Event Overview
Hosted at the historically significant Kite Beach in Cabarete, Dominican Republic, the 2018 GKA Air Games Cabarete served as the third stop of the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) Kiteboarding World Tour, following events in Leucate (France) and Tarifa (Spain).
Location and Conditions
The event was held at Cabarete on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, an international kiteboarding mecca. The location is characterized by warm water year-round and strong trade winds fueled by afternoon thermal effects. The varied water conditions, featuring offshore reef breaks mixed with inside flat water, provided the optimal stage for the Air Games to test the riders’ comprehensive skills.
Format and Participating Riders
The “Air Games” format adopted for this event was specifically designed to find the most complete twin-tip rider. Competitors were judged on a mixed criteria that integrated big air height, board-offs, kite loops, and highly technical handle-pass freestyle tricks.
Highlights and Iconic Matchups
Under consistent conditions, top male riders captivated the crowd by seamlessly blending complex handle-passes with big air. The women’s division also saw exchanges of massive height and high-difficulty tricks, making the event a symbol of the rapid evolution in combining big air with technical freestyle. A major highlight for the host nation was local rider Posito Martinez, who delivered spectacular riding backed by enthusiastic local support.
Show Event Results (Spoiler Alert)
Men’s Division
- 1st Place: Carlos Mario (Brazil)
- 2nd Place: Jesse Richman (USA)
- 3rd Place: Posito Martinez (Dominican Republic)
Women’s Division
- 1st Place: Mikaili Sol (Brazil)
- 2nd Place: Hannah Whiteley (United Kingdom)
- 3rd Place: Pippa van Iersel (Netherlands)
Search Aliases: 2018 GKA Air Games Cabarete, 2018GKAAirGamesCabarete