A Garda Afternoon

Rider & Words: Manuela Jungo
Photos: Emanuela Cauli
Location: Duotone Pro Center, Lake Garda
Date: Monday 29th May, 2023

Invited to join her pro riding peers on Lake Garda, it was never going to be a bad day for Manuela Jungo. Especially as the sun was out, and the lake’s predictable Ora winds arrived on cue…

The anticipation was palpable as I arrived at the picturesque Duotone Pro Center Tobole on the shores of Lake Garda. It was a beautiful day, with clear skies and the promise of adventure in the air. I had been eagerly waiting for the southerly Ora wind to kick in, and during that time, I took the opportunity to explore the amazing center.

As I wandered around, marveling at the state-of-the-art equipment and vibrant atmosphere, my friends started to arrive one by one. Nia Suardiaz, Gollito Estredo, Rocco Sotomayor, Tom and Aleks Acherer and photographer Emanuela Cauli joined me, and we all shared the excitement of the day ahead.

Finally, the thermal wind began to show signs of picking up, and we wasted no time. With a sense of exhilaration, we quickly rigged up our favorite setups and headed out onto the crystal-clear waters of Lake Garda. Paddling out for about 20 meters, we rode upwind, aiming for the tunnel.

The experience of riding with such a talented and passionate team was incredible. The boat with the photographers followed our every move, capturing the essence of our rides. Each rider showcased their favorite and best freestyle tricks, pushing the boundaries of what seemed possible. The lake was our canvas, and we painted it with our daring moves and breathtaking maneuvers.

After the freestyle session, we switched gears and rode close together. As a group, we took to the water, gliding effortlessly across the lake's surface. It was a thrilling sight to witness everyone cruising so close together, honing their skills and reveling in the joy of flight. The harmony between wind, water, and our gear was something truly magical.

Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as we challenged ourselves and each other, pushing our limits and striving for perfection. The photographers captured the moments of triumph, freeze-framing the pure joy and determination etched on our faces. It was a true testament to the power of sports and the human spirit.

As the day progressed, the wind gradually began to taper off, reminding us of its ephemeral nature. But we made the most of every precious moment, savoring the last gusts before bidding farewell to the water. With a mixture of exhaustion and contentment, we managed to make our way back to shore, just in time before the wind died completely.

The evening was a perfect ending to a remarkable day. We gathered together at the center, sharing stories of our exhilarating adventures over delicious food and lively conversations. The sense of community and the shared passion for wind sports were tangible, as we reveled in the company of like-minded individuals.

As the sun began to set, painting the sky with vibrant hues, we reflected on the day's events. It was a day filled with adrenaline, laughter, and the sheer pleasure of wingfoiling. We had challenged ourselves and embraced new experiences. Lake Garda providing the backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.