The wind is a registered trademark of Ceará. Kiters from all over the world have their eyes on this region because of the favorable trade winds that allows athletes to practice the sport nearly year round. The strong and constant winds, along with the paradisiacal beaches, attract lovers of the sport. Between November 20th to 24th, the attraction will increase even more! During these days, the internationally know ”˜land of the wind’, on the beaches of Preá (12 km from Jericoacoara), will host the sixth and penultimate stage of the GKA (Global Kitesports Associaton) Kite-Surf World Tour, World Kitesurfing Championship in the Strapless category.
Photo: Elizeu Sousa
In search of the world title, and prizes totaling at 25,000 euros, are well-recognized names of some of the best riders in the world like the Cape Verdeans: Airton Cozzolino, Matchu Lopes and Mitu Monteiro. Along with the Brazilians who are promising young athletes in the sport: Sebastian Ribeiro and Pedro Matos.
The blue sky will share the space with colorful kites, and the sea will share the intensity of its waves with the strength and courage of the athletes. The radical spectacle can be seen in front of the Rancho do Peixe pousada, known for having one of the largest kite surfing schools in Latin America, and is also promoting the event.
Photo: Bruna Arcangelo Toledo
In the scenery designed by nature, Praia do Preá, also known as the “Mecca of Kitesurfing”, the competition could define the world champion of the event. For this, the athletes will have to “fly” over the sea and take the board with them. The biggest challenge is precisely this: To do tricks and maintain control over their equipment, since there is no strap that secures the board to the athlete’s feet. To successfully complete a trick, known as “Freestyle Strapless”, kitesurfers use the wind pressure and complete aerials of 360 degrees. The performance will be monitored and evaluated by the ambassadors of GKA, as well as having the seal and recognition of the Federação Internacional de Vela (World Sailing) and CBVela (Brazilian Kiting Confederation). The Ceará Kite Pro is supported by the Brazilian Kiteboarding Association (ABK). ABK is a non-profit legal entity and the exclusive reason for its existence rests on the proper promotion of Kitesurf.