With all the turmoil in the world especially in politics many have decided to not pay attention anymore. Politics can be boring, get ugly and usually seem to create more problems than they actually resolve. Unfortunately for us politics are most likely not going anywhere and they are actually having some effects on the sports we do and love.

As kiteboarding grows around the world- we will encounter more and more new situations that we have yet previously faced. Accidents that are unforeseen, rules applied to spots that were once not there or worst water sport bans!

Many kitesurfers might not be interested in country politics though one should consider being interested in its local kiteboarding politics. As the sport grows it will need guidelines, standards and practices internationally as well locally per spot as each spot varies.

We are already beginning to see some spots that are banning kiteboarding or putting up rules that are quite devastating. This is because many local spots have either a weak kiteboarding association or no association at all. Having a logical and positive association in any area can actually help protect, maintain and grow the area.

The IKO in part gives a blueprint on which rules and standards can be set to have an optimally functioning kiteboarding spot that is not only fun but most importantly safe to all land and water users. Our question to you is where are you located and if you are a part of your local kiteboarding association! Does the association have a positive or negative impact on your area? If your spot has no association why don't you start one to begin giving structure to your area?

Let us know in the comment section below!