For BKSA Intermediate level kiters and above you have no doubt seen or heard of the easing of lockdown restrictions laid out by the British Government last Sunday.
Kitesports are now a justifiable form of daily exercise for everyone who is competent and able to practice safely, from May 13th onwards.
In response to this, the BKSA is changing its guidance about going kitesurfing, land kiting, buggying and powerkiting to align with the above. However this only applies if you are competent in your discipline to an Intermediate standard or above, can adhere to all government guidelines, and are insured / your membership is up to date.
Before you rush out the door to your local spot PLEASE have a look at the posters, check your MEMBERSHIP is up to date and read the guidance below.
Kitesports are a naturally social distance compliant activity. This is a positive step where I hope we, as an activity group, can demonstrate our responsibility and maturity when conducting our great sports.
This is not business as usual however, there are some significant differences and considerations when heading out for a session.
You need to be aware there is no national RNLI lifeguarding provision currently, and dramatically lower levels throughout the summer (70% reduced).
Kiteschools will remain closed for now and probably not open until June, kite retail shops potentially even longer.
Club activities are currently being greatly, if not entirely reduced and club houses in many cases are remaining closed for now.
We are reviewing DCMS guidelines and we will be advising Schools, clubs and training centres in due course.
Government guidelines now state:
- People may exercise outside as many times each day as they wish.
- People may drive to outdoor open spaces irrespective of distance, so long as they respect social distancing guidance
This does not mean you should travel to the beach and ‘wait’ for the wind on a daily basis. Check the forecast to ensure the weather is suitable for the day and the spot you intend to go to. If you can, please go to your local/ closest/ most familiar location.
When travelling to the beach/ land kite spot please minimise your stops/interactions and potential transmission routes for the virus to spread.
We do not want to contribute to transmitting the virus from areas of high infection, to rural and remote low infected areas. This could result in more stringent measures being reintroduced.
Please also consider when travelling to outdoor spaces, it is important that people respect the rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and do not travel to different parts of the UK where it would be inconsistent with guidance or regulations issued by the relevant devolved administrations.
Also keep in mind it’s probably a while since you last kited, perhaps the first time this year. Check your kit, check yourself, be realistic about your own capabilities and the conditions. …The bigger person is the one who knows their own limitations.
Let us set an example of how to act sensibly and safely engage in our great sports without impacting negatively on the rest of our society.
Kite safe, keep your distance, save lives.
Andy Gratwick
BKSA MD
For further information on government guidance relating to outdoor exercise please follow this link.
