April 2024 kicked off the competition season in style with an event aptly named ‘GR8 STONE Big Air Comp’!
Hosted by Greatstone Kite & Foil Club and Infinity Sport Kitesurfing School & Shop, it made its debut at the stunning Greatstone Beach, and boy, was it epic!
The vibe was electric throughout the GR8 weekend, fuelled by a crew of passionate volunteers, each bringing their unique skills to the table.
Bright and early on the big day, the ground staff sprung into action, prepping the competition area and securing the beachfront. BKSA seasoned judges, the legendary George Dufty and Craig Smith, set the tone with crystal-clear instructions and seamless event management. The event announcements and heat ladders were set in Buccaneer Sessions to smooth the day and to help with day communication.
Saturday saw the amateur men take the stage, greeted by winds ranging from 15 to 22 knots NNE. It was a day of camaraderie, with competitors pushing the boundaries amidst shifting tides and gusts. From daring unhooking maneuvers to jaw-dropping tornado spins, the action was non-stop. As the winds tapered off towards evening, anticipation mounted for Sunday’s finals.
But the excitement didn’t end there! Saturday evening lit up with a beachside barbecue, courtesy of Infinity Sport Kitesurfing School, where happy campers and competitors alike shared stories and eagerly awaited Sunday’s forecast.
Sunday dawned with a promise of adrenaline as the wind picked up and enthusiasm soared. The women from Girls Kite Together kicked things off, riding the high tides with sheer determination. From newcomers to seasoned pros, each rider showcased incredible courage and skill, with Rosi soaring to the top spot with her fearless loops.
Then came the men’s amateur finals, a breath taking spectacle of aerial prowess and diversity. Ed clinched the top spot with an awe-inspiring performance, leaving the crowds buzzing with excitement.
As the wind continued to whip up, reaching speeds of up to 33 knots, it was time for the pros to shine. The stage was set for a display of pure talent and daring feats, with young guns and the forever-young Jordan Hurst fearlessly taking to the skies. From jaw-dropping rotations to gravity-defying flips, every trick was executed with style and finesse, culminating in a show-stopping finale and Max Tullett claiming the coveted first position. Talk about a grand finale!
The weekend was rounded off with the prize giving and presentations. With amazing prizes from: Harlem Kitesurfing, Eleveight Kites, Reedin Kites, Core Kites , ION UK, I Love Camber Sands, Big Air Master UK, Top Banana ServicesAll in all a gr8 weekend at GR8 Stone. Infinity Sport Kitesurfing School displays so much enthusiasm for the sport, why? because we love the sport so much!OFFICIAL RESULTS:Amateur Men:1. Ed Pratt prize Harlem PRO Kite2. Morgan McNamara prize CORE Link HarnessPRO Women:
- Rosi Muensterer Eleveight Kites Master S twintip
- Helen Bedford I Love Camber Sands Holiday Voucher
- Natalia Pavlovskaia prize Big Air Master UK T-shirt and Greatstone Kite & Foil Club Mug
PRO Men:
- Max Tullett prize Reedin Kites Dreamstick Bar
- Jeremiasz Kuczma prize ION UK Voucher
- Jordan Hurst prize Big Air Master UK T-shirt and Greatstone Kite & Foil Mug.
Everyone had a big air blast!! We are now ready for the next one.
Stay tunned GR8 STONE picture gallery is in the making by Chris Michael
Authors: Sarah and Stephen Dorking
