This was the second year for KiteJam, we were hoping to improve on the success of last years event, and we believe that we achieved this.
Kiteboarding is a very young sport, and notoriously difficult to arrange an event/competition for, as the weather conditions and location required for top riding performance are rarely matched to great spectator venues or infrastructure. However, I feel that this recent KiteJam event combines all these factors perfectly, and provides a unique formula for a top-level Kiteboarding display, and opportunity for spectators to attend and enjoy the event too. This was evident by the estimated 300 people who attended the event during the course of the day- a large number for a Kiteboarding competition.

We had a full entry list of 30 riders, including a number of international pro-riders, national champions and of course the best of the local Perth kiteboarders. A total of 27 open division men entered and 3 in the ladies division. Our international entries represented the UK, New Zealand, Sweden and Germany. The winner on the day was our National champion from Queensland- Andy Yates, who has now joined the world
professional tour.

The event site was setup with the KiteJam ‘village’ on the sheltered shores of Safety Bay Road, with an elevated position overlooking the Tern-Island reserve and the competition area. This housed the main event Red Bull marquee, the food and admin stalls, the Angostura beach bar, the Kite Elements clothing stall and the Soft-serve ice cream vendor.

A short walk away to the Tern Island reserve is the best for keen spectators, who can sit comfortably on the sheltered banks of the beach and enjoy a ringside view of the kiteboarding. This is where we positioned the PA system and commentary team on
the event boat.

The event itself ran smoothly, with no major incidents, the weather and wind conditions were perfect, and this was evident in the quality of the Kiteboarding. The tricks and manoeuvres on display was amazing, and combined with the free-flowing and low-pressure competition format provided a spectacular show. This was undoubtedly one of the best freestyle Kiteboarding competitions yet held in Australia.
Both in quality of riding and high profile competitors, but also in spectator attendance.

This Kitejam has raised a huge amount of interest within the fast growing kiteboarding community and is receiving publicity through various media. These include chat, photos and articles on the kiteboarding websites and internet forums, feature articles in upcoming editions of Core Online kiteboarding magazine, KiteMag Australian Kiteboarder magazine (KBM). A feature in the new WAKSA newsletter and webpage, and of course ‘word of mouth’ chat and conversation amongst spectators and attendees of the event.

Once again, thank you for your part in making this event possible. We hope to see the return of KiteJam next summer, and hope you will join us again!

Kind Regards
Lance Gelden
Event coordinator – Kitejam