ISA Speedsurfing Grand Prix Afiartis / Karpathos 2007

Karpathos prepares for thrilling action as the clock counts down to the opening of the 2007 Speed Windsurfing Season.

For the second time in a row, the small village Afiartis on the idyllic island of Karpathos is preparing to play host for the fastest men and women in the speed windsurfing scene. From June 20th till 27th all the big names of the sport will compete for the first points for the 2007 world championship title.

In the men’s fleet, all eyes are set to the reigning world champion and 500m world record holder Finian Maynard from the British Virgin Islands, who clearly dominated last years season. His strongest opponent is expected to be again Bjorn Dunkerbeck, living windsurfing legend. But also French Antoine Albeau, returning from last year time out and F2-Shaper Patrik Diethelm are expected to dispute the places on the podium.

Some more world class windsurfers from other disciplines are joining the speed tour this year, like Wilhelm Schurmann from Brasilia, Sarah Hebert from Armenia and Paulina Pease from the USA.

Joining the men’s competition, also the women’s fleet is very strong for this kick off event of the 2007 season, including 500m World Record Holder Karin Jaggi as well as Nautical Mile World Record Holder Zara Davis and Maui Speed Challenge Winner Paulina Pease.

Though we only had 3 rounds of racing last year, Karpathos is expected to show exceptional conditions again. The spot named “Devils Bay” is well known for crazy conditions up to 10 Beaufort side-offshore.

The ISA Speedsurfing Grand Prix is sanctioned by ISWC (International Speed Windsurfing Class) on behalf of ISAF (International Sailing Federation). The organization will be done by the Municipality of Karpathos in cooperation with the International Speedsurfing Association.