Defender GKA Hydrofoil Big Air World Cup 2023 in Sylt: A Thrilling Water Sports Adventure
Defender GKA Hydrofoil Big Air World Cup Sylt – Day 3
20-25 August 2024
A bit of rain didn’t deter the excitement as the day commenced with the quarter-finals of the men’s Defender GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Sylt 2024. Heat one featured Kiko Roig (ESP) competing against Gabriel Benetton (BRA) in a high-stakes seven-minute freestyle duel, followed by eight minutes of wave riding. Benetton prevailed, showcasing remarkable skill, particularly in the wave segment, advancing to the semi-finals and eliminating the previous year’s champion.
In an electrifying heat three, comeback king James Carew (AUS) faced off against long-time favorite Matchu Lopes (ESP). Both riders pushed their limits, leading to significant crashes. Carew captivated the judges with the largest loops seen in competition, earning a score of 9.5 for a kite loop tic tac. Despite challenging conditions with winds exceeding 35 knots, Lopes was unfortunately eliminated, heightening the anticipation for a potential Carew vs. Airton Cozzolino final.
The unexpected unfolded in round four, heat four, when top-ranked riders Airton Cozzolino (ITA) and Nicola Abadjiev (BUL) struggled to score initially. With merely ninety seconds left, Cozzolino fought to secure a spot in the semi-finals. After an impressive series of turns on a wave, Cozzolino managed to post a score, but ultimately, Abadjiev knocked him out of the competition, marking an astonishing upset.
The talented Abadjiev remarked, “This is my best result so far. I’ve been on the full World Tour for four years, and I’m thrilled to have won against Airton, who is a huge name in our sport.”
Moving to the women’s category, the semi-finals showcased a fierce match between Kesiane Rodrigues (BRA) and Capucine Delannoy (FRA), with gusts surpassing 40 knots. Delannoy executed strong freestyle maneuvers, while Rodrigues fought valiantly. Ultimately, Delannoy secured her place in the women’s final with a narrow victory, setting up a showdown against Camille Losserand (SUI), the winner of heat one.
In the men’s tense semi-finals, Benetton bested Casati, while Carew advanced against Abadjiev amidst the relentless winds and rain. As clearer skies began to emerge, a sizeable crowd gathered for the final between Carew and Benetton. Carew initiated with an impressive opening trick while Benetton, aiming for a triple front roll, made his mark with a massive 9.18 score. The competition intensified in the final moments, with both athletes exhibiting incredible skill.
As the final wave segment commenced, Carew faced a slight equipment mishap but persisted, determined to secure victory. Meanwhile, Benetton found his rhythm, showcasing exceptional turns among the waves. The climax of the contest unfolded as Carew and Benetton exchanged lead positions, culminating in a nail-biting finish.
In a thrilling conclusion, James Carew from Australia emerged as the 2024 Defender GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Sylt champion, with Gabriel Benetton taking second place and Lorenzo Casati finishing third. Benetton expressed his excitement, stating, “That was a crazy day; the wind was around 60 knots and the craziest thing I have ever seen. It was a great final, super close, and I’m stoked about my performance.”
Congratulations to the winners, and stay tuned for more action in Sylt as the women’s finals are set to conclude tomorrow.
Defender GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Sylt 2024 Results
- 1. James Carew (AUS)
- 2. Gabriel Benetton (BRA)
- 3. Lorenzo Casati (ESP)
- 4. Nicola Abadjiev (BUL)
Emily Carter, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Vancouver, has a deep-seated passion for the ocean that has shaped her career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of British Columbia, Emily has become known for her captivating and detailed storytelling. Her work vividly portrays the excitement of sailing and the distinct maritime culture of Canada, earning her a respected place in the sailing community. When not writing, Emily enjoys navigating the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and participating in local regattas, always eager to embark on her next maritime adventure.