Wind Futures Introduces Young People to Kitesurfing
Mon 15th Jun, 2026 @ 12:00 pm
Wind Futures Introduces 12 Young People to Kitesurfing Through Thanet Pilot Programme.
Twelve young people from Thanet, Whitstable and Canterbury have taken part in the first phase of Wind Futures, a new youth kitesurfing initiative aimed at increasing access to outdoor sport and watersports opportunities for young people across East Kent.
The programme, delivered by East Kent Kitesurfing Community (EKKC) with support from Vattenfall community funding, recently completed two introductory kitesurfing taster sessions at Minnis Bay and Ramsgate.
The first session welcomed nine participants, who rotated through practical activity stations covering kite setup, launch and landing safety, wind awareness, weather conditions, kite rigging and beach-based kite control. A second session in Ramsgate provided a smaller group with further hands-on experience in favourable wind and weather conditions.
Many participants had previous experience in outdoor and watersports activities including sailing, rowing, paddleboarding, surfing and wing foiling, but for most it was their first introduction to kitesurfing.
The group reflected a wide range of interests and backgrounds, including Sea Cadets, Air Cadets, Sea Scouts, RNLI lifeguards, martial artists, skaters, horse riders, parkour athletes and snowboarders.
The initiative was developed in response to the significant financial barriers often associated with kitesurfing, where professional lessons and equipment costs can prevent many young people from accessing the sport.
Following the taster sessions, six participants will now progress into fully funded professional kitesurfing lessons as part of the pilot programme.
Chris Joy of East Kent Kitesurfing Community said:
“The response has exceeded our expectations. We received strong interest from young people across East Kent and have been incredibly impressed by the enthusiasm and engagement shown throughout the programme.
Kitesurfing is an amazing sport that combines physical activity, problem-solving, confidence building and a connection with the natural environment. Through Wind Futures we’re trying to create opportunities that may not otherwise be available to many young people.”
Organisers hope to secure additional funding to expand the programme and provide lesson opportunities for more young people in future rounds.
The programme forms part of wider efforts to encourage outdoor activity, develop water confidence and promote positive engagement with Kent’s coastline.
Mon 15th Jun, 2026 @ 12:00 pm
