Tommaso Lazzari, the Under-14 Kitesurfing World Champion who grew up in Boa Vista

Tommaso Lazzari , a young Italian kiter who grew up in Cape Verde, won the Under 14 world title in the Youth Kite World Championship off Tarifa, Spain. This interview with the incredibly talented twelve-year-old reveals how the island of Boa Vista was crucial to his success, a natural gym and true training ground par excellence.

From Boa Vista to the World Title

Tommaso's passion for kitesurfing was born spontaneously, living in a place where the wind and the sea are the protagonists . "I started at 6 years old with a baby kite, watching my mom take lessons," he says. At 8, he took his first serious course with the team at KiteKriol , who have guided him to this day.

The champion's embrace with his mum, his gratest fan

Boa Vista's environment played a crucial role. "It's fantastic to be able to practice outdoor sports on the sea 12 months a year ," says Tommaso, emphasizing that the often challenging local conditions perfectly prepared him for the world competition in Tarifa. "Every spot is different," he explains, "but on Boa Vista the conditions are more challenging, which gave me an advantage." The island offers spots suitable for all levels, from "Praia de Carlota" for beginners to more technical and challenging spots that, due to a " silent agreement among riders," he prefers not to reveal!

Victory and future dreams

The idea of participating in the World Championships came from a friend's recommendation, and the experience exceeded all expectations . Despite being well-prepared, Tommaso didn't expect to win. "The adrenaline was at its peak," he recalls, describing the moment his coach, Matchu Lopes (a top professional kiteboarder) announced his victory in the final .

Tommaso with his coach Matchu Lopes, professional kitesurfing champion

Balancing school and training is a challenge, but his school allows him two free afternoons a week, as well as weekends, to devote entirely to kitesurfing. His goal now is to repeat his World Championship title and participate in other regional competitions. Although he dreams of traveling the world, his heart remains tied to Boa Vista , his "home."

The message of a small great champion

Tommaso has a clear message for anyone who wants to get into this sport: "I recommend everyone to try it , for the emotions it can give." For him, the essence of kitesurfing can be summed up in a single phrase: "I fly to win... or I win by flying." "An emotion," he repeats smiling, of "pure adrenaline and joy" that always accompanies him, along with the Cape Verde flag and a lucky charm from KiteKriol , the sports center where he trains in Boa Vista, which he brings with him to every competition.

"I fly to win... or I win by flying"

Boa Vista, the ocean paradise where kitesurfing and hydrofoil champions are trained.

Boa Vista is rapidly emerging as a premier location for training and developing kitesurfing and hydrofoiling talent. The island, with its consistent wind conditions and crystal-clear waters, offers an ideal environment for athletes seeking to hone their skills.

Here you'll find everything you need to become an expert kiter and train champions . The conditions are perfect for training, whether you're a beginner or someone looking to improve. The strong, steady winds, especially from January to April, combined with unique ocean spots with diverse characteristics, allow you to work on every aspect of the discipline, from speed to acrobatic maneuvers.

A center of natural excellence

Boa Vista's geographic features are key. The long sandy beaches and sheltered bays offer spots for all levels. The unique combination of natural factors not only attracts international athletes seeking a world-class training ground, but is also fostering the growth of a local talent community. It's important to emphasize the importance of investing in the next generation , offering them the opportunity to train "at home," without having to travel abroad.

Boa Vista is a paradise for kite surfing, windsurfing, hydrofoiling and wave surfing.

A global hub for water sports

With these characteristics, the prospect is that Boa Vista, as is happening with Sal, will become a true water sports hub, renowned worldwide as a reference point for kitesurfing, hydrofoiling, and surfing. These low-impact disciplines can coexist harmoniously with its rich natural environment.

Come fly with us over the waves www.iloveboavista.com