It is mid-summer and when the surf starts to dwindle, there are only a few options: surf trip or begin a new watersport. For those explorers with a stay-cation budget, trying something new appeals to both a sense of adventure and your wallets.
Speaking of money…
On June 29, 2012, Sir Richard Branson, billionaire and business tycoon best known for Virgin Records, set out kitesurfing with his son, Sam, and a team of friends. He attempted to break a world record for fastest time kitesurfing across the English Channel.
Unfortunately, half way through the adventure, Sir Richard Branson realized that his kite was too small. Unless he turned back to France, he would be headed straight for disaster… the cliffs of Dover. However, Sam trekked on reaching Folkestone in 2 hours 18 minutes, beating the current world record by 12 minutes. Additionally, Sam and his friends set yet another record for the fastest group to cross the Channel.
According to AFP in London, Branson lightheartedly affirmed: “So tomorrow, weather willing, I'll have another go at breaking the new world record -- held by my son. I have told Sam to enjoy the next 24 hours.” Back in August, 2010, he had to abandon his initial attempt due to high seas. Now, at 61 years old, Branson was determined to try again just a day after turning back to France. He made the trip in 3 hours and 45 minutes, gaining a new respect for his son and a new world record for the oldest man to kitesurf across the English Channel.
While Sir Richard Branson is no novice to breaking world records, you may find in him enough inspiration to take you from couch surfing to attempting kitesurfing. Keen to try a new watersport? Consult your local “deal-of-the-day” websites which offer discounts from time to time on stand up paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing.
Related Articles:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-18664278
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hP2lMjv99P0gvgvre_4D5DV2v4kw?docId=CNG.c91772083f0e08ad2fbc893999aa0a54.2f1
See Houston’s Current Watersport Deals:
All Points of Sail Whaz SUP
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