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Welcome to <strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong>’s Online Experience.<br />

Thank you for downloading<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong>the<br />

world’s First Electronic Kiting <strong>Magazine</strong>.<br />

Turn your speakers on<br />

Click on the video link<br />

Click on the hyperlinks for the latest news,<br />

products, and offerings from our partners<br />

Use the links in news and features to find out<br />

more info on places, people and events<br />

Use your arrow keys or page up,<br />

page down, keys to navigate<br />

Press escape to leave the document<br />

ENJOY!<br />

Location: Teahupo’o Rider: Ben Wilson Lens: Tim McKenna


LIVE INTERVIEWS WITH<br />

DESIGNERS, PRO-RIDERS,<br />

INDUSTRY LEADERS AND<br />

KITE PERSONALITIES<br />

PODcAST #69:<br />

Jeff Howard<br />

Lifetime warranty kite repairs, Crazy fly,<br />

airush and more about kiting in Texas<br />

ASK QUESTIONS REAL-TIME<br />

DURING THE SHOW ON OR POST<br />

THEM ON YOUR LOcAL FORUM<br />

PODcAST #68:<br />

MauriCio TosCano/PKra<br />

find out what’s new on the PKra tour<br />

for 2007 and new comp formats.<br />

TEcH OUT WITH THE R&D<br />

TEAM AS THEY ROLL OUT<br />

NEW GEAR.<br />

PODcAST #67:<br />

oCean rodeo<br />

<strong>The</strong> skinny on or’s new surf Pyro<br />

drysuit and 07 product line up<br />

Got a suggestion?<br />

Email info@theringmedia.com<br />

Location: Dominican Republic Rider: Jose Luis Lens: Raphael Faux<br />

Featured Video: Taking Davenport<br />

“Homegrown and hilarious!”<br />

CLICK BOX BELOW<br />

Taking Davenport is a film about the growing territorial<br />

divide between windsurfers and kitesurfers in Santa<br />

Cruz, California. This action-packed movie follows the<br />

characters on the north coast and gives you scenery<br />

and wave action in a way few have seen.<br />

Available at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> store for just $29.99,<br />

shipping included!


Location: Maui Rider: Shawn Richman Lens: Tracy Kraft<br />

special:<br />

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piC: BiLDERBaCK<br />

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For more info on the ‘07 MiG kite and Recoil board<br />

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Many people do not realize that<br />

Shannon Best is one of the most<br />

talented and stylish riders in our<br />

sport. From the most technical<br />

move to burning turns at mach<br />

speeds, Shannon makes everything<br />

look effortless. <strong>The</strong> photo on the<br />

cover was shot in Cumbuco, Brazil,<br />

and is a typical day in the office for<br />

the man behind Best Kiteboarding.<br />

Photo Gavin Butler<br />

F e a t u r e s<br />

26 Paul Menta<br />

Instructional Guru Speaks Out.<br />

56 speed Management<br />

Slow down to speed up.<br />

44 Forum Face-Off<br />

Online personalities revealed.<br />

62 Dominican republic<br />

<strong>The</strong> allure of <strong>Cabarete</strong>.<br />

Bruna Kajiya works on her handlepass 3’s off the coast of Brazil.<br />

Photo Gavin Butler<br />

D e P a r t M e n T S<br />

12 Launch<br />

Speed riding with Matt Gerdes.<br />

30 Close Up<br />

Get to know Peter Trow and Tonia Farman.<br />

38 Backwoods Pismo Beach<br />

Discover the home of the annual Kitexpo event.<br />

48 exposed<br />

Riding shots, places and people from around<br />

the world.<br />

60 Bladder Issues<br />

How to repair your one-pump leading edge.<br />

70 Head Case: anatomy of a Helmet<br />

Guide for protecting your dome.<br />

72 Product Watch<br />

new gear and accessories available this spring.<br />

thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com


THINK<br />

Coming to terms<br />

Recently, I came<br />

to the harsh<br />

reality that I am<br />

now considered<br />

old school. Living<br />

with two young<br />

up and coming<br />

kiteboarders<br />

here in Corpus<br />

Christi has made<br />

me come to this<br />

conclusion. I<br />

have learned to<br />

embrace my old school ways and am ok with it. For those of you<br />

out there who are still coming to terms with your old school ways,<br />

it is really not that bad of thing.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> compound is split into two levels. <strong>The</strong><br />

boys live downstairs in the coach’s quarters, and I live upstairs in<br />

my own area. <strong>The</strong> six-bedroom house is situated on one of the<br />

best kiteboarding launches in town and my editorial office looks<br />

out over our little flat water wonderland. Most of you probably<br />

think I am crazy to live with two young bucks, but they are under<br />

threat of death and know the compound is a training center and<br />

not a party house. Everyday I learn something new from these kids.<br />

What I once thought was cool and legit, I am quickly learning is not<br />

cool anymore.<br />

Zach Kleppe and Josh Griffiths teach lessons for South Coast<br />

Kiteboarding during the day and at night they pour over the latest<br />

kiteboarding DVDs, magazines and forums, critically examining<br />

every detail. Hand placement on the bars, extensions on kiteloops,<br />

where you grab on the board, the angle of a kite during a<br />

powered moves; nothing gets past these kids. If it isn’t legit,<br />

they call bullshit. Sitting back and watching this is an education<br />

in itself. <strong>The</strong>y heckle me for flying bow kites, but respect me<br />

for getting out there and trying. It’s usually just hot air and<br />

testosterone, but this has made me realize how important this<br />

process is to evolve our sport.<br />

As I said, I have come to terms with the fact that I am old school.<br />

I started kiting on a two-line kite and a Jimmy Lewis Picklefork.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re was a time when I was just as adamant about “legit” riding,<br />

and I called out the “posers” myself. I have definitely changed my<br />

thinking over the last eight years. While I love watching the boys<br />

push each other to up their level, I also have to remind them to<br />

have fun. Over the years I have learned that kiteboarding is about<br />

personal progression. When I go out and pull that new move I<br />

have been dreaming of trying, I feel like a million bucks even if it is<br />

not “legit” in their book.<br />

It’s ok to jump high and wiggle. I still get the same rush as when<br />

I learned to jump on a two line. I try to grab, but if I can’t, I am ok<br />

with it. I don’t want to do knee-breaking kiteloop handlepasses,<br />

but I do try to loop my kite. My main goal is to go out and have<br />

fun and live to kite another day. So to all of you old schoolers out<br />

there, keep charging hard and progressing your level on your own<br />

terms. Don’t worry about trying keep up with the young bucks.<br />

And, to all you hardcore young riders who are critical of everyone<br />

around you, keep pushing the level, but don’t forget to have fun.<br />

*ATTENTION TO DETAIL<br />

Why compromise when you can have it all.<br />

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nathan, Glenn Dubock, Bryan elkus, VanMalson, Brian Ackerman, Michael Jones,<br />

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Karen Tone, Rory Monroe, John Holzall, Real Kiteboarding, Slingshot, Vela, Dave<br />

Loop, Ocean Rodeo, nikki Ivanoski, Sandra Franco, Marina Chang, Carl Preston,<br />

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<strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> is a subsidiary of <strong>The</strong> Ring Media Inc.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Mystic Warrior waist harness is better than<br />

ever this year. New structure and new materials<br />

provide unsurpassed comfort for overpowered<br />

riding as well as the flexibility for new school tricks.<br />

With the handless pass system and the secured<br />

leash rings this is the best waist harness to date!<br />

<strong>The</strong> first harness of its kind, specifically<br />

made for the snow. With unique features<br />

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thinner more comfortable shape for snow,<br />

this is the "must have" product for<br />

the winter season.<br />

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performing the Lightning dry suit introduces a whole<br />

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For the complete Mystic Kiteboarding catalog visit www.mystickiteboarding.com - For dealer and product details email us at info@mystickiteboardingusa.com, or call us at 415.722.7884.<br />

thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com


LauNCH<br />

SPEED<br />

RIDING:<br />

By Marina Chang Lens Alex Habeler<br />

D e F Y I N G t H e L a W s O F G r a V I t Y<br />

the Start<br />

People have been ski-launching<br />

with paragliders since the 80s, but<br />

speed riding as we know it began<br />

about four seasons ago in the<br />

French Alps. A few adventurous<br />

paraglider pilots thought it would<br />

be fun to use skydiving canopies to<br />

descend from some of the biggest<br />

mountaintops in France. <strong>The</strong> rigs<br />

allowed them to go down the<br />

slopes fast and catch air, but left<br />

something to be desired in terms of<br />

glide, stability and maneuverability.<br />

<strong>The</strong> sport slowly evolved and<br />

gained the attention of companies<br />

involved in both paragliding and<br />

kiteboarding like Ozone, Gin,<br />

Flysurfer and Advance. This winter<br />

It’s on days like this that test pilot Matt Gerdes most loves his job.<br />

season the first production speed<br />

riding wings were launched along<br />

with the sports first organized<br />

competitions and demos. We<br />

caught up with Ozone test pilot<br />

Matt Gerdes to find more about<br />

this crazy new sport that is starting<br />

to gain the attention of adrenalin<br />

junkies worldwide.<br />

What is speed riding?<br />

Speed riding or flying is the practice<br />

of flying beneath a small paragliderlike<br />

canopy using skis to launch and<br />

land. Because of the high speeds,<br />

skis are necessary to launch and<br />

land with because the normal flying<br />

speed of the wings is faster than<br />

most people can run!<br />

What is the feeling of speed riding<br />

like and what do you think is the<br />

sports appeal to those who are<br />

interested in trying out this sport?<br />

<strong>The</strong> feeling is fast. Anyone who likes<br />

to go fast in the air or on the snow<br />

will instantly love it.<br />

are there any parallels you can<br />

draw between kiteboarding and<br />

speed riding?<br />

Lessons learned in stability from<br />

Ozone’s snow and water kites have<br />

been applied to our first speed kite,<br />

the Bullet. As a general rule, if it is<br />

strong enough to kite, then it’s too<br />

strong to speed ride most of the<br />

time. Speed riding requires much<br />

lighter wind conditions.<br />

Is this only done on snow?<br />

Officially, yes, although it is<br />

possible to foot launch the wings<br />

in some areas, if the pilot is<br />

experienced enough.<br />

What skills are needed to check<br />

out this sport?<br />

You should be an intermediate to<br />

advanced skier, and willing to spend<br />

the time to progress slowly with the<br />

flying part of it! Rushing into it without<br />

lessons or training will almost certainly<br />

lead to serious injury. Flying sports are<br />

extremely unforgiving.<br />

What are the ideal conditions/<br />

terrain for speed riding?<br />

Wide open, low angle snow slopes to<br />

begin with, and as pilots progress,<br />

they may choose to fly steeper<br />

terrain. Most importantly – neVeR<br />

FLY AROUnD PeOPLe. It is<br />

extremely important to not speed<br />

ride in populated areas or in any area<br />

with obstacles, whether they be<br />

powerlines or skiers.<br />

What do you think is the growth<br />

potential of this sport?<br />

It’s hard to say, given that it may<br />

appeal to a few of the 35 million<br />

skiers on the planet-but I would be<br />

surprised if the numbers pass 2000<br />

pilots in 2007, and 4000 in 2008,<br />

worldwide. It’s still a fringe sport<br />

that requires a good site, solid skills,<br />

and weather.<br />

Ozone just launched its first<br />

speed riding wing, the Bullet. Can<br />

it also be used for snowkiting/<br />

landboarding?<br />

no. It’s not a traction kite, and it can’t<br />

be used in water.<br />

are there any other applications for<br />

this type of kite/wing?<br />

So far, everyone is still learning to fly<br />

these things well on snow. Since it’s<br />

such a new sport, we haven’t even<br />

begun to see what is possible.<br />

thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com<br />

Resources<br />

Rob Whittall fine tunes the Bullet.<br />

Matt and Rob share a Kodak moment on the mountaintop.<br />

<strong>The</strong> French Alps provide unlimited opportunities for this new sport.<br />

• ulrichprinz.com/air/speed/<br />

• acro-base.com/fr/calendrier/calendrier.htm<br />

• flyaboveall.com/speedflying/index.htm<br />

• flyozone.com/paragliders/en/products/gliders/<br />

bullet/speed-flying/


411<br />

Ben’s riding style and passion is getting the attention of the surfing world. Lens Ben Kotke<br />

sLINGsHOt teaMs uP WItH surF WOrLD<br />

Leading surf travel company World Surfaris has joined Slingshot’s Ben Wilson’s crusade<br />

to get the attention of the surfing world. Join Ben on a series of expedition trips to kite<br />

and surf many of the surfing world’s coveted destinations including the Caroline Islands,<br />

New Caledonia, the Mentawais, Tonga, Fiji and even snowkiting in New Zealand. See<br />

worldsurfaris.com for more info. Ben is also working with legendary surfboard shaper<br />

Darren ‘DHD’ Handley whose fans including world re-nowned surfers like Mick Fanning.<br />

Darren shares Ben’s vision of kiting in the waves and will be working closely with Slingshot<br />

on Ben’s signature models, to be released early to mid ‘07. See basesurfboards.com or<br />

sskiteboarding.com for more info.<br />

Some of the world’s largest lagoons and best surf can be found in the Tuamotu. Lens Tim McKenna<br />

DIsCOVer tHe tuaMOtu atOLLs bY bOat<br />

Live2kite has designed an unforgettable wave and kitesurfing trip of the Tuatmotu Atolls, 84<br />

miles northeast of Tahiti. Available starting this May to September, eight lucky kiters per trip<br />

will explore this 87 island chain in a luxury, 64-foot power boat. If you are looking for killer<br />

wave and kite conditions, this is the one trip you need to check out. www.live2kite.com<br />

Smack Smack<br />

Get style<br />

pointers and<br />

learn the latest<br />

wakestyle moves<br />

by watching <strong>The</strong><br />

Truth, the new<br />

Liquid Force<br />

Wakeboarding<br />

Film. It was just<br />

awarded Best<br />

Core Film, Best<br />

Cinematography<br />

and Best Soundtrack at the X-Dance<br />

Awards this January in Salt Lake City,<br />

Utah. X-Dance is an annual Film Festival<br />

and celebration which showcases the<br />

year’s top action sport films along with<br />

cutting-edge bands, DJs and key figures<br />

from the entertainment industry. LF<br />

Founder Tony Finn was there to receive<br />

the award along with LF Films Guru<br />

Justin Stephens. Get your DVD at your<br />

local LF dealer or www.liquidforce.com<br />

Mystickiteboarding.com has updated their<br />

website to include their entire new 2007<br />

product line up consisting of over 150<br />

products made specifically to withstand<br />

the rigors of kiteboarding. From wetsuits<br />

to lycras to harnesses to accessories, you<br />

will be hard-pressed to keep your wish list<br />

under control.<br />

If you’re in the North Carolina area, be<br />

sure to check out Flexifoil USA’s latest<br />

demo center, stocked with the complete<br />

Flexifoil Kiteboarding and traction line for<br />

you to try before you buy. Wind Toys is a<br />

brand new Extreme Kite Store located on<br />

Topsail Island, which is only a short drive<br />

from Wilmington, NC. This location allows<br />

riding in all wind conditions with 26 miles<br />

of wide open beach and perfect waves for<br />

epic down-winders and endless flat-water<br />

riding in the Sound. <strong>The</strong>se guys are also<br />

land traction specialists, with some great<br />

hard packed beaches for landboarding and<br />

buggying. www.windtoysusa.com<br />

Photo courtesy SCK<br />

South Coast<br />

Kiteboarding<br />

recently<br />

partnered<br />

with<br />

Momentum<br />

Surfshop<br />

in Corpus<br />

Christi, TX.<br />

Momentum Surfshop is a full-service<br />

surf shop located in Port Aransas and<br />

will be stocking kiteboarding gear. www.<br />

southcoastkiteboarding.com for more info.<br />

Photo courtesy Liquid Force<br />

Mauricio shows off his Rawson. Lens Tracy Kraft<br />

NeW PartNersHIPs FOr LIquID FOrCe<br />

Liquid Force Kiteboarding is proud to announce the addition of Mauricio Abreu and legendary<br />

surfboard shaper Pat Rawson to their team. Maui’s Kite Beach icon has been riding the new LF<br />

Havoc kites as well as prototypes of his new pro model board and bindings that will ready for<br />

the public by 2008. Also signing on with LF is Legendary North Shore shaper Pat Rawson. Pat<br />

will be working on four new LF 2008 kite surfboards with LF team riders Davey Blair, Moehau<br />

Goold, Jason Slezak and Mauricio Abreu. For more info, listen to the Asnews.net podcast at<br />

asnewswire.com/podcasts/podcast64.mp3<br />

<strong>The</strong> Pismo event always serves up a good time for all. Lens Kinsley Wong<br />

5tH aNNuaL KIteXPO DeMO eVeNt<br />

Don’t miss your opportunity to see and test all the newest gear for free at the 5th Annual<br />

KiteXpo, May 19 and 20 in Pismo Beach, California. Brought to you by xtremebigair.com, <strong>The</strong><br />

<strong>Kiteboarder</strong> and kiteforum.com, you only need to be an intermediate level rider to participate.<br />

Come join the festivities and don’t forget to stock up on raffle tickets for cool swag giveaways<br />

from your favorite brands. See xtremebigair.com/kitexpo for the latest info.<br />

tilmann Heinig from Westerhever,<br />

Germany is leading the pack in the<br />

2007 GPS-Kitesurfing speed rankings,<br />

clocking an average speed of 48.3<br />

knots on his stock, 9m Caution Answer.<br />

Heinig is beating out the leading-ranked<br />

windsurfer Dave White, whose fastest for<br />

cumulative average speed so far is 46.2<br />

knots. <strong>The</strong> current world speed record of<br />

48.7 knots is held by windsurfer Finian<br />

Maynard from the BVIs. See www.gpskitesurfing.com<br />

for the current rankings.<br />

Location: Los Barrilles/Photo courtesy of Vela<br />

Ikiteurf.com is now providing daily<br />

wind and weather forecasts for Baja,<br />

Mexico including Ventana, Los Barilles,<br />

El Sergento and Cabo Pulmo/La Ribera.<br />

Mike Godsey has been forecasting for<br />

the West Coast for over 15 years, but<br />

the Sea or Cortez is new to him so he<br />

asks us to bear with him. We’re just<br />

stoked that the service is being offered<br />

at http://www.iwindsurf.com/travel.<br />

iws?genID=22. If you are using this<br />

service, email mike@iwindsurf.com. If<br />

they hear from enough people, they will<br />

make this a yearly Baja service.<br />

effective January 23, all travelers will<br />

be required to hold a valid passport to<br />

enter the United States by air. <strong>The</strong> new<br />

passport requirement means that all<br />

travelers, including U.S. citizens, who<br />

are departing the U.S. and intend to reenter<br />

the United States are required to<br />

hold a valid passport upon departure.<br />

This requirement also applies when<br />

traveling from Canada, Mexico, Central<br />

and South America, the Caribbean and<br />

Bermuda. It can take up to six weeks to<br />

process a passport so unless you want<br />

to pay rush fees, plan ahead!<br />

Starting this March, the Kite House<br />

will be working with Cabrinha’s<br />

Cameron Dietrich to offer “Go with a<br />

Pro” trips in Maui. <strong>The</strong> trips include<br />

accommodations, gear and great riding<br />

spots with space for only three riders<br />

max per week. www.thekitehouse.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com


tIPs FrOM aN OG<br />

By Marina Chang Lens Ed Dubois<br />

Name: Chris Glazier<br />

Profession: Engineer<br />

age: 58<br />

Hood: Vancouver, BC<br />

Hero: Robby Naish<br />

ride: Naish Thorn 131<br />

Claim: have kitesurfed over<br />

100 days in each of the last<br />

three years.<br />

Shouts: Have fun out there!<br />

rOOtS: When I windsurfed, that’s all<br />

I ever wanted to do. <strong>The</strong>n one day in Maui<br />

in 1999 I saw a kitesurfer. It looked like fun<br />

so I took kiting lessons with my buddies.<br />

Of course nobody knew what they were<br />

doing back then; our instructors couldn’t<br />

even stay upwind! I bought my first kite,<br />

a Wipika 5.0. Now, 24 kites later, I am still<br />

having a hoot.<br />

FaVOrIte SPOt: <strong>The</strong> best spot<br />

to kite is always with your friends. I like<br />

Squamish, BC, Canada. It has the best flat<br />

water kiting with steady reliable wind and<br />

a great group of kiters.<br />

SYSteM: I used to ride Ravens, but<br />

this year, have a quiver of new Boxer SLE<br />

kites. <strong>The</strong>y sure make kiteloops easier!<br />

Chris boosts some air in Squamish.<br />

C H r I S G L a z I e r t I P S .<br />

1. Be supportive and helpful with beginners.<br />

We were all there once.<br />

2. Wear a good drysuit or wetsuit in cold<br />

water. Hypothermia can be a real risk.<br />

3. Buy good gear. newer kites are a lot better<br />

than older models and they really do help<br />

make you a better rider.<br />

4. Fix your equipment before it gets windy.<br />

When a windy day finally arrives, don’t<br />

show up at the beach with tangled lines<br />

from your last session. Be safe.<br />

5. If you’re interested in kiting in Canada,<br />

skypilotkiteboarding.com is a great resource.<br />

It’s not<br />

too early<br />

to start<br />

thinking<br />

about<br />

November<br />

and<br />

December<br />

Smack<br />

Fleixeiras, NE Brazil Lens Karen<br />

Beber Futernick<br />

travel to the incredible kite-Mecca of Brazil!<br />

Ozone travel Kiteboarding offers world-class<br />

service, a wide selection of kiter-friendly<br />

accommodations and custom kite safaris to<br />

northeast Brazil. Space fills up very quickly,<br />

and airfares are now at the lowest they will<br />

be, so check your calendar and make your<br />

plans now. If you’re thinking about where to<br />

travel this summer, Ozone is also offering<br />

tours of Greece with the famous, funny<br />

and friendly Dimitri Maramenides as well<br />

as packages to the always fun and reliable<br />

<strong>Cabarete</strong>! Contact karen@ozonetravel.<br />

com for tour info and air specials<br />

including last minute travel deals for air,<br />

lodging and instruction.<br />

Litewave Designs welcomes 21-year-old<br />

Mike Bradley to its team. Mike just won<br />

the best wave category at the Jupiter Kite<br />

Invasion. He is currently sponsored by<br />

Viking but will soon be riding Litewave’s<br />

new 5’8” surf-shape directional. Dave’s new<br />

surf-specific kiteboard is a quad fin, concave<br />

bottom epoxy semi-custom that will be<br />

available next month. You can test the new<br />

board along with all the new 07 products<br />

from Litewave and Globe Kites at one of<br />

Dave’s many demos happening this spring<br />

and summer. www.litewavedesisgns.com<br />

to Cross the<br />

Moon was an<br />

expedition in<br />

January that<br />

attempted<br />

to cross 375<br />

miles in North<br />

Dakota to raise<br />

awareness<br />

Lens freesolophotography.com<br />

for the state’s<br />

wind energy<br />

resources. Sam Salwei and Jason Magness<br />

departed southbound from the Canadian<br />

border on New Year’s Day and finished<br />

up in mid-January. Although they didn’t<br />

make it to South Dakota, the two crossed<br />

over 230 miles, mostly under kite power. A<br />

support crew led by Eric Byers and Jason<br />

Schaefer were able to speak thousands of<br />

locals about snowkiting and North Dakota’s<br />

vast potential to make electricity via wind<br />

power. Another crossing will be attempted<br />

in 2008, hopefully with more snow.<br />

www.2xtm.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com


411<br />

KIte-LINe LauNCHes MaIL-OrDer DeMO PrOGraM<br />

Take the guessing out of gear purchasing and demo before<br />

you try. In 2007 Kite-Line.Com is going the extra mile for<br />

its customers by offering a demo program for the latest<br />

kites, and soon boards, from all major manufacturers.<br />

Customers can select the appropriate kite model and<br />

size for a fee of $199 which includes a two-week demo.<br />

Demos are shipped free of charge via FedEX ground. If<br />

you decide to purchase the kite then the entire $199 will<br />

be refunded back to you. It doesn’t get any better than<br />

that. Visit kite-line.com for complete info.<br />

DCbOarDz stICKer CONtest<br />

Post a DCboardz sticker in the most original place you can<br />

think of and take a picture of it. <strong>The</strong>n upload the image to<br />

kitescoop.com for a chance to win a cool t-shirt and $250 gift<br />

certificate good toward any custom DC kiteboard or surfboard!<br />

A select group of finalists will be chosen and the winner will<br />

be picked by vote on kitescoop.com. Contest ends March 31.<br />

Need Stickers? Contact dereck@dcboardz.com<br />

VIDEO REVIEWS<br />

INSaNe rOaD GaP<br />

Needing a little adrenalin?<br />

This video clip will throw<br />

chills down your spine and<br />

have you hitting your replay<br />

button! Watch as this snowkiter gaps from<br />

snow bank to snow bank with cars driving<br />

underneath. http://www.cherrytap.com/<br />

stashentry.php?stashId=390049<br />

HaDLOW at<br />

CaPe VerDe<br />

From 720s and mobes to<br />

head high surf and kiteloops,<br />

Aaron Hadlow throws down<br />

every trick in the book in this clip. http://www.<br />

youtube.com/watch?v=GHfbrI38YIU&mode=r<br />

elated&search=<br />

ePIC MaUI SeSSIONS<br />

Elliot Leboe is at again with<br />

his new DVD, Epic Maui<br />

Sessions. <strong>The</strong> name speaks<br />

for itself: surfing, windsurfing,<br />

kiteboarding and more! http://wwwaclproduct<br />

ions.com/videos/eMSFinalaCLtrailerMed.mov<br />

aNDre PHILLIP PrOMO VIDeO<br />

ACL Productions and Andre Phillip team up<br />

to deliver some insane kiteboarding clips. I<br />

wonder how his knees feel after a day of<br />

riding? http://wwwaclproductions.com/videos/<br />

dre/Dremedium.mov<br />

By Zach Kleppe<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were no new DVDs at press time, so we decided to point you in the direction of some<br />

FREE clips to keep you video junkies happy. <strong>The</strong>re are a bunch coming down the line so be<br />

sure to stop by www.thekiteboarder.com/catalog for the latest DVD releases.<br />

JUPIter KIte INVaSION<br />

Kiteflix.com put together this cool little clip of<br />

the 2007 Jupiter Kite Invasion.<br />

http://www.kiteflix.com<br />

LeNt10 GOING BIG!<br />

You think your huevos are<br />

big? Check out this insane<br />

video clip of Ruben Lenten<br />

throwing HUGE insane<br />

kiteloops at kitecinima.com. http://www.<br />

kitecinema.com/len10/Len10-StormSjees-<br />

480p.mov<br />

SPeeD rIDING tHe eIGer<br />

This quite possibly will be<br />

the craziest video clip you<br />

will ever see. If you read<br />

our Launch feature about<br />

Speed Riding, then you<br />

won’t want to miss this clip.<br />

Be prepared to drop your jaw! http://www.<br />

alpinist.com/doc/aLP18/eiger_skiing<br />

GLK: tHe MOVIe<br />

Brian Elkus from Michigan<br />

put this together of him<br />

and his crew tearing up the<br />

Great Lakes. If you are sick<br />

of the same eight guys in<br />

every DVD, be sure to check out their clip.<br />

http://www.greatlakeskiteboarding.com/<br />

video/GLK2006/media.html<br />

Smack<br />

<strong>The</strong> new training DVD Getting School’d<br />

will be released this spring/summer.<br />

This DVD will be available on disc or via<br />

download with a kite support hotline to<br />

answer any questions. <strong>The</strong> website will<br />

be highly interactive with a download<br />

section for tricks and travel footage. See<br />

kiteboardtraining.com for more info.<br />

Location Sardinia Lens Jessie Hassell<br />

Starting this May, Kite Adventures is<br />

offering tours to Sardinia, the biggest island<br />

off the coast of Italy. Famous for its blue<br />

Mediterranean waters, authentic food and<br />

beautiful people, the tour begins in Cagliari<br />

in the south, where you can find 280-300<br />

windy days every year (15-30 knots). <strong>The</strong>re<br />

are more than six beaches to kite along<br />

and KA scouted out each spot to find the<br />

best conditions for waves, flat water and<br />

pure desolate beaches. <strong>The</strong> typical wind<br />

here is called the Scirocco from the south<br />

and southeast; it blows between 18 and 24<br />

knots. It comes from the desert of Libya and<br />

Tunisia. <strong>The</strong> locals call it the perfect wind,<br />

like a fan. KA has two very knowledgeable<br />

guides who have been living in Sardinia<br />

for most of their kiting careers. <strong>The</strong>y will<br />

handle all of the arrangements, support and<br />

are also keyed into the hottest parties in<br />

town, which there are no shortage of!<br />

www.kiteadventures.com<br />

Location: Hatteras Lens Jeoffrey Nathan<br />

Catch up with the Flexifoil USa team as<br />

they hit your local beaches this spring on<br />

a massive road trip from the East to West<br />

Coast. Come ride and share the stoke<br />

with professional riders Aaron Hadlow,<br />

Billy Parker, and Peter Trow. <strong>The</strong>y will be<br />

demoing all of the latest ‘07 Flexifoil kites,<br />

boards, and land traction equipment. Do<br />

not hesitate to ask for some free swag<br />

and get yourself some new threads! www.<br />

flexifoilusa.com for schedules, travel<br />

stories, photos, and videos.<br />

0 thekiteboarder.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com


sHOP taLK<br />

COLOraDO KIte FOrCe<br />

Name: Anton Rainold - Owner<br />

Nickname: Antizel<br />

age: 38<br />

Contact: coloradokiteforce.com<br />

Location: Summit County, CO, Dillon<br />

Reservoir, Sanitarium Riding<br />

riding for how long: 7 years<br />

What is the kiteboarding scene like at the<br />

Sanitarium?<br />

It has doubled every year in the past four years.<br />

<strong>The</strong> riding is great for all levels. And we are<br />

proud of our terrain park!<br />

How does your shop support and help the<br />

kiteboarding community?<br />

Our primary goal is to support the growth of<br />

this sport. We want to make it safer and more<br />

fun for all. We have a specific area that we<br />

groom for teaching as well as a launch area for<br />

the general public.<br />

any issues with access or usage rights?<br />

<strong>The</strong> kite area is actually private, so having a<br />

permit to operate my business is essential. But<br />

anyone is welcome to come out and ride.<br />

Where do you draw riders from?<br />

Most of our riders are from the Front Range<br />

or Denver area, but it has also become a<br />

destination for snowkiters all over. <strong>The</strong>re are a<br />

lot of ski resorts and other activities in the area,<br />

which is a bonus for vacationing here.<br />

What tips can you offer experienced kiters<br />

who want to kite at the Sanitarium?<br />

Don’t be afraid to explore the whole reservoir.<br />

By Zach Kleppe<br />

Anton hits the rails at his terrain park. Lens Karen Tone<br />

Forum dork<br />

By James Brown<br />

Lens: Rory Monro<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is no need to crowd the launch and<br />

lesson area. Check out the forum on our<br />

website to hook up with other riders.<br />

What is the best way for people to check<br />

the forecast and current conditions for the<br />

Sanitarium?<br />

Our best conditions are sunny, high-pressure<br />

days with steady thermal winds from the north<br />

at 10-15 mph. Most websites are unreliable<br />

at predicting our mountain weather, but<br />

Wunderground.com seems to be all right. Or,<br />

just call us for current conditions…everyone<br />

else does!<br />

Where do you think the industry is headed<br />

in the future?<br />

Snowkiting still has a long way to go. <strong>The</strong>re<br />

are certainly areas that are untapped and once<br />

they are, it has the potential to go mainstream.<br />

I look at it the same way snowboarding got<br />

its start. It is going to be ReALLY big in a few<br />

more years.<br />

What brands are you carrying this season?<br />

In no particular order: Ozone, Slingshot, HQ,<br />

Cabrinha, Peter Lynn, DaKine, 661, Ultra nectar,<br />

Zeal optics, Unity Snowboards and more!<br />

WeatHer NOW<br />

If you haven’t checked out weatherunderground.com<br />

or ikitesurf.com in awhile, be sure to stop by and get<br />

all the latest weather information as it breaks. Both<br />

have great wind sensors and forecasts on kiteboarding<br />

spots around the world. <strong>The</strong>y even have options to<br />

sync wind alerts to your mobile phone.<br />

If you find a cool site you want to submit, email zach@thekiteboarder.com<br />

Neil, Ian and Hamish at<br />

Vgames’06<br />

Smack<br />

the 07 Velocity<br />

Games in Corpus<br />

Christi, Texas, is<br />

back on -- we<br />

think! Tentatively<br />

scheduled for<br />

May 11-13, final<br />

planning was in<br />

the works as of press time. Check out www.<br />

velocitygames.us for the latest.<br />

Speaking of competitions, word has it<br />

that one, possibly two new competitions<br />

will be held in the US this year. Bookmark<br />

www.thekiteboarder.com for your<br />

daily dose of the latest breaking global<br />

kiteboarding news.<br />

Thanks to a new service by Brightcove,<br />

an awesome online video distribution<br />

company, Fat Sand is now able to offer<br />

downloads of their full DVDs. Previous<br />

DVDs were available for download through<br />

Total Vid, but Fat Sand can now offer both<br />

a 7- day rental for $3.95 and an unlimited<br />

purchase at the trial price of $23.95. <strong>The</strong>y’re<br />

kicking this off with Progression: Advanced,<br />

but over the next few weeks they’ll add<br />

downloads for Beginner and Intermediate,<br />

across all the languages offered on the<br />

DVD. www.fatsand.com<br />

COrreCtION: In the Jan/Feb07 issue of<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong>, the photo for the 2007<br />

Tampa Bay Kitemasters was taken by<br />

Oxana Blagushyna, not Chris Moore. We<br />

apologize for not crediting Oxana and<br />

thank her for her contribution.<br />

Do you need a place to sell your used gear or maybe chat up some other<br />

kiteboarders around the world? kitetrader.com offers new and used equipment<br />

for kiteboarders to review, buy and sell.<br />

Lens Oxana Blagushyna<br />

ONLINe Gear reVIeW<br />

I was cruising kite sites and found a 2007<br />

online gear review hosted on kite-surf.com.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y have a cool rating scale for 2007<br />

equipment under the kite review section.<br />

Don’t believe everything you read, but this is<br />

a great place to get some feedback.<br />

LIVE INTERVIEWS WITH<br />

DESIGNERS, PRO-RIDERS,<br />

INDUSTRY LEADERS AND<br />

KITE PERSONALITIES<br />

PODcAST #65:<br />

Caution Kites:<br />

Get to know the Caution Boys, the new<br />

07 line up and the weirdest thing that<br />

ever got caught in their beards.<br />

ASK QUESTIONS REAL-TIME<br />

DURING THE SHOW OR<br />

POST THEM ON YOUR<br />

LOcAL FORUM<br />

PODcAST #64:<br />

MauriCio aBreu<br />

Find out about why kiteboarding pioneer<br />

Mauricio left Wipika after 9 years with<br />

the brand and joined Liquid Force..<br />

TEcH OUT WITH THE R&D<br />

TEAM AS THEY ROLL OUT<br />

NEW GEAR.<br />

PODcAST #63:<br />

JeFF toBias<br />

Live from australia, asnews.net was the<br />

first to bring you info on slingshot’s new<br />

turbo 2 with pro-rider Jeff tobias.<br />

Live broadcasts every Thursday at<br />

http://cherrytap.com/lounge.php?l=1293<br />

Post show available every Friday at<br />

ASnews.net and <strong>The</strong><strong>Kiteboarder</strong>.com<br />

Got a suggestion? Email info@theringmedia.com<br />

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Rider: Remi Meum Lens: Alfredo Escobar<br />

LETTERS<br />

What Our<br />

Readers<br />

Have To Say<br />

Olympic Opportunities!<br />

Dear Editor:<br />

I had my first kiteboarding lesson, and<br />

I’m hooked! Tony Brady of Zero Gravity<br />

gave me a quick one while on vacation<br />

in Corpus Christi, and I can’t wait for the<br />

next one. I put my house up for sale and<br />

as soon as it closes, I’m moving to Corpus.<br />

When Tony and I talked, he mentioned that<br />

kiteboarding is the fastest growing sport in<br />

the world, and we talked about it becoming<br />

an Olympic sport. Have you heard any<br />

chatter about that? I know snowboarding<br />

was the biggest hit in Turin, Italy. I am sure<br />

kiteboarding would be even bigger. Let me<br />

know what you hear.<br />

Thanks!<br />

Varian T Criser<br />

Carson City, Nevada<br />

Welcome to your new found addiction!<br />

Be sure to look us up when you finally<br />

make it to Corpus. We would love to see<br />

kiteboarding become an Olympic sport.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re have been a few stories about the<br />

idea, but no action YET! Let’s keep our<br />

fingers crossed –Ed.<br />

An 11-year-Old’s Thoughts<br />

on Kiteboarding<br />

Dear Editor:<br />

<strong>The</strong> reason I like kiteboarding is it puts<br />

everything together. I have always loved<br />

the water and air, but couldn’t put them<br />

together. I have tried everything--even<br />

cannonballs, but they didn’t seem fun. I<br />

even tried diving. I thought hang gliding<br />

and swimming were my dreams, and then<br />

I finally saw kiteboarding. Now all I dream<br />

about is kiteboarding. I like the thrill of the<br />

wind. I can’t believe people go so high.<br />

Well that’s why I love kiteboarding!!!<br />

See you later bro!<br />

Sincerely,<br />

Billy Wade Wiseman<br />

P.S.<br />

I hope someday I will change the world,<br />

just like you bro.<br />

Thanks for your great letter. Make sure to<br />

take this into your class and share your<br />

stoke on kiteboarding with your friends.<br />

Hopefully, we will watch you grow up to<br />

do great things and boost big airs—Ed.<br />

Letter Of <strong>The</strong> Month<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> Bible<br />

Dear Editor:<br />

First off, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> is the<br />

standard in kite media, it’s like a bible<br />

in our house and we are stoked for the<br />

next one.<br />

We can’t thank you guys enough for the<br />

write up a couple issues back on our<br />

college kite club. <strong>The</strong> feedback was sick.<br />

We are putting together the first college<br />

kite competition with Paul Menta and<br />

<strong>The</strong> Kite House this spring break in Key<br />

West. We hope ya’ll can make it. If any<br />

college riders want in or information on<br />

starting a club at their school, hit me up<br />

at sextonmg@eckerd.edu.<br />

Check out our website for more on<br />

collegiate kiteboarding.<br />

RESPECT,<br />

Matt Sexton<br />

TritonKiteboarding.com<br />

We are stoked to hear you love our<br />

magazine! It sounds like you are hooked<br />

up with the right people in Key West.<br />

Please keep in touch and let us know<br />

how we can help support your efforts.<br />

I can’t wait to see the video of your<br />

event—Ed.<br />

Chilling in Minnesota<br />

Dear Editor:<br />

Thank you for your support, and thank<br />

you for the magazines you sent. <strong>The</strong><br />

January issue is sick! I will make sure to<br />

give them to my students. <strong>The</strong>y will be<br />

stoked! It’s so awesome you guys have<br />

respect for the snow.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Kite Freeze in Minnesota has been<br />

postponed due to funds, but we are<br />

still having an expression session on<br />

Lake Swede. It should be good, but our<br />

conditions are holding us back from<br />

being able to drive on the lakes. We are<br />

still going to put out rails and fun boxes.<br />

Thanks again,<br />

Nathan Borer<br />

US Snowkite School<br />

<strong>The</strong> Red Bull, Kite Freeze was the<br />

very first snowkite competition I ever<br />

attended. Sorry to hear the event has<br />

been downsized. <strong>The</strong>re is no doubt in my<br />

mind that snowkiting will snowball—no<br />

pun intended. Keep us in the loop, and<br />

keep up the good work—Ed.<br />

Send your banter, happiness, rants, raves to editor@thekiteboarder.com<br />

24 thekiteboarder.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com 25


COMPETITIONS<br />

Jupiter Comp Goes Off<br />

Words and photo courtesy of Rick Iossi<br />

Jupiter’s reputation for great wind and waves was once again confirmed for a<br />

fourth year at the annual Jupiter Kiteboarding Invasion. Despite bouts of light,<br />

uneven wind on day one which postponed the competition, day two served<br />

up consistent, 15 to 20 mph side shore winds which bumped into the high<br />

20s late. <strong>The</strong> riders ate it up, shredding hard on directionals, twin tips and<br />

surfboards. A high level, intense competition was the order of the day from<br />

both pros and amateurs alike. Special thanks are in order for Jeremy Green,<br />

owner of Jupiter Kiteboarding for all his hard work coordinating and keeping<br />

this event going.<br />

Pro Men: 1. Damien Leroy 2. Dimitri Maramenides 3. Jon Modica<br />

Pro Women: 1. Melissa Gil 2. Morgan Skipperdene 3. Stacey Fonas<br />

Amateur: 1. Packet C. 2. Evan Netsch 3. Brandon Pelly<br />

Youth: 1. Eric Merill 2. Matt Collins<br />

Third Annual Speed Ranking Contest<br />

Words and photo courtesy of Rachael Miller<br />

<strong>The</strong> Stormboarding Speed Ranking contest is blazing on with riders from<br />

all over the world. Speeds are recorded as top speeds during a snowkite<br />

session from a GPS attached to the rider. Early conditions have favored<br />

riders in Minnesota, but with mid-season conditions improving worldwide,<br />

we are sure to see high speeds from all over. Past winners have gone nearly<br />

70mph under power of kites alone. Prizes from Peter Lynn, Ozone, Dakine,<br />

Ultra Nectar and Himaya are awarded weekly with a Scorpion kite going out<br />

to the fastest Peter Lynn rider at the end of the season. This contest is open<br />

to everyone. See the list along with contest rules and specific info on what<br />

kites are used, what riders have on their feet (skis, boards, skates…) and<br />

their thoughts on how and why they go fast at: www.stormboarding.com<br />

then click on speed ranking.<br />

Jupiter is one of Florida’s best wave riding spots.<br />

05-06 winner Chris Krug displays his winning speed of 69.1mph.


Paul Menta may promote safety while kiteboarding, but that doesn’t<br />

mean he doesn’t take chances every once in a while.<br />

interview with<br />

If a Harley blows by you on your way to check wind at the beach, it<br />

might just be Paul.<br />

PaulMenta<br />

t h e r o a d l e s s t r a v e l e d<br />

By Paul Lang All photos courtesy Paul Menta<br />

In every sport there are people who are criticized<br />

for walking down their own path, causing their true<br />

contributions to be often overlooked. For over a<br />

decade Paul Menta has dedicated his life to traveling<br />

and teaching people to kiteboard. His scraggily, long<br />

hair and signature tattoos perpetuate the image of the<br />

stereotypical beach bum. He may look the part, but he is<br />

also an accomplished businessman, professional chef and<br />

dedicated father.<br />

Paul is the kind of guy who doesn’t feel he has a need to<br />

explain his every action. He was among the first to begin<br />

kiteboarding in the United States. Instead of becoming a hot<br />

shot pro, he channeled his efforts into developing the first<br />

structured instructional programs in our sport. Paul loves<br />

kiteboarding as much as any of us. He told me he gets just as<br />

excited when he goes out now, as he did ten years ago. Over<br />

the years, he has taken strong stances on safety issues and<br />

has a reputation for coming off to some people as arrogant.<br />

Whatever your opinion of Paul is, you cannot deny that he is<br />

a kiteboarding pioneer.<br />

28 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 29


Few people realize that you were a<br />

pioneer in this sport. How did you get<br />

involved in kiteboarding?<br />

I did a little land kiting in 1988 and kited on a<br />

skateboard in ‘89, but my first real taste was<br />

on a snowboard in ‘92. It was so unreal riding<br />

a foil kite, getting smashed and going really<br />

fast. After that I tried the Kite Ski, which was<br />

cool but very hard; going upwind wasn’t really<br />

an option. At the time, I was really into<br />

wakeboarding, so I tried a foil kite with a<br />

wakeboard. That didn’t work out so well, but I<br />

got some cool rides and very unintentional air.<br />

Everything changed when Bruno Legaignoux<br />

produced his first inflatable kite. At that point,<br />

I was convinced that the sport would work. I<br />

laugh now when I think back because everyone<br />

told me inflatable kites would never last.<br />

Who were some of the people learning to<br />

kiteboard at the same time you were?<br />

Ty Lucket, Jason Slezak and Jamie Herraiz<br />

were a couple of the guys learning at the<br />

same time I was. I learned from guys like<br />

Lou Wainman, Elliot Leboe, Max Bo and<br />

Flash Austin. <strong>The</strong>se guys were just starting<br />

to push the limits of the sport.<br />

What was it like learning to kiteboard<br />

back then?<br />

It was like trying to learn to drive a tractor trailer<br />

instead of a car when you were 15 -- hard<br />

and painful! <strong>The</strong> directions that came with the<br />

kite were written in French, and I don’t speak<br />

French. I didn’t even know how to launch the<br />

kite. I launched it like a ram air, straight downwind.<br />

I remember one particular launch with<br />

my friend Carl, who asked, “Are you sure?” before<br />

he let the kite go. I said yes, and was drug<br />

so hard I lost my shorts, ended up with sand<br />

burns on my knees, balls, and face, and suffered<br />

a huge blow to my pride. Thinking about<br />

it now, I believe being humbled like that taught<br />

me some serious respect for the sport and has<br />

kept me alive.<br />

What inspired you to develop a kiteboarding<br />

instructional program?<br />

I knew that kiteboarding was such an unreal<br />

sport, but man, you could kill yourself trying<br />

to figure it out. I learned by trial and error,<br />

well, mostly error! I started introducing<br />

other people to the sport and found a teaching<br />

pattern that seemed to work the best. I<br />

developed a progression program based on<br />

the steps to learn the sport and then made<br />

adjustments to the program daily. This was<br />

at a time when the only other people kiteboarding<br />

were getting good at it, but not<br />

sharing many secrets. Nobody really knew<br />

what they were doing. <strong>The</strong>re were no actual<br />

schools until about 1997. After some time, I<br />

wrote everything down and created a book. I<br />

have since rewritten it seven times.<br />

Paul spends a lot of time helping to promote the sport of<br />

kiteboarding as a whole.<br />

“<br />

at that point, I was convinced that the sport would<br />

work. I laugh now when I think back because everyone<br />

told me inflatable kites would never last.<br />

Paul’s best friend, travel partner and<br />

inspiration, his son Paul J. Menta IV.<br />

“<br />

Paul’s son scrounges up a healthy seafood<br />

snack in the Caribbean.<br />

Why do you think there are still no<br />

widely accepted standards in kiteboarding<br />

instruction?<br />

Money and ego. I feel knowledge should not<br />

come at a cost. You will see what I mean by the<br />

summer. I will offer clinics to new and current<br />

instructors for free. After ten years in the sport,<br />

I want to give back.<br />

You do more than just kiteboard. What<br />

other sports do you do?<br />

I wakeboard, surf, free dive, spearfish, stand up<br />

paddle and anything else I can find to keep me<br />

on or in the water. When I was young, I used<br />

watersports as a way to keep myself out of trouble.<br />

I grew up in Philadelphia where it was very<br />

easy to find trouble as a kid. My family pushed<br />

me into the water at a young age. We traveled<br />

to New Jersey to surf and Maryland to water ski.<br />

I spent all my energy on the water and was too<br />

tired to get into fights on the street. It worked,<br />

and as a result I became very competitive on<br />

the water. I left the city when I was 18 and have<br />

since been on the water full time.<br />

You have led the charge on many trends<br />

and techniques in the sport that have<br />

not been fully embraced. What are some<br />

of the trends you feel strongly about that<br />

have not yet been fully accepted by the<br />

kiteboarding community?<br />

I have lost three good friends to the sport, and<br />

I feel when you are in harsh conditions or learning,<br />

you must wear a helmet. When I ran the<br />

Velocity Games in 2003, I made helmets mandatory.<br />

<strong>The</strong> event helped to change many people’s<br />

ideas about helmets, but most people still do<br />

not wear them. Also, most pro kiters always<br />

rode without kite leashes. <strong>The</strong>re was this perception<br />

that it wasn’t cool to wear one, so I took<br />

a stand. Most riders claimed a leash would twist<br />

up during spins. I called everyone on it; I mean if<br />

you’re so good, then you should be able to spin<br />

both ways. Now it seems like everyone wears<br />

one, but some riders still have that view that a<br />

Few people realize that Paul was one of the first snowkiters in the US.<br />

leash is not cool. Remember, I said inflatable<br />

kites were the future and was laughed at. I<br />

was told four lines were not cool. Now I am<br />

told bow kites are not the future. I always try<br />

to be on the leading edge of the sport, and<br />

sometimes I take a little heat because of it.<br />

What is your involvement with Cabrinha<br />

Kiteboarding?<br />

I am sponsored by Cabrinha and their distributor<br />

Adventure Sports. I help with R&D when<br />

necessary and get to test new products to see<br />

if they work not only for me, but for students<br />

and consumers. Cabrinha is a great company<br />

to be involved with because they really listen<br />

to feedback.<br />

Your movie, Into the air, received mixed<br />

reviews. What do you have to say to the<br />

people within the kite industry who criticized<br />

it?<br />

I say, “YOU’RE WELCOME.” This movie is<br />

helping to bring more people into the sport. It<br />

has been featured in film festivals, theaters,<br />

on television, and has been shown on airlines<br />

as the in-flight entertainment. Into the Air was<br />

never meant for the hardcore kiters. Its purpose<br />

was to show a lifestyle. Now that some<br />

time has gone by, I think some people have relooked<br />

at what they said. When I made Getting<br />

School’d for instruction, everyone laughed at it<br />

until we broke 5000 units in sales.<br />

Do you have any plans for another kiteboarding<br />

video?<br />

Yes. I am almost finished with a high definition<br />

instructional that will be available by download<br />

and on DVD. It’s very detailed and covers both<br />

C-kites and bow kites. It will show someone<br />

learning in a lesson as well.<br />

What’s next for you?<br />

I will be traveling the world with my son to<br />

show him what’s out there and that you can<br />

do anything if you work hard enough. My son<br />

is my best friend and is a true inspiration to<br />

me. We will also be finishing our new Kite<br />

House in the Turks and Caicos, so I will have<br />

another great spot to spend time with friends<br />

and family. I will continue to lead the charge<br />

on new kites and remind people of lessons<br />

learned in the past. We also have the new<br />

instructional video, lessons in the Dominican<br />

Republic, trips to Brazil, the Share the Knowledge<br />

Tour, and I will be doing a few cooking<br />

shows followed by a book on cooking. I am<br />

trying to get more people involved in stand<br />

up paddling and am chasing the world speed<br />

record. As always, I will spread the stoke of<br />

kiteboarding and its lifestyle and try to help<br />

the sport as much as I can for as long as I can.<br />

I truly love this sport!<br />

Paul goofs off with local Jesse Cors.<br />

30 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 31


CLOSEUP<br />

tips<br />

By Brian Caserio Lens Glenn Dubock<br />

Peter Trow turned in his windsurf sail for<br />

a kite in early 1998 and quickly became<br />

the first professional kiteboarder from<br />

California. He applied his hard-charging<br />

and fearless wave riding style directly<br />

to kiteboarding from day one and never<br />

wavered from it. Peter looks upon the<br />

“new” surf-style trend in kiting with<br />

amusement. His kites of choice back in ‘98<br />

were Flexifoil Blades and he continues his<br />

loyalty to that brand by currently being the<br />

West Coast importer and team manager for<br />

Flexifoil USA.<br />

When and where did you start kiteboarding?<br />

I bought my first kite in Maui in 1998 and<br />

spent a summer struggling with it on the<br />

beaches of Santa Barbara. My friends<br />

thought I was crazy.<br />

Known as a wave riding pioneer, why have<br />

you always focused on the waves and do<br />

you ever ride freestyle?<br />

I started kiting so I could catch more<br />

waves. When it’s flat I still enjoy hopping<br />

around but I’ve never focused on the<br />

freestyle aspect of the sport.<br />

Age: 37 Height: 5’7” Weight: 150 lbs Stance: Regular Years kiting: 9 years<br />

Favorite Spots: Jalama Beach, CA; Baja Pacific Coast<br />

Favorite Conditions: 20 knots, side-shore, head high to double overhead or bigger, starboard<br />

tack. But I’ll take whatever I can get.<br />

Favorite Moves: Hitting the lip, front and back wave 360’<br />

Sponsors: Flexifoil, Stretch Boards, Dakine<br />

GEAR<br />

Boards: Stretch directionals, Trow and Mulcoy models; Foilboard Bindings/Straps: Dakine<br />

adjustable vario footstraps Kites: Flexifoil Ion 2 hybrids.<br />

Bars (size and line length): Flexifoil Ion 2 bar, 48cm for all kites bars, 45 and 50cm.<br />

Lines: 25m Harness: Dakine Pyro<br />

What is your opinion on the whole<br />

unhooked/hooked-in and strapped vs.<br />

strapless waveriding controversy?<br />

In my opinion, there really isn’t any<br />

controversy. <strong>The</strong> facts are: there’s no doubt<br />

it’s more difficult to rip on a wave strapless,<br />

and riding hooked in or unhooked is just a<br />

personal preference. <strong>The</strong> reality is if you rip,<br />

you rip. Just enjoy…<br />

What is your perspective on bow kites, and<br />

what do you personally like to ride?<br />

I feel bow or SLE kites are the best thing to<br />

happen to kiteboarding since its beginning<br />

and they have re-energized my enthusiasm<br />

for kiteboarding. <strong>The</strong>y have made it easier<br />

for more people to get involved in the sport<br />

and have made it fun to kite in conditions<br />

that were once out of bounds. I’m riding the<br />

Ion 2s, which are hybrid SLEs. Having the<br />

ability to control the power in the kite has<br />

allowed me to ride with more control in all<br />

conditions.<br />

You have made several DVD’s documenting<br />

your adventures. Do you plan on producing<br />

another DVD?<br />

Learn how to jibe a directional.<br />

Practice following your kite through<br />

turns. This will improve your rhythm<br />

when riding waves.<br />

Become skilled at jumping over<br />

whitewater on the way out. It saves<br />

time when working your way to the<br />

outside.<br />

Share cold beer with others after<br />

a session.<br />

I’ve been shooting a bit over the last year<br />

and have some footage coming out in Elliot’s<br />

new wave film. I’m planning on starting a<br />

new project this year so if it all works out, I<br />

hope to have a new film out for Spring 08.<br />

What is something about you that you do<br />

outside of kiteboarding that most people<br />

wouldn’t know?<br />

I’ve always had real passion for being in or<br />

around the ocean so when I’m not kiting,<br />

I’m usually tow surfing, foil boarding or just<br />

plain surfing. I’m also very keen to share my<br />

enthusiasm for the ocean with others and<br />

have done so through surf, windsurf and<br />

kiteboarding films.<br />

What friends do you ride and train with?<br />

I have the most fun riding with my girlfriend<br />

Ammy Naff, my greatest supporter. It’s<br />

more enjoyable for me to watch her rip a<br />

wave than doing it myself. Also, I enjoy<br />

being on the water with Josh Mulcoy. Josh<br />

and I have different styles but we inspire<br />

each other to take it to the next level. My<br />

own kiting has definitely improved since I<br />

started riding with him.<br />

32 thekiteboarder.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com 33


CLOSEUP<br />

Age: Born in the 70’s! Height: 5’7” Weight: 140 lbs Years kiting: 4 + years<br />

Favorite Spots: <strong>The</strong> Jetty, <strong>The</strong> Klick, Kite Park at the Dam, Australia, the Yucatan<br />

Favorite Conditions: Sunny, warm, and windy<br />

Favorite Moves: Double S-Bend, but I can’t do it. Sponsors: North Kites, Jimmy Lewis Boards,<br />

Dakine, Native Eyewear Competition Placements: What’s that?<br />

GEAR<br />

Boards: Jimmy Lewis customs Bindings: Straps by Jimmy<br />

Kites: North Vegas and the Rebel in the waves<br />

Bars (size and line length): North 5th Element<br />

Harness: Dakine Wahine Waist Harness<br />

By Marina Chang Lens Gregg Gnecco<br />

Tonia Farman makes her home in the Gorge.<br />

She co-founded the Women’s Kiteboarding<br />

Association last year and has been a driving<br />

force behind encouraging more women to get<br />

into and stick with our sport. Her aggressive<br />

yet fluid riding style and can do attitude have<br />

inspired many other women to progress their<br />

own riding levels as well, including me! Tonia’s<br />

infectious smile is hard to miss. It is even bigger<br />

than normal as she prepares to get married this<br />

year to photographer and videographer Gregg<br />

Gnecco. Congratulations Tonia!<br />

When, where and why did you start<br />

kiteboarding?<br />

My friend Chris Wyman, from Slingshot, sent<br />

me a trainer kite. I didn’t really know what<br />

to do with it, so I looked up“kiteboarding<br />

lessons” on the internet and started going to<br />

Kite Nights, put on by <strong>The</strong> Seattle Kitesurfing<br />

Association. After flying that trainer to death, I<br />

got one kite – a 2001 Fuel 8m, which I learned<br />

on and rode in all conditions!<br />

What other sports helped influence<br />

your kiteboarding and what is your<br />

training regiment?<br />

I’m not sure if my other sports significantly<br />

Get involved (even at the smallest<br />

level) to maintain and improve your<br />

local kite beach.<br />

If you’ve never ridden a Jimmy, try<br />

one. Kiteboarding’s never been so fun.<br />

Always keep your gear in your car.<br />

You’ll always get the perfect conditions<br />

the day you forget your gear.<br />

Don’t get caught up in hype – do/ride<br />

what feels right.<br />

Lose the ego and smile more! It’s just<br />

kiteboarding!<br />

influenced my kiteboarding. A lot of it is mental<br />

patience, the ability to remain calm in chaotic<br />

situations, and a ‘just charge it’ attitude.<br />

What riders influence you most?<br />

Watching good wakeboarders rip behind a<br />

boat is so inspiring to do the same with a kite.<br />

Following Jason Slezak snowboard through<br />

waist-deep powder –his smooth style on snow<br />

is just as powerfully engaging as he is on the<br />

water! Watching Ben Wilson surf, Tobias, Chris<br />

Wyman and many un-named individuals who<br />

just love to ride and never take the sport too<br />

seriously.<br />

What do you do off the water to help you on<br />

the water?<br />

Pilates. Seriously – three times a week and<br />

you’ll notice a difference in your kiteboarding,<br />

and your abs!<br />

What is the latest trick you are working on and<br />

how is it going?<br />

Getting into a big wave without getting<br />

worked. Sometimes my legs shake and my<br />

heart pounds when I see a wall approaching<br />

me, but I think it’s both excitement and<br />

anxiety. What I’m learning is that it’s 90%<br />

mental and 10% luck.<br />

Where is your favorite place to ride and why?<br />

<strong>The</strong> endless and remote beaches of Western<br />

Australia, from Lancelin to Margaret River and<br />

everything in between. A close second is the<br />

Oregon Coast, which would be first if it wasn’t<br />

so cold!<br />

What is something about you that you do<br />

outside of kiteboarding that most people<br />

wouldn’t know?<br />

I’m Creative and Marketing lead for a web<br />

development company in Hood River.<br />

Wanna website?<br />

You co-founded the Women’s Kiteboarding<br />

Association. What are the orgs plan for 2007?<br />

In WKA’s first year, we learned that partnering<br />

with retailers and brands to put on events<br />

around the globe was a pipe dream. So, this<br />

year, we will be playing a more facilitative<br />

and supportive role. We are building a new,<br />

comprehensive resource website to link<br />

women to lessons, camps, and gear as well as<br />

putting on beginner clinics to facilitate those<br />

first steps in the sport!<br />

34 thekiteboarder.com<br />

thekiteboarder.com 35


SEND IT<br />

1. Bolstad’s family portrait.<br />

Photo Carol Bolstad<br />

2. KITEs Method Lodge Dominican BBQ.<br />

Photo John Holzall<br />

3. Real Kiteboarding crew hanging in the British<br />

Virgin Islands. Photo Realkiteboarding.com<br />

4. Jessie Hassell and Clinton Bolton chilling<br />

in Brazil. Photo Jessie Hassell<br />

5<br />

6<br />

1<br />

7<br />

R E A D E R S U B M I S S I O N S<br />

4<br />

5. Rocky Chatwell looks like a young Davey<br />

Blair. Photo Ryan Riccitelli<br />

6. Peter Schiebel tunes up the new Answer 2.<br />

Photo Kim Kern<br />

7. South Padre sunset session.<br />

Photo Carol Bolstad<br />

8. Salt on the face is good for the skin.<br />

Photo Ocean Rodeo<br />

8<br />

2<br />

9<br />

3<br />

9. Jesse Cors a.k.a. Hollywood Jesse! Photo<br />

Gerry Smith<br />

10. Best Kiteboarding bikini contest in Brazil.<br />

Photo Gavin Butler<br />

11. Xrated Kiteboarding’s Xtreme<br />

Downwinder winners—Demian Thomas,<br />

Andy Hurdman, Billy Parker and Stacy Fonas.<br />

Photo Gerry Smith<br />

12. eXtreme Hotels “Glam” New Year’s party.<br />

Photo Nikki Ivanoski<br />

13. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> billboard campaign in the<br />

Dominican Republic. Photo Ryan Riccitelli<br />

14. San Diego Kiters Christmas Party.<br />

Photo Sandra Franco<br />

15. Karim Berrada’s snow angel gone bad.<br />

Photo James Brown<br />

16. Tommy Trozera and Paul Eric Paumard at<br />

Tourmaline. Photo Greg Banner<br />

17. Lou Wainman’s new Jimmy Lewis creation;<br />

the Picklfork revisted. Photo Lou Wainman<br />

18. <strong>The</strong> man behind Tweak McCore; Carl<br />

“Los” Preston and his son. Photo Carl Preston<br />

19. James Brown is not afraid to show he is<br />

49% Sweetheart and 51% bitch.<br />

Photo Lance Graham<br />

20. Jeoffrey Nathan’s eco-friendly kite<br />

transportation. Photo Flexifoil<br />

21. Denver Coon and John Romais holding<br />

down the peanut gallery. Photo LiquidForce.com<br />

If you have a photo that you would like<br />

featured in <strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>, please<br />

email ryan@thekiteboarder.com<br />

36 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 37<br />

10<br />

11<br />

12<br />

15<br />

16<br />

17<br />

13<br />

21<br />

18<br />

19<br />

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20


BACKWOODS<br />

Corky Cullen smacks the inside bowl. Photo Greg Banner<br />

catch a wave<br />

TouRmaline, caBy<br />

Paul Lang<br />

San Diego is known as a light-wind town, but it does have excellent surf. Every once in a while we get a<br />

windy day with big swell. When this happens, the wave kiting in San Diego can be truly world-class. One of<br />

the best places to kite in the waves is Tourmaline Surf Park, known as Tourmo to the locals. <strong>The</strong> launch site<br />

is not difficult, but the beach crowds and packs of surfers in the water make this an advanced spot only.<br />

What is the official site name?<br />

Tourmaline Surf Park, San Diego, California.<br />

What is the best time of the year to hit<br />

this spot?<br />

San Diego is a light-wind town, so there<br />

is no time of the year when you can be<br />

guaranteed wind. <strong>The</strong> windiest days are<br />

powered by the fronts that come through<br />

in the winter and spring. In summertime,<br />

expect light wind and small waves.<br />

What is the best internet site to check<br />

the wind?<br />

www.ikitesurf.com has a sensor at<br />

Tourmaline. Wind forecasts are notoriously<br />

bad in San Diego, so most locals carry their<br />

wind pagers wherever they go. <strong>The</strong> rule in<br />

San Diego is that you drop everything and<br />

ride when there is wind, otherwise, you will<br />

probably miss it.<br />

How do I get there?<br />

Tourmaline is located just north of Pacific<br />

Beach in San Diego, at the end of<br />

Tourmaline Street.<br />

What is the usual wind direction?<br />

Tourmaline is best on a north to northwest<br />

wind day. Be cautious if the wind starts<br />

to become offshore late in the day. This is<br />

usually a sure sign that the wind is about to<br />

shut off.<br />

What gear should I be sure to pack?<br />

16 meter or larger is the main kite size for<br />

locals as winds are typically in the 8-12<br />

knot range. Storm driven days can result<br />

in winds that vary from 7 to 14 meter<br />

conditions. In short, bring your big kites,<br />

but you may need a small kite if you are<br />

lucky. A 3/2 full suit will get you through<br />

the winter, and a thermal top or lycra is all<br />

that is needed in the summer.<br />

What conditions should I avoid?<br />

Offshore winds or onshore winds. Do not<br />

ride on holiday summer weekends, no<br />

matter how good it is.<br />

What is the launch/landing like?<br />

Only launch downwind of the pump station.<br />

<strong>The</strong> launch area is a wide sandy beach, but<br />

is not for beginners. Tourmaline is a very<br />

popular place for beachgoers and surfers,<br />

and so is often crowded. When on the<br />

water, do not ride through packs of surfers.<br />

What are some of the best places to eat?<br />

Pacific Beach is full of great places to eat.<br />

Try <strong>The</strong>o’s on Garnet Street for pizza,<br />

sandwiches, and cheap beer. Taco Surf<br />

on Mission Blvd. has great burritos and<br />

Surfside (also on Mission) is great for sushi.<br />

Who are the local schools and shops?<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are no lessons at Tourmo, but there<br />

is no shortage of schools and shops in San<br />

Diego. West Coast Kiteboarding, Manta<br />

Local legend Tommy Trozera drops in at the point. Photo Greg Banner Paul Eric Paumard is known for his big airs and crazy style.<br />

Photo Paul Lang<br />

<strong>Kiteboarder</strong>s take over the beach on a typical windy day. Photo Paul Lang<br />

Wind and Water Sports, Xdream Sportz,<br />

CaliKites, Kite Country.<br />

What is the name of the local association?<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is no active association in San Diego,<br />

but contact any of the shops or schools to<br />

get info, or hang out with local riders.<br />

Where should I stay?<br />

Search the web to find a good deal on a<br />

hotel in San Diego. If you want to be right<br />

by Tourmaline, look for properties in Pacific<br />

Beach. San Diego is a great place to bring<br />

the family because if you get skunked, you<br />

can go to the Zoo, Sea World, or just hang<br />

out on the beach. If you have business<br />

downtown, Tourmaline is only 15-20<br />

minutes away.<br />

What is the nightlife like?<br />

If you want to party, go to Garnet Avenue<br />

in Pacific Beach. You can get yourself into<br />

trouble here any night of the week.<br />

What else is there to do if I get skunked?<br />

Surf, rent a boat, or take the family to all<br />

the San Diego attractions.<br />

Is there anything else I need to know<br />

about riding this spot?<br />

Surfers have been here for a very long<br />

time, and this is their spot first. Do not<br />

ride here if you are a beginner and do not<br />

ride through groups of surfers.<br />

Are there any safety issues or rules I<br />

need to know about?<br />

Always stay clear of surfers in the water.<br />

Follow surf etiquette rules. Do not jibe<br />

onto a wave downwind of someone who<br />

is already on the wave and do not jump<br />

in the waves around people who are<br />

riding them. If you are just riding back<br />

and forth, please stay outside of the<br />

waves. Good days here are rare, so do<br />

not be greedy and do not get in the way<br />

of other riders.<br />

ResouRces<br />

www.pacificbeachonline.com<br />

www.westcoastkiteboarding.com<br />

www.mantawatersports.com<br />

www.xdreamsportz.com<br />

www.calikites.com<br />

www.kitecountry.com<br />

Are there any safety issues or rules I need<br />

to know about?<br />

Only launch downwind of the pump station<br />

and be very aware of beachgoers and<br />

surfers. Do not fly your kite on the beach<br />

and follow surf etiquette rules, even if that<br />

means yielding to a surfer. <strong>The</strong> crowds<br />

make this an advanced spot only, so ride<br />

somewhere else if you are a beginner. Avoid<br />

kiting after a large rain, as Tourmo can<br />

become very polluted due to runoff. Talk to<br />

the locals if you are from out of town.<br />

Are there any interesting bits of trivia<br />

about this spot?<br />

This spot has been officially designated<br />

as a surf park since 1965, so respect those<br />

who came before. Kiting has come very<br />

close to being completely shut down at this<br />

spot, so please kite in a very safe manner.<br />

38 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 39 37


BACKWOODS<br />

What is the official site name?<br />

Pismo Beach, CA which also extends into<br />

the Oceano Dunes.<br />

What is the best time of year to hit<br />

this spot?<br />

March through June you can get six out<br />

of seven days of kiting. <strong>The</strong> rest of the<br />

year, you can get four days out of seven,<br />

but sometimes no wind for a week!<br />

What is the best internet site to check<br />

the wind?<br />

<strong>The</strong> two local schools are your best<br />

resources for weather.<br />

www.CaliforniaKiteboarding.us and<br />

http:// XtremeBigAir.com/WebCams/<br />

How do I get there?<br />

Pismo Beach is a three and a half hour<br />

drive from both Los Angeles and San<br />

Francisco, or, you can fly into San Luis<br />

Obispo (SBP). From the 101, take the 4th<br />

Ave exit. Go to Grand Avenue, head west<br />

Local, Jason Lee, takes off on an inside kicker. Photo Michael Jones<br />

clam capital of the world ResouRces<br />

Pismo Beach, ca<br />

Contributors: Jason Lee and Kinsley Thomas Wong<br />

Pismo Beach has a long, sandy shoreline about 10 miles long. It is the only state beach in California that you<br />

can drive and camp on. <strong>The</strong> riding area stretches through the communities of Pismo, Grover Beach, and Oceano.<br />

<strong>The</strong> beach actually continues for another 10 miles but is not accessible by car. <strong>The</strong> wind typically blows side<br />

on in the 16-25 knot range. <strong>The</strong> water is very shallow for the first 150 feet. <strong>The</strong> waves at this location are beach<br />

break waves so the further you go out, the bigger they can get. Average days serve up two to five-foot waves but<br />

occasionally, especially during the winter and spring, the waves can be eight feet or more. <strong>The</strong> wave interval is<br />

usually about 14 seconds which creates nice kickers in between 150 to 160 feet of flat, butter water.<br />

and it will take you right to the beach.<br />

What is the usual wind direction?<br />

Northwest, which is side-on.<br />

What are the best conditions to<br />

get lucky?<br />

Look for a northwest wind forecast<br />

from 10 to 25 knots with air temperature<br />

below 70F. Typically, the wind lasts the<br />

longest past the second beach on ramp<br />

at Pier Ave.<br />

What conditions should I avoid?<br />

Stormy conditions, and when the beach<br />

is hot the wind will typically block. Also,<br />

big holidays like Memorial Day, and<br />

Independence Day as there are too many<br />

cars and sun worshippers on the beach.<br />

What gear should I be sure to pack?<br />

You can drive on the beach so pack up!<br />

Wind is usually 8-14m conditions. A<br />

wetsuit (minimum 3mm) and warm<br />

clothing is necessary. No need for<br />

booties other than cold water protection.<br />

What is the launch/landing?<br />

<strong>The</strong> beach is wide and sandy so<br />

launching and landing is not a problem.<br />

Be aware of pedestrians and cars<br />

driving on the beach, and watch out<br />

for fishermen. Do not launch or fly<br />

your kite north of the Sea Venture<br />

Restaurant by the pier. During the<br />

Snowy Plover nesting season from<br />

April through September, you can<br />

ride anywhere but are only allowed<br />

to launch/land your kite in the section<br />

from Grand Ave (first on ramp) to<br />

North of the bathroom on Pier Ave<br />

(second on ramp). Beach access is also<br />

available further south by turning left<br />

at the Grand and Dollliver/Pacific Blvd<br />

intersection, at Pier Ave.<br />

Who are the local schools and shops?<br />

California Kiteboarding, Xtreme Big Air<br />

What is the name of the Local<br />

Association?<br />

<strong>The</strong> Central Coast Kiteboarding Association<br />

(CCKA) is not very active but you can find<br />

general info on the area and regulations.<br />

Where should I stay?<br />

You can camp on the beach or stay in one<br />

of the local campgrounds/RV parks. Motel<br />

6 on 4th Ave and the Rose Garden Inn are<br />

popular budget properties, and the Sea<br />

Venture or Mission Inn for more upscale<br />

lodging.<br />

Where are some of the best places to eat?<br />

Umi Sushi on 13th and Grand Ave is a local<br />

favorite after riding. Splash Café by the<br />

pier is famous for their clam chowder. AJ<br />

Spurs and Alex’s BBQ are great for steak<br />

and JDScrambles on Price Street serves up<br />

a mean breakfast. Rosa’s or Giuseppe’s is a<br />

must if you love Italian.<br />

What is the nightlife like?<br />

Grom Ted Hertel cruises the inside butter. Photo Kinsley Thomas Wong<br />

Pismo’s scenic backdrop makes it one of the most beautiful places to<br />

kite on the California coast. Lens Kinsley Thomas Wong<br />

Harry’s in downtown Pismo or Mongo’s<br />

in Grover Beach offer live music but<br />

San Luis Obispo has the best night life as<br />

it’s a college town and has the most bars.<br />

What else is there to do if I get<br />

skunked?<br />

Ride or rent dirt bikes/ATVs, surf,<br />

mountain bike, paraglide, fish, kayak,<br />

wine taste or hike. <strong>The</strong>re is no shortage<br />

of things to do and see in SLO County.<br />

Is there anything else I need to know<br />

about riding this spot?<br />

Some days a 4x4 is required to drive on<br />

the beach. Check the tide. If it is low and<br />

the ramp is clear, most cars will do fine<br />

in the hardpack. A year pass to drive on<br />

the beach is $50 and a daily pass is $5.<br />

Are there any safety issues or rules I<br />

need to know about?<br />

As people can drive on the beach, don’t<br />

leave your bar/lines laid out and keep<br />

Wild man, Kinsley Wong, can be found boosting big<br />

air on any given windy day. Photo Brian Ackerman<br />

classiccalifornia.com<br />

parks.ca.gov/?page_id=595<br />

sanluisobispocounty.com<br />

sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/CCKA<br />

schools<br />

californiakiteboarding.us<br />

xtremebigair.com<br />

your gear by your car when not in use. If<br />

the wind is onshore, use your head and<br />

don’t do tricks too close to the beach.<br />

Refer to the guidelines at the CCKA for<br />

regulations.<br />

Are there any interesting bits of trivia<br />

about this spot?<br />

Scenes from <strong>The</strong> Pirates of the<br />

Caribbean III were filmed about 10<br />

miles down the beach from the kiting<br />

area and much of the set from <strong>The</strong> Ten<br />

Commandments is buried in the Oceano<br />

Dunes. Pismo Beach is also known as<br />

the Clam Capital of the World. <strong>The</strong> city<br />

holds an annual festival every October<br />

with clam chowder competitions<br />

and a clam-themed parade. However,<br />

clamming is now restricted, due to over<br />

clamming in earlier decades.<br />

40 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 41


This overview shot of Greece’s coastline captures the beauty and color of the Aegean.<br />

Athens is a sprawling city where ancient and modern culture meet.<br />

Andy Hurdman shows the Greeks why he is one of the top riders in the US.<br />

By Emi Moreno Lens Ethan Ford<br />

f you have never been, you have to go!” This is what everyone says to you<br />

“ Iwhen you mention Greece. My boyfriend, Andy Hurdman, and I were lucky<br />

enough to travel to this Mediterranean paradise this past July. Andy is a<br />

professional kiteboarder, so for him this was business. I was lucky enough<br />

to tag along to document this once in a lifetime adventure.<br />

42 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 43


<strong>The</strong> fresh seafood and Greek cuisine is something you have to experience for yourself.<br />

Andy braves the 35-40 knot conditions near the Paros Kite Pro Center.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Trip Overseas<br />

After a long flight, we arrived in Athens Greece, tired and hungry. We were<br />

greeted by our guide, Bullis, a very enthusiastic Greek man who is full of<br />

energy, life and love. He took us to our new home away from home for the<br />

next 10 days, the Sofitel Athens, a gorgeous 5-star hotel which was literally<br />

across the street from the airport. After a quick nap and shower we were off<br />

to Bullis’ school, the Nissakia Surf Club, to check out the local kiting spot.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Ferry to Paros<br />

<strong>The</strong> morning after our arrival we met up with the rest of our kiting crew<br />

including Joseph Carneiro, Joel Painter and Nissakia team riders Tattoo<br />

Man (Andrea), Romeo (Agelos) and Lucas. We also had a professional<br />

photographer in tow, Ethan Ford, an American kiter from Boston who<br />

recently moved to Greece.<br />

With only four hours of sleep, we immediately found out that traveling with<br />

a large group in Greece can be a hectic experience. <strong>The</strong>re is only one ferry<br />

per day and ours was scheduled to leave at 6:30 am. With no time to spare,<br />

the bellman from the hotel drove our car stuffed to the gills with gear and<br />

people, as fast as he could following closely behind our crazy guide. Bullis<br />

weaved in and out of traffic on his 250 scooter, driving on the opposite side<br />

Emi gets her ride on at Paros Island.<br />

of the road when necessary and completely ignoring all traffic rules.<br />

With a kiteboard squeezed between his legs and a cigarette in one<br />

hand and a phone in the other, he spastically waved at us to hurry up.<br />

By some good stroke of fate, we made it. Our team was the last to<br />

board the ferry to Paros.<br />

Paros Island<br />

Paros is the third largest island in the Cyclades island chain. Windsurfers<br />

have been flocking to the island for years, accounting for its nickname,<br />

Surfer’s Paradise. It is famous for its white marble, gentle landscapes,<br />

picturesque villages and endless beaches. In July and August the island<br />

is blessed with strong, steady winds.<br />

Our team arrived just in time for the good wind and sunny skies. After<br />

checking in at the Holiday Sun Hotel, we headed just a few blocks down<br />

the road to Pounda Beach to kite, located on the western side of the<br />

island, just opposite Antiparos. Pounda Beach is also home to <strong>The</strong> Paros<br />

Kite Pro Center, host of the PKRA World Tour for the past several years.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Paros Kite Pro Center is an ideal spot for kiters of all levels and has<br />

a wide sandy beach with a nice shallow area for beginners. <strong>The</strong> wind is<br />

usually strong and consistent between 12 to 35 knots.<br />

Our visit was scheduled to be only two days, but was extended<br />

another two because the ferries were cancelled due to the high<br />

winds and rough seas. It was a kiters dream, and we all rode for four<br />

days straight! <strong>The</strong> conditions were extreme; Andy was easily busting<br />

50-foot airs on his 5m and Joseph was throwing powered mobes<br />

on his 7m, awing the beach.<br />

Back in Athens<br />

An eight-hour, smoke-filled ferry ride brought us back to Athens. We<br />

were all tired and in need of a shower and a hot meal, so we headed<br />

back to the Sofitel for some rest and relaxation. <strong>The</strong> extended trip<br />

in Paros threw our tour off schedule; we were actually supposed to<br />

be at our next destination, Crete. We tried to catch an early morning<br />

flight to Crete, but this time fate was not on our side. By the time everyone<br />

arrived at the flight’s gate, the plane was gone. Luckily, there<br />

was wind in Athens, so we all headed back down to Nissakia to kite.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Nissakia Surf Club<br />

<strong>The</strong> next day, <strong>The</strong> Nissakia Surf Club (NSC) and Arnette Sunglasses sponsored<br />

a great weekend event. <strong>The</strong> team helped locals demo kites, answer<br />

questions and showed off their riding for the crowd. <strong>The</strong> NSC is located in<br />

Loutsa, 15.5 miles from the center of Athens. It offers lessons, equipment<br />

and storage facilities for riders. This was Andy’s favorite places to ride. <strong>The</strong><br />

restaurant overlooks a bay-like area with a shallow reef that generates small<br />

wave-like kickers. On the outside, two small islands create an ultimate<br />

flat-water spot between their shores. <strong>The</strong>re is plenty of room for kiters and<br />

windsurfers alike. Andy enjoyed having a captive audience while he showed<br />

everyone why he is nicknamed “the grasshopper”.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Island of Crete<br />

Crete was the last stop on our journey and is the most southerly of the<br />

Greek islands. It is known for its clear blue seas, sandy beaches and glorious<br />

sunshine. After arriving in the port of Chania, the team traveled to the<br />

town of Platanias on the north coast of the island. <strong>The</strong> town of Platanias<br />

bustles with many resorts, restaurants and shops, and is a popular tourist<br />

destination for many Scandinavians. We checked in at the Mylos Little<br />

Palace Hotel, a resort-type establishment with a stylish beachfront pool bar<br />

and full five-star night club, and then walked into town to check it out.<br />

<strong>The</strong> first day, we were greeted with head high shore break and light winds.<br />

Despite the conditions, Andy rigged up his biggest kite, a 16m Waroo. He<br />

charged the shore break and was able to get in a 15-minute session before<br />

calling it a day. Joel also decided to attempt to ride, but his efforts were less<br />

successful. Before even getting his board on, he was toppled over by a<br />

head high wave. He was good a sport and we all enjoyed a good laugh.<br />

<strong>The</strong> next day we took a day trip with some locals to one of the most pristine<br />

kiting spots in Greece named Elafonisi. It took almost two hours on<br />

winding mountain roads to reach it, but the trip was well worth the effort.<br />

<strong>The</strong> sand was pure white and the water was a clear aqua blue. Everyone<br />

rode for hours at this beautiful, hidden oasis frequented by locals but<br />

largely still undiscovered by tourists. After a dream-like session, it was<br />

time to head back to Athens.<br />

Homeward Bound<br />

Once back in Athens, we had two last nights at the Sofitel. A new friend<br />

of ours, Mike and his dog Surf, took us on a “local’s only” tour of historic<br />

downtown Athens. <strong>The</strong> architecture and history of the city is incredible<br />

and should definitely not be missed when visiting Greece.<br />

Andy and I were both sad to leave our new Greek friends and family, but<br />

Florida and the USA were beckoning us to return. Our trip to Greece was<br />

not just another kiteboarding trip. <strong>The</strong> people we met and the places we<br />

kited are memories we will cherish forever. If you are looking for an amazing<br />

adventure, make sure you put Greece at the top of your list!<br />

Emi reads her book while Andy takes a break between sessions.<br />

Climate/Wind<br />

<strong>The</strong> Greek islands tend to have long and dry summers and<br />

mild but rainy winters. <strong>The</strong> Dodecanese, Cyclades and the<br />

Cretan coasts are usually rocked by dry north “meltemi”<br />

wind which blows the strongest between June and September.<br />

For the Aegean Islands of Loutsa and Lefkada, August<br />

typically offers the most consistent winds. <strong>The</strong> mainland<br />

works on a thermal influence, making June and July the best<br />

months.<br />

www.meteo.gr; www.windfinder.com; www.beachreport.gr;<br />

www.noa.gr/forecast/bolam/index.htmforecast.uoa.gr<br />

Currency<br />

Greece has now converted to the euro, which replaces the<br />

former drachma. Changing money from other currencies<br />

into euros can be done at banks or post offices. We found<br />

that using ATMs to directly withdraw euros was the simplest<br />

and easiest way to obtain cash. We don’t recommend using<br />

traveler’s checks; they were hard to cash!<br />

travel<br />

For international guests, the Athens Airport is probably the<br />

cheapest and easiest starting point for your Greek adventure.<br />

Most islands can be reached either by chartered or<br />

Greek domestic flight, or the less expensive ferry ride. Our<br />

advice is to find out which islands you plan on visiting and<br />

then speak with a travel agent to find the best plan. Although<br />

the ferries are frequent and inexpensive, they can be very<br />

long and are filled with cigarette smoke.<br />

resources<br />

www.kiteboard.gr; www.kitesurfing.gr; www.ferries.gr<br />

kite schools<br />

www.nissakia.gr; www.milosbeach.gr; www.paroskite.gr;<br />

www.paroskite-procenter.com; www.naxos-windsurf.com;<br />

www.airtime-kitesurfing.com; www.windsurfing-rodos.com;<br />

www.prasonisi.com<br />

44 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 45


Forum face-off<br />

By Marina Chang Photo Shana Coursin<br />

m<br />

any kiteboarders sit at a desk for most of the day dreaming about their next session. Kiteboarding<br />

forums and blogs are often the best way to get your fix and to keep in touch with what is going on in the<br />

kiteboarding world. Whether you participate or not, most of you access kiteboarding related websites at least<br />

once a week, if not a couple of times a day! Working behind the scenes are many passionate kiteboarding<br />

webmasters who all share a common denominator: a love for kiteboarding and the people who participate in<br />

our growing community. We decided to give these unsung heroes a face and voice, so you can get to know<br />

the people who drive these sites. Next time you see one of them, give them props for a job well done for all<br />

they do to help us share and learn from each other online.<br />

46 thekiteboarder.com<br />

Bay Area Kiteboarding<br />

Name of Forum: Bay Area Kiteboarding (BAK)<br />

Website: www.bayareakiteboarding.com Founder/moderator: Ollie Govers<br />

Background: Shingle siding contractor specializing in restoring<br />

residential homes in the SF East Bay.<br />

Why did you start your forum? To fulfill a need for an interactive resource that didn’t exist for<br />

kiteboarders in the San Francisco Bay Area in Feb 2004. We currently have 900 registered users.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? To promote safety, share information, help others, build<br />

community among kiteboarders and publicize events in the SF Bay Area.<br />

Who is your audience? We receive visits from kiters globally, but our main audience is a diverse<br />

and wide-ranging demographic made up of kiters in the SF Bay Area between the ages of 14-60<br />

years old from all types of backgrounds.<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? Great design, lots of features, very helpful users and<br />

very little drama. People want to help and provide others with lots of useful answers about learning,<br />

gear, locations, safety, travel, weather and more.<br />

What is are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? BAK, NWS (National Weather<br />

Service) and iKitesurf<br />

EastKB<br />

Name of Forum: EastKB Website: www.eastkb.com<br />

Founder/moderator: Bruno Garcia (L) aka Brui and Vali Puscasu aka Lost (R)<br />

Background: Bruno is a web developer and graphic designer, and Vali’s<br />

background is filming and journalism. <strong>The</strong>y live in Washington, DC but<br />

otherwise live to travel in search for wind.<br />

Why did you start your forum? We needed a better interface than the yahoo group we were using and wanted<br />

to have the capability to integrate photos into our messages. We launched the site in 2006 and cover the<br />

mid-Atlantic region, which is mainly Maryland, Delaware, Virginia and DC. Membership is at 118 and growing.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? We want to create a real community for our area, to be able to share<br />

information about places we ride, when we go out, gear we try. We also plan on organizing events such as<br />

crossing the Chesapeake Bay, beach clean-ups, and gear demos and swaps.<br />

Who is your audience? Anyone who is interested in kiteboarding, loves the water, likes to fly and is hooked<br />

on the feeling of freedom when riding. We even have a few windsurfers among us who are interested in the<br />

“dark side.” <strong>The</strong>y don’t post because they want to stay anonymous. But we know who you are!<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? Our goal isn’t necessarily to be different; we just want to<br />

provide the best interface and information for our users. We are like an extended family that is always there<br />

when we want to have fun or when we need help.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? Our forum because is not just a forum on the<br />

web…it is a real home for us.<br />

Florida Kiteboarding Association<br />

Name of Forum: FKA Kiteboarding Forum Website: http://fksa.org<br />

Founder/moderator: Rick Iossi<br />

Background: Environmental and construction-related engineer who started<br />

kiteboarding in the Summer of 1998. Rick researches and analyzes kiteboarding<br />

accidents in an effort to help reduce avoidable kiting accidents. He also<br />

writes accident summaries as well as event and travel articles.<br />

Why did you start your forum? Saw a need for promotion of safer and sustainable kiteboarding<br />

practices and formed the Florida Kitesurfing Association, Inc. and Forum in 2001.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? FKA promotes a sense of community among kiters and safer,<br />

sustainable riding along with useful information and entertainment. Membership is at 3600 and is<br />

focused on Florida and the Bahamas primarily, although the target audience is worldwide.<br />

Who is your audience? <strong>The</strong> forum draws kiteboarders and people that are interested in Florida<br />

kiting, events, travel, training and safety worldwide.<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? It has been around for a long time and attempts to<br />

avoid focusing on commercial content and more on safety, events, travel, and local issues.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? Fksa.org (naturally), Kiteforum.com,<br />

bayareakiteboarding.com, skypilotkiteboarding.com, seabreeze.com.au, kiteboarder.co.uk


48 thekiteboarder.com<br />

Kite Forum<br />

Website: www.kiteforum.com Founder/moderator: Toby Braeuer<br />

Background: Learned import and export, then did several kinds of jobs.<br />

I am now working 100% for my websites.<br />

Why did you start your forum? In 2000/2001 I always looked up a German forum, and my girlfriend said I<br />

was wasting my time doing so. I started my own forum, so she has nothing to complain about!<br />

Also, the former strongest Yahoo group was hard to read, since a question got posted and answers came<br />

some pages later. Back then the phpBB software was new, and the answers were listed under the question.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? <strong>The</strong> forum helps any kiter in the world with as much info as possible<br />

on our sport. <strong>The</strong> goal is to have any question answered, and so far this works really well. Real users are at<br />

16,000 and growing everyday.<br />

Who is your audience? Kiters from around the world<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? It is international and has team riders, company owners,<br />

reps, developers and many normal kiters of any level from around the world on it. It also links to the other<br />

five sites that I have created for kite beaches around the world, videos, travel, blogging, reviews and more.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? I am so busy working on my own websites<br />

and new ideas that I don’t have much time to look at others!<br />

Kite-surf.com<br />

Name of Forum: Kite-Surf.com Website: www.kite-surf.com<br />

Founder/moderator: Robin Zwissler<br />

Background: I am a Computer Specialist for SAP Software, working for BMW.<br />

Why did you start your forum? I took lessons in southern France back in 1998. I was immediately<br />

hooked and knew that kiteboarding would be the sport of the future. Back then, there was only Hung Vu’s<br />

Kitesurfing eGroup (nowadays called Yahoo!Group). So, I founded the first kiteboarding website featuring<br />

the news of the stuff discussed in that eGroup in July 1999.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? To collect and supply as many kite and kiteboard reviews as possible.<br />

So far, the site has 1357 kite reviews and 348 kiteboard reviews.<br />

Who is your audience? Anybody looking for kite and kiteboard reviews<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? Our focus is to have the biggest and most complete<br />

reviews section. Due to my “real” job and forum spammers, I have only time left to focus on the<br />

Reviews section nowadays.<br />

What is are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? www.hanglos.nl, as it has the best news<br />

overview in one place.<br />

NW Kite<br />

Name of Forum: nwkite.com Website: www.nwkite.com<br />

Founder/moderator: Phillip Holmstrand<br />

Background: Web Services Manager for the City of Portland who started<br />

kiteboarding in 2003. I have been totally addicted ever since.<br />

Why did you start your forum? I was stuck at home one week a couple years ago with a wicked fever.<br />

Already had the domain name, slapped on phpBB and emailed all my buds. Nwkite.com was born! We<br />

have over 700 members and focus on the Pacific Northwest, but most members are from the Gorge,<br />

Portland, and the Oregon Coast.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? To keep the stoke of kiteboarding alive in the hours when we can’t<br />

get to the water, and to keep locals informed of events and industry news.<br />

Who is your audience? <strong>Kiteboarder</strong>s and fans of kiteboarding.<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? We have an awesome group of users that actually do kite at<br />

least five days a week, and incredible photographers that contribute tons of eye-candy. Most importantly, I<br />

think we keep flaming and gear wars taboo and shuffle those topics to other forums.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? KiteForum.com is a useful site in small<br />

doses, but since we have nwkite.com now, I much prefer to fill my daily addiction there. Of course<br />

IWindsurf.com is always awesome for wind info.<br />

Photos courtesy of Ed Dubois<br />

NYC Kitesurfers<br />

Name of Forum: NYC Kitesurfers Website: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NYCKitesurfers<br />

Founder/moderator: Dmitry Avramenko<br />

Background: Computer programmer working for small startup in NYC who<br />

windsurfed for eight years before switching to kiteboarding in 2003.<br />

Took first lessons in <strong>Cabarete</strong>, was hooked and never looked back.<br />

Why did you start your forum? I met Toby from Kiteforum in <strong>Cabarete</strong> and thought that local riders in<br />

NY had no means to communicate with each other. We needed a local forum where we could discuss<br />

local beach access issues and get united so I created the forum in 2003. We are pretty new and have<br />

336 members so far, mostly from the New York and New Jersey areas.<br />

What is the main goal or mission of your forum? Build a strong local community, share experiences,<br />

discuss gear, help with local kite spots discovery.<br />

Who is your audience? Users are local kiteboarders as well as visitors to our area from overseas and<br />

other states.<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? I think we have one of the friendliest, supportive and<br />

informative groups out there. Members are very active in posting trip reports, networking for riding, and<br />

just sharing info in general.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? www.kiteforum.com<br />

SnowKiting.com<br />

Forum: snowkiting.com Website: snowkiting.com<br />

Founder/moderator: Eric Byers<br />

Background: Eric just finished up an internship with Windzup in December<br />

and is back at the University of North Dakota finishing up his degree in<br />

Aviation Management. He was very involved in the recent To Cross the<br />

Moon Expedition (see 411/Smack).<br />

Why did you start your forum? Snowkiting completely reversed my nasty opinion of snowy, freezing,<br />

windy winters in the Upper Midwest. What some people might call hell frozen over, I call the perfect season.<br />

I believe snowkiting can mature best if treated as an independent sport. Snowkiting.com gives new,<br />

snow-centric ideas a place to grow without being overshadowed by water-centric chatter.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? <strong>The</strong> forum provides a non-commercial place for snowkiters and those<br />

interested in this side of the sport to get the latest news and videos, as well as share info and ideas.<br />

Who is your audience? Mostly North America but we do draw international users. Any and all interested<br />

in the snowkiting.<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? Snowkiting.com is devoted exclusively to the snow side of the<br />

sport and is driven by a passion and vision for snowkiting.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? Utube.com<br />

Skypilot Kiteboarding<br />

Name of Forum: Skypilotkiteboarding.com Website: Skypilotkiteboarding.com<br />

Founders: Alex Noke-Smith (R) and Dan Charlesworth (L)<br />

Background: Alex is a firefighter with the City of Vancouver and has been<br />

kiting for five years. Dan is a commercial pilot who has windsurfed for<br />

16 years and kiteboarded for four.<br />

Why did you start your forum? Skypilot Kiteboarding was created to provide a strong voice for the local<br />

Vancouver and Squamish kiteboarding communities. It has grown to over 1000 members and we’re now<br />

hearing from people around the globe of all ages, who are into kitesurfing, dirt kiting, snowkiting and buggying.<br />

What is the mission of your forum? Our ultimate goal is to support and merge a strong Canadian kiting<br />

scene into a global network, allowing our voices to meet the masses.<br />

Who is your audience? As of this year, there are four distinct Skypilot sites run by riders in Western<br />

Canada, Ontario, Quebec and Eastern Canada.<br />

What differentiates you from other forums? Skypilot is a very welcoming community-based resource for<br />

all levels of rider. Users contribute weather forecasts, condition reports, day planning, gear reviews, safety<br />

tips, trip feedback, and equipment maintenance/mods. We even have our own photographer, Ed Dubois<br />

– check out his photo gallery! Skypilot is also very active in driving new projects forward like additional<br />

beachfront webcams, regular articles, news items, and fundraisers for various causes.<br />

What are your personal favorite kiteboarding websites? www.bigwavedave.ca. Dave runs an amazing<br />

website that caters not only to kiters, but to windsurfers, surfers, and body boarders on Vancouver Island.


T H E K I T E B O A R D E R E X P O S E D<br />

crossroads<br />

Raised in Maui, Shawn Richman is at the age where he has to decide where to attend college.<br />

Where he ends up can make a huge impact on the course of the rest of his life. Before he makes<br />

his decision, Shawn takes the time to spot his landing in his hometown. Photo Tracy Kraft<br />

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mission accomplished<br />

We all drive by places that we dream about kiting if the conditions ever set up<br />

just right. Mark Barnes turned a few heads when he was lucky enough to catch<br />

this rare session on the Williamette River that runs through downtown Portland,<br />

Oregon. Photo Jon Malmberg<br />

reality check<br />

If you have ever seen Ruben Lenten ride, you know that this photo<br />

does not do him justice. Sure, this image may leave you in awe,<br />

but actually watching him throw a kiteloop like this in person with<br />

leave you completely speechless. Photo courtesy of Slingshot<br />

nirvana<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are hundreds of desolate kiteboarding spots around the world where wind, water,<br />

sunshine and a few good friends come together and define paradise. Julie Simsar and<br />

her crew find Nirvana on a recent trip to Brazil. Photo Carlos Delicado<br />

E X P O S E D<br />

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girls gone wild<br />

Boys aren’t the only ones who enjoy time out from their significant others. Pro-riders<br />

Julie Simsar, Gabi Steindl and a friend share some girl-time exploring the beaches of<br />

northeast Brazil. Photo Carlos Delicado<br />

for the birds<br />

Kiteboarding is not always about big airs and adrenaline packed sessions. <strong>The</strong> thrill<br />

of riding aross the water and being pulled by a kite is an enigma in itself. Ryan Wycoff<br />

becomes one with nature at the pools at Tawas Point, MI. Photo Bryan Elkus<br />

kiteboarder dreams<br />

Do you remember the time in your life when you wanted to sleep outside just because<br />

you could? Up and coming riders Rocky Chatwell and Jon VanMalson wake up in<br />

La Ventana, Mexico, ready to train all day to get one step closer to their dream of<br />

becoming pro kiteboarders. Photo VanMalson<br />

E X P O S E D<br />

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pushing the limits<br />

“Teahupo’o is not a kite wave; it’s a tow wave, and let me tell you why.<br />

Even when it’s 25 knots it’s still clean, open and perfect for towing. It<br />

bends so far around the reef that by the time you’re about to pull into<br />

the barrel with a kite, the wave is pulling you one way and the kite the<br />

other - it just doesn’t feel good. I figured that out on my first wave. This<br />

wave was my second. It may have ended my session because my kite<br />

was in a huge tangle after it, but it was worth it. It may not have been<br />

the biggest or heaviest wave that day, but it was my wave and my first<br />

experience at a place I have dreamed about riding for years.”<br />

Words Ben Wilson, Photo Tim McKenna<br />

beyond big air<br />

Sometimes you get those last minute shots right before you go<br />

to press, and you have to slip them in. No, this isn’t someone<br />

paragliding! Tomatoa Gillot boosts a monster air while kiteboarding<br />

in Tahiti. It looks like “big air” runs in the family. Our inside source<br />

tells us that Tomatoa learned from his step-brother, snowkiting<br />

pioneer Guillaume “Chasta” Chastagnol. Photo Renaude Fayada<br />

E X P O S E D<br />

54 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 55


By Paul Lang<br />

Slow Down to SpeeD Up YoUr progreSSion<br />

M<br />

any intermediate kiteboarders<br />

want to learn how to improve<br />

their jumping skills, go upwind faster, and<br />

ride waves better. What few people realize<br />

is that simply learning to control your<br />

speed will improve your kiteboarding<br />

skills as a whole. To become a better kiter,<br />

you must build a foundation of solid basic<br />

skills, and speed control is the first skill<br />

you should work on after you learn to get<br />

up on your board.<br />

How do you control your Speed?<br />

As a rider, you have a lot of control over your speed.<br />

You are not simply at the mercy of the wind. Since<br />

the introduction of high depower kites, many riders<br />

have begun to rely on the the chicken loop to control<br />

speed, but this is a bad habit. Focus on controlling<br />

your speed without using your chicken loop by<br />

learning how to edge your board more effectively and<br />

your board skills will dramatically improve.<br />

Slow down<br />

• Hold your kite steady at 45 o to 60 o above the water.<br />

• While keeping your back straight, lean back<br />

against the pull of the kite and drive your weight<br />

through the heel of your back foot.<br />

• This must be done progressively. If you suddenly<br />

put all of your weight on your back foot, you will<br />

slow down too much and sink back into the water.<br />

• Think of the tail of your board as a brake. <strong>The</strong> harder<br />

you push on the brake, the more you slow down.<br />

Speed Control<br />

Speed up<br />

• Stand up and put your body directly over the top<br />

of your board.<br />

• Shift your weight further forward, so that your<br />

weight is evenly distributed between your feet.<br />

• If you still want to go faster, cycle the kite in the<br />

window to produce more power.<br />

Once you become more proficient and focused on<br />

controlling your speed, you will notice that gusts<br />

and lulls are easier to deal with -- in gusty winds,<br />

slow down in the puffs and speed up in the lulls.<br />

If you do this, you will be able to stay in complete<br />

control, even in the most challenging conditions.<br />

SpeedS eFFect on upwind aBility<br />

When you learn to control your speed, going upwind<br />

becomes much easier because there is a simple<br />

relationship between the two. Using your board skills<br />

to control speed, the slower you go, the further<br />

Jason Slezak displays perfect upwind form and kite placement. Lens John Bilderback<br />

upwind you go. Conversely, the faster you go,<br />

the less upwind you go. It’s that simple. To travel<br />

upwind as quickly as possible, you need to slow<br />

down, but remember to do it progressively. If you<br />

slow down too much, you will not be able to stay<br />

on top of the water and you will not go upwind<br />

very effectively, if at all.<br />

Speed and Jumping<br />

Here is a tip that can really help both your riding<br />

and your jumping: riding upwind and jumping<br />

correctly requires different speeds. To get upwind<br />

quickly you have to ride slower than is proper for<br />

jumping. Think of riding upwind and jumping as two<br />

separate modes. In upwind mode, you are gaining<br />

ground upwind, but you will not be able to generate<br />

very much pop if you try to jump. To generate pop<br />

requires speed, and in upwind mode you should be<br />

traveling slowly. To switch into jumping mode, you<br />

have to focus on generating more speed and not<br />

56 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 57


worry about trying to get upwind. Speed up by<br />

easing up on your edge and bringing your weight<br />

over your board. Shift your weight forward to take<br />

your foot off the brake. You can quickly regain any<br />

downwind distance you lose by slowing down and<br />

transitioning back into upwind mode.<br />

uSing Board Speed in tHe waveS<br />

Speed management is very useful in the waves.<br />

Go watch a group of kiters in the waves and you<br />

will see why. Most intermediate riders simply ride<br />

back and forth in the waves. Good riders speed<br />

up and slow down to get on and stay on the<br />

wave. Every wave is different, and some waves<br />

are faster than others. Depending on the wave,<br />

you will have to either slow down or speed up<br />

to catch it. Once on the wave, you can use your<br />

board speed to stay there. If you find yourself<br />

being pulled in front of the wave by your kite,<br />

slow down and let the face of the wave catch up<br />

to you. If the wave begins to crumble in front of<br />

you, you can speed up to get around the section<br />

and get back onto the face of the wave. When you<br />

Speed Control<br />

Miguel Willis uses the power of the kite and regulates his board speed to<br />

place himself in the sweet spot of this wave. Lens Carlos Delicado<br />

are done with the wave, slow down and shift into<br />

upwind mode so you can do it all over again<br />

FocuS on tHe BaSicS<br />

Don’t forget that improving your kiteboarding<br />

skills is based on progression. You must master<br />

the basics before moving on to progressively<br />

more difficult moves. Too many riders begin<br />

hucking themselves into the air and charging big<br />

surf before understanding a concept as simple as<br />

speed management. You will ultimately progress<br />

much faster if you slow yourself down and take<br />

the time to master the basic skills before you try<br />

to imitate the riders in the latest available DVD.<br />

Make the effort to fully understand one concept<br />

before moving on to the next. <strong>The</strong> next time you<br />

ride, focus only on controlling your speed for<br />

the first 30 minutes. To get upwind, don’t focus<br />

on trying to get upwind. Focus on riding slowly<br />

and you will automatically get there. You have to<br />

learn to walk before you can run, and learning to<br />

control your speed is an essential skill to get you<br />

on your way to becoming a better rider.<br />

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thekiteboarder.com 59


worKBencH<br />

d<br />

o you suffer from bladder issues?<br />

Symptoms include difficulty maintaining<br />

constant pressure, decreased stamina, and an<br />

overall decrease in performance. We’re talking<br />

about your kite here, not you. Over time, the<br />

bladders in your kite may develop small leaks,<br />

and many riders simply live with the problem,<br />

instead of doing something about it. <strong>The</strong>re is a<br />

belief out there that the leading edge (LE) on a<br />

one-pump kite is extremely difficult to repair. This<br />

is not true. If anything, the one pump kites are<br />

as easy to repair as standard kites. Follow these<br />

steps to remove and re-install the LE bladder in<br />

your kite.<br />

Bladder removal:<br />

FIxIng Your Bladder:<br />

re-InstallIng Your<br />

Bladder:<br />

By Paul Lang<br />

BladderIssues<br />

1. On one wingtip of your kite, find and open the Velcro enclosure that holds the end of the bladder. Open it<br />

and pull the bladder out a few inches.<br />

2. Tie a line onto the end of your bladder.<br />

3. Disassemble your one-pump system. Do not lose any of the parts. After you remove the hoses from the LE,<br />

push the valve inside the LE. Also, disassemble the inflation valves and push them inside the kite.<br />

4. Open the zipper or Velcro in the middle of your LE and pull half of the bladder out.<br />

5. Repeat the process for the other side.<br />

1. To fix your bladder, you have to find the leaks. Hopefully, you have some spare plugs so you can seal all<br />

of the valves and inflate the bladder outside of the kite. If you don’t have extras, you can use your kite’s<br />

hoses and clips to cut off air, or get Airtime’s spare plugs at your local shop.<br />

2. Spray the bladder with soapy water or Windex until you find the spot or spots that cause bubbles to<br />

form. Check the whole bladder, as you may have one or more leaks.<br />

3. If the hole is very small, use the self-adhesive patch kit that comes with most kites. Use Tear-Aid for<br />

larger holes or tears. Don’t forget to clean the area first. Make sure you do this with ALL the air out of the<br />

bladder and NO wrinkles.<br />

1. If you take the time to do this right, it’s easy. Don’t be in a hurry.<br />

2. Make sure you orient the bladder properly. If you install it backwards, the valves will not line up. Look at<br />

the Velcro for the inflation valves – they will show you how the valves must be oriented by which side of the<br />

valve the plug must be on.<br />

3. Starting in the middle of the bladder, carefully fold one side of the bladder like an accordion, applying baby<br />

powder as you go. <strong>The</strong> baby powder helps the bladder slip into place when you inflate it for the first time.<br />

4. Tie the line on the end of the bladder and with the kite’s leading edge as straight as possible, pull the<br />

bladder back in. This is a two person job, one pulling the string and the other guiding the bladder into the LE.<br />

5. Untie the line and fold the bladder into the Velcro closure at the wingtip. Do not leave the end of the bladder<br />

loose, or it will burst.<br />

6. Stick your finger into each hole and fish the valves out. If you put the bladder in properly, they should be<br />

within a few inches of the hole. This is why one-pump kites are easy to repair. As long as the valves line up,<br />

it’s unlikely that the bladder is twisted.<br />

7. Repeat the process for the other side of the kite.<br />

8. Re-assemble your one-pump system. Every brand if different, so I hope you paid attention when you took<br />

it apart. Re-attach the inflation valves to their plugs.<br />

9. Slowly inflate your kite. Stop about halfway through and massage the LE. Take time to work the bladder<br />

into any areas where the fabric is loose. If the bladder will not fill past one specific point, you twisted it. Pull<br />

it out and try again.<br />

10. Inflate the kite all the way and make sure the bladder properly fills the LE. Let the kite sit for at least an<br />

hour so you can double check that you found and fixed all the leaks.<br />

<strong>The</strong> whole process is easy as long as you have a little patience. If you have never done it before, offer an<br />

experienced kiter a few beers and ask for help. <strong>The</strong> process may seem a little daunting, especially on a large<br />

kite, but it really is simple once you know what you are doing. If your friends ever give you grief about having<br />

baby powder with you at all times, you now have an excuse. It’s for your bladder problems.<br />

60 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 61


cabarete:<br />

dominican republic revisited<br />

By Ryan Riccitelli<br />

Kite beach, <strong>Cabarete</strong> is one of the most well known kite launches in the world.<br />

Photo eric Hertsens<br />

since that first visit, i<br />

have traveled back nine<br />

times and i am sure i<br />

will go back again<br />

<strong>–rr</strong><br />

local commerce. Photo eric Hertsens<br />

the young dominican boys kite caddy all day and dream of becoming pro kiteboarders.<br />

Photo ryan riccitelli<br />

<strong>Cabarete</strong>’s perfect conditions have produced world-class<br />

kiteboarders like Jose luis Ciracio. Photo raphael Faux<br />

It was six years ago when I first visited the<br />

Dominican Republic. I told myself that<br />

I would never go back – the world is full<br />

of places to discover. However, since that<br />

first visit, I have traveled back nine times<br />

and I am sure I will go back again.<br />

<strong>The</strong> sleepy little town of <strong>Cabarete</strong> was one of<br />

the first developed kiteboarding destinations<br />

in the Caribbean. Many of the top pros around<br />

the world have lived and trained in the steady,<br />

consistent trade winds over the years. Nowhere<br />

in the Caribbean will you find a place that is<br />

more dedicated to kiteboarding. With 10 schools<br />

and over a dozen hotels, condos and villas lining<br />

the beaches, <strong>Cabarete</strong> is a no-brainer for any<br />

kiteboarder looking for a turn-key destination<br />

to visit.<br />

continued next page.<br />

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dominican republic cabarete<br />

Courtesy cabaretekiteboarding.com<br />

Groundhog’s Day<br />

As my plane landed in Puerto Plata, a nervous<br />

feeling of anticipation crept over me. <strong>Cabarete</strong><br />

had changed my life. During my many trips,<br />

I had crossed paths with the who’s who of<br />

kiteboarding and had spent hundreds of<br />

hours riding and exploring the island with my<br />

kiteboarding buddies. This trip would be no<br />

different. As I waited for my board bag at the<br />

baggage carousel, I ran into Bruno Legaignoux,<br />

the original designer of the inflatable kite.<br />

Bruno lives in the Dominican Republic and<br />

had just come back from a trip to Martinique<br />

where he was testing some of his new designs.<br />

I have known Bruno for years and it was great<br />

to see him. We briefly chatted, I handed him<br />

a copy of <strong>The</strong> <strong>Kiteboarder</strong> and then continued<br />

the trek through customs. <strong>Cabarete</strong> is like that.<br />

You never know who you are going to cross<br />

paths with—pro, pioneer or super cool average<br />

Joe kiteboarder.<br />

We soon made our way to the street and waited<br />

for our ride to <strong>Cabarete</strong>. Luckily, my friend<br />

manages eXtreme Hotels and had arranged<br />

a private taxi to pick us up. We pulled into<br />

eXtreme and it was like Groundhog’s Day. I<br />

had not been back in a year and half, yet many<br />

of the same people were doing the same thing.<br />

<strong>The</strong> only difference was the palm trees had<br />

grown. Dozens of kites were in the air. People<br />

were lounging at the pool. <strong>The</strong> skate ramp was<br />

going off and the bar was filled with people<br />

eating and using the free internet connection.<br />

I grabbed a pirate punch, my signature rum<br />

drink, and walked out onto “Kite Beach.” As<br />

I looked out, there were over 40 kites in the air.<br />

Some would complain that it is crowded, but<br />

the area is big enough to handle three times<br />

this amount. This is the magic of this spot<br />

and it is something you have to experience. I<br />

decided to take a walk down the beach and say<br />

hello to some old friends.<br />

continued next page.<br />

continued from page 65.<br />

Ben Kleppe worn out from a long days session.<br />

Photo ryan riccitelli<br />

Kim tropf and neil Hutchinson enjoy happy hour at extreme Hotel’s<br />

beach bar. Photo ryan riccitelli<br />

Jose luis launches off a kicker at Kite Beach. Photo raphael Faux<br />

you never know who<br />

you are going to<br />

cross paths with–pro,<br />

pioneeer or super cool<br />

average Joe kiteboarder<br />

<strong>–rr</strong><br />

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dominican republic cabarete<br />

continued from page 67.<br />

No matter where you<br />

turn, you will see EH<br />

kites with their flashy<br />

<strong>“Warning</strong> <strong>Cabarete</strong><br />

<strong>Local”</strong> <strong>graphics</strong>.<br />

<strong>–rr</strong><br />

<strong>Cabarete</strong>’s signature blue water and long sandy beaches deliver<br />

near year-round riding conditions. Photo Ryan Riccitelli<br />

Old Friends<br />

My first stop was Kite Beach Hotel. A few<br />

years back the property was completely rebuilt.<br />

Kitexcite, was one of the first kite schools in the<br />

Caribbean, and currently operates a full service<br />

kite center with rentals and lessons out of the<br />

hotel. <strong>The</strong> owner Stefan Ruether is one of the<br />

early wind sport pioneers of <strong>Cabarete</strong>. I quickly<br />

caught up with Stefan and the hotel manager<br />

Katrine Lindemann, and got the <strong>Cabarete</strong><br />

update. Stefan is a great resource for wind and<br />

weather information and assured me the wind<br />

would be 18-25 all week. My next stop was<br />

Agualina Hotel. <strong>The</strong> property is immaculate<br />

and also houses the first-class Vela Dare2Fly<br />

kiteboarding center. While I like to stay at<br />

eXtreme because of the skate ramp and party<br />

atmosphere, Agualina is the spot where I<br />

put my parents up on my last trip. <strong>The</strong>y still<br />

rave to this day about how great <strong>Cabarete</strong><br />

and the accommodations were.<br />

My next stop was to visit an old friend<br />

and icon of <strong>Cabarete</strong>, Eric Hertsen. Eric is<br />

another one of the early windsport pioneers<br />

of <strong>Cabarete</strong> and has played a major role in<br />

evolving kiteboarding on the island. Eric is<br />

also known around the world for his signature<br />

EH kite and board line and has helped design<br />

kites with major manufacturers such as Liquid<br />

Force. No matter where you turn, you will see<br />

EH kites with their flashy <strong>“Warning</strong> <strong>Cabarete</strong><br />

<strong>Local”</strong> <strong>graphics</strong>. Eric sponsors many of the<br />

young Dominican kids who are amazingly<br />

talented. Even the 12-year-olds can do just<br />

about every version of a kiteloop handlepass<br />

thought possible. Unfortunately, Eric was not<br />

around, but it was easy to see that EH is still<br />

a major force in <strong>Cabarete</strong>’s kite scene. On<br />

the way back to eXtreme, I stopped in to see<br />

Kim Tropf. Kim opened the first Best Test<br />

<strong>Cabarete</strong>’s windy conditions are perfect for kiteboarders,<br />

windsurfers and sailors alike. Photo Eric Hertsens<br />

Center in the world, which is on the main<br />

strip between <strong>Cabarete</strong> Bay and Kite Beach.<br />

R&D has since moved to Brazil, but Kim still<br />

keeps busy working on special projects and<br />

keeping his kite schools stocked and happy. I<br />

also passed John Holzall’s new center. He was<br />

out taking a session. John moved from Maui<br />

to <strong>Cabarete</strong> about a year ago. John is known<br />

for his unique, KITEs Method teaching style<br />

and wrote one of the first instructional books<br />

on kiteboarding.<br />

Usual Suspects<br />

As soon as I got back to eXtreme, I was<br />

greeted by none other than Neil Hutchinson,<br />

my longtime friend and favorite traveling<br />

compadre. Zach and Ben Kleppe had also<br />

arrived, and the beginning of yet another<br />

incredible Dominican adventure kicked off<br />

with dozens of Presidente beers and rum<br />

punches consumed to celebrate our reunion.<br />

I will never get tired of listening to Neil<br />

captivate a crowd telling the same stories over<br />

and over again of our many crazy adventures<br />

exploring the island. Later that night, Neil<br />

and I sat under the same palm tree where we<br />

have shared many “bro” talks over the years,<br />

reminiscing about how lucky we are to have<br />

been able to watch <strong>Cabarete</strong> evolve. What<br />

were once coconut palm groves, is now a<br />

strip of hotels and bustling businesses. <strong>The</strong><br />

beaches that used to erode seasonally, are now<br />

pumped full of sand creating long and sandy<br />

perfect kite launches. <strong>The</strong> sleepy little town of<br />

<strong>Cabarete</strong> is now a thriving community with<br />

every amenity at your fingertips.<br />

<strong>The</strong> rest of our week was spent kiteboarding<br />

the different spots. We sessioned Bozo Beach<br />

in front of Laurel Eastman’s kite school. I had<br />

<strong>The</strong> Presidente beer truck brought extra cases when<br />

Neil showed up. Photo Ryan Riccitelli<br />

done a photo shoot with Laurel on one of her<br />

first trips to <strong>Cabarete</strong> years back. She ended<br />

up launching a kite school, and six years later<br />

it has become one of the top schools on the<br />

island. <strong>The</strong> next afternoon, we drove up to<br />

kite the river mouth at La Boca with Cameron<br />

Dietrich and enjoyed a sunset session. <strong>The</strong><br />

following morning we did a down winder to<br />

Encuentro and got our wave fix. <strong>The</strong> rest of<br />

the time we were lazy and kited off Kite Beach<br />

in front of eXtreme, Kite Beach Hotel and<br />

Agualina Hotel. You can’t beat the compressed<br />

air, the fun little waves on the outer reef and<br />

the convenience of a fully stocked bar waiting<br />

for you. <strong>The</strong>re is nothing like taking a session,<br />

landing your kite and then ordering a cold<br />

beer 15 steps away.<br />

Reflections<br />

<strong>The</strong> week passed much too quickly. Before<br />

we knew it, our cab was picking us up, and<br />

we were on our way back to the airport.<br />

<strong>Cabarete</strong> delivered once again with perfect<br />

wind and plenty of friendly people. While<br />

I was a little bummed that it had evolved<br />

into a more mature travel destination with<br />

more properties, schools and businesses, it<br />

still possessed the charm that has kept me<br />

coming back year after year. Gone are the days<br />

of .50 cent beers and vacant hotels, but the<br />

flip side is that <strong>Cabarete</strong> has become more of<br />

an ideal travel destination for anyone. Out<br />

of all the places I have visited and written<br />

stories about, you will never find a spot that<br />

is as consistently windy and easy to travel. If<br />

you do book a trip down to the DR, don’t<br />

be afraid to say hello to some of the people<br />

mentioned in this story. <strong>The</strong>se are the<br />

individuals who have helped make <strong>Cabarete</strong><br />

what it is and keep me coming back for more.<br />

66 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 67


DISCOVER<br />

CABARETE<br />

68 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 69


B y J A m e s B r o w n A n d r i C k i o s s i<br />

a n a t o m y o f a h e l m e t<br />

THE dEmANd fOr SAfEr ANd mOrE STYlISH HElmETS fOr kITEBOArdINg HAS<br />

BEEN mET BY A grOwINg NumBEr Of mANufAcTurErS. wE cOuldN’T pOSSIBlY<br />

SHOw All Of THE vArIOuS mOdElS AvAIlABlE fOr wATEr ANd SNOw uSE, SO<br />

wE dESIgNEd THIS guIdE TO HElp YOu mAkE BETTEr dEcISIONS wHEN YOu gO<br />

OuT SEArcHINg fOr YOur NEw HElmET.<br />

Clinton practices his F16’s. Photo Gavin Butler.<br />

PurPose<br />

Obviously you want to protect your skull and the gray<br />

matter we call your “brain” from impact trauma. You<br />

also want to avoid being knocked unconscious, which<br />

puts you at risk of drowning or being dragged into<br />

something. A helmet can help to do this by slowing<br />

impact by cushioning, spreading the impact area,<br />

and limiting piercing by sharp objects and abrasion.<br />

Added Benefits<br />

Helmets also shade your head and eyes from sun<br />

and intense heat and can help keep your head<br />

warmer in cold conditions. If wearing sunglasses or<br />

goggles, they can keep them from getting yanked<br />

off. You can also put stickers on them! Some helmets<br />

are even equipped with waterproof earpieces and<br />

microphones for communications.<br />

fitting<br />

Your helmet should cover the forehead, back and sides<br />

of your noggin without slipping over your eyes, to the<br />

sides or backwards exposing the forehead. It should<br />

fit snug, but comfortable without readily pulling<br />

away much. <strong>The</strong> straps should hold it in place without<br />

any chafing and have adequate adjustment options<br />

to make it fit comfortably. After your first couple of<br />

sessions, you won’t even remember it’s there!<br />

ConstruCtion<br />

Helmets have three basic components: shell,<br />

cushioning and straps.<br />

<strong>The</strong> shell should resist breaking, crushing or piercing.<br />

<strong>The</strong> most common materials helmets are made from<br />

are plastic or carbon composite.<br />

Cushioning ranges from soft single-layer closed-cell<br />

foam (won’t soak up water) to high-density bike helmet<br />

style Styrofoam. <strong>The</strong> higher the foam density among<br />

other factors, the better protection you will receive<br />

from a violent crash. Bike helmet style foam is the best<br />

for land impacts, but they should be replaced in the<br />

event of a crash. Even softer so called “multiple-impact”<br />

helmets can be compromised by an impact without any<br />

visible damage. Your head is worth replacing a helmet<br />

if you have a bad crash. Some companies may give you a<br />

discount on a replacement helmet.<br />

Straps should be strong and have durable fasteners<br />

that won’t rust or corrode. Inspect your connectors<br />

when putting on a helmet to make sure they are free<br />

of sand that can readily cause the connector to open.<br />

features checklist:<br />

• Impact resistant: the best is high-density foam.<br />

• Durable materials: pick something that can handle some abuse.<br />

• Lightweight: you don’t want to feel the weight, ideally less<br />

than 500 grams.<br />

• Comfortable: pick one that feels natural. Try on many different<br />

brands and models till you find the right one. Soft, squishy foam<br />

can be very comfortable but offers less protection.<br />

• Low drag helmets for water kiteboarding: thicker, larger<br />

helmets can offer excellent impact protection until you start to<br />

hit water when they can become a pain in the neck, literally.<br />

• Straps: get adjustable straps that don’t chafe or choke.<br />

• Fasteners: look for ones that won’t rust or corode.<br />

• Compact: choose a close fitting helmet without protrusions.<br />

• Goggle shelf and strap (for snow helmets): indent for the<br />

strap to rest in so it doesn’t slide up or down, and a strap to<br />

hold it in the back.<br />

• Vents: for snow helmets more vents are best for warm days.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are two types -- slide vents allow on-the-fly open and close<br />

and vent plugs can be removed/replaced before your session.<br />

• Ear pads: protect your eardrums from bursting on impact.<br />

• Audio: most snow helmets offer standard or optional ear pads with<br />

speakers for listening to your tunes. You can also wear regular ear<br />

buds underneath the standard pads for snow or water.<br />

• Style: pick a style that you like. If you don’t wear it, you’ve wasted<br />

your money and lose all the great benefits of why you purchased it in the<br />

first place.<br />

what to avoid<br />

Any protrusion like bills or visors, or a loose or poorly fitted helmet may cause<br />

excess drag or “bucketing.” Bucketing is what happens when a helmet scoops<br />

water or snow in a fall. It can cause damage or paralysis in your neck - even<br />

if the impact is only against water! Avoid excessively large helmets for water<br />

kiteboarding that create too much drag on impact with water, e.g. contoured<br />

bike helmets. Not all helmets on the market are necessarily appropriate for<br />

water or snow kiting. If you want a bill or visor, get one that can readily<br />

break away completely.<br />

prEdATOr - NErO mArkEr – m4<br />

prEdATOr - SHOrT cuT vOZ - EvOluTION SHrEd rEAdY - full mETAl<br />

70 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 71<br />

James Brown models his system. Photo Tyler Weisz.<br />

Inset Clarissa Hempel Photo Mike Minichiello


product watcH<br />

07 productwatch<br />

airuSH Converse<br />

caBrinHa Omega HD<br />

<strong>The</strong> 07 Converse boards were<br />

developed specifically to<br />

replace the light wind<br />

kiteboard in your<br />

quiver and<br />

give you the<br />

freedom<br />

to have<br />

one board<br />

for everyday surfing<br />

and kiting. <strong>The</strong> smaller board size is<br />

ideal for lighter riders or high wind<br />

conditions, while the higher volume<br />

of the bigger boards means you<br />

can ride vertically with more snap<br />

than was even remotely possible a<br />

few years ago. Big riders will love<br />

the extra float while smaller riders<br />

will like how easily the board tracks<br />

down the line for that ‘first time’<br />

experience riding waves.<br />

Sizes: 6’0” and 6’3”<br />

MSRP: $639 complete<br />

www.airushkiteboarding.com<br />

BeSt Bularoo<br />

Developed alongside the Waroo range of SLE<br />

kites, the Bularoo is designed to do anything and<br />

go anywhere. Whether you ride in the surf, the<br />

snow or on the land, the Bularoo is the perfect<br />

companion for all your kiting aspirations. <strong>The</strong> new<br />

EZ-Pump integrated inflation<br />

system makes set up a<br />

breeze. Unique Canopy<br />

Framing protects the entire<br />

kite from impact damage<br />

and profile shapers and<br />

trailing edge battens<br />

make it a super fast<br />

flying, ultra-stable and<br />

aerodynamic SLE.<br />

Sizes: 7, 10, 13, 16m<br />

MSRP: starting at $823 complete<br />

bestkiteboarding.com<br />

Lens: Dave Loop/H2Air.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Omega HD<br />

(High Depower)<br />

is a versatile<br />

freeride kite<br />

for any and all<br />

conditions. For<br />

snow or water,<br />

this kite delivers<br />

performance<br />

and security at an<br />

affordable price. <strong>The</strong><br />

Omega can be ridden<br />

with either a pulley or non-pulley<br />

control system. With pulleys, the<br />

kite is faster turning for surfing<br />

and freeriding. No pulleys are<br />

better for unhooked riding with<br />

light bar pressure. Features<br />

include single point inflation, 2N1<br />

control system, and Override 2<br />

depower on demand.<br />

Sizes: 5, 7, 9, 12, 15m<br />

MSRP: starting at $1210 complete<br />

cabrinhakites.com<br />

caution Answer 2<br />

<strong>The</strong> re-designed 2007 Answer is Caution’s<br />

newest high performance flat kite. Caution<br />

has created an incredibly stable wing<br />

while maintaining the speed and<br />

performance of the 2006 Answer.<br />

Its tough construction makes it<br />

a great choice for freestyle riders<br />

needing a responsive, tight- pivoting,<br />

lightweight kite without giving up<br />

durability. New features include a Single<br />

Turbo Inflation System, new shape and profile,<br />

newly re-vamped carbon bar and quick release,<br />

and two new sizes. Caution’s bomb-proof<br />

construction and materials are from leading<br />

manufacturers including Ronstan, Teijin and<br />

Cousins.<br />

Sizes: 6, 9, 12, 16, 19m<br />

MSRP: TBA<br />

cautionkites.com<br />

caution Redline<br />

Caution’s high performance Redline<br />

Series of twin tips is back for 2007.<br />

New features include a new tail shape<br />

promoting increased pop and snap off<br />

the lip, along with very comfortable<br />

and size accommodating footstraps.<br />

<strong>The</strong> boards also come complete with<br />

Stainless Steel 1/4”x 20 foot strap and<br />

handle inserts, a lower profile carbon<br />

grab handle, and indestructible hyper<br />

foil G10 fins.<br />

Sizes: 122 x 38.10, 132 x 38.10cm<br />

MSRP: $599 complete<br />

cautionkites.com<br />

daKine Footstrap System<br />

On-the-fly, micro adjustability of the new X-Lace Footstraps<br />

allows the rider to easily fine tune strap size<br />

for ultimate control and performance.<br />

<strong>The</strong> BoostII deckpad features a<br />

revolutionary uni-directional footholding<br />

traction pattern with<br />

two mounting choices. <strong>The</strong><br />

raptor heelstraps come<br />

with five different length<br />

adjustments for a custom<br />

fit. Together, this could be<br />

the most comfortable adjustable<br />

footstrap system ever made by Dakine.<br />

Sizes: One size fits all<br />

MSRP: Total System $88; Deckpad $24/$30 with mounting<br />

plate (pair); Footstrap $44/pair; Heelstrap $20/pair<br />

dakine.com<br />

eclipSe Thruster<br />

You don’t have to sacrifice between<br />

safety and performance if you still<br />

love the performance and feel of<br />

your C-kite, but crave the safety,<br />

range, and re-launch ability of the<br />

new SLE and bow kites. Designed<br />

specifically for Dimitri’s riding<br />

style, the Thruster provides<br />

enough hang time for him to hit<br />

all his moves at 40 feet - imagine<br />

enough air to execute four tricks<br />

in one jump! <strong>The</strong> Thruster is a<br />

competition-ready hybrid kite that<br />

feels familiar right out of the bag.<br />

<strong>The</strong> complete Thruster package<br />

includes a backcountry backpack, big<br />

pump, tear aid repair kit and the EZ lock<br />

bar system.<br />

Sizes: 10, 12, 14, 16m<br />

MSRP: starting at $1119<br />

eclipsekites.com<br />

eXtrong SportS Surf Runner<br />

<strong>The</strong> new Surf Runner adds another element to kiting<br />

and your fun factor on the water. Super lightweight,<br />

maneuverable and more multi-use oriented than a<br />

traditional kayak, the Surf Runner uses fiberglass<br />

sandwich construction with a high density<br />

Polystyrene core to create the ultimate portable<br />

boat. It can be used for sit-down kitesurfing,<br />

sailing or kayaking. Included with your Surf<br />

Runner is a Soft EVA seat pad, footstraps,<br />

handle and a kite hook. Add on accessories<br />

include mast/sail, the latest C-kite technology<br />

in two kite sizes, and oars.<br />

Sizes: Small to tandem, dependent on weight<br />

MSRP: Starting at $990<br />

extrongsports.com<br />

FleXiFoil Freeride<br />

2007 sees the launch of Flexifoil’s most<br />

complete kitesurf board range to date. <strong>The</strong><br />

Freeride boards have been designed for<br />

all levels of riders and deliver outstanding<br />

performance for the beginner, intermediate<br />

and pro. Both board sizes have excellent flex<br />

characteristics to help cruise through chop<br />

and swell, yet enough pop to enable high<br />

raileys and loading up for massive airs. <strong>The</strong><br />

tip outline has been rounded off to make<br />

slashing waves easier and more fun without<br />

tripping your edge. <strong>The</strong> Freeride boards<br />

cover all conditions. Just choose the size to<br />

suit your weight and ability.<br />

Sizes: 145 x 42, 135 x 40cm<br />

MSRP: $639.99 complete<br />

flexifoilusa.com<br />

72 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 73


product watcH<br />

F-one Legend<br />

F-One introduces a new shape this<br />

year that combines the advantages<br />

of a directional for carving, and a<br />

twin tip so you don’t need to jibe.<br />

Of course, it can be ridden as a<br />

directional, but only if you choose!<br />

Features include x-core wood<br />

reinforcement, comfort monopad,<br />

two 7cm and two 4cm G10 fins, and<br />

super-soft symmetrical footstraps.<br />

Sizes: 163 x 44cm<br />

MSRP: $749 complete<br />

bayareakitesurf.com<br />

gloBe KiteS Trix<br />

<strong>The</strong> Trix is Globe Kite’s newest medium<br />

aspect, semi-SLE Hybrid. Its deeper<br />

profile makes for very steady,<br />

predictable torque and axis-carving<br />

turns for a direct feel in kiteloops<br />

or bottom turns. It’s simple yet<br />

effective bridle design allows<br />

the rider to tune the bar pressure<br />

and turning radius to suit individual<br />

preferences. 100% depower and justlet-go<br />

auto-relaunch comes standard.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 2007 Trix is a wave and wake-style<br />

kite that beginners will learn on easier<br />

because of its predictable character..<br />

Sizes: 7, 9, 11, 12, 15, 17m<br />

MSRP: TBA<br />

litewavedesigns.com<br />

HandiracK Inflatable Roof Rack<br />

This is a unique, inflatable load-carrying roof rack<br />

system that can be fitted and<br />

removed in just a matter of<br />

minutes. Designed to carry<br />

surfboards, kiteboards,<br />

kayaks, or bags, it’s<br />

totally portable, fits<br />

in your luggage and is<br />

interchangeable between<br />

vehicles. Weighing in around 6<br />

lbs, the system includes everything that you<br />

need including a hand pump and<br />

tie-down straps.<br />

Sizes: one size fits all<br />

MSRP: $100<br />

handirackuk.com<br />

Jimmy lewiS Surf<br />

Looking to hit the waves or increase your<br />

light wind fun factor? <strong>The</strong> Jimmy Lewis<br />

Surf is perfectly suited for strapped or<br />

strapless riding. Thin rails make mach<br />

speed turns unbelievably easy. <strong>The</strong> Surf<br />

provides an extremely smooth ride in<br />

open water. Not just for the pros, the<br />

Surf has become one of the best selling<br />

and most popular boards in the JL line<br />

with riders of all abilities.<br />

Sizes: 5’2 x 17.5”, 5’8 x 18.5”, 6’0 x 20”<br />

MSRP: $799<br />

realkiteboarding.com<br />

liQuid Force Liquid Tunes<br />

<strong>The</strong> Liquid Tunes portable waterproof<br />

player can be completely submerged and<br />

comes with built-in 512 or 256MB<br />

Flash memory. Lightweight with<br />

easy–to-use function buttons<br />

and a rechargeable battery for<br />

up to 40 hours of playtime per<br />

charge, the player is compatible<br />

with MP3 along with other common<br />

music formats and comes with a USB<br />

cable, waterproof earbuds, neoprene<br />

armband and 90-day limited warranty.<br />

MSRP: starting at $139.99<br />

liquidforce.com<br />

liQuid Force Pro Harness<br />

LF’s engineering team completely<br />

redesigned the Pro Harness for ‘07. Its<br />

internal 3D molded piece fits riders of<br />

all shapes and sizes. One of the main<br />

features of the new harness is the<br />

left and right side quick release for the<br />

handlepass leash. To release the leash<br />

from the harness, simply pull the left or<br />

the right side release loops. To re-attach the<br />

release system, simply slide the ends back in.<br />

Another unique feature is a molded spreader<br />

bar pad, which features an inner sleeve to<br />

stow away the excess webbing. In the case<br />

of excessive spreader bar webbing wear, it<br />

is now super easy to change it out.<br />

Sizes: S to XL<br />

MSRP: $134.99<br />

liquidforce.com<br />

myStic KiteBoarding<br />

Force Shield Seat Harness<br />

<strong>The</strong> Force Shield is a high performance seat<br />

harness made for the intermediate to advanced<br />

rider who doesn’t want to compromise on<br />

range of motion and new school tricks<br />

while getting the most of the seat harness<br />

type of support. Scoring the highest points in<br />

innovation and design, the award winning Force<br />

Shield system connects the spreader bar to the leg<br />

straps, creating a solid setup that will never ride up. <strong>The</strong> Force<br />

Shield has been adopted by advanced kiters, buggy kiters and<br />

landboarders alike.<br />

Colors: Black/White<br />

Sizes: XS to XXL<br />

MSRP: $129.95<br />

mystickiteboardingusa.com<br />

myStic KiteBoarding<br />

Force Boardshorts<br />

Made from quick-drying durable fabric, the new<br />

Mystic Force boardshorts are sure to be the most<br />

fashionable trunks on the beach this summer.<br />

With typical Mystic focus on comfort and<br />

functionality, these trunks have velcro closures<br />

and pockets to store your keys and money.<br />

Colors: Black/White<br />

Sizes: S to XL<br />

MSRP: $49.95<br />

mystickiteboardingusa.com<br />

ocean rodeo Pyro Surf<br />

<strong>The</strong> Pyro Surf is a skin tight drysuit. Split<br />

Skin Dry Core technology allows this suit<br />

to fit like a glove while keeping you warm<br />

and dry. <strong>The</strong> first of its kind, a form fitting<br />

outer stretch layer delivers a wrinkle-free,<br />

streamlined surface for fast swimming and<br />

incredible mobility, while at the same time<br />

offering abrasion protection to the inner Dry<br />

Core. At less than .05mm thick and made of<br />

two independent layers, the Pyro Surf offers<br />

an unlimited range of motion, comparable to<br />

traditional neoprene suits.<br />

Colors: Black/White<br />

Sizes: S to XL<br />

MSRP: $569<br />

oceanrodeo.com<br />

nortH Rhino<br />

<strong>The</strong> 2007 Rhino represents the combination of<br />

five generations of design. <strong>The</strong> result is an<br />

eight strut, 5-line, bridle-less kite with extra<br />

power for light winds, lots of range, hangtime,<br />

and upwind ability. Testing has shown that<br />

the Rhino 07 fits the bill for many riding styles,<br />

including freeriding, freestyle, speed racing, big<br />

air and hangtime. North bills the new Rhino as<br />

its best jumping kite to date. It includes North’s<br />

patented 2 Pump inflation system for quick rigging.<br />

Sizes: 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16m<br />

MSRP: starting at $1049<br />

northkites.com<br />

naiSH Shockwave<br />

<strong>The</strong> original SLE kite gets a boost for<br />

2007. <strong>The</strong> Shockwave’s high altitude<br />

and instant depower characteristics,<br />

regardless of kite position in the<br />

power window, make it a ‘true’ wave<br />

kite. Aimed at the performance wave<br />

rider and jumper, the new Shockwave<br />

has extended wind range, a refined aspect<br />

ratio, and precise control that will take any kiter to new<br />

heights. It also features faster turning for efficient riding,<br />

and improved water re-launch ability. <strong>The</strong> bar pressure has been<br />

radically reduced compared to the ’06 edition, and is now tuneable<br />

as a result of its new rigging options.<br />

Sizes: 5, 7, 9, 12, 16m<br />

MSRP: TBA<br />

www.naishkites.com<br />

SurFmore Clear Grip<br />

<strong>The</strong> all new Clear Grip traction is a translucent, technomolded<br />

material that allows the user to surf, skim or kite<br />

– wax free! Wax has always had problems with “meltdowns”,<br />

sticking to sand and dirt, and changes in water<br />

temperature. Clear Grip helps solve those problems<br />

since it works in any temperature, remains clean, is a<br />

reasonably non-abrasive surface material, and can even<br />

enhance the use of wax since wax sticks better to Clear<br />

Grip and won’t peel off as it does on smooth surfaces.<br />

Sizes: Die cut and packaged in 4 pieces – 10.8 inches x 18 inches<br />

MSRP: $34<br />

surfmorexm.com<br />

SlingSHot Turbo 2<br />

<strong>The</strong> newly, redesigned Turbo 2 is a 4-line bow kite with<br />

its own proprietary DNA. <strong>The</strong> kite delivers all<br />

the rider requirements of range, instant<br />

depower, boosting, re-launch ability and<br />

stability making it a great, all-around<br />

kite for riders of all levels. <strong>The</strong> Turbo<br />

2 features a redesigned swept<br />

leading edge and canopy shape,<br />

Neoprene seam guards (an industry<br />

first), wing tip scuff guards, a no<br />

stretch bridle system with 2 to 1 pulleys on the<br />

bar, no wear spectra pulley and leader lines, and a new bar.<br />

Sizes: 6, 7, 9, 11, 14, 17m<br />

MSRP: starting at $1249 complete<br />

sskiteboarding.com<br />

SlingSHot Control Bar<br />

Re-engineered for 2007, Slingshot’s 4-Line Full<br />

Stroke Bar achieves 100% depower simply by<br />

pushing the bar away from you and effectively<br />

sheeting out. <strong>The</strong> bar comes complete with the new<br />

Turbo 2 kite, making it the perfect combination to<br />

achieve the utmost in stability, re-launch ability and<br />

depower. Key features include a new Aluminum<br />

power steering dug out which helps to reduce bar<br />

pressure, increase turning speed and prevent wear<br />

and tear on the chicken loop line; below the bar<br />

depower for easy and convenient access; an active<br />

stopper ball for on-the-fly adjustments; super grip<br />

leader lines; and a center flying-line safety system.<br />

Sizes: 17, 20, 23m<br />

MSRP: starting at $390.00 complete<br />

sskiteboarding.com<br />

74 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 75


yardSale<br />

tHe top craSHeS<br />

got a great wipe out shot? email ryan@thekiteboarder.com<br />

Tommy “<strong>The</strong> Stallion” Trozera gets pummeled in the Southern<br />

California shore break. Photo Greg Banner<br />

Eddie Hall’s hand placement on the bar predicts the worst is yet to<br />

come. Photo Carol Bolstad<br />

Grom hits the ejection button during this kiteloop gone wrong. Photo Carol Bolstad<br />

Josh “bulldog” Nehf doing the no-handed<br />

swimmer. Photo Kim Kern<br />

Lou Waimman loves the freedom of kiting in his birthday suit and no harness.<br />

Photo courtesy of Lou Wainman<br />

Billy Blackman beaches himself. Photo Gerry Smith<br />

Kite pageS<br />

caliFornia<br />

Action Watersports<br />

(318) 827-2233 CA<br />

Aquan Watersport<br />

(650)593-6060 CA<br />

Board Sports<br />

(510) THE-WAVE CA<br />

Board Sports<br />

(415) 929-SURF CA<br />

CaliKites<br />

(619) 522-9575 CA<br />

Captain Kirk’s<br />

(310) 833-3397 CA<br />

Delta Windsurf Company<br />

(831) 429-6051 CA<br />

Helm Sports<br />

(650 )344-2711 CA<br />

Inflight Surf and Sail<br />

(562) 493-3661 CA<br />

Kite Country<br />

(619) 226-4421 CA<br />

Kitesurfari<br />

(562) 596-6451 CA<br />

KiteWindSurf<br />

(510) 522-WIND CA<br />

Live2Kite<br />

(415) 722-7884 CA<br />

Long Beach Windsurf Center<br />

(562) 433-1014 CA<br />

Mako Surf Skate Snow<br />

(949) 367-1300 CA<br />

Malibu Kitesurfing<br />

(310) 430-KITE CA<br />

Manta Wind & Water Sports<br />

(858) 270-7222 CA<br />

Mission Bay Aquatic Center<br />

(858) 488-1000 CA<br />

Monkey Air<br />

(310) 457-6896 CA<br />

Murrays<br />

(800) 786-7245 x23 CA<br />

Offshore Surf Co<br />

(760) 729-4934 CA<br />

OOTO Kite School<br />

(650) 960-1721 CA<br />

Soul Performance<br />

(310) 370-1428 CA<br />

Sky Kitesurfing School<br />

(925) 455-4008 CA<br />

VELA<br />

(800) 223-5443 CA<br />

West Coast Kiteboarding<br />

(619) 813-2230 CA<br />

Wind over Water Kiteboarding<br />

(650) 218-6023 CA<br />

Windsport<br />

(619) 488-4642 CA<br />

Kite Island<br />

(925) 212-2915 CA<br />

Xdream Sportz<br />

(858)481-9283 CA<br />

Xstreamline Sports<br />

(310) 518-1972 CA<br />

Xtreme Big Air<br />

(805) 773-9200 CA<br />

colorado<br />

Colorado Kite Force<br />

(970)4853300 CO<br />

GAYLAN’S<br />

(720) 887-0900 CO<br />

Into the Wind<br />

(303) 449-5906 CO<br />

Larson’s Ski and Sport<br />

(303) 423-0654 CO<br />

Fuze Kiteboarding<br />

(303) 683-5033 CO<br />

PKS<br />

(970) 376-3159 CO<br />

connecticut<br />

Orbit Marine Sports<br />

(203) 333-3483 CT<br />

Tri State Kites<br />

(800) 510-0865 CT<br />

Florida<br />

Emerald Coast Kiteboarding<br />

(850) 235-2444 FL<br />

Learn 2 Fly<br />

(386) 986-9637 FL<br />

7 Kiteboarding<br />

(305) 664-4055 FL<br />

Ace Performer<br />

(239) 489-3513 FL<br />

Big Kite Miami<br />

(305) 303- 4107 FL<br />

East Coast Kiteboarding<br />

(954) 295-5778 FL<br />

Extreme Kites<br />

(904) 461-9415 FL<br />

Extreme Sports<br />

(321) 779-4228 FL<br />

Jupiter Kiteboarding<br />

(561) 373-4445 FL<br />

Ft. Lauderdale Kitesurfing Co.<br />

(954) 410-5419 FL<br />

Hydrotherapy<br />

(850) 236-1800 FL<br />

Island Style Wind & Watersports<br />

(941) 954-1009 FL<br />

Island Surf and Sail<br />

(954) 927-7002 FL<br />

Kite Surf the Earth<br />

(888) 819-5483 FL<br />

Kite World<br />

(321) 725-8336 FL<br />

Liquid Surf & Sail<br />

(850) 664-5731 FL<br />

KiteMare<br />

(877) 829-0015 FL<br />

Miami Kiteboarding Inc.<br />

(305) 345-9974 FL<br />

Sandy Point Progressive Sports<br />

(386) 756-7564 FL<br />

Sea & Sky Sports<br />

(850) 598-3735 FL<br />

Ski Rixen<br />

(954) 429-0215 FL<br />

Tampa Bay Kiteboarding<br />

(727) 798-2484 FL<br />

Waterplay<br />

(800) 841-1225 FL<br />

Watersports West<br />

(888) 401-5080 FL<br />

Xrated Kiteboarding<br />

(888) 401-5080 FL<br />

georgia<br />

High Tide Surf Shop<br />

(912) 786-6556 GA<br />

Locus Kiteboarding<br />

(404) 509-4229 GA<br />

Hanag20 Kiteboarding<br />

(912) 223-7856 GA<br />

Hawaii<br />

Action Sports Maui<br />

(808) 871-5857 HI<br />

Aloha Kiteboarding Academy<br />

(808) 637-5483 HI<br />

Caveman Kitesurfing<br />

(808) 389-4004 HI<br />

Extreme Sports Maui<br />

(808) 871-7954 HI<br />

Hawaiian Island Surf and Sport<br />

(808) 871-4981 HI<br />

Hawaiian Watersports<br />

(808) 262-KITE HI<br />

Hawaiian Surf & Sail<br />

(808) 637-5373 HI<br />

Kailua Sailboards<br />

(808) 262-2555 HI<br />

Kite High<br />

(808) 637-5483 HI<br />

Kiteboard Center<br />

(808) 276-2667 HI<br />

Kiteboard Maui<br />

(808) 870-2554 HI<br />

Hawaiian Ocean Sports<br />

(866) 488-5483 HI<br />

Kitesurf Maui<br />

(808) 873-0015 HI<br />

Maui Kiteboarding Lessons<br />

(808) 242-8015 HI<br />

Naish Hawaii<br />

(808) 262-6068 HI<br />

Off Da Lip<br />

(808) 255-6255 HI<br />

Second Wind<br />

(808) 877-7467 HI<br />

Vela Maui<br />

(800) 223-5443 HI<br />

idaHo<br />

Groud Zero<br />

(208) 265-6714 ID<br />

Fly Sun Valley<br />

(208) 726-3332 ID<br />

illinoiS<br />

Windward Sports<br />

(773) 472-6868 IL<br />

Chicago <strong>Kiteboarder</strong><br />

(312) 804-5482 IL<br />

maSSacHuSettS<br />

Air Support Kiteboarding<br />

(866) Kite-Cod MA<br />

Kitesite.net<br />

(508) 398-1333<br />

Skyhigh Kiteboarding School<br />

(508) 259-2728 MA<br />

Wind, Snow and H20<br />

(508) 775-7756 MA<br />

maryland<br />

H2AIR Productions<br />

(302) 227-1105 MD<br />

micHigan<br />

Broneah Kiteboarding<br />

(231) 392-2212 MI<br />

Detroit Kiteboarding<br />

(248) 245-5016 MI<br />

76 thekiteboarder.com thekiteboarder.com 77


KITE PAGES<br />

Grand Bay Kite Co<br />

(231) 929-0607 MI<br />

Great Lakes Kiteboarding<br />

(586) 822-6511 MI<br />

MacInaw Kite Co.<br />

(800) 622-4655 MI<br />

Sharkless Kiteboarding<br />

(269) 639-SURF MI<br />

Uncle Doug’s Kiteboarding<br />

(810) 985-3732 MI<br />

MInnESoTA<br />

Scuba Center Wind/Kite<br />

(612) 925-4818 MN<br />

US Snowkite School<br />

(612) 940-6639 MN<br />

Midwest Mountaineering<br />

(612)3393433 MN<br />

LAKAWA Kiteboarding<br />

(651) 428-4121 MN<br />

MISSISSIPPI<br />

Get Air<br />

(228) 209-1204 MS<br />

Gulfport Winds<br />

(228) 864-7517 MS<br />

norTh CArolInA<br />

Blowing in the Wind<br />

(910) 763-1730 NC<br />

Cape Fear Kiteboarding<br />

(910) 201-4002 NC<br />

Crystal Coast Kiteboarding<br />

(910) 467-2007 NC<br />

Kiteboarding Hatteras<br />

(252) 995-5000 NC<br />

Kitty Hawk Kiteboarding Centers<br />

(877) FLY-THIS NC<br />

Real Kiteboarding<br />

(866) 732-5548 NC<br />

Wind Toys USA<br />

(910)328-5483 NC<br />

nEw hAMPShIrE<br />

Powerline Sports<br />

(888) 987-WIND NH<br />

nEw JErSEy<br />

Extreme Windsurfing<br />

(610) 807-9493 NJ<br />

Green Hat Kiteboarding<br />

(718) 577-1256 NJ<br />

Heritage Surf & Sport<br />

(609) 263-3033<br />

Island Surf and Sail<br />

NJ<br />

(609) 494-5553<br />

nEvAdA<br />

Kitesurf Vegas<br />

NJ<br />

(702) 493-9245<br />

Windsports<br />

NV<br />

(702) 220-4340<br />

nEw yorK<br />

Curtis Sport Connection<br />

NV<br />

(716) 627-2247<br />

Main Beach Surf & Sports<br />

NY<br />

(631) 537-2716<br />

Myers<br />

NY<br />

(716) 751-6511<br />

Skywalk Kiteboarding<br />

NY<br />

(631) 324 - 4450<br />

Windsurfing Hamptons<br />

NY<br />

(613) 283-9463<br />

RICK’S SURF SHOP<br />

NY<br />

(631)581-9424<br />

Kitewise<br />

NY<br />

(646) 734-3027<br />

ohIo<br />

Red Sky Surf And Snow<br />

NY<br />

(419) 536-3204<br />

River Sports<br />

OH<br />

(440) 333-8138<br />

oKlAhoMA<br />

Thomasons Sports Kites<br />

OH<br />

(580) 796-2359<br />

orEGon<br />

2nd Wind Sports<br />

OK<br />

(541) 386-4464<br />

Air-Time<br />

OR<br />

(541) 387 3910<br />

Alll Surf Industries<br />

OR<br />

(503) 239-8973<br />

Big Winds<br />

OR<br />

(888) 509-4210 OR<br />

Brian’s Windsurfing/Kitesurfing<br />

(541) 386-1423<br />

Cleanline Surf<br />

OR<br />

(888) 546-6176<br />

Floras Lake Windsurfing<br />

OR<br />

(541) 348-9912<br />

Gorge Surf Shop<br />

OR<br />

(800) 957-4978<br />

Hood River Waterplay<br />

OR<br />

(541) 386-WIND<br />

Kite-Line<br />

OR<br />

(888) 714-9849<br />

Lincoln City Surf Shop<br />

OR<br />

(541) 996-7433<br />

New Wind<br />

OR<br />

(541) 387-2440<br />

Pacific Wave<br />

OR<br />

(503) 861-0866<br />

Storm Warning<br />

OR<br />

(800) 492-6309<br />

PuErTo rICo<br />

Kitesurfing Puerto Rico<br />

OR<br />

(787) 728-8716<br />

KitesurfingPR<br />

PR<br />

(787) 374-5329<br />

rhodE ISlAnd<br />

Northwind Sports<br />

PR<br />

(401) 254-4295<br />

SouTh CArolInA<br />

Half Moon Outfitters<br />

RI<br />

(843) 881-9472<br />

Catch Some Air<br />

SC<br />

(843) 388-9300<br />

SouTh dAKoTA<br />

Pro Peak Sports<br />

SC<br />

(605) 341-5445<br />

TExAS<br />

Air Padre Kiteboarding<br />

SD<br />

(956) 299-WIND<br />

Kitesurf Texas<br />

TX<br />

(361) 937-5000<br />

Pro Kitesurf<br />

TX<br />

(361) 883-1473<br />

South Coast Kiteboarding<br />

TX<br />

(361) 949-3278 TX<br />

S. Padre Island Kiteboarding<br />

(956) 245-8343<br />

S. Padre Kiteboarding<br />

TX<br />

(956) 761-1434<br />

Warming Hut Ski & Board<br />

TX<br />

(972) 234-6088 TX<br />

WPS<br />

(713) 291-9199 TX<br />

Zero Gravity Kiteboarding<br />

(361) 949-0266 TX<br />

uTAh<br />

Cloud 9 Soaring Ctr<br />

(801) 576-6460 UT<br />

vIrGInIA<br />

Southeast Expeditions<br />

(877) 943-8548 VA<br />

wAShInGTon<br />

North by Northwest Surf Co.<br />

(360) 452-5144 WA<br />

Seattle Kiteboarding Center<br />

(206) 779-3272 WA<br />

Urban Surf<br />

(206)545-9463 WA<br />

Wiley’s Water Ski Shop<br />

(206) 762-1300 WA<br />

Wind Flow<br />

(877) 211-3524 WA<br />

Evo<br />

{206) 973-4470 WA<br />

Bellingham Kiteboarding<br />

(360) 441-7577 WA<br />

wISConSIn<br />

Coontail Watersports<br />

(715) 385-0250 WI<br />

Kite-Riders (608) 273-1817 WI<br />

Southport Rigging Company<br />

(262) 652-5434 WI<br />

<strong>The</strong> Board Shop<br />

(262) 248-1703 WI<br />

wyoMInG<br />

Hoback Sports<br />

(307) 733-5335 WY<br />

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82 thekiteboarder.com

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