Trofeo Sofia Iberostar – Bright future for Kiteboarding

by Trofeo Princesa Sofía on 31 Mar 2015 2015 Trofeo Sofia Iberostar – The focus was on the kitesurfers during the first three days, and especially on Spanish rider Florian Trittel.

The 20 years old has won five out of six races so far and proved his superior speed on the water by winning most races by a big margin. When asked about the recipe for success, Trittel doesn't hesitate: 'Good gear and lots of training! You really need to know your equipment and how to chose the right gear for the right weather! This is important for speed. You also need to train non-stop, if you spend only a week without riding, you lose a lot. I train in Tarifa with the other Spanish and also Russians and Polish. It is a great spot with plenty of wind and sun!'

Kiteboaders all come from different backgrounds, Florian Trittel did his class on the 29er and with three world championship titles to his account the obvious move would have seemed to be the 49er. 'I wanted to move to an Olympic class and when I decided to stop the 29er I considered all my options. In May 2012, ISAF voted to include Kite in the Olympic so I didn't think twice and bought equipment and started training hard. When the decision was reversed I was really disappointed but decided to keep riding kites. I just love it and I believe kiteboarding has a bright future on the Olympic scene!' On the transition between 29er and kite, he adds: 'From my years in the 29ers I have learned about organising a campaign, training and set priorities and get to the top faster. So far, it is working!'