2017 La Ventana Classic Raises Over $25K

BAJA, Mexico - At the end of January the annual event, the La Ventana Classic, hit the shores and waters of Baja Sur, Mexico to throw a killer event that is fun for everyone, but also to raise money for the local community.

The La Ventana Classic is a Kiteboarding/SUP event that supports the local schools in the small Baja community of La Ventana and El Sargento. All the event proceeds, beyond the costs of running the event, go directly to Amigos de Alumnos for scholarships that keep local kids in high school. Although the cost of high school is only $300 USD annually per student (which includes tuition, books, and transportation) this cost is a roadblock that currently causes a high drop-out rate for high school students in La Ventana and El Sargento. This year, the La Ventana Classic hosted many of the top kiteboarding companies at the KiteXpo, and there were over 100 riders and stand up paddlers in the event. The La Ventana Classic is The La Ventana Classic has raised and implemented over $100,000 USD in direct projects at five local schools and health center over the over the course of eight years. In 2017 over $25,000 USD was raised to support these kids!

"I think the real story is that the LVC did manage to raise $25k USD for the local education,” says SUP Race Coordinator Barrett Tester. “This was done by the coalescing of wind/paddle sports driven enthusiasts who either live or faithfully visit La Ventana, Baja Sur every winter. This die-hard community of local kiters, paddlers and businesses does an awesome job of putting on a great event. This year we had rocking winds and high decibel rock concerts all helping us achieve our goal of sending local kids to high school and beyond”.

In regards to the SUP Racing, there were six total races, all of which were downwinders, ranging from 4 to 10 miles. Super windy, fast conditions… and lots of downwind jibing connecting to wind waves and swell. The races occurred in the Sea of Cortez along the rugged Baja Sur coastline at La Ventana.

Overall the La Ventana Classic was a huge success, one that will be celebrated for years to come. Until next year…

LVC Overall SUP Results:

12’6” men

1. Dave Beddows, Calgary, Alberta
2. Gerry Lopez, Bend, OR
3. Julio Ceasar Losero, El Sargento, Baja Sur

12’6” women

1. Mary Rose Kissenger, Hood River, OR

14’ Men

1. Mike Dillion, Santa Cruz, CA
2. Norm Bedews, Calgary, Alberta
3. Gary Martin, San Diego, CA

14’ women

1. Bonnie Fromm, Hood River, OR
2. Ella Johnson, San Francisco, CA

See more SUP Race news HERE.