Summary
- First competition of the kayak season after a six-month winter break.
- Event held in torrevieja with 405 participants, including 283 men and 121 women.
- Strong winds initially canceled the first day of races.
- Favila Velasco and Mateo Alonso won gold in the SS2 category.
- The Club Piragüismo El Sella was the best-performing club with seven golds.
Kayak Season kicks off in Torrevieja with Thrilling Competitions
The vibrant world of sea kayaking resumed its competitive spirit in Spain as the first event of the season,the inaugural Copa de España,took place in Torrevieja,Alicante. Organized by the Real club Náutico de Torrevieja, the competition marked a meaningful comeback after a six-month winter hiatus for many athletes.
Event Overview
The excitement of the Copa de España was palpable as registration surged to an impressive 405 participants. The competitor pool consisted of:
- 283 Men
- 121 Women
Participants were categorized across various age groups, including:
- Infantil A and B
- Cadete A and B
- Juvenil
- Sub 23
- Senior
Weather Challenges Affecting the Competition
The competition faced a rocky start when strong winds forced the cancellation of races on the first day. However, on Sunday, conditions improved enough to allow all events to take place under the protection of the waves. Despite the persistent rain and formidable two-meter waves throughout the weekend,athletes showcased their skills,preparing for this significant event.
Highlighted Performances
One of the standout achievements came from the Cadete category, were the dynamic duo of Favila Velasco from Nava and Mateo Alonso from Villaviciosa captured gold in the SS2 event. Their performance was not just a personal victory but also part of a larger triumph for their club.The Club Piragüismo El Sella emerged as the top-performing club of the event, bringing home seven gold medals amidst tough competition and challenging weather conditions. The team, consisting of 11 athletes, demonstrated resilience and skill, adding several medals to their tally and putting a positive spin on a challenging weekend.
Conclusion
The Copa de España in Torrevieja was not just a return to competition for kayakers; it was a display of determination and teamwork despite environmental challenges. As the season unfolds, the athletes are expected to continue pushing boundaries and setting new records in the world of kayaking.
For more details, visit the official report here.