RED BULL LIGHTHOUSE TO LEIGHTON KITEBOARD RACE

Australia’s favourite kiteboard race, the Red Bull Lighthouse to Leighton, returns on 9 December and you can be a part of the fun by heading down to the beach to cheer on the 140 competitors as they race to shore. Now in its 8th year, the race is a ‘must do’ for serious kiters who take on the 19km open ocean course from Rottnest Island to Leighton Beach, Fremantle. Records were broken last year when winner, Frenchman Nico Parlier, completed the race in just 19 minutes and three seconds, shaving more than three minutes off Englishman Olly Bridge’s previous record.

In good conditions, the kiteboarders will be faster than the Rottnest Express ferries so we recommend getting to the beach in plenty of time to enjoy the party and live commentary and see the winners receive their trophies. There’s more than $9000 in prize money up for grabs. Look out for the Red Bull wig wams on the beach.

What: 140 kiteboarders will race across the Indian Ocean from Phillip Point at Rottnest Island to Leighton Beach in North Fremantle. Spectators can watch the competitors ride into the finish line at Leighton Beach. The event is made possible thanks to Tourism Western Australia, Red Bull, Fremantle Sailing Club, WAKSA, Rottnest Express and Channel 9 Perth.

Who: World ranked international kite surfers will compete alongside local, national and international entrants and past winners.

When: Saturday 9 December. Entertainment commences from 2pm, Racers depart Rottnest at approx 2.30pm and the fastest competitors are set to arrive at the finish line from approximately 2.50pm, depending on weather conditions. If wind conditions are not favourable, the race will be held on Sunday 10 December. Check the website or Facebook event on the day.

Where: Leighton Beach, Port Beach Road, North Fremantle. Catch the train to the North Fremantle station, bike or park.

Cost: Free for spectators. To enter, visit the website for info.

Video link: https://vimeo.com/194920602