Top kite surfers expected for Cannon Rocks event

STAFF REPORTER

THE sleepy seaside village of Cannon Rocks will once again be invaded by kite surfers from all over South Africa and the world for the third annual Halyards Cannon Rocks Kite-boarding Classic from January 3 to 6.

Cannon Rocks, between Bushman's River and Alexandria, is home to one of the top kite-boarding destinations in South Africa.

The event, originally set up to expose the tremendous potential of this venue, has developed into one of the top kite-boarding events in South Africa.

January's event promises to be bigger than ever with major sponsors coming on board.

Top South African riders have already confirmed their attendance as well as some high profile international riders.

"Cannon Rocks, being half way between Cape Town and Durban, is the perfect backdrop for a showdown among all of South Africa's top riders,” said event organiser Cedric Vandenschrik.

"However they will be facing stiff competition from some of the international riders.”

Even though the spotlight will be on competition among the pro riders, Vandenschrik remains dedicated to the amateurs and novices within the sport.

"The Halyards Cannon Rocks Kiteboarding Classic will have a festival feel with much emphasis placed on the ‘fun' aspect of our sport. It's about showing off our sport and our beautiful coastline,” he said.

The Halyards Hotel has come on board as a naming sponsor and is assisting with infrastructure on the beach. There will be refreshments, shade, music, a jumping castle for the kids, with some alternative activities planned should the wind be too soft for the competitors.

Peter Lynn Kiteboarding will once again be a major cash contributor making the contest appealing to the pro riders.

"They have supported the event from the start and have been a pillar of strength,” said Vandenschrik.

Other main sponsors are Dakine, VanHunks Boarding, Cannon Rocks Home Builders, Pam Golding, Cannon Rocks Holiday Resort, Ozone, and a string of other smaller sponsors who will contribute equipment and prizes, "which will make the amateur/ novice riders very happy”, he said.

There will also be a lucky draw at the closing ceremony with all riders receiving a prize.

Red Bull will be keeping the athletes ready for action on the beach.

"The whole of the Cannon Rocks community and businesses have come together to ensure a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for the riders. Expect to ‘meet the locals',” said Vandenschrik.

The event will introduce the wider public to the vibrant sport of kite-boarding with all its different disciplines: freestyle, wave riding, racing and open expression.

The event will kick off with an opening function and registration for the riders at the Halyards Hotel on January 2 at 7pm.

The festivities will kick off on the beach on January 3 at 9am.

The entry fee for competitors is R250.

For more information and pre-registration visit .