Mojacar kitesurfer soaring to the top

MOJACAR kitesurfer, Osaia Reding, carried on her fantastic season of results, coming second in the World Youth Championships in Sant Père Pescador, Catalonia last week.

Some 80 children competed in the prestigious event, many travelling from as far afield as the Philippines, Brazil, China and Argentina. The young Mojacar schoolgirl competed in the under-15’s category and her skills were rewarded with a place on the podium.

In this year’s competitions Osaia had amazing success, coming fifth in the Junior World Cup in France and being crowned champion at the Spanish Freestyle event in La Manga.

The 12-year-old began kite surfing aged seven under the guidance of her father Sebastien who is also her coach.

Sebastien still actively competes and was delighted, as the oldest competitor, to come second in the La Manga senior event. Osaia trains in Mojacar and also spends time in Brazil where conditions for the sport are excellent. A pupil at school in Mojacar, she has to combine her studies and homework with training.

Having travelled extensively with her French parents, she speaks four languages and said “travelling is her university of life.” Proud to be a ‘Mojaquero’ the young schoolgirl’s kite is decorated with a picture of the ‘Indalo man,’ a symbol of the area, as well as Mojacar’s coat of arms.

Although mostly self-funded, Osaia is grateful to her sponsors which include F1-Spain, Kitaddict, Barraca Do Spain and Mojacar Council.

Speaking about her recent achievement, Osaia told EWN: “I enjoyed the competition very much, I was happy that I landed all my tricks and I had a great time with the other riders.” She went on to say she was grateful to all her sponsors who allow her to continue her passion.

The competitions are over for this season and Osaia will have a chance to relax and enjoy the summer before preparations begin for the next round of events.