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Thursday 30 December 2010

Wednesday 29 December 2010

Things have come a long way

Who would have thought looking at this guy that the sport would grow to where it is now. People must have thought he was nuts.

Tuesday 28 December 2010

Thursday 23 December 2010

Team Riders Wanted


If you are interested in becoming a BLAST team rider - contact us with your profile/vids/pics. Being a team rider is about spreading the word and being a good abassador for both Blast and the sport, helping to promote our equipment and in return you will receive product discounts and of course get to ride some awesome kit.


The main equipment offered will be either Genetrix Kites or Zeeko Kites plus Blankforce Boards and Mystic etc. But we will also be sponsoring with our other suppliers such as Wainman,Mutiny,Naish and Best.
You don't have to be the best kitesurfer out there.you don't have to be competing either as we are simply looking for super enthusiastic kiters who want to "spread the love"
Only a deep passion for the sport and the equipment is required!

You will find all the BLAST teamriders stoked to help out with advice where ever they can assist.


Email us with your details: info@blastkiteboarding.co.uk



GENETRIX 2011

News very soon on the all new 2011 Genetrix Origin

Monday 20 December 2010

Golf...you gotta love it!

Never played a game of golf in my life but I do appreciate there dedication to the impressively looked after green's especially when they are covered in deep snow!
One of the many Porthcawl Golf Courses!

Sunday 19 December 2010

Brecon Beacons 19th December

A few of us (actually I counted 12) trecked up the Beacons with huge expectations after all the snow we have had in the past. We met at the car park at Storey Arms and spotted a few kites already up on the peak in the clouds.
Unfortunately after the slog up the hill we found there was simply not enough wind. Wenglish tried with his 9.5m HQ foil kite but ....nada!
Still it was a good afternoon out and we did get to snowboard back down!

Check the two kites up in the clouds, click the photo to enlarge!

Saturday 18 December 2010

More snow (but no wind)

Coney Beach 18th December

Woke up to find another dump of the white gold here in South Wales. There was no wind but a nice wave coming in at Rest Bay. Looks like it could be on for tomorrow (Sunday) up the Beacons for a proper snow kite session!

Friday 17 December 2010

Snow Kiting in S.Wales (again)

What a fantastic day we've had today! Woke up too a total white out here in S.Wales and quickly realised the wind was building too. So once we'd loaded the car and slid most of the way to Rest Bay, Porthcawl we quickly set up our 7m Kites and were on it!

We had two sessions and were joined by our good friend Alun J who was on his 5.5m and still well powered up. It looks like we should have a shit load more snow over the w/end so are hoping to get up the Brecon Beacons (if they open the roads)
More to follow!


Tuesday 7 December 2010

Craig Smith Blast Sponsored Rider

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48Grew4FC80
Young Gun Craig Smith in winter training!
Sponsored by Blast,Mutiny,Blankforce & Mystic

First to 55

IKA News:

WSSRC ratifies first ever sailor over 55 knots
The WSSR Council announces the ratification of a new World Record:
Record : World Sailing Speed Record
Venue: Luderitz. Namibia
Name: Sebastien Cattalan. FRA
Equipment: Kitesurf. Xcelerator Custom. Genetrix 9 sqm
Dates: 28th October 2010.
Course length: 501M
Current: Nil
Start time: 13;56;22;01
Finish time: 13;56;39;56
Elapsed time: 17.55 seconds
Speed: 55.49 knots
Comments: Previous record: Alex Caizergues FRA. 54.10 kts, 12th October 2010, Luderitz

Sebastien is the first ever sailor to exceed 55 knots.

As there were a number of subsequent claims on the World Record during the month-long Luderitz speed event, the Council will announce them in chronological order as they are ratified. This will give due recognition to each holder, even though it may have only been for a limited period.

Thursday 2 December 2010

Secondhand Kites

We always have selected Secondhand kites available, please call us for prices/sizes etc!

All Complete with bag/bar/lines etc

Genetrix Origin
1 x 7m as new £525 (provisionly sold)
1 x 9m as new £525
1 x 9m very good condition £425
1 x 11m very good condition a couple of small repairs. £499
http://www.blastkiteboarding.co.uk/index.php?_a=viewCat&catId=41
Blankforce
All in excellent condition!

Fiction 132 x 41 £295
http://www.blastkiteboarding.co.uk/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=108

Fiction 152 x 44 £295
http://www.blastkiteboarding.co.uk/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=110

Ballistic 160 x 44 £299
http://www.blastkiteboarding.co.uk/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=117

Zeeko Notus
1 x 7m professionally repaired £350
1 x 10m professionally repaired £299
http://www.blastkiteboarding.co.uk/index.php?_a=viewCat&catId=42


Brunotti Double 007 135 Mutant board excellent condition £125 call for more details.
We often have other kites/boards for sale please contact us for more options!

Tuesday 30 November 2010

Stay safe this winter!

As winter approaches for surfers of the Northern Hemisphere, some safety procedures should be taken into consideration. It's cold, windy, rainy and snowy so you should protect your body for the physical exercise in extreme conditions.




The Irish Surfing Association has published a very clear and useful guide for the winter surfing sessions. Wave fans should have in mind that their health is first and that doesn't mean they cannot enjoy the quality ocean moments.



Here are the main guidelines for winter time surfing:



a) Do not surf alone or enter the water as dusk is approaching or if you have been drinking alcohol.

b) Warm your body before and after surfing. A good hot chocolate or a tea is perfect.

c) Eat foods that are high in carbohydrates. Fruits, breads and energy bars are a good choice.

d) Always let somebody on land know where you have gone and when you will return. Avoid surfing alone.

e) Check the weather and tides before you paddle out. Learn to observe the ocean so you can identify rips, wind changes and other hazards.

f) If you are unfamiliar with a break check with local surfers or other water users before paddling out.

g) Ensure the waves you are surfing are of a size and power suitable to your ability. Do not get too confident. Stick to beaches until you become experienced.

g) Make sure your equipment, especially your leash is in good order. Remember it is much easier to spot a brightly coloured surfboard or wetsuit at sea in the event of you requiring rescuing. Consider other safety equipment_ nose guard and helmet.

i) When you “wipeout” do not come to the surface too soon and when you do come to the surface protect your head with your arms.

j) If you get caught in a rip do not try to paddle against it, paddle across it.

k) If you find yourself in difficulty stay calm, do not discard your board, wave one are in the air and shout to attract attention. Do not panic, help will come.



Big Enough

Special ropes hold a 160m2 towing kite







SkySails was the first company to understand the advantages of wind technologies in the shipping industry. SurferToday.com has published several articles about the adventure of the Beluga, the first cargo vessel to adopt the towing kite technology.
This unique invention has reduced fuel consumption and emissions of ships by up to 35%. But, as it happens in kitesurfing, there's one critical element that should be adopted correctly: the lines or, in this particular case, the ropes that link the ship to the kite up in the sky.

That's why SkySails has teamed up with DSM Dyneema and Gleistein. They have researched and developed the world̢۪s strongest fiber: Dyneema. This special rope is carefully designed to deliver the high strength, light weight and excellent durability required for heavy duty rope applications.

Snowkiting in South Wales

Looks like we should get pretty good conditions over the next few days for a spot of Snow Kiting. We've been up a few times over the past few days checking the conditions and really hope tomorrow will be the day!

Thursday 25 November 2010

Interview Sebastian Cattelan

Thursday, November 25, 2010
Interview Sebastian Cattelan


Interview taken from the Genetrix website: http://www.genetrixkites.fr/en/home/268-interview-seb-cattelan





Background: Seb “Catman” Cattellan (Genetrix/Xelerator) is both the organizer of the Luderitz Speed Challenge held annually in Luderitz, Namibia and a fearsome competitor in that same event. He shocked the speed world by breaking the 50 knot record in 2008, and wrote his name in the history books again this year by being the first kiter or sailor of any discipline to reach 55 knots over a 500 meter course, while also taking home the French and European records in what has traditionally been a completely French-dominated event.



Only this year, an American (Rob Douglas) was able to snatch the overall record from Seb by 15 hundredths of a knot, bringing the overall record to America for the first time in memory and laying the groundwork for what is certain to become a battle royale between speed sailors from old world and the new in years to come.



- How was your journey to becoming the fastest speed sailor in France and Europe with a record of 55.49 knots over 500m?



Above all it was a result of a strong team around me; I couldn’t have done it without them. It seems obvious to say this but this is probably the biggest part of my performance. The trust and support of my better half, my family, my friends, and my team were all integral. Through their support and faith, from the very beginning I was able to find the strength to keep me going. This was key during this fourth edition of the Speed Challenge, now that the level of competition has increased dramatically.



I clearly recall the run when I broke the world sailing speed record. Despite a bad start, I knew this run was good. When I crossed the finish line in a spray of white water and heard shouting, I knew that this could be potentially great news. At the sight of the display board, Martial Camblong from Genetrix, my kite sponsor jumped on me saying “Bloody hell, you exploded the clock!”



My life flashed by me: the successes and failures in my career since my start in freestyle in 2000, successive battles related to the organization of this completely insane competition in the Namibian desert, where the hard work of the past four years paid off.



The thing to understand is that being able to set records like this is the culmination of so much effort! It's tough to explain...



Even assuming Rob Douglas ends up with the official world record with 55.65, getting my records was a great moment for me. I believe my tenacity in facing what was at stake allowed me to combine my athletic and organizing abilities. Wearing two hats in moments like this is physically and mentally challenging, but I managed to do it.



One may ask why am I crazy enough to both organize the event and compete in it. I would say that I’m fortunate to do both! The speed canal that I dug is my baby ... it is hard to imagine but each angle of the run has to be positioned exactly, every detail is considered, so all my years of experience have really helped in its realization. Finally, I compete because this is why I am here, still taking part despite my seniority. I'm still trying to improve and pass down the knowledge I have learned. It is my reason to live. It's not a job, it's a passion that never dies ...



- What changes have you made this year regarding your fitness and training as well as your equipment?





This is the first time that I used a physical trainer in my preparation. Thanks to a customized training program from this Olympic coach, it boosted my potential. He also worked on my diet, and gave me a nutritional regimen for before, during and after intense physical effort in a competition like this one.



My progression also benefited from having coached Sophie in speed kiting for months. Finally, an intense and regular interaction with Martial ultimately paid off. Having worked extensively on research and development, the 9m Genetrix Hydra revealed itself to be the ultimate weapon for me. Very difficult to do better.



Board-wise, the South African brand Xelerator intensifies its development by participating frequently in the speed event, to better understand the needs of this discipline.



- You were the world record holder for a brief period before Rob Douglas during that epic day when both of you crossed the 55 knot barrier. What was your first reaction when you realized you'd just given him your first place?



"It's the law of the jungle, except that I am a cat and a cat has nine lives..."



- You're a competitor and organizer. Your point of view?



The fact that I am also a competitor is a weakness for me and that I am also the organizer is a strength for the other competitors.





- What has been most striking in the 2010 edition of the Speed Challenge?



The smiles on the competitors’ faces when they see their extraordinary times on the results board. It is my reward.



- The windsurfers were invited to the party this year -- what is your assessment of the outcome for them?



It was the first time we tried to be constructive together to try to develop valid competitive conditions for them. It made me think of our transition 2007-2008 where we had changed the run for the first time. We deduced certain things and avoided some problems for windsurfers. I have tried hard to integrate their needs into the competition so that many possibilities are open to them. I think that windsurfers can go faster than kiters. They simply need an appropriate playground.



- As an organizer, how did you get to come up with a run of 500 meters capable of recording average speeds of over 100 km / h?



I did countless tests with my GPS to learn in detail the necessary elements while taking into account various criteria. You have to take into consideration biology, currents, tides, weather and the fact that our competition was held in a natural reserve. A Namibian headache! Yet, there were still a few disgruntled people who did not realize the magnitude of the accomplishment in simply hosting an event like this. To them I say: never bite the hand that feeds you.



- You promised 50 knots in 2008. It happened. You have predicted the 100 km / h for this year. Four competitors (including yourself) made it. What can we expect next, is 60 knots possible?



I am proud to have lent credibility to my event by giving riders a chance to prove themselves.



Until now, the best ever recorded top speed on GPS is 62 knots (see www.gps-kitesurfing.com). (I set this record using the Genetrix Hydra). On a run like this year’s, with that kind of top speed, an average of 60 knots in the 500m is achievable, but for that I still think there will need to be a step up in the development of the gear and a tweaking of the run.



- Any final words?



To all readers ...:



Before turning the page, be sure you have retained enough information to be able to impress at your next dinner party with all the knowledge about the quest for the 100 km / h!

Tuesday 23 November 2010

Snow Forecast

So it looks (and feels) like winter really is here now with the temperature's dropping rapidly in the past week or so.
Now the long range forecasts show likely snow for the coming weekend....and wind.
Could this be our 1st Snowkite session for the winter.
The photo above was Marc last season up in the Brecon Beacons

Monday 22 November 2010

Friday 19 November 2010

New Genetrix Rider


Taro Niehaus alias Litey, South African rider joined the team Genetrix. Veteran freestyler, he has also excelled during the Luderitz Speed Challenge 2010, achieving the eighth fastest time with 50.62 knots.
We at Blast have personally known Litey for many years and super stoked to see him join Genetrix Kites!

Thursday 18 November 2010

New Team Rider

Blast Kiteboarding would like to welcome new Team Rider
CRAIG SMITH



Sponsors : Mutiny Blankforce Mystic Blast
Age: 19
D.O.B: 09/06/91
Lives: Newquay, Cornwall
Local Spots: Perranporth, The Bluff Marazion (Anywhere in Cornwall really ha) S.Wales

I have been involved in kites for as long as I can remember, from the days where I used to fly a 1 line Thomas the tank engine kite to now, competing on the National Amateur Circuit. I have ridden in many different places, mainly in the UK but also a few around the globe as well, places such as Egypt, Fuerteventura, Devon, the east coast & west coast wales, you name it I have most probably kited pretty close.

http://www.blastkiteboarding.co.uk/index.php?_a=viewDoc&docId=7

Monday 15 November 2010

Genetrix What Next?

Kitesurf is the new buzz in Extreme Sports

Taken from http://www.workoninternet.com/

Kitesurfing is the new buzz in extreme water sports. It is a hybrid sport that combines kiting and surfing for the adrenalin junkies. Kitesurfing is already popular in well known beaches around the world. Thrill seekers can enoy the technical and dangerous manoeuvres of kitesurfing while splitting through ocean waves at high speeds guided by the gusty winds. This sport includes such manoeuvres as wakestyling, freestyling, waveriding, jumping, cruising and freeriding.
For such dangerous extreme sport like kitesurfing, safety becomes an obvious concern.
Here, we will learn about the kitesurfing gear that is mandatory for a thrilling yet safe ride.



Kitesurfing equipment:



Kitesurfing is an extreme sport and like any other has specialized kitesurfing or kitesurfing equipment that are considered mandatory for maximum safety as well as excitement.
1. Kites – this is the main source of flight and control and is available in 2 varieties,
a. Leading edge inflatable kites - also known as inflatables, LEI kites or C-kites, are the most popular and typically made from ripstop nylon with an inflatable plastic bladder, which give the kite its shape and also keeps the kite floating in the water. LEI’s show a quick and direct response to the rider's manoeuvre
b. Foil kites – These are arc shaped, similar to a paraglider, and are mostly made of ripstop nylon fabric with air pockets that gives it lift and a fixed bridle to maintain the kite's shape. The foil kites main advantage over LEIs is that they don’t have manually inflatable bladder, which saves time.

2. Flying lines – are made with ultra high molecular weight polyethylene These lines connect the rider’s control bar to the kite and hence are core equipment. Most kites use 4 or 5 lines.

3. Control bar – is a light weight compound metal bar that is attached to the rider’s end of flying lines. It is used to control the kite by pulling at its ends that causes the kite to manoeuvre clockwise or counter-clockwise.

4. Kite harness – is connected to the rider’s control bar. The harness takes most of the kite’s pull off the rider’s shoulders while surfing and allows the rider to do jumps and other tricks while remaining attached to the kite via the control bar.

5. Kiteboard – is a small light weight board made of a composite material or wood or foam. The rider’s feet can be firmly strapped on to this board for surfing. There are directional surf-style boards, wakeboard-style boards and skim-type boards.

6. Wetsuit – is a part of the protective gear worn by the kitesurfers which aides in reducing the body loss of heat whiles surfing.

7. Safety hook knife – a corrosion resistant stainless-steel blade that can be used in emergency situations such as failure of the kite’s safety release system or to cut entangled or snagged kite lines.

8. Helmet – an obvious compulsory kitesurfing equipment to protect the kitesurfer from any head trauma in case of any mishap

Sunday 14 November 2010

New Blast Kiteboarding Team Rider

Tom Butler















We are super stoked to announce that Blast Kiteboarding has just signed Tom with Mystic gear plus other kit.
Tom will be continuing his work with Mutiny Kites in 2011 as one of there main team riders plus he will be helping with instructing with us in our Blast Kitesurf School and generally showing off his skills, boosting some mega loops at a beach near you.





Tom spreading the Mutiny Love!

TEST BANNERS....












Blast Kteboarding recently had another day with the guys from Bristol University Kitesurf Club at Aberavon Beach. Sadly there was no wind however as we had Tom Butler helping us he was able to give a chat all about Mutiny Kites to the students.
Once the talk was over we headed down onto the beach torun over Pack Down's, Emergency Self Rescue technique etc.
Then in the afternoon we had a back up plan with SUP's, and surfboards as thankfully although the winds were non existant the surf was super glassy and a couple of feet....great for the 1st timers.