To call it a pilgrimage wouldn't be too far from the truth, the Red Bull King of the Air is one kiteboarding competition that has stood the test of time. Starting back in 2000 on Hawaii, a small group of kiteboarders (there weren't really any pro's back then) got together for a day of big air and board-off tricks. That was the elite stuff back then, nobody did handlepasses, nobody dared throw a mega loop. Now, it's a different story. 24 of the worlds absolute best head to Cape Town, South Africa to the legendary spot called Big Bay. There's prize money, worldwide media attention, and of course - megaloops. Those massive jumps, with a kiteloop thrown at the peak, slingshotting riders through the air at crazy speeds and catching them only centimeters above the water. Or not catching them, that happens too.

Aside from the the action on event day, the kiting community loves the shenanigans that happen during the days leading up to the comp. With a two week window to ensure the windiest day for competition is available, the riders have up to 13 days of chilling out in hotel rooms, practicing in the lighter winds on Big Bay, and playing pranks on each other. Watch out for those 'after hours' videos that will start popping up next week.

This year, Aaron Hadlow is calling dibs on the event win. He's been training all year long for the King of the Air, using the Woo device as a benchmark against all other riders in the world. Currently he's on top of the list, with a jump over 24m high, the highest ever recorded on the device. With last years favourite Ruben Lenten out of the running this year, the podium is left wide open, Hadlow will be there for sure, but can he beat Kevin Langeree?

The event window opens on the 30th of January, and runs through until the 13th February. We'll bring you a full report once the kites have been deflated and rolled up in Cape Town, South Africa. In the meantime, enjoy the highlights from last years event.

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