KPWT Super Grand Slam in Germany comes to an end

The first event of the 2009 Kiteboard Pro World Tour came to an end yesterday, and with five out of six days with enough wind for competition it was a big success.

A double elimination in Freestyle was completed, as well as a single elimination in Wave Masters, plus nine course races. Only the Kiteloop competition could not be completed.

75 competitors from 18 nations were welcomed by the crowds at Brandenburger Strand in Westerland, Sylt. Besides the top competitors from the international pro scene, a lot of local riders had made their way up to Germanys most northerly island.

In the mens freestlye competition, two germans ended up on the first places, both finals in single and double elimination were held between Stefan Permien (GER, Kitefactory) and Mario Rodwald (GER, North), and both heats were won by Mario. Peter Tyushkevich (RUS, Flexifoil) in third, defeating Vincent Tiger (FRA, F-One) who made his way through the double elimination back to the loosers finals.

A similar situation in the womens freestyle competition, with Gisela Pulido (ESP, Airush) winning both finals against Kristin Boese (GER, Best). Hannah Whiteley (GBR, JN) won the loosers finals agains Helen Thompson (GBR, Naish)

The Wave Masters event was held in good conditions, with the strongest wind of the whole competition and waves of approximately 1.5 m, which allowed for nice surfing style and even tube rides. Mitu Monteiro (CAV, F-One) showed his extra-ordinary class against Jan Marcos Riveras (DOM) in the final, Jesse Richman (USA, Cabrinha) in third ahead of Abel Lago (ESP, RRD).

The womans competition in the waves was another time dominated by Kirsty Jones (GBR, North), defeating Kari Schibevaag (NOR, Ozone) and Ainhoa Garcia (ESP, Airush) in third ahead of Kristin Boese (GER, Best).

The course racing competition was dominated by Bruno Sroka (FRA, Cabrinha), but both Abel Lago (ESP, RRD) and Sean Farley (MEX, North) gave him a hard time. Even after nine races and two discards all three of them were only a few points apart.

The womens course racing was clearly decided with Kristin Boese (GER, Best) and a perfect score. Ainhoa Garcia (ESP, Airush) and Caroline Adrien (FRA, Naish) in third.

The event came to an end with the pricegiving ceremony right at the promenade at Westerland Beach, with perfect sunshine for the winners of this competition.