Race day began with a mix of adrenaline, excitement and nerves. Listening to the farewell speeches and watching everyone say their goodbyes made the moment feel very real.

As we crossed the start line, a boat packed with around 40 people was waiting to cheer us on. The support was incredible. We hooted, cheered back and shared a moment of relief and excitement, after all the planning and preparation, we were finally underway.

We chose to hug the shoreline along Blouberg Beach. Known as the kite-surfing capital of the world, Blouberg is rarely short on wind and it gave us a solid start.

As night fell, the conditions got crazier as the waves began to match the huge winds.