Silvaplana, Switzerland - 24/08/23 – A spectacular day of racing unfolded on Day 4 of the U21 Worlds & iQGames Silvaplana, characterized by impeccable sailing conditions that allowed for a total of 5 races in both the men's and women's fleets. This resumption of intense competition followed a racing-free day due to unfavorable weather on the previous day. Adding to the excitement, this marked the debut of the Live Broadcast, enabling enthusiasts to experience the action from the comfort of their homes.
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Credit: @SailingEnergy / @iQFOiLClass
The day dawned with the ideal wind speed ranging between 15 to 17 knots, accompanied by the sun's warmth, setting the stage for another day of racing. In the men's fleet, Gaspard Carfatan from France showcased remarkable skills, clinching victory in 4 out of the 5 races. This commanding performance lifted him from 3rd to 1st place in the ranking, overtaking Max Beaman, who slipped to the third position. Securing the second position was the Italian windsurfer, Leonardo Tomasini.
The women's fleet saw Adi Millo from Israel exhibit tenacious determination, maintaining her lead and preserving her top position by clinching victory in the second-to-last race of the day. The day commenced with a slight twist for the 19-year-old, with a surprising 14th and 18th finish in the initial races. However, she swiftly regrouped, securing a series of strong performances, resulting in a 3rd, 1st, and 5th place, showcasing her resilience. Kristyna Pinosova from Czech Republic secured the second spot, followed by Marion Couturier from France in the third position.
The challenging nature of racing at Lake Silvaplana was a shared sentiment among all participants, stemming from its high elevation of 1815 meters above sea level. The thinning oxygen levels in the air posed a challenge, often leaving sailors breathless and occasionally feeling unwell after pushing really hard during the race. However, brief periods of rest between races enabled competitors to recharge and swiftly regain their competitive spirit.
The Silvaplana event continues to provide an amazing event location, providing an unforgettable showcase of windsurfing excellence against the backdrop of Switzerland's stunning landscape.
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