Ride Hard, Return Safe: NSRI Launches Safety Initiatives for Kiteboarders

Cape Town’s summer coastline is renowned worldwide for its blue waters, consistent winds, and big-air heroics. But beneath the beauty lies the kind of power that commands respect. Following the tragic passing of South African kiteboarder Graham Howes, his family and the NSRI have launched a fundraiser for a new rescue vessel in his name. The initiative honours Graham’s adventurous spirit while creating a legacy that will continue saving lives along South Africa’s unforgiving shores.

Alongside the campaign, a series of short videos featuring pro riders shares one united message: ‘the ocean always wins and safety needs to come first.’

When the Wind Bites Harder

Cape Town’s southeaster can lure even experienced riders into a false sense of security. “From the beach, it looks calm and relaxed,” says local rider Jett Bradshore. “But once you’re in the water, the waves are way more powerful, the wind is stronger and denser than people expect. It’s not the same 30 knots you get in Greece or the Bahamas; it’s far harsher.”

That mismatch between perception and reality is at the heart of many rescues. Rowan Marais, NSRI Station Commander at Melkbosstrand, says roughly 80% of their callouts involve kiteboarders, most of them international visitors. “They underestimate our coastline. They don’t understand the weather patterns and currents here and get into difficulties because they don’t know what to look out for.”

According to Rowan, the biggest lifesavers are communication and preparation. “Knowledge is the difference between life and death,” he stresses.

Some kiteboarding safety tips:

• Never go kiting alone or without letting someone know where you’ll be and how long you’ll be out

• Log trips using the NSRI’s free safety app SafeTRX

• Avoid low-visibility equipment colours like white, black and blue

• Most importantly, speak to locals before heading out.

A Culture of Awareness

For professional riders like Ruben Lenten from the Netherlands, Cape Town’s combination of cold Atlantic water, heavy surf, and volatile wind makes it both thrilling and treacherous. “Things can escalate quickly here,” he says. “The wind can jump up in minutes, and small mistakes become big problems.”

Ruben’s philosophy is simple: know when to sit a session out. “Experience has taught me the ocean always wins. If something feels off, offshore wind, heavy gusts, or if I’m not 100%, I don’t go. Choosing not to ride can be the smartest move you make.”

Both Jett and Ruben agree that the kite community must take collective ownership of safety education, sharing knowledge on social media and at popular beaches.

Installing on-site safety boards explaining wind patterns, rip currents, and emergency contacts could make a huge difference. “It’s all about awareness,” says Jett. “Too many riders get lost in the excitement of a session and forget how powerful the conditions are.”

Turning Loss Into Legacy

Graham Howes’ love for the ocean inspired countless riders. Now, through the NSRI’s Graham Howes: A Life Well Lived Campaign, that passion is being channelled into something life-saving. The campaign unites local and international kiteboarders around a shared mission: protecting those who chase the same wind and waves that inspired him.

“This is not about fear,” says Lenten. “It’s about awareness, preparation, and looking out for each other. If sharing this message helps even one person make a better decision or call for help earlier, it’s worth it.”

The NSRI continues to expand its kiteboarding safety resources, offering online guides and practical tools for visitors and locals alike. Riders are encouraged to study these materials before hitting the water, and to remember that Cape Town’s beauty demands humility.

Access the ultimate guide to kiteboard safely in South Africa

Graham’s legacy isn’t just about adventure; it’s about honouring the sea and protecting those drawn to it. Supporting the campaign not only funds a vessel, but it also fosters awareness, promotes safety, and paves the way for a future where fewer rescues are needed.

Donate to be part of the Graham Howes legacy