The Formula Windsurfing Foil World Championships held in Torbole, Italy from June 16th to 21st, 2023, will go down in history as a remarkable event for all those involved. With a perfect blend of sunny weather and strong winds, the championship offered ideal conditions for the world’s best windsurfers to showcase their skills. Moreover, this edition of the championships witnessed a significant achievement as all 25 scheduled races were successfully completed, adding to the excitement and suspense of the competition.
In the Men’s division, Elia Colombo of Switzerland emerged as the undisputed champion. Dominating the event with an impressive display of skill and strategy, Colombo won an astonishing 18 out of the 25 races. His exceptional performance left no doubt about his superiority on the water. Jacopo Renna of Italy, a local sailor representing the organizing club, Circolo Surf Torbole, secured a commendable second-place finish. Rounding out the top three was Tomasz Romanowski of Poland, who exhibited tremendous determination and expertise throughout the championship.
On the Women’s side, it was a tale of two sisters from Norway. Helle Oppedal claimed the top spot, showcasing her remarkable talent and commitment to the sport. Not far behind, her sister, Tura Oppedal, delivered a strong performance to secure the second position. The podium was completed by Aleksandra Wasiewicz of Poland, who displayed great skill and consistency throughout the competition. The presence of the Oppedal sisters adds a fascinating dynamic to the windsurfing world, highlighting the sport’s ability to unite and inspire families.
Francesco Zarbo, President of the Formula Windsurfing Class could not attend the ceremony, but was watching online. Francesco expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the championships a resounding success. He congratulated all the participants and commended the Circolo Surf Torbole for their outstanding organization and hospitality. Zarbo was particularly moved by Elia Colombo’s achievement, noting that he had witnessed Colombo’s windsurfing journey since his early days. The Colombo family had Filippo in the Olympic games in MTB in the last edition, and now can have to Colombo brothers in the next Olympic Games. The President expressed his pride and honor that one of those brothers is the Formula Windsurfing World Champion.
Looking ahead, the Formula Windsurfing community anticipates the upcoming European Championships, set to take place from August 24th to 28th, 2023, in Heiligenhafen, Germany. This event promises another exciting chapter in the sport’s history, featuring fierce competition among the best windsurfers from across Europe. Athletes and enthusiasts alike are encouraged to mark their calendars and join the action in Heiligenhafen.
The Formula Windsurfing Foil World Championships in Torbole, Italy captivated the audience with its perfect blend of wind, sunshine, and thrilling races. Elia Colombo’s exceptional performance and Helle Oppedal’s impressive victory highlighted the talent and determination of the world’s best windsurfers. As the windsurfing community looks towards the upcoming European Championships in Heiligenhafen, Germany.
