The first ever Australian Sailing Kitefoil Launch Camp took place in December at Largs Bay Sailing Club - with a packed course of 12 participants diving into the new class. 

Participants had a variation of experience, with some coming from sailing backgrounds and others from windsurfing and kitesurfing - all with the shared goal of learning to foil and maybe even leading a kite-foil race someday!  As the first of its kind camp run here in Australia, it was a steep learning curve for all involved including AS Kitefoil Pathway Co-ordinator Ryan Palk who ran the camp along with Ride Kitesurfing Head Instructor Matt Stringer.  

Ryan spoke about the camp "I am super happy to see so many people keen to take on the challenge of kitefoiling. This is not an easy class to learn, and I was so impressed at the rate of progression that the group showed, and also the the way they all interacted to learn and get better, together. I feel like we all learnt a lot about how to progress, and I already have some new ideas on how to optimise this program going forward thanks to this group. Getting the new theory and curriculum out after months of preparation and refining has been an awesome experience and I can’t wait to roll these camps out in more locations around Australia". 

With the class being a team sport at the Olympics, it is important to have the sailors learn how to work in teams from the get go.  As such, the camps are setup to encourage teamwork and support, to maximise progression. "Teamwork is really meant to set the tone for the camp and the class. I think I am most impressed at everyone’s ability to ensure that feeling of progressing together was kept at the fore the entire time".

Ian Leeson, South Australian Regional Manager said "It was really cool to see a lot of exisiting kiters and sailors wanting to get involved in racing and get into foiling. As a new class and pathway option, its exciting to have it developing here in South Australia and we can’t wait to see more people getting involved!".

Whether you are just curious about the sport, or wanting to fully dive in, a Launch Camp may be the best way for you to find your feet in the class and learn the keys to progression in a friendly and fun format. Kite experience is recommended, and if you need a lesson, it is recommended you attend a dedicated Kiteboarding Australia school - you can find one near you here.