gKITE SURFING  Kitesurfing
is an activity that effectively combines windsurfing, wakeboarding, surfing,
paragliding and power kiting and involves using a large re-launchable kite
to power you on the water on a small surfboard. Just like wakeboarding
without a boat or surfing without the need to paddle. Providing you have
wind and some water you have a huge three-dimensional playground to enjoy.
Most kitesurfing takes place off the beach, particularly where there is
an onshore breeze and shallow water.
With the large open and un-crowded sandy beaches, short summer nights,
clear waters and some of the best surf conditions in the UK, Scotland is
fast becoming a must visit destination for kitesurf junkies. Kitesurfers
can be found flying at rocket-speed across beaches and lochs on the Isle
of Tiree, the Isle of Lewis, at Troon, Nairn, Ellie and Longniddry. The
main season for kitesurfing in Scotland is from May to October although
it is possible to surf all year round - dry suits essential though.
A professionally run school and instruction network is developing throughout
the UK with a growing number of qualified IKO/BKSA instructors (International
Kitesurfing Organisation / British Kite Surfing Association). Located at
some of the best spots on both the West and East Coast of Scotland these
schools give you the best and compulsory tuition to get you on your first
wave.
Over on the east coast at West Sands in St Andrews where you will find
the home of KSS (Kite Sports Scotland), Scotlands first accredited IKO/BKSA
certified school. With well travelled and respected instructors you will
enjoy your time in this location.
'Learn to Kitesurf' Courses are available through 2Extremes
who are based in Central Scotland. One day Taster Session costs £80
per person. A two day course costs £190 per person - qualified instructors
will teach the basic skills that you require to be able to kitesurf independently
including essential elements such as self rescue.
Links:
TOURIST BOARD
www.visitscotland.com/adventure
SCOTLAND’S NATIONAL TOURIST BOARD
ORGANISATIONS
www.kitesurfing.org THE BRITISH
KITESURFING ASSOCIATION
www.kcos.org KITE CLUB OF SCOTLAND
www.spka.co.uk SCOTTISH POWERKITE ASSOCIATION
KITESURFING COMPANY’S
www.2extremes.co.uk
2EXTREMES
www.flyingfever.net FLYING FEVER
www.windthings.co.uk WIND THINGS
OTHER KITESURFING AND KITEBOARDING INFORMATION
www.kiteboardingmag.com KITEBOARDING
MAGAZINE
kiteboardingasia.com KITEBOARDING
ASIA
www.ikorg.com INTERNATIONAL KITEBOARDING
ORGANIZATION
|
