Barack Obama enjoyed his new found freedoms on his short post-presidential holiday, according to a home video and new photographs posted by British billionaire businessman Richard Branson.
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The former Democratic President has been holidaying with his wife Michelle on the British Virgin Islands, after leaving the White House on January 20.
The couple was joined on their vacation by Sir Richard, who shared some of their experiences online on Tuesday.
Sir Richard said the last time the former President tried his hand at some watersports was eight years ago, before he entered the White House. According to CNN, the Secret Service imposes restrictions on the activities a president can partake in for safety and security reasons.
"So it was tremendous to offer him the chance to learn to kitesurf," Sir Richard said.
Mr Obama beat his British rival in a friendly challenge on the water.
"Barack and I both fell many times, but we kept trying again and again and made progress over the days," he said.
"We were neck and neck until the last run on the last day, when I got up on the foilboard and screamed along for over 50 metres, three feet above the water.
Former US President Barack Obama kitesurfing. Photo: Jack Brockway/Virgin.com
"Being the former president of America, there was lots of security around, but Barack was able to really relax and get into it," Sir Richard said on his blog.
Obama holidays with Sir Richard Branson on the British Virgin Islands. Photo: Jack Brockway/Virgin.com
The Obamas have now left the British Virgin Islands and returned to Washington DC, where they will continue to live while their younger daughter Sasha finishes high school.
Mr Obama has established his own foundation to promote progressive activism amongst the next generation, and is also expected to release a memoir in the coming years.
Fairfax Media
