Editor’s note: To avoid confusion, this is NOT a ranked list of the top 5 kiteboarding destinations in the world, but rather a list of top destinations we think you should experience. There are of course many other great spots; however it is virtually impossible to create a ranked list of the top 5 kite spots, because everyone will have varying opinions on what makes a spot great. It is also virtually impossible for one rider to have kited at every single kite spot around the world. If you know of a spot that should be on this list, tell us about it in the comments below, and we’ll include it in our reader’s choice post in the near future.

1. Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

While North Carolina is neither the most exotic nor warmest place in the world year-round, it’s hard to beat this location in the summer months, especially if you live in the United States. And for those who live on the East Coast, Cape Hatteras is just an easy drive or quick flight away to find yourself on its beautiful beaches dotted with blowing coastal grasses! Kitesurfers love it for its generous open space and perfectly consistent summer winds, as well as the fact that they have access to both the shallower sound side and wide open ocean side with plenty of rolling waves. Plus all travelers alike can appreciate the area’s quaint charm, fresh seafood and serene surroundings.

2. La Ventana, Baja California

On the other side of the country and across the border to Mexico you’ll find La Ventana in Baja California. Kiteboarders flock to this breathtaking coastal town for its beauty as well as its pristine kiteboarding conditions, thanks to its steady winter winds and large L-shaped beach. The conditions are perfect for both beginners as well as more advanced kitesurfers looking to practice their skills. Known to locals as the Sea of Cortez, UNESCO declared the sparkling waters a World Heritage Site for its abundance of sea life and natural beauty. Warm, sunny days will lend the perfect backdrop for kitesurfing here, plus you can look forward to awesome Cali-Mex cuisine when you need a break from the water.

3. Maui, Hawaii

There’s no doubt about it–Maui, Hawaii is truly a tropical paradise, but it’s also one of the most incredible kitesurfing spots in the world. Maui has steady trade winds year-round, but you’ll find that the strongest winds are in the spring and summer; and for those who are seeking out monstrous waves, winter is definitely the time to go. Maui offers a lot of space to kitesurf, as surfers, snorkelers and those simply looking to spend the day lounging often flock to different beaches that are better-suited to their needs. The island is warm throughout the year and it’s perfect for both beginners and those with a more advanced skill-set. Plus when you’re not concentrating on the surf, you can enjoy the lush greenery, tropical flowers, incredible sunsets and laidback Maui vibe.

As testament to the quality of kitesurfing on Maui, particularly for wave riding, MAUI was chosen as one of the stops on the KSP World Pro tour two years in a row. Here’s what went down at the Kite Surf Pro Hawaii, along with great images and videos.

4. Boracay, Philippines

Located in Southeast Asia, Boracay is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, and it has become one of the most popular travel destinations amongst tourists. And as an added bonus, it offers some of the best kitesurfing in Southeast Asia! On one side there are a ton of beach-front luxury accommodations perfect for lounging, while the other windier side is ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The windy season is during the dry, winter months, making Boracay perfect for kitesurfers who are looking to escape the bitter chill of winter. In addition to the kitesurfing, Boracay boasts tropical scenery, friendly natives and great nightlife making it the perfect spot for both families and kiteboarders alike.

5. Nabq, Egypt

Situated on the southeastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula in between Dahab and Sharm-el-Sheikh, Nabq, Egypt is by far one of the most exotic kitesurfing locations in the world. The Gulf of Aqaba provides the area with smooth and steady winds while the desert-like beach town provides a beautiful backdrop. The Red Sea is crystal clear and relatively smooth depending where you go, while the weather is great year-round. You won’t have to travel far to find glamorous chic resorts or basic backpacker accommodations, allowing you to lodge wherever you (and your budget) are most comfortable.

Like traveling, kitesurfing is all about adventure, and in addition to these spots, there are so many more to see. Start planning your travels and see where the wind takes you!

Editor’s note: We think Cape Town, South Africa should also be mentioned as one of the top kitesurfing destinations everyone should experience, although we might be a bit biased…

What’s your favorite kitesurfing spot and why do you love it? Let us know in the comments below…

Update: We’ve had a lot of suggestions for top kiteboarding destinations from our readers via our social channels, so we’re planning on doing a follow up article that includes all the suggestions from you guys. So please post a comment below of your favourite spot and what you like about it, and we’ll include it our future post.

Image 1 (Maui, Hawaii) by Richard Hallman courtesy of the KSP World Pro Tour
Image 2 (La Ventana, Baja California) by Raúl Amador Geraldo
Image 3 (Maui, Hawaii) courtesy of the KSP World Pro Tour
Image 5 (Nabq, Egypt) courtesy of High Tech Kite Travel

About the author: Susan is a blogger for InStyleSwimwear.com, an online swimwear retailer based out of Philadelphia. To read more of Susan’s articles or to catch up on the latest news, styles and trends in the swimwear industry, check out their swimwear blog today.

5 Top Kitesurfing Destinations You Must Experience was published by inMotion Kitesurfing.

The competition was put on hold for the first two days due to light northerly winds, but got under way on day three as the easterly trade winds set in.

We will be updating this article with the latest competition results and news from Ho’okipa Beach on a daily basis. As always, we won’t be sending out daily emails regarding the event, so remember to refer back to this page each day, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Google+ to keep up to date with this world championship kitesurfing event.

Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Daily Updates

Jump to: Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Finals & Results

Day 3 (24 November)

The qualification rounds and round 1 of the men’s main event were run in head high surf and around 15-18 knots of wind.

“With the trades back, Ho’okipa delivered today. The riders were stoked with the wind and wave conditions” said KSP live stream commentator Ben Meyer, “we were able to complete the qualification round as well as the entire men’s first round of the main event with the conditions looking favorable to complete the men’s and women’s championship in the next few days.”

Advancing from the morning’s qualification rounds were Jesse Richman (HI), Jeremy Lentz (FRA, F-One), Rafal Maleszyk (POL), Kai Lenny (HI), Tiago Candelot (BRA) and Devin Moody (HI, North).

The highest two-wave heat score of the men’s main event belonged to defending World Champion Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS, Cabrinha) with a 14.83. Local Maui newcomer Cruser Putnam (HI, Cabrinha) surprised with the second highest heat score of the day (14.37) with a blazing back-hand attack at his local spot. 2011 KSP World Champion Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North) battled with fellow countryman Matchu Almeida (CPV, North) to advance on to round 2. Other standouts included Mitu Monteiro (CBV, F-One), Filippe Ferreira (BRA, F-One), Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA) and local boy Patri McLaughlin (HI, North). Kai Lenny (HI), fresh off his recent SUP World Championship victory in France, displayed powerful and fluid surfing, establishing himself as a serious contender for the Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Maui.

The women’s heat 1 of round 1 was started late in the afternoon, but called off due to deteriorating wind conditions.

Video: Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Day 3

If you are reading this in an email or RSS feed, click here to watch the video.

Jump to: Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Finals & Results

Day 4 (25 November)

The fourth day of the Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro started with strong winds and medium size surf for the beginning of the women’s main event. The first heat of round 1 for the women – which had been canceled yesterday afternoon – started an action packed day for all of the riders.

“The waves were really fun today – the conditions lined up for a great day of competition” said highest heat score of the day rider Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA) „I’m really looking forward to the quarter finals tomorrow and riding Ho’okipa in what looks to be epic conditions.”

Also joining Ribeiro in the quarter finals are Mitu Monteiro (CPV/F-One), Airton Cozzolino (ITA/North), Keahi Aboitiz (AUS/Cabrinha), Paulino Perreira (POR/Cabrinha), Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA), Pedro Henrique (BRA), Kai Lenny (HI) and Cruser Putnam (HI, Cabrinha) continuing his amazing run in the event as the Cabrinha wild card.

On the women side, the quarterfinal ladder includes defending event champion Moona Whyte (HI/Cabrinha) as well as defending world champion Jalou Langeree (NED) along side Skylar Lickle (HI), Ines Correia (POR/RRD), Kristin Boese (GER), Milla Ferreira (BRA/F-One), Kalia Agueira (HI), Suzanne Kuiper (NED/F-One).

Continuing from the previous years’ performance, Moona Whyte and Jalou Langeree showed outstanding rides battling for the next round.

Video: Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Day 4

Jump to: Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Finals & Results

Day 5 (26 November)

The fifth and final day of the Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Maui kicked off with blasting trade winds and overhead surf. Men’s and Women’s champions were crowned today on Maui’s north shore following an intense day of competition.

The women’s quarterfinalists were up first in a building northwest swell and solid trade winds. Advancing into the semi-finals were Moona Whyte (HI/Cabrinha), Ines Correia (POR/RRD), Jalou Langeree (NED) and Milla Ferreira (BRA/F-One). Whyte and Langeree went on to dominate their semi-final heats to set up an epic re-match of last year’s world tour finals.

Surviving the quarterfinal rounds on the men’s side were Airton Cozzolino (ITA/North), Keahi DeAboitiz (AUS/Cabrinha), Kai Lenny (HI) and Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA). Cozzolino and DeAboitiz battled in the first semifinal with DeAboitiz keeping his world championship dreams alive by narrowly defeating the young Italian. In the second semifinal, Maui local Kai Lenny beat an on-fire Ribeiro with his consistent and committed riding.

Between the semi finals and finals of the world championships a heat of legendary proportions was run. Pete Cabrinha (USA/Cabrinha), Robby Naish (USA), Flash Austin (USA), Elliot Leboe (USA/Cabrinha), Alex Aguera (HI/Ozone) and Brett Lickle (USA/Cabrinha) hit the water in a showcase featuring the founding pioneers of the sport on Maui. A huge crowd lined the shore to witness the 20-minute super-heat featuring the heroes of the sport.

“It was fun to get out there in a heat with a select few guys who have been instrumental in the development and progression of the sport of kiteboarding on Maui”, said Pete Cabrinha. “We all had a blast out there.”

The Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro finals were held in epic Ho’okipa conditions. On the men’s side, reigning KSP World Champion Keahi DeAboitiz (AUS/Cabrinha) met local Maui hero Kai Lenny (HI) to determine who would be the 2013 KSP World Champion. By the time the final horn sounded, no one on the beach knew who had won the heat. It wasn’t until the prize giving ceremony that De Aboitiz learned that he had successfully defended his world title narrowly defeating the young Hawaiian.

“I was really stoked to take the win for the second year in a row,” said DeAboitiz. “I couldn’t be happier, really. We had some really fun waves and I had a great time out there.”

The women’s final was contested in equally epic surf and the highly anticipated rematch between Whyte and Langeree was a battle for the ages. Both riders were powerful and fluid but in the end, Whyte defeated Langeree to defend her title here at Ho’okipa and claim the 2013 World Championship title.

“It was really close in the final against Jalou and it could have gone either way, but I’m stoked it went my way,” said new KSP World Champion Whyte.

Video: Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Day 5

Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Men’s Final Results

1st Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS, Cabrinha)
2nd Kai Lenny (HI)
3rd Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA)
4th Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North)
5th Mitu Monteiro (CPV, F-One)
5th Cruser Putnam (HI, Cabrinha)
5th Paulino Pereira (PRT, Cabrinha)
5th Pedro Henrique (BRA)
9th Matchu Lopes (CPV, North)
9th Jeremy Lentz (FRA, F-One)
9th Enrico Giordano
9th Sky Solbach (HI, North)
9th Filippe Ferreira (BRA, F-One)
9th Djo Silva (CPV, F-One)
9th Patri McLaughlin (HI, North)
9th Etienne Lhote (FRAU, F-One)
17th Sergey Mysovskiy (RUS)
17th Jesse Richman (HI)
17th Johnny Berger (USA, Cabrinha)
17th Devin Moody (HI, North)
17th Rafal Malezyk (POL)
17th Tiago Candelot (BRA)
17th Matthew Elsassar (USA, Cabrinha)
17th Ralph Boelen (FRA, North)

Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Women’s Final Results

1st Moona Whyte (HI, Cabrinha)
2nd Jalou Langeree (NED, Naish)
3rd Milla Ferreira (BRA, F-One)
4th Ines Correia (POR)
5th Kristin Boese (GER)
5th Skylar Lickle (HI)
5th Suzanne Kuiper (NED, F-One)
5th Kalia Aguera (HI)
9th Erika Lindberg (SWE)
9th Rawuel Lima (BRA)
9th Isa Cohen (USA)
9th Carol Bolstad (USA)

Following the KSP world championship finals the focus shifted to the Xensr Big Air Invitational. The 12 invited male and 3 female riders were sent out on the water with a gps based Xensr measuring device that measures the height of each riders jumps to within 3mm. The Xensr Big Air Invitational final was won by Jon McCabe (Hi/Ozone) with Jesse Richman (HI) in second and Charles Edwards (HI/North) in third. The highest jump of the day, however, belonged to Shawn Richman (HI) with a height of 45.42 feet.

The women’s Big Air was won by Jalou Langeree (NED) over second place finisher Raquel Lima (HI) with Skylar Lickle (HI) in third.

Wrapping up the final day’s action were the men’s and women’s finals of the Kama’aina Throwdown. Rafal Malezyk took top spot in the Kama’aina men’s division over second place Garfield King with Wes Anderson in third. In the women’s division it was youngster Skylar Lickle taking the win with Michelle Crompton in second and Tatiana Howard in third place.

Cabrinha Kitesurf Pro Maui 2013 Wrap Up Video

The Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro is supported by the County Of Maui, ION, Xensr, HEVN, Maui Solar Project, Hotel Wailea, Bluesmiths Clothing, Tramontana Grafixx, FinallyPainFree.com, Adventure Sports Maui, Courtyard Marriott, Second Wind Maui, Maui Beach Hotel, Strini Art Glass, Wholefoods Maui, MKC, Bob’s Dogs of Maui, Boardriding Maui, Mana Foods and Kitefinder.

If you’re lucky enough to be on Maui at the Cabrinha Kitesurf Pro, or if you’ve been following the action via the live broadcast, we’d love to hear your thoughts on the event in the comments below…

Images by Richard Hallman courtesy of the KSP World Pro Tour.

PS: If you enjoyed this article, help spread the word by clicking the share buttons below.

KSP Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Hawaii 2013 Results was published by inMotion Kitesurfing.

Note: Lay days were called for the first five days of the ten day holding period, so feel free to skip straight to Day 6, which is where the kitesurf action started. Be sure to watch the interviews with Pete Cabrinha (Day 2) and Robby Naish (Day 5) though…

If you are looking for the 2013 Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Results & Updates, click here.

We will be updating this article with the latest competition results and news from Ho’okipa Beach on a daily basis. As always, we won’t be sending out daily emails regarding the event, so remember to refer back to this page each day, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Google+ to keep up to date with this action packed kitesurfing event.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Watch the Live Broadcast

The KSP world championship title race, which sees 36 riders from 18 countries competing for this prestigious award, remains too close to call heading into the final event at Ho’okipa Beach, Maui. Hometown favourite and current men’s points leader Patri Mclaughlin (HI, North) aims to snatch his first ever world title at home on Maui with Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North) and Sebeastian Ribeiro (BRA) not far behind. The female race between front-runner Jalou Langeree (NED, Naish), Ninja Bichler (GER, North) and Ines Correia (POR, RRD) is also pretty tight.

Day 1 (29 November)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 1

Following the opening ceremony at Ho’okipa Beach Park on Maui’s North Shore, an official lay day was called due to light and variable winds.

Hawaii’s Kumu Keli’i Tau’a led a traditional Hawaiian blessing to open the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro followed with a speech by Rod Antone, Communications Director for the County Of Maui, who welcomed the KSP riders. Lois Leinani Whitly wrapped up the beautiful beach ceremony by performing the National Anthem and Hawaiian Pono’i.

“It’s was a beautiful opening ceremony with perfect waves breaking out on the reef at Ho’okipa,” said Kristin Boese, KSP World Championship Tour President. “Unfortunately, we are just in a bad wind pattern at the moment. The wind forecast right now is not looking great for the next few days, but that can change quickly. We are still early in the holding period and are looking forward to what the following week will bring.”

Video: Day 1 Opening Ceremony Highlights

Check out the Photos from Day 1.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 2 (30 November)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 2

Advisory level swells greeted competitors at Ho’okipa Beach Park this morning, but contest directors called another lay day at the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro due to continued light and variable winds.

“Anything can happen”, said KSP Head Judge Brad Price during this morning’s live broadcast. “Starting Tuesday there’s an outside chance we’ll have wind. But, Thursday for sure, Friday for sure. So we’ll have to see how it goes.”

Video: Interview with Pete Cabrinha

If you are reading this in an email or RSS feed, click here to watch the video.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 3 (1 December)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 3

Contest officials declared another lay day at the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro today. The wind forecast looks like it will improve early next week.

“It’s another beautiful day on Maui”, said KSP competitor and live stream commentator Sky Solbach. “The forecast is looking great for waves throughout the rest of the holding period and it looks like the trade winds will return to the islands next week.”

Tune in at 9am to watch the live call and morning show at 9am.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 4 (2 December)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 4

Kona wind flow has forced the fourth consecutive lay day at the KSP World Championship tour final on Maui. International competitors from 18 countries remain on standby for the first possible start of the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro as soon as wind conditions permit.

“The wave is really good here in Ho’okipa,” said reigning KSP World Champion Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North) following his interview in this morning’s live broadcast. “The forecast looks better for the end of the week and I really hope we make the finals in the best conditions.”

Tune in at 9am each morning to watch the live call and morning show.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 5 (3 December)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 5

Unfortunately, the unpredictable Kona Winds prevented the Ho’okipa Kitesurf Pro from getting underway again this morning. A solid swell forecast and the improving wind direction promise contestable conditions as soon as tomorrow and holding strong for the remainder of the competition window.

KSP contest director Ian Ponting states: “It’s unusual for Maui to be windless for long periods of time. The forecast continues to look really promising for the end of the holding period. In the meantime Maui continues to offer amazing surf and hopefully the competitors are still functional in both body and equipment when the real action starts.”

Video: Interview with Robby Naish

With an outside chance of the trade winds kicking in tomorrow, contest officials will reconvene tomorrow morning to assess the conditions for a possible start.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 6 (4 December)

World Tour Finals Get Underway in Pumping Surf

Finally the light and variable winds gave way to the returning trades earlier than expected for the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro. Local wildcard qualification heats were run in near flawless conditions, setting the stage for an action packed world tour final and the commencement of men’s round 1.

“Anytime there’s an easterly component in the wind, you have to expect that Maui will deliver”, said KSP live stream commentator Ben Meyer. “It was great to finally see the guys and girls out there ripping at the point. The forecast looks very promising to finish the event in stellar conditions.”

Advancing from the men’s local wildcard qualification rounds were Tiago Candelot 1st, Olivier Sautet 2nd, and Kevin “Top Hat” Senn 3rd. On the women’s side, Oahu native Moona Whyte turned heads with an outstanding performance in her wildcard qualification heat and will join 2nd place local wildcard qualifier Kalia Aguera in the main women’s draw.

Following the action-packed qualification rounds, the men’s round 1 got underway. Heat 1 saw world number 3 and world title contender Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA) advance over Tiago Candelot (LWC) and Bastien Bollard (FRA, Ozone) with precisely executed turns and flowing rides, earning him the highest heat score of the competition thus far, a 14.93 combined two-wave total.

The Men’s heat 2 between Mitu Monteiro (CPV, F-One), Sky Solbach (USA, North) and Shawn Richman (HI, Naish) was abandoned due to deteriorating winds. Following a brief holding pattern, the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro was called off for the day to wait for better conditions to resume competition tomorrow.

Video: Highlights Day 6

Check out the Photos of the Day.

Tune in for the 9am call, a 10am first possible start and the live broadcast.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 7 (5 December)

Epic Surf Continues on Day 7 at Ho’okipa

Following another windless morning on Maui’s North Shore, the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro World Championship final got underway in the early afternoon in gusty wind and clean, overhead surf. Today saw incredible action and the near-completion of men’s round 1.

“The wind conditions were not ideal with the wind being lighter than usual and slightly offshore”, said local rider and hometown favorite Cruser Putnam (HI, Cabrinha) following his second place finish in his round 1 heat. “But that was still definitely the best kitesurfing I’ve seen at Ho’okipa.”

Today’s highest heat score came from tour standout Mitu Monteiro (CPV, F-One) with a 16.17 two-wave total. Riding forehand on his natural stance, Monteiro dominated his round 1 heat with solid hacks and vertical top to bottom surfing. Other heat winners in round 1 included Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA), Guilly Brandao (BRA), Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North), Stephan De Figueiredo (BRA), Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS, Cabrinha), Filippe Ferreira (BRA, F-One).

The final heat of Men’s round 1 was abandoned due to deteriorating wind conditions late in the afternoon. All forecasts point to a significant increase in wind strength heading into the weekend and a slight decrease in swell height. When competition resumes, hometown favorite and current KSP World Tour points leader Patri Mclaughlin (HI, North) will face Kevin “Top Hat” Senn (HI) and Jakop Appel (DEN).

Check out the Photos of the Day.

Video: Highlights Day 7

Tune in for the 9am call, a 10am first possible start and the live broadcast.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 8 (6 December)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 8

The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro saw strong side-offshore winds and consistent head high surf today on day 8 of the 10-day holding period. Men’s and women’s round 1 were completed as well as 7 heats of men’s round 2.

In a 10AM rider’s meeting, contest directors officially announced the implementation of the KSP’s alternate “short dingle elimination” ladder. Used for the first time in a KSP competition today, the short dingle elimination was originally designed in conjunction with the riders to reduce competition time to ensure an event result when conditions do not permit the use of the standard double consolidation ladder.

The competition kicked off in the early afternoon with the last remaining heat of men’s round 1, pitting local Maui boy and current KSP World Championship Tour points leader Patri Mclaughlin (HI, North) against Kevin “Top Hat” Senn (HI) and Jakop Appel (DEN). With his world title hopes on the line, Mclaughlin prevailed in a nerve-racking, but relatively low scoring heat.

Women’s round 1 saw some hotly contested battles, but no major upsets in the world title race. Local wildcard Moona Whyte (HI, Cabrinha) continued to impress with the highest heat score total of the women’s competition so far, a 14.17. Other riders advancing from women’s round 1 included Ninja Bichler (GER, North), Kirsty Jones (GBR, North) and Jalou Langeree (NED, Naish).

In round 2 of the men, reigning KSP World Champion Airton Cozzolino later (ITA, North) nailed the highest heat score of the day with a 15.83 two-wave combined total. Male riders advancing out of round 2 included world number 3 Sebastain Ribeiro (BRA), (CPV, F-One) as well as Guilly Brandao (BRA), Stephan De Figueiredo (BRA), Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS, Cabrinha) and Filippe Ferreira (BRA, F-One). Competition was called off for the day falling short of just one heat of men’s round 2.

Check out the Photos of the Day.

Video: Highlights Day 8

Tune in for the 9am call, a 10am first possible start and the live broadcast.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 9 (7 December)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Update 9

The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro was put on hold this morning before eventually being called off at 3PM due to light and variable winds. Contest directors are optimistic that the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Champions and overall World Tour Champions will be crowned tomorrow in classic Ho’okipa conditions.

“We knew today was a bit of a toss-up in terms of wind,” said KSP head judge Brad Price. “Tomorrow looks much better and we will be crowning the champions by tomorrow afternoon.”

With a stellar forecast on the charts and the KSP World Championship title on the line, tomorrow promises to be an incredible day of world-class kite surfing. The first heat on deck tomorrow between world number 1 Patri Mclaughlin (HI, North) and world number 4 Luke McGillewie (RSA, RRD) will be the first of many do-or-die heats in the road to the finals at the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro.

Jump to: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10: Finals & Results

Day 10 (8 December)

2012 KSP World Champions Crowned on Maui’s North Shore

The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro winners and overall KSP World Champions were crowned on Maui’s north shore today! The final day of the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro delivered classic Ho’okipa conditions and saw major upsets in the world title race.

The competition got underway in building surf and returning trade winds. The first major upset of the day came early this morning in the final heat of men’s round 2 between points leader Patri McLaughlin (HI, North) and world number 4 Luke McGillewie (RSA, RRD). McGillewie crushed McLaughlin’s world title hopes with a narrow defeat in their early morning clash at Ho’okipa.

The upsets continued in the men’s elimination when world number 2 Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North), world number 3 Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA) and world number 4 Luke McGillewie (RSA, RRD) all failed to advance to the semi-finals, effectively opening up the title race to riders Guilly Brandao (BRA), Keahi De Aboititz (AUS, Cabrinha) and Mitu Monteiro (CPV, F-One), all tied for 5th place in the world ranking.

In the men’s semi-finals, Monteiro advanced in a high-scoring affair over Brandao and De Aboitiz defeated Ferreira, setting the stage for a riveting final showdown. With the Ho’okpa Kite Surf Pro event title and the world championship crown on the line, Monteiro and De Aboitiz had the crowd on the edge of their seats, exchanging the lead several times throughout the final in exceptional conditions. De Aboitiz emerged victorious, taking home his first ever KSP World Championship title in an emotional victory.

In the women’s bracket, round 2 saw fierce matchups in world-class conditions. Milla Ferreira (BRA, F-One), Moona Whyte (HI, Cabrinha), Kari Schibevaag (NOR, Ozone) and Jalou Langerees (NED, Naish) all advanced through to the semi-final round with stellar performances in the building northwest swell and increasing winds.

The womens’ semi-final saw Whyte post the highest two wave total of the entire event, a 17.67, against Brazillian powerhouse Ferreira. Ferreira’s defeat effectively secured the title for Langeree, putting her competitors out of points’ reach. Elated after winning her first ever KSP World Championship title, Langeree went on to advance in semi-final number 2 in a narrow victory over Schibevaag.

The women’s final hit the water in pulsing northwest swell and finely groomed over-head waves. Whyte, in her first ever KSP World Championship tour event, continued her charge to victory, posting big scores, displaying fluid style, and defeating points leader Langeree.

Finals Wrap-up Video

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Men’s Final Results

1. Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS, Cabrinha)
2. Mitu Monteiro (CPV, F-One)
3. Guilly Brandao (BRA, Best)
4. Filippe Ferreira (BRA, F-One)

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Women’s Final Results

1. Moona Whyte (HI, Cabrinha)
2. Jalou Langeree (NED, Naish)
3. Kari Schibevaag (NOR, Ozone)
4. Milla Ferreira (BRA, F-One)

2012 KSP Men’s World Championship Results

• World Champion – Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS, Cabrinha)
• Vice World Champion – Mitu Monteiro (CPV, F-One)
• 3rd Airton Cozzolino (CPV, North)

2012 KSP Women’s World Championship Results

• World Champion – Jalou Langeree (NED, Naish)
• Vice World Champion – Ines Correia (POR, RRD)
• 3rd Ninja Bichler (GER, North)

Check out the Photos of the Day and award ceremony.

Ho’okipa Pro Live Web Broadcast

The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro is supported by the County Of Maui, Best Kiteboarding, Cabrinha Kites, Naish Kites, North Kiteboarding, Maui Kitesurfing Community, Eternal Riders, Second Wind, NeilPryde Maui, Maui Beach Hotel, Mana Foods, Whole Foods Maui, Pacific Millworks, Mama’s Fish House and KSP Tour Outfitter ION.

If you’re lucky enough to be on Maui at the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro, or if you’ve been following the action via the live broadcast, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below… Let us know what you think of the event so far and who you think is going to dominate.

PS: If you enjoyed this article, help spread the word by clicking the share buttons below.

KSP Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Hawaii 2012 Results was published by inMotion Kitesurfing.

The KSP World Pro Tour Championship final is set to take place at Ho’okipa Beach Park on Maui in Hawaii from 29 November to 8 December 2012. The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro will see the world’s top 24 male and 12 female kitesurfers compete for the highly coveted world championship title at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.

Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Hawaii 2012: Full Results & Updates.

If you are looking for the 2013 Cabrinha Kite Surf Pro Results & Updates, click here.

“Ho’okipa is such an amazing venue for wind sports”, says Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro event coordinator Samantha Bittner. “We had such great success recently with the Maui Makani Classic windsurfing event and I am really looking forward to seeing what the best kitesurfers in the world can do out at the point.”

Heading into the final event of the season, current tour points leader and local Maui boy Patri Mclaughlin (HI, North) will look to secure his first world title in front of his home crowd following some hard-fought battles on tour this year in Portugal, Mauritius and Ireland. Reigning KSP World Champion and current world number 2 Airton Cozzolino (ITA, North) and world number 3 Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA) remain hot on McLaughlin’s heels in a very tight world title race.

Following her first place finish at last month’s KSP event in Ireland, current female KSP World Tour frontrunner Jalou Langeree (NED, Naish) is intent on carrying her winning momentum into the final event of the season. Langeree is followed closely by 2011 World Champion Ines Correia (POR, RRD) and Ninja Bichler (GER, North) in a hotly contested world title race that will come down to the wire at Ho’okipa.

Fantasy KSP Round 4

The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro 2012 and the KSP also announce round 4 of the 2012 Fantasy KSP powered by Fantastar.com. The round will remain open until midnight on November 28, 2012 (GMT), just hours before the start of the KSP World Championship Tour Final and teams can now be selected from the confirmed riders list below. The Local Wild Cards for the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro will be determined in the Local Wild Card Qualifier taking place just before the first round of the main event.

Fantasy KSP enables fans and kitesurfers from around the world to participate in the KSP World Tour by assembling their own dream team of tour riders prior to each world championship tour event and “betting” on them to win awesome prizes. Fantasy KSP is free, fun, and open for all to play.

Prizes for the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro Fantasy Game

• 1st place: 2 nights for 2 at the Hotel Wailea on Maui, HI.
• 2nd place: Naish Kites backpack
• 3rd place: Best Kiteboarding Laptop Sleeve
• 4th place: Cabrinha Hoodie
• 5th place: North T-Shirt
• 6th place: ION T-Shirt

Confirmed Riders for the Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro

Male Riders

• Abel Lago (ESP)
• Airton Cozzolino (ITA)
• Bastien Bollard (FRA)
• Etienne Lhote (FRA)
• Filippe Ferreira (BRA)
• Gonzalo Gomes (POR)
• Grant “Twig” Baker (RSA)
• Guilly Brandao (BRA)
• Jakob Appel (DEN)
• Jesse Richman (CHI)
• Keahi De Aboitiz (AUS)
• Luke McGillewie (RSA)
• Marciel (Matchu) Lopes Almeida (CPV)
• Mitu Monteiro (CPV)
• Patri McLaughlin (HI)
• Reo Stephens (HI)
• Ryan Coote (IRL)
• Sebastian Ribeiro (BRA)
• Shawn Richman (HI)
• Sky Solbach (USA)
• Stephan De Figueiredo (BRA)
• LWC 1
• LWC 2
• LWC 3

Female Riders

• Adriana Harlan (BRA)
• Erika Lindberg (SWE)
• Ines Correia (POR)
• Jalou Langeree (NED)
• Kari Schibevaag (NOR)
• Kirsty Jones (GBR)
• Kristin Boese (GER)
• Melissa Gil (CRC)
• Milla Ferreira (BRA)
• Ninja Bichler (GER)
• LWC 1
• LWC 2

Tune in to www.kspworldtour.com/live for the KSP World Championship Tour Finals at Ho’okipa Beach in Maui, HI from 29 Nov – 8 Dec.

The Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro is supported by the County Of Maui, Best Kiteboarding, Cabrinha Kites, Naish Kites, North Kiteboarding, Maui Kitesurfing Community, Eternal Riders, Second Wind, Maui Beach Hotel, Mana Foods, Whole Foods Maui, Pacific Millworks, Mama’s Fish House and KSP Tour Outfitter ION Essentials.

PS: If you enjoyed this article, help spread the word by clicking the share buttons below.

KSP Ho’okipa Kite Surf Pro & Fantasy KSP Round 4 Kick Off was published by inMotion Kitesurfing.