Swiss Pumpfoil Championship
The Swiss Pumpfoil Championships, organised by the Swiss Foiling Federation, aimed to crown the first Swiss pumpfoil champion. Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Lake Bielersee, swiss pumpfoil enthusiasts gathered to compete to be crowned Switzerland’s first pump foil champion. The championship held two race categories – the team relay racing and individual timed course racing.
The competition
The course
Competitors had to leave the dock on their hydrofoils, then pump around the first buoy, duck under a limbo bar, and round another buoy. Only then could they head back to the dock, completing the course. The same course was set for both team and individual racing.
Midway through the race, competitors faced the unpredictable challenge of the limbo bar. It was not just a simple obstacle; this feature required agility and coordination. Each team had to skillfully duck underneath, maintaining both balance and momentum. This added to the excitement and unpredictability of the race.
Team Racing
Six teams, each consisting of three members, dove headfirst into the challenging team relay event. The course layout wasn’t just a test of speed and it rewarded strategy and teamwork.
Points in this segment were strategically awarded. Every cleared obstacle awarded a point. Successfully navigating the buoys, manoeuvring under the limbo bar, and making a return to the dock were each crowned with a point. Each team had 4 minutes to get as many points as possible within the time limit, only one competitor could attempt the course at a time, and the next rider could try once the previous team mate returned to the dock.
Team ENSIS, a dynamic trio featuring Laura, Michi, and Dani, carved their mark with a performance that spoke volumes of their synergy and team spirit! They placed second, congratulations!
Individual racing
The same course as the team event was used, but this time competitors were timed to determine how quickly they could complete it. The focus was on maintaining both speed and stability. The competitor who achieved the fastest time would be crowned the SWISS FOILING CHAMP.
Conclusion
As the sun set on Lake Bielersee, the Swiss Pumpfoil Championships left behind memories of camaraderie, passion, and an undying love for the sport. Organised by the Swiss Foiling Federation, the event highlighted the deep bond within the foiling community.
It’s not just about speed or skill; it’s about the laughter shared, the challenges faced together, and the collective dream of elevating the sport. Witnessing young and old come together, with shared excitement, was truly a testament to the spirit of the sport. Here’s to many more such gatherings and heartfelt moments in the years to come.
Interested in pumpfoiling or wingfoiling?
The ENSIS team were using the ENSIS HIP HOP PRO and ENSIS STRIDE, the perfect combo for anyone interested in pump foiling and dock starts.
The ENSIS team is highly skilled in all things foils and is eager to assist you in starting your foiling journey. Our worldwide retailers offer a variety of ENSIS products, making it convenient for you to bring wing foiling to your location. Contact us now to learn more about our products or locate an ENSIS retailer nearby.