In memory of Graham Howes: Fundraiser launched to build NSRI rescue boat in honour of kiteboarding icon

The family of internationally renowned kiteboarder Graham Howes has announced a fundraising campaign to build a new National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) rescue boat, which will be named in his memory.

The announcement coincides with the start of the Red Bull King of the Air competition at Kite Beach, Blouberg, the world’s premier big-air kiteboarding event. With kiteboarding athletes and fans from across the globe descending on Cape Town, the Howes family hopes to channel the shared spirit of ocean adventure into support for this life-saving initiative.

“He had the same passion as the NSRI, so it would be great if there were a boat in Graham's memory that belongs to the NSRI,” says his mother, Gerry Howes. “Just to know that Graham still has a presence in this world.”

Graham Howes was more than just a world-class athlete. He was a mentor and a community builder who connected thousands through his brand, Dirty Habits, a culture of rebels, dreamers, and trailblazers united by a passion for extreme sports, creativity, and living fearlessly.

When he tragically lost his life at sea doing what he loved most, the global kiteboarding and extreme sports communities responded with an outpouring of grief and love.

“When people speak of Graham, the words that come up again and again are life, energy, and kindness,” says his father, Richard Howes. “He had a rare gift. Whoever he was with felt seen, cared for, and valued.”

The NSRI’s Station 18 in Melkbosstrand launched an immediate and sustained search when Graham went missing during a kiteboarding session in September. For the family, that effort became a source of strength.

“I just remember how grateful I was that everything possible was being done to find my brother,” says Craig Howes, Graham’s brother.

“While it’s obviously not the result we were hoping for, I’m really glad we found him. You get a level of closure. It's the spirit that embodied my brother, helping people. That’s what NSRI is.”

His mother, Gerry, adds:

“People don't realise until you've lost a child how difficult it is. When they eventually found him, they consoled us and gave us peace. We couldn’t have got through that night without the NSRI.”

The Graham Howes Rescue Craft will be built as part of the NSRI’s ongoing rescue fleet expansion, and every donation received will go directly to this purpose.

“To have a rescue craft named after Graham would be amazing,” says Richard. “Knowing Graham continues to sail the sea, helping others in distress.”

“You’re not actually donating for Graham,” Craig adds. “You’re donating for anyone else, your family, a friend, or even yourself. One day, you might need a rescue boat.”

The Howes family encourages contributions from water sports communities, families, and ocean lovers.

“I would like families whose children do water sports to want to contribute, because it could save their son,” says Gerry.

To read more about Graham’s story, support the fundraiser, and watch a message from his family, please visit: www.nsri.org.za/support-us/grahamhowes