In the BAKL Big Break, 8 rising kitesurfers battled it out in Guriu, Brazil, for the chance of a lifetime—a shot at a €30,000 prize and mentorship from Richard Hamilton. We caught up with the winner, Victor Emanoel, to hear about his epic win and what’s next for him. Don’t miss this exclusive interview!

The BAKL Big Break: Giving Kitesurfers Their Shot at the Top

Big air kitesurfing is one of the most exhilarating sports on the planet, with riders soaring to incredible heights, pulling off insane tricks, and battling the elements. But behind every spectacular jump lies an untold story of hard work, passion, and resilience. And for many talented riders, the only thing standing between them and the global stage is one big break. That’s where the BAKL Big Break comes in.

The BAKL Big Break is a groundbreaking competition designed to give eight up-and-coming riders the opportunity to showcase their talent and change their lives. These riders come from all corners of the world, many from incredibly tough backgrounds—some have faced poverty, while others have overcome personal hardships to get where they are today. Despite their challenges, their skill and drive are undeniable. All they need is a chance.

With €30,000—the biggest prize purse in big air-kiting history—up for grabs, the stakes were higher than ever. The winners also secure a coveted spot in BAKL Battles, where they’ll face off against the top riders in the world. This competition isn’t just about winning—it’s about making dreams come true and giving these riders the platform to launch their careers on the global stage.

What makes the BAKL Big Break unique is its new competition format, designed to be more thrilling and entertaining than traditional contests. We wanted to create something that not only pushes the riders to their limits but also captivates a broader audience, helping to grow the sport we love.

At its heart, the BAKL Big Break is about more than just competition—it’s about providing opportunities, telling inspiring stories, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in big air kiting. For these riders, it’s a chance to take flight, rise above their challenges, and seize the moment that could change everything.

Victor Emanoel, it’s great to have you here. Massive congratulations on your win at the BAKL Big Break! How did it feel to hear your name called as the winner?! 

Thank you so much for the compliments! I’m so happy about this victory! I put in so much physical and mental hard work to earn this title, and it feels incredible that it all paid off. Winning at the spot where I first learned to kite, my home spot, and having my friends there to cheer me on made it even more special!

Tell us a bit about yourself; who introduced you to kiteboarding, and how old were you when you started?

Kitesurfing is my passion—I started at just 9 years old, learning with some older friends who were already into the sport. I can’t even remember what life was like before kiting!

How have your parents supported your kiteboarding journey? 

I didn’t grow up with parents who kitesurf—my father has always seen it as a dangerous sport, and my parents are divorced. I was raised by my mother, who supported me as much as she could. We didn’t live a life of luxury but a simple one, with enough to live healthily and happily. We worked hard for everything we have today, and I’m so grateful for that because it made me stronger, more responsible, and more mature. Thankfully, she never opposed my passion for kiting!

How did you prepare for the competition, both mentally and physically?

I usually train almost every day, both in and out of the water, with aerobics, stretching, and mobility exercises. I also like to practice breathing, meditation, and visualisation techniques. I enjoy reading, too—it helps me stay calm and focused.

What does winning the BAKL Big Break mean to you personally and professionally?

Winning the BAKL Big Break was an incredible, emotional experience. This one is the most meaningful among all the trophies I’ve won. I believe every competition helps me grow as an athlete and a person. This victory, especially in such a prestigious event with amazing prize money, is a dream come true. It’s the opportunity I’ve always been waiting for… and this is just the beginning!

You mentioned that this win is life-changing—how do you plan to use the prize money to further your career?

My dream is to travel abroad for the first time, kiting in different spots around the world, capturing it all, and experiencing the best places for big air. I plan to visit Europe’s famous big air spots, like Barcares, Tarifa, and the Canary Islands, where I can train with some of the world’s top riders and keep pushing my limits! I’d also love to explore Italy—especially for the food!

How did you get connected with Eleveight, and how has Eleveight contributed to your progression as a rider?

My girlfriend, Flora, is also a surfer and kitesurfer, and in 2021, she was invited to a shoot for the brand in Taiba, where she mentioned me. The brand was immediately interested, and soon after, we were in touch and organised my first material test—it was love at first loop! In 2022, I officially began my collaboration with Eleveight. It’s not just about representing a brand; it’s about riding a brand you truly love! With Eleveight, my progress feels smoother, and my sessions are a lot happier.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced leading up to and during the competition?

Competing against such talented riders, knowing each one had the potential to win, wasn’t easy. 

How important do you think competitions like the BAKL Big Break are for giving opportunities to riders who may not have had the same resources?

Events like the BAKL provide a major incentive for riders aiming to make a name in kitesurfing. Unfortunately, investment from companies in this sector is still low in terms of competition. Like what BAKL and its sponsors offer, prize money allows for greater media exposure and visibility, ensuring riders receive prizes that truly support their efforts and growth in the sport.

How do you see your win impacting your local kiteboarding community, and what advice would you give to other aspiring riders who face similar challenges?

The kite community is huge here in northern Ceará, between Preà, Jeri, and Guriu. Winning at home, surrounded by friends, was incredible—not just celebrating with them right after the final but in the days that followed, too! Those who know me understand how much love and passion I’ve poured into this amazing sport, so seeing them share in my joy and recognize my hard work means everything to me. I hope my story can inspire others who dream of becoming kiteboarding athletes because anything is possible with hard work, love, and dedication!

Thank you, Victor! We can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings! 

Thanks, Jen!

 

Videos

BAKL Big Break - Trailer
By Jen Tyler
Italian/Egyptian Jen Tyler grew up on the sandy beaches of the Red Sea and has been on the IKSURFMAG & Tonic Mag team since 2017.

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