https://arab.news/6emb9
- Inaugurated by Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al-Nahyan, the event marks the first time all five watersports competitions will be held in one location, from Oct. 25-Nov. 2
ABU DHABI: For the first time in Abu Dhabi, more than 150 kitesurfing athletes will descend on the UAE capital for the Kite World Cup at the Fahid Island Watersports Festival, taking place Oct. 25-Nov. 2.
The event was officially inaugurated Thursday by Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al-Nahyan, president of the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation, at a launch event hosted at Fahid Island, in the presence of athletes, partners and guests.
In partnership with Aldar, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, AD Ports Group, and set against the turquoise waters and pristine coastline of Fahid Island, the first-of-its-kind festival will feature a world-class sporting program of kitesurfing, wing foiling, e-foiling, wake foiling, hydrofoiling and freestyling, together with interactive community events.
Some of the world’s best watersports athletes will set the stage with high-flying action and freestyle tricks, including jumps, rotations, and board-offs. The event will welcome French star Kylie Belloeuvre, Spain’s Borja Vellon and one of the US’s leading foiling figures, Justin Chait, who will eye podium finishes in their respective categories.
Emirati kitesurfer Mohammed Al-Mansoori and Abu Dhabi-born Polish national Fryderyk Szcesny will also take to the water in pursuit of season-best performances.
Free entry to the Fahid Island Watersports Festival will also allow the public to experience the Athletes’ Village, which provides food trucks and live entertainment.
Watersports fans can try heir hand at several activities, including kitesurfing, wing foiling, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and jet surfing under expert guidance. A dedicated retail boardwalk will offer shopping and lifestyle experiences.
Competition Schedule:
GKA Kite World Tour will showcase the Hydrofoil Big Air World Cup from Oct. 25-30
GKA Freestyle World Cup Abu Dhabi season opener takes place from Oct. 25-Nov. 2
GWA Wingfoil World Tour takes center stage for six days from Oct. 28-Nov. 2
SFT Surf Foil World Tour will crown its champions during the SFT E-Foil competition from Oct. 25-26
SFT Wake Foil will take place from Nov. 1-2