Crathern, from Worthing in the UK, went up against Sam Light (UK), Rick Jensen (GER) and Gianni Aragno (ESP) in the final. “I was just stoked to have been in the final with some of my mates. A megaloop isn’t the easiest trick because you have to try and get height while trying to get your kite as horizontal as possible. I’ve been coming to Capetown to kiteboard for the last six years and I love it here. The people are friendly and the weather and wind conditions are perfect here.”

Final Podium. Photo Craig Koleski, Left to Right, Sam Light, Lewis Crathern, Gianni Aragno, Rick Jensen.

The LEN10 Megaloop Challenge saw 24 participants compete in a format new to kiteboarding competitions. Ruben Lenten extreme kiteboarder and brains behind the event remarked: “All the riders and spectators were excited about the format which gives the guys time to pull their best moves and score high. I’m happy that such a big crowd came down to see the guys pull some gnarly tricks and see some pretty epic wipeouts too – which is just as much part of kiteboarding as landing the trick.”

Participants were scored on the height, technique and the style in which they executed the megaloop with.

LEN10 Megaloop Challenge winner, Crathern and the other finalists had decided before they went out for the final to split the prize money – it wasn’t about the prize but rather spending a good day out doing what they love. He does, however, walk away with a one-of-a-kind trophy and a photo shoot with renowned South African action sports photographer, Craig Kolesky.

Crathern, always keen to push the Eco Values of the sport added. “This is the 21st century where we all know the importance of looking after the environment we live in. New sports like kitesurfing are a testimony to this because as humans we must find more ways to live more sustainably. Back home in Worthing my hometown, we are fighting against further pollution to our beaches. I hope with this victory I can raise awareness to this situation.

Crathern In Action during the Competition: Photo Chris Willmott Windmachine

Crathern Training in South Africa, Photo Chris Willmott Windmachine

2012 Slingshot Snowkite Demos

Feb 3rd-5th U.S. Open Snowkite Masters – Skyline, Utah
email: info@windzup.com ph: 435-462-5303

Feb 6th-7th Cloud 9 Toys – Park City or Strawberry, Utah
email: info@paragliders.com ph: 801-576-6460

Feb 8th Powder Mountain Resort- Powder Mountain,Utah
Email: andy@floraslake.com ph: 616-218-6868

Feb 9th-11th Mai Tai event with Jeff Kafka – Strawberry, Utah
email: wowkite@sbcglobal.net ph: 650-218-6023

The Minnesota winter was taking its time coming, so a small posse headed up to Northern Wisconsin Mid January in search of untracked powder. They discovered a day of bliss.

Riders: John Z, Mike B, Chad D, and Tighe B.
End of Session is a hobby of Tighe Belden

Building on it’s dramatic success of the Open-C canopy and Slingshot’s patented Split Strut technology, the RPM pushes kite design to a whole new level. Inspired by Youri’s world dominating performance on the tour, we modified the wing tip attachment points to optimize kite performance and deliver complete tuning customization. These additional features and the new 7m allows complete versatility in all conditions and all riding styles.

The 2012 RPM sets the standards of durability and stability while maintaining it’s legendary flying characteristics and aggressive look.

We can talk about this kite all day, but the best way to experience this kite is to watch Youri Zoon with it in Capetown. Then get out on the water and ride it yourself.

Get all the details of the new 2012 RPM here.

This is the story of new world champion in kitesurfing; Youri Zoon.
EyEFORcE productions has followed Brunotti rider Youri Zoon over the last couple of years, filming him on locations across the globe.
This video documents his career.

-PKRA footage courtesy of Extreme Elements
-OLD footage courtesey of Kaaps.nl

2012 Darkside

Board Size: 142cm

New for 2012, we’ve introduced a new shape and proven favorites that are lighter, stronger and proudly handcrafted in our USA factory.

In its third year the Darkside is the board that is driving the Wakestyle scene in kiteboarding. Ruben Lenten, Alex Fox, Eric Reinstra, and Joby Cook work tirelessly with Tony Logosz to design the ultimate Wakestyle board. It’s the weapon of choice for Wakestyle riders and is a park feature killing machine. On the water it offers massive drive, power and no whip pop. On the rails it is balanced, flexible, and super durable.

New for this year is our new lighter Future Response Technology. Exclusive innovations include Columbia Gold wood core, SingleShot Fusion Sidewall, Resin-X, Fastrack, Duraglide grindable base and Custom Culture Graphics. The Darkside is proudly handcrafted in our USA Factory.

2012 Slingshot Darkside Package:
142cm – Width: 43cm Tip Tail Width: 34cm Stance: 21″-26″

Darkside Deck
4, 2″ (5cm) G-10 “wakestyle” symmetrical fins
Fastrack mounting system
Lifetime Rider Service Hotline Support

Rider Profile:

-Intermediate to Expert.
-Boots, powered progression.
-Rides kickers, sliders and rails. Destroys jibs!
-Looking for controlled progressive flex, delivering top level performance.

SKU: 1221142