2024 Kiteboarding Asian Championships - New champions emerge
by Marina Psychogyiou 22 Sep 06:21 PDT
17-22 September 2024
2024 IKA Asians medalists © IKA Media / Matias Capizzano
The 2024 Formula Kite and TwinTip:Racing Asian Championship concluded under dramatic circumstances as a government-issued weather warning halted the final day of racing.
The warning, which also affected local fishermen, highlighted the unpredictable nature of Daishan County's weather.
A championship marked by dramatic conditions
Held in the picturesque Daishan County, known for its stunning archipelago and vibrant maritime culture, the championship faced significant weather challenges from the start. The event, already delayed by a day due to a typhoon, saw competitors battling high waves and strong currents on the first day. Despite these conditions, the sailors showcased remarkable skill and resilience.
The second day brought a stark contrast, with calmer seas and favorable winds, described by many as "the best racing day of my life." This brief respite allowed for intense and thrilling races, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion.
Weather forces abrupt end
However, the championship's momentum was abruptly halted when the government issued a weather warning, prohibiting all activities on the water. This decision, which even affected local fishermen, underscored the inherent challenges of sailing, a sport deeply dependent on favorable weather conditions. The safety of participants and locals was paramount, and the organizers had to respect and adapt to Mother Nature's whims.
Celebrating our champions
Despite the abrupt end, the championship saw remarkable performances over the past days. The prize-giving ceremony, attended by several state and government officials, celebrated the achievements of the competitors.
Max Maeder from Singapore, the Paris 2024 bronze medalist, reclaimed his title from 2022 with a dominant performance, winning 8 out of 12 races. Maeder's consistent excellence set a high standard for the competition. Reflecting on his competitors, Maeder praised the Chinese sailors for their fearlessness and skill, noting their potential to become a formidable force in international competitions.
Qibin Huang, the defending champion and China's Olympic entry, faced a challenging start with a disastrous first day but showed resilience by improving his performance on the second day. Despite his efforts, Huang finished in 6th place. He expressed determination to come back stronger, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport.
China kept the title in the women, with Wan Li achieving a significant milestone in her sailing career and showcasing her exceptional talent and determination.
Narapichit Pudla, also known as Yo, added another title to his impressive record in the TwinTip:Racing category. The Thai veteran's experience and skill were on full display, earning him well-deserved recognition.
Khristopher Ken Nacor emerged as the best among many talented sailors from the Philippines, marking a strong return to international competition after a brief hiatus. The team's performance highlights the growing talent within the Philippines sailing community.
With the championship now concluded, attention turns to the next events in Sardinia this October.
Results Formula Kite Men
1. Maximilian Maeder, SGP - GOLD
2. Haoran Zhang, CHN - SILVER
3. Jiangang Wu, CHN - BRONZE
Results Formula Kite Women
1. Wan Li, CHN - GOLD
2. Chenxue Liu, CHN - SILVER
3. Meijing Xiao, CHN - BRONZE
Results TwinTip:Racing Men
1. Narapichit Pudla, THA - GOLD
2. Khristopher Ken Nacor, PHI - SILVER
3. Xing Lin, CHN - BRONZE
Results TwinTip:Racing Women
1. Yulu Mo, CHN - GOLD
2. Qiuyang Li, CHN - SILVER
3. Jingle Gao, CHN - BRONZE