September 10, 2019
Kalinina – second in Weifang
In China, the second stage of the World Cup in kiteboarding in the discipline "Formula kite". The competition was attended by 35 athletes from 15 countries. They arrived on the northeast coast of China, in the city of Weifang, to fight for victory at the next stage of the KiteFoil World Series.
The regatta in Weifang is one of the most prestigious in this class. At this stage, prize-winning prizes for the World Cup are played – 60 thousand dollars. A solid prize fund and the opportunity to test their strength in the face of fierce competition attracted all the strongest riders to China.
Russian athlete Elena Kalinina is a trendsetter in world kitesurfing. At the first stage of the World Cup in Italy, a pupil of the Sailing Academy took third place, losing to her principal rival Daniele Moroz from the USA and British Eleanor Aldridge. She came to China with the mood to take revenge from her rivals and rise to the highest step of the podium.
In the days of the regatta in northeast China, weather conditions comfortable for racing were established, which almost perfectly fit our athlete. The air at Weifang warmed up to 35 degrees Celsius, and the wind power was 6-12 knots. On the final day of the regatta, Elena Kalinina, in a fierce struggle with the American Christine O’Brien, pulled out a silver medal. The Russian woman until the last race doubted that she would manage to get around the competitor and take second place. As at the previous stage, the other American, Daniela Moroz, came first in Weifang and made a serious bid to win the World Cup overall standings.
“The last day was very difficult,” says Elena Kalinina. “Kristin O’Bryan walked very close to me.” She was very good in the final races, and I thought that she would overtake me. I until the last was not sure of my success, but this is a race, everything is possible here. I am glad that I was able to show such a good result. It was incredibly difficult and interesting to race in such a strong fleet. Thanks to everyone for this amazing week! ”
The third stage of the World Cup will also be held in China. From September 12 to September 17, athletes will race in Pintan.
Philip Kovalev,
Press Service of the Academy of Sailing of the Yacht Club of St. Petersburg
93 September 10, 2019 # 9457
Chief Editor
