Originally titled the Big Charity Downwinder but now rebranded the Virgin Kitesurfing Armada will take place in September on the first favourable forecast and aims to set a new world record.
Featuring a downwind route from Hayling to Lancing the event hopes to raise money for charity and enter the Guinness Book of World Records for having the largest number of kitesurfers complete a mile long run.
The big news is not only have Virgin come on board as headline sponsors Mr Branson himself a keen kitesurfer will hopefully be attending and taking part. Also on hand will be pro rider Lewis Crathern who made headlines a few years ago when he launched himself over teh top of Worthing Pier.
Haylings own CBK (Chris Bull Kitesurfing) are also supporting the event and have donated a number of wooden sculptures as prizes.
Many riders from Hayling will be hoping to complete the challenge. A recent post on the event Facebook page suggested that 300+ kiters had signed up to date.
The total distance is 46 miles from Hayling to Lancing and with two official stop off points for those who dont wish to complete a full lap (Pagham and Littlehampton) riders can stay well within their comfort zones and not feel they have to push their limits unnecessarily.
For the world record rules state that 250 or more kitesurfers need to ride in tangent over a mile long course. This section of the challenge will be completed at Hayling before those that wish head off downwind towards Lancing.
More information can be found by visiting the Virgin Kitesurfing Armada page – http://www.snow-camp.org.uk/events/big-charity-kitesurfing-downwinder
