Day 5 - Remarkable End to a Great Event in Adicora
The final day of the Copa Mundial de Kitesurf Adicora turned out to be a relaxed and calm day for many, as the competition turned up one last time for some racing action and the final awards ceremony. With freestyle double eliminations completed, riders arrived ready to carry out a few more races before ending the competition for good. Celebrations from the previous night seemed to lend to a decrease in spectator numbers; however, this only served as affirmation that the event has done its part to show Adicora a good time.
Starting in the early afternoon, racing commenced with a clean start and the day’s first on-water battle. As usual, Riccardo Leccese (COL) and Bryan Lake (USA) led the way, breaking away from the rest of the fleet and going head to head around each mark. Unfortunately for the racers, the wind proved to be somewhat variable, forcing several competitors to change their kites between races. Four races were eventually completed – Lake achieved first place on three of these four races, while Leccese achieved first place on the ninth race and second in the remainder.
Victor Adamo (BRA) was also very happy with his performance at this event, saying “I am very glad I was able to compete with the top racers, especially alongside Alvaro Cadena, because it pushes the level of sport and it pushes my riding.” Adamo has only been to a handful of PKRA events in past years; however, his third place finish at this championship event most certainly highlights his talent and potential. The other third place finisher at the Copa Mundial de Kitesurf Adicora, Mario Rodwald (GER), also couldn’t have been more excited about his first ever podium placement with the PKRA, and shared his stoke revealing “This has been one of my biggest goals for a long time!”
The awards ceremony took place on the grand stage at the event site, where many fans, friends, and spectators gathered to see the final unveiling of the official winners for both freestyle and racing. Proudly accepting their awards and accolades, each winner looked over the audience with big smiles and much appreciation. Many t-shirts could be seen throughout the crowd with the rider’s signatures splayed all around, possibly the most memorable – Bryan Lake’s autograph with the phrase “Muy Rapido!” in huge print.
Finally, with the winds decreasing and the cloud cover cooling down the sun-tanned spectators, PKRA competitors bid their final farewell to the place and people that have lent to such an incredible and memorable first-time event in Adicora, Venezuela.