After the cancellation of Day 2, the competition resumed on Day 3 with the second task of the week. Taking advantage of what were likely the least windy conditions we’ll see in Linzhou, a 90+ km task was set, circling around the Linzhou area and showcasing the terrain from multiple angles.

The race began at 12:30, with Hippolyte Melo launching just minutes before the start gate opened. The day turned out to be technically demanding, with weak and windy conditions in parts of the route, and stronger, punchier thermals developing later toward the end of the task. Melo managed to navigate the challenges with skill and confidence, claiming his first World Cup task win—an impressive performance for the young French pilot.

He was closely followed by fellow countryman Honorin Hamard, who’s now sitting in the overall lead. In the women’s category, Galen Kirkpatrick continues to hold on to her lead with another solid flight.

Looking ahead, the forecast points to increasing winds, likely setting the stage for some trickier conditions in the coming days.