Day 3 of the Solaire Blue Open 2017 was greeted with textbook conditions for the competition to get underway. Riders gathered for their final briefing from the event organisers and judges, before undertaking their pre-game rituals and preparations. As the heats got underway, the inevitable elimination and progression process ensued. In an event such as this, anything goes. The judging criteria is strict and demanding, and every competitor is prepped to and ready rise to the challenge. No doubt that the level of riding across the board was more than impressive, with kiteboarding’s biggest names making the line-up. With individual style shining through from each rider, there were a few epic moments and ‘firsts’ that saw the spectators and fellow riders stand up from their seats! Brandon Shied from the US stomped a Moby Dick 5 on the Solaire kicker, securing him an 8.5 and the highest score of the day. Noe Font from Spain and international NorthKiteboarding team rider topped the leader board with a 6.5 on the It’s More Fun In The Philippines roof top, with a ledge transfer back tail. However, with all the innovative riding and style throughout the day, there was one rider that shonebrighter …