14th Paragliding World Cup Superfinal 2024 – daily report : Task 1

Roldanillo, Colombia – Feburary 6, 2025

After a weather-related cancellation on day one, hopes were high as pilots made their way up to takeoff for the second day of the Paragliding World Cup Superfinal in Roldanillo. Task 1 was finally set—an optimized 110.7 km route featuring a long southern leg designed to offer multiple tactical options.

With takeoff going smoothly, all pilots were in the air and ready for the 11:55 start. However, widespread shading from high clouds and overdevelopment made for weak thermals, particularly in the first half of the race. Pilots had to work carefully to stay in the air and navigate the slow, technical conditions.

As competitors neared the goal, the weather shifted dramatically. The overdevelopment intensified, causing thermals to strengthen and accelerating the race in the final stretch. The leading gaggle arrived at goal just in time—shortly afterward, heavy rain began to fall, forcing organizers to stop the task.

Maxime Pinot emerged as the overall winner of the first task, while Keiko Hiraki claimed victory in the women’s category. With the first task now completed, pilots are eager to build on the momentum as the competition continues.