This weekend (15-16/1/2022), the most prestigious race in the jet ski world took place in Pattaya City on the Gulf of Thailand. After Reiterer's last triumph in 2015, the Lower Austrian became runner-up once in the following years, had to surrender due to technical issues four years in a row and did not attend last year to the global Covid 19 pandemic. After his European and World Champion titles in 2021, Reiterer confidently started the preparations for this year's King's Cup.
Reiterer lined up alongside the best pilots in the world on the starting line in Thailand. The athletes started one of the most exciting race weekends in four motos, on the most difficult stretches of water. With a second and a first place, the Bad Fischau occupied the half-time lead, closely followed by Quinten Bossche (BEL) and Raphael Maurin (FRA). After a sovereign victory for the Belgian in the third race, it was all or nothing for Reiterer in the final showdown.
The conditions on the water are constantly changing and especially in the afternoon the riders had to contend with high waves. Adjusting the jet skis in such changing conditions always forces compromises and also demands greater concentration and foresight from the athletes. Bossche and Reiterer placed side by side for the start of the final moto. The excitement was palpable as the top 16 in the world raced towards the first buoy. Quinten won the start and Kevin was only able to fight his way up to second place after lap three. Now it was time to give everything for the two-time champion. The leading Belgian fell into a wave front and lost his ski. At the last moment, Reiterer dodged the swimming competitor and took the lead. The Austrian drove to a flawless victory despite the difficult conditions and thus secured his third title.
Kevin experienced more goose bumps at the award ceremony. After the Austrian anthem sounded and his country's flag was hoisted, Reiterer was presented with the trophy by the royal guards of Thailand.
"I still can't believe it. I was denied this opportunity for a long time. But this year I was able to show my best in all four motos and secure the title. Thanks to my Kev Racing Team, the Flamingo Team and my main sponsor Knauf that all brought me here. Thanks to all of them I can make dreams become a reality."
Kevin Reiterer won his first title in 2008 at the age of sixteen. Now he is a three-time Champion, passing the most successful racer in history and his childhood idol, Jeff Jacobs (USA, 2-time winner). The most successful motorsport rider of Austria and and now maybe considered by some a legend of his sport.
