The Ikaros Effect: How CHS Achieved Two Wingfoil World Records in One Season

In 2025, the CHS Ikaros S1 became the first CHS wing to power an athlete to two official WSSR world records: the 500-meter wingfoil speed record and the nautical mile wingfoil speed record. This article recaps how the Ikaros S1 was engineered for speed — and why it set a new benchmark in the sport.

Two World Records, One Wing

The Prince of Speed event in La Palme (France) is where the fastest sailors go to challenge physics.
In 2025, CHS entered the spotlight when Audrey-Marie Agnes achieved:

  • World Record — 500 meters: 31.00 knots
  • World Record — Nautical Mile: 29.40 knots
  • Peak Speed during runs: 33.6 knots

These results were officially validated by the World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSR).

The Ikaros S1 wasn’t just the wing used — it was the weapon that allowed Audrey to keep control at extreme speeds with unmatched aerodynamics and rigid stability.

Why the CHS Ikaros S1 Made the Difference

The Ikaros S1 was developed as a pure performance machine.

Key design principles:

  • Rigid central frame → no twist loss at high load
  • Optimized twist for speed runs → stability without drag
  • Compact outline → more control in 30+ knot conditions
  • Load-balanced canopy tension → predictable pressure point

The result is a wing that stays incredibly steady at high speed — giving the rider confidence to push harder on each run.

🛠️ The Setup Used

Wing: CHS Ikaros S1
Foil: Chabunga Speed (high-aspect)
Board: Custom low-drag speed board
Wind: 28–35 knots
Conditions: Flat water corridor, offshore wind
Focus: Max stability at full power + minimal induced drag

📐 The Maestro’s Notes

“Speed records happen only when athlete and rig become one.
The Ikaros S1 was shaped to keep its profile locked under extreme load —
no flutter, no distortion, no surprises.
At 30 knots, a wing must stay silent and stable.
That’s the philosophy behind every millimeter of this design.”

📊 Before CHS / After CHS

Before CHS

  • No officially certified world speed records in wingfoil
  • Typical female peak speeds ranged between 25–28 knots
  • No WSSR recognition for CHS wings

After the Ikaros S1 (2025)

  • 2 World Records (500m and Nautical Mile)
  • Peak speeds beyond 33 knots
  • Global media coverage and recognition from the speed sailing community
  • CHS becomes referenced as a performance wing brand internationally

Conclusion

The “Ikaros Effect” symbolizes a leap forward for CHS.
Through advanced engineering and handcrafted precision, the Ikaros S1 has shown that a niche Italian wing brand can outperform global manufacturers at the highest level.

The 2025 dual world record season is only the beginning — and CHS is already working on the next evolution.

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