PWA Japan 2025: Still waiting for wind in Yokosuka - Tow In-Show of the freestyle locals
The promising weather forecast for the second day of the Fly! ANA Yokosuka, Miura Windsurf World Cup 2025 unfortunately did not materialise. Despite initial hopes, the wind conditions remained too weak for regular racing throughout the day. Although an attempt was made to start the first heat of the men's elimination in the morning in marginal 5-9 knots of wind, this had to be cancelled quickly. When the wind did not return in the afternoon either, the athletes were finally dismissed at 2 pm. A few freestyle locals still managed to get some action on the water by starting a tow-in show!
Less and less room for error
For the world championship leaders, this means an increasingly pressurised situation, while the chasers sense new opportunities. With only five days of competition planned in Japan, there is a growing likelihood that scratch results could become a luxury that not all athletes can afford. Especially if the wind forecast for tomorrow fails to materialise again, this could have a significant impact on the World Championships. With 48 men and 18 women, each complete elimination takes a relatively long time. Four or more runs - if the first stringer comes into play - are therefore by no means guaranteed.
For Matteo Iachino and Justine Lemeteyer, this means additional pressure, as they are the only ones with something to lose, while all the other competitors can only win. A single mistake or material damage could suddenly turn the World Championship battle on its head without the favourites having the chance to recover. For the leaders, especially Iachino with his comfortable lead, a relatively stress-free situation turns into a scenario in which practically anything can happen.
Hopeful outlook for Saturday
The weather forecast for Saturday looks promising on paper, with winds forecast to reach 14-18 knots during the morning. The forecast is slightly stronger than today's, so the chances for the first official races on Saturday should be much better. The skippers' meeting has been scheduled for 8am (GMT+9), with the first start planned for 8.30am - which corresponds to 0.30am European time.
