Kites and kitesurfers take flight in Torquay

KITESURFERS have taken to the waves off Point Danger, with this year’s world champions in the sport to be crowned on Sunday after five days of competition.

The final leg of the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) World Tour for men and women will be contested in Australia for the first time, following rounds in countries including Morocco, Portugal, Spain and Brazil.

Competition began yesterday (Wednesday, December 12), and organisers hope big crowds will turn out to admire the skill and acrobatics of competitors riding wind and waves in the peak international competition.

Kiteboarding Australia has hosted national qualifying for the World Cup event during the past four days, with Melbourne’s James Carew winning wildcard entry to the titles.

Kite-surfing combines elements of surfing, windsurfing and paragliding.

The Torquay event is supported by the Victorian government, the Surf Coast Shire and Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC).

International coverage is expected to attract tens of millions of viewers in more than 100 countries.

“With Torquay recognised as the home of Australian surfing, we welcome this great event as a natural fit,” shire mayor Rose Hodge said.

“The GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Torquay is forecast to bring thousands of visitors and bring $2 million in direct economic impact in its first year alone and almost $5 million in its third year.

“GKA staff and competitors have been outstanding with their focus on supporting local businesses, and I am particularly pleased the World Cup will combine with one of our local events – Jan Juc Pre-School’s Surf Coast Kite Festival on Saturday.

“We urge people to get down to Point Danger to take in the spectacle and participate in the family activities.”

World Cup Torquay competition is scheduled to run from 1-7pm today (Thursday, December 13) and tomorrow, 10am-6pm on Saturday and 10am- 5pm on Sunday.

Community activities accompanying competition will include beach sports and standup paddling from 10am to noon on Sunday.

The Surf Coast Kite Festival will run from 10am-2pm at Torquay Surf Beach and include kite-making workshops and sales, live music and entertainment for families.

GORCC played a major role in securing the World Cup in Torquay and is hosting competitors in the Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park.

For event details, head to kitesurftorquay.com.au or surfcoastkitefestival.com.au.