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Madeirense Ivone Silva Crowned Junior World Champion in Paragliding

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
August 31, 2026
2 min read

Ivone Silva from Madeira has been awarded the title of Junior World Champion in Paragliding, marking a significant achievement for Portuguese paragliding.

Ivone Silva, a talented athlete from Madeira, has made history by winning the title of Junior World Champion in Paragliding at the 2nd FAI Junior World Paragliding Championships held in Kruševo, North Macedonia. This prestigious event brought together young paragliders from around the world, showcasing their skills and competitive spirit.

Silva secured her victory with an impressive score of 2,778.9 points, outstripping her closest competitor, British athlete Kanan Thakur, by 135.8 points. Her consistent performance throughout the competition, particularly from the second round, ensured her top position in the female category. In the overall standings, which included both male and female competitors, Silva achieved a commendable 25th place.

This victory has been celebrated not only by Ivone Silva’s local supporters but also by the Federação Portuguesa de Voo Livre (Portuguese Free Flight Federation), which praised her exceptional dedication and commitment to the sport. Eugénio de Almeida, the president of the federation, highlighted the importance of this achievement for Portuguese paragliding, emphasizing the talent and quality it represents on the international stage.

Winning this title is a remarkable accomplishment for Silva, who has not only elevated her personal profile but also brought attention to Madeira and Portugal’s potential in international paragliding competitions. Her success underscores the growing reputation of Portuguese athletes in the global sporting arena, particularly in the niche field of free flight sports.

The championship in Kruševo is recognized for its challenging courses and diverse weather conditions, which test the limits of young athletes’ skills and endurance. Silva's victory here is a testament to her rigorous training regimen and mental fortitude.

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Madeira Guide

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