Red Bull King of the Air 2024: Big Air Thrills Amidst a Waiting Game
Mon 2nd Dec, 2024 @ 12:00 pm
The Red Bull King of the Air 2024 kicked off breathtakingly at Kite Beach, Cape Town, on Saturday, 30 November 2024. Day 1 delivered electrifying action against the backdrop of Table Mountain. Yet, as the competition entered Day 2, the focus shifted from high-flying acrobatics to the waiting game, with Cape Town’s iconic southeasterly wind—the “Cape Doctor”—failing to deliver the conditions needed for another round of big air brilliance.
“This event is about showcasing the best of Big Air kiteboarding,” said Sergio Cantagalli, Sportive Director. “To ensure its credibility as the premier contest in the world, we only run when the conditions are optimal. Riders perform best in strong winds paired with the right swell.”
Chasing the Perfect Wind
Unlike traditional contests with fixed schedules, Red Bull King of the Air operates within a flexible weather window between November 30 and December 8. The competition’s reliance on Cape Town’s unique wind phenomenon ensures it lives up to its reputation as the pinnacle of Big Air kiteboarding.
To set the stage, southeasterly winds blowing at least at a consistent 35 knots (65km/ph) are required to power the massive aerial tricks and explosive jumps that have made the King of the Air famous. The infamous ‘Cape Doctor’ is driven by a complex dance of high- and low-pressure systems—a dynamic that can be unpredictable, leaving both competitors and fans on edge.
Day 1: A Historic Start
The event launched on November 30 with a historic milestone: the inaugural Women’s Division, a major step forward for gender equity in the sport. Six of the world’s top female Big Air kiteboarders soared to new heights, impressing a lively crowd of over 7,000 on the beach and countless more watching via live stream worldwide.
Francesca Maini (Great Britain) and Pippa Van Iersel (Netherlands) dominated their respective heats, securing spots in the final, while Zara Hoogenraad (Netherlands) —current World Champion—triumphed in a nail-biting semi-final against Angely Bouillot (France) to claim the third finals berth.
For the Open Division, reigning champion Andrea Principi set the tone with a dazzling display of technical mastery. “He was untouchable,” one fan remarked as the Italian rider performed gravity-defying tricks that underscored his status as the one to beat. Local favourite Luca Ceruti and the likes of Jamie Overbeek (Netherlands) and Lorenzo Casati (Italy) also delivered standout performances, keeping the audience on its feet well into the evening. It was also the very first time a foil-boarded competed in the event, with Frenchman Charles Brodel powering his unique craft into some amazing moves.
The Waiting Game on Day 2
While Day 2 promised more action, the winds failed to materialise, leaving competitors eager but grounded. The call to hold off proved crucial for maintaining the integrity of the event, with Cantagalli affirming, “This isn’t just about running heats; it’s about ensuring every rider can perform at their absolute best.”
With forecasts suggesting the Cape Doctor’s return in the coming days, anticipation is building for what could be a dramatic resumption of competition. Fans and athletes alike remain optimistic, with many preparing for another round of thrilling action as soon as the conditions align.
What’s Next?
The Red Bull King of the Air is far from over. Stay tuned for live updates, expert analysis, and jaw-dropping highlights.
Head over to http://www.redbullkingoftheair.com or follow Red Bull’s official social channels. You can also replay Day 1 on Red Bull TV!
