GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Dakhla (women’s) 2024 – Rodrigues Triumphs in Dakhla
by Ian MacKinnon 6 Oct 02:02 PDT
29 September – 6 October 2024
Brazil’s Kesiane Rodrigues was an outstanding performer as she clinched victory at the GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Dakhla on the event’s final day, marking her first major win since 2022.
Rodrigues demonstrated exceptional skills when she defeated the tour leader, France’s Capucine Delannoy, in the final, showcasing another impressive performance despite challenging conditions for the competitors.
“I’m really excited to compete with the best in the world,” remarked Rodrigues. “This location is perfect for waves and wind. It’s reminiscent of my home in Jericoacoara [Brazil], so I feel very content.”
Delannoy’s second-place finish in Dakhla secures her position at the top of the world rankings after three tour events, keeping her aspirations to regain her Qatar Airways GKA Kite-Surf World Championship title alive.
“It was a tough competition for me,” stated Delannoy. “I struggled to find the right waves throughout the event. The conditions were difficult, but I performed well and am much closer to the world title. A second place leaves me in a good spot, so I’m thrilled.”
All-Brazilian Matchup
On the climactic sixth day of the Dakhla World Cup, a crucial mid-season stop on the Kite-Surf tour, the day began with smaller waves and lighter winds, prompting athletes to use their 11m and 12m kites.
Only the women’s semi-finals and finals were pending after the men’s event concluded on Day 3, with Australia’s James Carew securing the victory for his second consecutive win.
The first women’s semi-final featured an all-Brazilian showdown, with Serena Luz facing off against Kesiane Rodrigues. Both competitors had already proven their ability to excel in the waves.
Rodrigues quickly took the lead with her fluid surfing and powerful maneuvers. Her initial score of 5.97 was later improved to 6.5 as she found good waves among the few available.
Despite landing a remarkable 9.07 on the opening day, Luz struggled to locate waves that could compare to that score. Ultimately, she finished just two points short and had to compete in the mini-final.
Final Blow
The second semi-final was contested between Capucine Delannoy and Clémence Derrien, both from France. While Derrien posted decent scores in earlier heats, she couldn’t keep up with Delannoy, who secured her spot in the final.
During the mini-final, for third and fourth places, Derrien had a strong performance against Luz. However, the Brazilian held her advantage, and a 6.77 wave score near the end of the heat sealed Luz’s victory and third-place finish.
“I’m elated with my third place here in Dakhla,” expressed Luz. “This place holds a special spot in my heart. I genuinely love the waves and people here. Although the conditions were tough, I gave it my all, achieved third, and I’m pleased with that.”
The final between Kesiane Rodrigues and Capucine Delannoy was highly anticipated. Delannoy earned some good scores early on, but Rodrigues’ wave selection and aggressive surfing in critical sections were crucial, yielding her scores of 6.73 and 8.13 for her two best waves.
Delannoy made every effort to catch up, but Rodrigues’ total score of 14.86 was insurmountable. Rodrigues’ victory in Dakhla narrows the gap with Delannoy, elevating her to second in the standings as they head to the final two events in Borges’ home country.
Don’t miss the next chapter of the action in Ibiraquera, Brazil, later this October.
GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Dakhla – Women:
1 Kesiane Rodrigues (BRA)
2 Capucine Delannoy (FRA)
3 Serena Luz (BRA)
4 Clémence Derrien (FRA)
For more details, visit www.gkakiteworldtour.com
