Ellie Aldridge Claims Historic Kitesurfing Gold for Team GB at Paris Olympics
- Ellie Aldridge, aged 27, emerged victorious in the final kitesurfing races at the Olympics held in Marseille.
- This event marked the debut of kitesurfing in the Olympic Games.
- Aldridge's impressive performance solidified her status as a top competitor in the sport.
In a landmark achievement for British sports, Ellie Aldridge has won the first-ever Olympic gold medal in kitesurfing, elevating Team GB's total to 13 golds at the Paris Games. This victory comes after a brief period without top prizes for the team. The Duchess of Edinburgh, present in Paris to support British athletes, expressed her excitement, stating it was a "thrill" to witness their performances and commending Team GB for making the nation proud. Kitesurfing, which made its Olympic debut in Marseille, features competitors soaring above the water at speeds reaching 40 knots, powered by large kites. Aldridge's triumph on Thursday was complemented by cyclist Emma Finucane, who secured a bronze medal in the women's keirin event, further contributing to Team GB's medal tally. In another significant development, Cindy Ngamba, a member of the Refugee Olympic Team, is set to compete in the semi-finals of the women's middleweight boxing category. Ngamba, who began her boxing journey at the Bolton Lads and Girls Club at the age of 14, has already guaranteed herself a medal, marking a historic moment for the team. Her coach, Ms. Robinson, expressed immense pride in Ngamba's journey, highlighting the club's role in nurturing her talent. As Ngamba prepares for her semi-final, her coach sent an encouraging message: “Smash it, Cindy. Just smash it, girl,” reflecting the support and hope surrounding her Olympic aspirations.