With classic Squamish blue skies and strong wind the 2015 Kite Clash open was set for a great day of competition. The event, held at the famous Squamish Spit, saw a compeditive field from all over the world. Riders were pitted against each other in the typical eight minute heats, with their best five tricks counting towards their overall score. Early round favorites in the mens were Lewis Crathern, Craig Cunningham, Jason Blanchard, Brandon Scheid, and the spit master himself Denham Trollip. The girls were next to hit the water and Sensi Graves, Colleen Carroll, and Rachel Calahan had no problems making it into the final.
The wind continued to pump as the Masters and men’s semi finals took place. Riders continued to give their all as they were slowly whittled down to the top four men and women. The riders had the coveted “honey hole” to themselves as they battled it out for the top honors, however in the end only one can be crowned champion. With consistent power and technicality, Brandon was able to take home the golden medal.
In a super final the girls showcased the highest level of competitive riding. The spectators cheered as the girls threw down blind judge 3s, backmobes, kiteloops, and plenty of other top level tricks. When all the dust settled it was Colleen Carroll taking home gold with Sensi Graves nipping at her heels.
You couldn’t ask for a better spectator arena to watch kiteboarding, than the spit. Flatwater, steady wind, and stadium seating all set in the shadow of the majestic Cheif. All in a days work for the Liquid Force Team.
