Lighthouse to Leighton: Mullaloo firefighter Theresa McKirdy up for new challenge

LOCAL kite surfers will travel to Rottnest Island to take on some of the world’s best in the Lighthouse to Leighton race on Saturday.

Racers from suburbs including Beldon, Mullaloo, Ocean Reef, Quinns Rocks, Madeley and Darch will compete in the 19km showdown.

Mullaloo firefighter Theresa McKirdy stands as a big local hope, having finished third in the women’s category last year.

Kite surfing world champion Aaron Hadlow, from the UK, will return to defend his Twin Tip title from last year.

Hadlow said Perth was one of his favourite kitesurfing destinations.

I learnt a lot from last year and think I can do even better,” he said. “It’s a unique race and great to see so much local interest.”

A total of $9125 prize money is on offer.