A NUMBER of talented kitesurfers have been entertaining onlookers this week with displays of their skills in the stormy seas of Douglas Bay.

Wind conditions were near perfect as a group of kitesurfers displayed their abilities yesterday afternoon, including some impressive leaps above the waves and some skillful handling of their kites and surfboards.

There are several kitesurfers in the Isle of Man, taking advantage of the frequent windy conditions mostly on the eastern and north western coasts. It has become a very popular watersports activity all over the world, but is relatively new for the Isle of Man in the last few years.

The kitesurfers have mostly been seen in Douglas Bay, Gansey, Peel, Ramsey and all along the northwest coast in places such as Kirk Michael and Ballaugh. But it depends entirely on wind and sea conditions with a relatively strong breeze needed to create the necessary speeds.

Speeds of 40mph are not uncommon and the current world record is held by an American who reached 49.84 knots (57.4mph) in 2008.

Photos: Bill Dale  www.isleofmanphotos.com