63 starters from 10 European countries found their way to the IFCA Slalom Youth & Master European Championships 2009 at Schönberger Strand, Kiel, Germany which started today. The first event day was already full of action. Both fleets, youth (under 20) with 38 starters and master (over 35) with 25 starters completed one full slalom elimination. The current Slalom World Champion Bernd Flessner dominated the masters fleet whereas William Alihiagalelei from France won in the youth category.

Bernd Flessner - Pic: Katja Bürgelt

Bernd Flessner - Pic: Katja Bürgelt

 

 

The first event day started very relaxed. During the afternoon the wind started to pick up to 15 to 24 knots – perfect for starting the first slalom elimination of the regatta. In the category master Bernd Flessner (GER-16, F2, Neil Pryde) from Germany dominated all heats and the semi final. He also finished first in the final and relegated Philipp Müller (GER-100, Gaastra) from Germany to the second place. Thade Behrends (GER-94, Exocet) from Germany finished third in front of Pawel Dittrich (GER-381, Techno, Gaastra) also from Germany. Christophe Waerzeggers (BEL-29, Maui Sails) from Belgium scored the fifth place.  

Slalom Youth - Pic: Katja Bürgelt

Slalom Youth - Pic: Katja Bürgelt

 

 

In the category youth William Alihiagalelei (FRA-540, AHD, Loft Sails) from France scored first place in front of the current Slalom Youth Vice-World Champion Sebastian Kördel (GER-220, Lorch, Neil Pryde) from Germany. The third place went to Teade de Jong (NED-777, Mistral, North Sails) from the Netherlands. The following places were fought out among two French sailors. Sebastien Bonhomme Alla (FRA-511, Challenger Sails) scored fourth place in front of Benjamin Remy (FRA-712, JP, Neil Pryde).

 

Result Masters:
1. Bernd Flessner
2. Philipp Müller
3. Thade Behrends

 

Result Youth: 
1. William Alihiagalelei
2. Sebastian Kördel
3. Teade de Jong

 

The wind forecast for the second event day looks very promising. Four to five beaufort are predicted so that the visitors can watch exciting races. In addition to the windsurf competitions, a huge supporting programme entertains all visitors. One highlight is the Testival of the Surf-Expo with some manufactures from the windsurf industry. Furthermore several funsport activities such as Speedminton invite everyone to have fun. Refreshments will also be served. Different live bands and DJs will provide entertainment and create a nice atmosphere.

© Text: Choppy Water

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