Helen Thompson (22), who is now ranked fifth woman in the world and 20th overall, was up against 50 world class competitors from 20 nations including America, Australia, France, Norway and Poland.

The Killearn athlete competed in three disciplines, wave riding, freestyle and course racing, gaining her second place in the course race.

Top spot went to Kari Schibevaag from Norway, with Helen and other competitors battling against rough weather which included a hail storm.

The former Balfron High School pupil, sponsored by Xcel Wetsuits and Zeal Optics, said: "lt was tough but I felt over the moon afterwards because I didn't think I'd done enough to get the second place. I'm really chuffed.

"The race involved a lot of up wind tacking as a strong onshore wind made conditions difficult."

This was the first of eight World Cup races in the Kite Pro World Tour event held over a week culminating on May 5.

Helen's win was even more impressive considering her kite surfing equipment, worth £5,000, was stolen last November. The Herald reported the theft on its front page at the time and there were real fears she would not be able to compete this season.

She said: "After doing well in the UK last year it was very disappointing having all my equipment stolen. There wasn't a lot of hope of getting on to the competition circuit in 2008 with no kit. However the winter training on the snow and generosity from North Kiteboarding seems to have paid off."

Helen would like to thank everyone who helped support her, especially Colin from Victoria Builders Ltd for helping with the transport costs

The second round of the event will be held in Paros, Greece, from June 19-25.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Helen on the world tour this year can contact her on ht_kite@hotmail.co.uk