The 14th Kitesurf World Cup of the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Global Kitesports Associations (GKA) and the 3rd Wingfoil World Cup organized by the Global Wingsports Association (GWA) officially kicked off on Sunday in Dakhla and will run until October 6.
Organized by the Dakhla Lagoon Association for Sports Development and Cultural Activities, these events feature approximately 70 athletes from 17 countries. Notable Moroccan participants include Ali Bakali, Moumim Maji, Ismail Adarzane, and Mohammed Ghali Khatour in kitesurfing, along with Hamouda Houine in wingfoiling.
Laila Ouachi, President of the organizing association, noted the growing interest in kitesurfing and Dakhla’s appeal as a tourist destination, renowned for its stunning natural resources. She stated, “The ultimate goal of this competition is to build a Moroccan team capable of representing our country at the Olympics in this increasingly popular sport.”
The event also seeks to raise awareness about the importance of oceans and their ecological significance, highlighted by the campaign “Protect What You Love, Save the Ocean.” This initiative, launched six months ago in collaboration with the Royal Moroccan Sailing Federation, targets local youth and students, leading to recommendations for environmental preservation projects in Dakhla and its surrounding areas.
Ali Bakali, a kitesurfing competitor, shared his excitement, noting that his “recent victory in the national championship positions him to compete on the international stage.”
Spanish participant Danilla Morino expressed her enthusiasm about participating in the World Cup and hopes for favorable conditions to achieve strong results.