Maximilian Seis Triumphs in the Opening Sailplane Grand Prix Qualifier in Santa Cilia, Spain
The 14 pilots of the event, with Maximilien Seis (FRA), Kévin Faur (FRA) and Jon Gatfield (UK) on the podium.
The first Qualifying Sailplane Grand Prix of Serie 12 has concluded with spectacular races in Santa Cilia, Spain. Over the course of the event, 14 elite pilots took to the skies in the 15m class, competing against the dramatic backdrop of the Pyrenean mountains.
A Week of Soaring Highs
This week-long competition was marked by thrilling contests and strategic flying, culminating in a gripping final race. French pilot Maximilian Seis emerged victorious with a total of 56 points, clinching his spot in the 2025 final. His consistent performance throughout the week ensured his lead, making him a deserving winner. The Sailplane Grand Prix World Champion in 2015 (Serie 6) is once again making it to the World Final!
Podium Finishers
Close on his heels, fellow Frenchman Kévin Faur finished second with 45 points. The nail-biting finale race saw Faur securing his position and a ticket to the final, set to be held in St-Auban in the French Provence area. Jon Gatfield from the UK rounded out the podium, accumulating 42 points to complete an impressive line-up of top aviators.
Kévin Faur (FRA) will be flying a World Final for the first time, congratulations!
Final Race Dynamics
The last race of the series was particularly intense, with Maximilian Seis already leading comfortably by 9 points ahead of the third-place contender, Jon Gatfield. The pressure was palpable on Kevin Faur, who was only 2 points ahead of Gatfield. Meanwhile, Klaus Kalmbach from Germany also remained in contention, having a slight chance to surpass Faur with potential bonus points up for grabs on the last day.
Gratitude to the Hosts
Special thanks were extended to the Host Fly-Pyr Santa Cilia for their unwavering commitment and hospitality, which greatly contributed to the success of this event. A special thanks is attributed by the SGP team to Luis, Jaume and Angel.
If you missed anything, you can replay the races from our Youtube channel below:
Looking Forward
Attention now turns to the next Qualifying SGP, which will take place in just a few days at Elverum Starmoen airfield in Norway. Fans and enthusiasts can follow the upcoming races and support their favorite pilots on the official website, www.sgp.aero, and on social medias!
#spain2024 #serie12
