Raglan hosts Hyundai Kiteboarding Nationals

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Hyundai sponsored kiteboarder Shayne Bright

20 March 2006
Immediate Release

Raglan hosts Hyundai Kiteboarding Nationals

The thrill and challenge of kiteboarding comes to Raglan in late April with the Hyundai Kiteboarding Nationals. After the overwhelming success in Christchurch last year, organisers have decided to give the North Island a shot at hosting the event.

Raglan Harbour on the Waikato’s west coast is the venue, and is ideally suited to showcasing the new sport to enthusiastic spectators, said organiser Delphine Ducaruge.

“With its surfing culture already a part of life in Raglan, it is the perfect venue and lends itself well to spectators watching from the beach,” she said. The event will be held off the harbour beach from April 28 to 30th.

Proximity to the beach and solid westerly winds mean spectators will be able to witness some breath taking displays of acrobatics and skills, said Ducaruge.

This year she expects over 100 contenders at the Nationals, including high profile stars such as well known windsurfer and now kitesurfer Barbara Kendall.

Three time world champion and Nelson resident Cindy Mosey is also likely to be participating in a much strengthened contingent of woman riders, said Delphine Ducaruge.

While the competitions themselves are serious, Ducaruge said the emphasis is for spectators and competitors alike to have a fun time, enjoying the numerous activities planned over the event’s duration.

“We have borrowed from the rule they have in Australia – no whinging or you are disqualified!”

This is the second year Hyundai New Zealand has sponsored the event, and the company anticipates a significant growth in interest after last year’s successful competition in Christchurch.

“It makes a lot of sense for our company to promote an event like this. Our SUV vehicles such as Terracan, Santa Fe and Tucson fit with an active, go-anywhere lifestyle, and appeal to people who enjoy activities like kiteboarding,” said Hyundai Brand Manager Quentin Drain.

Kitesurfing is one of several sporting events Hyundai sponsor.

Locally the company backs Olympic gold medallist Hamish Carter, world champion mountain biker Scarlett Hagen, Black Cap Nathan Astle and a host of other organisations including NZ Surfing, NZ Soccer, Soccer Knights and the Millennium Institute.

ENDS

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