Welcome to the Amateur Kiteboarders Association!
Organization
The AKA was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Dorado, Puerto Rico. The AKA is a not-for-profit organization created to further the educational, physical, mental and moral development of our youth through organized athletic programs, instruction and competition in kiteboarding and other watersport activities throughout Puerto Rico, the Caribbean and the United States. The AKA’s operations are covered by membership fees, product and equipment sales, sponsorships and outside donations. Contributions made to the AKA are tax deductible.
Eligibility and Membership
The activities of the AKA are available to all members of the general public regardless of age or sex, with emphasis given to youth activities. All instructional programs are conducted under the supervision of qualified professional and experienced amateur instructors. Currently, the AKA is accepting youth boys and girls up to the age of 19 (seniors in high school) who are experienced in kiteboarding.
Chapters
The AKA is organized into regional chapters/teams with the Dorado Falcons from Dorado, Puerto Rico being the AKA’s initial chapter. The Dorado Falcons are currently a team of 13 members comprised of 4 girls and 9 boys ages 8 to 19. The team has one weekly practice conducted by its coach. In addition, to a weekly practice, the team participates in monthly competitions organized by the AKA. Please contact the AKA if you are interested in forming a new AKA chapter.
The Season
The AKA has organized its youth kiteboarding season from November through June, when it holds its season-ending championship. Competitions are organized such that teams compete against each other but also that individual performance and standings are tracked.
AKA Merit Scholarship
As part of its charitable mission, the AKA offers a merit scholarship open to any graduating Puerto Rico senior who plans to attend college or college prep school. This scholarship is awarded on the basis of the applicant’s accomplishments, not financial need. Applicants for the AKA Merit Scholarship do not need to be kiteboarders. For 2016, the AKA will be awarding one $1,000 scholarship.
Kites-Up Program
The AKA has also organized the “Kites-Up” program to provide an opportunity for those who do not have the financial means to enter the sport. Under the Kites-Up Program, new and used kiteboarding equipment will be donated to the AKA. The equipment will then be used during Kites-Up summer camps to train children entering the sport. The Kites-Up program is also organizing a one week water sports camp for autistic children.
