Exmouth to attract world class kite racers

Top sailing figures are flocking to Exmouth this June to participate in the annual kitesurfing competition organised by Edge Watersports.

The Edge Race Cup, due to take place on 6th and 7th June, has become the biggest national kitesurfing competition and is attracting worldwide interest as the warm-up event for the International Sailing Federation World Cup (ISAF) in Weymouth just days later.

Now in its fifth year, the event will see top racers compete for the British Championship with entrants already confirmed from France, Germany, Ireland and Poland.

Steph Bridge, owner of Edge Watersports and five times Kite Race World Champion, said: “We are going to experience some world class talent in action as international pros battle it out against the European champion, our own Olly Bridge on his home territory. Many are using this event as the warm-up for what lies ahead in the coming weeks.

“With prize money on offer from lead sponsor, ATASS, the competition is expected to be fierce but our aim is also to get more new people on the water. Our Open Kitesurf class remains a big part of the weekend featuring short slalom-style races and a fun distance race on the Sunday. This year we are also offering introductory powerkite lessons throughout the weekend with funds raised donated to the charity Surfers Against Sewage.

“Also unique to this year's cup, we will experience the latest in hydro-foiling with dramatic close-quarter action as these stealth sailors silently whip across the water at ridiculous speeds in the hope to steal 15 year old Guy Bridges' current British Championship title.”

Hydro-foiling is the latest in speed and performance reaching speeds up to 40 knots regularly while flying silently across the water.

Vanessa Cobb, representing the lead sponsor, Exeter-based ATASS stated: “Each year we witness the event growing as more people recognise the superb location Exmouth offers. Now that the event is running alongside the ISAF World Cup, we can expect even more focus on this part of the coastline. It seems Exmouth is going global but Steph maintains a great sense of community by ensuring local businesses, amateurs and professionals are involved in the weekend's activities.”

A kitesurf party will take place on the Saturday evening with refreshments provided by Pebblebed Vineyards. While a Surfers Against Sewerage beach clean-up is planned for the Sunday at 9am.

More details about competing in the Edge Race Cup and other activities during the weekend, are available from the Edge Watersports website – www.edgewatersports.com or by calling 01395 222551.