Atlantic Watersports Games 2011

North Devon will be hosting the Atlantic Watersports Games this year with teams coming from regions across Europe to compete in several different watersports over 3 days. The sports will be   Kitesurfing, Surfing, Surf Kayak, Ocean Kayak, Rowing and Gigs, Surf Life Saving and Sailing. Up to 350 International athletes will compete in these sports following the opening ceremony on Sunday 24^th July 2011 in Bideford Games Village, North Devon.

The Kitesurfing will take place at Westward Ho! in North Devon and the event will be run by the British Kitesurfing Association with North Devon Kitesurfing School. Teams can be made up of: Under 21’s Girls and Boys (freestyle and race) and under 15’s Girls and Boys (freestyle and race). The maximum number of competitors per team is 12, but any number below that can enter (teams of 2 or 3 have entered from France for example). Each team entering should have a suitable team coordinator.

Richard Gowers from the British Kitesurfing Association said “Kitesurfing is new to the Games and  we are hoping to make this competition a success so that it will be run in future years. Kitesurfing as a sport is developing quickly across Europe and is now one of the fastest growing watersports in the world”.

North Devon Kitesurfing’s Steve Rodcliff added “This competition will give young English Kitesurfers the opportunity to compete against some of Europe’s best up and coming talent. The location couldn’t be better as Westward Ho! beach is well known in the Kitesurfing world. There is a natural spectator viewing area on the famous pebble ridge feature, so you will be sure to catch all of the action”.

Any county in England is eligible to enter, and we are looking for good representation from young UK Kitesurfers. Entry fees apply and there is a very reasonable competitor package for full board accommodation. Kitesurfers will get the chance to meet all of the other sports competitors on a daily basis at the Atlantic Watersports Games Village in Bideford for the opening ceremony and evening meals. Some entertainment will be provided.

We are looking at putting on Power Kite taster sessions for keen members of the public during the competition.

If you are keen to compete in or coordinate a team, then please get in touch with the Atlantic Watersports Games team in Bideford on 01237 426553 or email [email protected]. The Games are being coordinated by Development company North Devon+, based in Bideford.