Speed Windsurfing World Cup Karpathos Aug 20 - 26

by Markus Schwendtner on 13 Aug 2008 Karpathos prepares for thrilling action as the clock counts down to the 2008 Speed Windsurfing World Cup and the one-off European Championship

For the third time in a row, the small village Afiartis on the idyllic island of Karpathos is preparing to play host for the world‘s fastest men and women in the speed windsurfing scene. From August 20th till 26th all the big names of the sport will compete for points counting towards the 2008 Speed World Tour and the one-off European Speed Windsurfing Championship Title.

In the men’s fleet, all eyes are set to the reigning world champion and 500m world record holder Antoine Albeau from France, who clearly dominated the season so far. His strongest opponent is expected to be again Bjorn Dunkerbeck, living windsurfing legend. But also F2-Shaper Patrik Diethelm from Italy and current tour leader Cyril Moussilmani are expected to dispute the places on the podium.

Some more world class windsurfers from other disciplines are joining the speed tour this year, like local and Greek record holder Philip Adamidis, Chris Lockwood from Australia and Irish record holder John Kenny.

Also the women’s fleet is very strong for this second major event of the 2008 season, including 2007 world champion and current tour leader Valerie Ghibaudo as well as second ranked Marion Raisi. After the excellent experiences from the past years, Karpathos is expected to show exceptional conditions again.

The spot named “Devils Bay” has a wind average of 5-7 beaufort, cross offshore. The beach is fine gravel. During summer it usually has a constant and reliable wind between 5-7 beaufort, with turquoise blue 24 degree warm water. In July and August during the peak of summer, the wind can get quite strong in Devils Bay and regularly reaches strengths above 7 beaufort. The flat water close to the shore gives a perfect speed arena.

www.speedworldcup.com