It is great to see how the excitement for Flatwater Pumpfoiling is growing around the planet. In Poland the sport is already arganized and the Polish Pumpfoil Association has held a legit contest in multiple disciplines. This is the PR we just received.
On July 27, 2024, the picturesque beach in Łeba became the arena for the exciting Fly Resort Duotone Pumpfoil Challenge 2024. The event, being the first stop of this year’s edition, attracted the attention of enthusiasts of the dynamically developing water sport—pumpfoil.
The competition was organized by the Polish Pumpfoil Association, with support from main sponsors: flyresort.pl and Duotone Polska. Radio Kaszëbë provided media patronage, contributing to the promotion of this innovative sport. The competition gathered 14 ambitious participants in advanced categories and six debutants in the Newbie category. The rivalry took place in five categories: Slalom, Sprint, Race, Freestyle, and Newbie.
Slalom Category (timed): Competitors had to demonstrate not only speed but also agility and quick decision-making skills. The course required navigation between buoys, where maintaining fluid movement while maintaining high speed was crucial. Precision was as important as speed, as every mistake could cost precious seconds. Result: In the Slalom category, Piotr Szymiec (GONG) triumphed, ahead of Bartek Kulczyński (F-ONE) and Olek Czapla (SABFOIL).
Sprint Category (speed): Competitors had to achieve the highest average speed in one minute. The competition required a perfect balance between maximum acceleration and maintaining stability. Speed was measured using a GPS watch. Result: Sprint brought victory to Olek Czapla with an impressive average speed of 21.5 km/h. Piotr Szymiec (20.8 km/h) and Bartek Kulczyński (19.0 km/h) took the next places on the podium.
By loading the post you accept the privacy policy of Facebook.
Learn more
Race Category (timed): This was a classic time trial on a specified course around buoys. The competition combined elements of sprint and tactics, requiring participants not only to maintain high speed but also to maneuver skillfully, especially around the buoys. Wind strength of about 8-10 knots posed an additional challenge for competitors, especially making it difficult to sail upwind. Result: The Race category was also won by Piotr Szymiec, with Olek Czapla in second and Bartek Kulczyński in third place.
Freestyle Category (style): Competitors had 3 minutes to showcase their most impressive technical skills on the pumpfoil. Difficulty, execution style, and overall artistic impression were evaluated. Not only technical perfection counted, but also innovation and fluidity of transitions between elements. Result: In the spectacular Freestyle category, Piotr Szymiec triumphed again, ahead of Olek Czapla and Jakub Balewicz (DUOTONE).
Newbie Category (beginner): A category for beginners who tried to stay in levitation as long as possible. It was an ideal introduction to the world of pumpfoil, requiring focus, balance, and basic equipment control skills. Perseverance and determination counted. What particularly increased the attractiveness of this category was that the most valuable prize of the competition—a professional handmade pumpfoil board—was awarded in this category, emphasizing the importance of supporting new adepts of this sport and encouraging further skill development. Result: The Newbie category, dedicated to beginners, ended with Jan Lipiński’s victory, with Filip Antonowski in second and Szymon Walczak in third place.
Overall Classification: After a series of intense competitions, the PUMPFOIL CHALLENGE 2024 in Łeba revealed its winners. The podium showcased the full range of exceptional skills and versatility of the competitors. The champion was Piotr Szymiec (GONG), whose dominance in most competitions ensured him a well-deserved victory. Second place was taken by Olek Czapla (SABFOIL), impressing especially in the Sprint competition. Bartek Kulczyński (F-ONE) completed the podium, demonstrating remarkable versatility and consistency. This trio not only presented the highest level of skills but also embodied the spirit of sports rivalry and passion for pumpfoil, inspiring many observers to take an interest in this exciting discipline.
“The Fly Resort Duotone Pumpfoil Challenge 2024 in Łeba is just the beginning of the excitement associated with this fascinating sport,” says the Polish Pumpfoil Association. “The next stops will take place in August in Kuźnica on the Bay of Puck and in Rewa, where the final of this year’s series will be held.”
The goal is to promote pumpfoil as a new, exciting water sport. It aims to promote physical activity among people of all ages, from youth to seniors, and above all, to ensure that participants have a good time. “We want pumpfoil enthusiasts to meet, exchange experiences, and enjoy this sport together in a spirit of friendly competition,” the organizers emphasize.
Photos and videos from the event will be available in the coming days.