The kite surfing community and loved ones gathered at Small Bay to celebrate Graham Howes’ adventurous spirit
Small Bay, South Africa (18 September 2025) – Over the past week, social media has been flooded with tributes to Graham Howes, as friends, fellow kite surfers, and the community remember his adventurous spirit and positive energy.
The Bloubergstrand community came together at Small Bay to pay tribute to well-known kite surfer Graham Howes, who tragically lost his life at sea earlier this month. Surfers and supporters marked the occasion with a paddle-out ceremony, forming a circle in the water and placing flowers in remembrance of a man who had touched many lives.
Graham went missing on Sunday, 7 September, after heading out for a solo kite surfing session. A large-scale search followed, with the National Sea Rescue Institute, Metro Rescue, local volunteers, and fellow surfers all joining forces. The way so many people rallied together spoke volumes about how deeply Graham was valued within the community.
The tribute at Small Bay reflected the deep respect and affection the community held for him. Many speaking of his energy, positivity, and the way he connected with others in and out of the water. The gathering also served as a reminder of the close bond within Cape Town’s surfing and kite surfing circles, where people come together in times of both celebration and grief.
Graham’s impact stretched beyond sport. He had been outspoken about mental health, sharing his own journey and working alongside other athletes to open up conversations around the pressures faced in action sports. Just last year, he collaborated on a project aimed at breaking the stigma and encouraging vulnerability, inspiring many by showing that strength and openness can go hand in hand.
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His family has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support shown during the search and in the days since his passing. While they continue to grieve, the community’s tribute stands as a lasting testament to Graham’s adventurous spirit.
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