Cayman hosts first International Kiteboarding event

(CNS): After dozens of volunteers more than 30 bags of ocean-bound trash over 2 miles of beach recently the Rock International Open (TRIO)  Cayman’s first international kite-boarding contest open Wednesday on a pristine stage at Barkers.  Over 40 of the sport’s most famous athletes from around the world are here for four days of watersports action and set to put the Cayman Islands on the map when it comes to top kitesurfing locations around the world, organisers said. Featuring three separate events – Freestyle, Big Air and Racing – TRIO will put competitors through their paces. Funds raised will go towards the department of environment’s turtle protection programme.

“Barkers is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Cayman Islands,” said Derek Serpell, TRIO event director. “As kitesurfers, we take advantage of the consistent trade winds which allow us to practice our sport in this wonderful environment, but we must never forget that we are sharing the location with the turtles, and do our best to protect them.”

Volunteers had worked hard recently to remove seaweed and burs from the beach to allow spectators to walk amongst the trees and sit in the shade whilst enjoying the competition, Damian Davis, site manager for TRIO.  "It was great to see kitesurfers, beach users, and environmental lovers getting together and giving something back to the local community by cleaning up Barkers beach” he said promising to ensure that the beach and environment will not be harmed during the contest which will add another string to the sports tourism bow.

Under 16s will also get their own dedicated event during the contest and workshops held before, during and after will provide something for all to do regardless of age or skill level.