Mexico launches Hydrofoil Pro Tour 2017

The 2017 Hydrofoil Pro Tour got underway with the first stop of the six event circuit on March 26-29 in La Ventana, Baja California, Mexico. Fifty-seven foil kiters from 23 Countries gathered to battle it out on the course that saw various wind conditions to make even playing field for all racers.

Maxime Nocher (MON) took the title but not far behind was Oliver Bridge (GBR) in second place, followed by Axel Mazella (FRA), then Riccardo Leccese (ITA), and closing the top 5 is Florian Trittel (ESP). The Europeans saw the bar set high and have met that bar and surpassed the American athletes during the opening of the 2017 race season.

There were six women registered with Daniela Moroz (USA) winning followed by Gina Hewson (AUS), and Cath Dufour (CAN).

There are major benefits of getting the top hydrofoil racers and manufacturers together, being leaders in the industry. There are conversations that are facilitated when chilling on the beach, waiting for wind and the chit chat that apres kite happy hour entices.

The topics that rang loudly were new developments in safety (harnesses, helmets and vests) after 2 of the 57 athletes injured their ribs during training sessions – Sam Bullock and Joey Pasquali, who toughed it out and continued to support the races as spectators.

The riders and judges also discussed the changes in some of the kite sailing rules, how it will affect the outcomes of protests and how race directors have new responsibilities to the riders to set the course with these new rules in mind.

While boards turn in to magic carpets, flying 1 meter above the water and fins turn in to underwater airplanes with wings that boil, the kite racing board set up is redefined by riders and manufacturers as sailing vessels, no longer called a simple board. “We are sailors,” said Moroz, named female Champion of the competition and ROLEX Yachtswoman of the Year.

Tour details – Event details – Results

Source: Olivia Rose