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Portland Harbour Delivers a Storm to Remember!
The 2025 BKSA (British Kitesports Association) Big Air Series came to a dramatic close on the first weekend of October, as Portland Harbour hosted the season’s grand finale – the highly anticipated PUKL event. With winds topping 50 knots and an international field of elite riders, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation from the very first heat.
Photos: Harry Calvert, Kina Schlup, Nicholas Guppy
Division One was stacked with European talent and the best of British, who’d earned their places through earlier event wins on the BKSA Series, standout video entries and wildcard slots. The women’s division was equally fierce, drawing international competitors and upholding the series’ commitment to equal prize money across both genders.
In Division Two, all eyes were on rising star Archie Budd, who entered the event with a strong overall lead – but as the weekend proved, anything can happen when the wind starts howling.
Mother Nature didn’t disappoint. After a short delay for the tide to fill in, the fleet hit the water – and Portland Harbour quickly turned into a cauldron of spray and adrenaline as the wind ramped up past 50 knots.
The event team introduced a new “Barcarès Rule”, raising an additional flag to signal that winds were officially over the 50-knot threshold – but it did little to deter the fearless riders from going full send.
As the crowds packed the shoreline, they were treated to some of the most explosive Big Air riding ever seen on UK waters. Max Tullett dominated the ladder, launching into massive loops and complex board-offs that had both the judges and spectators on their feet. Unshakable and on home turf, Tullett stormed through to claim victory in a final that will go down in British Big Air history.
By sunset, champagne corks were flying as Tullett not only took the PUKL title but also secured the British National Championship for 2025 – a clean sweep for the Portland powerhouse.
PUKL 2025 – Men’s Division
1st Max Tullett
2nd Baptiste Jacqumain
3rd Eliot Bouton
British Championships
1st Max Tullett
2nd Archie Luxton
3rd Alfie Luxton
Sunday brought slightly lighter winds – a welcome relief for some after the previous night’s celebrations – settling between 25 to 30 knots as the women hit the water.
2024 champion Polly Crathorne showcased her experience and composure under pressure, advancing steadily through the heats. In the dying moments of the final, she threw down a bold unhooked move that sealed her victory and reaffirmed her status as one of Britain’s most seasoned competitors.
PUKL 2025 – Women’s Division
1st Polly Crathorne
2nd Annie Branton
3rd Rosi Muensterer
British Championships
1st Annie Branton
2nd Rosi Muensterer
3rd Georgie Branton
Division Two delivered its own spectacle, blending youthful enthusiasm with veteran flair. Event videographer Harry Calvert swapped the camera for a competition jersey and impressed with a series of powerful, high-risk tricks – but it was local legend Jamie Gleaves who stole the show.
With a clutch final move, Gleaves edged out the competition to claim top honors, while Charlie Mann’s fluid style and height saw him earn a well-deserved spot in the finals.
PUKL 2025 – Division Two
1st Jamie Gleaves
2nd Archie Budd
3rd Matthew Mann
British Championships
1st Archie Budd
2nd Lukasz Kulisa
3rd Nicky Rossiter
Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and partners. The organizers extend a massive thank you to The BKSA, Duotone Kiteboarding UK, ION UK, Ecologia, CS Watersports, and Ocean Breeze Bar for their ongoing commitment to the sport and the British Big Air community.
As the sun set over the Jurassic Coast, one thing was clear: British Big Air is booming – and the best is yet to come.
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