We take a look at the competitors before the first slalom event of the year opens tomorrow…
As a new event on the tour, Reggio Calabria holds host to the world’s finest slalom sailors. With close to 80 competitors across the men’s and ladies’ fleets, let’s have a look at who could come out on top.
MEN
Defending his World Title is the powerhouse Bjorn Dunkerbeck. As the most successful windsurfer ever, Bjorn has decades of experience and is a dominating force on the race course. His main rival has to be Antoine Albeau. For the past few years the top spot has been juggled between the pair, can Antoine beat ‘The Terminator’ with his new RRD boards?
Following close behind is Ben van der Steen. Ranked third last year, Benny definitely has the skills and speed to take the win, but can he match the experience of Albeau and Dunkerbeck?
With a fresh sail sponsor, Josh Angulo definitely has the motivation to come out on top in Italy. Finishing the 2011 season in 9th, can Josh start 2012 with a better result?
WOMEN
Reigning World Champion Sarah-Quita Offringa will not be attending the first stop on the PWA tour this year. Eager to kick the year off in first place will be multiple-champion Karin Jaggi. Her experience will be sure to give her the advantage over some of the newer competitors, but will that be enough? The likes of Alice Arutkin, Valerie Arrighetti and Lena Erdil will all be tough to beat.
The PWA have released a full preview of the event, you can read it HERE.
