Thousands brave winds at festival

An extreme sports festival could be winging its way back to Swansea for a second year. Organisers of Kiteival say the three day bash has been a big success, with 8,000 curious spectators turning out to watch high flying competitors. Event co-ordinator Steve Parrot said he hoped to convince Swansea Council in the coming weeks to make the event a regular fixture on the city’s calendar.

“I always maintained that Swansea was the perfect location for this kind of event. “And it didn’t disappoint.”

Three adrenalin-pimping sports were on display on the beach behind the the Civic Centre – Kite Surfing, Kite Boarding and Land Buggying. Competitors were given plenty of lift, with very windy conditions from Friday onwards.

“The wind speeds topped 40mph at one stage, which was perfect for the sport.”

He added that he was particularly impressed by the reaction from the public. “ In the long term, I’m certain that Swansea will produce a world champion because of the great facilities the city has for kite surfing.”

Kite wave surfing champion Kirsty Jones of Llandeilo, went along as a spectator and was duly impressed. She said: “I’ve competed in Hawaii and across the globe, but to have this event close to home was special. A Swansea Council spokesman said added: “ We are delighted with the success of Kiteival.”

Source: South Wales Evening Post 18.05.09