Kitesurfers to traverse Dutch coast for heart disease research

Approximately 350 kitesurfers are set to participate in the Hoek tot Helder charity event, a 130-kilometer journey across the North Sea to raise funds for research into hereditary heart diseases. Following consultation with wind experts, organizers have given the green light for the trek to proceed on Thursday, September 3.

The route begins in Hoek van Holland and travels along the Dutch coast, passing through locations such as Zandvoort, IJmuiden, and Egmond aan Zee, before finishing in Den Helder. Due to the nature of kitesurfing, the actual distance traveled may reach up to 200 kilometers. For safety reasons, participants must exit the water at IJmuiden and be transported by bus to Wijk aan Zee to continue the journey. Volunteers and safety teams will be stationed along the route to support the participants during the expected 7.5 hours on the water.