Steven Van Broeckhoven scored very well with his first entry in PWA worldcup freestyle. In Lanzarote he ended 6th overall and he impressed the international scene. In more wave conditions (with Steven isn't used to) he performed very well. Below you can find some input on www.pwaworldtour.com and some photos.

Overall impression : Much focus has deservedly fallen upon the humble shoulders of Belguim's Steven Van Broeckhoven (F2/Maui Sails) this week, after successive, outstanding performances on the European stage have rocketed him into the limelight. A sense of anticipation and an aura of excitement descended onto the beach each time he took to the water, where he stunned the world with his explosive style.


Day 2: The early men's round saw a disappointing exit for France's Leo Ray (Naish/Naish/MFC) at the hands of one of the most exciting up-and-coming athletes in the sport, Steven Van Broeckhoven (F2/MauiSails).  To face Van Broeckhoven in the final men's heat of the day. On his best form, the Belgian did enough to displace Frans, ending his day on a high with his sights set firmly on the top spot. A full cono from Van Broeckhoven gets a cheers from the crowd. The level has just jumped in this heat. Thode and Van Broeckhoven, despite being against opponents are matching each other in an epic display.


Back to the men, as European Champion Van Broekhoven sets the bar with a perfect burner. He is really impressing in this second round. He pulls out a fantastic culo. Unbelievable action here. Heat 47 is underway, Tonky Frans is against Steven Van Broeckhoven - a sailor who has been standing out in this second elimination. An impeccable full cono by Von Broeckhoven outstands the judges. A backloop by Frans is swiftly equalised by the best culo that we have seen this afternoon. An incredible air-ponch by Belgium's star impresses the judges, as both sailors fill their score-sheets. Von Broeckhoven does enough to take victory, as we end Day Two.


Day 5: Van Broeckhoven, in particular, was outstanding today, tactfully carving his way through the rounds with clinical displays of brilliance. Disposing of Taty Frans (Starboard/MauiSails) and Phillip Soltysiak, the new freestyle sensation looked incredible, nailing a repertoire of the most complex moves ever seen. Ultimately, Estredo was the thorn in the Belgian's side, in a heat that saw Van Broeckhoven depart earlier than he deserved.  In the closest heat yet, Estredo and Van Broeckhoven are neck and neck, with neither sailor dropping a trick. They have both planed cleanly from air funnells, conos and burners, Estredo has bounces through a double funnell, and landed an air chacho bolt upright. It is to close to call, but fantastic to watch. Estredo takes the win after a 3-2 decision. The World Champion's decision to miss the opening round of the single has stopped Van Broeckhoven in his tracks in a slightly unfair twist. Their heat should have been a final, as the Belgian really has been on form today, and his performance here will send a warning to those sailors who feel comfortable at the top.

Check out more photos from John Carter of MauiSails team in PWA Lanzarote event.