Australian Kite Surfing Challenge

The inaugral Australian Kite Surfing Challenge was held on the weekend of 27-28 Mar 99 in Adelaide.  The event was sponsored by The Kite Factory as part of the Adelaide International Kite Festival.   The weather covered the full extremes from almost nil wind, a few patches of steady 5-10 kts through to gusts of up to 40 kts.  Winds also varied from directly on-shore, side-shore and off-shore to keep competitors on their toes.  The following pictures captured from my digital video taken by Hung Vu tell a better story (Right click to view full size versions):

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Another tabletop from Kane

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Alex and his custom "Stonker" board getting ready for another run

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Ben launching his 8.5m Wipika with some expert advice from the Australian distributor, Mat Colefax
Some of the boards used in the comp from L to R: Peter Lynn used by Kane & Stephanie, WinDesigns 2.1m used by Ian, Peter Lynn, Unknown make used by Dave, Peter Lynn, Kim from Glen Innes used by Mat & Alex's "Stonker" wakeboard

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Ben doing another great loop

Ian getting vertical in 40 kts as Kane gets ready to hit the water for some freestyle

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Kane after he got out.

Ian water-starting after another wipeout

Mat & Alex discussing tactics

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Ian gets some small jumps in lighter conditions

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Kane getting some more Air!

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The start of the two slalom races

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Ben's perfect loop

Click on it to see an animated GIF version (646K)