Tactical position While most gangly teenagers are, by nature, tactically oblivious, there are some strategic principles involved in going fast while zigzagging. First, consider the wind strength. Reaching provides you a wider choice of angles to avoid slow-moving waves. If you come into the weather mark in a left-hand shift, jibe onto port so you can be by the lee immediately, while pointing most directly at the mark. Pressure and waves are far more important.
Clear air does matter, as better pressure always means better speed.
But lateral freedom is just as important. In wave-riding conditions, you need to have at least 100 feet of space on either side of you, so your bottom and top turns can be made without restriction from other boats. So pick a course that gets you away from the crowd early. Finally, get out on the water and put in your practice time. Wave riding is a high-wire act.