balz is a waterman in the truest sense – fearless, creative, and constantly pushing what’s possible on a wing. He’ll be joining the event to share insights, ride with participants, and bring that extra spark of inspiration.
What’s Included
The DeFi Wing Experience is an all-in package:
- Pre-event preparation – online sessions, 1-on-1 video calls, fitness program via app, and personalized gear advice before you even arrive
- Three days of racing with practice races and evaluations
- Professional coaching from Bowien and Michael on and off the water, with Balz as guest advisor
- Technical seminars – rigging, tuning, starts, jibes, speed, strategy
- Event merchandise – hoodie, t-shirts, lycra, stickers
- Wingfoil Tricktionary book included
- Photo and video coverage of the event
- Evening programs – welcome dinner, meet & greets, social nights
- Priority access to the 2027 edition
Book Your Spot
The DeFi Wing Experience runs May 9-13, 2026 in Gruissan, France.
Price: €689 per person
Spots are limited. If you’re serious about progressing your wingfoiling and want to experience what a proper event feels like – and checking off one amazing next level wingfoil thing on your bucket list – with world-class coaches, great conditions, and a community of riders who share your passion – this is it.
See you in Gruissan.
– Michi
