KSP finds title sponsor in Cabrinha

The KSP announced this week that Cabrinha Kites will be the official title sponsor for the 2013 World Championship event at Ho’okipa Beach Park, Maui. The Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Maui will take place from November 22 to December 1, boasting a stellar list of world class riders who will battle it out to claim the coveted kite surfing World Championship Title.

Pete Cabrinha of Cabrinha Kites notes, “We are extremely proud to host a World Championship Title event here at Hookipa, Maui. Maui is the birthplace of the Cabrinha brand and Hookipa is an iconic spot in the world of wind and surf sports. This will be the premier kitesurfing event of the year.“

Nicholas Thiede, KSP Tour Manager states: “We are excited to have Cabrinha so deeply involved in the event and are grateful for their support. The Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro will be a true spectacle and we are very much looking forward to the breathtaking action.”

The Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro will hold a Qualification Round to determine who will join the world’s best in the World Championship event, the World Championship event itself, a Legends Heat with some of kiteboardings true heroes, the Xensr Big Air Invitational, and the Kama’aina Throw down for Maui residents.

Riders interested in competing in the Qualification Round or the Kama’aina Throw Down must sign up online or at Adventure Sports Maui. 
For further info and to pre-register visit the KSP website.

Alex Neto in Sicily

Alex Neto and I decided to stay in Sicily Italy for a while after the PKRA event this summer to shoot before heading to Germany.

Red Bull Megaloop Challenge 2013

Red Bull Megaloop Challenge 2013 at the Spot in Zandvoort, october 27. Featuring 16 of most extreme kiteboarders of the Netherlands.

Common Illnesses that Affect Water Sport Enthusiasts

Some of the world’s oceans, lakes, rivers, and beaches can be quite dirty due to pollution, water contamination, and litter and debris. Within the last five years, 18,000 beaches within the U.S. were closed because of pollution, and, in 2009, there were 18,682 days of closures and notices as a result of water contamination at beaches throughout the United States. As surfers and lovers of the water, we spend a significant amount of time in the water and on the beaches, exposing us to a number of viruses, bacteria, and parasites that can carry a range of diseases.

Swimmers and surfers are often affected by skin, eye, ear, feet, and respiratory problems while partaking in water sports. From large scale illnesses like Staph infections to miner annoyances such as swimmer’s ear,those who enjoy playing in the water can catch many different diseases. While you sh
ouldn’t jump out of the water and end your fun at sea just yet, you should still be cautious when you venture out. Make sure you choose your surfing spot carefully, picking an area where the sand and water undergo regular analysis by sanitary officials. In addition, read up on the most common diseases you can contract at the beach or in the ocean before you get in the water.

Hepatitis

Many beaches are polluted with blood and syringes and the improper disposal of red and hazardous wastes spread a variety of diseases. Hepatitis is major problem for water sport participants. Although not much can be done to prevent the unsuitable disposal of needles or the spread of Hepatitis through our beaches and waters, you can still avoid catching this disease. Make sure that you find out as much information about the area where you plan to play before you go, paying close attention to details surrounding drug abuse in the area.

Enteric Bacteria

Transmitted by storm water and sewage run-off, enteric bacteria are created when beaches become contaminated with fecal pollution known as enterococci. Once in your system, this bacterium contaminates the intestinal tracts and causes gastroenteritis, which can have life threatening consequences. Again, protect yourself by investigating the area before you head out.

Legionnaire’s Disease

This respiratory illness grows is a form of pneumonia that grows in warm waters. Swimmers contract it by inhaling mist or vapor contaminated with the bacteria. Symptoms include a high fever, muscle aches, and coughing.

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Typically known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is one of the most frequently spread eye infections and is normally contracted in water. Contact lens wearers especially must be vigilant when spending time at the beach or in the water. Before you head to the shore, learn how you can protect your eyes from pink eye and other eye conditions at Acuvue.

Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)

This is an infection that is quite common among active water athletes during the summer and in humid environments. Swimmer’s ear affects the external auditory ear canal and is the result of the skin’s inability to act as a barrier in the canal. Although it’s irritating, swimmer’s ear can easily be remedied with over-the-counter medications. To prevent swimmer’s ear, invest in a pair of Mack’s AquaBlock ear plugs to wear while you’re in the water.

[font kitemovement.com]

Fastest Sailor in the World! Rob Douglas "interview"

An in depth look at what it took to break the outright world speed sailing record! 
Rob Douglas is currently the fastest sailor in the world. The training, his world record run and more...