Richard Branson’s 1st BVI Kite Jam on Necker Island was attended by international kiteboarders and pro athletes from around the world. Held Feb. 28-March 5, the unique event gained authentication as Billabong, a leading international surfwear apparel brand, confirmed their involvement as the presenting sponsor for next year’s event. Billabong BVI Kite Jam 2011 will take place February 26 – March 5.

The highlights of the week included an unforgettable downwinder to Pomato Point on Anegada followed by a BBQ lunch at Cow Wreck Beach and an afternoon of freestyle action on Wednesday, March 3. Pro boarders Kristin Boese, Tom Court, Chris Burke and others carved up the waters along side Sir Richard Branson and participating kite jammers. Other activities took place off of Bitter End Yacht Club’s North Beach where pros and amateurs grinded on sliders and water obstacles on a sand spit in the Eustasia Sound. And Finally, BVI Kite Jam closed with an over the top party on a remote beach on Mosquito Island, complete with an award ceremony, fire dancers, and a DJ.

At the opening party, the BVI Kite Jam Team presented $5,000 checks to charity partners Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) and Tortola’s Kids And The Sea (KATS).

‘Sailors for the Sea’ also gave the event a Clean Regatta Certification, an eco-friendly stamp of approval, in conjunction with Sunsail’s participation and use of their new Sunsail 394 catamarans.

BVI Kite Jam is a unique annual kiteboarding event bringing together pros and amateurs with visual competitions, demonstrations, technique clinics and festivities taking place in key locations throughout the British Virgin Islands. The event aims to bring attention to the kiteboarding community as well as BVI as a Mecca for kiteboarding because of its ideal wind and water conditions. For more information and to register for Billabong BVI Kite Jam 2011, visit www.bvikitejam.com.

(photo credit BVI Kite Jam)

(resource: BVIPlatinum.com)