Dutch rules ICTSI Kiteboarding Tour

Cohan van Dijk of the Netherlands delivered a world-class performance in punishing conditions, carving out a dramatic victory over Japan’s Hiro Karamon and Thailand’s Joseph Weston to reign supreme in the men’s freestyle division of the ICTSI Philippine Kiteboarding Tour Season 11 at Aqua Resort in Boracay recently.

Powered by relentless Amihan winds blasting well beyond 30 knots, the final leg transformed into a high-adrenaline proving ground where only the most technically precise and physically resilient riders could thrive. The gusts created towering chop and unpredictable ramps, forcing competitors to dig deep into their bag of tricks while maintaining razor-sharp board control.

Extreme weather ultimately derailed the White Fleet foil racing finale. After stops in Calatagan and Cagbalete Island, the tour ended with unsafe conditions — violent gusts and heavy swell — forcing race director Leon Chu to cancel the races. Despite top athletes like Fawn Banyapa, Tai Sipang, Chitresh Tatha, and local ace Warner Janoya being ready to compete, safety took priority over the planned showcase.

Even without the foil racing finale, the event delivered high-intensity action across divisions, with riders pushing their limits through powered kite loops, massive boosts and technical handle passes under extreme pressure.

Tournament director Mars Gersbach emphasized the magnitude of the event, sponsored by ICTSI, noting the complexity of running multiple fleets in such unforgiving conditions. The combination of strong wind windows and tight race coordination pushed both organizers and athletes to their limits.

Philippine Kiteboarding Association president Jay Ortiz highlighted the significance of attracting a deep international field, reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as a premier kiteboarding destination capable of hosting world-class competition.