Club Parres delivered a memorable performance at the ice race in Switzerland on May 7 and 8, with teammates experiencing a unique journey in a picturesque setting. In the senior category, the crew earned the nickname “Blue Tide” for their strong results. It was the team’s international debut, featuring a lineup that included 17-year-olds alongside veterans. Rafael Sirventsenior and Daniel Parres, noted former service members, led contestants who achieved impressive top-20 finishes in the ELITE class.
Three gold medals for Daniel Parres at the SUP World Cup in Hungary
J.A. Galvan
On the competition’s opening day, an 18-kilometer long-distance race tested endurance. The early portion proved tougher than expected, with winds that created a zigzag path close to the shore. The route was scenic yet demanding, as riders navigated cliffs that added a hectic edge to the long course. The second day intensified the challenge. The morning featured a 1000-meter technical stage requiring six buoy turns and a tricky portage among rocky sections. As the race progressed, a grassy segment forced board carries, leading to several falls and injuries among younger participants, including Paula, a rising competitor in the squad.
In the midst of the event, a series of finals highlighted the depth of talent. A total of eight technical-race tasks showcased the team’s consistency, with earlier sprint finalists posting solid results again. Rafael Sirvent stood out with sixth place in both the Technical Race and the Sprint Race. Daniel Parres placed 11th in the second event, and Sergio Kantoral finished in 18th position. The team demonstrated persistent effort with multiple athletes clocking strong times and steady performances across disciplines. The Junior A SUB 16 division saw male and female podiums, with Pablo Carbonell taking a runner-up spot in the men’s category, followed by Mario Carbonell and Dani Chacopino in fourth and fifth places. In the women’s division, Alexia Soto, Inés Blin, and Paula Ruiz claimed the top three spots in a competitive field, underscoring the club’s depth and rising talent.
The Switzerland event proved to be a valuable experience for all involved. The journey, including the long round trip by caravan, spanned roughly 20 hours, yet the team remained focused and ready for the next challenge. The squad prepared to head to the Mediterranean Circuit in Alicante the following weekend, and the club’s sights were set on the World SUP Festival Costa Blanca 2022, scheduled for June 3, 4 and 5, in Santa Pola. This period marked a clear trajectory toward larger international stages, reinforcing the club’s ambition and the gains from each competition. [Citation: Club Parres competition archive]