Kiteboarding Champions Return to Sardinia for World Championship Showdown
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Sardinia is once again playing host to the world’s top kiteboarders, as athletes like Toni vodisek and Daniela Moroz make triumphant returns to competition after overcoming personal challenges and extended breaks. The 2024 Kite Formula World Championships,currently underway in Quartu Sant’Elena,are showcasing thrilling races and reaffirming the appeal of this stunning Italian island.
Marks a critically important comeback for both Vodisek and Moroz,each having navigated their own paths back to the pinnacle of the sport. Vodisek, a 25-year-old from Izola, istria, secured a World Championship title in Cagliari in 2022 and is now relishing the prospect to compete again in the region. “Here the summer stretches. And I enjoy the return,” Vodisek stated, highlighting the appeal of Sardinia’s climate and the joy of being back on the water. His return is notably poignant, coming after both a hiatus following the Olympics and a knee operation.
Moroz, a 24-year-old Californian, is also finding her stride after a period of inactivity. She previously claimed her sixth world title in Cagliari three years ago and is now competing with a renewed sense of purpose. “I love coming to Sardinia, it is always beautiful,” Moroz shared, emphasizing the unique conditions and the fun of competing in the region. She took time away to pursue university studies and work, but is now fully focused on regaining her competitive edge.
Qualifying Series Concludes, Final Series Looms
The third day of the championships was characterized by fluctuating mistral winds, shaping the final standings of the Qualifying Series.Maximilian Maeder currently leads the men’s division with 8.0 points,narrowly ahead of Riccardo Pianosi at 9.0.Vodisek demonstrated his prowess by winning the first regatta of the yellow fleet, securing strong finishes throughout the day.
The women’s division sees Jessie Kampman leading, followed by European champion Lauriane Nolot and Daniela Moroz. Despite a challenging start in the first regatta, Moroz has consistently placed among the top five, even securing a regatta win on day two.
from Friday, October 3rd, the competition will move into the Final Series, with men competing in Gold and Silver Flights and women in a single fleet. Four regattas are scheduled for each fleet, starting at 2pm local time. The event will culminate in the Medal Series on Sunday.
Sardinia: More Than Just a Competition Venue
Beyond the intense competition, both Vodisek and Moroz have expressed their appreciation for Sardinia as a destination. Vodisek noted the region’s beauty, stating, “Sardinia is one of the most beautiful places in Europe: even without kite, it is indeed perfect for prolonging summer.” He’s enjoying the relaxed atmosphere in Quartu Sant’Elena,taking advantage of local amenities like bike rides,bowling,billiards,and ping pong.
Moroz is actively documenting her experience on Instagram, sharing the beauty of Sardinia from sunrise to sunset. She even playfully noted learning a local coffee rule: “I learned that he does not take cappuccino after 12 (laughs).”
Looking Ahead to Los Angeles 2028
Both athletes are already setting their sights on the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. vodisek, fueled by his silver medal in Paris, expressed a strong motivation to improve and compete at the highest level. Moroz, with Los Angeles being her hometown, sees the Games as a particularly exciting opportunity.”They will be the house Olympics for us, in the city where I live,” she said.
The Sardinia Grand Slam is serving as a crucial stepping stone for both athletes as they prepare for the challenges ahead. As Vodisek eloquently put it, “I think I do the most beautiful job in the world, which allows me to live in an ‘office’ like this.” And to all those who follow us I say: this is a beautiful place to come on vacation!
