Trofeo Princesa Sofia IBEROSTAR - Kiteboarding Day 1
by 46 Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofía 28 Mar 2015 20:11 GMT
28 March - 4 April 2014
Trofeo Princesa Sofia IBEROSTAR day 1 © Barbara Sanchez / Sofia
Kiteboarders first out of the blocks
The kiteboarders were the first to inaugurate the 46th Trofeo Sofia IBEROSTAR with three races dominated by Spanish rider Florián Trittel and Elena Kalinina (RUS) in Es Portitxol. Meanwhile in the other clubs the Olympic classes were starting their preparations for the practice race on Sunday and the start of the competition Monday.
It was a first today in Palma with the Kites making their first appearance in the Sofia IBEROSTAR alongside the Olympic classes. Three races were completed in a breeze weakening throughout the day until the abandon of the fourth. The favourites came out on top with European Champion and vice world champion Elena Kalinina claiming the day with three wins. A fautless performance as well for Florian Trittel (ESP) who stole the day with an incredible margin over his opponents. Racing was cancelled during the fourth race when the kites started to hit the water in the dying wind.
"I really enjoy these conditions, the wind was light but stable" claimed Kalinina, her small frame suited for the lighter winds. "This is pretty similar to the conditions in St Petersburg where I train."
At the age of 17 she is already a veteran with four years of kiteboarding under her belt! "I sailed the optimist and the Zoom 8 when I was a kid, and also tried a bit of windsurfing but I was attracted to kitesurfing. I felt I could really make quick gains with a fast learning curve. As a new discipline kiteboarding is always evolving and is opening many possibilities. We are part of its history! What I really love is that I have the feeling of flying!"
About her opponents and racing with the men, Elena adds, "The level is really high both in the men and the women. Today these lighter conditions suited the lighter riders like me. In Kiteboarding you don't need power so much but a good technic and the right choice of equipment; this makes it possible for boys and girls to race together."
Racing continues Sunday for the Kiteboarding with up to six races planned.
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