Barack Obama Kitesurfing with Richard Branson is the Weekend Inspiration We Needed
February 10, 2022
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Kitesurfing is fun! We’ve been saying that for some time now, but it seems like the world is just noticing this, thanks to the former president of the United States and the Virgin Chief Executive.
Richard Branson invited Barack and Michelle Obama on his own private Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands, to have some fun, do a bit of relaxing and kitesurfing. It appears that the goal was reached, as the photos from the kitesurfing sessions are priceless.
Branson is a longtime kitesurfer and friend of the Obamas. The mogul actually holds quite a few of kitesurfing Guinness World Records: in 2013, and again in 2016, he organized the largest parade of kitesurfers, and he also holds the record for most people riding on a single kitesurf board, among others.
Branson’s love of kitesurfing is almost as famous as his company, Virgin. He writes: “To me, kitesurfing is the best sport in the world. The feeling of being out on the ocean – away from the confines of four walls – with the wind blowing at my back and salt coating my skin is exhilarating. It’s great exercise, recreation, relaxation, and stress management.”
It seems that Richard Branson is just the right person to teach Obama how to kitesurf! He posted the photos and videos from the kitesurfing session, along with a few words on the Virgin's website.
"Being the former president of America, there was lots of security around, but Barack was able to really relax and get into it. After all he has done for the world, I couldn't begrudge him his well-deserved win. Now he has left, I'm going back into the water to practice for the next challenge. On his next visit, we plan to do the long kite over to Anegada together. Next time, may the best (British) man win!"
It appears that even though Barack Obama is a rookie windsurfer, he appears to have stayed upright longer than Branson. The former POTUS seemed like he was having a blast, and I guess we could all agree that after 8 years office, he deserves a bit of fun in the sun.
Many pointed out that this is a publicity stunt, because hey, don’t we all kitesurf with out own videographer and photographer in tow? But we have to remember who these two men are: a British billionaire and the former president of the United States. They’re not some regular surfers chilling and catching some wind, even though the photos show a fun and playful side of the two.
Have you been inspired by Obama’s recent kitesurfing adventure? Then go over to our website and select a kitesurfing camp that will make you feel like a million bucks!