AWT Goya Pro Cabo Verde Kicks Off in Style
Last night the Opening Party for the Goya Cabo Verde Pro contest took place on the exotic island of Sal. Some of the biggest names in windsurfing attended the event along with local watermen, dignitaries and business men. The true spirit of the American Windsurfing Tour came out in force which was both complimented and mirrored by the spirit of this island, the host of the next 14 days of competition period.
It was a truly honoring and humbling experience to be in the presence of the officials and local people of the island, mainly the Varidor de Sport Sr Pedro Neves who spoke so expressively about the heritage and rich culture of Sal and the multitude of natural resources this island offers, in particular the wind and the waves. There was a magnificent sense of comradeship and family as the local people welcomed the American Windsurfing Tour with open arms on the island and blessed us with wishes of a fun, successful and wind-filled event.
The atmosphere was electrifying as the Cretcheu Restaurant opened its roof-top terrace to celebrate what will no doubt be, a momentous and historical event. With Batucada and Capoeira (drummers) setting the beat we all sat back and enjoyed the stunning Atlantic sunset. The skill level of the international riders who have registered will undoubtedly provide a platform for some of the best windsurfing in the world at one of the top spots in the world. Kevin Prtichard, Camille Juban, Boujmaa Guilloul, Kauli Seadi and Matteo Spanu are some of the world famous faces who will be putting on a show. But what is more impressive is the fact there is a huge contingent of local riders entering both amateur and pro fleets in all 3 disciplines; Surf, Windsurf and SUP.
There is also a women’s division with local rider and event organizer Vickey Abbott at the helm, ready to show the world what ladies can manage at this world-class break! This is what the AWT and the island of Cabo Verde is all about, the perfect combination of the best conditions, with the top riders whilst respecting the local environment and including all windsurfers. Just Family style!
AWT Opening Party!!
Marcilio Browne’s edit from this week on Cabo Verde
http://vimeo.com/120518872?from=facebook
Click here to check out the rider brackets for the heats http://ridescoremobiles.com/surf/widget/draw.php?username=awt#signet0
Make sure you tune in to www.americanwindsurftour.com or our facebook and twitter pages every day to check for updates on the contest and interviews and photos of all our riders! Forecast is looking promising for tomorrow afternoon and the coming days so stay tuned!
