 |
|
Surfparks has successfully made indoor surfing on perfectly-shaped waves a
reality. Natural waves require a precise mix of wind, swell, tide, and
sea-floor contour, and these elements synchronize in only a handful of locations
around the world. In spite of its elusive playing field, surfing has undergone
explosive growth in the last decade. Fueled by massive exposure in mainstream
media, participation rates have increased significantly over the past years.
Unfortunately, all but the most remote world-class surf breaks are now
dangerously overcrowded and demand for quality surfing waves far outstrips
supply. It is not uncommon to see over 250 surfers vying for waves at a single
surf spot.
New technology has now made the perfect surfing wave technically feasible and
economically viable. Surfparks is capable of creating six perfect waves per minute, each up to 8 feet
high with up to 100-yard rides. Using a computer-controlled floor that allows
wave shape, peeling speed, and direction (left/right) to be altered at frequent
intervals, Surfparks is able to produce a wide range of wave heights featuring
some of the best-known surf breaks around the world.
Unlike water parks or theme parks, the Surfparks experience is affordable,
variable, and exciting. As the lead institutional investor,
Funk Ventures Capital Partners
participated in Surfpark's $9 million initial round of financing in early 2005.
The company's first Surfpark in Orlando broke ground in early 2006 and is set
for completion by the end of the year.
|
