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On November 6th 2006, the Swiss kitesurfer Philipp Knecht completed a non-stop downwinder of 300.570 kilometres and thus became the new world record holder in kitesurfing. His journey lasted twelve hours and nine minutes and covered the distance between Cumbuco and Cambocim on the northeast coast of Brazil. The attempt almost failed due to one detail.

The wind forecast for Monday predicts a decreasing stability of the wind conditions; a wind speed between eight and ten knots is expected. These circumstances result in a rather spontaneous decision whether to attempt the record or not. Philipp Knecht decides on Monday morning at three o’clock to undertake the world record attempt. At 5.30 in the morning, he lifts his kite into the air and thus starts the world record attempt at Cumbuco beach. The wind blows with only twelve knots and it starts raining; circumstances that cost Philipp Knecht a lot of energy in order to move on. After an hour, the rain ceases and the clouds disappear. Due to these weather conditions, the wind speed increases up to 36 knots. After ten hours, the main goal Jericoacoara becomes visible and hence the first triumph is accomplished; namely the excess of the official world record of 213 kilometres completed by the Andreya Wharry from England. As a result of his excellent physical condition, Philipp Knecht decides to continue his journey. The waves become stronger as the high-tide progresses and that causes Philipp Knecht to end his attempt during the sunset. He completes a distance of 300.570 kilometres in twelve hours and nine minutes with an average speed of 13 knots. The faultless North ION-Equipment, a highly motivated team of ten people, eight power bars and ten litres of Powerade contributed to this successful new world record.