Event Overview
Held in April 2018 in Leucate, France, this event was the season opener for the GKA Kiteboarding World Tour. It was hosted as part of the Mondial du Vent, a long-running and internationally renowned wind sports festival. The competition was organized under the “Air Games” format—a Twin-Tip discipline combining Big Air, kite loops, and Freestyle tricks.
Location and Conditions
Located in southern France, Leucate is famous for its signature Tramontana winds blowing down from the Pyrenees. Under normal circumstances, it is a world-renowned spot that delivers the hardcore, gusty winds and flat water perfectly suited for high-level Air Games competitions.
Format and Participating Riders
Although top riders gathered from around the world to compete in the Air Games format, no heats were run due to the unfavorable weather conditions.
Highlights and Iconic Matchups
The 2018 event was struck by an unprecedented lack of wind. It marked the first time in 20 years that the Mondial du Vent experienced such completely windless conditions during the contest window. Without sufficient wind to run the heats, the official competition was cancelled.