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The V8 was a surprise package in that its stability disguises a fast (in relation to stability) Surf Ski. I was expecting a hard slog over the approximately 5km course, which to my surprise I didn't have to endure. On the (jump) start I was away quickly and straight on to the wash of a V12, which I was able to hold on to for 50m or so until he surged and I dropped back on his wash and my boat stalled. I quickly and easily jumped on to the next wash until I repeated the above. I continued in this manner 3/4 of the way out to the turn can upon which I realised I was sitting with the back mid pack (Atom, V10L, and Stellar something) and they were wash riding me! 100-200m before the can the bunch put in a sprint and all 3 beat me to the turn. At the turn I was able to turn alot quicker in the shorter V8 and was once again neck and neck with the V10L and Stellar. The ride back in was straight in to a head wind which let the V8s stability show its benefits. I was able to really concentrate on all my technique points and didn't really think that I had much of a chance against the faster boats around me, until I looked up and saw that I had halved the distance between myself and the Atom. Head down and focusing on techniqueI was able to paddle past her and keep her behind me to the finish. With a result of 86% and only "elite" skis in front of me (and a good number behind) the V8 showed its self to be a good performer and a great place to start your Surf Ski career.
So in conclusion, the V8 is a well thoughut out beginners platform, with a nice narrow entry to let paddlers learn good technique early on. The V8s one downfall is the extent of the stall, but as a plus this will encourage the paddler to find and sit in the sweet spot on wash and waves.
