The US speed sailing record has been broken by several competitors in the North American Speed Sailing Invitational this week.  The kiteboarders reached speeds of 55 knots over a 250 meter run in wind gusts of similar speeds at a previously unknown spot called Martha's Vinyard, just south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, USA. 

The event was a 12 heat series which took place over the entire year. The fastest kiteboarders in the world were invited to attend the exclusive race series, some travelling halfway around the world with only a few days notice to make the events. Lured by the fastest speeds and a crazy prize kitty, these guys are also great friends who push each other faster and faster during the event. The comradeship is great to see, with most riders sharing accommodation and spending the entire stop together. 

Rob Douglas, the current world record holder; tied with Frenchman Alex Caizergues with the top speed of 55 knots - equivalent to over 101 kmph. Not bad for production kites and a chunk of carbon strapped to their feet! Last week the boys were running around like mad men with a forecast for severe storms and damaging winds predicted. Luckily the winds delivered the goods, with 50-60 knots from the East North East - perfect for the new spot. 

Martha's Vinyard is a relatively unknown location for kiteboarding - it's normal reserved for the rich American tourists in summer. The tiny little island is home to around 15,000 people - all of them pretty rich apparently - as house prices are almost 100% more expensive than buying on the mainland and general living costs are over 60% higher. On a more kiteboarding related note - the little island sits right in the path of winter storms through the off season. This suits the speed sailors just fine with less tourists, more wind, and interestingly one of the only known speed sailing locations where riders have to make the run on port tack, so it's a natural footers dream location.

Sponsored by Lynch Associates, this 12 race event had the highest prize purse ever known in speed sailing - with the winner Rob Douglas taking home $15,000! That's a fair whack of money, especially considering the worlds best kite surfers in the KSP don't get a single cent for winning their event. 

The enthusiasm and innovation from this elite group of kiteboarders is definitely pushing the sport in a good direction - lets face it, nobody else can keep up with us on the water, so we may as well just continue to push the boundaries of what's possible with a kite. 

Check out the video below, and for more info - check out the North American Speed Sailing Invitational Facebook here.