Today on Radikite, we’re putting aside the kitesurfing lessons in Tarifa to talk about two experts in the sport we adore. Spain is full of great athletes, and this time, we want to talk about girls. We have interviewed the two Spanish riders who will be competing this year in the World Kiteboarding League freestyle category. The first stage of this season is taking place between April 11th and 17th, and here’s what they tell us.
Rita Arnaus
Age: 21 years
Hometown: Barcelona, España
Achievements:
- 1ª Cto. España freestyle 2016
- 1ª Freestyle Sosh Cup France 2016
- 5ª World Kiteboarding League Cabarete 2016
- 5ª World Kiteboarding League Nueva Caledonia 2016
- 1ª Cto. España freestyle 2015
- 1ª Copa España freestyle 2015
- 3ª Cto. del mundo Big Air (VKWC) Tarifa 2015
Favorite Spot: Any place where I am with friends and there is wind! Cumbuco, in Brazil, has the best conditions for me, both for freestyle and kitewave.
Sponsors: Best Kiteboarding, Brunotti, SJCAM
Hello, Rita! We’re amazed at the progress you’ve made in recent years, becoming one of the top riders in the world. How did you achieve this?
Hello, Radikite! Thank you very much! Well, there’s really no secret—training, perseverance, and having a dream with a strong desire to achieve it is what it takes to make it a reality.
A new season begins. What are your expectations for this year, 2017? What are your goals?
I’m really looking forward to starting the competition season. Last year, I finished in seventh place in the world rankings, so my goal for this year is to improve on that. I also want to explore other kite spots and collaborate with my sponsors.
If you had to highlight one moment from your entire career, what would it be? Could you describe how you felt?
It was when I reached the third position on the podium in the world competition in Tarifa. It was an indescribable moment, it filled me so much… I was nervous, happy, euphoric, in a state of pure bliss. Moments like that give me even more reasons to continue doing what I love, competing, and training hard because the rewards always come.
You keep making us jealous with your travels and lifestyle on your social media. If we were planning to take a plane for kitesurfing, what destination would you recommend? What can we expect from that place?
Oh… There are so many magical places on the planet… I still have many to discover. Without a doubt, my favorite is the northeastern part of Brazil. Ceará has beautiful, endless beaches; you can kite in the lagoons or do long-distance downwinds. I would also recommend Cape Town if you’re looking for very strong winds and big waves. The city is large and beautiful, and there are thousands of different spots. Also, Dakhla if you want to make a quick getaway—there’s always wind, and it’s close to home!
What advice would you give to all those girls who are fascinated by kitesurfing but fear has not allowed them to try it yet?
There should be no fear! It’s clear that it’s a risky sport, and you need to know the limits and the danger involved. That’s why you shouldn’t hesitate to go to a kite school to learn and receive the best technical lessons.
Thank you for your time; we hope this is your year, and we can see you on the podium many times.
Thank you very much! I will give my best! Link to video channel https://www.youtube.com/@RitaArnaus