The UK is to showcase super-fast kite foil racing in the countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympics when the RYA hosts the 2023 Formula Kite European Championships.
The world's best racers from the Olympic circuit will battle it out on the waters off Eastney Beach in Portsmouth from September 19 to 24 for the title of European champion – and potentially a place at the Games.
Kite foiling sees riders ‘fly’ above the water on hydrofoils attached to boards, powered by huge kites which can propel them to incredible speeds of up to 45 knots (51mph)
It will be the first time the UK has hosted an international Formula Kite regatta since the exciting new discipline was added to the Olympic roster.
Crucially the regatta will continue the legacy of London 2012, offering world-class racing in a city centre location easily watched by spectators
UK Sport has provided National Lottery funding for the regatta, and the RYA has teamed up with Portsmouth City Council to deliver the event on behalf of the IKA.
Esther Britten, Head of Major Events at UK Sport, said: “We are really pleased to have supported the successful bid to bring the Formula Kite European Championships to Portsmouth and we are delighted that the Championships will provide a fantastic opportunity for people to enjoy live elite sport free of charge. As ever, we would like to thank The National Lottery for their support for this event.
Cllr Steve Pitt, Portsmouth City Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure & Economic Development, said: “As the great waterfront city, we're honoured that Portsmouth was chosen to host the 2023 Formula Kite European Championships.
We're looking forward to working in partnership with the RYA to deliver a memorable event for residents and visitors alike, especially as this event is one of few opportunities to qualify for the kite foil racing events at the 2024 Olympics.”
Find out more information about the Formula Kite European Championships.
If you’re attending the RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show at Farnborough International don’t miss British Sailing Team kite foiler Ellie Aldridge talking about the Formula Kite European Championships on the main stage on February 25.
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