The time of the year has almost arrived when the sky above the Indian Ocean undergoes a breathtaking transformation into a mesmerising display of vibrant colours. The C Kite Festival is making its grand return to Mauritius.
Set to take place from 14 to 16 July, and hosted in collaboration with the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) and Air Mauritius, this event will take place at the lively C Mauritius resort, gathering professional kite surfers from all corners of the globe.
The Cape {town} Etc team will be covering the event, representing a city where the dynamic kitesurfing scene thrives against the backdrop of iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and the stunning coastline, where local riders, as well as international professionals, flock to the city to experience the exhilaration of its legendary kitesurfing spots, such as Bloubergstrand and Langebaan.
Also read: Look! A rainbow of kitesurfers fills the sky in Table View
Over the past three decades, kitesurfing has emerged as one of the most popular water sports globally, blending speed, balance and a hint of adrenaline into a thrilling spectacle of skill and resilience.
The annual C Kite Festival treats attendees to a dazzling combination of high-speed kitesurfing competitions, expert demonstrations and an array of non-stop daytime and evening activities. The C Kite Festival is more than just a sporting event; it embodies the spirit of kite artistry that has been sweeping across the world.
This year’s C Kite Festival is not just hosted by any ordinary team, featuring Antoine Auriol, a former kitesurf world champion, TV host and onboard reporter for the 2023 Ocean Race. With Auriol leading the way, participants are promised an immersive experience that dives headfirst into the exhilarating world of kitesurfing.
The festival will also treat attendees to live demonstrations by the world’s top kite surfers, providing a feast for the eyes.
Among the stellar lineup of professionals headlining this year’s festival are: Youri Zoon, a two-time world champion and two-time world vice-champion sponsored by Brunotti; Victor Hays, a pro kiteboarder; Paul Serin, the French champion and Big Air pro; Tom Hebert, a two-time vice world champion; Hay Katz, holder of the 9.0 best score in the ‘big air’ category and a three-time silver and two-time bronze Israel champion; and Arthur Guillebert, the reigning freestyle kite surfing world champion and two-time European champion.
Furthermore, the C Kite Festival is delighted to welcome an impressive roster of VIP guests, including Yarden Sax, an international saxophonist, DJ and music producer from Tel Aviv; Thomas Frake, the UK’s MasterChef Champion of 2020; Soufiane Hamaini, an international kite surfer ranked 4th overall in the world and the first Arab athlete to participate in the world championship, as well as the founder of the Moroccan Association of Kite Surfing and owner of Dakla Spirit kite school; and Alice Le Moigne, a kite surfer who holds the titles of World Longboard Champion ISA (International Surfing Association) and Vice World Champion WSL (World Surf League).
While Mauritius is renowned for its kitesurfing offerings, it also boasts a superb ambience that provides a modern lifestyle experience amid breathtaking natural surroundings. As a testament to its excellence, the property has recently been honoured with the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2023, solidifying its position as one of Africa’s premier all-inclusive resorts.
Just like a mesmerising sunset that brings a perfect day to a close, the C Kite Festival will conclude each day with exceptional evening entertainment, including heart-thumping concerts and superb dining experiences.
Also read:
A lekker list of things to do in Langebaan, the “Jewel of the West Coast”
Picture: Supplied