The Virgin Kitesurfing Armada
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Arguably the most famous kitesurfer around, Sir Richard Branson gives his support for the Big Charity Downwinder, which is now going to be called the Virgin Kitesurfing Armada. Richard’s support not only secures this years event but also keeps it on the calendar for the next 5 years!
The announcement follows months of negotiation and is a huge boost to the event, to which 300 kitesurfers have already signed up. As part of the deal, Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin group have agreed to cover all costs for the event to ensure every penny raised by participants will be going directly to the charities.
Sir Richard said, ‘I’m passionate about kite surfing and I think this is going to be a fantastic and fun event in support of some great causes, certainly the first of its kind and incredibly positive for the sport. We are delighted to be involved and will be hoping to set a new Guinness World Record by bringing kite surfers together from across the UK to raise money for three fantastic charities – Virgin Unite, Snow-Camp and the RNLI. Virgin are looking forward to entering a team and I am hoping to be there too!’
Dan Charlish, Director of Snow-Camp, said ‘Since we launched this event with Lewis Crathern back in April, we have been overwhelmed by the positive response from the kitesurfing community. To now have the support of a global brand like Virgin is truly amazing and hugely positive for the event and the charities we are trying to support.’
The event takes place this September at Hayling Island, where 250 kitesurfers will need to successfully complete a one mile course to set the new World Record. Participants will then head off down the coast on their 46 mile journey towards Lancing, checking in at Pagham and Littlehampton along the way.
To find out more about the event or make a donation please visit: http://www.kitesurfingarmada.com
