California Windsurf Cup: Anton Richter dominates wave riding on Sylt

Anton Richter (GER-6, JP-Australia, Neilpryde) proved his class in wave riding at the California Summer Opening on Sylt. In seven-force winds from the west-southwest and waves up to logo-high, the Kiel native dominated the competition and secured victory in a complete double elimination - although this was also favoured by a small field of riders. The decision to sound the wave alarm nevertheless proved to be a good move - because onshore conditions often make life difficult for riders on Sylt. This time, luck was on the organisers' side, as the conditions for wave riding at the California Windsurf Cup had not been this good for years.

Anton Richter already put in a flawless performance in the single elimination. On his way to the final, he eliminated Sylt local Martin Holzweg (JP-Australia, Neilpryde) and Sebastian Bail (GER-150, Patrik). He then beat Nick Spangenberg (GER-141, Duotone) in the final. This allowed Richter to relax and wait for his challengers to fight in the second round before he had to fight for victory again in the double elimination final.

In the decisive final, Richter once again faced Nick Spangenberg - the teacher training student from Kassel has already competed in several World Cups. Nevertheless, Anton Richter from Kiel retained the upper hand with solid back and stalled front loops and secured overall victory in the waveriding discipline. "That was a great day! We were able to ride a complete wave double elimination in really good conditions. It must have been ages since this was possible. I was very happy with my performance"Richter was delighted after his victory.

Women's power in rough conditions

A number of women were also at the start and braved the rough North Sea conditions - no easy feat. Nadia Jablonski (GER-221, Sailloft) from Kiel narrowly came out on top. She was followed by sisters Frida Miron (GER-129, Sailloft) and Emma Miron (GER-508, Sailloft) from the Baltic island of Rügen. We would have loved to show you photos of the women's waveriding - unfortunately the organisers did not provide any pictures.

After two successful days of fin slalom and wave riding, the organisers are optimistic about Saturday. With wind forces of three from southerly directions, the foilers could be flying over the North Sea on Brandenburg beach. The California Summer Opening Sylt runs until Whit Monday, 9 June.

Wave results:

Wave overall

1. Anton Richter (GER-6)
2. Nick Spangenberg (GER-141)
3. Sebastian Bail (GER-150)

Wave - Ladies

1. Nadia Jablonski (GER-221)
2. Frida Miron (GER-129)
3. Emma Miron (GER-508)

Wave - Youth

1. Anton Richter (GER-6)
2. Mika Henning (GER-64)
3. Jesper-Mo Thomsen (GER-510)