A Kaleidoscope of Kites: The Mauritius C Kite Festival Returns

The C Kite Festival in Mauritius brought a kaleidoscope of colors to the sky, attracting kite surfing enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival included high-speed kitesurfing competitions, expert demonstrations, and non-stop daytime and evening activities. A star-studded lineup of professionals and VIP guests attended the festival, and riders of all skill levels participated in thrilling competitions, showcasing their creativity and athleticism. The event’s inclusivity and electrifying atmosphere made it an unforgettable experience for all who attended.

A Colorful Canvas in the Sky

For the second consecutive year, the C Kite Festival brought a spectacular array of colors to the skies of Mauritius, turning the Indian Ocean into a vibrant masterpiece. The event, a collaboration between the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) and Air Mauritius, attracted kite surfing enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. Over the past three decades, kitesurfing has gained immense popularity as a thrilling water sport that combines speed, balance, and adrenaline, creating a mesmerizing display of skill and determination.

The C Kite Festival took place from the 14th to the 16th of July, offering a full program of high-speed kitesurfing competitions, expert demonstrations, and non-stop daytime and evening activities. When it comes to organizing such an event, the old saying “Location, location, location” holds true, and C Mauritius is second to none in this regard. The resort, situated on the east coast of Mauritius, overlooks the beautiful Palmar Beach, providing an unbeatable backdrop for immersing in island life and witnessing the daring feats of kitesurfing.

A Star-Studded Lineup

Leading the festival was Antoine Auriol, a television director, host, onboard reporter for the 2023 Ocean Race, and former kitesurf world champion. Hailing from eastern France, Antoine discovered his passion for wind and kite surfing at the young age of fifteen. These water sports perfectly suited his adventurous spirit, combining elements of his previous disciplines, such as trampoline aerial rotations, the power and style of artistic gymnastics, and a deep understanding of wind and sea.

Antoine was joined by an impressive roster of professionals, including two-time world champion Youri Zoon, pro kiteboarder Victor Hays, French champion and Big Air pro Paul Serin, two-time vice world champion Tom Hebert, Big Air 9.0 best score holder and multiple-medal-winning Israeli champion Hay Katz, and reigning freestyle kitesurfing world champion and two-time European champion Arthur Guillebert.

An extraordinary lineup of VIP guests also attended the festival, such as Yarden Sax, an international saxophonist, DJ, and music producer; Thomas Frake, the UK’s MasterChef Champion of 2020; Soufiane Hamaini, an international kite surfer ranked 4th worldwide, the first Arab athlete in the world championship and founder of the Moroccan Association of Kite Surfing and owner of Dakla Spirit kite school; and Alice Le Moigne, a kitesurfer with numerous world titles to her name.

Thrilling Competitions and Inclusivity

On the second day of the C Kite Fest, riders of all skill levels embarked on a journey from Palmar to Lafayette Beach, fully embracing the wind’s whims and filling the sky above the glistening Indian Ocean with a ballet of kites. The event’s beauty lies in its inclusivity, welcoming anyone with a desire to participate in this electrifying experience.

The final day featured the Big Air and Best Trick competitions, judged by a panel of professional riders. The Best Air event celebrated gravity-defying acts, with athletes striving for maximum height in each move, while the Best Trick event showcased the riders’ creativity as they performed a variety of rolls, spins, jumps, loops, and toeside tricks, captivating the audience.

As the unforgettable memories of this extraordinary event remain etched in the hearts of all who attended, the C Kite Festival stands as a beacon of anticipation, eagerly awaited for its annual return.

1. What is the C Kite Festival in Mauritius?

The C Kite Festival in Mauritius is an annual event that attracts kite surfing enthusiasts from all over the world. It includes high-speed kitesurfing competitions, expert demonstrations, and non-stop daytime and evening activities. It offers an inclusive and electrifying atmosphere that makes it an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

2. When does the C Kite Festival take place?

The C Kite Festival takes place from the 14th to the 16th of July.

3. Who attends the C Kite Festival?

The C Kite Festival is attended by a star-studded lineup of professionals and VIP guests, including world champions, pro kiteboarders, musicians, chefs, and more. Riders of all skill levels also participate in thrilling competitions, showcasing their creativity and athleticism.

4. What competitions are held at the C Kite Festival?

The C Kite Festival holds high-speed kitesurfing competitions, Big Air and Best Trick events. The Best Air event celebrates gravity-defying acts, while the Best Trick event showcases the riders’ creativity as they perform a variety of rolls, spins, jumps, loops, and toeside tricks.

5. What makes the C Kite Festival unique?

The C Kite Festival is unique for its inclusivity, welcoming anyone with a desire to participate in this electrifying experience. It offers an unbeatable location on the east coast of Mauritius, providing an excellent backdrop for immersing in island life and witnessing the daring feats of kitesurfing.