Last year’s event proved a bit of an anti-climax as weak winds made conditions difficult for competitors.

However, things are looking promising for the 2008 event as the forecast indicates the winds will blow in force.

“A lot will depend on the conditions. Last year’s event didn’t really produce the winds we were after, but hopefully this year they will show up and give everyone a good ride,” Miller said.

Now in its 28th year, the Mambo Classic attracts the cream of kite-surfers from around the world and is considered one of the best events of its kind.

Miller has been contesting the event since he moved to Tura Beach from Coolangatta four

years ago.

Originally a wakeboarder and surfer, Miller decided to give kite-surfing a go and has not looked back since.

“Pop used to build ski boats so I was always around the water,” Miller said.

“I started wakeboarding when I was about 10 and after starting work in a surf shop my real interest in the sport grew from there.

“As soon as I moved down here I started doing kite surfing. Merimbula is a great location because of the sea breezes. It’s one of the best locations out there for kite surfing.

“I’ve been competing in the Mambo Classic since my arrival to the area.

“I think it’s an excellent drawcard for the local community. I’m looking forward to the competition and I’ll be giving it my best shot.”

Miller’s best result came in 2006 after picking up the Open Kite performance award.