When the even window opened up for the Red Bull King of the Air on Monday, riders could already see Wednesday was well in the green for what could be the first day of competition. They were right, with a solid 25+ knots blowing over Table Mountain and into the event site at Big Bay, South Africa.

The worlds best riders all wanted to be a part of the Red Bull King of the Air. Only 24 made it, and they did so because these guys are all big air specialists. Sure, they might bust out a bit of wakestyle every now and again, but when the wind blows, they strap on the bindings and pull the trigger with careless abandon. That stuff is spectacular, and that is why the Red Bull King of the Air is the worlds most watched kiteboarding contest.

Some of the riders progressing through to the finals was previous King of the Air champ Kevin Langeree, Nick Jacobsen and Aaron Hadlow, although everyone expected that. A couple of newcomers also progressed through, and some riders surprisingly did not. Youri Zoon, struggling with a brand new kite from Slingshot couldn't find the kickers he needed. Still adjusting to his gear after being dropped by Best kiteboarding, Zoon will be fighting for his spot in the finals during the next day of competition later this week.

From the current forecasts, it looks like Sunday will be the day we've all been waiting for with conditions similar to day one of riding, just a little stronger. Riders are out riding every day in mediocre conditions to train in Big Bays unique conditions, and the worlds media are ready and waiting.

Check back next week to see how it all went down, and in the meantime watch the spectacular live feed from day one of the Red Bull King of the Air.

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