One thing for certain at Wavegarden is that innovation is constant. Our latest technology – a video capture technology that we call CheckMySurf – provides surf park operators and surfers with an unparalleled video capture, replay, editing and distribution service. We use a range of AI capabilities, including face recognition, to deliver some very impressive features, especially for surfers who are keen to improve their ability and for surf park developers interested in increasing their revenue.
As with all our tech, we crafted it in-house and in a manner that ensures every ride of every surfer is captured, in both the Reef and Bay areas. The unique feature of our system is that it is connected to the wave generator and outdoor LED screens positioned alongside the take-off area. This integration not only allows surfers to instantly view wave replays as they return to the lineup – a key tool for improving their technique – but also provides them with real-time session information, including wave details, time remaining until the next wave and end of session, as well as important safety announcements for surf lagoon operations. As an added advantage, surf park operators can showcase targeted advertisements and branded content, further enhancing the overall experience.
Our CEO Josema Odriozola has been very involved with CheckMySurf´s R&D process. “We have been very focused on creating a practical system for surfers to review their waves and improve their ability, while delivering an intelligent and easy solution for surf park operators,” said Josema. “Having the system connected to the wave-making machinery and large outdoor screens is by far the best option.”
To ensure the optimum performance in the long term, we use a range of premium components including 4K professional-grade cameras that has intuitive zooming capabilities to accurately recognize the identity of each surfer throughout the entirety of the lagoon, an exclusive feature to our system.
For customers, the system generates individual clips for every wave and allocates them to each surfer immediately following sessions. This allows customers to conveniently watch, download, and share their waves thanks to the fully automated digital distribution platform.
And the quality of the images is nothing short of astonishing, just ask Italian pro surfer and WSL #9, Leo Fioravanti, who recently used the system to practice his first-ever backflip at Alaïa Bay in Switzerland—a maneuver that only a handful of surfers have ever landed. “You just review your wave on the big screen and then try to implement improvements on the next wave. It helped me get the backflip dialled, just check my Instagram,” explained Leo, with a big grin.
For surf park operators, implementing CheckMySurf is turnkey. There is no need for antennas and bracelets, and the system can be easily integrated into the existing web booking section, allowing customers to register and pay for the service without being transferred to external websites.
The software and most of the hardware, except the LED screens, are supplied and installed without any capital outlay, requiring no investment of precious time or resources by operators. The business model is based on a revenue share, an arrangement that equates to the cheapest, simplest, yet most advanced and profitable solution imaginable.
We have extensively tested the system at our demo center in Spain as well as at Alaïa Bay in Switzerland to ensure the system operates in compliance with GDPR data protection. And we are now installing it in all future Wavegarden projects. Although the tech is quite advanced, we are currently developing some further upgrades including an automated biomechanical 3D coaching tool to analyse the motion of the surfer’s body vs the biomechanics of surfing maneuvers to offer valuable improvement recommendations.
