Dan James – Pro Kitesurfer

Back from the first stop of the world tour PKRA in Leucate, France – wow, what a competition! Wind was blowing over 40knots, my smallest kite was a 7m vegas and I was well overpowered for handle passes bit still gave it my all. As my qualifying heat was about to start I lost my board and couldn’t get back to it. I was forced to body drag back to the beach and Mario North threw me his board. I ended up finishing 2nd which put me straight into main competition which was my main goal.

In the main comp I was up against Sebastian Garat. I lost that heat, but still had the double elimination heats which started the following day. Wind blowing even harder so Reno leant me his 5m vegas. I had a close heat against Sergey Belmesov from Russia. Overall position 25th.

Entered best trick comp but judging double passes only, wind still blowing hard and gusty. Managed to pull off a blind judge to flat pass. I came 3rd in my heat against Kevin Langeree, Alberto Rondina and Lewis Crathern. It was great to kite with all the top riders and to see the crowds of spectators cheering us on!

Check out some pictures on my gallery from the event.