For the first time ever South Africa is host of the iconic Global Kiteboarding Awards event that makes its way to coastal cities around the world each year. Among the nominees are four South African kiteboarding athletes, who compete internationally and who are in the running for some of the 14 global title awards that are up for grabs.
The Global Kitesports Association (GKA) is proud to announce the highly anticipated Qatar Airways GKA Awards to be held in Cape Town on Friday, 10 January, 2025, marking the first time that this prestigious event will be held in Cape Town and on the African continent.
This spectacular awards event promises to be the “Oscars of Kitesurfing” and a true celebration of kiteboarding excellence – a showcase of the world’s most renowned kiteboarding athletes, including four South African watersport athletes who are nominated for some of the awards.
“The GKA Awards will honour the sport’s greatest athletes, highlight their most remarkable achievements, and pay tribute to the global kiteboarding community that continues to inspire and innovate within the world of watersports. They celebrate the outstanding achievements of the world’s top kiteboarders and shine a light on the relentless dedication and passion of those who push the boundaries of what’s possible with a kite, inspiring future generations and elevating the sport to new heights,” says Dr. Jörgen Vogt, CEO of the GKA Kite World Tour.
With 14 awards to be presented, the Qatar Airways GKA Awards recognise athletic prowess and contributions to grow the sport on a global scale. Awards categories include Male and Female Rider of the Year, Freestyle Move of the Year, Wave of the Year, and Rookie of the Year, to name a few.
Adding to the excitement, the first GKA Big Air Challenge 2025, in collaboration with WOO Sports, is in full swing in the Western Cape. Brand teams are battling for the highest combined jumps between 2 and 9 January, with an annual trophy to be presented during the awards night.
The prized statuettes will be awarded to the best men and women athletes who will be given the top honour in the Rider of the Year awards.
Qatar Airways is proud to support this iconic event, furthering its commitment to elevating kiteboarding’s global profile. “This event provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the strong synergy between Qatar Airways’ global reach and the GKA’s mission to elevate the profile of kiteboarding as a premier international sport,” says Steve Reynolds, Vice President of Qatar Airways.
The Qatar Airways GKA Awards promises an unforgettable evening filled with excitement, passion, and celebration. With many of the world’s best kiteboarders basing themselves in Cape Town to train in the cranking Cape Doctor winds that blow from November to March, a big turnout of professional athletes is guaranteed.
As South Africa’s kiteboarding mecca, Cape Town is the perfect setting for this world-class celebration.
For those lucky enough to be in Cape Town on 10 January, tickets are available for R500, with exclusive access to the awards show and after-party. Secure your tickets now at www.gkakiteworldtour.com/awards-2024.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of kiteboarding history and celebrate the incredible achievements of the sport’s finest athletes.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, 10 January 2025
- Location: Cape Town City Hall, South Africa
- Time: Doors open at 18:30 (Welcome drinks & canapés), Awards Show 19:45–21:30
- After Party: GKA x Dirty Habits After Party – Paarden Island
Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments:
Instagram: @gkakiteworldtour
About the GKA Kite World Tour:
The Global Kitesports Association (GKA) is the governing body for professional kiteboarding. The GKA Kite World Tour brings together the world’s best athletes in thrilling competitions across various disciplines, from freestyle to wave riding, and promotes kiteboarding worldwide. The GKA Awards honour the best in the sport and recognise the contributions of athletes, innovators, and industry leaders.
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