Cape Town‘s iconic Kite Beach in Table View is set to host the 12th annual Red Bull King of the Air event in 2024. This year, the prestigious competition introduces a game-changing addition: an official Women’s Division, marking a groundbreaking evolution in the world of Big Air kiteboarding. With the world’s top kiteboarders converging on South Africa’s shores, the competition promises thrilling displays of skill, style, and towering heights.
History and Significance of the Event
Red Bull King of the Air originated in Hawaii in the early 2000s before finding its long-term home in Cape Town in 2013. Since then, it has become the pinnacle of Big Air kiteboarding, drawing elite talent to push the limits of the sport. Riders compete to soar higher, perform complex tricks, and demonstrate unmatched style—all in pursuit of the prestigious title of King (and now Queen) of the Air.
Kite Beach in Table View provides the perfect conditions for riders, with its strong Southeasterly wind, known locally as the “Cape Doctor,” and reliable Westerly swells that create ideal launching ramps. This unique setting has made Cape Town the global epicenter of Big Air kiteboarding, where athletes can consistently push the boundaries of amplitude, variety, and execution.
Judging Criteria
In both the Open and Women’s Divisions, riders are judged based on the height of their jumps, the variety and technical difficulty of their tricks, and their overall style. These elements are crucial for securing high scores, and athletes bring a mix of creativity and control as they go head-to-head in this extreme spectacle.
2024 Open Division Riders
The Open Division roster is packed with top talent from across the globe, with riders from countries like South Africa, the USA, France, and the Netherlands. Notable names include:
- Zac Adams (USA)
- Jeremy Burlando (Spain)
- Charles Brodel (France)
- Lorenzo Casati (Italy)
- Luca Ceruti (South Africa)
- Josue San Ferreira (Brazil)
- Josh Gillitt (South Africa)
- Lucas Gramstrup (Denmark)
- Clement Huot (France)
- Marc Jacobs (Australia)
- Stijn Mul (Netherlands)
- Jamie Overbeek (Netherlands)
- Andrea Principi (Italy)
- Parker Sage (USA)
- Edgar Ulrich (France)
- Jason Van Der Spuy (South Africa)
- Cohan van Dijk (Netherlands)
- Giel Vlugt (Netherlands)
These athletes are known for pushing their limits with breathtaking aerial tricks, and their experience and ambition ensure a fierce battle for the title.
2024 Women’s Division Riders
The introduction of the Women’s Division has added an exciting new dynamic to the competition. Six talented women from diverse backgrounds will compete for the inaugural title:
- Angely Bouillot (France)
- Jasmine Cho (USA)
- Zara Hoogenraad (Netherlands)
- Nathalie Lambrecht (Sweden)
- Francesca Maini (USA)
- Pippa van Lersel (Netherlands)
These riders are trailblazers, taking the sport to new heights and setting a precedent for future female kiteboarders.
A Landmark Year for Big Air Kiteboarding
The addition of the Women’s Division underscores Red Bull King of the Air’s commitment to advancing the sport and creating more inclusive opportunities for riders worldwide. With a thrilling mix of seasoned professionals and fresh faces, this year’s event is set to deliver unforgettable moments, reinforcing Cape Town’s status as a global hotspot for extreme kiteboarding.
Stay tuned as the world’s best kiteboarders prepare to conquer Kite Beach once again, raising the bar for Big Air kiteboarding and paving the way for future generations.
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