GKA Gran Canaria - Good luck, Ruben!

GKA Gran Canaria - Good luck, Ruben!

Western Australia's 16 -year-old Big Air prodigy, Ruben Swart, has looped his way into the prestigious GKA Kite World Cup Gran Canaria taking place on the 9-13 July 2024, currently ranking 13th in the world for 2024 and seeded 22nd for the event. Ruben repeatedly defended his Big Air champion title in Australia and is growing a wide repertoire of tricks for the international big air scene. 

Ruben Swart, the dynamic kiteboarding talent from Australia's Great Southern region, is set to compete at the second stop of the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) World Tour in Gran Canaria, Spain. Currently holding a shared 13th spot in the world rankings, Swart is determined to boost his position after an impressive performance in Barcares, France.

By advancing to the quarter-finals in Barcares, has placed him on the radar of kiteboarding enthusiasts and professionals alike, setting high expectations for his upcoming performance in Spain.

“I’ve been training hard, and the conditions in Gran Canaria are perfect for pushing the limits,” Swart said before his departure. “The competition in Barcares was tough, but it gave me the confidence and motivation to aim higher. My goal is to make it to the semi-finals, if not further.”

The Gran Canaria event, renowned for its challenging wind and wave conditions, will test the skills and resilience of the world's top kiteboarders.

Hailing from the picturesque and wind-swept Great Southern coast, Swart has had the advantage of honing his skills in some of Australia's most demanding kiteboarding environments. His local supporters are eagerly following his journey, proud of his accomplishments and hopeful for his continued success on the world stage.

The GKA World Tour stop in Gran Canaria is set to be a thrilling showcase of talent and competition. As Swart takes to the skies with his kite, he carries with him the hopes of his hometown (Denmark WA) and the drive to ascend the global rankings. Fans can follow his progress through the GKA’s live updates and social media channels.

For Ruben Swart, the journey is as exhilarating as the destination. With the wind at his back and his eyes on the prize, this Australian kiteboarder is poised to make waves on the international scene.

We wish Ruben good winds and good luck for his heats and cannot wait to watch him send it with the pros!

Photo Gregory Gerhardt

GKA World Tour ranking: https://www.gkakiteworldtour.com/rankings-2024/?discipline=big_air

Follow the event here: https://www.gkakiteworldtour.com/events/gka-big-air-kite-world-cup-gran-canaria-2024/