Overview
A professional kiteboarder (kitefoil racer) from Dorset, UK. She is a historic athlete who became the first-ever gold medalist in the women’s “Formula Kite” division, which made its official debut as an Olympic sport at Paris 2024.
Career
She began dinghy sailing at the age of 7 at the local Parkstone Yacht Club. She transitioned to kitefoil racing in 2018 after it was announced that Formula Kite would be included in the Paris Olympics.
In a short period, she climbed to the world’s top level, winning the Formula Kite European Championships and claiming a silver medal at the World Championships in 2023. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she won a magnificent gold medal in the waters of Marseille, etching her name in history as the first female Olympic champion in kiteboarding.
Her expertise extends beyond kiting to sailing in general; in 2024, she competed in the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup as a member of the British “Athena Pathway” team. In the 2025 New Year Honours, she was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in recognition of her significant contributions to the sport.
Sponsors & Brands
For her racing setup, she receives support from the hardware brand Allen Brothers, utilizing their blocks and thimbles in her system. She also participates in event booths for brands like Ocean Rodeo as an Olympic gold medalist, sharing her racing experience and helping to promote the latest gear.
Personality & Friendships
She has a unique anecdote of being “dragged” onto boats by her mother when she was young, initially being skeptical about going on the water. She cites her “grandfather” as her role model in sailing.
In her private life away from the water, she enjoys “painting from time to time” as a hobby and is deeply passionate about sustainability efforts to protect the marine environment for future generations.
Furthermore, she is closely associated with fellow British pro rider Francesca Maini, both serving as representative female riders for the BKSA (British Kitesports Association). With Ellie reaching the pinnacle of Olympic racing and Francesca conquering the Red Bull King of the Air (Big Air), they stand together as ultimate role models driving the UK’s female kite scene and inspiring the next generation.
Quotes & Anecdotes
Because a heavier weight provides a speed advantage in Formula Kite racing, she underwent a grueling physical transformation ahead of the Paris Olympics, intentionally cutting back on exercise to gain 17% of her body weight. She stated that this meant she could no longer enjoy her hobbies like cycling or eating a healthy diet, showing just how stoic and determined she was to secure the Olympic gold medal.
Competition Results
- 2023: Winner, Formula Kite European Championships (Portsmouth)
- 2023: Runner-up (Silver Medal), Formula Kite World Championships
- 2024: Winner (Gold Medal), Paris 2024 Olympics Formula Kite Women