Dutchwoman, Turk rule ICTSI kiteboarding tilt

MANILA, Philippines – In a dazzling display of skill and athleticism, Mariska Wildenberg of the Netherlands and Turkey’s Ilhan Aykurt emerged as standout performers, showcasing their awe-inspiring kiteboarding prowess in the final leg of the ICTSI Philippine Kiteboarding Tour at the Aqua Resort in Bulabog Beach, Boracay over the weekend.

Wildenberg, a prominent qualifier for this year’s Worlds and Europeans, and Aykurt captivated both spectators and judges with their remarkable tricks, spins and flips as the dynamic duo clinched the top honors in the Freestyle event, marking the conclusion of an exhilarating Season 9 that unfolded across premier kiteboarding venues in the country.

The competition featured a diverse range of disciplines, underscoring the versatility and adrenaline-fueled excitement inherent in kiteboarding. With fierce competition across the board, kiteboard athletes demonstrated exceptional talent, pushing the boundaries of the sport to new heights.

Wildenberg continued to make waves by dominating the women’s side of the Masters division, while Stefan Vance claimed the top spot in the men’s category. The duo also reigned supreme in the Foil Racing class, displaying their expertise and dominance in various kiteboarding disciplines.

Local talent Dilbert Bayog and Triina Trei of Estonia, on the other hand, flashed their aerial prowess in the Hangtime category, staying airborne for remarkable durations. Bayog secured victory with an impressive 6.44 seconds, while Trei took the ladies’ crown with a gravity-defying 5.5 seconds.

The event drew kiteboarding athletes from the US, China, Europe and the Middle East, further emphasizing its global appeal.

In the Novice division, Jessica Field of the US and Jerry Cerrera emerged as the Twin Tip Racing champions, displaying promising potential, while Warren Vance took the Grand Masters title and Doque delos Santos triumphed in the Masters category of the event sponsored by ICTSI in support to PKA’s commitment to nurturing Filipino talent for the international stage.

“We are happy to host again the PKA on its ninth season and thankful for considering Boracay Island as its final venue,” said Mayor Frolibar Bautista. “The municipality of Malay supports such events to promote Boracay Island as the country’s top sports tourism destination.”

PKA president Jay Ortiz expressed satisfaction with the tournament’s success and thanked the winners, participants, sponsors and hosts.

With legs in Siquijor Island, Cagbalete Island in Mauban, Quezon, and Sta. Fe, Bantayan in Cebu, and finally Boracay, the Tour solidified its status as the longest-running kiteboarding tour in Asia, contributing to the sport’s growth and popularity.

The PKA Tour Season 9 Boracay leg was supported by the Malay Tourism Office, Hyde Kites and Wings, ICT Cloverleaf Trading, The Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast, Lemoni Café, Dinibeach Bar and Restaurant, Valhalla Bar and Restaurant, Gwapitos, One Island Food Trade, Locally, Epic Boracay, Happy Bongalow, Greenyard Kite Center, Mandala Spa, Tirta Spa; Salaver Clinic, Nature Spring, Jandi Skincare, Solara Boracay, Villa Caemilla, Babos Boracay, Cathy’s Bistro, Back Beach Burgers, Giwajib Korean Restaurant, Currentstyl, Kape Drip, Spoonfull Confections, Bulabar, Indiga Tattoo, Double Dragon Apparel, Alcobendas-Garcia Dental Clinic, Able Designs, Boracay Water Sports Association, Diamond Water Sports and Panay Cable Television.