Course Racer can register for the competition at the "Kitesurf-Trophy" (german nationals) for an event which is right after the KTE in Germany and gain more Worldranking points.  

First Rider are registered for the second Tourstop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe. 

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will visit the top spot of The Hague / Scheveningen September 26th.-29th 2013. 

The neighborhood of St.Tropez welcome the first European Tour stop in Kitesurfing

With the two first days of wind, sun, 95 riders from over 14 countries coming to the South of France – Almanarre Kitemasters finished with a full freestyle event and 8 counted course races. The tour starts with 46 racers - 39 men and 7 women – as well as 49 freestylers - 37 men and 12 women. The first edition of the European tour stop on the Côte d’Azur, was a great event with a parallel execution of the two disciplines.    The first day brought strong 30-35 knots. The action was intense right from the beginning and we started early in the morning with both competitions. Freestylers were riding with 7 meters kites and after to get used to the conditions, the spectators could seen some awesome tricks. Riders like Stefan Spiessberger (Austria), who was kicked-off in round 4 in the single elimination, went straight through the doubles and won unstoppable six heats until the quarter final, when he was beaten by Liam Whaley (Spain).

The final in the doubles, featured Mario Rodwald (Germany) against Whaley. Both of these riders have had an amazing start and demonstrated great progression over the wintertime. That heat was full of power, variety and action for the beach crowd. With a great powerful double S-Bend Pass and a Low Mobe 5, Mario got it and won the first European tour stop. The final women’s heat took place between Sabrina Lutz (Germany) and title-holder 2012 Annelous Lammerts (Netherlands), when Sabrina crashed her kite and Annelous advanced. A super women final was announced and finally the first women tour stop title goes to Germany as well - Sabrina Lutz (NKB).  

Focusing on course racing, the first two competition days were quite eventful. Racers entered the water early, hungry for days full of racing action. With regard to the rough sea, the course provided tactical challenges that made not only spectacular for racing, but excellent spectating as well.

On day one, French rider Maxime Nocher (NKB) won three of four races following by Julien Kerneur, also from France. British race women Steph Bridge from UK, holds first place positioning, while Dutch rider Katja Roose followed her on second place. The riders were always quite close and handled out arresting battles. The second day was a smoother running. Some kites moved in perfect synchronization alongside one another. With the fleet on bigger kites, Maxime Nocher, Julien Kerneur, Blazej Ozog and Florian Gruber were riding closed to each other in rotational positioning. Day three and four, brought a bout of very light, or better, no wind.

The course director, Markus Schwendtner, adapted due to these light conditions. But unfortunately they realized their wishful thinking did not materialize. The wind didn’t picked up on these two last days.

In a nutshell, ten races were sailed, with two discards in total. French riders Maxime Nocher and Julien Kerneur, managed to achieved top placements, with Maxime on first, Julien on second and Blazej Ozog on third position. 

The women fleet, was leading by Steph Bridge (UK). Steph crossed fifth time the finish line first, followed by Katja Roose (NED). Aga Grzymska (POL) earned a third placement.

The end of the first MINI KTE event was marked with the closing ceremony and the distribution of the trophies and prize money. We could not have a better way to start the season with a greatful event and tough conditions in the beginning.

The next stop of the season is on the German island Sylt. The rough Northern Sea and strong winds will be a perfect spot for the 2nd stop of the year, from 2nd July to 7th July. 

Go to www.kitesurftour.eu to see the latest contest news and schedule information.


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An incredible wakeboarding session prevailed over course racing action

Day three of the MINI KTE tour stop in France brought an bout of very light, or better, no wind. The double elimination in Freestyle was already effected, while Mario Rodwald (GER) and Sabrina Lutz (GER) captured victory of that 1st european tour stop. The focus of the day was concentrated on course racing. 

The sunny day, however, had different plans. Passing the time with laying in the sun for a fresh-faced sun teint by savoring a lolli-pop of Chupa Chups, enjoying a fresh RedBull, chatting in social medias or educating oneself in Wifi time in the rider’s area of the event site.

That while, all race competitors hoped with every calm breeze that passed, that better conditions were moments away. Course director, Markus Schwendtner, adapted due to these light conditions.

Some racers are looking to hold onto their positions and others ready to redeem themselves. For the last possible start, the wind did begin to pick up, and riders acted quickly to pump up their 17m kites in preparation. 

Unfortunately they realized their wishful thinking did not materialize, and the wind began to die just as suddenly as it had picked up.

Freestyle riders like Hannah Whiteley, Liam Whaley and Bram Bast sat around the rider’s area to enjoy and to relax for another upcoming party night of Hyères, nearby St Tropez. For a refreshing moment in the afternoon, head judge Bas Koole, announced an incredible wakeboarding session, which spanish rider Liam Whaley obtained. During that time, the race crew was waiting outside for any mermaids, those who didn’t appear and finally released the riders around 6pm. 

Tomorrow, racers arrive to the beach at 10am for the first skipper’s meeting of the day. Wind is expected to be light as well.

Stay tuned via Twitter and Facebook for the latest information throughout the day. To view pictures of the day, check out the daily pictures link below.

hey - spread the word about kitesurfing and support our tour - become a facebook fan on http://www.facebook.com/kitesurftoureurope 

Mario Rodwald (GER) and Sabrina Lutz (GER) won the Double Elimination and Course Racings continues

Competitors woke up to another beautiful and clear day in the South of France, Almanarre. With a good breeze and the possible promise of contestable winds, Freestyle and Course Racings continued. Showing up prepared and ready for anything, the event site quickly filled up for the first skippers meeting.

Blowing side onshore from the right in the morning, the first possible start was done at 10h30. With a not anticipated light lunch blow, it became a waiting game into the afternoon at 2pm for the Freestylers. Riders as well as spectators remained ready to wait it out for going on with Double Eliminations and its finals.

At that time, racers changed after a sunny lunch break to bigger kites and continued the battle on the water. Six races were done on that 2nd competition day. The course provided tactical challenges that made not only for good racing, but excellent spectating as well. The race leaving spectators on the beach standing in anticipation of what was to come. Some kites moved in perfect synchronization alongside one another, while others moved back and ahead in search of the perfect lay line.With the fleet on bigger kites, Maxime Nocher (FRA) and Julien Kerneur (FRA) are still leading the fleet, while Florian Gruber from Germany helds still fourth place after Blazej Ozog (POL). Steph Bridge (GBR) managed to hold top placement. Katja Roose (NED) earned a consistent second.

With around 20-25 knots of wind, the doubles continued around 2pm. Early on, riders such as Stefan Spiessberger (NKB) from Austria came back and advanced until the quarter finals beaten by Liam Whaley (Cabrinha).

The day ended with the finals, which featured Mario Rodwald (Germany) against Liam Whaley (Spain). Both of these riders have had an amazing start and demonstrated great progression over the winter time. In this heat, Mario won out. The sheer number of tricks completed by him bring the victory of the 1st European tour stop, closing out the day with much excitement and enthusiasm. Notably, the final women’s heat took place between Sabrina Lutz (GER) and title holder 2012 Annelous Lammerts (NED), when Sabrina crashed her kite and Annelous advanced. A super women final was announed and finally Sabrina (NKB) won the women’s double elimination of the first MINI KTE tour stop.

After another long day on the beach and on the water, the day will finish with a big concert night and a local DJ. All racers will be estimate tomorrow morning for the 3rd skippers meeting of the European Championship Tour 2013.

For tomorrow, the forecast looks to light wind conditions. But once the competition begin, fans and followers can tune into twitter or follow updates on facebook.

hey - spread the word about kitesurfing and support our tour - become a facebook fan on http://www.facebook.com/kitesurftoureurope 

Great conditions and action boom on the water!

The KTE 2013 season officially started this morning with the 1st skippersmeeting hold by course director Markus Schwendtner and freestyle head judge Bas Koole. 

The tour starts in France/ Almanarre with 46 Racers - 39 men and 7 women – as well as 49 Freestylers - 37 men and 12 women. This first edition of the european tour stop on the Côte d’Azur, is going to be a great event with a parallel execution of the two disciplines.   

The registration was hold yesterday afternoon with over 95 riders from 14 countries coming to compete in the bay of Hyères. The riders has had more than 6 month to train and to learn new tricks to prepare. The best european riders are here to claim the 2013 european title in Freestyle or to get points for the IKA World Ranking in Course Racings as well to take home a part of the 10.000€ prize money. 

The first day brought strong 30-35 knots. The action was intense right from the beginning. We started with the men’s single elimination and right from the start we could see that the they trained hard over the winterbreak.

The men were riding with 7 meters kites and after to get used to the conditions, the spectators could seen some spectacular tricks. MINI KTE 2012 title holder Mario Rodwald from Germany (NKB) and german starlet Sabrina Lutz (NKB) won the Single Elimination. With eyes wide open the specators got a glimpse of a pretty bright kitesurfing future. The day ended with heat #34 in the double elimination. All of the riders demonstrated incredible progression and will go on tomorrow morning.

Focusing on course racing, the competition day proved to be atcionful as well. Racers entered the water in the morning, hungry for a day full of racing action. At the end of the first day, french rider Maxime Nocher (NKB) won 3 of four races (1 discard) following by Julien Kerneur (RRD). The riders were always quite close and handled out arresting battles. British race women Steph Bridge from UK (NKB) holds first place positioning by winning 2 of 3 races and hopes to keep it that way for the following competition days. On second place after three races, Katja Roose from Netherlands is fighting to get the leading position, too.

We could not have a better way to start the season with a greatful opening ceremony and perfect conditions to run Freestyle heats and Course Racing legs. Tomorrow nonstop action is planned. With competitors of an high level, the action is going to be top graded. Check out our news on facebook or follow us on twitter.

hey - spread the word about kitesurfing and support our tour - become a facebook fan on http://www.facebook.com/kitesurftoureurope 

The online Registration for the first stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe at the Almanarre Kite Master is now closed. If you still like to take part at the competition you need to register at the Event (Wednesday 29th May 15:00-17:30).

Tomorrow (Saturday 25th) evening (8pm) we will close the online registration. If you want to compete in Hyeres/Almanarre at the Almanarre Kite Master you need to hurry up. 

The KTE Crew will leave Hamburg in about 13 days. A few days later the first Rider will fly or drive to Almanarre to compete at the first stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe. See below who will fight for the podium. 

The Kitesurf Channel continues reporting about the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2013. 

Only 28 more days until the first MINI KTE Event in France/Almanarre. Here you will find the first registered Rider for that Event. 

British Champion 2012 in Freestyle, Dan Sweeney, will participate in all MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe Events 2013. For this he will get the 3rd Wildcard from the KTE.

The first stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe is only 38 more days away. In France/Almanarre the "Almanarre Kite Masters" will host the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2013.

Munich. 2013 sees MINI partnering the Kitesurf Tour Europe once again and picking up from last year’s shared success. MINI began backing one of Europe’s fastest-growing trend sports in 2012, the world’s first car maker to do so.

Louk Timmer from the Netherlands is happy to receive the second Wildcard from the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe for Freestyle Men during the competition in France.

My name is Louk Timmer and I have my roots in the Netherlands. When I was fifteen years old I took my first kite lesson and it changed my life. After one year of kiting I started to teach other people as well, this way I could save some money for travelling. Since last year I'm riding for North Kiteboarding and ION and I am very happy about it. 

My plans are to do the whole tour, it would be the first year I would do a whole tour. Off course it is exciting for me how I will do during the first stop in France, but my main goal is to have fun because than I am at my best. I know what I can and can not do but I'm not affraid of taking some risks when I'm in a underdog position!

Higher Jumps and faster Course Racing will be presented on crowded beaches by the European top Kiteboarder attending the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2013.

After a summer break with usually lower winds, the Netherlands will be the highlight of the second half of the season: Kitegatta will host the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe. The final countdown for the 2013 chapter will be in Castelldefels a suburb of Barcelona. From 10^th - 13th of October the Spanish waters of the Mediterranean Sea use a memorable date: October 12th. Columbus discovered America and some Riders will discover his monument from the coastline of Barcelona harbor. By then the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will have determined the official European Champion for Freestyle in Kitesurfing.

For every Event the KTE will host 4 Wildcards for new talents - the other 4 Wildcards will be host by the Local Organizer. Sander Bos is the first one in Freestyle Men to receive a Wildcard from the KTE.

Flysurfer will continue the partnership with the Kitesurf Tour Europe and will on top support the Crew with Softshell-Jackets!

Like last year Blankforce Kiteboarding is an Industry Partner!

In Castelldefels Riders and Visitors had the chance to test their Boards.

The Riders Database and the Riders Login are online now. 

We are happy to announce that Lewis Crathern will be our Tour Commentator during the KTE 2013. 

The BEST-Teamrider is 4 x British Champion, he did the Brighton Pier Jump in 2010, became first at the RedBull Len10 Megaloop Challenge 2012 and 5 th at the Red Bull King of the Air 2013.

The past six years he commentated for example the RedBull Megaloop Challenge, the RedBull King of the Aur, the Big Air Open, the British Championships and the Atlantic Watersports Games. 

BEST Kiteboarding will continue supporting the Kitesurf Tour Europe as an Industry Partner. 

Team Rider Konstantin Tuludis

We are very happy to have BEST Kiteboarding on Board again and look forward to the upcoming season.

To check out their products or the Team have a look at their Website. 

News about the upcomig season will be out as soon as possible. For this moment we have some news from Rike from the sunny Cape Town! 

Do you have any questions to the KTE Riders we mentioned before? Your chance to send us a via Facebook questions - we will try to find the Riders and get their answers. Your chance to win an original competition Lycra! 

Post your best picture from your kitesession at our Facebook Fanpage - in a week we will announce the lucky winner! 

It's time to share with you our confirmed tour dates for this year's season. We look forward to the action and hope we will see you at all our events. 

We are happy to announce our first industry partner for the season 2013 – North Kiteboarding.

Their Team Riders like Mario Rodwald, Stefan Spiessberger, Luke Whiteside, Florian Gruber, Maxime Nocher, Steph Bridge and Sabrina Lutz were very successful at the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2013. They push the sport and share the passion for Kiteboarding as much as we do. With a wide range of different kites and boards they cover all needs of a kitesurfer. Next to the gear they offer Harnesses, Footpads, Bags and Apparel as well. North Kiteboarding develops the equipment together with their Team Riders and Designers which leads to an innovative and fashionable design. 

Austrian Rider Stefan Spiessberger is the European Vice-Champion in Freestyle 2012. Right now he enjoys the warm and windy conditions in Cape Town. Since a couple of weeks he trains for the upcoming season. 

KTE: What is your favourite place for Kitesurfing? 

Stefan: For kiting itself it's Brazil. There is no other place where you get such easy and perfect flatwater conditions! I think for training it's better to have challenging and hard conditions, as in a competitions it's most of the time not perfect at all. Thats why I prefer Cape Town over Brazil.

KTE: At the moment what kind of music would we find on you MP3- Player ?

Stefan: A bit of everything. Dubstep or HipHop before kiting, but also pretty chilled tunes.

KTE: What other sports do you do next to Kitesurfing?

Stefan: Wakeboarding, Skateboarding, Skiing, Climbing

KTE: Your plans for 2013?

Stefan: To get up the rankings even further I did in 2012!

KTE: Your plans for the future? Studying?

Stefan: I'd really like to study Sports. At the moment it's just not possible when I'm on the road the whole year.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe Crew!

We had norwegian KTE Rider Camilla Ringvold in a small interview about the winterseason and the possibilities of snowkiting in her homecountry Norway. This weekend she went snowkiting with her friends Ingrid Danielsson and Linn Jorstad at - 18 degrees. 

Camilla's friend Ingrid Danielsson

KTE: What is your favorite spot for snowkiting?

Camilla: Actually - I have two. Haugastøl and the Hardangervidda is more or less my home in the winter time and the possibilities are endless up there. And the Kaupang family always takes very good care of each and every one that steps into Haugastøl Turistsenter. But during my participation at Varanger Arctic Kite Enduro I experienced the utter most northern part of Norway - and kiting along mountain ridges and all the way down to the fjords opened my eyes for all the possibilities we have all around the country. 

Camilla's friend and Teammate Linn Jorstad

KTE: How do I start?

Camilla: If you haven´t skied or snowboarded before - I might recommend you to take a trip or two in the slopes first to get used to your gear. If you already know how to kite on water, ski or snowboard - the rest is easy. If not - look me up, and I´ll teach you! Martin Aune Østerdal and myself own one of the largest snowkiteschools in Norway - and we´ve been using the mountain plateau for almost a decade now. We´ll have you up and running safely over a weekend course. 

Nearing the end of the 2012 season, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe looks back on a momentous European Championship 2012.

The tour was a great occurrence to show the anticipation and competitive spirit of the euroepan kitesurf elite. 

Organisation :

In 8 month, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe organised 5 fabulous tour legs, in 5 countries with 600 registered riders and over 300.000 spectators. 576 hours of eventful action on the water and on the boardwalks. 480 hours to set-up the event sites and to break it down again. 5014km of car travelling to get all material to the event happenings.

Gastronomic :

The gourmet rider could find an incomparable offer of delicous sandwiches, companied by a fresh Red Bull or Alpro Soja Milk (nature, chocolat or vanilla) as well as a yummy dessert of strawberry and kiwi Chupa Cups. The consumation of drinks and sweets summarised to 7.500 cans of Red Bull, 5.000 packs of Alpro Soja milk and more than 8.200 Chupa Chups.

Climatology :

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 reached an average of 15 sunny days (out of 24 event days). Average temperatures : Podersdorf 18°, Sylt 17°, Brouwersdam 30°, France 20° and Barcelona 20°. Temperature of the water: minimum Sylt 14,8° and maximum Brouwersdam 19,2°. Average windspeed : minimum France 1 knot and maximum Sylt 25 knots.

Media Coverage :

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe covered the international media market. 178.000.000 European print media coverages and 185:08:00 minutes in international TV.

At the close of this European Championship 2012, one thing is certain – the Kitesurf Tour Europe has proven to be an excellent tour. For the next year, the KTE will grow with time. Many riders now look forward to returning with great anticipation for both their freestyle and racing adventures. Thanks to all riders, partners, helping hands and press people to create such an amazing tour 2012. 

Saturday evening in Dublin was an experience. Regarding the decision - so what. We started setting up such a wonderful sport in 2001 and it`s not a problem at all but a corner on our way. The Kitesurf Tour Europe is representing the most important continent in kitesurfing with the European Championship in Freestyle.

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012, the cream of kite boarding competing around Europe, finished once again. Five stops, five countries with 5 freestyle events, 5 racing events and 1 slalom event are done. Finally, 495 competitors participated on the European Championship Tour Event 2012. Thanks to all riders for that high attendance.

Four days of spectacular competitions, light and strong wind conditions at the beach of Castelldefels came to a fabulous end, when the European Championship in Kiteboarding Freestyle as well as the winners of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in Course Racing were crowned. 97 riders out of 19 nations participated in Spain.

The wind didn’t came up on the last day to run the double eliminations in Freestyle and to continue with Course Racings, but everyone enjoyed the friendly spanish atmosphere and the prize giving ceremony at the beach.

The first day of the event had amazing conditions for Freestyle, with perfectly sunny weather and winds up to twenty knots. This allowed the riders to show how far the riding has come over the last decade.  

In the single eliminations, Mario Rodwald (GER, North) and Stefan Spiessberger (AUT, North) made their way to the final. Rodwald travelled to Spain as the leader of the MINI KTE ranking and was unstoppable to get the title. In the final of the single eliminations, he won against Spiessberger. Local rider Patrick Blanc (ESP, Ozone) took third podium place against Johnno Scholte (NED, Future Kiting) in the looser final.

In the women division, dutch freestyler Annelous Lammerts (Slingshot) won the spanish stop against Therese Taabbel (DEN, Cabrinha) with powerful and clean moves. German rider Sabrina Lutz (North) gained third place on the podium after her heat against Kelly Schouten (NED, Liquid Force).

After five events all the results are in : Rodwald and Lammerts are the winners of the final stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in Castelldefels, Spain and were also crowned European Champions 2012. Stefan Spiessberger and Sabrina Lutz, obtained second places of the overall ranking 2012.

In Course Racings, italian rider Riccardo Leccese (Ozone) made his way to Spain with the clear mission to win the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe. Leccese won 3 out of 4 races and got first place on that last event. On second place, Adam Koch (USA, Ozone), who challenged his fellow racers and Maxime Nocher (FRA, North) crossed the finish line in third. Nevertheless, Leccese remains the leader in the overall tour ranking and celebrated his victory on the podium at the beach of Castelldefels. Second podium place in the tour overall ranking took Maxime Nocher, followed by german olympic hope Florian Gruber (North).

For professional Northkiteboarding team rider Steph Bridge (GBR), the 2012 season was successful again. In Brouwersdam, Netherlands, she became first overall and then dominated the KTE France. Here in Spain, she left no doubt again about who is one of the fastest European female racers by winning all races and clearly dominating the women fleet. On second place, Christine Bönniger (GER, Flysurfer) also show her qualities in Course Racings, followed by spanish racer Elena Anton Pascual (Ozone).

With regard to the overall ranking, Christine Bönniger is the well-deserved winner of the overall MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 in Course Racing, followed by Kathrin Borgwardt (GER, Cabrinha) and Steph Bridge in third. 

The MINI Kitesurf Tour 2012 promised an exciting kiteboarding season by visiting 5 countries with 5 freestyle events, 5 racing events and 1 slalom event.

This year’s season has led the MINI KTE as well as the sport of kiteboarding to new heights and it will mirror nothing less than success and triumph for the upcoming season 2013. After these five different stops that asked for a great variety of riding skills from waves to choppy water and light to strong wind conditions - the feedback of the riders has been very positive enjoying the atmosphere during the whole tour, the good organisations and the professional level during the events. Thilo Trefz (Tourmanager) honored all the riders for their good work and dedication to the sport. During the 2012 season, the top riders were really pushing the limits of kitesurfing in Freestyle and Course Racings. Every rider brings something to the sport, pushing each other through the season, traveling together and enjoyed the tour ambience. The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe, which is already in full preparation for the 2013 schedule, proved to be a perfect foretaste regarding to the Course Racing Olympics in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.

Stay update for all information and the upcoming season 2013 on our website, facebook or twitter!!

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe carried on today with no wind and a sense of brief relaxation matched with anticipation, as riders prepared for the last windy day of competition on sunday. According to the forecasts for tomorrow, good wind will be present for the last final day.

Considering this, today proved to be a day of mental and logistical preparation. 

Racing participants made sure that their gear was properly ready for some upcoming wind during the day, while freestyle riders could be seen scattered throughout the event site, catching up with friends and enjoying the cloudy and also sunny day. With a comfortable event area to spend their downtime, some riders even pulled out some SUP action, while others took advantage of the cool calm water – wakeboarding with a simple winch for a little entertainment and amusement. 

In anticipation of the BBQ tonight and the final day tomorrow, competitors commented that this event is a great time. Event sponsors MINI, Red Bull and Chupa Chups also represented themselves well on the beach, despite the unfavorable conditions, as they displayed flags, tents, and an encouraging presence at the event site. The popular Castelldefels has also shown itself to be a welcoming destination for kite competitors. Numerous spectators and riders took note of the friendly atmosphere, hospitable attitude, and overall pleasant ambience of this scenic place.

Tomorrow, riders will arrive to the beach at 9am for the last MINI KTE skipper’s meeting of the year. Wind is expected to range from 15-20 knots in the southwest direction. To stay update, have a look on SPOTFAV Livestram or on Facebook and Twitter.

Photos of Day 3 here

The second day in Castelldefels, Spain offered promise as a good racing day, with winds blowing from 8 -12 knots once the competitors arrived to the beach. Before the long anticipated skippers meeting with an announcement of the final 1^st day results, all riders took a delicious breakfast at the pool lounge. Especially Mario Rodwald (GER) and Annelous Lammerts (NED), the winners of the single eliminations enjoyed their hot coffee in the sun! What a perfect start into Day 2...

Starting at 10:00am, racers entered the water. Once the horn sounded, competitors were off, as Florian Gruber (GER) from the yellow fleet took an early lead in the second race (1st race of the day). Working their way around the course, Riccardo Leccese (COL) reached his lead again in race 3 and 4, with Florian Gruber (GER) holding strong in second, and Andrea Beverino (ITA) in third.  

In the red fleet, always an entertaining finisher, Adam Koch (USA) crossed the daily finish line after 3 races (4 in total) with a victory scream, very pleased with his performance. Even with lots of local riders, Koch keeps an upbeat attitude regarding the remainder of the event, hoping for continued top placement finishes against this fleet of talented racers. Maxime Nocher (FRA) took second place in his fleet, followed by Benni Bölli (GER). 

Along with a Mediterrean Sea current and variable winds, new challenges were brought to competitors, who faced wind “holes” and the need for new strategizing tactics. Steph Bridge (GBR) held strong in her consistently first place completions and crossed finish line at first with Christine Bönniger (GER) in second and Elena Anton Pascual in third (ESP).

By the way, spectactors on the beach standing in anticipation of what was going on on the water. Some kites moved in perfect synchronization alongside one another, while others moved back and ahead in search of the perfect lay line. 

All in all, the 2^nd competition day here in Spain was filled with incredible racing action. Freestyle riders were chilling on the beach and hoped for some more wind to hit the water, too. Unfortunalety, the wind didn't picked up to start with double eliminations.

The end of the day came to a nice sunset again. With regard to the forecast, Course Racings will likely continue tomorrow, with freestyle double eliminations on sunday. The wind conditions are looking suitable with 7-10 knots expected from west direction.

Stay tuned on facebook and twitter or watch us live at our SPOTFAV Livestream.

With an early start brought on by an 8:00am pool breakfast and a 9:00am rider’s meeting, competitors filtered onto the event site, ready to begin the first day with full motivation, high spirits and enthusiasm. As wind proved to be strong enough for freestyle action, all competitors prepared their material. At this first day, freestyle gained priority, with the possibility of racing later in the day

The wind blew in a range of 15 - 22 knots. At this point, spanish onlookers, tourists and local people from Castelldefels watched as the talented competitors performed at their highest abilities until late in the afternoon.

With good wind pretty, excitement high, and the riding at its peak, the MINI KTE was able to run full freestyle single eliminations and one race in the afternoon. 

Riders such as Johnno Scholte (NED) and Patrick Blanc (ESP) advanced early on into the double elimination. In particular, top favorite Mario Rodwald (GER) and Stefan Spiessberger (AUT) performed well as well ; speed and power in the majority of their maneuvers during the final heat. 

Meanwhile in the girls division, german rider Sabrina Lutz (GER) wasn’t on her A-game today, lost her heat #23 against Annelous Lammerts (NED) but won in the looser final against Kelly Schouten (NED).

The women’s final, Lammerts (NED) versus Therese Taabbel (DEN) was a an exciting heat, too. In the later afternoon, riders struggled with wavy and less wind conditions, making it even more challenging to gain big points.

After the men’s final, all racers were ready for their moment on the water. With wind measuring 15-18 knots, the stage was set for an exciting first day of Course Racing. Top competitors such as Riccardo Leccesse (COL) and Adam Koch (USA) as well as Flo Gruber (GER) and Olli Bridge (GBR) stood out as a few racing favorits, while Maxime Nocher (FRA) also looked to hold his own and make it to the front of the pack.

After the first race, the sunset began already to start up and the day finished under a dark-orange light. The final results of the single elimination finals and of the first race will be published tomorrow morning.

Stay tuned and looked forward to 9am skippers meeting to get know, who’ll be the winners of the single eliminations finals ?

For the second day, Course Racings are likely to run in the morning with freestyle in the afternoon, when wind conditions permit. Our livestream by SPOTFAV will be available online to fans and followers. 

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe arrived in Spain today along with around 56 racers and 38 freestyle competitors, ready to show off their very best on the waters of the Mediterrean Sea.

The MINI KItesurf Tour Europe is up to the 5^th tour stop in Spain. The finale annonces great challenges and high tension for riders, spectators and partners. Who will gain the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe Title 2012?

Less than 10 days to go and the much-anticipated 2012 tour in Freestyle and IKA Course Racings will come to an end. The mega event will start up onNovember 1^st through November 4^th with a freestyle qualifier, high jump as well as Course Racing action just close to the metropolitan town of Barcelona.

The spot of Castelldefels has become a popular short break destination thanks to its perfect conditions and it’s vibrant street life, mediterranean climate and cosmopolitan spirit. The last tour leg makes the finale a unique location. A perfect way to explore and to enjoy the magnificient surroundings of the Costa Brava - crystal clear seawater, perfect winds and a vibrating ambience. All in all, the perfect place to hold the prestigious finale of the European Championship Kiteboarding Tour 2012.

Up to date, the last tour stop recognized a particpation of more than 70 competitors from 15 nations. In preparation for the competition, riders are already preparing their stuff, are analyzing the current spanish conditions and even get in a training session before the event begins to gain new strength for the last seasonal kick-off.

Local riders from Cadiz, Tarifa and Barcelona as well as kitesurfer from USA, France, Germany, Colombia and Caribbean to name a few will make their way to the Costa Brava as well as local rider Alex Pastor (23, Airush). The Vice World Champion 2010 & 2011, sponsored by MINI, was born in Malaga and belongs to the beach and kitesurfing life of Castelldefels.

Top course racers like Riccardo Leccese (COL) and Adam Koch (USA), will be on it, too.

Freestyle rider and germans favorite Mario Rodwald (GER), who won the last few european kitesurfing events, will turn the spotlight on himself again. Is he ready and strong enough to crown the European title in Spain or do we get a big surprise of the 2^nd place in the current overall ranking Stefan Spiessberger ? But surely, Mario will remain motivated to defend his title at the top.

Another raving success can be get by dutch rider Annelous Lammerts. The 19 years young lady competes the first time on an European level and for the first time ever, she is in a position to gain a popluar title in her discipline Freestyle. But competitor Sabrina Lutz (GER) will kick off the 5^th leg event by defeating Annelous on its current first place.

So far, the MINI Kitesurf Tour 2012 promised an exciting kiteboarding season by visiting 5 countries with 5 freestyle events, 5 racing events and 1 slalom event. This year’s season has led the MINI KTE as well as the sport of kiteboarding to new heights and it will mirror nothing less than success and triumph for the upcoming season 2013. So keep up to date with all the latest event information for the finale in Spain as well as live competition results on the official MINI KTE website: www.kitesurftour.eu, on facebook or on twitter. 

The European Championship Tour promises a memorable finale of fantastic action and great challenges for best riders in the world to show the last time in 2012 their kitesurfing skills and to prove who will be the European champion of the MINI Kitesurf Tour 2012. 

Check out the entry list and be there 1st - 4th of November 2012/ Castelldefels/ Spain!

The ISAF World Sailing Ranking list has been released. For the first time ever including the discipline Kiteboarding. After the IKA World Champions in Italy and the European Championship in France, La Baule (3rd leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe) you can get an insight of the new World Ranking list.

After the Kiteboarding Course Racing European Championship in La Baule, France in preparation for the World Championship in Cagliari, Italy, Adam Koch has taken top place in the first ISAF rankings release. The american racer finished second in Cagliari. Riccardo Leccese follows Koch in second place having finished second in France to take the European title. 

Back-to-back third place finishes for Julien Kerneur (FRA) sees him third in the rankings.

In the women rankings, four time Kiteboarding World Champion Steph Bridge (GBR) has taken the inaugural top spot in the Women’s Kiteboarding rankings. The british kiteboarder won gold at the European Championship before a second place at the Kiteboarding worlds. Following Bridge is Caroline Adrien (FRA) who finished one place behind Bridge at both events. Katja Roose (NED) rounds off the top three in the rankings.

Are you kitesurfing? Do you stand out in a crowd? Are you more comfortable in the air than on the ground? As one of the fastest growing sports in the world we have a responsibility to influence more women to get involved in kitesurfing. Show the Europe and the World that you are working hard paving your way. Check in and get a ticket for Barcelona's highlight at the final of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012.

Help us to make history and to achieve for the first time ever the aim of a full Elimination Ladder for Freestyle Women with 32 registered girls. If you help us to reach that aim, we will spend some bottles of Champagne to all registered female Riders to celebrate this success. 

Well, it’s really simple… there are lots of amazing girls out there doing great things, and we want to shine the spot light on you.

We want to showcase talented and inspiring girls and motivate more girls to get involved in our great sport. 

So now it is your turn to motivate your girlfriend, best friends, sister and for sure the girls at your homespot to take part at the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe. Only one event to go for the 2012 season - the perfect opportunity to get the first experiences in an international competition. 

So get yourself and other girls ready and be a part of the challenge!

We count on you.

Barcelona/ Castelldefels 1st – 4th of November 2012

Check in, NOW!

After the 4th leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in France, almost all KTE racers went to Italy for the IKA World Champions 2012. The first day picked up with a light Scirocco breeze in the afternoon to get all european favorites right on top. 

Over in the womens fleet, it was an all-win day for Erika Heineken, chased by defending triple world champion Steph Bridge, who just crowned the European Champion title 2012 in France. Caroline Adrien scored constant top 5 places ranking her 3rd overall.

Keep it up!

Thanks to all riders and followers for another great time @MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe! The 4th tour stop proved to be a giant success, with major wins and amazing on- and off-water battles. After another event in an ideal location of France, and after crowning the winners at the village stage, one might be tempted to ask – who will win the overall MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 in Freestyle and Course Racing ?

Preparation for the last tour stop is running...See u in Barcelona!

Castedellfels : 1st - 4th of November

The 4th leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe was set up on the popular beach of La Baule, near Nantes, were 117 riders out of 20 nations were ready to show their best on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. With an ideal event site and the side-event of the famous french Derby Kite, the four days were an eventful and exciting tour stop, filled with the biggest names in kiteboarding. 

The conditions proved to be difficult during the four days of competition with highly varying and shifting winds that allowed races only to be held during the first days. During the competition days 12 races in total were run, four races for each of the three groups. Varied and light winds with around 7-12 knots provided the biggest challenge for competitors and the race committee, that had to adjust the course to the new wind directions.

After the two days course racing action on the water, Riccardo Leccese (ITA, Mikes Lab/Ozone) and Steph Bridge (GBR, North) are the 2012 Course Racing European Champions. Adam Koch (USA, Mikes Lab/Ozone) won the open Europeans, with Leccese in second and Julien Kerneur (FRA, RRD) in third. Bridge was on top of her game this week with Caroline Adrien (FRA, Aguera/Cabrinha) and Katja Roose (NED, Airush) close behind.

Unfortunately all freestyle riders didn’t get any chance to hit the water on that event. They were chilling on the beach or in the event village, where kite brand companies displayed their gear and stuff. Most of the freestyle riders tried their best skills on Golf Competition, E-Skating Challenging and SUP-Action.

On the final day, the awards ceremony took place on the stage at the event site, where fans, friends, and spectators gathered to see the final unveiling of the official winners. Proudly accepting their awards and accolades, each winner looked over the audience with big smiles and much appreciation.

The last but one event in France, was well received. Next up on tour, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will take part in Spain, Castelldefels. Featuring racing and freestyle performances as well as a great event village with a trainer kite area and MINI showroom. The last actionful tour stop will host all European rider from 1st to 4th of november 2012. 

Our partner MINI is involved in action sports around the world through cooperation and sponsoring activities. As a partner of trend-conscious sports, MINI supports young and creative sportspeople and, in so doing, promotes the development of their sport. MINI is the official title sponsor of the Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012. 

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in France carried on today with no wind and a sense of brief relaxation matched with anticipation and funny games on the beach. Racing participants prepared their gear for some promising action on the water, while freestyle riders could be seen scattered throughout the event site, catching up with friends and enjoying the sunny day. 

Tomorrow, riders will arrive to the beach at 10am for the first skipper’s meeting. Wind is expected to range from 5-9 knots. Racing may prove to be the focus for the day with the prize-giving ceremony at 3pm. The forecast for La Baule has made planning difficult in such light conditions.

For the last day tomorrow, join the MINI KTE 2012 on day four via Facebook for the latest updates, photos, and insights. 

Light wind characterized the second day of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in La Baule, France. The focus of the day was on course racing. The race set up was adapted due to these light winds. Race competitors gathered for the first possible signs of wind and suitable conditions. The breeze did begin to pick up slightly throughout the day to 7-10 knots, giving riders the time they needed to begin pumping up their kites and readying their gear. 

With 7-12 knots of wind, racers entered the water in the morning at 12:15 pm, hungry for a day full of racing action. At this point, Adam Koch (USA) and Steph Bridge (GBR) held first place positioning, and hoped to keep it that way. Mostly all competitors raced with kites up to 17 meters.

For rider Adam Koch (Ozone, USA) it was another great day on the water, finishing first in the fifth race. So, Koch is holding his first place in the current overall standing, followed by Riccardo Leccese (COL) on second and Julien Kerneur (FRA) on place three.

In the girls division, the first race of the day and the fifth in total, Steph Bridge (UK, North) got beaten by Caroline Adrien (FRA, Cabrinha) on first, Elena Kalinina (RUS) on second and Katja Roose (NED) on third. Taking a big risk, Steph Bridge continued to hold her placement in front. With Caroline Adrien close behind and Katja Roose on third.

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 descended on France along with 117 riders, 76 racers and 41 freestyle competitors, ready to show off their very best on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. With an ideal event site at La Baule, the week ahead looks to be an eventful and exciting one, filled with biggest names in kiteboarding and set at one of the most beautiful locations in the french region of Loire Atlantique. 

Racing kicked off the competition at 11am with three fleets split in 4 races. Competitors entered the water and battled it out for lead positioning. In each race, the top-ranked riders, including Adam Koch (USA), Julien Kerneur (FRA), Riccardo Leccese (COL), and Olivier Dansin (FRA) went head to head at the front of the pack. 

In the women fleet, it was almost an all around winning day for North rider Steph Bridge (North, GBR) who managed to race her way gracefully across the finish line first in three of four races today. French racer Caroline Adrien (Cabrinha, FRA), Michalina Laskowska (POL) and Katja Roose (Airush, NED) battled for place two, three and four. Roose managed to finish second of the day while Adrien took third place, followed by Laskowska. 

Around 2:30pm, wind picked up for a funny expression session just in front of the Island of La Baule. Almost all freestylers went out to train their kitesurfing skills in light and sunny conditions. After a funny and amazing day at 7pm the opening ceremony took place on the beach with some cocktails and hot sounds.

All in all, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe to guest at La Baule Derby Kite is on the way to be a giant success, filled with racing and outstanding freestyle action. Tomorrow, forecasts call for lighter winds. Check us out on: www.kitesurftour.eu and on facebook

We proudly announce, one week before the next MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe stop in La Baule/France,  the amazing number of 22 pre-registered girls for Freestyle and 21 pre-registered girls for Course Racing. 

Therese Taabbel is one of the girls who started competing at the KTE this year. She will do the next stop in La Baule/France next week as well. Here a small part of an interview we made with Therese for the Kitegirl Magazine. 

Why are you doing the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe? 

Before I went to my first European stop on Sylt, I've heard many good things about the European tour. All the good vibes and the well organized event are always in top.

I really wanted to do some international competitions, and something more challenging, and I thought, why not the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe? Here the level is really good, and all the girls really nice.

What do you like at the KTE?

Everybody here is so nice. The atmosphere is relaxed and chilled, but when the competition starts, we are all ready to do our best! The girls always stick together. We talk about new tricks, giving advice and trying to do new stuff. It’s so nice to ride with them, we are pushing each other, and when the event is over, you are always a bit better, than when you started. 

This is a reminder for all riders taking part at the upcoming European Championship at the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in La Baule/France (27. - 30. September).

The upcoming MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe Stop in La Baule/France (27. – 30. September)  will be the first Event which uses the new world ranking and Qualification System for Course Racing.

Apèro, Action and a record of Attendance are provided for the 4^th leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 in France

The Derby Kite and the bay of La Baule will welcome competitors from all over the world as the highly anticipated 4^th MINI Kitesurftour Europe stop will finally make its debut after months of preparation and organization. The Derby Kite is since 9 years the must-see kite event in France. Togehter with the European Championship they will represent the french leg of the MINI KTE 2012. 

This mega event will start up on September 27^th through September 30^th with an European freestyle qualifier, high jump as well as European Course Racing action.

The famous bay of La Baule experience is France at its best. With an explosion of kiteboarding action packed days and fun filled nights enjoyed by thousands of visitors, the french atlantic coast has something to offer everyone. With over 12 kilometres of sand, sun and surf, it’s clear to see why La Baule is one of the most popular holiday destination in France and the perfect place to hold the prestigious and professional European Kiteboarding Tour 2012.

Up to date, the upcoming tour stop recognized already a record of particpation with over 115 riders from 20 nations, who will compete on that event with a top female attendance of 20 girls in Course Racings and 18 in Freestyle. Riders from Australia, USA, France, Germany, Colombia and Caribbean to name a few will make their way to France. French course racers like Julien Kerneur, Maxime Nocher and of course Bruno Sroka will be in on it, too.

The kitesurfer Bruno Sroka (the most titled french kiter in his discipline) just broke the English channel record since the ISAF decided that kitesurfing would replace the windsurf in the Olympic Games. He did 100 nautical miles in 5 hours and beat the old record established in 2004 by Manu Bertin (FRA). Bruno isn’t just a competitor. He is a tremendous adventurer as well. Actually he is the first and the only man that kited for 9 hours around the Cape Horn by kitesurf in 2008. The Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro 2016 will be a new challenge for Bruno. He already proved to deserve the medal by winning three times the World Cup. The next medal that he wants to hang around his neck is of course the European Championship 2012 title as well as an Olympic medal in 2016.

Freestyle, the second discipline of the European Championship will offer a fantastic show to all visitors, press members and fans. Competitors like Michael Schitzhofer (AUT), Stefan Spiessberger (AUT) and Jerrie van de Kop (NED) will kick off the 4^th leg event by defeating Mario Rodwald (GER) on its current first place. But surely, Mario will remain motivated to defend his title at the top.

Another eye-catcher will be the 38 women, who will attract a great deal of attention. For the first time ever, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will host such an awesome female particpation on a tour stop. More than 20 girls will compete in Course Racings including professionals like Stephanie Bridge (UK), Christne Bönniger (GER), Katja Roose (NED) and local rider Caroline Adrien (FRA) in addition to 18 women in Freestyle. Sylt champion Annelouse Lammerts (NED) will hit the water against the twice vice European Junior Champion Marie Switala from France and Austrian title winner Chiara Esposito (ITA) as well as german star Sabrina Lutz. Full women power and concentrated passion will create a gorgeous and sparkling event on the water and behind the scene – apéro, action and a great attendance!

Another unforgettable freestyle and race competition event is to expect! So keep up to date with all the latest event information as well as live competition results on the official MINI KTE website or on facebook

Our partner MINI is involved in action sports around the world through cooperation and sponsoring activities. As a partner of trend-conscious sports, MINI supports young and creative sportspeople and, in so doing, promotes the development of their sport. MINI is the official title sponsor of the Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012. 

Pre-Registration is still full running and we are happy to announce that we have noted a record in terms of registered KTE-riders. Sensational 115 riders from 20 nations are preregistered; 18 female riders are registered for Freestyle and 20 for Racings.

Check out the riders list...which is still not completed !

Curly hairs, good shape bodies, hot pants and bikinis...the upcoming tour stop in La Baule / France will be captured by female charme. Today we registerd more than 101 riders from 20 nations, with a brilliant number of participants of 34 female riders (18 in Course Racing and 18 in Freestyle). The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe finds general approval of the girls kitesurfing world and is proud to announce a record attendance. 

Register now for the 4th leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe in France / La Baule from 27th - 30th of september 2012. The Derby Kite, for 9 years the must-see kite event, forms an alliance this year with the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe and represents the French leg.

Get special offers for accomondation and enjoy a big party on the water and on the beach.

Do you need a transfer from the airport to La Baule ? Here you'll get all information. 

Sign it and show us your kitesurfing skills!

Registration here or at the IKA website

See u on the water!

Another tour stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe is coming soon. Only 4 weeks to go and we'll be guest at Derby Kites La Baule, Nantes (France). Today 65 pregistered rider from 17 nations showed great response on the 4th leg of the European Championship.  

Riccardo Leccese (COL) and Stephanie Bridge (UK) obtained the dutch event titles in Course Racings

 Arriving for the first time in Holland, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe and its competitors passed by the dune landscape of Brouwersdam for a four days actionful event happening - the Kitegatta 2012. An amazing count of 101 total competitors in Freestyle and Race represented 15 countries. The best riders in Europe planed to create another great show on the water to showcase fastest speeds and tricky maneuvers, providing onlookers and participants with ultimate performances.

According to the wind forecast, light wind was announced for the majority event. Racing participants made sure that their gear was properly registered, while freestyle riders could be seen broadcasted throughout the event site, catching up with friends and enjoying the warm and sunny days. Riders and fans, discussed the new movie « Hidden Lines » by Kevin Langeree and Youri Zoon. During the whole event, wind conditions were too light for any freestyle action, but still good enough for racings.

With positive energy, just close after the Olympic Summer Games in London, all racers were motivated and full of power to show perfect kitesurfing skills and fastest speeds on the water. After fourteen completed races throughout the event days with different conditions, Ricccardo Leccese (Columbia) and Stephanie Bridge (UK) rode very consistently throughout the whole dutch event, with strong and powered approach and a final success with first podium positions. Maxime Nocher (FRA) and Christine Bönniger (GER) achieving second, Florian Gruber (GER) and Katja Roose (NED) coming in third. 

On day fourth, the awards ceremony took place on the beach at the event site, where many spectators, friends, and fans gathered to see the final exposure of the official winners for racing. Proudly accepting their awards and the price money, each winner looked over the audience with big smiles and much appreciation. Unfortunately all 60 freestyle riders didn’t get any chance to hit the water. They were chilling on the beach or in the event village, where kite brand companies displayed their 2013 gear and play host to lounging and relaxation. DJ booths and animation made up a large portion of the area as well.

In all, the event in Holland was well received. Next up on tour, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will take part in the Derby Kites of La Baule, France. Featuring racing and freestyle performances as well as a great event village with a trainer kite area, MINI showroom and MINI test rides. The french tour stop will host all European rider from 27th to 30th of september 2012. 

The scene was set on day three in Brouwersdam, Holland, as visitors and racers arrived around 10am to find out what was in store for the day. With light side-shore winds, race competitors pumped their kites for the first race of the of the day. At this time, winds measured around 12 knots on the water. 

The horn sounded under a sunny sky with tropical temperatures and light wind conditions. Front-runners Riccardo Leccese (Columbia), Florian Gruber (GER) and Maxime Nocher (FRA) fought hard to gain a lead again. With most racers on their biggest kites, it was clear that every rider needed to take advantage of the best of their abilities in order to achieve top placement. 

Moving onto the fifth race of the day and the 14 official race of Kitegatta 2012, Leccese finished clearly on first place. Nocher battled with Gruber and Kerneur for the following positions. As in all races, the angle of attack proved to be everything, allowing racers to edge up in placement and get ahead.

The first racer that crossed the daily finish line in all, after the wind dropped down and strong drift hedged about another sixth race, Riccardo Leccese came off the water with a big smile. Maxime Nocher proceeded to complete the current overall course ranking second, followed by Florian Gruber and Julien Kerneur (FRA). 

For the women, Stephanie Bridge (UK) proudly finished first again, achieving a perfect placement for her first tour stop at the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012. Christine Bönniger (GER) earned second place shortly thereafter, followed by Katja Roose (NED) in third.

Despite the light wind conditions for freestyle, all riders took the opportunity to share in dutch holiday spirit by sharing a few laughs over a refreshing ice cream or some delicious cold drinks while conversing with friends and family about the new kiteboarding tricks and the new movie « Hidden Lines » by Kevin Langeree, Youri Zoon and Nick Jacobsen. A few multi-colored 2013 kites of many different shapes and sizes were able to lift off up into the warm air. As the day progressed around 4pm, the wind died completely. All riders were released for that third day. Thousands of visitors and all riders were finally chilling on the beach or refreshing in the water.

Tomorrow, join the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe at Kitegatta 2012 on day four via Facebook for the latest information throughout the day and information about the prize giving ceremony. To view pictures of the day, check out the link below.

Day two in Holland provided a little bit more wind than the day prior. With acceptable wind conditions and the race competitors ready, it was time to head into another day of racings battles on the water. Measuring 7-14 knots throughout the morning and afternoon, competitors entered the water around 10:30, more determined than ever to improve their placements and claim greater leads.

After 6 amazing races during the competition day, columbian course racer Riccardo Leccese dominated the men fleet and earned the current first place of this event. Florian Gruber (GER) and Maxime Nocher (FRA) were riding very constantly by changing placements during the races. Finally, Florian remembered pushing on the board to gain some more speed against Maxime and managed to gain second place.

In the girls division, Steph Bridge (UK) was happy to finish first again. The british power woman rode very consistently throughout the day, with a strong and powered approach .

Others such as Christine Bönniger (GER) and Katja Roose (NED) put forth their strongest efforts, holding their ground for the duration of the races and finishing second and third.

In the afternoon, the wind noticeably were not picking up for some freestyle action. Disappointed by the wind, freestyle competitors relaxed on the beach and in the meeting area to wait once more, enjoying lunch and the dutch atmosphere until official releasement at 6pm. As the day continued on, there were brief moments where it looked as if the wind might pick up – only to die back down again, clouds and sun moving in with tropical temperatures.. 

In total, all 6 races were completed and no freestyle heats were run, as the wind proved to be too light for such competition. Freestyle riders like Mario Rodwald, Christopher Tack, Stefan Spiessberger, Sabrina Lutz, Annelouse Lammerts and Chiara Esposito sat patiently around the rider’s area waiting for wind and talking about the new material 2013.

Tomorrow, a light breeze is expected again of up to 13 knots, so competitors will arrive to the meeting place at 10am for the day’s first meeting. Hopefully, wind will compare, too. Stay tuned via social media for all the latest updates.

Light wind characterised the first day of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe and Kitegatta 2012 in Netherlands. In preparation for the competition, competitors arrived to the event site yesterday evening for the registration and to analyse the dutch conditions before the event begins. 

For the racing and freestyle discipline, 101 riders will make up the event by representing 15 nationalities, At this event, 42 male and a great participation of 18 female riders will compete in Freestyle action and 41 riders in Course Racings. With the best kiteboarding talents here in Netherlands, the 3^rd leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will certainly provide a full range of high action, amazing tricks and nippy speeds in one of the most fantastic kiting location in Holland – Brouwersdam.

Beginning today at 10am with the first skippers meeting, competitors gathered for the first possible signs of wind and suitable conditions. The breeze seemed to hold on, giving riders the possibility pumping up their kites and readying their gear for the first Course Racings. After the sound of the horn, racers battled for perfect positioning and lead spots. 

After 3 full races, Florian Gruber (GER) took first leading position with Riccardo Leccese (Columbia) not far behind on second place and others such as Maxime Nocher (FRA) and local rider Rolf van der Vlugt (NED) finishing on place third and fourth.

In the women fleet, Stephanie Bridge (UK) happily earned first for the women with Christine Bönniger (GER) on second and local rider Katja Roose (NED) on third.

As racing has just recently been announced as an Olympic sport for the 2016 games in Rio de Jeneiro, all riders report an increased interest in the sport of kiteboarding, and more specifically kite racing. 

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe and Kitegatta 2012 proudly present the new movie "Hidden Lines" by Kevin Langeree. Don't miss it!

Where : Beach pavilion.
When : Friday August 17th @ 8:30pm
Cost : Absolutly free and avisable!

Check out the trailer

The MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe prepares for its halftime in Netherlands/ Brouwersdam. Who will gain the dutch medals and can we reach the first full ladder in women Freestyle?

The third tour location, which is becoming one of the most anticipated kitesurfing spots, will take competitors to the North Sea at Beware Beach/ Brouwersdam, Netherlands. Featuring a Freestyle and Course Racings exhibition with the best kitemasters, the 3^rd tour stop promises to dish out the european’s best in racing and freestyle action. 

At this event, 20 women and 55 men will make up the 75 total competitors, representing 15 nationalities. For the first time ever, we have the possibility to create a first full 32 ladder in women Freestyle on this planet. Maybe, the performance of Annelouse Lammerts during the Sylt Freestyle event is the background for meanwhile 20 female riders registered at the third leg of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe. The best kiteboarding talents will certainly provide a full range of best tricks, fastest speeds and one of the most amazing kiting locations in Holland. Just close after the Olympic Games in London, all racers have already to proof their kitesurfing speeds regarding to the next Olympic Games in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.

The third tour stop at Brouwersdam will take place from August 16^th to August 19^th. Defending currently championship leader Mario Rodwald (GER) will surely stay motivated to win for the third time in a row, while local top riders Jerrie van de Kop (NED) and Johnno Schulte (NED) as well as female rider Annelouse Lammerts (NED) and Jalou Langeree (NED) look to break the leaders streaks, hopefully claiming the home title and gain dutch medals.

With regards to the Course Racing discipline, the best riders will come to showcase their skills for top placements. For the first time course racing’s acceptance as an Olympic sport, the MINI KTE competitor’s fleet will battle on the North Sea, to raise up the level of this ever-growing sport. Surely, the top-ranked, including Rolf van der Vlugt (NED), Julien Kerneur (FRA) and Bruno Sroka (FRA) as well as leading racers, Florian Gruber (GER), will offer up some of the most incredible racing action. Furthermore, female frontrunners Katja Roose (NED), Christine Bönniger (GER) and Stephanie Bridge (UK) are also in attendance, and plan to make their strongest showing yet, while others will fight to rise through the ranks and claim top titles. After the Olympic Games in London, kitesurfing will awake concentrated attention regarding to the next Olympics in 2016. 

Overall, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe, will be hosted at Brouwersdam for the Kitegatta 2012. Looking to compare local talents with the best european kitesurfers, who will show their impressive skills at an extraordinary 3^rd tour stop in front of hundreds of specators, kiting enthusiasts, media and press members.It will be an amazing event with all the excitement of big freestyle action coupled with amazing racing performance.

Our partner MINI is involved in action sports around the world through cooperation and sponsoring activities. As a partner of trend-conscious sports, MINI supports young and creative sportspeople and, in so doing, promotes the development of their sport. MINI is the official title sponsor of the Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012. 

Pre-Registration is out now. Sensational 22 female riders are registered for Freestyle!

Registration for Brouwersdam are full running

Only 2 weeks to go and we already noticed 75 preregistered riders from 15 nations. From the 16th of August through the 19th, 34 freestyle competitors and 20 female riders will battle it out in course racings and freestyle comptetion at Brouwersdam/ Netherland. 

Just three weeks away from one of the most exciting tour stops yet for 2012, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe at Brouwersdam/ Netherlands looks like to be exciting as Beware Beach hosts the European Kitesurf Tour for the first time ever. In what is sure to be one of the most gripping and intense events this year, competitors like Jalou Langeree, Bram Bast, Johnno Scholte, Tijn van Esch as well as racer Rolf van der Vlugt and Katja Roose will experience the dynamic conditions of wind at Brouwersdam! 

The future kitesurfing ray of hopes, their family life and their opinion for Olympia 2016

« Kiteboarding set for lift-off » says British world champion 2011, Stephanie Bridge (39 years).

The Bridge family team are the guys that take care of the day to day running of things. The Bridge youth team are the boys for the future – our ray of hopes ! 

Stephanie Bridge (crownded 2011 Kite Racing World Champion) and husband Eric Bridge have three boys: Ollie, Tommy, and Guy. All three of them are passionate kitesurfers. 

Ollie is the oldest of the bridge boys, has been perfecting his kitesurfing skills and will compete with his 14 years on course racings and freestyle disciplines at the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe at Brouwersdam (Netherlands). He started flying a kite at the age of five and last year he came third in the youth world championships for under 19s.

The « kamikaze kid », Tommy (11 years) polished his powerkite skills to hit the water for the upcoming freestyle competition in Netherlands. With his young age, he will be one of the youngest competitor at the tour. Tommy loves to learn from the best and he also has the opportunity to be one of the best. Tommy said one time, that he wants to be World Champion by the time he’s 12 years old. Let’s wait and see and maybe there will be a chance to crown the european title at first. 

Stephanie Bridge, ideal, mom and correspondent of BBC, will also particpate on course racings. She is fully intends to go for Rio de Janeiro despite the fact she will be 43 years. Concerning Olympia 2016, Steph said ; "I keep waking up thinking what a great thing this is, what an opportunity for the young and everyone involved all over the world. Suddenly there's a clear pathway." The 39-year-old Bridge, who will defend her world title in Sardinia in October, was part of the group from the International Kiteboarding Association who lobbied ISAF and the International Olympic Committee to consider the sport and took part in the final evaluation trials in March 2012. Britain's four-time kiteboarding world champion Steph says the Olympics should find space for both kiting and windsurfing.

« But as one door closes, another one opens ».

The Bridge family will hit the water again from August 16th until August 19th at Brouwersdam/ Netherlands – the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe goes on !

Less then 5 weeks to go, MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe competitors will converge on the beach of Brouwersdam, Netherlands.

Coming soon and beginning on August 15th, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will provide both freestyle riders and racers the opportunity to showcase their best skills at one of the famous kitesurfing beaches in Netherlands. Dutch riders shown theirs kitesurfing skills already in Sylt, but now they have to attack on their own home spot.

On the 2^nd tour stop in Sylt, dutch rider Rolf van der Vlugt (NED, Airush) ranked third place in the world champion slalom fleet beyond Julien Kerneur (France, RRD), current number three of the world and Maxime Nocher (France, North).

In the upcoming olympia discipline « Course Racing » he conquered first place. His spouse Katja Roose (Airush), dominated the womens slalom final and got 2^nd place in course racing. In Brouwersdam, they have to demonstrate their’s abilities again. 

Also the dutch Freestyle riders are promising a lot to the dutch spectators.

Dutch freestyle starlet Annelous Lammerts (NED, Slingshot) earned first place beating german rider Sabrina Lutz (GER, North) and Kelly Schouten (NED, Ozone). In Netherlands, she will probably compete against the sister of dutch Freestyle legend Kevin Langeree – Jalou Langeree.

Also the men`s fleet with Jerrie van de Kop (place 4) and Johnno Scholte (place 5) offers promising riders knowing very well the challenging conditions of the Northern Sea. Mario Rodwald (GER, North), the current first place freestyle competitor will surely remain motivated to defend his title at the top. After being 3^rd place in the overall ranking 2011, Tijn van Esch was disappointed with his 17^th rank. Can he strike back? It stays exciting.

Finally, Netherlands is ready and waiting to host the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012. 

With perfect condtions and the best riders in the world battling it out, the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe will surely provide the ultimate competitive spectacle, with non-stop action that is guaranteed to attract specators.

The 3^rd tour stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 will take place from August 16th to August 19th. Fans and friends will be able to follow the MINI KTE online via a live stream or through the official Facebook page.

Stay tuned....

Annelous Lammerts (18 years) from Netherlands presents herself in a video.

She is one of the secret starlet in the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 and the winner of the freestyle discipline in Hamburg/ Sylt. Already one title under her's belt, she is already preparing for the next tour stop at her homespot - Netherlands/ Brouwserdam from 16th to 19th of august. 

This year is her first season competing. The first time in the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe and in the Dutch Championship. Have a look in her video and be impressed by a young newcomer from Netherlands. 

Slalom World Champions 2012 are crowned and dutch and german riders earned important points for the European Championship in Course Racing and Freestyle

Hamburg/ Sylt, July 1^st – the MINI Kitesurf Worldcup Sylt event came to an official close today, as top competitors were celebrated at the awards ceremony in front of hundreds of in-person fans. Over 98.000 spectators were visiting the event during the week, while 85 riders out of 15 nations participated in three different disciplines in slalom, course racing and freestyle. 

In the world champion slalom fleet, french riders are clearly lead the pack. Julien Kerneur (France, RRD), current number three of the world, battled it out and won the world champion title in slalom 2012, followed by Maxime Nocher (France, North) on second and Rolf van der Vlugt (NED, Airush), on third place.

The womens final in slalom was dominated by dutch girl Katja Roose (Airush), 1st place in the IKA world ranking, who took victory in close racing over Caroline Adrien (France, Cabrinha) in second and Kristin Boese (GER, Best) in third.

With regard to the future olympic discipline « Course Racings » and in preparation for Rio de Janeiro 2016, the fight for the first places was incredibly close. Dutch rider Rolf van der Vlugt (Airush), and current 7th in the world ranking, won the tour stop in his neighbouring country in the challenging conditions of the Northern Sea, leaving competitor Florian Gruber (North) from Germany in 2^nd place and Blazej Ozog (POL, North) on podium step three.

For french rider, Caroline Adrien, the competition in Sylt was very successful. She conquered the world vize champion title 2012 in slalom as well as the 1st overall in course racings. Here in Sylt, she left no doubt who is one of the fastest European female racer. In second place overall finished Katja Roose (NED, Airush) and Christine Bönniger (GER, Flysurfer) on third place. 

With freestyle best kiteboarding talents in the world, the Brandenburger Strand in Sylt, attracted onlookers with major maneuvers and complicated tricks showcased throughout the event. Anticipation in the final day reached a spectacular highlight with the men’s super final heat. Stefan Spiessberger from Austria and German Champion Mario Rodwald engaged in a battle to the end, displaying their most spectacular of moves, competing against each other. Mario Rodwald came out victorious.

At the end of the final eliminations of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe Sylt, Mario Rodwald (GER, North) and Annelous Lammerts (NED, Slingshot) earned first place, with Stefan Spiessberger (AUT, North) and german rider Sabrina Lutz (North) achieving second, Luke Whiteside (UK, North) and Kelly Schouten (NED, Ozone) coming in third.

This was the MINI Kitesurf Worldcup Sylt 2012 with three different disciplines that asked for a great variety of riding skills from large waves to choppy water and light to strong wind conditions. The feedback of the riders has been very positive enjoying the northern atmosphere in Sylt and the high quality on the water. 20.000€ in prize money was divided between the riders. The event in Germany was incredibly well received, and plans for next year’s event is already in the works.

The third tour stop of the MINI Kitesurf Tour Europe 2012 will be in Netherlands/ Brouwserdam from 16th – 19th of august. This competition promises to deliver the ultimate in racing action, with a special freestyle exhibition put on by top riders. Spectators and fans can look forward to more live streaming, and, as usual, the best freestyle performances by the best riders in the world. 

The 5th day at the Brandenburger Strand in Sylt, Germany, seemed to offer a quite nice day with some more winds and sunny moments. Keeping confident with an optimistic mindset and the good chance of wind, competitors arrived at 10am to be briefed on the plan for the day. This plan turned out to be quite similar to day 4 – slalom and course racings were announced. 

The wind held on to provide slalom racers the perfect opportunity for next competiton. The 4th race of the Worldchampionship in Slalom commenced in 12-15 knots. All slalom races were defined by close finishes and constantly changing placements, with the current stand-out leader – Julien Kerneur on first and Maxime Nocher, on second. The french riders dominate the slalom field followed by Rolf van der Vlugt (NED). 

In the women slalom races, Katja Roose from Netherlands, rode very consistently throughout the day with a powered approach. French girl, Caroline Adrien, in the overall ranking on place two, followed by Kristin Boese, Germany, on third.

The course racer started with 4 races into the day. In the provisional overall rankings of the day (7th in total), Florian Gruber (GER) took the win followed by Rolf van der Vlugt (NED) and Maxime Nocher (FRA).

In the women division, there were a few close finishes with Caroline Adrien (FRA), who is leading the provisional first place, while Katja Roose (NED) took second place and Christine Bönniger (GER) took the lead over Ariane Imbert (FRA), who finished 4th overall.

Overall the 5th day of the MINI Kitesurf Worldcup Sylt proved to be an amazing day. With all the excitement of big racings action coupled with amazing course slalom performances.

For tomorrow, we hope for sufficient wind to finish the double elimination in freestyle and to crown the Worldchampion in Slalom as the highlight of the day. Skippers meeting is set up at 10am with freestyle or racings until 2:00pm. At 3:00pm the top competitors will accept their awards for the European Championship and also for the Worldchampion title in Slalom !

The scene was set on day four in Germany, Sylt, as spectators and riders of the MINI Kitesurf Worldcup Sylt arrived at 10:00am to find out what’ll happen on that day. With wind measuring around 16 – 20 knots throughout the morning, slalom competitors entered the water around 11:00am. 

After two slalom races, Florian Gruber (GER) and Katja Roose (NED) snatched the current leading position with high motivation to catch the Worldchampion title in slalom in the following two days.

After lunch time, the wind dropped down smoothly and freestyler and slalom riders were released for that day. Course racers entered the 15° cold Northern Sea at 3:00pm. The racers took off at the sound of the horn, fighting for the best placement and always with regard to the upcoming Olympic Games 2016 in Rio de Janeiro. They battled for perfect positioning and lead spots.

Unfortunately, while race 4th began, the winds died – forcing the race director to cancel its start. After the 1st course racing day, dutch rider Rolf van der Vlugt catched leading position, followed by Tomek Janiak (POL) on second and Blazej Ozog (POL) on third. For the women, the french girl Caroline Adrien crossed the finish line at first. On place second, Katja Roose (NED) and on third Christine Bönniger (GER). Even though winds did not provide conditions suitable for racing or freestyle on this day, competitors and beachgoers still enjoyed the day.

Final race results, we’ll get tomorrow morning. 

The action on water was accompanied by action on the boardwalk. Spectators got the opportunity to try longboards on the pedestrian area and to show sporty skills by flying a trainer kite in the MINI Kitearea.

All disciplines – Freestyle, Course Race and Slalom will continue on following two days.

Overall, the fourth day here at the MINI Kitesurf Worldcup Sylt proved to be ecxiting and full affair. The well-designed course allowed a richness of movement throughout the competition area. A racy and actionful competition day is over.

Day five looks to promise stronger wind. Skippers meeting is set up at 10:00am with a first possible start at 10:30am. In addition, the livestream on www.kitesurf-worldcup.com will also continue broadcast the action on water.

Today marks the third day of competition here on Sylt, Germany. Unfortunately there was no wind, therefore the day started with a big breakfast and lots of coffee in the riders lounge directly on the « Brandenburger Strand ». After the official riders party yesterday night in « american bistro » competitors and spectators were still tired and needed some encourages for passing the day... 

But even though clouds covered sky over the event site throughout the day, the beach was crowed with spectators anticipating the wind pick up in strength for some kiteboarding action.

At 11:00am race director Markus Schwendtner announced that all freestyle riders were released for the day as well as the slalom competitors. Course racers passed the day by waiting for the wind and the next announcement.

Shortly after 3:00pm the wind picked up and conditions were more favorable. All course racers prepared their big kites of 17m² until the wind dropped down again. The decision at 4:00pm was clear with no following races on that day anymore. It was a day of waiting for the wind, something that is extremely familiar to every kitesurfer.

But it was perfect weather to run SUP races, supported by the longboard magazine "40inch" and to handle paper airplane contest during the day organised by North Kiteboarding and sponsored by MyVale (summer sandals, that are handmade from the imprint of the foot). At lunch time, the opening ceremony with all 85 riders out of 17 nations was catch up. Hundred of people were out and took the opportunity to have autograph signed and to take some photos.

The vespertine preparation for the upcoming « Kitesurf Worldcup Poker Night » and the football semi final is in full progress.

Skippers meeting is shedulded for 10:00am with a first possible start at 10:30am. Tomorrow’s wind forecast looks very promising with wind around 18-24 knots from south west. The course race, slalom and freestyle double eliminations will resume as early as possible.