Welcome to the world of kite-surfing!

Welcome to the world of kite-surfing!

Experience the sheer joy and adrenaline of the Defender GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Sylt, where athletes, spectators, and nature unite in a thrilling celebration of skill and passion. Explore the vibrant 450-meter promenade with its partner stands, offering everything from kite-surfing gear to delectable catering and drinks. This unique event on the GKA World Cup Tour showcases the extraordinary talent of kite-surfers from around the globe against the picturesque backdrop of Sylt’s untamed beauty.

Join us for an unforgettable journey of inspiring athleticism, joyful camaraderie, and boundless adventure.

All the latest information regarding the GKA Kite-Surf World Tour can be found on the official ‍GKA website.

Disciplines

Kite-Surf

“Kite-Surf” is a combined wave and strapless freestyle discipline that aims to find the most complete surf­board rider.

Hydrofoil Big Air

The ‘Hydrofoil Big Air’ world cups are the ultimate competitions for hydrofoil big air riders.

Wave riding is about surfing with kite support. Loops, pads and wax are allowed on the kite-surfing board. For the evaluation and to achieve high scores, among other things, fluid riding of the wave and spectacular maneuvers on the lip of the wave is a prerequisite. In advance, a maximum number of waves is determined in which the individual elements can be shown by the rider. The evaluation of the individual maneuvers will be adapted to the current wind and wave conditions. The following will be evaluated:

  • Degree of difficulty of the maneuvers performed.
  • Commitment in the maneuvers performed and the risk taken to perform them.
  • Variety and combination of maneuvers within the same wave.
  • Speed and power
  • Flow and linking of maneuvers.
  • Size of the waves ridden, directly linked to the degree of difficulty of maneuvers performed in each wave.
  • Innovative and progressive maneuvers.
Strapless Freestyle is about artistic flight maneuvers with the kite-surf board without footstraps. This discipline is all about physics! Not in the conventional sense, but the riders seem to defeat gravity during their moves. They show spectacular tricks and maneuvers where the board seems to be weightless. For example, they take the board in their hands, perform their tricks with it above the water, and then land again standing on the board. The kite provides them with the appropriate lift and propulsion.
  • Height and Amplitude: Evaluates the combination of height and amplitude of tricks, considering increasing importance with stronger wind conditions, alongside risk and technical difficulty.
  • Technical Difficulty: Measures the complexity of tricks performed during the heat
  • Power: Assesses the strength during trick execution, factoring in speed, kite position, height, and amplitude.
  • Risk Factor: Considers the power, height, amplitude, technical difficulty, and the competitor’s commitment and physical challenge during the execution of tricks.
  • Smoothness: Evaluates the fluidity and seamless execution and landing of tricks.
  • Innovation: Rewards new and distinct tricks not previously performed in competition, considering all judging criteria and landing for scoring.

Hydrofoil kite-surfing, often referred to as foil kiting, is a dynamic and innovative discipline within the kite-surfing sport. It involves using a hydrofoil board, which has a wing-like structure attached to a mast below the board, allowing the rider to lift above the water’s surface. This setup reduces water resistance and enables smootherfaster, and more efficient movement, even in light wind conditions. Hydrofoil kite-surfing offers a unique and exhilarating experience, combining the thrill of flight with the grace of gliding across the water.

  • Technical Difficulty: Evaluates the complexity of tricks performed during the heat.
  • Smoothness: Assesses the fluidity and seamless execution and landing of tricks.
  • Landings: Rewards clean landings without the board touching the water, with judges considering the risk involved in the trick.
  • Height and Amplitude: Measures the height and extent of tricks, factoring in wind conditions and the combination with risk and technical difficulty.
  • Risk Factor: Considers the power, height, amplitude, technical difficulty, and overall commitment and physical challenge during the execution of tricks.
  • Size of the waves ridden, directly linked to the degree of difficulty of maneuvers performed in each wave.
  • Innovation: Recognizes new tricks that have never been landed in competition before.

Athletes

Association

Global Kite-Sports Association

The global kite-sports association (gka) aims to represent the interests of the kite-sports industry to support and promote the interests of all (professional) kite riders.

‍The GKA works with the kite-sports industry to provide reliable information about market developments and to provide riders with a platform to achieve the goals of the GKA. The GKA’s main objective, however, is to continually ensure that kite-surfing continues safe practice through the development and implementation of equipment standards.

WorldSailing

WorldSailing is the world governing body for the sport of sailing, officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

World Sailing is responsible for:

  • the promotion of the sport internationally,
  • managing sailing at the Olympic and Paralympic Games,
  • developing the Racing Rules of Sailing and regulations for all sailing competitions,
  • the training of judges, umpires and other administrators,
  • the development of the sport around the world,
  • and representing the sailors in all matters concerning the sport.

News

Kite-Surf Festival Area

450 Meters of Action, Entertainment & Beach Vibes

Explore a variety of exhibitor stands featuring the latest in beach fashion, accessories and more. Our partners have plenty in store to keep the action going—from thrilling activities and special promotions to autograph sessions with the world’s top kite-surfers and live DJ sets that bring the beach to life.

Get ready for non-stop energy at the Festival Area of the Defender GKA Kite-Surf World Cup Sylt! Stretching along a 450-meter promenade, this vibrant hub is packed with excitement for visitors of all ages.

Add to that a wide selection of food and drink options, and you’ve got the perfect place to relax, recharge, and celebrate the spirit of the event. Whether you’re chasing wind, waves, or just good vibes, the Festival Area is the place to be!

Aftermovie 2024

Relive the best moments of the GKA Kitesurf World Cup 2024

Sponsors

Title Partner

Premium Partner

Event Partner