Kitesurfers to gather in Christchurch | Canterbury Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Canterbury

Olympic sailing ace Barbara Kendall will tackle a new challenge in Christchurch this week.

The sailboard champion is an entrant for the national kitesurfing contest from Friday to Sunday.

More than 70 high flyers are competing in the nationals, for which the estuary, Sumner bar, South Brighton, and Lake Ellesmere have been named as alternative venues, depending on the weather each day.

Kendall is not often eclipsed, but in this contest, where competitors are airborne 10m above the waves, Nelson-based Cindy Mosey, who has won three world championships, is expected to be the star.

Kendall's husband and manager Shane Bright is also competing.

Christchurch's Aaron Smith will defend the men's open title with Aucklander Gavin Broadbent his main rival.

Kitesurfers compete in an all-in open, men's and women's open classes, juniors, legends, and a tricks event.