Mikaili Sol takes the win and Valentin Rodriguez 2nd place at penultimate GKA freestyle stop in Mauritius

It meant a lot to me to be part of the competition. There's so much support amongst the riders, the crowd was amazing and it felt great to be out there. The water was a bit choppy and the wind gusty at times, but compared to other spots it was next level. 

I had been training hard before this event in the Dominican Republic, so I felt confident going into each heat and ready to throw down. The level at the moment is so high and Adeuri Corniel rode insanely well, I couldn’t believe what he was doing. To be up on the podium with him and Liam was an honour.

The location was incredible! Mauritius is perfect for every style of riding. Over the last month I haven't had any time to train since I've been completing my studies, so I’m really happy with 4th place. The level amongst us female riders gets better and better at every event. The top spot could go to anyone! In the semi finals I had the best heat of my life, landing all the tricks I went for and didn't crash once. This competition was incredible with everybody putting in a huge effort. From the riders to the organisation, it couldn’t have gone better.

I felt strong, fit and ready to be in the final again. After winning Fuerteventura I wanted be on the podium again. I still haven’t found the reason why I lost in semi finals, I was disappointed. I had a small kite and it was a mission to change it. I didn't check the scores on the beach because I was underpowered. I was just focused on having the right mindset and not get distracted but I failed in asking for help I did a mistake, which I’ve now learnt from. Next event I’ll take my coach with me, so I am sure I’ll be better there. Some-times you win, sometimes you lose, that’s how it is.

The wave team were incredible and I really admire how James Carew and Sebastian ride - of course Airton is one to look up to. From the freestyle boys I was amazed by Valentin Rodriguez. He had a massive crash on his KGB 7. It took him a while until he stood up from the water, we were scared. But he did and he was fine. He went out and did the trick again and landed it. That is absolutely crazy and something I will keep in my mind when I need to push myself. Thanks Val!

Mauritius is really cool. Although it’s off the coast of Africa it reminds me of Bali. The environment is really beautiful with waterfalls and tropical forests. The competition area was a little gusty, but it was by far the best spot on the tour so far. I felt a bit nervous before the event because coming to the end of the world cup, every score counts. I was in a heat with my team mate Mika and Rita, Slingshot. Mika crashed four tricks which is so unlike her and I landed my first three. I should have delivered and advanced to the final, but my nerves got the best of me. In the end I came 7th, not something I’m proud of.
On another note Valentin Rodriguez really stood out. In every heat he put out an outstanding performance with power and style. In my opinion, he should have won but let’s see what happens in Dakhla. He deserves to win.

It was super cool to take the world tour to Mauritius, so thank you to the organisation for making it happen. I was excited for the event and started really well. Sadly, in the quarter finals it all ended for me when I crashed my first trick and dislocated my shoulder. I’m back home now and have made a plan with my doc-tors to not have surgery. I will miss the last stop on the tour, but I will be working hard to make a strong comeback, finishing off the year with some video projects. Thank you to everyone who helped me out in Mauritius