PlacesPlaces toto RideRide 88 Chris Gilbert inin thethe NorthwestNorthwest Photo Christian Pondella

HOW December 2004 TO Launch from a Boat 12 Plus: Florida Hurricanes, USA $5.95 Oregon Snowkiting & Exploring Mauritius 0 7447004392 8 2 3 On a whole other level. Guillaume Chastagnol. Photo Bertrand Boone

Contents December 2004

Features

38 Northern Exposure Brian Wheeler takes us to eight of his favorite places to ride in the Northwest.

48 Exposed

A photo essay of the kiteboarding lifestyle.

46 The Legend of Jim Bones

Adam Koch explores the life of veteran waterman Jim Bones.

58 Journey into the Indian Ocean: The Island of Mauritius Felix Pivec, Julian Sudrat and José Luengo travel to the island just off Africa. DepartmentsDepartments

14 Launch Ten of the world’s best riders get together in Cape Hatteras to build the world’s biggest kiteboarding rail. 34 Close-up Bertrand Fleury and Bri Chmel 70 Analyze This Up close and personal with some of the latestlatest gear.gear. 72 Academy 10 Skim Board Tips to Help you Rip Cover Shot Tweak McCore Chris Gilbert launches off the USS Lexington in Corpus Christie, Texas. 81 Tweak McCore Photo Christian Pondella Contents Shot California’s C-street local Corky Cullen stretching out a Japan air. Photo Jason Wolcott Photo Tracy Kraft

Double Check

My phone rang the other day and it was my best friend telling me the wind was cranking at our local spot. Running around like a chicken with its head cut off, I threw my 15-meter kite and gear into the truck and made the quick rush down to the beach through 30 minutes of traffic. As I got closer to the spot I could faintly make out my friend’s kite on the skyline. My adrenalin started to rush. As I parked my truck, I opened the tailgate and started pulling out my kite gear. My wetsuit, my kite, my board, my bar and my ! Wait a minute ? Where is my harness? I continued to tear everything out of the back of my truck in a panic. I couldn’t find my harness. I left it in the shed at home. I hung my head in disbelief. My session was done. I decided to walk out to the beach to see if I could borrow a harness. The local crew was running around like mad pumping kites and trying to get on the water. No one had a spare harness or the time to talk about it. There was nothing I could do. I launched a few kites, walked back to my truck and start- ed the long journey home. I am writing this so you can learn from my painful mistake. I can’t tell you how frustrated I was sitting there watching my friends having an all-time session. The moral of the story is simple. Double check to make sure you have all your gear before heading to the beach.

Ryan Riccitelli [email protected]

10 I only read The Kiteboarder

for the pictures. 100% Kiteboarder Owned and Operated — xoxo Amanda December 2004 • Volume 1 • Number 2

EDITOR RYAN RICCITELLI [email protected]

ART DIRECTOR JAMES BROWN

TECHNICAL ADVISOR GARY MARTIN SUBSCRIBE SAFETY EDITOR RICK IOSSI

ILLUSTRATOR CARL LOS PRESTON

EDITORIAL INTERN BRIAN WHEELER

EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Neil Hutchinson, Damien Wright, Joe Bidawid, Lou Wainman, Matt Nuzzo, Casey Houtz, Trip Foreman, Paul Menta, Kevin Top Hat Senn, Nick Bowers, Greg Gnecco, Jay Crawford, Buck Ashcraft, Zach Kleppe

CONTRIBUTORS James Brown, Greg Gnecco, Neil Hutchinson, Rick Iossi, Gary Martin, Carl Preston, Adam Koch, Joe Bidawid, Bertrand Fleury, Bri Chmel, Casey Houtz, Matt Nuzzo, Felix Pivec, Alexis Rovira, Marina Chang, Bryan Lake

PHOTOGRAPHY Stephen Whitesell, Tracy Kraft, Paul Jav, Jeff Pfeffer, Mike Ellis, John Bilderback, Greg Gnecco, Adam Koch, Dave Smith, Bill Mieckle, Jason Wolcott, Christian Pondella, Clay Rogers, Robert Vreeland, Dan Sherwood, Charles Oreve, Dustin Penman, Michelle Zuniga, Clark Merritt, Todd Norby, Alexi Rovira, Lou Wainman, Karen Bureker, Denis Poroy, Trent Pederson, James Brown, Kim Kern, John Carter, Bertrand Boone, Gary Martin, Jonathon Baker, Mike Stephen, Keith Edwards.

Thanks to all editorial and photography contributors for supporting our magazine.

SUBSCRIPTIONS [email protected]

PUBLISHER MARINA CHANG (805) 801-0036 [email protected]

BRAD LANGE [email protected] Buy a year subscription CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS (6 issues) & 2005 Kiteboard 1050 Chinquapin Ave #2 • Carlsbad, CA 92008 Calendar for $29.99. Save $24 MOUNTAIN STATES OFFICE 1360 S. Ivy Way • Denver, CO 80224 Limited time offer! INTERNET Order online at www.kbmag.com WWW.KBMAG.COM These guys had the drive and desire to “build something bigger and badder than ever before in this sport and then charged it. - Gregg Gnecco LAUNCH Camel Toe Photographer ” The

CamelStory and Photos by Gregg Gnecco To e Slider Moehau Goold fearlessly charges the Camel Toe. the Ulti mate Location: Building REAL Slider Park — at The Slick — Cape Hatteras, NC Riders: Jason Slezak, Sam Bell, Andre Phillip, Bertrand Fleury, Jeff Tobias, Moe Goold, Davey Blair, Stav Niarchos, Kai Lorusso, Andrew Doyle Summary: One summer afternoon in Cape Hatteras, 10 of the world’s best free riders decided to build a ridiculously big slider. It took them a few days, but they conquered their goal and the Camel Toe rail was born. The Camel Toe is currently the largest rail ever to be built for kiteboarding. Tobias and Slezak techin out about the sliding Bertrand and Stav team up to unload supplies. Jeff from Dare Building Supply properties of the plastic-vinyl fence rail. loads the Red REAL Ranger while The Facts: Slezy and Beaver inspect the beams. 1 The Camel Toe is 60’ and 16’ High at the center with an 8 wide plastic-vinyl sliding surface. 2 Jason Slezak’s body (ribs and 1 vertebrae aside) is more durable than a section of pressure treated 2x4. 3 The REAL Slider Park is recognized and registered by the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Group (CAMA) as well as the U.S. Coast Guard. 4 REAL actually used the name Camel Toe while registering the structure with the US Coast Guard.

15 LAUNCHLAUNCHLAUNCHLAUNCH LAUNCHLAUNCHLA

Andre Phillip reflects Style master, Andre Phillip gets the shot of the day. Building the Kiteboarding rail engineering on the days events. at it’s finest. As night fell, the Halogens lit up Ultimate Slider and the work continued. Working into the evening connecting the top rail.

The boys try to get organized.

Square on the rail, Jason Slezak makes it look easy.

New face in the crowd, Wood hurts. Kai Lorusso, shows some South Carolina style. “- Jason Slezak Liquid Force Team” Rider

Bertrand Fluery styles out a front side board slide.

To actually approach it and “look at it (riding) was a lot different than looking at it on land- it was pretty scary - We knew that someone was going to go down on it. - Jeff Tobias Slingshot Team Rider”

Jeff, Ben, Andre and Bertrand Jeff Tobias takes donuts. make final adjustments.

Jeff Tobias serves as water taxi. The crew levels the rail.

Wipe Out Awards: 1st Place- Jason Slezak- 3 Broken Ribs, 1 Cracked Vertebrae 2nd Place- Jeff Tobias- Camel Toe to butt slide 3rd place- Moe Gould- Check out the LF Relentless video… 411411 News and Information

Dimitri Maramenides rides Hurricane Francis off Nags Head. Photo Bill Mielcke

The East Coast recently took a beating — four hurricanes hitting one state in a year, actually in less than 6 weeks. Last time this happened was 118 years ago. The following is the perspective of contributing editor Rick Iossi during the hurricane.

By Rick Iossi Hurricane Jeanne over Florida The crew took the day off to go surfing. Jeanne Charley Photo Dena Pelletier I am writing on the eve of Hurricane Jeanne’s visit to Florida. Lots of us are won- There are times with hurricanes when everything comes together. We are talking intense dering what tomorrow will bring and have tried to secure things the best we can. life or death riding — big waves and high wind. We had an afternoon like that off SE Florida isn’t alone in this hurricane slam-fest. Lots of people have had to deal with Florida the day before Charley demolished Punta Gorda on the SW coast, Friday the 13th this season of devastation — and it is not over yet. no less. We crave wind but sometimes there is a price to be paid. Some of the hurricanes approached as Category V storms, like Ivan packing winds I decided to go off the beach of Delray, Florida with an 11m kite completely depowered. over 165 mph. That will get you thinking, if anything can. Confronting something After a couple of hours, the building wind made me rig a smaller kite. Being overpow- that can erase your home, place of work and even your life can motivate some ered if something goes wrong can really trash your day. So, in 45 minutes, I went from introspection. That is between exhausting bouts of preparing for, sitting out the an 11m to a 5m kite. There was one other guy out, a fellow 40 lbs. heavier than me also raging of the storms, cleanup after, trying to restore normal living absent power. on a 5m. Favorite haunts are closed, phones don’t work, normal foods are unavailable and As the waves were breaking double overhead about a mile off shore with two other finding widespread power and cool air nothing but a memory. This has been the breaker lines closer to shore, the wind was blowing around 25 to 35 knots. There were story of my life for the last few weeks. no hurricane feeder bands or squalls on the color radar or visible over the ocean during So what does this have to do with kiteboarding? Nothing and everything. that session of fairly steady winds. This is unusual to say the least. We had some of the You would think that hurricanes bring LOTS of wind. Actually, not really much of best winds in three years that afternoon, before Charley nailed the SW coast. the time! The winds may be too light before, after and even during the hurricane Hurricane season in South Florida is no joke on or off the water. As I sit in the midst of a say if it passes to the east of you. Then again, hurricanes can vomit violent squalls storm these words come to mind. Life is for living, know your game, ride responsibly and that can loft you to China or at least to the ER, if you allow it to happen. savor the odd incredible session when it comes your way. For better or worse, hurricane riding seems to be here to stay for a while. Still, I am craving those clean, powerful fall 18 cold front winds. The strong fronts should spell an end to this hurricane riding season. 19 411411 News and Information 411411 News and Information

Film crews on the scene in La Paguera, Puerto Rico. Project Kitehouse: Puerto Rico Photo Cineforce Another perspective of Adam Hollywood, CA based CineForce Films has just wrapped a 10 day Kiteboarding shoot on Lexington Koch’s launch. the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. The incredibly talented and diverse group of riders included Damien Leroy, Bri Chmel, Andy Hurdman, Renee Hanks, Jason Slezak, Julie Story by Adam Koch Photos by Christian Pondella Simsar, Sam Bell, Laurel Eastman, Antoine Jaubert, Cameron Dietrich, Nina Johanson, Scott Harwood, Top Hat, and Paul Menta. The nine person film crew captured a fresh perspective on the evolving sport of Kiteboarding while highlighting the athletes involved. Kitehouse: Puerto Rico is scheduled to hit the market with an early 2005 debut, setting a new standard for all Kiteboarding DVDs. From the Water to the air it will be filled with action and insight about the sport. For more information www.cineforcefilms.com

Kitebeaches.com Goes Mobile If you haven’t visited www.kitebeaches.com, then you should check it out. This isn’t a sales pitch for the site. We just think it’s a great resource for kiteboarders and with more people visiting the site, the information will only become more accurate. Kitebeaches.com is a free database site with information on hundreds of kiteboarding spots Robby Naish lifts around the world. Kitebeaches.com breaks down each launch giving you a complete spot check. Kitebeaches.com off the Lexington. even took it another step and went mobile. Now you can access the site through your cell phone or PDA. Check out www.kitebeaches.com.

Operation: Red Bull, USS Lexington Huck. Three kiteboarders launch off the deck of the USS Lexington aircraft carrier docked in King of the Bay Competition Corpus Christi. Average Joe Location: Corpus Christi, Texas Attracts Big Name Riders Background: This project was inspired by the By Steve Gibson Don’t be afraid to 50 foot cliff huck in Barbados featured on the DVD, "13 Daze". get involved. Suspects: Adam Koch, Robby Naish and By Alexis Rovira Chris Gilbert Summary: Knowing your skill level and being realistic with what you can do is the first Launching off the Lexington was incredible. step in the whole safety process. As a kiter, no matter what level of rider you Robby did some original Naish signature table are, it’s your responsibility to make sure that you and the people around you tops into 360’s. Chris boosted some airs well above follow all rules and safety precautions. I know a lot of people out there that will say screw you, Kook! You don’t know me, my crew or my spot. Who are you the deck level with poked tail grabs. to tell me what to do? I don’t remember what I did. I was so pumped with adrenaline. This is the attitude that will get your spot banned. If you haven’t heard, or seen I know that I did some g-forced kite loops that stretched my lines. it on TV, or read any of the main outdoor magazines, kiteboarding is the fastest Some of my jumps I was fine at the beginning, but my kite kept over growing extreme sport in the US. They say it is growing faster than skateboard- flying me which made me have to loop my kite in survival mode. My landing ing, surfing and any other extreme sport out there. So, what do we do? ratio was like — stuck two, and biffed on six. Not perfect, but what a rush! It’s very simple. We need to start working together to self-regulate ourselves Conclusion: before someone ends up regulating us. I would hate to get to a point where we In the end we all had a blast and learned absolutely nothing. It made for a great story Women’s podium 2nd - Julie Simsar, have to remember all the places that we used to ride but now can’t. Ben Kleppe traveled from Gulf Breeze, 1st - Bri Chmel 3rd - Rebecca Wolthers. and a great never try this at home chant. Florida to compete. Photo Robert Vreeland Photo Robert Vreeland Here are some ideas that you can do to ensure your spot doesn’t get canceled. • Get involved with your local club or association. If you don’t have one, Sept 14, 2004 — After two days of no wind, the final day of the King of Bay IV com- start one. petition brought plenty of sunshine, 15-20 mph winds and nonstop in-your-face action • Talk to anyone you see doing something unsafe. from top ranked US and international professional riders. In the end Aaron Hadlow, PKRA ranked number 1 for 2004 beat Damien Leroy in the final with multiple back to • Urge clueless beginners to take lessons. back technical moves and a HUGE handle-pass to kite loop attempt. Bri Chmel won the • Make copies of any number of kite safety guidelines found online and give women’s pro kite with the same caliber technical moves that the men scored with including lightning fast kite loops and transitions. Julie Simsar finished second. it to anyone you think needs it. Organized by Helm Sports, the Foster City, California event wowed the crowds as Alexis Rovira has been riding for one year and lives in San Diego, California. He will be writing his personal spectators were treated to the best of the best throwing it down, competing for the tips that have helped him progress as a recreational kiteboarder. If you have any questions for him, please right to claim the Bay area’s King and Queen titles. Check out www.helmsports.com. email [email protected] 20 The Lexington dwarfs Adam Koch and best illustrates the height of the carrier deck. 21 411411 News and Information

Thanks to everyone who wrote us an email these last few months. Your support has been great. The letter section can get boring, so send us a note and/or photo to [email protected] and let Letters us know what’s on your mind. You might just see it in the next magazine.

■ Substance Abuse ■ Lou Wainman Revisited ■ From a Friend of Senator Kerry Dear Editor: Dear Editor: Dear Editor: Excellent job with the new magazine! You guys includ- I wanted to tell you how impressed I am with the While recklessly sailing America into the riptide of Iraq, ed lots of great photos, the articles had some substance magazine. In particular, the interview with Lou the Bush campaign now runs a negative ad featuring and the thing is packed full of interesting content. And, Wainman is the single best interview I’ve ever read in John Kerry on a windsurfer, implying that modifying most importantly, it doesn’t read like it’s targeted at the any kiteboarding magazine (and I’ve read them all). one’s course when the wind changes is the same as teenage wakeboarding/snowboarding crowd. Most of the writers at the various kiteboarding maga- sailing without a chart. Obviously Bush/Cheney are as out to sea on seamanship as they are on statesman- Finally, there is a kiteboarding magazine on par with the zines approach pro-rider interviews as a fan would approach a celebrity athlete. They really never ask the ship. A competent windsurfer must be able to adapt to very readable Surfer or American Windsurfer. I think it is changing wind and waves, and trim his sail accordingly. a big improvement over Kiteboarding. tough questions and use most of the interview to praise the riders and talk about their talents (basical- There is no doubt that the war against terrorism will Keep up the good work! ly kissing butt). But the Lou Wainman interview is continue to be a long struggle upwind, against vicious Jim awesome. It’s very professional yet entertaining at the currents. However, you can’t sail upwind without cor- rect adjustments and properly timed tacks. The sailor Longtime windsurfer. Short time kiteboarder — but I same time. Ryan isn’t afraid to ask the tough ques- who can’t (or won’t) tack is the one who drifts hope- tions that might have pissed Lou off, and the result is love it! lessly out to sea. a superior article. Can you believe we didn’t make this email up. Thanks for We want a president who is sensitive — yes, sensitive — your nice words. We are just a group of kiteboarders trying You deserve a lot of credit for your approach. I only to changing conditions and who can bring us to safe to make a cool magazine. This issue is stocked full of info. hope that you use this same method with all future harbor by making timely and appropriate adjustments We hope you enjoy. Tell a friend to subscribe at interviews. Readers would get a lot more out of them in course. We do NOT want a president who is only www.kbmag.com.— Ed. than the usual puff pieces. I want to see more inter- capable of staying the WRONG course and sailing us off ■ views like this with both pro-riders and gear manu- the edge of the earth. Tweakers Unite facturers. They need to realize that the average kite- Nevin Sayre, Vineyard Haven, MA Dear Editor: boarder isn’t some kid on the beach who hasn’t Nevin Sayre is five-time U.S. National Windsurfing Champion Congrats to Carl Preston on the Tweak McCore comic developed the ability to distinguish gossip magazines in the September issue. I’d pretty much decided to quit from "hard-nosed journalism." While kids represent Nevin was recently seen Kiteboarding in Martha’s Vineyard on teaching friends, and his strip parodying poor lessons the future of our sport, most of the riders I know are a 20 meter kite with Vote John Kerry written across in big let- put the last nail in the coffin. like me... they are educated and have decent jobs that ters. Nevin has also helped teach the presidential nominee to I taught others to kite to be friendly and to build the allow them to buy all this expensive gear. People like kiteboard and windsurf. Despite anyone’s political beliefs we sport. I enjoy working with folks, and kiting isn’t all this read newspapers and have opinions... and really had to print this letter.— Ed. that complicated. appreciate a well written piece. I think you’ll do more ■ for the sport in general and your magazine in particu- Soul Rider But over time, I noticed my lessons were falling short. lar with more articles like the Lou Wainman interview. Dear Editor: I’d lose track of where people were, and they’d forget Thanks for taking the time to read my comments, and Aloha and thanks for running the cover shot of me and stuff explained a week or two ago. I always wanted the interview. I couldn’t believe it. The whole maga- them to make some progress at each session so I’d best of luck with the new magazine. You’re off to a great start. zine looks great and everyone seems to be saying the teach even in marginal conditions. same thing at the beach park. Keep up the good work I still offer advice on appropriate sites/conditions for Andrew and thanks again beginners. But if they want to learn to kite, they’re MAHALO! Thanks for your comments on the Lou interview and thanks going to have to sign up for legitimate lessons now. Skip Wunderlich Keep up the good work for giving us credit for our approach. We are tailoring our edi- torial toward the average kiteboarder. As you may know we Bill Burch, D.C. are 100% kiteboarder owned an operated. Our future edito- Skip is the ultimate soul rider from Oahu. We featured the 38 rial will maintain the same to the point approach. We know year old from Oahu on our Sept issue cover getting a nice lit- We are glad to hear that Tweak has had such a positive our readers appreciate it.— Ed. tle cover up. All his friends say he is the king of style and is influence on someone. Keep an eye on Tweak for special a legend in the waves. The real thanks go to you Skip. Keep appearances by new characters. We think you are going to up the good work. — Ed. love it.— Ed

Tips from 1. Always respect the locals wherever you ride. 4. Know your level and experience before you 2. Make sure you double check your gear before try and ride new spots and conditions. The TOP launching. 5. Kite with a friend. It’s more fun and you can 3. Always look behind you before you try a look out for each other. By Kevin “Top Hat” Senn move or drop into a wave. This will ensure no 6. Tell your mother you love her. one is getting cut off. 411411 News and Information Shop Talk Pacific Wave SMACK Location: Warrenton, OR Website: www.kiteworld.net Industry News and Gossip Telephone: (866) 548-3967 Fully Stocked Shop. Ben Colliander Litewave Designs recently spon- Address: Pacific Wave, 21 Hwy 101, Warrenton, OR 97146 Sam Bell. Photo Christie Colgate sored Cape Hatteras based Sam Manager: Ben Colliander Bell. During the recent Cape Owner: Josh Gizdavich Hatteras Red Bull Event, Sam cap- tured the Best Trick award, boosting What is the key to your shop’s success? a 20-foot aerial 360 handlepass to kite loop off the towering Red Bull Customer service and knowledge. We have been in this since the beginning and Slider. Watch for him on the new can answer your questions as well as set you up with the right gear. We make it Coke commercial airing on MTV! our goal to get you set up with gear to match your ability level as well as the Bayareakiteboarding.com made a location you plan to ride. bunch of upgrades to their website to make it more user friendly, inter- What makes your shop different than the rest? active and informative. If you’re a We’re more than just a website. Pacific Wave (aka kiteworld.net) is a full service Northern California kiter or planning water sports store offering surfboards, boogie boards, wetsuits, skateboards, on visiting the area, check it out. snowboards, kiteboarding gear and kayaks as well as quality watches, sunglasses, This summer Ozone teamed up with Ground Industries boards to create the first Kite Ground Boarding crew, TEAM KGB! The Team has been traveling the country educating the population on clothing, and accessories. this ground-bound side of Powerkiting and establishing venues for the 2005 KGB circuit. Next year What gear do you stock? you will see KGB competitions in places like Oregon and South Carolina. Keep an eye on windzup.com for event info. We carry gear from: Slingshot, Naish, North, NSI, Dakine, Airush, Prolimit and many others, as well as a full stock of DVD’s and accessories. SoloSports is gearing up to kick off their first wave clinic of the fall season at world famous San Carlos, Baja Oct 30—Nov 6. The clinic provides RT transport from Orange County or San Diego to What tips can you give any newcomer to the sport? Baja, accommodations, and all meals and beverages including booze. Improvements include a satellite Internet/TV phone system, enhanced power via a newly upgraded wind/solar system, a Learn the rules of the road, take classes, and ride within your limits. Find out what new TV/DVD surround system and a waverunner for tow-in surfing. For more info check out the etiquette is for the beach that you are riding at by asking about the hazards http://www.solosports.net/kevinkiteclinic.htm and or rules. Big Winds’ school has expanded. When students hit the water, they’re now taught with the aid of a jetski, upwind from the crowds and carnage of the Sand Bar. Ozone Travel is gearing up for the winter and offering a variety of discounted flights to the Caribbean. Check out www.ozonetravel.com for more info. Dallas, Texas riders overcame a 1-year riding ban at Dalrock, otherwise known as Big-D in May. Through the diligent PR efforts of local riders and meetings with city and police officials, they were able to reopen their site to kiting with the promise of a few concessions and careful monitoring of kiters. The Michigan kiteboarding scene is blowing up. Learn to kite on the crystal blue water of Grand Haven on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Mackinaw kites will make it easy. Check By The Kiteboarder Magazine Staff www.mackite.com. Detroit Kiteboarding is keeping the D town dialed in with all its kiteboarding needs. Take les- With so many internet sites out there, it is hard to separate the good sons on Lake St. Claire with www.detroitkiteboarding.com from the bad. We want to ask our readers to submit their favorite Teaming up with major manufacturers Slingshot, North and Naish, the innovative minds at kiteboarding sites dealing with: news, equipment, weather, travel or Airtime Kite will soon be offering the “Airtime Pro Support Plan”: one year of no questions asked anything else that you find helpful. Send links to [email protected]. free kite repair, bladder replacement, and technical support. For details visit airtimekite.com Slingshot Kiteboarding brought on pro snow kiter and pioneer Aaron Sales as director of its new The www.semnozkitesurfing.com site is a must if you want to keep your eye Snowkiting divison. Word has it that Aaron and Alex Peterson are on the slopes of NZ putting the on the latest snow tour information. Plenty of mind blowing photos and finishing touches on Slingshot’s new snowkite line. videos to check out! Amery Bernard, winner of the 2004 Gorge Games freestyle event is now offering instruction through All Amery Bernard. Photo Dave Smith Order your 2005 Kiteboard Calendar now! Twelve months of sick riding Surf Industries. ASI is also offering Kite Nights every www.kbcalendar.com. Thursday 4-8 at Sauvie’s. The events are wind depend- ent so call ahead 503-239-8973. If you are heading to Cabarete, Dominican Republic, make sure you click on Leading the charge to bring snow kiting to the masses, www.extremehotels.com. Check out the live web cams of kite beach and live Ozone Kites will launch the Snowkite Freeride tour in weather and wind conditions. Oh yea, and they are building a skate park. November. Starting in Vail, Colorado and ending on Baffin Island in May 05, the Tour will cover more than Check out the Corpus Christi kite scene at www.prokitesurf.com. Jeff 30,000 miles and offer free demo kites, clinics with pro- Howard runs a great shop and provides a link with information on kiting riders and freeriding expression sessions. Ozone will also have a new DVD for 2005. The DVD will contain Corpus Christi. some sick footage including Red Bull’s Chasta boosting Where do the pros buy their camera gear? Four out of the five we asked told a TRIPLE KITE LOOP off a mountainside. For more info check out www.ozonesnowkites.com us they buy from www.bhphoto.com. Windzup will be hosting the first PASA Snowkite See who is riding your spot. Go to www.surfline.com and click on cams and Instructors course at their home site of Skyline, Utah. reports. There are a bunch of free cams you can check out. Whether you are seeking certification, or just want to ride one of the most epic spots in the states, this will be a great time to come put your skills to the Where should I get a photo reprint? Check out www.pictopia.com. They print snow. www.windzup.com any size, quick and cheap. www.kbmag.com has a bunch of new material for you to check out: videos, photos and a forum full of information. Upload your shots to the site for free. continued on page 26 411411 News and Information 411411 News and Information

Mental Notes SMACK continued from page 24 Competition Corner Competition Results How to Make a Dive Tank Kite Pump Kiteboard Oregon is one of the Northwest’s newest schools. Founded by Jimmy Dorsey, he offers classes at Sauvie’s Island, Jones Beach and a Helm Sports Presents: Mens Hang Time Winner By Paul Menta variety of other locations. More info at: 503-407-5130 or The Air Up There: The 4th Annual King of the Bay Damien Leroy - 6.65 sec. Foster City, CA, August 13-15 www.kiteboardoregon.com Womens Hang Time Winner Tired of pumping up? Are your arms overworked from Caution would like to Mens Pro Kristin Boese - 5.25 sec. Red Bull King of the Air 2004 1st Aaron Hadlow blowing up your big kites? I have tried every hand pump. KPWT World Cup Portugal welcome renowned 2nd Damien LeRoy Realizar Matosinhos World Cup It’s tiring and eventually the handle snaps. I have bought waterman Chuck By John Romais 3rd Mark Doyle Patterson of Kite Now Portugal, July 2-8 most electric pumps and there usually is not enough pres- Womens Pro Mens and Kauai’s very own 1st Bri Chmel sure and they burn out. I was tinkering around in the garage 1st Rui Pedro Meira Jeremy Fry of Akamai The 2004 Red Bull King of The Air stayed true to its title. Maui’s Premier Kiteboarding competition took 2nd Julie Simsar 2nd Mallory De La Villemarque one day and I decided to equip an old dive tank with a hose, Kite School to the place on September 23-25th at Ho’okipa Beach Park. With the judges emphasizing height over all, air 3rd Rebecca Wolthers 3rd Adrien Jaujou Caution Family. For so I could pump up my kite. It ended up working great. was the name of the game. It was disappointing to eliminate the more progressive style of riding from Mens Amateur Womens more information and 1st John Modica each riders arsenal of tricks, but it was good to see how big riders could go. This made the riding much 1st Fabienne D’Ortoli Set Up: Add a quick connect to an external line on the photos, check out Chuck Patterson Photo Clark Merritt 2nd Chris Brown 2nd Gisela Pulido www.cautionkites.com more exciting to watch for your average spectator. 3rd Kent Graninger regulator. Connect the nipple valve from the B.C. 3rd H l ne Barri re The Fifth-Annual RRD to a hose with a nozzle and you are set. IKO has been busy these past few months. They expanded their interna- Long Distance Men and Women Paul shows off his invention. With some of kiteboarding’s bigger names ether not competing or being eliminated, due to the Bridge of the Gods tional insurance coverage for IKO schools and instructors and now also 1st Pierre Romain judging format, it was time for some new names to shine. The highlight of the event was the woman’s Stevenson, WA, Aug. 21-22 Facts: offer IKO instructors and their family members insurance. Additionally, IKO 1st Helene Barriere sent handle-passes and Tahitian, Liquid Force rider Tuterai Montaron. The level of woman’s ridding took Mens just completed their reevaluation of IKO centers and suspended 42 KPWT Wave Masters Portugal • You can pick up old dive gear online or at pawn shops very cheap 1st Amery Bernard schools from the IKO network due to noncompliance of their upgraded a huge leap forward at the competition with multiple women pulling off sent handle passes in their Pro World Tour Wave Masters 2nd Dylan Thompson affiliation standards. Lastly, IKO now offers 2-day Instructor Equivalency Peniche / Guincho Portugal • Normal bottles provide about 15 kite fill-ups heats. Naish’s 2nd place finisher Yuri Drexler and Flexifoils third place finisher Julie Simsar were two 3rd Brian Wheeler Course for PASA and VDWS instructors who wish to be recognized as IKO August 10-17 of the most progressive women on the water. Womens • Bottle refill cost $3 instructors, as well as an IKO Assistant Training Certification for young Mens 1st Laura Maher kiteboarders 16 years and older. Check out www.ikorg.com 1st Herv Bour On the men’s side Tuterai Montaron was the name of the event. Tuterai pulled off huge sent han- 2nd Gail Zaccai • Add a handle for easier handling. 2nd Bruno Sroka 3rd Charlotte Buri From November through March 05, The Kite House will operate out of dle passes and multiple sent jumps to advanced all-the-way from the Kanaha qualifier and through the 3rd Etienne Lhote their new destination in Costa Rica. Owned by rider, PASA cofounder and double elimination event at Ho’okipa, to be the undefeated winner. Juniors 4th Jos Sanchez chef Paul Menta, the Kite House offers a tribe atmosphere where pros, 1st Ian Daly Womens beginners and intermediate to advanced riders converge to ride, chill and 2nd Ben Chambers In end, the event seemed to run smoothly except a few moments when Tuterai and Aaron Hadlow 1st Fabienne d’Ortoli 2nd Tucker Sherman enjoy good times. 2nd Gisela Pulido almost worked themselves on the rocks at Ho’okipa. Both ended up OK and the event turned out to be 3rd Josh Griffiths Just 3 hours outside of Cabarete, a new hotel and kite school named 3rd Kristy Jones another exciting chapter in Maui, Red Bull, KOA history. A new King was crowned and the Queen, Susi 2004 King of the Air North Carolina 4th Ida Ferri re Palapa Hotel just opened on the best beach for kiteboarding in Las Red Bull KOA qualifier Mai, kept her title. Thanks to the water safety and everyone who helped make the Red Bull King of the 2004 KPWT Terrenas: Punta Popy. Only 5 minutes from Portillo airport, check out Outerbanks, Cape Hatteras, Aug. 6-8 www.palapabeach.com for more info. Air a success. Rankings after 3rd event Womens Mens X Rated Kiteboarding is planning their next British Virgin Island cata- 1st Julie Simsar 1st Mickael Fernandez 2nd Morgan Skiperdene maran tours. You and five of your friends can take the kiteboarding adven- 2nd Charles Deleau 3rd Nadia Roux ture of a lifetime. Jump on a luxury catamaran and sail to the best spots 3rd Guillaume Mariani the British Virgin Islands has to offer. Mens 4th Cedric Lebourgocq Check out www.xratedkiteboarding.com for more information. 1st Cameron Dietrich 5th Jeremy Eloy 2nd Jason Slezak 6th Rui Pedro Meira Isobars 101: 3rd Damien Leroy 7tth Julien Sudrat 8th Pierre Romain 2004 King of the Great Lakes 10th Felix Pivec Red Bull KOA qualifier 10th Kevin Langerre What they are and how to read them. Grand Haven, Michigan, Sept. 9-12 Womens Womens By Gary Martin 1st Gisela Pulido 1st Sarah Paciocco (Unofficial) 2nd Helene Barriere Mens 3rd Vika Soloveikina 1st Andy Hurdman 2004 PKRA Germany Definition: An isobar is a continuous line on a weather map connecting points of equal 2nd Nick Bowers July 4-9 3rd Mike Lanoe Mens barometric pressure. 2004 King of the Air Delaware Luciano Gonzales 1st Aaron Hadlow Red Bull KOA qualifier Photo Clay Rogers/Red Bull 2nd Giani Aragno Go to the Weather Channel or any weather site on the internet (NOAA, Accuweather, or ikitesurf.com). Dewey Beach, Delaware, Sep. 10-12 Tuterai Montaron Susi Mai, Yuri Drexler and Julie Simsar 3rd Ruben Lenten 4th Andre Phillip Photo Clay Rogers/Red Bull Photo Clay Rogers/Red Bull Womens Check out the maps that show barometric pressure and isobars. Take a second to observe and notice 1st Bri Chmel Womens 2nd Morgan Skiperdene how the gradients (isobars) change as the day progresses. 1st Cindy Mosey Kiteboarding in Liquid Force Mens 2nd Ingrid K llbichler U.S. Qualifier Results 1st Damien Leroy 3rd Susi Mai Do these lines mean anything? Yes, the constant spinning of these highs and lows are one of the fac- Wakeboard Team DVD 2nd Ruben Lenten 4th Ania Grzelinska 3rd Mike Littlejohn 2004 PKRA Partners tors that create the winds we ride. As a rule of thumb, the tighter the spacing of the isobars (lines), the Location: North Carolina, Red Bull Qualifier Location: Dewey Beach, Delaware, Red Bull Qualifier 2004 6TH ANNUAL PKRA World Tour Standings Spot: The Slick, on sound side of the Outerbanks. Spot: Delaware Seashore State Park stronger the wind. Liquid Force team riders Jason Slezak and Red Bull King of the Air - Main Event Rankings after 6th event Host: Real Kiteboarding, www.realkiteboarding.com Host: H2air, www.h2air.com Maui, Hawaii - September 20-22 Moehau Goold just finished filming a kiteboarding Mens Men’s winner: Cameron Dietrich Men’s winner: Damien Leroy Looking at a hurricane isobar map is the best way to learn how to interpret isobar lines. As the pres- section, which was included in the Liquid Force Men's Freestyle 1st Aaron Hadlow Women’s Winner: Julie Simsar Women’s Winner: Bri Chmel 1st Tuterai Montaron 2nd Giani Aragno film Relentless. At the films debut in Encinitas CA, Highlights: The "Wall" was introduced--a 60-foot rail about 8 feet Highlights: The battle all weekend was between Ruben Lenten of 3rd Jaime Herraiz sure in the eye of the hurricane drops the lines closest to the center become very tight. Just as, the 2nd Antoine Jaubert a wakeboarder filled theater cheered on some of above the water. Due to the dieing wind on Saturday, the riders could Holland, and Damien Leroy of Naples, Florida. In the finals the two 3rd Charles Deleau 4th Ruben Lenten only really challenge the rail on the first day of competition. went head to head, and after some incredible tricks Damien narrowly 4th Aaron Hadlow 5th Martin Vari further from the eye of the hurricane you get, the isobar lines get further away. the sickest rail footage from Antigua, Maui and 6th Alvaro Onieva beat out the Dutchman. 5th Luciano Gonzales Hatteras. If you are a wake style rider, and you like Location: King of the Great Lakes, Michigan, Red Bull Qualifier 5th Damien LeRoy 7th Etienne Lhote Weather Tips Spot: Grand Haven City Beach on the west coast of Michigan. Location: South Padre Island, Texas, Red Bull Qualifier 7th Mark Doyle 8th Kevin Langeree Sleezy, this is the film for you. Check out 7th Sky Solbach Host: Mackinaw Kites, www.mackite.com Spot: Port Isabel, across the bay from South Padre Island Womens 1. The closer the lines, the stronger the wind. Jason’s crash at the end of the section that left Men’s winner: Andy Hurdman Host: Red Bull Womens Freestyle 1st Cindy Mosey 2. High pressure rotates clockwise. him with 4 broken bones. The kite section can be Unofficial Women’s Winner: Sarah Paciocco Men’s winner: Mike Danish 1st Susi Mai 2nd Kristin Boese Highlights: Andy Hurdman out of Delray, Florida was smooth as ever Highlights: U.S. Coast Guard Pilot earns a second set of wings at the 2nd Yuri Drexler 3rd Ingrid Koellbichler viewed at www.liquidforce.com. Rumor has it that 3rd Julie Simsar 4th Petra Goeschl 3. Low pressure rotates counter clockwise. and dominated the Great Lakes event. New comer Nick Bowers from South Texas qualifier. 4th Kristin Boese the new Liquid Force feature length kiteboard film Wisconsin came on the scene strong and showed why he is the best in 4. As barometric pressure increases, For more information on the qualifiers, check out 5th Sandrine Mauiner that will be released in 2005. the Midwest. the wind decreases. www.redbullkingoftheair.com. 5th Rebecca Wolthers 26 27 411411 News and Information 411411 News and Information NOW BOARDING New School The World of John Romais Video Review Up and Coming Rider Profile Dealing with Baggage! By James Brown Hometown: Carpinteria, California Years Kiteboarding: 4 Years Cross Training: Competes on the Currently living in San Diego Occupation: Student at University UCSD Triathlon team. By Neil Hutchinson, owner of Xratedkiteboarding.com Age: 23 California San Diego, Senior Sponsors: Liquid Force, Jimmy Lewis Sick Days Height: 5’9 Preferences: Likes bindings because and Zeal Optics If you liked Small Craft Warning you will love Sick of the wakeboard feel. Rides fixed Days . It is a perfect length to get you stoked in one Stance: Regular Foot because he likes the power. viewing and has sick riding with a good variety of styles including kiteloops, handlepasses, boardoffs and wave footage. The sound track is killer and the John’s Gargage editing is professionally executed. You will definitely 1 want to take a sick day to go ride after watching this 1. Uses the Liquid Force MLF 120 and Jimmy Lewis custom boards. film. Check out www.leadingedgeproductions.ca (Note the url is .ca, not .com) for more information. 5 2. Uses Liquid Force Spectrum kites. 3. Enjoys photography. 4. $2000 triathalon/time trial bike that he WindReels Volume One logs 200-300 miles per week. A pleasant surprise. WindReels Volume One turned out 2 to have loads of inspiring riding with top riders. It is set 5. Lifts over 5000 pounds a week on this bar. up in a video magazine format with introductions of 4 the riders and the amazing filming locations. They 6. Surfs in his spare time. The pros spend thousands of dollars a year on baggage fees. Photo Sierra Lake throw in a quick demonstration of the Cabrinha Recon 7. Dakine backpack to lug his books.. system as well as some lifestyle footage. The original 6 8. Averages 20-60 miles a week in these Traveling with gear has become harder over the past few years, especially soundtrack is really well done and the editing is mod- shoes. after 9/11. Airlines have been enforcing weight restrictions, bag fees, and the 7 ern and exciting. Check out www.1cps.net for more 10 3 9. Textbooks for his Bachelors in Film and number of bags you can bring, along with much higher security levels. The NSI 9 8 information. John charging in Maui. Video Production. Deceiver and other similar bags have emerged to try and fool the airlines, but Photo Kim Kern some (airlines) have already caught on to this attempt to bypass fees. I have 10. Reads Alliance Wakeboarding. spent thousands of dollars over the past ten years on extra baggage and have learned through trial and error on how to outsmart the counter. The following is Secrets of Kiteboarding a list of tips that might help you save a few bucks and help you prevent dam- The DVD is part of a suite of products that will help aging your gear the next time you fly. make kiteboarding easier and safer to learn. The use of handles(hoops) that attach to the leading edge of Know your Weight the kite is one of the unique developments that make The whole weight restriction thing has become a huge hurdle for a lot of kiters this a one-of-a-kind teaching system. Included on the and the fees can be astronomical. Currently most airlines are enforcing a 50lb DVD are 7 quick lessons to get you started, a product limit for domestic travel and 70lb for international. Some airlines are so strict summary (which includes hoops, lines and a 162 page that if you are a single lb overweight they will charge you anywhere from book), safety gear and an action video to get you $20-$80. Most airlines let you check in two bags and have one carry on plus a stoked. Check out www.kiteboardcenter.com for more personal item. Be smart and split the weight evenly among all of your bags. information Tips to Packing: • Don’t take kite bags for all your kites. This will help keep the weight of Concept of Motion your board bag down and it is much easier to pack kites when they are Raging Nation dubs their long awaited latest release as out of their bags. A Kiteboarding Rockumentary . The film is an artistic • Take the fins off your board and out of one side of your foot strap, folding tribute to the diversity that our sport has to offer. Some the strap flat to the board. This will make your board as thin as possible. of the highlights include tons of epic waveriding, new • Wrap your fins in something or put in a separate pocket to ensure they do school moves and some good, if dated, kitesnow- not poke holes in your kite. boarding footage from the first snowkiting contest in • Wrap your board in your kites for protection. Don’t just rely on the board Mammoth. Chocked full of extra footage, including an bag itself, put your kites to extra use. interview with waveriding guru Chuck Patterson. • Pack your harness and one kite into your suitcase along with a spare bar Check out www.ragingnation.com for more information. and lines. These add quite a bit of weight and if the airline loses your board bag, you have some essentials with you and you may be able to rent or borrow a board. 13 Daze Follow the Naish team on a dream trip to explore the Tips to Checking Bags: island of Barbados. The action is as diverse as the var- • If there is a long line at the counter, walk to the front of the line and drop your ious styles of team riders. This isn’t a Naish-centric board bag off and go back and stand in line. Your board will be waiting for you. promotional piece as you might expect it’s a full- • If you think your bag will be overweight, put one of your other bags directly blown action/adventure film complete with bonus in front of the scales and then put your board bag on the scales so it is footage. Check out the bodyboarding antics, monster subtly resting on your other bag. This can knock off up to about 30% of cliff hucking, mandatory old school session, breath- your weight. Remember to play stupid when trying this one. taking lofting incident and snowkiting footage from • If asked, what is in your bag, tell them it is your kites and extra clothes. Norway. Check out www.naishkites.com for more Do not say anything that has the word board in it. You just fly kites, big kites. information. • Always be as nice, friendly and as courteous as you possibly can. You 28 want these people on your side! 411411 News and Information 411411 News and Information

instruction from PASA/IKO/Real would be required. Outlook This would help get new kiteboarders working with Photos Lance Koudele certified instructors instead of self-teaching and get- ting hurt. Many people do not realize that learning to By Joe Bidawid kiteboard is much more than just getting up on a License to Kite board. Learning how to identify dangerous situations Age: 53 and deal with them properly is equally important. Street Name: Kite Buddha By Jay Stebbins On a crowded beach where everyone is mandated to Roots: Windsurfing know the local procedures, a registration process Hood: Hood River and Bonaire N.A. This just has to stop. Kiteboarding is getting banned on too many beaches. To a large might ensure people follow the rules. If you as a local System: Gaastra Stealth kiter or authority were to see someone launching part, this is our own fault. Some of these bans could have been prevented. All too often we Ride: Gaastra Sky Pro Model all just sat quietly doing nothing hoping the inevitable would not happen. I would argue, with without the required identification, then you bring them up to speed. Reality is, there are some beach- Claim: I survived a 4 mile swim with a separated shoulder the growing numbers of kiteboarders the situation will only get worse. es where only an advanced kiteboarder would be on a windy off-shore day. Mike Solbach safe. Without any type of enforceable program it is Shout: Loop that kite, it’s the holy grail of kiteboarding. very difficult to persuade a rider to not go out for his or her own safety. Mike’s Kite Loop Tips Liability 1. Make sure to have plenty of room downwind before attempting any type of kite loop. This is also a perfect opportunity to address the 2. Start out by doing a jump transition and looping the kite. issues of liability. Personal liability is a huge concern of every property owner and beach administrator. 3. As you become more and more comfortable with the timing, try adding a back roll with Every person I have ever spoken to was relieved the back kite loop, or a front roll with the front down loop transition. when we had the interests of others already 4. Whatever you do, always pull on one side of the bar continuously so the kite completes addressed by having signed liability waivers. A well the loop. An easy way to start this is to take one hand off the bar — the front hand for written piece of paper removes a monstrous hurdle a back kite loop and the back hand for a front down loop. If you don’t do this, you can in negotiating beach access. be pulled onto your head backwards, which could result in weeks of pain. 6. By keeping your knees tucked up when you hit the water, you 5. Always commit to the move and visualize it before you attempt it. Hesitation will be your will have less body area hitting and less chance of any injury. Registration Number vs. Streamers worst enemy when trying kite loops. Remember, "at the moment of commitment, the 7. Make sure to yell as loud as you can and claim the kite loop to There are pros and cons with both systems. We universe aspires to assist you". anyone within earshot. looked at the streamer program proposed in Florida and felt it was a good start and a great way to make Get involved before we lose access. Photo Rocky Carduci sure everyone on the beach is familiar with the local rules. A shortcoming of the streamer program is it eaches get banned for a multitude of reasons. enforcing them is seemingly impossible. My riding leaves the individual kiter anonymous. The group is It could be a beginner getting dragged through area in Nantucket, Massachusetts is no different. We still taking the blame for the actions of one person. I Ba family picnic, or a seasoned ripper cutting as a group sat down one night after a meeting with believe every kiter should be accountable for his or too close to the crowd. Sometimes a heated argu- the town and decided we needed a communication her own actions. Registration numbers provide that ment will shut down a beach as well. The problem program that identified who was in the know and accountability. But a one-time registration fails to is this. There is no distinction between the individ- who was not. In addition to our concerns the town meet the needs of local beaches. There is a way to ual and the whole group. We are just The was worried about the liability they might incur as blend the two programs together in an easy non- Kiteboarders. The words or actions of any one kite- well as the potential individual liability of landowners obtrusive fashion--and unobtrusive is important. A boarder might as well be screamed and performed if a kiteboarder was hurt on a private beach. These concern voiced by all kiters seems to be the fear of by all of us in the eyes of the non-kiteboarding are all realistic concerns. kiteboarding becoming ruined by red-tape and regu- world. I am sure my crew is not much different than lation. No one wants to go through the Kiteboarding your crew. You do whatever it takes to keep a beach What Can We Do? version of the DMV to get on the water. open. Then after all the meetings, rules and effort, Here is one idea. Registration numbers and/or col- Will the days of just rigging up and heading out to when everybody is happy, someone shows up who ored streamers can be used to identify not only forget about life’s woes be over? Will there be a spe- either does not know or just does not care what the whether or not an individual was aware of the local cial kite police patrolling the waterways of America? local rules are. We try to do everything to make sure rules, dangers and etiquette, but also the level of a Absolutely not! Registration numbers and Streamers these things do not get out of control. We make kiter. This same registration program would integrate are for maintaining access at crowded beaches and rules that are necessary to keep a beach open and with the systems started by PASA/ IKO/Real to keep people from self-teaching. Programs like this then try to keep everyone in that group on the same Kiteboarding. A well thought out registration program can also be used to regain access to beaches that program. Everybody is happy. Then sooner or later would solve many of the problems that lead to have already been banned. As for our secret spots someone shows up, who either does not know or beach bans. where our impact is minimal, the same feeling we just does not care what the local rules are. Many people still believe they can safely teach them- found riding there yesterday will still be there tomor- Something goes wrong and once again the whole selves. Most kiteboarders know this is not true. row. Organizing our sport and working to keep every- group takes the blame for the actions of one. Back When we were trying to figure a way to force people one safe will ensure our existence tomorrow. to square one, although this time it will be harder. to seek proper instruction we originally we looked at The current system of just telling your friends and the SCUBA industry where you have to take certified Jay Stebbins is a PASA instructor who can be found kite- posting rules on the internet is not working. There lessons if you want your tank filled. Our problem is boarding on Nantucket Island. Jay and his crew donate are too many people showing up from anywhere that we do not have tanks. However we could require much of their free time successfully preventing bans and who have no clue. Communicating the rules and numbers and in order to get the numbers, certified keeping everyone riding safe. 30 Send It Send in your best kiteboarding photos: riding, lifestyle or whatever. The best shot wins a free “The Kiteboarder Magazine” T-Shirt. Don’t forget to send us your caption. [email protected]

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1. Jason Slezak makes some adjustments. Photo Gregg Gnecco 14. Tuterai Mantaron and his local crew celebrate his King of the Air victory. 24 25 2. When not kiteboarding, Tuva Jansen likes to surf. Photo Charles Oreve Photo Clay Rogers/Red Bull

3. The Godfather of Michigan kiteboarding, Joe Bidawid, shows Adam Koch Detroit. 15. Helene Wainman riding in Canada. Photo Lou Wainman Photo Michelle Zuniga 3 10 16. Tim Blanchard kiteboarding by downtown Detroit. Photo Joe Bidawid 4. King of the Bay spectators enjoy a weekend of competition. Photo Robert Vreeland 17. Dimitri Maramenides between the legs. Photo Roger Lyon

5. Robby Naish gets ready for his heat in Maui. Photo Clay Rogers/RedBull 18. Self Portrait. Photo Lou Wainman 4 10 6. Morning yoga at Solo Sports, San Carlos. Photo Clark Merritt 19. Julie Simsar at the King of the Bay. Photo Robert Vreeland 7. Beware of High Winds. Photo Michelle Zuniga 20. Jeff Brown, Karim Berrada and Patrick Nedele obviously have a no-wind afternoon at 8. Summer Girls relaxing on the Outer Banks. Photo Reader Submission Lake McConaughy in Nebraska. Photo James Brown

9. Buster Tronolone doing some after hours editing. Photo Lou Wainman 21. Ben Wilson interviews Moe Goold for an up and coming DVD. Photo Greg Gnecco

10. Gary Reed enjoys a San Carlos afternoon session. Photo Karn Bureker 22. Shanti Berg edits the new Tronolone release. Photo Lou Wainman

11. Tommy Trozera slays a San Diego wave on a 22m kite and a Jimmy Lewis 23. Xrated Kiteboarding latest advertisement campaign. Photo C.J. 176cm K-Rad. Photo Denis Poroy 24. Interested newcomers at the trade show. Photo Alexis Rovira

12. Niccolo Porcella and Lou Wainman show off some of their latest boards and 25. Scott Norby charges in La Ventana. Photo Todd Norby fancy new hairdos. Photo courtesy of Lou Wainman

13. Felix Pivec fueling up on some McCurry-ca-bobs in Dubai. Photo Trent Pederson 23 24 Close-Up Bertrand Fleury by James Brown The Fury of Fleury VITALS Age: 24 Height: 6’ Bertrand Fleury came from his home in France to storm the kiteboard- Weight: 180 lbs. ing scene in Maui. Since the early days, he has pushed limits of the Years riding: 4 sport and raised the bar for every rider. His unique style and signature Local spot: Kitebeach, Maui kiteloops have made him a notable force. Favorite Spots: It depends on the conditions and the people I ride with. Where did you start kiteboarding and why? I started kiting in Brest, north of France. In the beginning I was using a foil kite and a huge board. After that I started using F-one Favorite Conditions: I like light wind kites and a wakeboard with bindings. I did some windsurfing before, but kiteboarding so I can use my 11m or 13m Fuel for Photo courtesy of Slingshot looked fun with the variety of moves. wakestyly moves or side/side-off wind with good size waves. Influences? Lou Wainman has inspired me a lot from the beginning. When I came to Maui for the first time around 4 years ago he was already doing handlepasses and huge moves. Favorite Moves: Flat rotations like 540’s with a grab or unhooked His moves and wave surfing was a big influence. handlepasses on 60-foot rails, 16 feet off the water. What sets you apart from other kiters? Not much... most of us are trying to push the Sponsors: CEBE, Pacific Motion, Slingshot, DAKINE sport to new levels and to make it grow in the right direction. Who do you like to ride with? All the Maui guys, Moehau Goold, Jason Stone, Stav Niarchos, Andr Phillip and more. Also, my crazy team rid- ers Ben Wilson, Jeff Tobias, and Mark Doyle. Who do you think rips and why? All the Maui guys and the big wave riders who are pushing kite- boarding in the right direction. They give me and everyone else a lot of motivation to do the same. What do you do off the water to help you on the water? I like to go to the cable park and go surfing. Views on contests: I do like to compete, but it has to be the right setting. Right now I don’t see the reason to travel around the world to contests with bad conditions and poor judging. That doesn’t give me anything. When a better format comes up, I am up for it. Views on the industry: I think it is good for the sport to have some competition with other brands because it makes people have to work harder to come up with better stuff. The problem is that some of the brands are only into it to make money and not to push the sport the right way. It A signature kiteloop courtesy of Mr. Fury himself. Photo John Bilderback makes it hard for the good companies to survive. What is in your future? No contests until there are some new ideas and formats. Contests at good spots, good riders and judging. Until then I prefer to travel around and look for the best spots in the world to ride. Be a better GEARGEAR SET-UPSET-UP surfer and work on some off-axis moves. Board: Slingshot 139 SX Who would you like to thank or give props to? My friend Adam, who helped me get going in the right direction with kiteboarding in the beginning and helped me out with Kite: Slingshot Fuel sponsorship. I would also like to thank Slingshot for being cool and making good equipment Bar: Slingshot Profire for me. Lines: 23m for tricks and light wind, 13m for kiteloops, 15-20m for strong Where do you see the sport heading? It may get crazy. People are pushing from every- wind. where, people from other sports like surfing, wakeboarders are getting into it too and can help to make kiting even better. There is no limit to what we can do, we just have to figure Bindings: Custom boots and straps out some new stuff to keep it interesting. Harness: Dakine

1. Don’t use kites that are too big. It is bad for style and they are unsafe. 3. Try using bindings instead of straps. You will get more power, better landings, It makes it hard to learn new tricks. better style and it is a must for sliders and kickers. 2. Ride unhooked. Don’t hit sliders or kickers hooked-in, it looks bad and 4. Don’t use a small board for wave riding. With a bigger board you can use a small- it’s more dangerous (take the leash off when you try this.) Think about er kite and you don’t have to use the kite as much. It will give you a closer feel- the style. ing to surfing. 34 Pro Tips Product Watch Close-Up Bri Chmel by James Brown Don’t worry, Bri happy! VITALS Age: 20 Height: 5’1 This 20 year old ripper has only been kiting for 2 years. She recently won Weight: 110 Stance: Small the Expression Session and the Blow Out events at the Gorge Games. Years Riding: 2 Her moves have become more progressive which has made her a force Local spot: Hood River, OR on the competition scene. Favorite Spots: La Paguera in Puerto Rico and Hatteras, N.C. Where did you start kiteboarding and why? I took my first lesson with Dave Tyburski and New Winds kite school in the Gorge. We went on a tandem body drag and he told me Favorite Conditions: Flat shallow that I had awesome control of the kite and should keep it up. Thanks to him, here I am! tropical water, 9 meter kite, kickers and sliders. Photo Michelle Zuniga Influences? Fast, explosive, powerful riders like Jason Stone, Moe Goold, and Andre Phillip. Favorite Moves: Unhooked kiteloops, the fishing pole and Music? Lots of world music that has spice - Reggaeton is the best for dancing! I also like handle passes. JIMMY LEWIS OZONE AFI — they rock. FLEXIFOIL Sponsors: RRD, Da Kine, Impulse Energy, Black Flys, KITE SURFBOARD STORM 3 FRENZY – Snow kite What sets you apart from other kiters? I think that I am one of the younger (and short- Ultranectar, Kitopia Customs er) girls in the sport, so I guess that sets me apart from most. Designed and shaped by JL, this kite surfboard The Storm 3 is designed for the advanced kite- New this year is an improved on-the-fly power rips in smaller surf (1-6 foot faces). With a control system, giving the rider easy handling Who do you like to ride with? I like to ride with friends, and it is nice when I get to ride boarder. This high aspect ratio kite combines fast with girls because there aren’t very many of them in the sport. stronger glass job and bigger stringer, the board is turning and light bar pressure while maintaining a from full power, to 50% of the pull, and to full stop Bri boosts a big one by a bridge. Enough B’s fer ya? Photo Robert Vreeland built to take a beating. This polyester board has a solid stable pull. The kite includes the next gener- utilizing the Frenzy’s unique integrated brake line Who do you think rips and why? Crazy Andy Hurdman, because he is the fastest most flat bottom, swallow tail, and tri-fin configuration. ation leashless control bar. This is the kite that kite killer. The kite comes with a leashless re-ride powerful rider on earth. I have to say that his POWERED 540 mobe in Puerto Rico last week Jimmy’s boards are legendary and these look Aaron Hadlow uses. system and quick releases on the chicken loop is the best one I’ve ever seen and will kick anyone’s butt. pretty dang sick. and harness line to allow for a complete release of Sizes: 7, 9, 12, 15 and 18.5m What do you do off the water to help you on the water? I ride every day, but I try to do Size: custom the kite when needed. some cross training like running on my off days. I try to stretch as much as possible, but I www.flexifoil.com Sizes: 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 14m forget sometimes. I also practice handle passes whenever I am around a hanging bar. www.jimmylewis.com Views on contests: I like contests, but I am not too into doing the tour. I prefer doing www.windzup.com travel stories and videos, because I feel like I gain more and it benefits my sponsors better. What do you like best about kiting? I like the feeling of riding fast across the slickest water possible. What is in your future? I am in the process of working with a film crew from Hollywood on a high class film that will hopefully be the kiteboarding counterpart to Step Into Liquid. I am doing a couple of contests in the end of the summer along with some trips to Hatteras and Tahiti or Costa Rica. Memorable moments? Those awesome days on the kickers and sliders in Hatteras with all my friends, and the perfectly beautiful conditions in La Paguera, Puerto Rico at the Kitehouse. What other sports do you, or did you do? I used to snowboard and play soccer, but I haven’t since I started kiting. Who would you like to thank or give props to? My parents. Where do you see the sport heading? The sport is more like wakeboarding now but it’s a little more extreme. I see it getting even crazier with simple things being thrown in with advanced tricks. GEARGEAR SET-UPSET-UP What skills are you working on right now? Unhooked, fast powered moves with the kite RRD Naish Airush low. I am working on handle passes, unhooked back kite loops, and the fishing pole. Board: Kitopia Custom 105cm x 13.25in SX Skimboard Element - Snow Kite X-pact Where would you like to travel to kiteboard? I want to discover all of the flatest water Kite: RRD Type 6 For lightwind riders who prefer a skimboard, these The Element is Naish’s first production snow kite. The X-Pact is a twin tip designed for the interme- spots in tropical places all around the world. The flatter and more beautiful the better! Bar: RRD Custom Bar skims are lightweight, durable and easy to ride. After testing many different prototypes, they diate to advanced rider. The board comes in three Who would you like to ride with? My parents, I don’t get to very often. New-school construction and a powerful outline different sizes and performs well in the waves and Lines: 28m and 25m decided on a kite that is both easy to use and Final comments? Some people make things happen, some people watch things happen, make it easy to throw disgusting fans. The 51 is offers the performance needed for the latest flats. The ABS rails and gel coat deck give it a and others say what happened? Helmet: Capix with custom logos - to keep my head intact! the board of choice for team rider Joey Pasquali. freestyle moves. The depower system gives it a bombproof contstruction without making the Bindings: Foot straps Sizes: 51 X 20.75 wide wind range, necessary in gusty mountain board too heavy. Felix Pivec influenced the design conditions. The auto stable profile gives the kite a of this board. Harness: Dakine Tempest 46 X 20.25 solid feel. Sizes: 135, 127, 122 www.cabaldc.com Sizes: 5, 7, 10m www.airush.com 1. Use the smallest kite possible for the conditions because you can 3. Less and smaller fins work better for flat water unhooked moves. Especially use pop for moves instead of edging overpowered. for surface handle passes and landing hot without catching your fins. www.naishkites.com 2. Get a chicken loop that is easy to unhook and hook back into. 4. Do not edge while on a kicker — edge towards it while you are still on the water. The worst is trying to get back into a mini chicken loop. At the last second bend your knees and keep your board as flat as possible. Pro Tips 36 36 37 After seeing this guy launch a 20 foot air, becoming a kiteboarder wasn’t a hard decision to make; in fact it wasn’t a choice at all: NORTHERN “it was a necessity. EXPOSURE ” Eight Insane Places to Ride in the Pacific Northwest

By Brian Wheeler

ost people equate the Northwest I saw my first kiteboarder and confirmed the M with pine trees, Starbucks cof- existence of a sport that could make my 8vision a reality. After seeing this guy launch fee, rainy foggy weather, flannel a 20 foot air, becoming a kiteboarder wasn’t shirts and even grunge bands such as a hard decision to make; in fact it wasn’t a Nirvana and Pearl Jam. While most of choice at all: it was a necessity. Like most these stereotypes have some legitimacy kiters, I was hooked before I started and two most people don’t realize that the Northwest years later I moved from Seattle to the Gorge offers some killer places to kiteboard. (for the summer) and brought the peaceful Growing up in Seattle, I never thought that I and exhilarating sensations of my dream to would find a sport as amazing as life. I’ve returned to ride and teach every Kiteboarding. summer since. A few years before I even heard of kiteboard- Over the course of the last five years, I’ve ing I dreamt that I was snowboarding, which kiteboarded all over the Northwest. I’ve rid- at the time wasn’t an uncommon dream. den a lot of places, but unfortunately there But in this dream I somehow acquired the are too many to fit into this article. Also, ability to fly, and before long I found myself some of them should remain a secret as to hucking massive 40-50 ft. styled out airs and not spoil their magic. I’ve narrowed down the landing with grace. It was pure bliss, but a list to eight key Northwest locations that part of me was pissed when I had to wake accurately represents the wide variety of up. Although, somewhere deep inside, the conditions, communities and kick-ass places wiser part of me knew that somehow I could to ride in the Northwest. Hopefully you will fly with a board on my feet, like in the dream. have a chance to session one of these spots Then in 1997 at the Sand Bar (in Hood River, OR) and see how incredible these places can be.

Mark Doyle studying kiteloop physics. Photo John Bilderback 38 39 NORTHERN EXPOSURE

Floras Lake Langlois, OR Launch Information Official Name: Floras Lake Local Schools: Plans to turn Floras Lake into a INSIDER TIPS Nick Name: Floras Floras Lake Kiteboarding port were abandoned when it was • Hit the water in the a.m. for lighter Cross Streets: Boice Cope Road & Floras Lake Road (541) 348-9912 winds. It usually picks up early and gets realized the lake was above sea www.floraslake.com Best Season: Spring - Fall strong in the p.m. level. What remains is a path in the Places to stay: Best Direction: Northwest • When it’s funky or blowing NE at the sand dune that offers easy access Boice Cope Park lake, hop over the dune to more consis- for kiters to walk from the warm Average Kite Size: 8-12 First come - first served camping tent winds on the ocean. and shallow waters of the lake to Conditions: Waves and flat water. Butter at north end Blanco State Park • Watch out for the beach break; it can the ocean. It is close to one of the of lake and wind chop increases as you go down the lake (800) 452-5687 get rather large. Northwest coast’s best down- Level of Riding: Beginner - Pro Floras Lake 1House Bed & Breakfast • Definitely wear at least a 4/3 full suit in winders, has nice camping accom- Launch: Sandy beach w/ beginner-friendly offshore launch Langlois, OR (541) 348-2573 the ocean and in summer a shorty is usually enough for the lake. modations, an onsite school, and access to a local shop. Local Shops: Bullard’s Beach State Park: It takes a bit of a drive to get there, but it’s an excellent des- Big Air (541) 347-2209 • There is an epic downwinder nearby. tination spot if you’re not a lucky local and is one of the many Langlois, OR (541) 348-2213 gems that the Oregon Coast has to offer the kiteboard culture. www.big-air.com

The Sand Bar Hood River, OR Launch Information Official Name: Sand Bar Local Shops and Schools: INSIDER TIPS Drawing crowds of curious onlook- Nick Name: Kite Beach, Gay Bar Big Winds (888) 509-4210 (Shop and School) • Don’t piss off the windsurfers by riding ers to the rivers edge, the Sand Bar Cross Streets: 2nd Street & the unnamed road behind in front of the Event Site. is the most popular place to ride the 76 gas station Storm Warning (800) 492-6309 (Shop and School) • When the devil wind blows out of the (and to watch) in the Gorge. A Best Season: Spring - Fall south, check out other spots in the cor- favorable learning environment Best Direction: West Windwing ridor because chances are it’s better Laura Maher gets in your face. Photo Dave Smith (531) 386-3861(Shop) somewhere else. (except when it gets too crowded) Average Kite Size: 8-12 coupled with a large number of New Wind Kite School • When the river level is moderately-low Conditions: Flat water in the ponds and increasing (541) 387-2440 (School) to low, head upwind of Wells Island for kiteboarding schools make this wind chop/swell as you go to the outside. place the most popular place to Places to stay: flat water but watch out for stumps. Level of Riding: Beginner-Pro 2 learn in the Northwest. With an Hood River Hotel (800) 386-1859 • Downwinders from The Hook to the easy launch, knee to waist-deep water, a flat water pond Launch: Varies with water level fluctuations: wide-open Best Western (800) 828-7873 Sand Bar can be great for intermediate sandy beach to a cramped strip of sand for rigging. kiters, but watch out for windsurfers as Sunset Motel (800) 706-4429 and being located at the heart of the Gorge (Hood River, OR), Very beginner friendly. you make your way down. Be careful at the Sand Bar offers something for kiters of every level. Tucker Campgrounds (541) 386-4477 this launch, it can be a tricky one

Stevenson Stevenson, WA Launch Information Official Name: Stevenson Local Schools: INSIDER TIPS Dubbed the windiest spot on the Nick Name: East Point Skamania County Parks & Rec. river , Stevenson, WA usually • When it blows west your downwinder Cross Streets: Cascade and Russell 509-427-9478 options are plentiful. Put in at serves up all the wind you can get Renee Hanks Best Season: Late spring - early fall Stevenson and ride to: The Cemetery your hands on; it’s one of the few, 509-427-8852 (about 1/2 mile), Home Valley (4 miles) if not only places in the Gorge that Best Direction: Westerlies (easterlies too, but are or Hood River (17 Miles). rather infrequent) Places to stay: blows on both east and west Skamania Cove RV & Camping • NEVER launch upwind of the rock at the Average Kite Size: 10-12 winds. Home of the annual Bridge 509-427-4900 end of the point, and NEVER jump it. Conditions: Wind chop w/ flatter water on the inside of the Gods Kiteboard Festival and Econo Lodge • The launch/landing can be tricky, so be Gorge Games Blowout, Stevenson Level of Riding: Intermediate - Pro 509-427-5628 sure to ask an informed local on how to 3 launch if you haven’t ridden there. is arguably one of the most com- Launch: Not for beginners; cramped setup area, rocky Skamania Lodge munity oriented kiteboarding locations in the Northwest. onshore launch which can be intimidating. 509-427-7700 • When it blows east a downwinder from Home Valley to Stevenson can be a Ironically, there isn’t a single shop in town, but that’s alright Local Shops: good alternative to fighting the current. because this place usually dishes up some of the steadiest None wind in the Gorge. Go to Hood River or Portland Brian Wheeler enjoys a summer afternoon at the Sand Bar Photo Dustin Penman NORTHERN EXPOSURE

Rufus Rufus, OR Rufus offers consistently windy conditions for intermediate level riders Dave Tyburski makes handle passes look easy despite the gusty Gorge conditions. Photo Mike Ellis and pros. If you’re working on body drags, or staying upwind, the fast downstream current makes it easier and eliminates the need for the walk of shame (walking back to where you started after drifting down- wind). For accomplished kiters this place can be amazing as well. Additionally, the excellent wind quality, ability to camp on-site, and short drive from Hood River (45 minutes) makes Rufus an appealing destination for kiters of all levels.

Launch Information

Official Name: Rufus Level of Riding: Beginner - Pro Places to stay: Jeff Roberts gets inverted. Photo Dave Smith Cross Streets: Rock Beach Lane Launch: Onshore winds, a small Free camping on site INSIDER TIPS and John Day Dam Lane (exit 109 launch area where the kiter has to Tyee Motel off I-84) launch from the water, plus a fast 541-739-2310 • Ride up to The Wall for some of the Best Season: Spring - Fall (spring current makes this site challenging Gorge’s largest swell. for the inexperienced. Peach Beach can be gusty though) Next to Maryhill State Park • If you can’t body drag very fast the Best Direction: West - Southwest Local Shops: 509-733-4698 current might snatch your board from you so be sure to put your name/number Average Kite Size: 8-12 None (Go to Hood River) Travelodge on it. Conditions: Waves and flat water. Local Schools: 4At Biggs Junction • Check out the flat water ponds upwind Swell on the outside (WA side), flat- Seattle Kiteboarding Center 877-678-9330 of the launch on the Oregon side. ter water on the inside (OR side) Seattle WA 206-779-3272 www.gokiting.com • Wind can come up quick, so be aware of sudden changes in wind speed.

Jetty Island Everett, WA

With a two mile sandy beach, steady jetty winds, and a buttery smooth pond, Jetty Island in Everett, WA has become the place to ride for kiteboarders in the Seattle area and offers some of the steadiest winds in the Northwest. A free ferry service shuttles riders from the boat launch to the jetty every day except on Mon. or Tues. which is the ferry workers’ day off. (See Insider Information for schedule) Many riders head across the channel in kayaks, inflatable boats or ski boats and ride until sunset. And with good reason...this place is SICK! Launch Information Official Name: Jetty Island Launch: Big open sandy beach on Local Schools: Nick Name: The Jetty, Kite Beach, low tide, cramped onshore launch Seattle Kiteboarding Center INSIDER TIPS on high tide (although there’s room Skunk Island Seattle, WA (206) 779-3272 • Ferry starts at 10am from Wed-Sat, to walk your kite out a healthy dis- www.gokiting.com Cross Streets: Marine View Drive tance into the shallows for a safe 11am on Sun, and operates about every and 10th Ave. launch). Places to stay: 30 minutes or so. Last ferry back is usu- ally at 6. No service Mon-Tues. Ferry Best Season: Summer No camping on the Local Shops: operates Memorial Day — Labor Day. Best Direction: Northwest island although, you can stay 1 Urban Surf one night on a boat at the dock. • Hit up the buttery smooth sweetness of Conditions: Small wind chop and Seattle, WA (206) 545-9463 (registration required) Jason’s Hole when the tide is high. on high tide Jason’s Hole/Pond www.urbansurf.com • Lots of metal and debris towards south offers buttery conditions Travelodge of Everett Wiley's Water Ski Shop (Wiley’s)5 end of beach. Steer clear of shallows. Everett, WA (425) 259-6141 Average Kite Size: 16 Seattle, WA (206) 762-1300 www.wileyski.com • Check out www.seattlekitesurfing.org Level of Riding: Beginner-Pro for Kite Night information and tons of Photo Brian Wheeler local insider info. 43 NORTHERN EXPOSURE

Fort Stevens Warrenton, OR Launch Information Official Name: Fort Stevens State Park Gorge Performance INSIDER TIPS Located at the mouth of the Nick Name: South Jetty, Lot C Portland, OR (503) 246-6646 Columbia River in the Northwest www.gorgeperformance.com • For downwinders leave a car down at Cross Streets: Fort Stevens State Park beach access Peter Iredale (south of Lot A) and put in All Surf Industry corner of Oregon, Fort Stevens road and Lot C at Lot C (South Jetty). Don’t ride past Portland OR (503) 239-8973 State Park was once a military Best Season: Spring - Fall the shipwreck unless you want to miss defense base, but in recent years www.allsurfindustry.com/ your car. If something goes wrong you can Best Direction: Northwest this 3700-acre park became a Local Schools: None hike out at Lot A, B or walk the beach. popular place for kiteboarding. Average Kite Size: 10-16 Places to stay: • Don’t launch too close to the jetty, With miles of sandy beach, Conditions: Mushy wind chop to well over head high Fort Stevens State Park/Campground there’s a wind shadow; launch further waves (800) 6452-5687 downwind where the wind’s cleaner. sideshore winds and plenty of swell, no wonder it’s such a sweet Level of Riding: Intermediate-Pro www.oregonstateparks.org • The lagoon near Lot D serves up some nice flat water on easterlies. place to ride! One great thing about riding here is the waves Launch: Wide open sandy beach Astoria KOA (800) 562-8506 • Wear at least a 4/3 full even at the Local Shops: Shilo Inn Warrenton (503) 861-2181 (when they’re good), but riding 3-4 miles downwind in good peak of summer because this water is waves makes it even better! If it’s not happening here you’ve Pacific Wave COLD. got plenty of options within a few hours drive. Warrenton, OR (866) 548-3967 www.kiteworld.net

Sauvie’s Island Sauvie’s Island, OR Launch Information Official Name: Sauvie’s Island Local Shops: INSIDER TIPS Steady thermal winds and close Nick Name: Sauvie’s, Reeder Beach Gorge Performance proximity to the Portland area • Watch out for the occasional barge; Cross Streets: From Highway 30, follow Reeder Road Portland, OR (503) 246-6646 don’t get caught in their massive wind might explain why Sauvie’s Island to the northwest end of island (contact local shop for www.gorgeperformance.com shadow. All Surf Industry is such a popular light wind kiting directions) • The wind tends to get lighter the further spot. Conditions are usually best Best Season: Spring - Fall Portland, OR (503) 239-8973 downwind you go; don’t go past the www.allsurfindustry.com/ on sunny days with winds kicking Best Direction: Straight North overturned boat cause the wind can get in around 4-5 p.m. and blowing Local Schools: real funky. Average Kite Size: 16 and up (14 on a good day) until sundown or so. It can get a bit All Surf Industry (See Local Shops) • For stronger winds ride up to the island. Conditions: Wind chop tidal here, so if it’s affecting your Kiteboard7 Oregon • Those looking to get into the sport upwind ability, catch it on an out- Level of Riding: Beginner - Pro (503) 407-5130 might want to check out Kite Nights ; going tide or rig larger. Sauvie’s is an excellent place to learn Launch: Beginner friendly with miles of sandy beach www.kiteboardoregon.com contact All Surf Industry for dates/times. and to work on your handlepasses. Places to stay: None (Go to Portland)

Jones Beach Clatskanie, OR Launch Information Official Name: Jones Beach All Surf Industry INSIDER TIPS Jones Beach is an excellent desti- Cross Streets: 4 miles west of Clatskanie off Highway Portland, OR (503) 239-8973 nation for kiters just getting into www.allsurfindustry.com • The wind can crank up a few notches in 30 look for the brown Jones Beach sign. a matter of 30 minutes, so come in the sport and can be killer for Best Season: Spring - Fall Pacific Wave when it starts to be too much to handle. advanced riders as well. A typical Warrenton, OR (866) 548-3967 Best Direction: Anything West www.kiteworld.net • On transitional days when the Gorge is setup is for the wind to build slow still recovering from easterlies, Jones Average Kite Size: 8-12 and steady, with opportunities for Local Schools: Beach is usually the first place on the larger kites in the a.m. and small- Conditions: Wind chop that varies with wind speed, Seattle Kiteboarding Center Columbia to start blowing west again. and cleaner wind swell on WA side. er kites in the p.m. The thermal Seattle, WA (206) 779-3272 • Incoming tides can affect your ability to influence usually kicks in mid Level of Riding: Beginner - Pro www.gokiting.com8 stay upwind, so you might want to rig a afternoon when the pressure gra- Launch: Beginner friendly and wide-open sandy beach. All Surf Industry (See Local Shops) bit bigger under these circumstances. dient between Astoria and Portland is .04 or greater and Local Shops: Kiteboard Oregon (503) 407-5130 • If you’re looking for cleaner wind swell or stronger winds head to Nuclear there’s at least a 10 degree temperature difference between Gorge Performance www.kiteboardoregon.com Alley on the WA side the two. Optimal gradients are .03-.10 and .11 and up if Portland, OR (503) 246-6646 Places to stay: • Fultonios in Clatskanie serves up a you’ve got a small kite. www.gorgeperformance.com Free camping onsite but no facilities. Dave Smith takes time off from shooting photos. Photo Barb Smith mean pizza. Clatskanie River Inn (503) 728-9000 The Legend of Breakfast with Bones. Jim Bones

Story and Photos by Adam Koch

Jim “Bones” McManus Nickname: Bones Background: surfing, Born: August 24th, 1937 skateboarding, snowboarding, I 've known Dr. Jim Bones, aka “Bones” for about five years. Years Kiteboarding: 5 tow-surfing, windsurfing. Honestly, I have never met anyone as sincere and truthful as this Sponsors: Naish Home: Maui, Hawaii man. He would never tell a lie and he would never knock you Adam Koch: (I hit the record as Bones started telling one of his stories) Suspended in the Maui skyline, Bones styles out a tail grab. down from your adrenalin high of life. He is nothing but kind- Bones: Do you remember when I fell asleep out there kiting? This was ness mixed with a bit of craziness. In my early days of living in maybe two years ago. I'm kiting one of those four or five-hour long sessions and I'm riding right into the sun. I got my head turned away from the sun Maui, Jim was my benefactor through the thick and thin of my and my eyes are closed. So pretty soon I'm just waiting for that tack to be Adam: What kites, length of lines, length bar and what type of harness do camping/kiteboarding lifestyle. He and I recently got together over with. The next thing you know. I wake up to the sound of the kite hit- you use? ting the water. As I wake up, I say to myself, "oh, I'm kiting.” About 20 min- Bones: I use Naish kites exclusively being that I am sponsored by Naish. I and recorded this interview. Hopefully you will enjoy getting to utes later it happened again. (Bones chuckles out loud) know one of the most inspirational kiteboarders and friend I use the Boxer and X4 kites. The Boxers are my favorite because they are real- Adam: When did you move to Hawaii and which island did you move to first? ly stable in the nasty Maui winds. I use a seat harness too. As for bar and have ever known. lines, I use a 20 inch bar and 22 meter lines--occasionally I use 24 meter lines. Bones: I moved to the big island in 1973. I tried living for a year on Kauai but couldn't get a thing done — the surf was so beautiful. There was no way to earn Adam: If you were going to ride in the waves using a kite, what board a living. All you could do was surf and maintain sanity. I lived on the big island would you ride? for about 16 years and then moved to Maui. I was getting addicted to the wind Bones: It totally depends on the situation: wind direction, swell, wind and windsurfing and Maui seemed to be the place, so that's where I went. speed, my fear level. Certainly if the winds are lighter and gentler the surf- Adam: When you moved over to Maui, what was your living situation like? board with a small kite is the way to go. I really enjoy the blending of both of these sports. If the waves get gnarlier and the wind is “changing” or “jerky”, Bones: When I first came over to Maui, we used to just camp. I bought a I'll be on a twintip with straps. I like them all. It’s kind of like there are days little van that I would leave over here and store at the airport when I left. when you need your pickup truck. And there are days you're going to need Every time we knew the swell was big on the Big Island, we'd be good but your Porsche. I think you need a variety of tools for a variety of conditions. when we heard the wind came up on Maui, we hopped on a plane--seven- teen minutes later we were on Maui. That routine lasted maybe six months Adam: When's the last time you left Maui? before I finally moved for good. Bones: I used to leave Maui every year and go snowboarding, but as soon Adam: Who first introduced you or inspired you to get into kiteboarding? as I touched that kite and got my first lesson it was over. I've been so addict- ed and so mesmerized by it that I can't leave long enough to go snowboard- Bones: It's the age old story. I saw Lou Wainman and Elliot Leboe. They ing. I haven't left Maui in five years from the exact date I started kiting. were ripping it up at Kanaha and it looked really fun. I was windsurfing right next to them, and I thought, that's just a downwind sport you know — it's Adam: If you had the choice between the perfect session by yourself or a dangerous. Next thing I know they are kicking my butt upwind going faster decent session with all your friends, which would you choose? than me and holding a tighter line. That's when I went into the beach and Bones: A decent session with all my friends, certainly. I really consider that said, "OK Elliot what's up? What's with this kiting gear?” I got my first les- son from Sierra Emory. The minute I touched the kite, that was it. every kiter out there is my friend. You know even though I might not have met the person, I know they are enjoying the same joy I am. I really don't Adam: Your claim to fame in Maui is that you tend to outlast everybody mind the other guys out on the water. If you've ever truly been alone some- on the water. How do you stay motivated on the water and what keeps you where in life you realize that the first joy of life is people. out there so long? Adam: Where might people run into you on Maui? Bones: Opportunity. Most people spend 50 weeks out of the year so they Bones: In Maui you will find me most of the time in the Paia Fish Market, can get those two weeks to go out and kite. You can always do the banking and email at night. The rest of the world can be structured around kiting having an Ahi sandwich. You can’t beat it--Seven dollars, a lot of protein. In very easily. In anything I do, I always try and do the most fun thing first and the morning you will find me at Moana Cafe' in Paia. Yep, if you had to put a contract out on my life I would be pretty easy to find. Again, thanks to Bones sessions his favorite spot above Kite Beach, Maui. then get to the other things. I don't know if I've got it figured out or not. You can spend money on this and that but none of that really matters. All Naish and everyone in the industry that has in any way increased my fun in we really spend here is time. I want to spend my time kiting. As a result of this endeavor. 46 that, I seem to be marathon man. For the complete interview, go to www.kbmag.com. 47 Exposed

Clockwise from top

Caribbean sunset after a Dominican session. Photo Rocky Carduci

Rarotonga soul session. Photo Tracy Kraft

Susi Mai tastes victory in Maui. Photo Adam Koch

Andre Phillip’s slider park in Antigua. Photo Nicholas Fitt

Tina Harrison suspended in the Australian sky line. Photo John Carter

The swell hits Punta San Carlos, Baja, California. Photo Clark Merritt

Heading to the Hood. Photo Brian Wheeler

John Amundson shapes surfboards and kiteboards for a living. This day he sneaks away to do some research and development on one of his new boards. Photo Jeff Pfeffer 48 Exposed

Hamish Macdonald sets up his second kicker to picnic table gap stunt in the Florida, Keys. This one ended when he wrapped himself around the table. Photo Ryan Riccitelli

Adam Koch entertains a Labor Day party barge on Lake St. Claire, Canada. Photo Ryan Riccitelli

The red sunset session was the perfect moment to capture Jason Stone’s 50/50 rail slide. Every beach should have such great assistance. Hawaii. Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Photo Greg Gnecco Photo Jeff Pfeffer Exposed

Moe Goold airs out of the section looking like he has Velcro on his feet. Felix Pivec signs his name on the lip. Hawaii. Photo Jeff Pfeffer Training everyday in Maui, Tuva Jansen lives the dream. Hawaii. Don Montague’s team pushes new boundaries. Hawaii. Photo Adam Koch Hawaii. Photo Tracy Kraft Photo Charles Oreve

Nina Johansson is all smiles on the water. Hawaii. Photo Jeff Pfeffer Pete Cabrinha surfs textbook waves in Rarotonga. Photo Tracy Kraft Hatteras slicks are the summer training grounds that push Mike Norman’s Tuva Jansen enjoys a Maui sunset. Photo Charles Oreve riding level to the top. North Carolina. Photo Greg Gnecco

52 53 Exposed

Chris Gutzeit tears at the lip of this “C” Street section. Ventura, California. Photo Jason Wolcott The bridge is the perfect backdrop to capture Damien Leroy warming up for the King of the Bay competition. California. Photo Paul Jav

Andre Phillip shows once again why he dominates rails with his front side board slide. North Carolina. Photo Greg Gnecco Central coast photographer Jason Wolcott randomly captures Wes Matweyew enjoying an after work session. Emma Wood, California. 54 Exposed

Ben Meyers committed in a kite loop. Photo Stephen Whitesell.

Evening session in Western OZ. Western Australia, Photo Ryan Riccitelli Palms on speed — Hana Highway, Maui. Photo Adam Koch

Lloyd Huber kiteboards Brooklyn, New York — Winner of the “Send It” photo contest. Photo Jonathon Baker.

Reo Stevens hits the sweet spot of the section. Hawaii. Photo Jeff Pfeffer Kitesnowboarding pioneer Guillaume Chastagnol hucks huge air on his home turf. France. Photo Bertrand Boone 57 Journey Into the Indian Ocean: The Island of

MauritiusStory by Felix Pivec Photos by Ryan Riccitelli

Before leaving on any kind of trip you do your research. This time round it was a little harder as our destination was somewhat untapped. We had lots of questions, but almost no answers. Luckily, we were blessed with a full week of insane riding in conditions that challenged us all. If there was a universal word for incredible, Mauritius would have to come close. Driving out to the most southern tip of the island, venturing through sugar cane fields to bays of tranquil beauty, our eyes had to do a double take on what they were taking in. Dozens of kiting spots waiting to be ridden—everything from reeling waves to butter smooth flats. The place was going off.

Felix58 Pivec drops into a freight train left on the biggest day of the trip. Kite at your own risk. This break has claimed several lives. 59 On the smaller days, the reef kicks up a fun little rolling left.

Neal Hilder tests out the new Airush board The Spot construction as he grinds the wharf. Looking out to sea for the first time was an unforgettable experience. I quickly noticed two cuts in the outside barrier reef and waves reeling for hundreds of yards at what looked like a very solid size. The barrier reef ended about a half mile off the island and it was hard to make out exactly how big it was. Way off the tip of the point there was a wave that could be described as a cylinder that bowled for miles traveling at a speed that looked challenging if not impossible to outrun.. The locals warned us to be careful because they lose several people a year from the dangerous currents. This didn’t seem to bother anyone. The spot had something for every style — from inside flats to perfect grinding down the line conditions on the outer reefs. Jet lag was not even an issue at this point. Within half an hour José Luengo was warming up in the inside lagoon with some solid handle passes. Neal Hilder from England was representing the homeland with a whole new level of new school moves. Mr. Julian Sudrat rode straight out back to sample some Indian Ocean waves which to even the most experienced riders would still be a handful. Riding till the sun turned into a big fireball before it fell to the other side the world was a great way to finish the first session of the trip. Everyone was almost speech- less. We managed to pack up our gear and head to the bar for a few rewarding drinks. Dream Sessions Awaking to the palm trees almost blowing over was standard on this trip. The wind never blew under twenty knots — perfect small kite conditions. Many of us know how it feels to go to a spot and get skunked. Call it luck, but we road seven days straight. The swell situation changed daily from flat to a solid ten feet. We were lucky the bigger stuff came later in the week when everyone had dialed in their equipment and figured out the wave breaks on the super shallow reef. Julian Sudrat and Vanessa Sans Cardona at the Indian Resort pool.

60 The remote tropical landscape behind Julian’s handle pass illustrates how undeveloped this spot is. Julian Sudrat boosts the camera boat. Julian Sudrat spent six hours on this day kiteboarding the ultimate left.

The shallow reef you see off the coast helps make the waves break incredibly.

The boys chilling out after a The inside flats were perfect long day of work. for Felix’s kite loops.

The Last Day Like always, if the consumption of liquor is high the night before, the next day will for sure be firing. Our last day was no exception to this rule. We awoke to one of the biggest swells the island has seen in many years. With no time to waste José and Julian charged out to the break to get a taste of what for sure were some of the gnarliest conditions any of us had ever kited. José raced down the line in double overhead, top to bottom waves looking for the cover up. José was getting close as Julian tried to answer right back. The conditions were dangerously big and the channel was completely closed out which meant no rescue. The biggest sets were easily triple overhead above a razor sharp reef. Everyone had to be on. After about an hour the waves started closing out and became unridable. When everyone made it in, each of us reconfirmed that Mauritius had dished out the gnarliest conditions we had ever kited. Julian’s eyes were as big as saucers. It was great to see that a place was out there that could still test the skill level of some of the world’s best wave riders. After seven days of kiteboarding in every extreme condition imaginable, our bodies were sun scorched and sore from head to toe. No one was complaining. The destination that we had explored was what dreams are made of – at least for kitesurfers! Mauritius is windy and the beer is good. While it is a far away place to travel, the waves and winds of this Fantasy Island will forever be remembered.

Felix stretches before a morning session. Mauritius Island Facts Conditions Accomodations The seasons in the southern hemisphere are the Indian Resort, Le Morne, Mauritius www.apavou-hotels.com This place is straight out of a opposite of the north. The best season is Winter, James bond movie. The Indian Resort is a 4-star resort built in the middle of nowhere complete which is June to September. However, the with everything from restaurants to poolside bars to plush rooms. Surrounded by a gleaming remaining months can still offer kiteboarders emerald blue bay with 20 knots of wind and perfect waves outside of the barrier reef, if you excellent conditions. Generally, the trade winds have the budget you won’t regret a stay here. $225US/night Pik Pik Apartments/ Le Morne blow from the east to southeast. December to April Brabant, Mauritius can be relatively rainy. The island claims 300 www.tropicscope.com/clientdetails.asp?ID=474 The Pik Pik Studios offer a more moderately days of wind per year. priced alternative to the Indian Resort Hotel — located at the foot of Brabant Mountain. Launch $50US/night including airport transfers You can take off directly in front of the Club Mistral Centre. The wind is sideshore from the left. The Transportation beach section to windward is approx half a mile long. The entire lagoon is bordered by a reef, located You can arrange a ride from the airport to the hotel, but if you really want to explore the about 600 yards offshore. island it is best to rent a car and/or driver to find the sick spots. School Nightlife Club Mistral, Skyriders Center www.club-mistral.com The night life on the south side of the island where we were was non existent. Your only Getting There 62 hope for entertainment is hanging out with the local Kiteboarding crew or tearing it up with Believe it or not, the best way to get to Mauritius from the U.S. is out of London or Paris. other hotel guests. Progression

Damien Wright Words by Owner of www.eastcoastkiteboarding.com, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sponsored by North Kiteboarding, and Hana Crew Kiteboards.

5 4 3 2

1 With your kite at 45 degrees, bear downwind allowing yourself to accelerate. Edge hard against the kite and Back Roll look for a piece of chop to pop off. with Julie Simsar 2 Once you leave the water, look over your front shoulder to initiate the rotation.

Photos Robert Vreeland 3 Make sure you continue to look over your shoulder until you can spot your landing.

7 6 Control your rotation by pulling the bar closer to speed up the rotation or letting the bar out to slow the rotation. 1

The back roll is usually the first trick everyone learns. 4-5

> > They can be done in flat water or off a wave for more amplitude. 6 Keep your knees bent and spot your landing. > 7 Absorb the impact with your legs and ride away.

QUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCE >

> Front Roll with Damien LeRoy Photos Ryan Riccitelli > This is a great trick that has many variations. Try it with a grab or riding switch.

1 With your kite at 45 degrees, bear downwind allowing yourself to accelerate. Edge away from the kite to generate pop. If you ride in the waves look for a piece of chop to pop off. 2 As you leave the water, throw your head and shoulder forward looking down at your takeoff. Remember, the more you pull your legs in the quicker you spin. 3 At the apex of the front start to spot your landing. Begin to straighten your body to slow the rotation. If you are over rotating, try to straighten your body a little sooner.

2 1

4 Let your backhand off the bar to keep your balance. Keep your eyes on the landing and get ready to absorb the landing. 5 Keep your knees bent and land centered. Remember to keep the kite low, so you don’t land slow. 6 5 4 3 Progression 720 Indy Super Spin with Alex Zavadsky Photos Robert Vreeland

11 12 10 13 9 14 15 8 16 7 17 6 18 4 5 3 19 12 1 Start this trick by bearing downwind to allow yourself to accelerate. Edge hard against the 4-10 Bone out your front leg for more style points. 20 kite and send the kite similar to a jump. 11-15 At the apex of the spin, begin to pull on your front hand with more force. Keep your 21 2 As you leave the water, keep the bar centered not pulling to hard on the front hand. As you head looking over your shoulder until you make the second rotation. pop off the water, start the rotations by looking over your back shoulder. 16-19 Spot your landing and begin to bend at the knees to absorb the landing. 3 Reach down for the indy grab while at the same time pulling your legs up. The tighter your 20-21 As you touch down be sure to edge away from the kite. > > > body, the faster you will spin. QUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCESEQUENCE Skimboard Kite Loop Ollie Method Air with Bryan Lake

Photos Robert Vreeland

8 9 7 10 6 11

5 12 13 14 3 4

1 2 1-3 Set your rail and edge firmly against the kite. As you reverse the kite ollie your board. 8-11 Start to put the board back under your feet, while the kite is looping or after it has As you lift off the water, reach down with your back hand and grab the board between looped and spot your landing. your heels. The key is pushing the board into the wind by using your feet and then ollie 12 Get your feet on the board and get ready to absorb the landing. like you are on a skateboard. > > > 4-7 As you go into the air, tweak out the board with your left hand. You can even toss it and 13-14 Let go of the board and simultaneously extend your legs for the landing. Stomp when grab it again, making it a varial, or shuv it. Try and stay compressed and start to pull hard the water is close. The kite should be finished looping. The key is to land fast, moving on the kite, keeping it going backwards initiating the loop. forward dead downwind. You can also do this move without looping your kite. You will 66 have to push the bar to correct the kite. 67 Alpenglow at Mt. Hood. Photo Dan Sherwood The cross-winds provide perfect lift for MountMount HoodHood “ jumps that are the biggest of my life. AdventureAdventure ”

Story by Ken Lucas Photos by Dan Sherwood

Riding on the edge of the world — Palmer Glacier. Photo Dan Sherwood Ken Lucas drops off a serac on Mt. Hood. Photo Dan Sherwood

woke up to the morning light with thoughts of Time to fly. I eagerly pull the kite out, put my telemark skis on, and launch line to take the wind out of the kite. I come to a slow stop. I stuff the kite in my myself up the mountain by steering the kite into its power zone. Within a pack and have a quick bite to eat. I check my watch and realize that I just skiing beautiful corn snow and the vision of my kite few minutes I pass by the mountain climbers that started 30 minutes ahead ascended 4,000 vertical feet in 45 minutes. Normally this trip would take 4 Snowkiting at Mt. Hood: slicing the clear blue sky. My starting point at of me. I am travelling about the same speed as a chair lift. It is not a race to hours and a lot of sweat. ITimberline Lodge sizzles with early morning energy as hundreds of the top but my adrenaline is already pumping, as I glide over the snow Access: Timberline Lodge, (503) 622-7979, Now it is time to ski down. My route brings me through some challenging www.timberlinelodge.com. teenagers gear up for their ski racing and snowboarding summer camps. hooked in. It doesn’t get better than this. I didn’t even have to buy a lift ticket. terrain. This part of the mountain is riddled with crevasses and large seracs. Groups of novice mountain climbers cram their ropes and ice axes into As I enter a large, open area I can’t resist altering my plans to include a little These seracs are chunks of the glacier that have sheared-off like giant ice cubes. Season: Late spring through early summer is best. huge packs for their first real mountain climb. A busload of foreign visitors freestyle session. The cross-winds provide perfect lift for jumps that are the My caution on the steep terrain turns to some high speed cruising on the gets their first taste of a snowball fight. The place is bustling with activity. Terrain: Kite outside the boundary on the west side of the ski biggest of my life. Even the small jumps give me the sensation of soaring lower slopes. Above it all, 11,200-foot Mt. Hood commands respect in her cloak of early effortlessly across the snow. The mountain summit looms above me and is resort and above tree line. For travel above the 8,000 morning alpenglow. calling out to me. I leave my little playground and head back up. I ski down until the snow runs out into the parking lot. Immediately, I shed foot level, glacier training is required. For clinics on Leaving the parking lot there are a few modes of transportation being used some layers and enjoy the mid day sun. My body fills with elation as I glance up mountain travel including glacier travel contact: Ascending quickly I take in the spectacular views of the surrounding Cascade at the s-tracks in the snow. I quickly throw my gear in the car and race down to www.timberlineguides.com. to get up the mountain. Most of the skiers and snowboarders choose to Mountains. I pass the top of the ski lift located at 8,500 feet and keep right ride the high-speed chair lift. The mountain climbers start their medita- the Columbia River Gorge for a quick afternoon of kite surfing on the water. on going towards the summit of the mountain. Up ahead of me is Crater What adventure will my dreams bring me to next? Lessons: Contact Ken Lucas at www.telefair.com. tions as they trudge up the mountain on foot. A few telemark skiers put Rock and off to the west the towering Illumination Rock. I edge hard to keep skins on their skis for striding up the mountain along with their excited as far to the east as possible. The wind starts to get light and shifty as I enter Ken Lucas rides for Ozone Kites and kiteboards each summer in Hood River, Oregon. He travels dogs. For me, I walk over to the edge of the parking lot where the trees thin the south side of the volcanic crater. Reaching forward I pull on my brake around the country teaching snowkiting and telemark ski clinics in the winter. out and the breeze is steady to start setting up. 68 69 Analyze This...

CAUTION www.cautionkites.com SLINGSHOT www.sskiteboarding.com MISSING LINK STOPPER BALLS HOW IT WORKS: HOW IT WORKS: A new bi-directional mutant style board with an off centered stance. Designed for wave The stopper balls give the rider the ability to adjust the length of the chicken loop line. You can riding with bigger fins on the tail, but can be ridden in flat water. Concave bottom, tucked rails, adjust them on the water but make sure to keep the screw tight. The shorter the distance light, indented grab rails, and 6 fins. between the balls the less depower you have. The balls allow you to ride standard or unhooked Size: 135 x 38.74cm and can be put on most chicken loop lines. Adjustable Stopper Balls SAFETY FEATURES: SAFETY FEATURES: Shark resistant. Ability to increase the length of the chicken loop distance for maximum de-power. TIPS: TIPS: 1. Adjust them on land and always be sure they are tight. 1. Make sure to experiment with the different fin options for surf or flat water. 2. Try them tight to each side of the control bar for locked in power. 2. Spend some time to dial in your straps.

Photos courtesy of Caution Kites 3. Set the upper ball so that you can’t over sheet.

Photo Gary Martin Top Bottom

NAISH www.naishkites.com BEST www.bestkiteboarding.com TORCH NEMESIS HOW IT WORKS: HOW IT WORKS: The new Torch is a medium aspect kite with a deep draft. Two new systems have been intro- The Nemesis is their high performance/high aspect kite. This is the top of the line in their duced: the Octopus System and the Shift System. This kite is designed for the aggressive quiver. The kite is designed for stability, quick turning and lots of lift. freerider. The Octopus System is a single point inflation system similar to the idea of a one pump. All components of this system are internal designed to create a clean aerodynamic flow. Sizes: 24, 21, 18, 16, 14, 12, 10, 8 meters. The Shift System (Naish’s 5th line) works by pulling on the line and the kite rolls over on its SAFETY FEATURES: back and is ready to relaunch. This system also acts as a kite safety leash. Standard center line leash with quick release at bar. Sizes: 25, 20, 18,16, 14, 12, 10, 8, 6 meters. SAFETY FEATURES: TIPS: 1. This kite uses the standard Shift System. 100% depower if activating the Quick Release 1. Pump the bladders really hard. Trim Loop and letting go of the bar. 2. Experiment with attachment points. 3. Close all valves when folding to keep sand out. 2. Easy relaunch by pulling on the 5th line.

TIPS: Photo courtesy of Best Kiteboarding 1. Pump the bladders really hard. 2. Close the Octopus System before folding up the kite to keep sand from entering the valve. 3. Make sure you know how to tune the kite before using. Gear Purchasing Pitfalls THE INFLATOR 6 1 > Don’t buy a used kite unless you know it’s history of use or abuse. HOW IT WORKS: 2 > Don’t buy solely based on price. Compare the features and packages being offered. The Inflator is a battery operated kite pump that is easy to use. Connect the hose to the valve 3 > Don’t buy everything off of the internet. Support your local shop. and press a button and your kite begins to automatically inflate. The pump is easily trans- portable and comes with a 12 V battery they say will pump up 10 kites. The pump recharges in 4 > Don’t buy your old gear from a friend unless he/she is almost giving it to you. your car in two hours plugged into a cigarette lighter or can be plugged into a wall socket. Never do business with friends. 5 > Don’t buy shackles. The new safety systems are safer. TIPS: 1. Make sure to recharge after you use. 6 > Don’t buy a new pump if you break yours. Borrow one from your friend. 2. A 24 hour wall socket recharge works best. $$$$$$ 3. Try and keep sand and debris out of the pump

70 Photos courtesy of Naish Kites 71 Academy When rails go wrong—bail! Photo Greg Gnecco Vytas Cijunelis sent us this boardless superman from Montrose Beach, Chicago. Photo courtesy of Vytas Skimboard Neal Hilder gets a mouth full of sea water. 1010 Photo Michelle Zuniga Tips to Help You

Rip By Bryan Lake

Ben Myers came up short on a kite loop. Photo Stephen Whitesell

Bryan Lake looks for a lip to smack. Photo Diego Velasco Bryan and his best friend. Photo Diego Velasco

1What's the best way to start out on a skimboard? 2What size board should I start out on? The best way to start out is to get out there and try. Pick a light I ride the big Cabal SX51 and the new fire model. Usually, bigger wind day and put your mind to it. It’s best to start off a little under boards are better because you can land harder easier, go faster powered. and have better upwind ability. Coming in hot on a kite loop can get sketchy. Photo Adam Koch

3How much smaller of a kite do I need to ride? 4How should I rig my bar? Jeff Tobias catches and edge while trying to land blind. Photo Greg Gnecco I like to rig the same size kite as I would use when riding a normal I rig a chicken loop with about 2-4 inches depower. I make sure

kiteboard — as if I want to jump. I also ride one size down for that my bar is a comfortable length for my arms and not too far Mike Norman polishes the rail waves or when I want to go really fast. In my opinion, a skim is one away. The best advice is to use a bar that you are comfortable with his ribs. Photo Greg Gnecco of the fastest boards. with. I am thinking of switching to a pulley. 5How long should my lines be? 6How do I get going on my board? I ride 15m lines right now. I find it helps me go faster and makes This is where it takes skill and good technique — you want to be it easier to loop the kite in the waves. Again, go with what you feel one with the board. Bending your knees, stabilizing yourself Mike Norman takes a beating learning powered mobes. Photo Greg Gnecco comfortable with. I think short lines are less to deal with. while holding the board and diving the kite low are all crucial to getting going on your board. As for grip, I use wax and astro deck.

Hamish Macdonald about to go down. 7What's the easiest way to set an edge? 8What are some common mistakes that people make? Photo Greg Gnecco You want to start out standing a little flatter, keeping you weight The most common mistakes people make include: not having centered over both feet and then shifting a little more on your back enough wax on their board, keeping the kite too high over head, foot. As you get more comfortable put more weight on your back not bending the knees enough and the frustration factor — Alex Le Clainche folded by the rail. foot and learn to edge harder. You will get going fast quickly on a remember you are out there to have fun. Photo Greg Gnecco skim because there are no fins. Learn to use the edge to help you control your speed. 9What is the lightest wind you can kite? 0What is the easiest first move to try? I have kited in some really light conditions. I only do it if I am real- Some really cool ones to start off with are 180’s off of a wave or ly jonesing to go. I went riding in San Diego in the surf on my big piece of chop. Don’t worry about which way you are turning, skim board, 20m lines and a 15m Type Six RRD kite. The wind was frontside or backside — whichever way feels more comfortable. probably 8-10 knots. When you get that down, reach down and throw a grab in. Aaron Sales kitesnowboards into freezing This guy is fingered. Photo Greg Gnecco waters. Photo Ken Lucas Academy SAFETY RICK

Assisted Boat Launch Kiteboard Associations By Rick Iossi, FKA Kiteboarding Associations often conjure up negative images. Many people think, Those guys — we just ignore em’ they’re like Words By Matt Nuzzo — REAL Kiteboarding the boy scouts . Most kiteboarders just want to ride with no one telling them what to do. Whether you want to believe it or not, the fact is, kiteboarding is at a time where this complacent attitude could lead to beaches being banned around the United States. Now is the time for riders to organize and set up protocol to protect their local spots. What Can an Association Do? Launching a kite is sure to kick your butt unless you do it right. Kiteboarding associations work against needless bans and help preserve local riding spots. This is especially the case if you are launching from a boat. The following are some examples of how associations are working to preserve the sport around the Untied States. Not all kiteboarders have the benefit of steady side shore winds blowing across Southern California Kiteboarding Association, Malibu Hawaii Kiteboarding Association, Maui an open sandy beach. If you find yourself in the situation where a boat launch Traig Trumbo, President and Senior Lifeguard Donnel Nunes & Martin Kirk is your only option, follow these simple steps to ensure you do it safely. • Works to secure access and legitimacy for local kiteboarders. • Helps to educate local government about safe kiteboarding, building legitimacy for the • Puts on kiteboarding orientation & rescue seminars for lifeguards, sheriffs deputies sport. and rescue chopper personnel. • Supports frequent public good works, cleanups, rescue seminars, etc. On Land Prep For A Boat Launch • Encourages lifeguards with donated gear and lessons to take up the sport. Carefully attach your lines. Seattle Kiteboarding Association • Your best bet is to fully set up your kiteboarding rig before you even get on the boat. You can do this in the parking Hawaii Kiteboarding Association, Oahu John Penexa, President lot, backyard, or on the dock. Noel “Spyder” President Making a Difference • Start out by fully unwrapping the lines off of your bar. Separate the lines so that you have your outside line • Works hard to preserve access on Oahu and the other islands. • In 2003, raised $2000 in a fundraiser for Sheldon Plentovich while she was in Seattle separated from your inside lines. • Tries to bridge kiteboarding with traditional Hawaiian values/pursuits despite the odd for a stem cell transplant. fit of rider attitude. • Hosts regular Kite Night orientations for new kiteboarders. • The next step is simple but key to making your boat launch go properly. Set up your lines to your kite like you would do with a standard beach launch as follows. Unroll your kite and attach the lines with the center lines to the front attachment points and your outside lines to the trailing edge attachment points. It is not brain surgery. Conclusion • After you attach your lines to your kite, wrap the bar up just like you have done before. Once you get to the kite, Kiteboarders just want to ride. Not everyone has the time to dedicate to running an association. Most associations were formed when trouble started. Many areas roll it up keeping the lines attached. It is important to make sure that the bar does not go through the center of The kite attached to the stern. were able to save access and build relationships with local government and authorities. Get involved with your local chapter. Your support could help keep your the kite while you are wrapping it up. If that happens you have to start over and it might be a long boat ride back. beach from being banned. If your area already has an association, you will be able to handle any issues. For associations and contact info, check out page 80.

On Boat Set Up • The only safe way to launch from a boat is to launch with an assistant. • The easiest way to launch is to anchor your boat, so the bow of the boat is fixed into the wind. If it is too deep to anchor, you can boat launch while the boat is drifting, but it is harder to do. • Remove the bar from inside of the kite and inflate your kite. While you are inflating the kite keep the bar off to the side of the kite. If you have an extra leash or some rope you can secure the inflated kite off of the stern of the boat. The assistant holds the kite.

Assisted Boat Launch • If you have worked your way up to a boat launch then you should be comfortable with an assisted launch. The main difference about launching from a boat and launching from the beach is that you have to swim while you unravel your lines. • While your kite is tied off to the stern of the boat, jump in the water and slowly unwind your lines off of the bar. Swim to the side of the wind window and make sure that your lines unravel one wrap at a time. • Once you have successfully unraveled your lines, you need to double check that your lines are straight by hold- The pilot swims into position. ing the bar out of the water and tensioning your lines. At this point your assistant can detach the kite from the stern of the boat, and they can hold the kite up so that both wing tips are pointed at the rider. It is important that the lines are set up perpendicular to the wind. This will ensure that the kite gets launched at the side of the wind window. • Once you have double-checked that your lines are set up correctly, swim away from the boat to fully tension the lines. When the lines tension, give your assistant the thumbs up and launch your kite.

When It All Goes Wrong

• The two main reasons that the assisted boat launch can go wrong is if you don’t have your gear prepped correct- The assistant readies for launch. ly or if there is not enough wind when you launch the kite. • If you did not set up your gear correctly before you got on the boat, you might have to abort your mission when you try to launch your kite. You need to make sure that you always wear a safety leash while doing a boat launch, so you don’t lose your entire rig if you have to abort the mission. If your lines are tangled, you will need to go back to the dock to set it up right. Or your assistant may be able to detach lines and reattach to correct the problem. • If there is not enough wind to launch your kite, it should just fall into the water. If this happens it is always easi- est to just water relaunch your kite rather than try to have your assistant pick it up in the boat. Photos courtesy of Real Kiteboarding Matt Nuzzo coaches for REAL kiteboarding in Cape Hatteras North Carolina. For more info check out A successful launch. www.REALkiteboarding.com or call 1.866.REAL.KITE WorkbenchWorkbench

Problem: How do I properly tie Q-Powerline line so that it won't break? Solution: All line can break, but using "figure 8", overhand or even square knots have worked well in the past. These have served very well with few failures. Remember nothing is perfect. Check your lines for transverse nicks in the outer sheathing of the Q-Power line. If you see wear and tear, cut the last foot or two and tie a new loop and you are good to go. Make sure your lines are tuned before you go out. The knots are described at: http://www.iland.net/~jbritton/figure8.htm and http://members.aol.com/goodheavens/overhand.html

Problem: How do I retrofit my kite with "Kook-Proof" connectors? Solution: Kook-Proof or Polar Connectors are easy to make and could save your hide by eliminating the chance of hooking up your lines wrong. Newer kites generally have these connectors but there are thousands of kites that still have the old style of connections. Here is what you do. Cut eight sections of 3/16 in. diameter braided spectra line (Amsteel or equivalent) twice the length of the pigtails that are on your kite plus 1 inch additional for each knot in the pigtail. For most kites this should give you four sections of lines in two lengths. Tie the ends together of each of the four shorter lines with overhand knots forming large loops. Tie an overhand loop knot in the other four lines creating a loop at the end of the line. Then tie overhand knots at intervals above that are similar to the ones used on your kite pigtails. Discoloring or taping of four of the connectors to tell right from left is a good idea. Replace the original pigtails with your new Amsteel Kook-Proof connectors. Attach the other four Kook-Proof connectors to your four kite lines. Be sure to only detach the connectors and not the kite lines during normal use.

The Kiteboarder assumes no liability for any modifications to your gear. Use these tips at your own risk. Maintenance The best resource for schools, retailers, KITE PAGES and associations in the U.S. and Caribbean.

California Quick Bladder Fixes Action Watersports ...... (318) 827-2233 Board Sports...... (415) 929-SURF By Casey Houtz – AIRTIME KITE CaliKites ...... (619) 522-9575 Captain Kirk’s ...... (310) 833-3397 Helm Sports ...... (650) 344-2711 Kite Country ...... (619) 226-4421 Kiterboarders have a love hate relationship with bladders. We take them for granted Kite Wave ...... (213) 344-6034 until we are watching a session blow by with a limp kite in our hands and no clue on Kitenow, Inc. (ad on p.13) ...... (650) 248-6660 Felix has bladder issues. Kites Etc ...... (562) 592-5483 Kitesurfari (ad on p.25) ...... (714) 378-0468 Photo Michelle Zuniga how to fix it. Here are a few quick fixes that might help get you on the water. KiteWindSurf...... (510) 522-WIND Lake Tahoe Kiteboarding...... (877) 769-5483 Live2Kite...... (415) 722-7884 Great Lakes Kiteboarding ...... (586) 822-6511 Cleanline Surf ...... (888) 546-6176 Malibu Kitesurfing ...... (310) 430-KITE Grand Bay Kite Co...... 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The following two fixes may be just what Vela...... (800) 223-5443 Get Air...... (228) 209-1204 blow out West Coast Kiteboarding ...... (619) 200-9519 High Tide Surf Shop ...... (912) 786-6556 it takes to get you back on the water. North Carolina Windsport ...... (619) 488-4642 Savannah Sails and Rails ...... (912) 232-7201 Windsurf Diablo...... (510) 778-6350 Hawaii Blowing in the Wind ...... (910) 763-1730 Xdream Sportz ...... (760) 944-9247 Hatteras Island Sail Shop ...... (252) 987-2292 Xstreamline Sports ...... (310) 518-1972 Action Sports Maui ...... (808) 871-5857 Kiteboarding Hatteras (ad on p.76) ...... (252) 995-5000 What to do when the end of your bladder Xtreme Big Air...... (805) 773-9200 Aloha Kiteboarding Academy...... (808) 637-5483 Kites Unlimited ...... (252) 247-7011 Caveman Kitesurfing ...... (808) 389-4004 2 Colorado Kitty Hawk Kiteboarding Centers ...... (877) FLY-THIS blows out. sock Extreme Sports Maui...... (808) 871-7954 Real Kiteboarding (ad on p.23) ...... (866) REAL-KITE 1 Fuze Kiteboarding ...... (303) 683-5033 Hawaiian Island Surf and Sport ...... (808) 871-4981 Ride Hatteras ...... (252) 995-6755 As a rule of thumb, bladders must go all the way to the tips of the sleeve or you will Kitesnowboarder.com...... (303) 683-5033 Hawaiian Watersports...... (808) 262-KITE have problems. For a quick fix, you can tie a knot in the end of the bladder, reinflate and PKS...... (970)-376.3159 Kailua Sailboards ...... (808) 262-2555 Nevada Kiteboard Center (ad on p.76) ...... (808) 276-2667 WindPower Sports...... (702) 220-4340 go. This only works if the bladder is still long enough to go to the end of the sleeve. If Connecticut Kiteboard Maui ...... (808) 870-2554 it’s too short, chances are it will blow out again. Tri State Kites ...... (800) 510-0865 Kiteboarding.com ...... (866) 488-5483 New Jersey Kitesurf Maui...... (808) 873-0015 Brave New World ...... (732) 899-8220 Here’s the McGyver Fix for short bladder repairs. Florida Maui Kiteboarding Lessons ...... (808) 242-8015 Extreme Windsurfing...... (610) 807-9493 Naish Hawaii Ltd. Shop ...... (808) 262-6068 New Wind ...... (541) 387-2440 7 Kiteboarding...... (305) 654-4055 Island Surf and Sail...... (609) 494-5553 As the Wind Blows ...... (850) 982-9463 Reinhard Elischka ...... (808) 877-6226 Pacific Wave ...... (503) 861-0866 Photos and illustrations courtesy of Airtime Kite New York Storm Warning ...... (800) 492-6309 Big Kite Miami ...... (305) 303- 4107 Iowa Butter Kiteboarding ...... (321) 303.4099 Wind Guide ...... (541) 490-4401 Quick Fix #1 Curtis Sport Connection...... (716) 627-2247 Delray Beach Watersports Rental ...... (561) 279-0008 Seatasea...... (319) 743-7922 Kitewise ...... (646) 734-3027 Puerto Rico Always make sure you support the bladder end internally. You can use almost anything East Coast Kiteboarding ...... (954) 295-5778 Illinois Main Beach Surf & Sports...... (631) 537-2716 Extreme Kites (ad on p.75) ...... (904) 461-9415 Kitesurfing Puerto Rico ...... (787) 728-8716 to do this when the bladder is too short — women«s nylons, gym socks, or supermar- Myers ...... (716) 751-6511 Extreme Sports ...... (321) 779-4228 Real Kiteboarding PR ...... (866) REAL-KITE Chicago Kiteboarder ...... (312) 804-5482 New Skool...... (516) 563-8330 ket plastic bags. Florida Kiting...... (561) 373-4445 Northwind Sports ...... (401) 254-4295 Bonus Bladder Tips: Windward Sports...... (773) 472-6868 Windsurfing Hamptons ...... (516) 283-9463 Tie a knot just inside the damage leaving enough tail past the knot to tie a second knot. Ft. Lauderdale Kitesurfing Co...... (954) 410-5419 South Carolina Hydrotherapy...... (850) 249-9463 Massachusetts Oregon Cut a hole in the end of whatever you plan to use as a sock (small so that the knot can- Island Style Wind & Watersports ...... (941) 954-1009 Cape Cod Kite School ...... (508) 364-6162 Half Moon Outfitter ...... (843) 881-9472 Island Surf and Sail FL ...... (954) 927-7002 2nd Wind Sports ...... (541) 386-4464 Dr. Gravity’s Kite Shop ...... (508) 430-0437 Texas not pass through). Slide the sock over the end and pull the end of the bladder out of the Kite Surf the Earth...... (888) 819-5483 Air-time...... (541) 387-3910 Powerline Sports...... (978) 388-8974 Big Air Windsurfing ...... (541) 348-2213 hole you cut. Pull the bladder so that the knot is snug against the inside of the sock and Kite World ...... (321) 725-8336 Air Padre Kiteboarding ...... (956) 299-WIND Skyhigh Kiteboarding School...... (508) 259-2728 Big Winds ...... (888) 509-4210 then tie a second knot as close to the sock as possible to hold it in place. KiteMare ...... (877) 829-0015 Cline Street Sailboards ...... (512) 937-5000 Too many valves? KitesurfUSA...... (954) 816-0944 Maryland Brian’s Windsurfing/Kitesurfing ...... (541) 386-1423 Miami Kiteboarding Inc...... (305) 345-9974 You can now install the bladder and although it will come up short, it won’t blow out. If you have a bladder with the dual valve option and you want it as a back up, H2AIR Productions...... (301) 802-0295 Sandy Point Progressive Sports...... (386) 756-7564 Kite Loft ...... (410) 289-7855 You’ll lose some performance but it will at least get you on the water until you can get it’s best not to remove the second valves. Activate the second valve, put the plug Sea & Sky Sports ...... (850) 598-3735 a new bladder. in, and then invert it like you did with your beach toys. You can install the blad- Waterplay ...... (800) 841-1225 Michigan Watersports West ...... (888) 401-5080 der like normal and the inverted valve sits flush inside the sewn sleeve. Broneah Kiteboarding ...... (248) 227-0670 Xrated Kiteboarding...... (954) 647-7228 How a bigger bladder can save your session. Not enough valves? As long as the bladder is larger than the sleeve (length and diameter), you can use it as If you have too many holes in the leading edge or strut and not enough valves to a replacement. Here’s what you do when they’re way too long. fill them, you need to close them off. Put some repair tape both inside and out- side of the sleeve, closing off the hole. Install the bladder like normal and make sure that your patch job can take the pressure. If it can’t, make sure it will or Quick Fix #2 your repair will be all for nothing. Invert the ends of the bladder back inside themselves. Imagine that you are wearing a long sleeve shirt and you grab the cuff and invert the sleeve back inside itself as you Reinforcing bad designs pull your arm out. Do the same thing with the bladder ends. You can use a batten or Some kites are just poorly designed and have bladders that continually pop, usu- broom stick with a smooth end to invert the bladder end. ally at the ends or at the elbows of wrap around style leading edges. I find it eas- iest to pull out the bladder ends and put on Dacron repair tape before I ever have Pull the bladder into the sleeve by tying off to the new end of your bladder using the trouble. Clean the bladder with alcohol, cut strips of Dacron tape and overlay lark’s head at the end of your kite lines. I’ve taken as much as 6 feet out of each side. them on the end of the bladder. I recommend reinforcing the last 8 inches or so.

Time Saving Tips Back Up/Travel Kit Always carry a leading edge bladder that will fit your largest kite and a strut 1. Don’t remove the entire bladder. Simply pull the end you need to fix out the end of the sleeve. bladder that will fit the center strut on your largest kite. With these two bladders 2. Lightly cover the bladder with baby powder before you tie the knot. This will increase the you’ll be able to fix any bladder in your quiver. chances that you’ll be able to get the knot out if you think you can fix it with a patch or iron.

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Texas - continued Dare2Fly, Dom Rep ...... (809) 571-0282 Florida Kitesurfing Association TBKSA - Tampa Bay Kitesurfing Association Kite Park, Dom Rep...... (809) 571-9748 www.groups.yahoo.com/group/FKSA www.tbksa.org Corpus Christi Kitesurfing Inc...... (361) 960-4359 Pura Vida, Dom Rep ...... (809) 862-0485 Kitemare ...... (727) 741-5483 NE Kiters Association TIKA - Tybee Island GA Mongani Sky Pirates ...... (361) 992-9623 Kite Antigua, Antigua...... (268) 727-3983 www.neka.us www.groups.yahoo.com/group/tikakiteboarding Pro Kitesurf ...... (361) 883-1473 Sky Riders, St Lucia ...... (758) 454-3418 Columbia Gorge Kiteboarding Instructor Certifications S. Padre Island Kiteboarding ...... (956) 245-8343 Tornado Kite & Surf, St Lucia ...... (758) 486-0545 www.groups.yahoo.com/group/CCKA S. Padre Kiteboarding ...... (956) 761-1434 Professional Air Sports Association (PASA) Windsurfing Sports ...... (713) 291-9199 Kite St. Croix, St Croix...... (340) 773-9890 Central Texas Kiteboarding Association www.pasakiteboarding.org Zero Gravity Kiteboarding ...... (361) 949-0266 www.centexkiteboarding.com International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) Kitesurfing Chicago www.ikorg.com www.groups.yahoo.com/group/kitesurf-chicago Real Kiteboarding Lakes Bay Rec. Association www.realkiteboarding.com www.groups.yahoo.com/group/lakesbay Kiteboarding International Training Evaluation System MAKA- MidAtlantic Kitesurfing Association www.kiteboardcenter.com www.groups.yahoo.com/group/M-A-K-A Travel Companies Midwest Kiteboarding Assoc. Caribbean Winds...... (866) 787-9463 www.midwestkiteboarding.com Ozone Travel...... (888) 824-6359 RMKA, Rocky Mountain Kiteboard Association If you are not listed, please send us your information for www.TocoSports.com the next issue. www.groups.yahoo.com/group/rmka

Utah Cloud 9 Soaring Ctr...... (801) 576-6460 Virginia Southeast Expeditions (ad on p.25)...... (877) 943-8548 Washington Seattle Kiteboarding Center...... (206) 779-3272 “World Cup Kiteboarding on a World Cup Beach” Urban Surf...... (206) 545-9463 Email: [email protected] Wisconsin Web: www.caracolkiteboarding.com (809) 571-0680 Coontail Watersports ...... (715) 385-0250 Cabarete, Dominican Republic ...... Kite-Riders ...... (608) 273-1817 Southport Rigging Company ...... (262) 652-5434 The Board Shop ...... (262) 248-1703 Associations Carribean United States Kitesurfing Assoc. Kitexcite, Dom Rep (ad on p.31) ...... (809) 571-9509 www.maui.net/~hotwind/uska.html Hawaii Kiteboarding Association www.hawaiikiteboardingassociation.org California Kiteboarding Assoc. www.calkite.org Sherman Island Kiteboarding Assoc www.calkite.org/siko.htm San Francisco Kiteboarding Assoc. Best equipped Center in the Caribbean! www.sfkitesurfing.com • Rescue/Training Boat Southern California Kiteboarding Assoc. • Radio Helmets www.scka.org • 50% off lessons w/new gear San Diego Kiteboarding Assoc. Email: [email protected] Web: www.kitexcite.com www.sdka.org Cabarete, Dominican Republic...... (809) 571-9509 Central Coast (CA) Kiteboarding Assoc. www.groups.yahoo.com/group/CCKA Caracol Kiteboarding Center, Dom Rep ...... (809) 571-0680 Seattle Kitesurfing Association ProKite, Dom Rep ...... (809) 571-0880 www.seattlekitesurfing.org/index.htm

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