China has completed the second stage of the world Cup of kiteboarding in the discipline of “Formula kite”. The competition was attended by 35 athletes from 15 countries. They arrived in the North-Eastern coast of China, in Weifang city, to fight for victory at the next stage of the World series of KiteFoil.
Regatta in Weifang is one of the most prestigious in this class. At this stage, played a record for world Cup prize money – 60 thousand dollars. The substantial prize Fund and the opportunity to test their strength in conditions of severe competition drew to China all the strongest riders.
Russian athlete Elena Kalinina – the trendsetter in the world of kitesurfing. In the first stage of the world Cup in Italy, a pupil of the Academy sailing took third place, losing its principled opponent of Daniel frost from the United States and the British Eleanor Aldridge. In China she came with a spirit to take revenge from opponents and to climb the highest step of the podium.
In the days of the regatta in the northeast of China has established a comfortable for racing and the weather conditions almost perfect for our sportswoman. The air in Weifang warmed up to 35 degrees, and the force of the wind was 6-12 knots. On the final day of the regatta Elena Kalinina in fierce fighting with American Kristin O’brien snatched the silver medal. Russian woman until the last race doubted that she would be able to bypass the competition and take second place. As in previous phases, the first in Weifang came another American Danielle frost and made a serious bid for victory in the overall classification of the world Cup.
“The last day was very difficult, – says Elena Kalinina. – Christine O’brien went very close to me. She was very good in the final races, and I thought that it will overtake me. Until recently, I wasn’t sure in your success, but that’s racing, everything is possible. I’m glad I was able to show such a good result. It was incredibly difficult and fun to race in such a strong fleet. Thank you all for this amazing week!”.
The third stage of the world Cup will also be held in China. From 12 to 17 September the athletes will be racing in Pintana.
Phillip Kovalev
the press service of the Academy sailing of the Yacht club of Saint-Petersburg
