Jakub Zavrel Triumphs at the 18th Ohana Mana Cup in Cagliari Amid Challenging Headwinds

The 18th Ohana Mana Cup brought top-tier ocean racing back to the pristine waters of Cagliari, Sardinia. Organized by Kauna Team, this prestigious contest stands as one of the most historic and revered surfski competitions in Europe, attracting an international lineup of approximately 60 elite paddlers from nations including the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Spain.
The race officially got underway on Saturday, September 19, at approximately 1:30 PM. Competitors faced demanding tactical conditions out on the water; while organizers initially anticipated a favorable wind direction shift, athletes were instead greeted by a persistent and grueling headwind that remained constant throughout the entire course.
Navigating these tough elements required exceptional physical stamina and technical precision.
In the men’s category, Czech Republic's Jakub Zavrel delivered a masterclass performance, crossing the finish line in 1h29'16" to take the overall title. He was closely pursued by U23 standout Massimo Palomba, who took second place in 1h30'05", and Olympic medalist Adam Varga, who secured third place in 1h30'11". Jakub Sindel (1h31'42") and U23 paddler Riccardo Maccioccu (1h35'57") rounded out the top five.
The women's competition was highlighted by a remarkable drive from Katerina Milova.
The international champion delivered a standout performance, finishing 10th overall in 1h39'16" to claim the top spot in the female division.
From double-kayak crews (OC2/SS2) and master categories to promising junior talents—such as Marilù Brambilla, who impressed in her category—the event demonstrated the growing strength of the sport. Combining fierce athletic competition with Cagliari’s scenic coastal backdrop, the 2026 Ohana Mana Cup once again delivered an unforgettable weekend of world-class ocean racing.

[go to the magazine: Kayak Lovers]

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