Kiteboard Tour Asia (KTA) will host an invitation-only event this year at regatta. There will be 20 riders are expected to take part in this exhibition event with a roster made up of a mix of talented Asian kiteboarders and international pro riders from the World Tour.

Among those invited is the two-time Asian champion from Thailand, Narapichit “Yo” Pudla then the two-time Asia Freestyle/Race Championship, Aya Oshima followed by the two-time Japanese Freestyle champion, Ken Nacor. Pilippines champion and Asia number two: 2008 Olympics windsurfing silver medallist Ho Chi Ho from Hongkong, Turkish KTA Champion Taner Aykurt and Kathryn Bogwardt of 2010 and 2011 KTA Ladies champion.

The sport already has a strong following in parts of Thailand; Hua Hin has played host to the international tour for the last two seasons, and Pranburi is the venue for the Thailand stop on the Kiteboard Tour Asia.

Willy Kerr, KTA tour director, said, “This year’s Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will feature a thrilling KTA race event which will be a unique addition to the Phuket King’s Cup.

“There is a growing interest in the sport across much of Southeast Asia and we’re very excited to be able to bring this spectacle to people who may not be familiar with the stylish, cool fun of the professional kiteboarding scene.”

Kevin Whitcraft, president of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organising Committee, added, “We’re delighted to welcome an exhibition event by KTA at this year’s Phuket King’s Cup.

“This is a bold step for us in terms of broadening the Regatta and we hope this new element will appeal strongly to kiteboarding enthusiasts and a younger sailing audience.

The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is now in its 25th year, after first sailing in 1987 to celebrate His Majesty the King of Thailand’s 60th birthday.

With the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King, the Regatta is organised by the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organising Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, and in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the province of Phuket.

News by The Phuket News