Day 2- Lay Day in Hainan
No competition took place on day two of the 2014 Hainan International Kitesurf Festival. The wind that was forecasted never materialized. With slight increases throughout the day, the wind seemingly toyed with the eager competitors and kept riders on hold throughout the afternoon. Waiting until the all were certain that the wind wasn’t going to show, the competitors were finally released at 4 pm.
With the warm tropical climate and the skyline of the city of Haikou as the backdrop, the event site provided plenty of diversions for the competitors. Many relaxed in the riders lounge and passed the day amongst the lush palms trees chatting and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. Dancers were on hand as well and kept riders and spectators entertained with performances throughout the day, engaging the receptive crowd.
Aside from the weekend hordes and the sun umbrellas lining the shore, only the kites of Gisela Pulido and Karolina Winkowska accented the beach, a constant reminder of what is on everyone’s minds. Both riders arrived early and were ready with kites pumped, clearly focused, and ready for the rematch when conditions would allow.
The forecast for tomorrow is expecting the wind to be strongest in the morning 14-18 knots. The re-run of the super final from the last event in Pingtan between Pulido and Winkowska will take priority over the start of the single elimination. Rider’s meeting will be at 8 am with an 8:30 am first possible start.
