Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup on fire!
The sun-soaked beaches of Corralejo witnessed an epic beginning to the Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup, as the world champions of the discipline, Maximilian Maeder and Lauriane Nolot, claimed the lead after a thrilling first day of competition.
As the clock struck 10:30 this morning, the Corralejo Nautical School transformed into a sea of yellow, marking the commencement of this prestigious event. Manuel Martinez, the president of the Canakite Experiences Sports Club and the event organizer, officially inaugurated the competition by summoning the athletes for a warm welcome.
Yesterday’s registration for the Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup saw a remarkable turnout, with a total of 62 competitors hailing from 21 different countries. Notably, 14 of them have already secured a spot in the upcoming Olympic Games, underlining the global significance of this event.
Elite KiteFoil Athletes Take Center Stage
This weekend promises a showcase of the elite in KiteFoil, featuring current world champions Maximilian Maeder and Lauriane Nolot, alongside European champion Riccardo Pianosi from Italy. The shores of Flag Beach will witness the prowess of these internationally renowned riders, creating a spectacle for KiteFoil enthusiasts.
The International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) President, Mirco Babini, plays a crucial role as the race director, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the competition. Babini highlighted the event’s importance for athletes, providing a platform for teams before the start of the competitive year on the Formula Kite circuit. “I thank the organization for bringing us all together, and I am confident it will be a wonderful event, with optimal conditions for the discipline,” he remarked.
Institutional Support and Commitment
The support for the Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup extends beyond the sporting community. During the press conference, the Mayor of the La Oliva municipality, Isaí Blanco, pledged to continue improving facilities and services to make the island more attractive for international teams. “Fuerteventura’s goal is to be recognized not only for its sun and beach but also for sporting events and for being chosen by elite athletes,” Blanco affirmed.
David Fajardo, the councilor for tourism and the environment, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of turning La Oliva into a premier tourist destination. “The goal is for our coastline to be even more known among athletes from top competitions, like Gisela Pulido, who has decided to make this her training ground,” Fajardo stated.
Marlene Figueroa, insular councilor for Tourism, Blue Economy, and Biosphere Reserve, expressed gratitude to the athletes who have been training on the island for several months. She emphasized the joint effort to consolidate Fuerteventura as a training ground and a hub for water sports, contributing to the local economy.
Gisela Pulido’s Endorsement
Ten-time world champion Gisela Pulido, who has been training in Fuerteventura throughout the winter, shared her enthusiasm for the location. “There are plenty of teams that have come here to prepare. I don’t want to leave the island, and I would like to come and live here,” Pulido expressed, highlighting the island’s allure for elite athletes.
Provisional Standings and Gratitude
The first day of competition concluded successfully, with Maximilian Maeder and Lauriane Nolot leading the provisional standings. This inaugural edition of the Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup has been made possible through collaborative efforts, with the support of various organizations and sponsors.
The Canakite Experiences Sports Club, in collaboration with the Royal Canarian Sailing Federation and the Canarian Federation of Latin Sailing, orchestrated the event. Sponsors, including the Tourism Department of the Fuerteventura Island Council, Promotur Canary Islands, and the subsidy from the Government of the Canary Islands, played a pivotal role in bringing this spectacular event to life.
The unconditional support of the La Oliva City Council, spanning areas such as the Mayor’s Office, Sports, Tourism, and Beaches, underscores the community’s commitment to fostering world-class sporting events on the island.
Conclusion
The Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup has kicked off with unparalleled excitement and energy. As elite athletes showcase their skills against the backdrop of Corralejo’s stunning beaches, the event has not only garnered international attention but also solidified Fuerteventura’s position as a premier destination for KiteFoil enthusiasts.
With institutional support, commitment to improving facilities, and the endorsement of world-class athletes like Gisela Pulido, the future of the Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup looks promising. As the competition unfolds over the weekend, the world awaits the crowning of champions and the continued rise of Fuerteventura as a hub for elite water sports.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Fuerteventura KiteFoil International Open Cup unfolds its thrilling chapters on the shores of Flag Beach.
