Richard Branson to kitesurf the Channel
- Aug 19, 2010
Richard Branson is preparing to kitesurf across the English Channel and break a record in the process.
Kitesurfing has been one of Richard Branson's favourite activities for many years, and this challenge is to mark his 60th birthday.
Richard Branson's children - Holly Branson and Sam Branson - will join him for the kitesurfing adventure next week, along with some of his nephews.
The English Channel presents numerous challenges to kitesurfers, as it is one of the world's busiest stretches of water and is 24 miles wide.
If Richard completes the challenge, he will break a record – becoming the oldest person to ever kite-surf across the Channel.
Leaving from Dungeness in Kent, the team intend to reach a finishing point in France, which will be dependant on wind conditions.
In order to get in shape for kitesurfing the Channel, Richard and the team have been working out with Virgin Active, who are sponsoring the event.
Virgin Active fitness coaches have developed a special training programme designed to improve core strength and help the kitesurfers deal with any challenges they face while crossing the Channel.
Nick Hudson, Virgin Active's national fitness manager, said: "Kitesurfing is a hugely challenging sport physically, that places very different strains and stresses on the body, compared to traditional gym based exercise, so we have had Richard and the team using some of our less traditional training tools and equipment."
Head over to Virgin Active to find out all the details about Richard's kitesurfing challenge, as well as kitesurfing in general.
Follow Richard Branson's progress on his Virgin.com blog, as well as his Twitter and Facebook pages – and get in touch to offer him your good luck messages.
Greg Rose
