Kona Worlds 2019 at Lake Garda is about to kick-off
by Daniel Nordlund 14 Aug 2019 10:09 BST
15-18 August 2019
Fleet - 2019 Kona World Championship © Magi Foster
Today the 14th Kona One World Championship is inaugurated in Torbole, Lake Garda. Altogether 72 racers from five continents and 14 countries will compete. Among the major favorites are 17-year-old American Alex Temko reigning champion, Dutch Huig-Jan Tak winner 2016 of both Kona Worlds and Kona U23 Worlds and Tim Aagesen from Denmark world champion in windsurfing disciplines.
17-year-old Alex Temko was the youngest Kona World Champion when he conquered the title last year in Clearwater, Florida.
"I am ready to defend my title. Garda is a beautiful place, very windy which is my favorite. But, I am ready for any conditions", says Alex Temko.
Among the other favourites is Dutchman Huig-Jan Tak. He was the winner of the Kona Worlds 2016 and Kona U23 Worlds in 2016.
"The competition this year is tougher than ever before with a very experienced fleet. But I am here to reclaim my title. The goal is set", says Huig-Jan Tak.
Among the other main favorites are Swedish Bjorn Holm with three previous golds in Kona Worlds and the Danish windsurfing legend Tim Aagesen. He has been conquered World Champion in Mistral, Kona One and Formula and has won the course race World Cup as professional.
The Championship is arranged by Circolo Surf Torbolo a well-reputed race organization that will also host the RS:X World Champions later this season.
"Welcome to all Kona competitors. We're looking forward to a fantastic event, both on the water and on land", says Armando Bronzetti, President of Circolo Surf Torbole.
The championship will begin with a tune-up race today followed by the opening ceremony tonight. First race day will be August 15 and the final August 18.
Sanctioned by World Sailing, Kona One is a fast-growing windsurfing class, attracting both young talents and experienced sailors with long windsurfing careers. It is a one-design class where all sailors use identical boards.
One sail is used in all conditions, and its size is a function of the sailor's body weight—making it possible for everyone to race together. Pumping is not allowed in this class of windsurfing, placing the emphasis on true sailing skills and tactics.
For more information visit the event website.