The Takla Sterkies Classic 2022 -
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On Monday the 8th of August, I came across a message (by total chance) from Josh Emanuel on a wind report group about an event in Sterkfontein Dam. The Takla Sterkies Classic.
The event was to take place on Saturday the 13th and was aimed at amateurs.
I just messaged Josh and wished him luck with event.
Josh’s reply; “Are you in SA and available?…”
Josh
I have known Josh since his early days when as a kid, he crashed onto the kiteboarding scene.
Unfortunately he also crashed rather badly at one of my Cannon Rocks Classic events and had his first major injury. However that didn’t stop him from reaching amazing heights in the kiteboarding competition world with many incredible performances under his belt.
Race director
After a quick phone call, Josh informed me that they could really do with some help.
I was mostly free that week end, and I know what superhuman strength is required to put on an event. So I decided to jump in and help as best I could.
It was decided I would take over the duties of race director and help out wherever I could.
The trip
On Wednesday night, it was all systems go.
With top wing foiler Dylan Wichmann catching a lift with me, we proceeded to drive up to Sterkfontein dam on Friday Morning.
It should have taken 9 / 10 hours. The pot holes made sure it took 13 hours.
I know know not to take the R 26! It was a war zone full of craters.
We got there at dark, and met up with josh and his business partner Lorenzo Valenti. The welcoming vibe at the Amphitheater backpacker lodge was a sign of things to come.
The vibe
On Saturday morning, participants arrived from Kwazulu Natal, Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. They were met with a growing westerly wind that had filled in nicely by 10 am.
We started with a foil race and then moved on to the Twintips.
There was great wind and such a great vibe from everyone.
From the staff to the competitors, the sponsors. Everyone helped where they could. The moms, the dads, the groms. Lots of smiles and lots of laughter.
The way such an event should be.
I even had the luxury of kiting the spot myself for 30 minutes (something I have never been able to do as a Race Director). I can confirm, the spot rocks!
Well done Lorenzo and Josh for pulling of such a great first event.
Wishing you all the best for the future events!
Keep an eye out on their website and social media accounts for more pics:
https://fruitloops.co.za/
https://www.instagram.com/takla_sterkies_classic/
https://www.facebook.com/SterkiesClassic/