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The Rise and Rise of UK Kneeboard surfing


The first independent British Kneeboard National Championships are to be staged at the newly built International Surfing Centre, Newquay, on the 11th October 2003. The staging of this historic event reflects the growing interest worldwide in this alternative approach to surfing.

Although kneeboard riding has been around for many years it has often been hidden behind the glamour of traditional surfing and by the underground nature of those attracted to the sport. But the growth in world communication seems to have fuelled a new breed of enthusiast who is keen to kneel up and be counted. In recent months kneelos have been meeting up all over the world at premier surf spots, even gracing Oahu?s North Shore as they push the boundaries of fun. If this was not enough, the ISA are to sanction a world championship event in Tahiti in June 2004.

In the UK, kneelos have formed their own club (backed by the BSA) with the intention of developing the sport while retaining that fun element and camaraderie commonly found in the kneelo community. The club has grown at a rapid rate and has attracted a surprising number of resident non-nationals and travelling kneelos, as well as the locals to its fold. The club is therefore keen to see a contest, which reflects the need for fun, accommodates non-nationals, and which crowns a British Champion. In addition the club confidently expects to select a strong team to represent the UK in the world championships, while entertaining spectators with progressive top level kneeboarding.

Recent events suggest that the UK has more than enough home- grown talent to make a mark on the world stage. For example, St Ives local Karl Ward surprised the attendees of the recent North Shore gathering by his ability to ride big waves at Sunset and Rockies. There is little doubt though, that Karl will be pushed hard by the likes of ?master tube rider? Richard Smith from Polzeath and reigning British Champion Duncan Jones from the Bad Lands. The fight for the top position will certainly be a spectacle. But there will
be more to the Nationals: this is to be an event for kneelos of all levels, abilities and nationalities. The organisers are planning other categories and events as an addition to the traditional British Men and Women?s Open events. One idea is to run a tag event that will use a seeding or handicap system to even out the results. A category will be run for international kneelos (to be crowned international champion) which will also be a UK taking on all-comers event. If you are a kneelo you cannot afford to miss this event. Don?t just watch ? come and take part. This day belongs to you. Come and explore the inner most limits of pure fun for yourself.


For more details contact the BKC on 01872 264817 or at
duncoliver@yahoo.co.uk and visit www.kneeboardsurfing.co.uk