Liam Dunkerbeck, U21 winner of the Gran Canaria Gloria Windsurf World Cup 2024
by Gran Canaria Windsurf World Cup 3 Jul 2024 10:04 BST
Gran Canaria Gloria Windsurf World Cup 2024 © Gran Canaria Gloria Windsurf World Cup
Canarian Liam Dunkerbeck was the standout of the fourth day of the Gran Canaria Gloria Windsurf World Cup 2024, winning the U21 wave category and reinforcing his bid to defend his world title.
Dunkerbeck triumphed over Greeks Lennart Neubauer and Gregory Stathopoulos, who finished second and third respectively, in optimal competition conditions.
Dunkerbeck, who finished fifth in the absolute final yesterday, showcased his excellent form in a closely contested final, securing victory with a spectacular Double Forward (two forward rotations before landing). "I am very happy; it has been a good championship for me, and I felt great sailing. I've noticed a significant improvement from last year, so I'm motivated to keep progressing." The young Gran Canarian also mentioned that he feels increasingly capable of competing at the highest level. "Next year, I hope to be in the final and win it."
Lennart Neubauer, a Greek of German descent, pushed Dunkerbeck to his limits, forcing him to execute jumps typically seen only in the senior category. Neubauer expressed his happiness at finishing on the podium alongside his compatriot and good friend Stathopoulos. "I am very pleased with my performance and my sailing; I wouldn't change anything. I aim to improve my jumps and wave riding and return next year even more complete." He also noted that this year had "the best conditions for juniors in recent years," a significant positive, given that more favorable conditions are usually reserved for the senior category.
Gregory Stathopoulos, who finished third, was thrilled with his performance and sharing the podium with his "great friend" Neubauer and Liam Dunkerbeck. "I'm happy with my sailing. I had good jumps and waves in the best conditions I've seen in Pozo so far," he remarked.
Masters Category
British competitor Ben Proffitt, known as the voice of PWA broadcasts, demonstrated that despite being 46 years old, he still has impressive skills, performing several high-difficulty jumps to retain his title in Pozo Izquierdo, after winning in the 2023 edition. Proffitt, always articulate, mentioned that despite feeling "a bit rusty," he was able to elevate his performance as the rounds progressed, reaching his peak in the final.
Second place went to Michael Friedl, CEO of the renowned Seven Islands Film production company, who showcased his natural talent for wave riding after living in Telde, Gran Canaria for over 35 years. Supported by sponsors Pozowinds and Goya Windsurfing, he said, "I've been competing in Pozo for a long time, and we masters rarely get such good conditions, so it couldn't be better."
Closing the podium was Italian Valter Scotto, who has lived in El Medano, Tenerife for 25 years. He was visibly emotional about continuing to compete at 56 years old after several back and shoulder surgeries, which had hindered his enjoyment of one of his greatest passions. "I love returning to Pozo; it's close to my heart. The level of competition is high, and this beach always provides the right adrenaline to keep sailing," he said.
For the fifth day of action, competitors in the new Slalom X modality are expected to debut. Due to the extreme wind gusts experienced so far, too severe for obstacle races, they have not yet had the opportunity to showcase their talent.
The Gran Canaria Gloria Windsurf World Cup 2024, endorsed by the Canarian and Spanish Sailing Federations, is sponsored by the Cabildo of Gran Canaria through the Sports and Tourism Departments, the Government of the Canary Islands through Promotur, and the Santa Lucía de Tirajana City Council. Additional sponsors include Gloria Palace Hotels, which lends its name to the championship; Seven Island Film; Neilpryde; Red Bull; Volkswagen Canarias; Water Speed APP; and Seven Island Film. The event is also supported by the Canary Islands Technological Institute; Canary Blue; Peña La Vieja Ice Cream; Poema del Mar; Ejove; Bazar Ani; Bahía Grill; Semilleros Sardina; Jaklar, WS, As Acción; Surf, Wind; Windsurf TV; and Daily Dose.