46th Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia Kicks Off with Kiteboarding

46 Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia Photo: Barbara Sanchez/Sofia

46th Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia Photo: Barbara Sanchez/Sofia

The kiteboarders were the first to start the 46th Trofeo Sofia IBEROSTAR with three races dominated by Spanish rider FloriÃ¡n Trittel and Elena Kalinina (RUS) in Es Portitxol.

It was a first today in Palma with kiteboarders making their first appearance in the Sofia IBEROSTAR alongside the Olympic classes. The kiteboarders were also the first to start, completing three races in progressively weakening winds until the abandon of the fourth. The favorites came out on top with European Champion and vice world champion Elena Kalinina (Russia) claiming the day with three wins. A faultless performance was had as well by Florian Trittel (ESP) who stole the day with an incredible margin over his opponents. Racing was cancelled during the fourth race when the kites started to hit the water in the dying wind.

46th Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia Photo: Barbara Sanchez/Sofia

“I really enjoy these conditions, the wind was light but stable,” claimed Kalinina, her small frame suited for the lighter winds. “This is pretty similar to the conditions in St. Petersburg where I train.”

At the age of 17 she is already a veteran with four years of kiteboarding under her belt. “I sailed the optimist and the Zoom 8 when I was a kid, and also tried a bit of windsurfing but I was attracted to kitesurfing. I felt I could really make quick gains with a fast learning curve. As a new discipline, kiteboarding is always evolving and is opening many possibilities. We are part of its history! What I really love is that I have the feeling of flying!”

About her opponents and racing with the men, Elena added, “The level is really high both in the men and the women. Today these lighter conditions suited the lighter riders like me. In kiteboarding you don’t need power so much but a good technique and the right choice of equipment; this makes it possible for boys and girls to race together.”

Kiteboard racing continues Sunday with up to six races planned.