It‘s a wrap! The first ever Global Wingsports Association (GWA) wingfoiling exhibition finished this week, offering a spectacular show of racing and freestyle competitions.
With a diverse field of riders representing four nations, the youngest rider aged 12, the competitions were carried out on beautiful Lake Silvaplana in the Swiss Alps as part of the prestigious Engadinwind event.
The first day of the GWA wingfoiling exhibition saw the race competition, with fierce racing going down in stable wind conditions and the competitors displaying absolute wing control and precision on their way to victory. The race was finished with Michael Näf of Switzerland taking 3rd place, and Henning Nockel of Germany and Swiss local hero Balz Müller battling it out over 1st and 2nd place with foiling veteran Balz Müller claiming the victory in the race discipline.
Day two was packed with freestyle action, and competitors showcased the edges of what’s possible with a wing and a hydrofoil board: the audience saw breath-taking jumps and newly invented tricks performed with grace and effortless fluidity, offering a glimpse of what this new sport has to offer in terms of athletic ability and showmanship. The freestyle competition was dominated by Swiss national Michael Näf, closely followed by fellow countryman Balz Müller taking 2nd place and Henning Nockel of Germany coming in 3rd.
The results of the two days of wingfoiling exhibition led to an overall result of Balz Müller (Switzerland) in 1st place, Michael Näf (Switzerland) in 2nd place and Henning Nockel (Germany) in 3rd overall.
A handshake between GWA General Secretary Jörgen Vogt and Engadinwind organiser Christian Müller sealed the deal for 2021: The GWA is looking forward to joining the Engadinwind event with a range of wingfoiling competitions again next year!
