The first stop of the 2023 APP World Racing Tour did not disappoint as intense competition leads to the crowning of APP originals, Connor Baxter and Fiona Wylde, as champions.
Connor Baxter claimed the first sprint title of the 2023 season in the same place he was crowned world champion in 2022. Baxter executed the perfect game plan from start to finish, making him undeniably the best sprinter in the world at present. New Caledonia’s Noic Garioud claimed second place after proving to be a fierce competitor throughout, not giving Connor chance to breathe in the final. It was Japan’s Shuri ‘Shrimpy’ Araki who claimed third, with his compatriot and favourite for today’s race, Rai Taguchi, being knocked out in the repecharge in a huge upset for the impressive Japanese racer.
On the women’s side, it was Fiona Wylde who took the top spot in an incredible comeback after an 18-month hiatus from racing due to a shoulder injury. As one of the original racers on Tour and 2017 World Champion, clearly we can expect big things from this racer once again in 2023 and beyond. France’s Melanie Lafenetre claimed second and Argentina’s Juliette DuHaime, third, with 2022 Alicante SUP Open sprint champion Alba Frey getting knocked out in the repecharge.
With a stacked line up, nail-biting heats and photo finishes, Costa Blanca has welcomed the APP World Tour into a new season with a bang.