Theo Warden wins FAI European Paragliding Championships
Britain’s Theo Warden won the 15th FAI European Paragliding Championships in Portugal in July, in a competition that came down to the wire.
After eight tasks (53km-93km) over 10 days, Theo Warden beat Germany’s Torsten Siegel into second place by just two points. Theo scored a total of 5,348 points, with Torsten on 5,346. Biagio Alberto Vitale (ITA) was third, just 20 points behind Theo in first place.
At only 19-years-old Theo is one of the youngest-ever winners of the title.
Afterwards, he said: “I can’t really believe it. I don’t really feel like I’m ready to be winning a comp. I feel very new to the comp scene so it all feels a bit fast.”
He added: “I’m young, but I still have so much to learn, and I can’t wait for it. It’s going to be an awesome experience. A good journey. I really hope to carry on and hopefully fly the World Championships.”
Some 150 pilots from 28 countries took part in the European Paragliding Championships, which were held in Montalegre, Portugal from 17-27 July.
In the Women’s competition, Seiko Fukuoka Naville (FRA, Ozone Enzo 3) won gold, ahead of French team mate Meryl Delferriere (FRA, Ozone Enzo 3). Switzerland’s Yael Margelisch (Ozone Enzo 3) won bronze.
In the Teams, Spain took the gold, with Italy and France in silver and bronze.
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Captions:
At just 19 Theo Warden (GBR) is one of the youngest ever pilots to win an FAI European Paragliding Championships. Photo: Daniel Santos
Seiko Fukuoka Naville (FRA), new FAI Women’s European Paragliding Champion 2018. Photo: Daniel Santos
All smiles … Team Spain celebrate winning their Nations gold at the 15th FAI European Paragliding Championships in Portugal. Photo: Daniel Santos
