DUOTONE DOMINATES: DOUBLE VICTORY IN MEN’S AND WOMEN’S DIVISIONS
What an epic finish to the GKA Kite-Surf World Tour at an exciting new location on the 2024 schedule: Ibiraquera, Santa Catarina, in the south of Brazil. The top 24 men and 14 women from 10 countries battled it out, not only for the event win but also for the 2024 world crown.
Team Duotone dominated both divisions, securing the top spot on the podium in both men’s and women’s after eight days of challenging conditions, thrilling heats, intense rivalries, and incredible displays of skill and determination.
With several lay days due to insufficient wind, the women’s division unfolded on Days 4 and 6 of the 8-day event window. Riding her Neo D/LAB in the patchy, light wind, Yasmina Bujanow (AUS) made an impressive mark in her World Cup debut. After narrowly advancing past Camille Losserand (SUI) in the quarter-finals, she went on to beat ranking leader Capucine Delannoy (FRA) in the semi-finals. Advancing to the final, Yasmina Bujanow clinched her first World Cup victory with the highest wave scores — an 8.00 and an 8.10 — of the women’s contest. Congratulations to Yasmina on her inspiring win.
JAMES CAREW
"I set out this year to do the impossible, this time last year I could not kite or even slightly jog. Right now I’m 2nd in the world. Although it’s not what I came to expect, the impossible had been achieved."
After continued challenges with small swells and light winds, Day 8 finally brought 20-25 knots and a change in location further up the beach for right-hand waves.
Matchu Lopes (ESP) made an inspiring return, showcasing relentless energy and jaw-dropping moves on his Neo SLS. His vertical hacks and progressive 360s and reverses were untouchable, winning over the judges and proving too much for his rivals. With two massive 7-point waves in the final, he left new World Champion Gabriel Benetton (BRA) in his wake, as the crowd’s stoke matched our excitement here at Duotone with Matchu’s return to the top of the podium.
"It's been an incredible journey with lots of ups and downs, but standing on top of this podium makes it all worthwhile. I'm grateful for the support I've received from so many people and Duotone and proud to have finished the season on a high note."
MATCHU LOPES
Big massive shoutout to James Carew (AUS) for claiming the Vice World Champion title after an inspiring comeback from injury — James’ tenacity and strength have been a season highlight. And a special congratulations to Camille Losserand (SUI) for her incredible third-place finish in the women’s overall world rankings!
What an unforgettable season finale! Thank you to all our athletes for an amazing event! Check out our blog for the full recap of this historic double victory.