The prestigious Formula Kite Youth & Masters Worlds 2014 took place in the beautiful capital of Sardinia - Cagliari. The event, organized by the Yacht Club of Cagliari in conjunction with the International Kiteboarding Association, was particularly significant as it was the first time that the Youth and Master fleets competed together but in a separate championship. This was a natural progression thanks to the constant development of Kite Surfing during the last few years. The development of kite boarding has seen a stratospheric growth, not just in numbers taking up the sport, but in the technical evolution of the equipment, innovative racing formats, and expansion of styles of kiteboarding or kite racing -- whilst always holding true to the natural freedom the sport offers -- whatever your age, style of kiting or favorite kiting venue or place. Kite surfing, whether racing or recreational, is firmly established as one of the world's most popular and accessible water sports. There are numerous events all over the world and a comprehensive competition schedule, whatever your preferred racing discipline.
Poetto beach was full of life and fun as more than 50 riders from 19 nations gathered to take their chances in a battle for the crown. The competition saw many title contenders and all of a very high standard so it was no surprise that all the riders began their preparations early ahead of racing. The experience of the Kite Masters aged over 35 years combined with fresh talent of the Under 21's Youth fleet. This format resulted in some great experiences on the race course as well as on the shore as the more experienced riders share their advice with the young guns whilst drawing on their passion and energy.
In the race area the Champaign conditions during the whole championship saw smiles all round. Riders were happy to see the wind reach speeds of 25 knots making their boards almost fly along the course. Great speed, physical power and mental toughness were key for an optimum performance. It was obvious from the qualification series that the battle for the Youth World title would be a tough one with Maks Zakowski from Poland and Maxime Nocher from France vying for the win. In the Green fleet Tomek Janiak from Poland ruled the waves putting an early claim for the title.
In the ultimate medal and champion crowning day at the 2014 Kiteboard Youth & Masters World Championships. You could feel the suspense in the air, as the world's top 10 riders in the Youth & Masters fleets prepared themselves for the 4 medal races which would decide the World Champion.
In the Masters fleet, Tomek Janiak from Poland went into the day carrying a 6 point deficit to leading rider Wilson Veloso from Brazil. Tomek started strong, taking the first race win, followed up with a second place and then two more wins. But with Wilson right behind him, finishing in second and claiming the other race win, Tomek's impressive scorline just wasn't enough to get past the Brazilian. So Wilson walked away with gold, Tomek silver, just 4 points behind, and securing the bronze medal was Spain's Pedro Garijo Velasco, who sailed a conservative four races to finish in 3rd, 5th, 3rd, 4th and claim bronze with an 8 point margin. Stunning racing.
In the Youth Worlds fleet, the air was alive with tension as the world's best youth sailors went head to head in the final showdown.
Five days of racing for the cream of youth and masters kiteboarding here in Cagliari, Italy was a real showcase of the excitement and thrill of kiteboard racing. The Kiteboard Youth & Masters World Championships enjoyed a perfect combination of shoreside hospitality, organization and weather conditions -- yet again sealing Poetto Beach as a venue of choice for kiteboarders.
The Kiteboard Youth & Masters World Championships 2014 wrapped up with a fun filled medal ceremony. Lots of applause and celebrations. The riders also emphasized their thanks to the Organizers for a superbly organized Championship. See you next year!
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