Kitesurfing comes to Malta

The current British kitesurfing champion is one of two instructors visiting Malta this weekend to promote the sport .

The event is being organised by watersports equipment provider Ripcurl.

Kitesurfing is a brand new sport, in existence for no more than 10 years, but which has already gained mainstream status.

It is a combination of flying power kites, windsurfing, wakeboarding and surfing all thrown into one.

A large traction kite is used to power the rider across the water, while a board (wake or surf) is strapped to the rider's feet. The kite is then used to lift the rider high into the sky when jumping. Jumps of eight metres are common, with some of the world's best riders achieving heights of 12 metres and more.

The event is taking place on Mellieha beach tomorrow and on Sunday from 11 a.m onwards.

Free lessons are being given to interested people.