Gabriele Steindl: Professional Kitesurfer & Freelance Writer - Action, Lifestyle & Travels
23
May 04
PKRA World Cup Surfers Paradise, Knokke, Belgium, 15-22 May 2004
This Year it was the first time that Belgium was chosen to be hosting a PKRA World Cup Event. Many of us riders, however, already knew Knokke, due to the annual ‘Northsea Open’, an independent kitesurf competition, organised by the local Yacht Club and open to everyone. I have also participated in that event last year where I came 2nd (in only my second official competition) and was happy returning to Knokke.
Belgium surely does not count as kiters’ dreamlocation … however, the incredible hospitality of the residents, the excellent organisation of the event – lots of ‘no wind activities’ such as a skateboard halfpipe; dancing O’Neill beachbabes; as much free Red Bull for the riders as they could take; cool parties almost every night; beach BBQ’s; etc. – and the many, many visitors surely let the participants forget about the rather chilli conditions in and out of the water … yep, conditions could have been better..!?
Even more girls showed up than at the event in Austria and the majority – I was amongst the lucky who were prequalified – had to go through qualifiers. We had some two and a half ‘rideable’ days after all and managed to finish the male and almost the whole ladder of the female double elimination – except for the final, when the wind died completely. I was riding some good heats and was content with my performance, however, had to capitulate against current Vize-Worldchamp Petra Goeschl in the Single and Ingrid Koellbichler – currently ranked 3rd – in the Double elimination. Way more satisfied with my form at this event compared to the lPKRA tour stop in Austria, I finished 7th.