Mission

“Kiteboard 4 Cancer empowers individuals to harness the power of wind and water to benefit lives affected by cancer.” That mission statement is brought to life by kiteboarders from all over the world as they descend upon Hood River, Oregon each year in support of this cause. As described, this 10th Annual Kiteboard 4 Cancer event is “Part kite festival, part chaos, ALL FUN.”

After speaking with several participants from previous years, one thing becomes apparent—good times for a good cause. Now given the size of this event, it’s understandable that you might feel a bit overwhelmed about the thought of jumping in with that many riders on the water. Sure, you might have the occasional snag here or there, but everyone kept talking about the positive nature of the event and the “no vibes” attitude shared by all. This is one of those moments when egos are put in check and human nature shines through to ensure that everyone has a good time. One thing I have been assured of is this—you’ll never forget it.

Video: KB4C 2017 "Kite it Out!"

Kite Derby

The highlighted event is The Kite Derby. Athletes gain sponsorship via private donations and ride solo, or form small teams that will ride non-stop for 6 full hours around a marked course on the Columbia River. As you can imagine, or know firsthand, those dealing with cancer face challenges like this every day of their lives as they fight the good fight and seek the path to recovery.

“KB4C is a festival for all that celebrates life through the healing powers of facing challenge in the elements, benefiting a cause that affects all of us.” -kb4c.org

Click HERE for more information about participating, volunteering and supporting KB4C.

Beneficiaries

KB4C benefits Project Koru (formerly Athletes 4 Cancer), which is a Hood River non-profit organization that helps young adult cancer patients to find health and healing through outdoor adventures. Their core values are community, empowerment and adventure.

Please click HERE to learn more about Project Koru.

MACkite Team Rider Fundraiser Pages:

Frank Scotello

Kim Wysocki

Franco De Angelis

Rider Perspective

Mike Duhaime, our Naish Kiteboarding rep has this to say about his experiences with KB4C:

“Really fun event. Not a big focus on the brand stuff, which is nice, but most brands still participate with teams and stuff. Good vibe—focuses on the task at hand of raising money for a good cause and sharing the stories of the people the event helps. Doing the solo 6 hours is tough, but rewarding. I remember finishing the race exhausted after 6 hours laying on the grass recovering and a girl walked up and handed me a beer and said thanks for sending me to camp. Almost teared up a bit—super cool moment realizing I hadn't been through a fraction of what she had.”

Ben Skaggs, from North Kiteboarding:

“It's a really fun event that brings a bunch of kiters, friends and family together to help support a great cause.” 

Frank Scotello, from MACkiteboarding:

"I don't think I will have any issues kiting for six hours straight. My primary objective is to have fun and not get tangled. I just want to finish with a smile on my face."

Marc Schmid, from Airush Kiteboarding:

"KB4C brings so many types of riders into one venue, some are competitive and some simply are just there for the social aspect, but everyone is there for the cause! My first year was last year and when you see the videos from before, there is a slight intimidation factor. You quickly get over this since everyone is simply just helping and cheering each rider on, the pressure completely goes away and its all about going at your own pace or push it to the limit. My major message is that people are intimidated to join in because the amount of kiters, The point I want to get across is that theres nothing to worry about."

Add KB4C to your Google Calendar  //  Google Maps location for KB4C