The 2nd Annual Maui Kite Fest was a massive success bringing together 69 riders from across the globe who shared their stoke for the sport in what has now become the premier Kitesurfing event on Maui
This year the Maui Kite Fest reached a whole new level by bringing the RedBull King of the Air back to it’s original birthplace, granting a Wildcard to the winner of the Extreme Big Air to compete in the 2020 RedBull King of the Air in Capetown, South Africa.
The first day of the event kicked off in full swing with insane conditions averaging between 28 to 40 knots which were the perfect arena to run the Extreme Big Air Discipline.
The battle was tight between the four top riders, however it was South Africa’s Stuart Downey who flew all the way in from Capetown to claim his title and take home the coveted Wildcard to compete in the 2020 KOTA. On the podium ranking Downey was closely followed by Vetea Boersma, then Thomas Aguirre coming to a close 3rd and Corey Folz on 4th.
The colors and spirit that pervaded during the 2nd Annual Maui Kite Fest shown from above.
The event kicked off with a traditional Hawaiian blessings capturing the true meaning of ALOHA. The literal meaning of aloha is "the presence of breath" or "the breath of life." It comes from "Alo," meaning presence, front and face, and "ha," meaning breath. Aloha is a way of living and treating each other with love and respect. Its deep meaning starts by teaching ourselves to love our own beings first and afterwards to spread the love to others.
And the spirit of Aloha was definitely present at the 2nd annual Maui Kite Fest.
Along with the Extreme Big Air Discipline, the Maui Kite Fest brought back other exciting disciplines such as Racing, Foil, Grom and Women’s divisions, so there was fun to be had for all kiters alike.
Make sure to follow us on IG @mauikitefest and #mauifitefest2019 for all event photos. Also like our FB Page to stay up to date for what´s to come in 2020.
HAWAII WILDLIFE FUND
The Maui Kite Fest is dedicated to protect and give back to the Ocean - our playground and our home. This year our Beach Clean Up was led by Hawaii Wildlife Fund who supported us in collecting plastics and microplastics accumulated on the beach.
The event wrapped up with a traditional Luau where all competitors had a chance to talk story and share their personal highlights of the event.
Followed by the Luau was the Awards Ceremony where the top 3 finishers of every discipline took the podium and were showered with aloha and stoked with prizes from all event sponsors.
For Official Results on all Disciplines visit: www.mauikitefest.com