Kitesurfing Speed Demons Break Velocity Record

Sebastien Cattelan of France broke the kitesurfing world speed record, and the magic 50kts barrier, by achieving a velocity of 50.26 knots (93kph) at the Lüderitz Speed Challenge in Namibia last month.

Cattelan was well placed to break the previous record of 49.84 kts, set by Robert Douglas of the USA, as he was one of the founders of speed kitesurfing and actually helped establish the speed strip at Lüderitz. Such speeds can be achieved at this unique location due to strong area winds being funnelled and accelerated down a shallow valley onto the lagoon’s smooth stretch of water.

Cattlean’s celebrations where however somewhat short-lived as his record was beaten a day later by fellow countryman Alexandre Caizergues, who reached a top speed of 50.57 knots (93.65kph).

The WSSRC is yet to ratify these new records as official sailing records due the fact there is some contention over the total speed of the kite and kitesurfer over the 500m distance. It is possible for the kitesurfer to pick up speed as he or she tracks the board away from the kite and so the kitesurfer can temporarily reach speeds higher than that of the kite. It is an issue that has caused problems previously but we will wait to hear the outcome from the WSSRC.

For the latest information visit www.sailspeedrecords.com