From June 6-8, 2025, the beautiful southwest coast of Gran Canaria will come alive as top stand-up paddle athletes gather for theGran Canaria PRO. Among them is Alba Frey, ISA 2024 Sprint World Champion and Starboard Dream Team rider. As a rising star from the Canary Islands, Alba has already left her mark in previous editions of this event.
With her strong connection to the Gran Canaria PRO and her passion for the sport, Alba shares her insights on what makes this competition so special, the gear she’ll rely on, and how she approaches the exciting two-day format.
Let’s dive into her story and hear how she plans to tackle the race at home, surrounded by family, friends, and the stunning Atlantic backdrop.
You’ve already taken part in several editions of the Gran Canaria PRO, what makes this event special for you?
I’m from the Canary Islands, so having an event at home is always something special. The Gran Canaria PRO is an incredible event in paradise. The conditions are always great, and we Canarians are very welcoming people, which makes it a super fun race and gives all the riders a really beautiful experience.
What are your best memories from previous Gran Canaria PRO events?
My first international event was the Gran Canaria PRO in 2022, a technical race with two heats that got me completely hooked on the sport and made me want to compete at the highest level. I guess that first Gran Canaria PRO marked the true beginning of my journey in this sport, which is why I have such a special affection for it.
What kind of conditions do you expect? And what gear are you going to use?
I believe it will be a no-wind race with relatively calm ocean conditions. A long-distance course where you’ll sweat and give everything. That’s why I’ll be using the best board in the world, the Starboard All Star.
The event now spans over two days, with both long distance and sprints. How do you approach this format physically and mentally?
The Gran Canaria PRO will be my last race of the first half of the season, and it’s happening at home. Honestly, I just want to enjoy it. I want to close this first chapter of the season surrounded by family and friends, with a really fun race. I’ll give my all in the long distance and in the sprints, but without any pressure. Just enjoying this final race in the best place in the world.
As a role model for younger paddlers, what advice would you give young girls looking to start SUP racing?
Give it a try! Get into the sport and try racing too, but without pressure. Just enjoy the amazing vibe this sport offers, and take the opportunity to meet people from all around the world. Stand up paddling has brought so many good things into my life, and I truly encourage young people to step into this wonderful sport.
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