Kaida 'Snapdragon' Fuerte - Dune Dasher

What began as one of the most dangerous races across the Sahara has since grown so drastically in popularity, "Dune Dashing" has become a world-wide phenomenon. Accomplished "Dune Dashers" now compete the world over, in some of the most exotic climates, much to the excitement and ardour of enthusiastic crowds.

Lucky Charm: Familial Dragon Crest
Kaida's father, Ignacio, was known as one of the best - until the "accident" that forever took him out of the sport. Vowing to carry on her father's legacy, she comes to every race with the protective spirit of her father's iconic dragon emblazoned upon her race uniform - knowing that he is there in spirit pushes her to test the limits of her ability and take the risks she needs to come out on top. Vowing to never fall victim to the same under-handed tactics that crippled her father, Kaida comes to her races prepared with her specially modified "Regulation-Safe" dashing skates.

Special Trick: Explosive Exhaust Dune Skates
When in a pinch, these gravity-repulsing skates can recycle their exhaust, building up explosive pressure that is ultimately released in a sudden eruption that can give Kaida the air, speed, or smokescreen cover she needs to leave her opponents in the sand and dust.

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Boy this was a wild ride. Inspired by speed skaters and surfing! I had another idea that was around 60% rendered, but ended up throwing it out, since it didn't convey the intensity and speed I was looking for. I was originally going to paint a "Dune Glider", but I think I arrived at something closer with this second piece. Also, incorporating the lucky charm into the outfit didn't occur to me until much later - I was so glued to it being a tangible item instead of a symbolic item.

Done for a DeviantART contest!