South African Professional Kite Surfer Dies, Body Recovered off Cape Town Coast
- The body of Graham Howes has been recovered after the fearless Big Air rider went missing off Bloubergstrand on Sunday, 7 September 2025
- The kite surfer and entrepreneur failed to return home after the surfing event was over, which raised concerns over his whereabouts
- The death of the sportsman gathered different reactions on social media, with netizens paying tribute and consoling his family
The extensive search for South African pro kite surfer Graham Howes ended in tragedy on Monday, 8 September, when a motor yacht crew discovered his body at sea in Cape Town.
Source: Instagram
The 38-year-old founder of the kite surfing lifestyle brand Dirty Habits was last spotted on the water off Eden on the Bay in Bloubergstrand, Cape Town, on Sunday, 7 September.
Howes' failure to return home that evening after the event raised the alarm and triggered a wide-ranging rescue operation.
Howes found dead at sea
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The spokesperson for the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Craig Lambinon, gave an update concerning the unfortunate event:
“On Monday morning, the kite-surf sail and kite surfboard were located close to Robben Island. Later in the day, the body of Graham Howes was located and recovered at sea in the search area by the crew of a local motor yacht that had also joined in the extensive search efforts.”
Dirty Habits released an official statement on their Instagram page to confirm the death of their founder.
"Graham Howes has inspired so many of us. Now he will keep inspiring us from somewhere else 🙏🏼" the statement reads.
"His legacy will live on forever through this amazing community he built. RIP Graham, forever a legend ❤️ Pray for Graham 🕊️"
Friends and fans are remembering fearless kite surfer Graham Howes with heartfelt tributes on social media.
Source: Instagram
Candace.jane.liu said:
"17 special years with my love 💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔 Life will never be the same without this beautiful soul. Forever in my heart."
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jesserichman wrote:
"What an absolute LEGEND. Gosh, we will all miss you greatly. Thank you for all you brought. Not once did anyone feel left out around you, you simply made the world more fun, cheers to you my bru. ❤️❤️❤️
courtintheact shared:
"A soul that moved through life with me on many ways, inspiration, strength and enthusiasm for life. His time here left waves and memories that will last more than a lifetime 🫶🫡🤟🕊️"
naish_kiteboarding responded:
"Rest easy Graham, you will be missed on the water 💔 Thoughts are with your friends, family and your @dirtyhabitstv @jacobsen_kites crew!/ Naish team."
kevinlangeree reacted:
"Will never forget your smiles and great talks. Love you my friend ❤️❤️"
Paul Brauteseth commented:
"So so sad. Still a young man. Condolences to family and friends."
Mary Proust mourns:
"This is very sad news. How awful for his loved ones!"
Ina Veltman added:
"Non of these outdoor sports should be done alone, so that if things turn wrong, there can be help!!!! The young people are just far too ignorant. Sorry for the loved ones, God's grace upon you all."
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Pro Kitesurfer, DJ and Presenter Ruben Lenten posted a touching tribute to Graham Howes on his Instagram story.
The news about Howes' death comes after two coaches were punished for the death of a young rugby player in Cape Town, and also the death of New Zealand rugby star Shane Christie.
Cyclist's widow narrates ordeal with police
Briefly News also reported that Dennis Hammar’s widow recounted her encounter with the police before her husband’s death after being attacked in Cape Town.
The veteran cyclist died at the age of 77 after failing to recover from injuries sustained during a robbery attack.
Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
