Eindelijk wind bij KPWT

A consistent and strong wind is definitely established on the beach of Le Meridien between 25 and 30 knots. The Alizé has decided to stay and to please riders and spectators. The show of the Alcatel Kitesurf Pro goes on ! The race direction immediately launched the looser bracket in order to give a second chance to the riders who were out in the first ladder. That’s the opportunity for Mark Shinn to rectify yesterday’s unusual low performance against the local Thomas Roger. What a pressure for the leader of the Kiteboard Pro World Tour who has to defend his title ! That is the first time since the beginning of this year that Mark has to go through the looser bracket. His explanation is logical and perfectly human : “That is the end of season. I went from a competition to another. I barely spent three weeks at home. I am little bit tired and the jet-lag does not help at all “. Mark is what we call a Champion and as such he recovers and reacts quickly. His demonstration today accounts for his ranking in the world championship. Despite a few nice tricks, Arnaud Murcia did not pass the third round against Mark Shinn who shows his determination to win. Richard Boudia imposes his style in front of the Caledonian Sydney Fabre. Richard is now getting ready for his next heat in front of Mark Shinn. Today’s big surprise is the youngest Caledonian competitor of the Alcatel Kitesurf Pro : Tom Hebert. Fourteen years old, Tom is a future Kiteboarding champion. From the No foot to the Rodeo, Tom is absolutely outstanding on the water. High tricks, perfect landing, the judges were unanimous. He goes easily through the looser bracket until his heat against Mark Shinn. The battle between the two riders is rather tight but the competition experience and the technical facility of Mark Shinn gives him the victory. No change on the women side. The new-zealander Cindy Mosey confirms her superiority and she keeps the first place. Lou Chanson, familiar with strong wind, stays second and Hagit Oz third. Organizers and riders had a meeting at the end of the day in order to finalise the preparation of the Speed crossing which will take place tomorrow. Security is the main concern in such a competition. Not one single detail can be neglected. Fifteen riders will take the start. Seven boats and two jet-skies are following them. Departure is programmed at 1pm from the Phare Amédée. Who will beat the record of Manolo Barlet who did the crossing in 28 minutes ? Who will be on the highest step of the Alcatel Kitesurf Pro’s podium ? Nothing is set and everything can happen until the last day.