GKA Air Games Germany – Go Time!

GKA Kiteboarding World Tour ‘Air Games’ 2018
Final Round: Fehmarn, Germany 24 – 28th August

Report: Jim Gaunt
Photos: Ydwer van der Heide 

This event in Germany is the fourth and final round in this brand new world tour that challenges twin-tip riders to throwdown the most all-round performances, blending powered new school handle-pass tricks with big old school moves and dynamic kite loop combinations into one competition. Read more about the format here.

The situation at the top of the World Championship standings is especially tight in the men’s division with Jesse Richman holding a narrow lead over Carlos Mario. In the women’s 13-year-old Mikaili Sol is yet to be beaten, but as Hannah Whiteley has been equally consistent in second, the women’s result is still all to play for. Read more on the championship points breakdown here.

International vibes at the opening ceremony this morning

As Germany is the strongest market in the industry, it’s no surprise to see a lot of national talent registering for this event and we’ll see a double elimination ladder run with 22 men and 10 women representing 10 countries. Meet the riders here.

Although changeable, as this northern corner of Europe can be at this time of year, the forecast is looking promising to deliver favourable conditions to contest this crucial final round.

Windguru promises. Things can always change, but let’s hope they don’t!

Skippers’ meeting complete, first possible start is coming soon. Riders will be judged on their three best tricks and must score one trick in each: kite loop, handle-pass and big air category. If the winds pick up strongly over the coming days, the head judge can adjust the scoring to take two best kite loops and big air tricks and just one handle-pass to better set-up the riding style for the conditions. For now, we’re hoping for 18 – 20 knots, which usually favours more powered freestyle.

Let’s see how the action unfolds! Here are the first heats. Round one is about to get underway. Follow updates on Instagram and stories.

(Click to enlarge heat boards)