The Big Air Open has been confirmed to take place on Saturday 14th July 2012 in Worthing, West Sussex. Part of the Olympic Torch Relay Weekend, Worthing is proud to welcome a new sporting event into the town which is set to become a classic Kitesurfing event well beyond the Olympic year.
The event is based on a ‘how high can you jump format’ with points being awarded for the maximum height reached. If wind conditions on the day do not allow for a big air format to be run alternative arrangements will be made.
Entry to the event is limited to a total of 36 places, 12 of which are local wildcards. Local wildcards will be selected by The Big Air Open Committee and announced at a later date. The event is open to male and female competitors, and the format is based on a total of 28 heats, each of them lasting 8 minutes. There will be 3 riders on the water in each heat, with the 1st and 2nd place finishers advancing to the next round. The overall Champion and winner of The Big Air Open 2012 will be determined by a final heat of 3 riders.
The entry fee for competitors is £30, with only 36 places available to compete. Registration will be open from 14 March 2012 and the minimum age for competitors is 18.
Lewis Crathern, Worthing resident known internationally for his big air skills & Pier Jumping, is actively involved in the event and commented: “I am extremely excited about The Big Air Open, especially as it takes place in my home town of Worthing. This will be an amazing format for Kitesurfers of all levels to take on the wind and waves, show off their skills and compete for The Big Air Open Title. We have all worked hard on making this one of the best Kitesurfing competitions of the year!”
Cabinet member for regeneration Bryan Turner says: “We are delighted to have been instrumental in bringing this fantastic event to Worthing – a first for Worthing no less! We have made a considerable investment in the event and are looking forward to welcoming all the kite surfers to our lovely beach.”
Partners involved with The Big Air Open include Worthing Borough Council, Visit Worthing, Breathe Unity PR, Windmachine, Lewis Crathern, Hybred Productions, United Magic Film Studios, Tangerine Bar, Breathe Unity Network and The Burlington Hotel. Further partners and sponsors will be announced shortly.
The Big Air Open takes place from 9am to 6pm on Saturday 14th July on Worthing seafront. Plenty of prizes from the kitesurfing industry will be on offer and the winner will take home a cash prize and the title of Big Air Open Champion 2012. Lewis Crathern has confirmed that he will not be taking part but will be judging and commentating on the day.
Spectators, kitesurf enthusiasts and anyone who wants to get in the spirit of the Olympic Torch Relay Weekend is invited to come down to the beach, watch and cheer on the guys and girls on the water.
The prize giving and after party will take place from 8 pm to late at Tangerine Bar on Worthing’s seafront.
Go to www.thebigairopen.com for further details about The Big Air Open and to enter.