Kitesoul Magazine #20 English Edition

Photo Credit: WKL Courtesy
KITESURFING COMPETITIONS,
LIKE PICNICS WITH FRIENDS
Poor but awesome, why? Well, because it is still a genuine sport, powered only by the
sheer passion of those who practice it, because it is not yet contaminated by any power
games that would oppress it, humiliate it and make it a market product. Because
money is short and doping doesn't exist. Because the athletes that compete know
each other, share the journeys, train together and although during competitions they
give one another a good trashing, out of the water they are friends, support each other
and feel part of a big family. Because these champions are not full of themselves and
when you meet them they stop and chat, give you tips and take pictures with you. Just
turn to any competition, even a world level one and you will breathe this authentic
atmosphere, quite simple and beautiful. Imagine entering the AC Milan or Juventus
locker rooms and just stand there commenting on the game with the players, maybe
making jokes and having a beer.
TODAY'S KITERS LIKE
PILOTS OF THE 60S
Today, competitive kitesurfing recalls the outsets of other mythical and much more
popular sports such as motorcycle races, when the circuit paddocks were open to
everyone, the teams slept in camper-vans and in the evening, after showering, the
pilots would share sausages and steaks on the barbecue. Different times, different
values but things are different in that world too now. Things change, develop, that's
life, that's fine.
Maybe one a day competitive kitesurfing will become a rich sport. Hopefully. For now
though, let's just enjoy it the way it is.
David Ingiosi