Taking on the Hebrides: Two Sports, One Playground.

Two sports, one spectacular setting. We explore the differences between powerkiting and windsurfing, find out what they share, and reveal why the Hebrides is the perfect place to put both to the test.

RAF personnel recently competed in the Scottish Isles, with the Powerkiting Championships in Benbecula (29 August–6 September 2026) and the RAF Windsurfing Wave Championship in Tiree (2–10 October 2026).

With so many sports in the RAF to choose from, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. However, if you want to try an activity that combines technical expertise, raw power and the freedom of the outdoors, powerkiting and windsurfing are two exciting options to consider. Both harness the power of the wind and water, but each offers a distinct experience, with its own skills to master and challenges to overcome. The Hebrides provide the perfect setting, with some of the UK’s most consistent winds for training and competition, stunning beaches, and numerous areas of shallow and sheltered water for beginners experiencing the sports for the first time.

So, what’s the difference, and which sport is best suited to you? Let’s explore what makes each unique.

Powerkiting

• Powered by: A large kite that uses the winds energy to pull a board across the water.
• Key challenge: Controlling the kite, managing speed and generating lift.
• Disciplines: Freestyle, racing, big air and wave riding.
• The thrill: High speeds, huge jumps and impressive tricks, all powered by the wind.

If that sounds like your kind of sport, you’ll be pleased to know that the RAF Powerkiting Association runs an annual novice course, giving personnel the opportunity to get started, develop their skills and build confidence on the kite.

That same spirit of learning and development was on display at the 2026 Championships in Benbecula, where coaching, skills development and competition gave riders of all abilities the chance to progress in a supportive environment.
With this year’s competition now complete, here are the results from the event.

2026 Championship results

• 1st Men’s Freestyle: Squadron Leader Will Nicoll
• 1st Ladies’ Freestyle: Flight Lieutenant Amie Shute
• 1st Combined Race and Combined Big Air: Flight Lieutenant Max Connor

Windsurfing

• Powered by: A sail that utilises the wind to propel a board across the water.
• Key challenge: Maintaining balance, controlling the sail and adapting to changing wind and waves.
• Disciplines: Freestyle, slalom racing, wave sailing and freeride.
• The thrill: Combining speed, technical skill and wave riding to master the wind and water.

If you would like to give windsurfing a go, the RAF Sailing Association also hosts annual competitions, including the RAF Windsurfing Wave Championship, which returned to Tiree last week for its 25th visit, here are the results.

2026 Championship results

• 1st: Air Specialist 1 Ollie Gregorelli – RAF Wave Champion
• 2nd: Warrant Officer Craig Hamilton
• 3rd: Flight Lieutenant John ‘Trigger’ Rigg

Whether you’re using the wind to launch into the air with impressive jumps or riding powerful waves at speed, powerkiting and windsurfing deliver adrenaline, adventure and the chance to push your limits.

Both demand skill, confidence and adaptability, while offering opportunities to build friendships, develop resilience and experience the thrill of harnessing the elements.

Head over and follow each Association across socials to learn more!
@RAFPowerKiting @RAFwindsurfing