The second day of the Sardinia Grand Slam, the final event of the IKA KiteFoil World Series, passed in vain as participants waited for the ideal conditions to race. Between chess games and conversations about beaches, food, and city sights, the day was filled with anticipation
The awaited rain arrived, followed by unstable winds with strong gusts over 30 knots, making conditions too dangerous for both athletes and the new equipment being tested in Cagliari. After a packed schedule on the opening day of the Sardinia Grand Slam, Thursday at Poetto Beach turned into a non-racing day, as the weather thwarted any attempt to compete.
Initially, the race committee had scheduled the first start for 3:00 PM, with mixed fleets as in Day 1. However, the early optimism about a return to favorable conditions, despite the rain, quickly dissipated. Winds increased from 10-20 knots to 35, with low clouds settling over the Gulf of Angels.
At 5:10 PM, the official decision was made to cancel the day’s events. Racing will resume tomorrow, October 4th, with the finals scheduled for Saturday, October 5th.
PIZZA, BEACHES, AND WEATHER: CAGLIARI AND SARDINIA THROUGH THE EYES OF KITERS
After the 2:00 PM skippers’ meeting, athletes passed the time in their own ways: playing frisbee, chess (like Max Maeder), on their computers, in the water, or chatting by the beach. Conversations ranged from wind conditions to food and beaches, highlighting the many reasons why kiteboarders enjoy Cagliari, whether they are returning or visiting for the first time.
“I was in Cagliari two years ago for the Formula Kite World Championship,” said Tomas Pires de Lima from Portugal, bib number 37, “and I already appreciated both the city and the beaches in southern Sardinia. I’ve competed here before in the Italian Olympic Classes Championship, and now I’m here for the Sardinia Grand Slam. I arrived a few weeks ago in a van, discovering some truly fascinating places, like Is Solinas and Chia.”
“What I like about Cagliari is that you can race in various conditions,” added Jacobo Espi, bib number 50, “and the temperatures are pleasant, even during a storm. I’m also tempted by the local food specialties, and the city center is truly charming.”
“It’s my first time in Sardinia,” said Leo Collado, bib number 80, “but I was told everything about it, from the great weather to the perfect wind conditions for racing. During these days at Poetto Beach, I was surprised that it’s so warm during the day and cool in the evenings in October. I was also pleasantly surprised by the mistral wind coming from the land, which is ideal for kiting. After a race, we can’t wait to grab a pizza or ice cream at one of the local spots in the city. After the World Series, I’ll spend some time exploring the city, as I’m curious to see the historic center and learn more about Cagliari’s cultural aspects. Poetto Beach is beautiful and livable, and in October it doesn’t feel overcrowded by tourists.”
SUN AND MISTRAL TOMORROW: SIX RACES AND LIVE STREAMING
On Friday, October 4th, six races are scheduled, with sunny weather and a pleasant mistral wind forecast. Both Friday and Saturday, October 5th, the final stage of the IKA KiteFoil World Series will be live-streamed on the event’s and IKA’s Facebook and YouTube platforms. The event will reach over 150 countries worldwide, with dedicated coverage and special features. Additionally, daily highlights will be available on Facebook and YouTube.
MEN – Ranking after 5 races
- Axel Mazella FRA – 9p
- Maximilian Maeder SGP – 10p
- Benoit Gomez FRA – 12p
WOMEN – Ranking after 5 races
- Jessie Kampman FRA – 95p
- Gal Zukerman ISR – 100p
- Maggie Eillen Pescetto ITA – 107p
Cagliari, October 3rd, 2024