2025 Formula Kite European Championships in Urla, Türkiye - Day 3
by International Kiteboarding Association 16 May 20:01 BST
11-19 May 2025
Stormy weather, racing abandoned in Urla © IKA Media / Robert Hajduk
The International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) is proud to have been recognized as a Clean Class by Sailors for the Sea, a leading ocean conservation organization.
This achievement underscores the IKA's commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible kiteboarding practices. Through its events and partnerships, the IKA has been working to make a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
Following sailing events in 2024 in Urla, Turkiye, where environmental issues have been identified, the IKA collaborated with Fenerbahce sports club and regional authorities to address plastic pollution in the sea. The efforts have resulted in a 10-meter-long trash barge being deployed this week to filter plastic waste from the waters, dramatically improving the situation.
"We're not just competing - we're building relationships with local communities and leaving a positive legacy," said Markus Schwendtner, Secretary General of the IKA. "This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible kiteboarding practices."
Sailors for the Sea will work with the IKA to run Clean Regattas throughout their international circuit, promoting best practices and supporting innovation in event sustainability. This partnership will enable the IKA to further reduce its environmental footprint and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices.
A shared commitment to ocean conservation
The IKA and Sailors for the Sea share a common goal of protecting the ocean and promoting sustainability in watersports. By working together, they aim to drive positive change and inspire a new generation of ocean stewards.
The Clean Regattas program is designed to promote environmental sustainability and responsible practices in sailing events. Through this program, the IKA and Sailors for the Sea will work together to:
- Reduce waste and pollution
- Promote eco-friendly practices
- Support local conservation efforts
- Educate participants and spectators about ocean conservation
Solar powered sport
The Formula Kite European Championships are being hosted at the expanding Fenerbahce elite sailing center at Urla. The legendary sports club has been investing in solar power to run the facilities. A complete powering of offices, a cantina, locker rooms and more was a necessity since infrastructure along this scenic bay is limited, similar to many regatta venues around the world. The result has been an impressive and still developing energy network on the compound that fits perfectly with the group's sport and sustainability goals.
Forced day of rest
On day three of the event, Urla delivered a blow-out, with racing cancelled, triggering gold fleet split in men's fleet. The sharp end of the European Championships starts Saturday with the beginning of gold fleet racing. Positions stand for the top 19 with Italy's Riccardo Pianosi leading the pack with all firsts and Sam Aben (NED) sneaking into the gold fleet in 19th.
The women continue racing as a single fleet and Britain's Lily Young heads into the weekend still on top in first, two points ahead of Argentina's Catalina Turienzo.
Racing continues through Monday's medal series, where the top-eight will have a shot to be crowned European champions.
Results are being updated as they happen, racing is being tracked, and the final days will be live streamed on FaceBook and YouTube.
Results Men
1. ITA, Riccardo Pianosi
2. SGP, Maximilian Maeder
3. GRE, Cameron Maramenides
4. CZE, Vojteck Koska
5. FRA, Benoit Gomez
6. BRA, Bruno Lobo
7. ITA, Lorenzo Boschtti
8. FRA, Axel Mazella
Results Women
1. GBR, Lily Young
2. ARG, Catalina Turienzo
3. TUR, Derin Atakan
4. FRA, Lauriane Nolot
5. POL, Izabela Satrjan
6. ESP, Gisela Pulido Borrell
7. FRA, Lysa Caval
8. AUS, Breiana Whitehead
Full results and more information