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wThursday, June 02, 2005 | |
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Farewell Bonaire The wind never blew as a tropical system and at one point a hurricane sucked the wind out of the Caribbean creating a glassy mass of still water on typically windy Lac Bay. Without wind, the Pros could not compete but that did not stop de Action as special guest, Irie Man, Brian Talma and other key players grouped together to make the King of the Caribbean an action packed week of parties and fun. Thirty seven men and sixteen women registered in the Pro Event representing countries as far away as New Zealand, Sweden, New Caledonia and beyond. The top sailors from around the world traveled to this small Dutch island of 12,000 people to experience what is described by some as the best freestyle venue in the world. Pros such as Karin Jaggi arrived early to train and were treated some magnificent conditions. As soon as the event commenced with a few short heats, the winds shut off and competition ended. Naturally competitors, event staff and volunteers were very disappointed but they turned their attention to the other activities well known in Bonaire. By day, the pros went diving and snorkeling. Judge Frank Roquet was often seen headed to the Blue Hole where he professed he saw a Manta Ray as big as he was. Other pros and press hit the water to experience Bonaires undersea adventures. At night Event Social Directors Ann Johnson and Kazandra Rodriguez teamed up with some of the best hosts on Bonaire to offer delicious menus and pumping music. Few got home before 3 AM each morning. It was an incredible night scene in Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire. The windsurfing event coincided with the Harbourtown Jazz Festival so the town was on fire. Not to miss was Taste of Bonaire, a culinary experience and Rincon Culture Night. What made the week hyped up was the arrival of Irie Man, Brian Talma and Svein Rassmussen, the owner of Starboard. Starboard was the proud sponsor of the Premier Pro Kids World Freestyle Championships. These talented kids did not need much wind to show off their stuff. Hawaiian hot shots, Connor Baxter and Ridge and Kai Lenny made guest appearances dazzling the crowd with their skills. Local woz kids such as Choko Frans and Kiri Thode wowed the crowd. Other talent in the Junior local division included Chris Bernabella who won the Mens Amateur Division and Arthuro Soliano who competed in the junior division. These two sailors demonstrated superb light wind skill. The younger kids won the hearts of many. Go to http://www.bonaireworldfreestyle.com/ soon for official Pro Kids Results. The press contingent was strong with a showing from Holland, France, The UK, Venezuela, Aruba, Curacao, USA and beyond. For a viewing of super images shot by sensational photographer John Carter go to http://www.pwaworldtour.com/. The shots taken are stellar and truly reflect the spirit of the event. Bonaire will always host an event, even if the wind did not cooperate this year. The committee members are already at work with new tricks and ideas up their sleeves to make the 2006 event brighter and better. Thanks to the many sponsors who made this event a great success. Masha danki to the many volunteers who worked for days and weeks to put on a great show. Go to http://www.bonaireworldfreestyle.com/ and see the sponsor page to support those who support King of the Caribbean. See you in 2006. Ann Phelan Bonaire Sailing Foundation (BSaF) posted by editors at 6/02/2005 12:15:00 AM |
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