5:30pm Friday 29th January 2010
By Diana Henderson
The biggest charity kite surfing event of the year blows into Poole and Bournemouth in March.
Weather permitting, The Big Downwinder will see up to 100 kitesurfers chasing waves and donations for the Julia’s House Pyjama Appeal.
Boscombe photographer and kitesurfer, Chris Scone-Roberts, has already got the support of professionals, such as five times world champion Aaron Hadlow, and his aim is to get all abilities involved.
The downwind course will be four miles from Sandbanks to Boscombe Pier and riders in their PJs and a team of walkers rattling donation buckets along the beach will add to the fun on Saturday March 13, or on Sunday if the wind fails, followed by a barbecue.
“Julia’s House is a great local charity,” said Chris. “The work they do is amazing. It’s purely about the children and making as much money as possible.”
The Dorset charity has launched a £400,000 Pyjama Appeal, backed by the Daily Echo, to run an overnight service for the coming year at the Corfe Mullen hospice.
“We are delighted to be the chosen charity for The Big Downwinder,” said charity community fundraiser Linda Schofield-Green.
“The funds raised will make a huge difference to the children that we care for and their families – we are hugely grateful,” she said.
Entry costs £22 to include kit donated by kite company Flexifoil and riders are asked to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.
l To find out more or take part call Chris Skone-Roberts on 07970 000078 or email chris@lazyblueskies.com.
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