Ruben Lenten’s Megaloop Challenge 2012

An extreme kitesurfing competition

Event details

Huge jumps, awesome megaloops and extreme kitesurfing is what Ruben Lenten’s challenge is all about. With 24 competitors battling it out for ultimate kiting supremacy – not to mention over $1,500 NZ and a photo shoot with professional Red Bull photographer Craig Kolesky – this competition is one not to be missed! The single-day event takes place between the 16th and 26th of February (depending on the wind conditions, which must be at least 30 knots), and will be held at Big Bay in Cape Town, South Africa.




Like the logo: Ruben Lenten next to the cut-out style trophy.

As a kiteboarder that reached world-renowned status through hard work and perseverance, Ruben Lenten has had significant kitesurfing experience. Over the past few years he has focussed on finding new challenges and gained a reputation as a legendary master of kiteloops in the process. This expertise makes him rightly qualified to judge the competition (with his mate Aaron Hadlow) as he ranks each kiteboarder’s style, height, length and enthusiasm of their megaloop.

In true kitesurfing fashion the best wipe-out of the event will also be rewarded. Due to the height and difficulty of performing a kiteloop, it is highly likely there will be some big crashes!







Never seen a kiteloop performed before? Check out Ali Barrett's video from Cape Town!


Can’t wait for the 16th of February and want to know more? Have a look at the Red Bull's information page for the event.

Competition format

Final results

The wind was pumping and kites were flying high as Lewis Crathern 'wowed' the judges to win the first ever LEN10 Megaloop Challenge in Cape Town.

Lewis, kiteboarder from the UK, went up against Sam Light and Gianni Aragno in the final. "I was just stoked to have been in the final with two of my best friends. I’ve been coming to Cape Town to kiteboard for the last six years and I love it here. The people are friendly and the weather and wind conditions are perfect," he said.


Stoked: Lewis Crathern holds the winner's trophy.

Ruben Lenten commented, "All the riders and spectators were excited about the format which gives the guys time to pull their best moves and score high. I’m happy that such a big crowd came down to see the guys pull some gnarly tricks and see some pretty epic wipeouts too – which is just as much part of kiteboarding as landing the trick."


Safer than riding: Lots of spectators came to check out the event.

Surprisingly, Lewis and the other finalists had decided before they went out for the final to split the prize money – it wasn’t about the cash but rather spending a good day doing what they love. Lewis did, however, get something the other contestants didn't: a one-of-a-kind trophy and a photo shoot with renowned South African action sports photographer Craig Kolesky.


Irresistible: Ruben couldn't help but join in the action.


Harsh light: A bright day and some fine kitelooping by Sam Light.


Tough competition: Riders continued kiting until dark.

Ruben Lenten is keen to bring the competition back in 2013 and throw himself into the mix. "We’re going to push the limits of kiteboarding even more," he said.

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