High-speed kite foil racers set to inspire this September

Portsmouth is to showcase super-fast kite foil racing in the countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympics when the RYA hosts the 2023 Formula Kite European Championships this September, and local businesses are being urged to get on board.

The world’s best racers from the Olympic circuit will battle it out on the waters off Eastney Beach from 19-24 September. It’s free to attend and the finals will be streamed live globally.

The event is being used as a platform to create connected and inspired communities and build a brighter future for Portsmouth’s youth population through engagement with the water.

Initially, free-to-access curriculum-based and STEM-linked classroom resources will be available for KS2 and KS3 teachers aimed at introducing the event and the science behind the sport to their pupils.

There will also be opportunities for schools and youth organisations in the Portsmouth area to attend the event from Tuesday 19 September to Sunday 24 September 2023. Groups will be able to take part in a specially created Beach Club involving STEM activities and environmental challenges, as well as the opportunity to try out watersports.

Longer-term participation opportunities for schools and youth groups can also be arranged with their Regional Development Officer, leading to potential qualifications and career opportunities in the marine industry.

Event partnership opportunities

The RYA is seeking to involve local businesses and employers in Portsmouth who can help support the event and amplify the societal impact work with local schoolchildren and youth groups so that the event provides a catalyst for lasting change.

Opportunities exist for local businesses to jump on board as event sponsors or suppliers across various sectors. Interested parties are encouraged to get in touch to arrange an exploratory discussion here.