The IKA's campaign to have kiteboard racing recognised as an Olympic sport and include it in the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro received a boost this week from unexpected quarters.  Ukrainian boxing brothers Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko are both super-keen kiters and have joined the campaign.

Holding three of the four heavyweight boxing titles between them, the Klitschko brothers are a force to be reckoned with inside the ring and the IKA hope that they carry as much influence outside of it. 

Despite being a relatively young sport (the first world championships only began in 2007), kite racing has exploded in popularity, and has a committed following and all of the athletic credentials to suit  an Olympic discipline.

Those behind the bid also stress the fact that the sport is easy to follow for spectators, visually exciting and generally has plenty of drama.  It is also possible to race in wind speeds of as little as five-knots, so there would be little chance of races being cancelled due to lack of wind.

Aside from experienced kiting legend Neil Pryde, and kiteboard racing world champion Steph Bridge, other voices joining the campaign for recognition include Sir Richard Branson, and double Olympic medallist, Michael Gebhardt.