The world’s fastest kitesurfer and Vineyard Haven resident Rob Douglas broke two world records earlier this month at a competition in La Palme, France.

Racing at the Prince of Speed Kitesurfing World Championship on June 14, Mr. Douglas broke the first record traveling 40.41 knots for one nautical mile, which is equivalent to 46.4 miles per hour on land. He broke a second record the following day, surpassing his earlier speed and sailing 41.49 knots on the one nautical mile.

The title for fastest kitesurfer for the one nautical mile was previously claimed by Sylvain Hoceini, a French sailor who set the record at 39.11 knots in 2020.

Mr. Douglas began kitesurfing in 2002 and now holds five world records. He initially became the fastest kitesurfer in the world in 2008.