HUNDREDS of watersports fans descended on Goring Gap to take in some highly entertaining racing in a brand new event.
The kitesurfing and stand up paddleboard (SUK) day drew families from across the area eager to soak up competition’s atmosphere.
According to newly-formed Goring-based organisers, 77 Sports Management, the event proved a genuine success in introducing a wide range of people to some engaging watersports.
Despite relatively light winds, racers took to the water for some keenly-contested action throughout the day on Saturday (September 22).
kitesurfer Danny Morrice took 1st place in the SUK event, Benj Arden 2nd and Gareth Piggott 3rd, with iON Action Cameras on hand to film the racing – which was compered by Goring’s pro slalom windsurfing champion Ant Baker.
The day’s settled conditions proved to be ideal for stand up paddle racing, with both professional and amateur competitions taking place.
Worthing Mayor Charles James said it was a fantastic event and an excellent means of families finding out more about watersports on their doorstep.
He said: “This is a wonderful day and something really good for Worthing. I am not sure I would be able to get out there and do the kitesurfing, but I like the look of the paddle boarding, so may have to try that.”
In the racing, Kevin McGuire claimed 1st prize in the SUP Amateur slalom, with Charlie Kinross, 2nd and Peter Newell-Price taking 3rd.
Jonathan Ellman-Bown received the 1st place trophy in the SUP Pro slalom, with Benj Arden in 2nd position, and Dave Donald 3rd.
Prizes for the winners included iON Action Cameras, Route 77 Energy drinks, ION-Essentials clothing from K66 distribution and Fanatic caps, plus trophies donated by South Coast Bathrooms.
Anne Powys-Keck, of 77 Sports Management, which has a portfolio of work spanning sports event management, PR and athlete management, believed the event had been well-received and hoped similar days could be staged on an even bigger scale.
She said: “There has been an amazing reception to the day and everyone has said how much fun it has been. It has given everyone has had the chance to learn more about the sport, which is fantastic. We couldn’t’ have asked for more.”
She added it provided an incredibly successful platform for showcasing the watersports scene and for future events in and around the Worthing area.
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