Kitesurfing, like many extreme sports, can be very dangerous to both the participant and bystanders without a proper understanding of how the equipment works. The sport’s governing body, the International Kitesurfing Organisation, advises that lessons are essential for any newcomer to the sport.
Ricky Cole, head honcho at Airtime Sports, has been supplying kitesurfing equipment to riders since May 09 when the Airtime Sports retail store was opened with a RNLI fundraiser. His feelings about the sport, and the potential of the local area are made quite clear;
“As an authorised dealer for some of the biggest names in kitesurfing, Airtime Sports is in the fortunate position of being able to offer local kitesurfers the chance to try out a huge range of equipment. At Hillhead we have one of the best kiting spots on the South Coast. Due to the quality of the local instructors, the progression we see in the new riders here is second to none…”
Local IKO instructor and owner of the Southampton Kitesurfing Centre, Ross Blainey, shares a mutual view;
''Safety has to be the number one factor in Kiteboarding, if kiters aren't fully trained in rescue techniques things can go wrong fast. As a local kitesurfing school we feel it is our duty to ensure we are always on hand to offer guidance and advice to newcomers.
There is always the threat of beaches being banned due to dangerous incidents, we are here to make sure that our local beach runs smoothly and stays open to kitesurfers. We want everyone to come of the water with a smile.''
Kitesurfing lessons cost from 100 GBP for a single day introduction course, up to 290 GBP for a full 3 day course. Between October 2009 and March 2010 Airtime Sports and the Southampton Kitesurfing Centre will be teaming up to offer newcomers an incentive to learn to kiteboard safely. Anyone who books a 1,2 or 3-day Southampton Kitesurfing Centre course, via Airtime Sports, will receive a 100 GBP discount voucher which may be used against any complete kite and board package in-store.
For further information on safer kitesurfing, and availability of lessons, contact Airtime Sports on 023 9255 3607, or visit http://www.airtimekitesurfing.com.
