Snøkiting
Camilla Ringvold secures yet another podium spot at Red Bull Ragnarok 2018
Camilla Ringvold is one of the most prestigious athletes competing at Red Bull Ragnarok, and took a bronze medal in this year's edition of the race.
Camilla Ringvold has podiumed Red Bull Ragnarok more often than not. Camilla won the gold at Ragnarok in 2014, since then she has met tough competition from Steph Bridge. This year's race was no exception, as Bridge took her fourth goal medal and Frøydis Sjøvold took the second spot, but Camilla still is more than happy with her own race this year.
– The race this year was very good, even though there is always room for improvement. The weather plays a big part, and the fact that you are unable to trust the predictions one hundred percent is part of what makes this so fun. The gigantic course makes it hard to know how well you are placed underway, but it was a fantastic race once again.
Camilla Ringvold
© Håkon Mæland/MLandpictures.com
Watching more than 350 kiters set off at the start is a spectacular view, but it is also one of the most hectic parts of the race. Camilla tells us that focusing on yourself in the beginning is key to avoid the chaos. That can be challenging even with a lot of experience, but the fact that everyone can enter is what makes this race so special, she adds.
Keep your lines straight
© Kyle Meyr / Red Bull Content Pool
During the five hours of racing everyone has to make decisions underway. Camilla decided to do the whole race without switching kites this year, hoping the wind would build up again coming in to the end of the race. When the wind died out, she ended up spending some time walking towards the end, and tells us you have all this mixed feelings when you receive the message about the race being over.
– It is hard to keep the motivation on top when you are walking, but it is so nice out there and it is such a good time. Everyone is cheering for one another no matter what level you are on and the vibe is great. When you finally receive the message that time is up it is kind of sad, even though you are tired, and you know you have to wait another year to go again!
Camilla Ringvold kiting in Hemsedal
© Håkon Mæland / MLandPictures
When being asked about what she can do to overtake the gold from Steph Bridge, Camilla describes Bridge as an amazing athlete, but admits that the gold medal is tempting her.
– The margins are small in this type of race, but Steph has an amazing stamina. I can guarantee you I am coming back to try and get the gold medal again. There is no other place where you can experience the nature and a competition like this in the world. Plus it is amazing to be out there with so many good friends, I would come back just to meet up with them!
Steph Bridge Camilla Ringvold Eugenia Gueorguieva at Red Bull Ragnarok 2016
© Håkon Mæland / Red Bull Content Pool