Competition is back on the international kitefoil scene, with the European Championship to be held from March 19 to 24, 2024 in the heart of the Mar Menor lagoon on Spain's Mediterranean coast. The event marks the opening of the kitefoil season and promises exciting clashes between the world's best athletes.
The French are expected
Among them, the French team, buoyed by its recent success, is particularly eagerly awaited.
Under the spotlight, Lauriane Nolot, reigning world champion, and Axel Mazella, world bronze medallist, carry the French hopes. With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games only four months away, this European championship is seen as a crucial stage in the athletes' preparation and Olympic selection.
The next generation is here
In addition, their team-mates, including Théo de Ramecourt, 2021 World Champion, Maxime Nocher, European runner-up, bronze medallist Poema Newland, Jessie Kampman and Benoit Gomez, are also serious contenders for the title. These athletes are determined to make the most of their talent and intense preparation to claim victory.
"Keeping a cool head
Lauriane Nolot shares her thoughts prior to the competition, highlighting the unique challenges posed by Mar Menor's wind conditions. Aware that she had to adapt her technique to succeed, she highlights the teamwork and specific training carried out beforehand. " The road to the Games is still long, and we are fully committed to the selection process "she confides, expressing both her excitement and her desire to keep a cool head.
As for Axel Mazella, he talks about the intensity of the upcoming competition and the weather hazards that could influence performance. " The Mar Menor offers a unique stretch of water, far from the usual Mediterranean conditions, which promises to be both spectacular and challenging "He explains, while acknowledging the stress inherent in such a competition, especially during the Olympic selection period.
A show to follow at the end of March
The championship kicks off with qualifying races from March 19 to 23, before culminating in the medal race and awards ceremony on March 24.
