R35.00 (incl VAT) OTher countries R30.70 issue 31_ jul/aug 2010
Serious Racing For Fun
tips to beat your mates Get paid to kite the world
Tuva shares her story SAKT
new SA Champs are crowned
Young Guns
young riders future stars
July | august 2010
Joris Lugtigheid
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06 Ed’s letter 08 gallery The best of summer
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20 serious racing
4 fun Tips to beat your mate 26 young guns South Africa’s future stars 42 Freerider Living the dream and getting paid to do it 50 morocco Travelling is an experience session
58 technique
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56 SUP A Winter morning
60 INDUSTRY NEWS & new products All the happenings in the industry
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eds letter
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he beginning of June saw the nation pull together to put the final touches on what promises to be the largest sporting event ever
held on African soil. As they scrambled to lay tar, connect train tracks, finish stadiums and lay grass for the deadline of day one of the SWC, I too, have had a similar feeling, scrambling to find my feet, gather information, content and pictures to put together my first issue of GUST. Serendipitously, I’ve been working to that same deadline. Driving into town and seeing these huge countdown clocks, or listening to the radio and hearing “Ten days to go, 9 days to go etc.”, took on additorial meaning for me as they served as reminders for my deadline to deliver my first GUST issue to the printers. It’s a nervous but exciting feeling. To feel this along with the nation coming together, flying flags off their cars, and getting so excited you can literally feel the vibrations in the air is quite a unique welcoming experience. I am extremely excited about my new position at GUST. I feel that my vast involvement and experience in the industry will contribute a lot to the magazine. I am going to be making some changes to the GUST as we know it, especially from a creative design point of view. I am sure most of you will see the change as a move in the right direction. Our website is also going through some exciting changes, so be sure to check in soon. It’s the middle of winter and kiting has taken a back seat for most of us. There are many that are taking to the water on an SUP or the like. Regardless of what we are doing and whether we like soccer or not, we have embarked on an exciting mid-winter nationwide experience. See you on the water or in the fan parks! Enjoy my first issue… Greg Thijsse Share your thoughts – greg@gustmagazine.com
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front lines A collection of photos that captivates the best of summer… Keep these pages open on the coffee table to feed your yearning for warm windy days, and remember, we’ve already passed the winter solstice…
Joris Lugtigheid Photo: Jalou Langeree-African sunset
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Rider: Kurt Schmelzer Photo: Greg Betts / Ocean Image
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Rider: Kevin Langeree-Brandvlei sunset Photo: Joris Lugtigheid
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Photo: Joris Lugtigheid [80’s or 2000’s? It doesn’t really matter…this photo gives me goose bumps. The feeling of being on the road with your mates is pretty unbeatable…a feeling that is universal and will never change.]
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Rider: Bertrand Fleury – mega loop, Maui, Hawaii Photo: Tracy Kraft
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Rider: Jason Wright Photo: Ryan Joffe
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PUBLISHER Janet Lightbody j l@gustmagazine.com 082 469 6303
Editor Greg Thijsse greg@gustmagazine.com
ART DIRECTOR Cristal Smith
copy editor Debbie New
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS Tuva Jansen, Ivan Van Vuuren, Craig Kolesky, Peter Peterson and Barend Buys
PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTRIBUTIONS Senior photographer: Craig Kolesky/SanDisk Andre Myberg, Naish, www.coreban.com, Greg Betts (ocean image), Joris Lugtigheid (Oneill), Tracy Kraft, Roy Joffe, Dirk Hanel, Juanita Welgemoed, Greg Thijsse, Gromet, Bertrand Fleury
PRINT AND REPRO CTP Book Printers
DISTRIBUTION GUST Magazine Distribution to retail stores - RNA Sell GUST magazine in your store. Contact greg@gustmagazine.com for more information
SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@gustmagazine.com
CONTRIBUTIONS GUST welcomes photographic and editorial contributions either by email or post email: greg@gustmagazine.com or post to: GUST MAGAZINE P.O. BOX 15097 VLAEBERG 8018 or fax to: 086 622 5838 We cannot be held responsable for unsolicited contributions, GUST will retain reprint rights,contributors will retain all other rights for resale and republication. COPYRIGHT All rights reserved . No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrival system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recorded or otherwise, without prior permission.
WWW.GUSTMAGAZINE.COM join our facebook group for real time updates COVER IMAGE: Rider: Cameron Dietritch Image: Courtesy of Cabrinha
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Serious racing
Juanita Welgemoed
Cape Town has experienced an explosion in course racing events this past season.
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features Words: Peter Petersen Sponsors: Airush, Geraghty surfboards, 4WFS, Quiksilver, Dakine and Naish SUP’s
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he reason is simple: It’s fun to do and relatively easy to organise. It’s also not nearly as time consuming as running a freestyle event, and all riders are active with very little waiting around. So what does it take to have serious fun? My answer is that it depends on your temperament. You can take part in the Twin-tip division and use your normal kit, or you can go all out and get a course racing board and start tweaking your equipment. I’ve been taking part in virtually all the races that have been on offer and I’m learning every time. The following is a
recollection of tips and experiences I have gathered over time which can help you beat your mates. These tips relate to technique, tactics and knowledge of the rules. I have not gone into the various equipment choices as the focus here is on helping you to improve your racing with the equipment you currently have. First off, learn the rules! They
are extremely important. You should read through the applicable rulebook, freely available online, and as a minimum, understand the basic rules of right of way and starting procedures.
So how do you prepare for a race? I try to arrive as early as possible,
as this gives me a chance to get a feel of the wind and how the course is laid out. If we’re racing at Seli1, I normally take a wind-reading before the race – this helps me pick the right kite and board. A glance at the mountain can also tell you a lot about the wind. If the cloud is sitting high when you arrive and starts sucking down while you are rigging up, chances are the wind will increase in strength. I always make sure I get a visual of the buoys from land as the actual layout is rarely accurately portrayed on the course-
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Oscar Armstrong on a downwind leg
Stefan Smith listens attentively at the skippers meeting
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Racing attracts everyone
Race Director Olaf Van Tol briefs the fleet
Sjoukje Bredenkamp – the fastest lady on earth
Juanita Welgemoed
“Races are won and lost at the skippers meeting already because a lack of information can cause you to sail the wrong course.”
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Two competitors chase each other to the bottom mark
drawing. When you’ve rigged up your kite, roll up your lines so they can’t get tangled. You MUST always attend the skippers meeting and be there on time. Often little pieces of information that can make or break your race are discussed, such as, a change in course or finishing procedure etc. Races are won and lost at the skippers meeting already because a lack of information can cause you to sail the wrong course. Often you can use this information to plan your tactics. Another thing to remember is to calibrate your watch with that of the race director – this way you know when to expect the first signal. You should always get on the water before the start with ample time to come back in and change equipment if you have to. I always check the favorable side of the start line before the start. I do this by pointing as high as I can on both tacks to see what my angles are. This gives me a good indication as to which end of the start line has the advantage. Typically the best end of the line is the one that has the shortest distance to the first buoy, or allows you to get to the first buoy with the least amount of tacks.
Kiting is very fast, tacking is not, and so as a rule of thumb you want to minimize the amount of tacks you make. You also have to take into account that guys on starboard tack (see sidebar on overleaf) have priority and if you’re unable to sneak ahead of them on port tack, then you will have to give way.
forward position at all times). Give space to guys that are getting boxed between you and the start buoy (or ship) – the overlap rule comes into play here (see sidebar on overleaf). Timing the start to perfection comes with practice – remember, only one rider can get the perfect start. If you didn’t get it, rather make sure you get off safely and try to make it up on the course.
The start:
Firstly, make sure that your watch is in sync with the starting procedure. The best way to do this is to stay near the horn and flags around the time that the race officer will go into sequence. Start your watch when the red flag goes up (this signals 5 minutes until the start). Keep checking the 4 and 1 minute signals and flags to make sure you are still on the correct time with the race director. Now that you know how much time is left before the start and you have decided which end you are going to start on: position yourself so you that can approach the start line slowly, at the same pace as the guys around you. Trying to weave through a bunch of kites going full tilt whilst they are standing still is recipe for disaster. Always make sure you look around before you move your kite back (rather keep it in a
It’s sometimes best to play it a little safe and try to stay away from too much bunching, as the risk of a tangle is high when riders are jostling for a starting position. Having said that, the level at the front doesn’t really allow for playing it safe so a good start is a must. Riding upwind:
Once you’re off on the upwind leg you have two things to focus on: riding the board right and checking the race situation. The race situation is about where the other riders are and how close you are to making your lay line. Working out your lay line can make or break your race so try and get used to how high you can point in relation to the tack you are on (this takes practice and time). A good trick is to see how your competitors are pointing – if they can make the mark, you probably can too.
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Dirk Hanel
back features lines Do not look for competitors and lay lines for more than a brief second at a time, it’s much more important that you keep your speed and angle up. Riding the board effectively is all about putting the power down because power is nothing without control and you want to ride your board as hard as you can without it ever jumping out of water and losing grip. You want to transfer the pull from the kite through your feet to the fins of the board at all times. This can be easier on some days depending on wind quality and chop. If you are overpowered it becomes really difficult. Ideally you should be able to deal with gusts by pushing the kite forward. This is done by edging your board harder through the gusts rather than sheeting out the kite. (Some kites do this better than others). Trimming your kite is purely to keep your body in the right position whilst you constantly handle the power using your legs and feet. All the top guys in the world use a seat harness, but I’m still old-school and haven’t gotten used to the lower hook position yet! Twisting the angle of my back foot forward seems to give me a little more feel and 024
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control, but it does put some strain on the knee, so be wary if you suffer from kneemonia! Try to work on these aspects of your riding as they will improve your speed and upwind angle. Your kite should be flown relatively low – never higher than 45 degrees. Your board should be ridden as flat as possible because the more you can use your fins, the higher you will point and the faster you will go. This can be strenuous at times especially if you are not used to riding course boards, but practice makes master.
up. Some guys, like Greg and Luke are very fast downwind and will probably catch you, but your job is two-fold: stay upright and ahead of the competitors behind you, whilst putting as much pressure as possible on the riders in front of you. The more they feel you breathing down their necks the more likely they are to make a mistake under pressure. Riding Downwind:
Races are often times won on the upwind leg as the first guy around the top mark gets a gap which can be difficult to close.
If it’s really windy then the direct line from buoy to buoy will be the fastest. If it’s a little lighter then you may have to sail angles to keep pull in the kite. I always weave my kite from side to side as this produces more power and allows me to better feel the power and adjust my line accordingly. I don’t advocate looping the kite. When I steer the kite from side to side, I usually steer the board a little in the same direction as the kite. When I pull the kite back I try to get the board pointed downwind as much as possible. This means I’m zigzagging down the run at maximum speed without stalling the kite. The aim is to get to the downwind buoy in the straightest line possible. Practicing this will make you much more confident in going downwind on race-day.
That doesn’t mean that you have to give
If there is swell then the flats between the
Rounding buoys is pretty simple, but be wary of the anchor line and current which can catch you out. A good plan is to stay in your straps until you’ve rounded safely. Anchor lines always lie upwind of the buoys. The current can suck you into the buoy or anchor lines if you haven’t compensated for it in advance by giving yourself enough space.
Lay line: The imaginary line you draw to align yourself with a buoy. Your board has a max angle to the wind, and you need to ensure that – in relation to the buoy – you are high enough on the course to make it around, without having to make additional tacks. Overlap: When approaching a buoy, the rider on the outside has to give room to the rider on the inside. (If they are overlapping). If a rider on the outside is ahead of rider on inside, he is entitled to close the door provided they are on the same tack. The fleet at the Resolution down wind dash skippers meeting
broken waves will be faster than staying out in the chop, but you have to be confident that you can clear the waves that are breaking, and keep scanning for gaps in the whitewater without getting nailed.
indonesia (bertrand fleury)
Tactics:
Tactics can play a big role in lighter winds as getting the right lifts upwind, or more wind strength, can gain positions. If you are behind, and the rider(s) in front of you are going the same speed or faster, you only have one option for catching them: Choose the opposite side of the course and pray for a wind shift in your favour. If you know there is a good wind shift on the opposite side of the course, you should go for it. But remember you typically also have guys chasing from behind so you might want to play it safe and stay on same side of the course to cover them. This means you tack when they do, if they go inside, you follow. This way, any favourable wind shift will favour you as well. A few days with big swell can create quite a bit of current close to shore and you must use this to your advantage. Stay away from the shore if your upwind leg is into the current, and go to the inside if current helps pull you upwind.
In Langebaan wind shifts and currents caused by tides are a major factor to take into consideration. If you are in a series of races and gunning for an overall placing ahead of your mates, it pays to study the results so you know who you need to stay ahead of. Remember the discard rule and calculate ahead to forecast likely scenarios. As I’m writing this I’m in a ding-dong with Olaf Marting. Greg is virtually impossible to catch as he has to come 4th, or worse twice (which is unlikely), and no one is within striking distance of my points position. So my task is simple: keep Olaf behind me. It doesn’t really matter if other riders beat me (as long it’s not too many) so I need to focus on covering Olaf more than the other riders.
Pete’s strong wind weapon
Fin set up is crucial
Course racing is a lot of fun and the more you learn the more you will enjoy it. There is no substitute for practicing and board speed will get you far. All of the above are examples of some of the things that go into kiteboard course racing. I hope some of the tips will improve your riding and I look forward to seeing you on race days.
Pete with his machines
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Starboard vs. Port tack: Riders with right-hand forward on the bar are on starboard tack and have right of way over riders on port tack.
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couple of years ago you heard very little about fresh young blood coming into our sport. This has changed drastically in the past few years and it’s quite common to hear of new youngsters popping up here, there and everywhere. This is exactly what our sport needs as ultimately these guys are the future of kiteboarding. They will each grow up and bring something to our industry, whether it be growing the sport, pushing the level of riding or becoming a pro rider and representing our country. These guys are the future. When I was their age and travelling around the country competing, I was the only young rider to be seen. You would find me giving the bullies a run for their money during the day and sleeping on pool tables or bar chairs at night as I waited for them to finish their 30th shot of tequila and take me home. A lot has changed since then. I was at the SAKT prize giving recently and it was so good to see a healthy pack of 25 lighties. This number is now steadily increasing and shows promising signs for the future of our sport. I’ve identified 7 key riders from our young-gun pack that are, in my opinion, the future stars of our country… – Greg
*These young guns are current athletes under the age of 18. Riders like Kurt Schmelzer, Alan Steele and alike are of course still some of the top riders in our country.
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features Name: Oswald Smith Age:14 Sponsors: Naish & Derevko Hobbies: Video editing and listening to music Favourite music: Goldfish, Seed & Dubstep Years kiting: 2.5 years How did you get into kiting? I grew up in a water sports family, both my parents were windsurfers. When my Dad started kiting I saw how great it looked and that’s when I decided to start kiting. Are you a cool guy at school because you kite?
Ja I guess so? When kids hear that I kite they really think its cool and when I get off school to go train they think its the ultimate sport. Career highlights: SAKT Course Racing Champion, 3rd Overall and 2nd in the Wave Riding Discipline on the S.A.K.T 2009/2010. I’m also the first junior and 4th overall in the Wednesday Night Glider Series. Cable Skiing – 2nd in the U16 division in the 2010 SA Nationals. Where do you see your kiting in the next few years? I want to take it as far as possible and my goal is to
compete on the PKRA world tour. Favourite place to ride? Muizenberg and Strand for
freestyle. Between Sunset Beach and Haakgat for waveriding. What do you do when the wind doesn’t blow? I go
SUP or go to the Cable park. What moves are you working on? I‘m working on my
double s-bend handle pass and trying to wax my back mobe. Waves, race or freestyle? Everything If you could be any age right now, what would it be?
Dream move? kiteloop slim 7 Strapless or Strapped? I enjoy both, strapless for onshore conditions otherwise strapped Shout Outs: AAAAArrghh 028
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Andre Myburgh
I would like to be 18 so I could drive myself to wherever the wind blows. Then I’d also be finished school so I can kite more.
features I must admit the first time I ever heard talk about new young talent was when I heard the name Oswald Smith. As time went on I started to hear the name more and more. I didn’t really take much notice of him as he lived in a different area code and after all he was probably just a lighty getting into the sport… (no big deal right?). However from the moment I saw Oswald ride I knew this was not just talk. He has shown that he has a well rounded feeling for all disciplines of the sport and could probably excel in any one he chooses to focus on. He is backed by the support of his family and Dad (Stefan) who spends virtually every opportunity with his son in getting him on the water. He definitely has what it takes; it’s a matter of time before this young gun explodes…
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back features lines Oscar is our youngest young-gun. I also think he’s the most confident. I haven’t met someone of his age that has such a strong nature and is not afraid to be who he is. He is modest, easy-going, and always happy. He hasn’t been riding long but is already showing signs of a rising star. Give him some more time on the water and I think he is going to start rocking the local scene with style.
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features Name: Oscar Armstrong Age: 12 Sponsors: Naish and Friday Island Resort Langebaan Hobbies: Mountain biking, Surfing, Skating and Cable Skiing Favourite music: Joe Jackson, Manu Chao, Locnville Years riding: 2.5 How did you get into kiting? I was on holiday with friends in Durban and decided to do a course at La Mercy lagoon. Are you a cool guy at school because you kite?
Completely, absolutely, 100%, totally cool!!! Do you use kiting as a pick up line for chicks? Not really, the chicks just flock naturally, total magnet! Ha Ha Ha! Career highlights: I was the youngest oke to finish the Downwind Dash in 2009. I also finished 3rd in the SAKT men’s course racing division. (Not too shabby hey!) Where do you see you kiting in the next few years? World tour and travelling flat out. What moves are you working on? Blind judge and
s-mobe. Communism or capitalism? Neither. We should all just be happy, have a job and a good lifestyle. Dream move? Double handle pass kiteloop to blind. Do you bunk school to go kite? Absolutely! Shout Outs: Keep off the beers.
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Name: Jandre Fraser Age: 18 Sponsors: Cabrinha (SA) & Kustom Hobbies: Bodyboarding, Surfing, Gaming & Music Favourite music: Dubstep, Psytrance, Reggae, Rock,
Techno, Drum and bass, and many more… Years Riding: 5 How did you get into kiting? The sport really grabbed my attention when I was about 13. I watched the other guys kiting and decided to make it my mission to get into the sport. I started landboarding first with a power kite because I couldn’t afford a proper kite. I then started hanging around the Cabrinha store where I ended up working my gear off. Are you a cool guy at school because you kite?
I’m not sure... I think you’re a cool guy at school if you watch High School Musical or something like that... most people who hear about kiteboarding seem to have an interest for it. Career highlights: 1st place in the big air best trick at the Doodles Hunters Extreme competition. (I beat the current world champ, Kevin Langeree!). 1st place in the Cape Dash. If you could be any age right now, what would it be? Im fine with my age, but if I had to choose I would be prehistoric. Why? That way I could be a monkey that is self-
sufficient and I wouldn’t have to be dependant on money. iphone or blackberry? iphone Communism or capitalism? I make no pretences. I dislike communism. It’s a noble concept, but it is one that can’t work without a radical change in the human psyche. I’m not sure I’d want to live in a world where people were effectively lobotomised. Capitalism separates everyone further because you get people that are in competition with one another to work hard and get to the top. This leads people into selfish deeds. The current monetary system which is based on scarcity, profit and competing brands is just as bad. People need to work together to solve our problems. Playstation or Xbox? Playstation.
CRAIG KOLESKY (SANDISK/NIKON)
What are you plans for the next year? Travel and follow my dream to kite, or do something related to IT.
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features Jandre is a talented rider. He is definitely the most underrated young gun out there. You don’t often see him around, but when he surfaces he will impress anyone with his array of top quality moves performed with style and confidence. He hasn’t been on the competition scene much, but if he chooses to follow the circuit next year he’ll definitely be a top contender. It will be interesting to see what comes of Jandre’s kiting after school. One thing is for sure…watch out for this kid!
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features Megan is the queen of the young-guns. She is one of the only young girls ripping up the local scene and can be found at any event or any location where the conditions are firing. Like many of the young-guns she has had strong support from her father, Roy. It is this support, along with all the boys at Best and now Naish, that has been the driving force behind Meghan’s success. She started kiting at the young age of 13 and now just 2 years later has already achieved the title of the female South African Champion. She may not know it but all eyes are focused on her as our future female star. If she continues to keep focused on kiting this will come naturally‌
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features Name: Meghan Jansen van Rensburg Age: 15 Sponsors: Naish and Kustom footwear Hobbies: Athletics and surfing Favourite Music: Mirah, Pendulum and Crystal Castles Years riding: Almost 2 How did you get into kiting? Got only my dad to blame. Were you intimidated? In the beginning… no not really. I was pretty relaxed about it until I tried a kite that was too big for me. It took me up and knocked me out on the way down, after that I was a little intimidated by the size and power of kites. Which riders do you look to for inspiration? Any
riders out there who can do some insane moves. Do guys think it’s hot that you kite? Nah... I usually only go for kiteboarders and it’s nothing special to them. Career highlights: 1st women overall on the SAKT
2009/2010. Where do you see your kiting in the next few years? I want to finish the SAKT again and then once I finish
school, to go for the world tour. Haven’t been there but want to go? Dubai Did your folks buy your first kite or did you do lots of saving? My daddy bought it for me. What moves are you working on? Handle passes. If you could be any age right now, what would it be? Definitely 18!!! Why? Then I’m independent and no more
school. How much time do you spend on facebook? Maybe 4
times a week? about 30 mins? What do you like most about kiting? There is no
sport out there that can give you the rush or freedom that kiting does. Strapless or Strapped? Strapped, else I would lose
the board. Shout Outs? Girls... we need more of you out on the water!
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features Name: James Busse Age: 17 Sponsors: Cabrinha (South Africa) Hobbies: SUPing & flying planes Favourite Music: Greenday, Rise Against & Red Hot Chilli
Peppers Years Riding: 2 and a bit How did you get into kiting? My brother got some equipment and kiteboarding movies from Cash Crusaders. It didn’t take long for me to join in on the fun. Which riders do you look to for inspiration? I try to learn as much as I can from the top riders on the PKRA, but the fastest way I learn is from riding with friends and good local riders. Where do you see your kiting in the next few years? Wow, it would be great to go on a world tour if I had
the chance. I will see how my riding level progresses over the next few years. It sounds like an awesome experience. What do you do when the wind doesn’t blow? Surf
or fly radio control planes. Haven’t been there but want to go? Maui, Hawaii -
I’ve got to get there in my lifetime. What moves are you working on? Backroll-kiteloop 3 If you could be any age right now, what would it be? 18 Why? I would be able to drive to the beach instead
Communism or capitalism? Capitalism: “GET RICH OR
DIE TRYIN!” Dream move: Front mobe to blind or a mobe7. What are your plans for the next year? I’m gonna kite as hard as I can, learn many new tricks, and polish up all of my old one’s. Shout Outs: Just a big thanks to Taro for running the SAKT.
It’s been awesome!
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CRAIG KOLESKY /SanDisk/Nikon
of having to hitch hike… it can be real boring when all the friendly German’s have left after summer.
features I met James a little after his older brother Mark got into kiteboaridng. There were so many young-guns emerging at the time that I couldn’t really keep up to date and hang out with all of them. It took a while before I actually got to know James, but from the start I knew there was something very different about him. He is humble, hungry to improve and so motivated to kite its unreal. James has really excelled in the last year and I feel he will be a strong force to reckon with in the near future. He has big dreams and all the tools to take his kiting to the next level‌
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Andre Myburgh
Tyler is the latest addition to the young-guns team. He is also the boyfriend of our very own young-guns queen. Don’t assume his short career reflects his level of riding. His motivation and dedication has resulted in a good progression in his riding. If he keeps this type of performance up he will quickly find himself fighting for those podium finishes. Watch this name‌
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features Name: Tyler Ryan Age: 15 Sponsors: Slingshot and Glider Eyewear Hobbies: Surfing Favourite Music: Pendulum, Datsik and Incubus. Years riding: 1 year and 6 months How did you get into kiting? Every year our family goes on holiday to Friday Island in Langebaan. Once a family friend of ours (Mallie Cox) was doing some kiteboarding there. It looked like a huge amount of fun, so I started to fly a trainer kite on the beach and a year later with the help of Ruari Ingram and some family friends, progressed to the board. (Thanks Peter Thomas and Alan Daley) I never looked back! Which riders do you look to for inspiration?
Ruben Len10 is definitely my favourite rider, purely because of his crazy style. Greg and Lighty are guys I look up to as well. They have both been on the world tours and live right here in Cape Town. Career highlights: Winning the Monster Energy Myoli Beach Big Air Comp in Knysna. 3rd juniors in the first Wednesday Night Race Series. 7th overall on the SAKT 2009/2010. Favourite place to ride: Big Bay/Kamers and the Friday
Island off shore spot (Langebaan). Did your folks buy your first kite or did you do lots of saving? My Folks bought my first kite…shot guys!
What moves are you working on? Front mobe, kiteloop
3, and a slim chance. I’ve also been spending a lot of time working on my wave riding. If you could be any age right now what would it be? 18 and fresh out of matric. Why? So I could spend
time doing what ever I feel like, and I would have my own transport! Rugby or Soccer? Soccer. Stormers, Bulls or Sharks? Stormers. Dream move? Kiteloop 7 and a megaloop like len10. What are your plans for the next year? To train hard over the off season and a podium finish at next years SAKT. Do you bunk school to go kite? Occasionally. What do you like most about kiting? The freedom,
putting all your stresses to the side and letting go. Shout Outs: Slingshot for all the support, Greg for the
interview, Lighty for putting the tour together, Bob, Shane and Bruce for all the help, and last but not least my Folks.
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Kustom shoes Hobbies: Surfing Favourite music: Jack Johnson, Nangarin, Xavier Rudd Years kiting: 4 years but almost 5 years How did you get into kiting? I was a huge beach bum! I met an instructor called Tim Terken who gave me lessons, from there I met Grant Ross who has supported me ever since. Were you intimidated? A little in the beginning - I was
so small! Which riders do you look to for inspiration? Greg
Thijsse and Aaron hadlow. Are you a cool guy at school because you kite?
Nope, all the surfers and kiters hate me! But I’m also a 1st team surfer so I do get brownie points. Do you use kiting as a pick up line for chicks? Not
yet! Haha when it comes down to it I might! Career highlights: 2009/2010 South African champ! Where do you see your kiting in the next few years? I’m hoping to hit the world tour but I need big
sponsors! If I can secure that then I want to eventually travel and free ride! Like Ruben Lenten. What moves are you working on? A back mobe switch
and a KGB switch. Waves, race or freestyle? I love waves the most but
freestyle plays a big roll in my kiting career. Racing is more of a fun thing for me. If you could be any age right now, what would it be? 19, I would be out of school. Rugby or Soccer? You’re asking the wrong guy, I’m all
water sports. What are your plans for the next year? Hopefully
start doing home school so I can train more and then start to travel! Do you bunk school to go kite? My parents are going to kill
me… but ya I do! There’s nothing like rushing to a friends house asking him if you can have a quick shower to get the salt off your face! Shout Outs: Just a special
thanks to all the guys that have helped me progress to the level I’m at now! Oh and thanks for all the lifts!
ANDRE MYBURGH
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Name: Luke McGillewie Age: 15 Sponsors: Cabrinha (SA), Solrx, Cti, Geraghty shapes &
features What can I say about Luke? Well, he surfaced on the kiteboarding scene at the tender age of 11, and now almost 5 years later is our new South African Overall Champion. Luke has come on in leaps and bounds in the past few years and I think he owes that to his friends and the industry for supporting him along the way. He went from winning the hearts of many with his oversized harness and tiny wetsuit to throwing his weight around as he went through the phases of growth in his life. Now he is at the top of the ranks and probably asking himself where to from here? Well the answer is train train train…the world tour is a dream today but a reality tomorrow… it’s up to you.
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Indonesia (Gromet)
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features free rider |frē ˈrīdər| noun. No set course, goals or rules to abide by. Getting paid to do it… For most of us, travelling
Maui, hawaii (Tracy Kraft)
around the world free riding is the ultimate dream. For Tuva Jansen this is her life. She gives a us taste of the journey she took to get there.
TUVA JANSEN- FREERIDER “It was the summer of 2001 that brought a change to my life forever. I got a new job working in a surf/snowboard shop in Norway. There was this cute guy who also worked at the shop and was very into kiteboarding. I had no idea what kiteboarding was, but it sounded fun. It wasn’t long before he asked me if I wanted to go away for a weekend and do a kiteboarding course, my answer was quite simple…YES! Every winter I used to snowboard a lot and I really enjoyed it, but in the summer I didn’t do too much, until I found kiteboarding. I was totally hooked from the
start. Learning something new, being able to be outdoors, in the water, and kiting with my friends was awesome. Another thing that made me so stoked about it was that the learning curve was so fast. In snowboarding for example it will take you a lot of time (and pain) to be able to do some big jumps. In kiteboarding I was learning all kinds of jumps after a few weeks, and with no real pain. This is definitely one of the reasons why you see so many girls kiting compared to other extreme sports. The first few sessions are always a bit of a struggle, but when it clicks you have so much fun right from the get go. I was 21 years old when I started kiting.
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features I had just started to study marketing at university, but I wasn’t enjoying it. So I used kiting as a perfect excuse to take a break, start traveling, and try get as good as I possibly could. I worked my ass off in a nursery home to save up enough money to get away to a kiteboarding paradise. After many hard earned hours I eventually hopped on a plane to the Dominican Republic (alone). I was super motivated and wanted to be really good at kiting. I had heard some rumors that the Dominican Republic was one of the best places in the world for training. I found myself in the town of Cabarrette, which definitely lived up to its reputation. I have since then been back almost every year. It’s just one of those places that’s got it all, kiting, surfing, partying, fun people, and it is affordable. When I went there for the first time, riders like Lucaiano Gonazles (who were top riders) were doing huge jumps with many rotations. It was riders like him that inspired me and helped me to learn all the top tricks. It was all about being over powered and flying as high as you could. I soon found myself at a top level and exploring the competitive side of the sport. I went to a few KPWT contests but I found that this was not as pretty as it seems from the outside. I ended up spending a lot of money on travelling and not much time kiting. This was because most of the contests were in shitty locations due to sponsors etc. We spent most of our time waiting for the wind or for the next event to happen. It was definitely fun to meet other riders, people in the industry, and of course to party… but I quickly realised that the competition scene was not for me, and that I wanted to do something different. I got my first sponsorship with Takoon in 2003 and they sent me on a few travel trips to do some photo shoots and stories. I knew right from the start that this was what I wanted to do - travel the world, ride in the best conditions, and get paid to do it. My sponsors Takoon and Oxbow are both very supportive of my choice of being a freerider. I think it is a great way of showing people out there what kiting is all about - having fun and riding with your friends.
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Caribbean, Providenciales (bertrand fleury)
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travel days were over! Then we decided to base ourselves in Maui.
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Caribbean, Providenciales ( bertrand fleury)
Maui has always been the capital of kiteboarding. All the best riders were based down at kite beach. This move really influenced my style of riding. At this point in time everyone was trying wake style tricks with the kite low. Gone were the days of high jumps! I got myself some bindings and started to practice the wake style moves. Around this time guys were also experimenting with sliders and kickers. We used to go on trips to Antigua and Venezuela on some big rail missions it
Coche, Venezuela ( Bertrand Fleury)
There is something special about travelling. The feeling of arriving at a new place and not knowing what to expect really excites me. Meeting new people and getting to know different cultures is something that comes naturally whilst searching for a new perfect wave or an epic flat-water lagoon. It can be a bit lonely at times but the rewards of new uncharted territory cannot be beaten. I ended up doing a lot more accompanied travelling after I met my current boyfriend, Bertrand Fleury in 2003. It just so happened that he also travelled the world as a professional kiteboarder. From that point my lonely
was really inspiring. But, like any new sport, evolution happens quickly and before I knew it we were onto the next thing - waves. I was lucky to be based with all the best riders in the world, so I kind of followed their movements, as I knew they were the benchmark. This time the change was different – from the moment I hit the waves I knew I had found my calling. I completely fell head over heels for it. This change brought me back to my traveling roots. Wave riding is all about finding that perfect un-crowded wave that you know is lurking somewhere out
indonesia (bertrand fleury)
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features there. The past 5 years I have been doing exactly that - travelling the world chasing perfect waves. Every year I spend around 3 months in Indonesia. Indonesia is without a doubt one of the best locations in the world for waves. Last year Beutrand and I completed our dream house, which is situated right on a perfect Indonesian point break. I love it there. Indonesia has the nicest people in the world, amazing food, cheap massages ($5 an hour) and it is amazing! and the best waves in the world. Being able to do what you love everyday is life at its best! There are times when you are sitting in the middle of nowhere, waiting for wind or waves to show up. This can get boring and sometimes you wish you where somewhere else. There are also times when you miss your friends and family and you are over travelling with your big board bag and getting hassled with excess luggage. In the end it doesn’t take much thought to realise that you are living a dream life. I love going home for a few weeks to see my friends and family, but after a few days I get wrestless and eager to hit the road again. I can’t wait to book a flight to my next uncharted destination in search of the perfect wave and to continue living my dream…” Tuva shared some words of inspiration for all you girls out there: “To all the girls who want to learn kiteboarding, or are dreaming of becoming professionals: Just go ride, push each other, and have fun with your friends. Don’t be afraid of having your own style and doing your own thing, that’s what will make you stand out. Watch surf, wake, and kite DVDs to get inspiration. You can do it! It is a great way to exercise and have fun at the same time. You do not need to be very strong to be good at kiteboarding, so that is no excuse. It’s all in your head, don’t be afraid, just do it! (P.s. the gear is also so much better and safer these days)” Beutrand and Tuva have started a kite camp in Indonesia for people who want to improve their wave riding. The clinics have been very successful so book early to avoid disappointment. Tuva says that surfing and yoga are also part of the experience. For more information visit www.tuvajansen.com
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features Morocco is a country brimming with scents, contrasts, colour and mystery. All you can do is watch in wonder as these contrasts unfold around you. It has a timeless quality that no longer exists in the modern world, a sense that the past with all its glory and ferocity still lives on. Threading in and out of the present, past and future, Morocco and its people give us a taste of what days gone by may have been like.
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n arrival you are submerged into a culture, a religion and a lifestyle utterly unlike anything you have ever experienced before and taken on a tour of this land of endless surprises, and enduring fascination.
For some, it begins with a glimpse of the cloud-veiled Rif, the first of three giant ranges that slice sideways across the mountain and culminate in the High Atlas, an impressive sight of snow-clad peaks that tower above the city, ravines and valleys. Fertile plains are planted with pomegranate and palm that try desperately to stave off the advance of the desert. Here the air is crisp, the silence almost deafening and the grandeur of this country evident. For some, the country’s main appeal lies in the quality of its beaches. Morocco has always been at a crossroads, the place where the East collides with the West and Africa
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The first reaction of most visitors, to the flood of new experiences, is to draw a long, deep breath‌ the odours of mint and blossom mingling with the acrid smell of the tanners’ yard, the eerie wail of the Muezzin and muleteers, and a daily rhythm that seems barely to have changed since the coming of Islam.
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Reben stretching his ankle to the limits.
All images and words by: Craig Kolesky
meets Europe across the narrow straits of Gibraltar. Its where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic giving Morocco two strikingly different coasts. Moroccans are friendly, polite, competitive and intensely curious about the outside world. Islam is the main faith but Morocco’s version is also extremely moderate, open-minded and tolerant. You can go a long way into the heart of their culture just by accepting their hospitality, which is felt from rich and poor alike whether in the city or the countryside. Such gestures of friendship are what transform a good trip into a great experience; you are no longer just visiting but really living. We were lucky enough to be invited to Morocco for a kite shoot with Mystic, the crew included hell-man Ruben Lenten who had not kited since his ankle operation in Cape Town in the beginning of January, Bruna Kajiya, Sjoukje Breedenkamp, Eli Zarka and local windsurfer Boujama who would be our local knowledge while there. As far as cultures go, Morocco is a very different universe to our Western Civilization. The Religion, the food, the very way of life is in stark contrast to our every day lives. So if you
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Brunašs kiting has improved a lot, she was on the program and was busting out every session.
Ruben was on form, first session in 5 months and still going big.
The Moulay line, loads of tourists here camping out during the wind season.
Moulay line-up.
Our transport for the week - you can go anywhere with a Landrover and a good guide.
feel like a bit of an adventure, and some great kiting and windsurfing then definitely head this way. Arriving in a country like this, not knowing anything about it can be a little daunting. Sjoukje and I arrived before the rest of the crew, having landed in Casablanca, we made the call to take a train to Marrakech. What was meant to be a 3 hour train trip ended up being 5, but with all this extra time we got to see some of the amazing countryside and villages. We finally arrived in Marrakech at about 10pm, all the crew where there to meet us, and we set off on the 3 hour taxi trip to what would be our homebase - Essaouira, a beach town in the south of Morocco. Essaouira has been popular among travellers for several decades. Recently it has gained some popularity with wind surfers, kiters and surfers from all over the world. Its picturesque streets are also attracting tourists, who flock to morocco to enjoy its beaches, cuisine and its busy streets, and let’s not forget the camel rides!
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features or most of us traveling around the world free riding is the ultimate dream. For Tuva Jansen this is her life. She gives a us taste of her journey she took to get there.
The streets of Morocco are amazing, the crew take time out in the streets of Essaouira.
The local crew having some fun with bongo drums in one of the many little cafes, this was in Moulay.
Ruben flexing the old joints.
We arrived in darkness and woke the next day to the sounds of the ocean and smells of spices. Our house was a few hundred meters from the main kite and windsurf beach, the city is pretty small and walking around could not be easier. After long trips from all over the world and hours in planes trains and busses, the guys were frothing to get in the water. Harnesses and kite gear were scattered all over our 5 bedroom apartment, lets just say if you have not ever travelled with kiters you would be amazed at what you (and they) can find in between all the gear. Needless to say it took a while for things to get sorted, found and packed. Luckily wind was forecast for the afternoon so there was no rush to get out there. Our trip there consisted of seven days in total, our main plan was not to kite the tourist spots but to drive further north or south to spots that are not usually kited. On many of our trips we passed quaint villages where blue fishing boats scattered the beaches providing shelter from the wind for the fishermen - the wind didn’t favor fishing, but it certainly favoured kiting and windsurfing, and the stranded blue boats made very cool
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backdrops for images and video footage. The Typical Moroccan back drop of azure blue seas, red mountains and cliffs lit up by the magical sunsets is a bit like being in a dream, but as with any dream reality soon sets in …as the suns goes down so the wind picks up blasting sand onto you l like sand paper and reminding you that not everything is perfect. The trip to the beach is something that has to be seen. Passing the local stores where you can buy anything you need for the day, is an experience in itself. Just getting there on the old gravel road, passing all the old broken castles and buildings was mind blowing. Ruben was mumbling “I can’t believe we’re in Morocco man”, he was super amped to get in the water as this would be his first day of kiting in five months. I’ve known Ruben a long time and have done a lot of trips with him, but the night before his first kite session he was excited and focused, he had stopped drinking and was on a strict training
Sjoukje is known for her speed kiting but she still throws some rail.
The sand blasting over the sandbar while the crew try to pack up quickly.
Bruna dodging the camels.
Sjoukje finding shelter from the 026 and the sand. gust july > august 2010 wind
program to get his ankle back in action. Locals had heard that Ruben was in town, and by the time we got the beach (which was not a usual kite beach) there were already some young local kiters there waiting to see him in action. Morocco has a strong presence of local kiters, windsurfers and surfers, after all this is where Moroccan windsurf legend Boujmaa Guilloul lives and is an icon wherever he goes. The local kids know how to kite, and within 30 minutes of them watching Ruben kite they were trying kite loops and mega loops. We could not believe what we were seeing - these kids were getting worked trying to do what the crew was doing in the water. Overall Morocco is a must see country. If you kite, windsurf or surf you will get your fair share of water time. Remember to be friendly, respectful and aware of the culture and you will get all the respect back.
The Moroccan climate varies according to season and region. The coast has a warm, Mediterranean climate tempered on the eastern coast by southwest trade winds. Inland areas have a hotter, drier, continental climate. In the south of the country, the weather is very hot and dry throughout most of the year, though temperatures can drop dramatically at night, especially in the months of December and January. Rain falls from November to March in coastal areas, and the country is mostly dry with high temperatures in summer and a cooler climate in the mountains.
Required Clothing
Lightweight cottons and linens are worn during summer, with warm medium weight wear for the evenings during the winter, and in the mountains. Waterproofing is advisable in the wet season, particularly on the coast and in the mountains. Take a 3.2mm and a 4.3mm wetsuit and you’ll be sorted.
Sjoukje and Bruna enjoying the sunshine paradise.
Eli takes the long walk back past www.gustmagazine.com the sheltered fishing boats.
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Words: Barend Buys Premier Productions Images: www.coreban.com
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hat do you do when you can’t join your mates for a stand up paddle session on a perfect winter’s morning on the West Coast of Africa? You grab your camera and enjoy the fun through a lens. This is what I was forced to do on one of the first classic winter days in Cape Town. It was one of those still mornings, not a breath of wind and near perfect conditions. I awoke all amped to hit the water only to find out that I had an ear infection and would be out of action for the day. I decided that nothing was going to stop me enjoying this perfect day. I grabbed the 600 Canon lens and started snapping away on what turned out to be a crisp winters morning. The great thing about living in Cape Town is that apart from the cold water and sharks – we get these windless days in-between cold fronts that generate clean fun waves. I headed down to one of our local breaks on the West Coast to find local big wave
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charger and travel guru, Greg Bertish chatting to Ivan van Vuuren about the surf conditions. Ivan had just returned from a month long trip to Hawaii. Then arrived longboard extraordinaire Jono Rosslind who pulled up with his boards on the roof all ready to ride. I knew these guys were capable of really doing their thing on stand up boards, so I hung around to see where they were going to paddle out. Just then, Ivan got a call from west coast local Andrew Selley who said that a secret outside reef up the coast – that only works in certain conditions – was looking really good. Without hesitation we all jumped in our cars and headed up to the mystery reef. Now to be honest, whilst driving to this reef I thought to myself that this was probably going to be another one of those “surf mission” days. You know the ones - where you drive around for hours looking for waves and eventually end up at the same spot you started at, only to find the onshore wind
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pumping with junk conditions… But when I arrived I was pleasantly surprised. The guys were in their wetsuits, boards had been waxed, and Andrew was already paddling out through the kelp –no need for ritual warm up stretches. The paddle out took about 15 minutes and this was about all the warm up the crew needed. Andrew caught the first wave of the set, Greg the second, and as I was rushing to set up the tripod and camera, I realised that this was going to be one of those perfect winters days for stand up paddling. After three hours of barrels, nose rides, a couple of wipeouts and SUPing at it’s best, the guys reluctantly came out the water due to dehydration and hunger. I was busy packing up my gear when I received a call from Chad Lahana (who also caught waves at the mystery reef earlier that morning); “Bro, there are cooking waves
at Shipwrecks!” I needed to check my emails, but in Cape Town you make the most of crisp days when they arrive. I rallied up the troops and headed back to the first spot we started off that morning… Shipwrecks had a small but fun wave so I was reluctant to stay, but when I saw Ivan and Jonno trade off boards I thought this was going to be interesting! Jonno jumped on the Coreban 9’0 Fusion and Ivan on the 10’0 Icon. Ivan proceeded to successfully execute one of his stylish moves, “The Boomerang” and Jonno was doing freefall floaters on every second wave. The day came to an end with one of the most beautiful sunsets in Cape Town. Friends were made and waves were shared. Most of all we had fun and enjoyed Gods creation to the utmost! We are now left anxiously waiting for the next classic winters day to do it all over again!
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o you’ve figured out how to get over waves without falling? It’s time to step it up a notch and practice the boomerang. I’ve been doing this move for about 3 years and I gotta admit that it is still as difficult to pull off as the first one! Not to worry though, after a bit of practice it’s a great move that can be performed on waves 2ft or bigger. It’s also a great way to get onto the face of the wave at the last second and ride the wave. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key points to successfully pulling off this move. First off, try this move on a small day. We don’t want you to loose all your front teeth on day 1.
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Head out to sea, and as you see a wave approaching start increasing the speed of your stroke. Look for a wave which is breaking towards you and is not closing out. (A softer, mushier type of wave will be easier at first). If you are goofy footed, look for a left breaking wave and if you are regular footed, a right breaking wave. As you improve, either way can be an option. As you approach the wave, bear off at a slight angle so that the bottom of your board connects with the wave at a side-on angle. This will help push the board around and prevent it from being knocked out under you. Ensure that you are in a surf stance position and apply extra pressure on your back foot, almost sinking the tail as you distribute
weight between the front and back legs. As the wave begins to push your board around, it’s important to keep your body low and weight distributed over your board – this will help absorb the shock. At this point, give a quick stroke with your paddle to assist in pulling the board around completely. Remember your paddle is a tool, so use it to maintain balance and control. Speed is everything, so the faster you can stroke towards the oncoming wave, the more chance you have of pulling off the move. As you improve you’ll be able to do a full 180 and actually ride the wave. This is a great way to catch waves that come through the line up with no one on them. Practice makes perfect! So go for it, watch out for other water users and have fun.
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These two SUP articles were kindly brought to you by
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industry news
the scene behind the scenes! all the news, views and inside scoops on what is really going down...
KPWT RUNS INTO TROUBLE
le gall Gust readers who’ve visited Mauritius will be pleased to hear that the Le Gall clothing range has finally made it to our shores. This unique active wear collection caters for men, woman, and children with unique designs and sunny colour combinations. This new French brand bears the name of Reunion French artist Jean Claude Le Gall, and is hand crafted in Mauritius. The vibrant colours and originality of his minimalist prints are another way of bringing his art to the larger public. Le Gall is a winning combination of artistic vision, sporty fashion, and the finest quality cotton that are a veritable invitation for exotic travels. The full Le Gall collection is exclusively available from middle June 2010 at Sunset Beach Trading – Extreme Sports and Clothing Store, Shop 55, Eden on the Bay Mall, Big Bay, Cape Town, 7448. For more information on Le Gall contact Louisa Baron on 0833 571 944.
The first stop on the KPWT was meant to take place on the 25th of March at Long Beach, Jamaica. This was however not the case as the KPWT made the decision to cancel the event 3 days into competition. The KPWT released this soon after: “This is a huge disappointment for the KPWT, its riders, and the all the media involved who have made the trip to the Caribbean.” The local event organisation was not equipped to handle an event of this stature and nothing was done as pre-scheduled. Jamrock Tours (EUGENE SMITH), has shown utter disregard and commitment to the KPWT and its riders. KPWT had to make a decision fast as to the safety and security for the riders and decided to leave Jamaica on account of poor delivery on what was originally on offer. Nothing had been completed! There was no permit for the beach, the opening ceremony was a disaster, the music festival was cancelled, no safety boats, no lycras, incomplete media offices, half finished judge towers, no buoys and so the list continues…
Kitespotters Cape reels dvd Kitespotters Productions in association with Peter Petersen brings you the latest South African Kiteboarding DVD – Cape Reels. This DVD takes an in-depth look at discovering some of Cape Town’s well known kitesurfing spots with perfect winds, blistering runs and massive wave riding footage. The DVD Features Kevin Langaree (World Champion), Aaron Hadlow (5 times World Champion), Felix Pivec and some of South Africa’s most talented and highly respected kiteboarders as they push
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themselves to new levels. These are the riders who ultimately progress the sport of kiteboarding. Bonus Features include: • South Africa’s record for long distance kiteboarding. • The Wednesday Night Racing Series. All this blood, sweat, kiteboarding and tears is produced to a great soundtrack that is definitely worth adding to your collection.The DVD is 45min long and in 16:9 widescreen format. Available in selected kiteboarding stores. info@kitespotters.co.za
The next KPWT stop is scheduled for Essouira, Morocco from the 6th-11th July.
KPWT looses Court Case against the IKA The Kiteboard Pro World Tour (KPWT, official name: Globe Pro Firm LLC), a limited liability company based in Delaware USA, with its management in Brazil, served a court injunction on the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA), a non profit International Association based in Germany, on the 15th of January, 2010. The court order was to prevent the IKA from making statements about the validity of KPWT events. These statements include that “KPWT is not entitled to use the terms ‘world cup’, ‘world championship’ etc” and “Competitors taking part in unsanctioned events of KPWT will fall under ISAF
regulation 19 and will be excluded from participation in future official ISAF and IKA events”. The hearing took place on the 1st of March 2010 at the 12th Civil Division District Court of Darmstadt, Germany. A decision was then published on the 30th of March 2010.
The court declared that these statements in the context in which the statements have been made, are true and do not constitute anticompetitive conduct. The KPWT having lost the case will have to cover the full costs of the lawsuit for both parties.
SELI 1 IS HERE TO STAY The first few winter swells had the final say in any hopes to remove the beached ship. The 77metre coal carrier ran aground early morning on the 7th of September 2009. The bulk coal carrier was carrying 30 000 tons of coal of which 21 000 tons has been removed. It is believed that the remaining 9000 tons will probably stay on board, as it is getting too dangerous to work on the ship in winter. It is believed that almost all of the 660 tons of fuel on board was pumped to another vessel, however the remaining oil that is located in small quantities in the bulges, engine room and topside tanks is almost impossible to remove entirely. This oil has been leaking into the ocean and polluting our beaches for months. The oil keeps finding new ways out the hull as the huge winter waves continue to weaken the vessel and break her up. It is so sad that we have yet another environmental threat on our beaches. This one just so happens to be on our very own Kite Beach.
KB4Girls Kite Clinics KB4girls stands for both “KiteBoarding for girls” and “Kristin Boese for girls”. While this play on words may be a coincidence, it says everything about the basic structure of KB4girls: Kristin Boese organising Kiteboarding clinics for female kiteboarders.The non-profit organisation aims to:
• to motivate more female kiteboarders to compete in national and international competitions, • to talent-scout female kiters • to support the Surfrider Foundation Europe by donating registration fees and educating the participating girls about pollution of water, oceans and beaches.
• bring female kiters of all ages and levels together. To have fun and to build kitefriendships and communities, • give tips that help girls to improve their kiting easily, • to educate about equipment and safety,
Kristin Boese is a top female athlete and has put in a lot if time to set up this great initiative. The 2010 tour will see 11 stops worldwide. For more information on KB4Girls or to follow the action visit: www.kb4girls.com
Chris does us proud at the World Stand Up Tour… Chris Bertish represented South Africa at the 2nd stop on the World Stand Up Tour in Anglet France. Chris (Naish) who finished a very respectable 5th is juggling between Big Wave Paddle World Championships and the SUP’ing World Tour. Keep flying the flag high Chris!
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SUNSET BEACH TRADING AT SHOP 55, EDEN ON THE BAY MALL Along with the changing of the tides and the wind, the old Slingshot hang out spot for hard-core kiteboarders has received a total overhaul. Yannick Baron has taken over shop 55 at Eden on the Bay Mall. From next month a new Slingshot shipment will be available with RPM’s, Octanes and Fuels, at a 25% discount as an opening special. Sunset Beach Trading are stockists of SUP’s, mystic harnesses and are launching the exclusive Le Gall Sports & Leisure wear from Mauritius. (Caters for the whole family). Sunset Beach Trading is committed to bringing extreme kiting products and active wear to all that like to walk on the wild side. For enquiries about new products
and distribution please contact Yannick Baron, 083 441 0900. bigbaykites@mweb. co.za.
U20 Springboks take to the water The under 20 Springboks attended a
conditioning exercise camp for a week in Saldanha Bay. They worked on speed, fitness as well as team building exercises. They took to the water on a SUP as a teambuilding exercise as well as a venture into the use of SUPing as a potential training exercise. Images by Rob Munro.
Grant “twiggy” Baker wins XXL ride of the year Twiggy is on the XXL podium again – this time he took first place for the prestigious XXL ride of the year category. He received a cheque for US $50 000 (approx. R375 000) for his ride on an enormous wave that he caught during the Mavericks Surf Contest at Half Moon Bay in California on 13 February 2010. Keep them coming twig!
Coreban
Naish
Coreban’s new adjustable paddle range has all the features of the high end paddles, plus the option of multiple length adjustments. It includes a carbon shaft for added strength, the highly rated ergonomic handle and the option to adjust to various lengths.
10’ Mana Soft top - Great entry-level SUP board. It has a unique soft top construction which prevents the effect of impact and gives added durability against paddle damage. RRP R6,295
14’ Javelin -Flat water racer. This board is designed to go fas (very fast) and will suit anyone looking for the fastest, most efficient way of Stand Up Paddling in flat water. POA
Large 215 - 5 increment adjustments (range: approximately 190cm to 215cm). Small 215 - 7 increment adjustments (range is approximately 145cm to 175cm). *Paddle blades available in either carbon or fiberglass hardcore & stealth options. Visit www.coreban.com for more information.
11’6 Nalu Window board – The world’s first Stand Up Paddleboard with a window to view fish and reefs. Based on the classic 11’6 shape. RRP R11,765
Adjustable Aluminium Paddle - Strong, durable and affordable. It adjusts to any size rider and is perfect to share amongst family and friends. RRP R795
The fist year of the SAKT (South Africa Kite Tour) has come to an end. A big thanks to Taro “lighty” Niehaus for taking on the initiative in establishing our first SA tour. Like any new venture, Taro had to find his feet and at times wasn’t the best of friends with everyone. One can only assume that the SAKT will grow and flourish in its second season. We at GUST will certainly grow our support and I’m sure many kiteboarders will follow. Well done to all the competitors and our new champions! Overall men: 1 Luke McGillewie 2 Kurt Schmelzer 3 Oswald Smith Overall women: 1 Megan Jansen v Rensburg 2 Sjoukje Bredenkamp
3 Michelle Smith Freestyle men: 1 Kurt Schmelzer 2 Luke McGillewie 3 James Busse Freestyle women: 1 Sjoukje Bredenkamp 2 Megan Jansen Van Rensburg 3 Michelle Smith Wave Men: 1 Luke McGillewie 2 Oswald Smith 3 Bruce Gonlag Wave women: 1 Michelle Smith 2 Caroline Hossack 3 Megan Jansen Van Rensburg Course Racing Men: 1 Oswald Smith 2 Lanral Ruddock 3 Oscar Armstrong Course racing women: 1 Sjoukje Bredenkamp 2 Megan Jansen v Rensburg 3 Caroline Hossack
IKA World Kite Course everyone by smoking the fleet and ending up carrying 5 firsts Racing Champs The first IKA World Kite Course Racing Championships took place from the 21st -25th April 2010. The event, which was held in Corpus Christi, drew 34 athletes from 14 different countries. The venue proved challenging with constantly changing racing conditions. In the end the event managed to get 10 races in and an official IKA Kite Course Racing World Champion. Adam Koch surprised
and 3 seconds. Top 10 men: Adam Koch (Ozone/USA) Bruno Sroka (Cabrinha/ France) Damien LeRoy (Cabrinha/USA) Johnny Heineken (RRD/USA) Sky Solbach (North/USA) Sean Farley (North/USA) Jesse Richman (Cabrinha/USA) Kent Marinkovic (Cabrinha/USA) Abel Lago (RRD/USA).
PKRA RESULTS (after 2 stops) Freestyle men 1 Andy Yates 2 Alex Pastor 3 Kevin Langeree 4 Youri Zoon 5 Sebastien Garat Freestyle women 1 Gisela Pulido 2 Bruna Kajiya 3 Karolina Winkowska 4 Angela Peral 5 Holly Kennedy Course racing men 1 Bruno Sroka 2 Abel Lago 3 Julien Kerneur 4 Bjoern Rune Jensen 5 Renaud Madler Course racing women 1 Kari Schibevaag 2 Kristin Boese 3 Caroline Adrien 4 Nuria Goma 5 Gisela Pulido
Chip Wasson (Ozone/USA) Top Three Women: Kari Schibevaag (Ozone/Norway) Steph Bridge (North/UK) Kristin Boese (Best/Germany)
SUP results The Naish Primi National SUP Race Series kicked off on 2 May in Durban, with perfect conditions and a great course. The fastest male was Jason Wright from Umdloti (Naish) The fastest lady was Hanli Prinsloo from Kalk Bay (Naish)
CABRINHA (WC)
lagoon sports (WC)
Telephone: 044 874 1425
Shop 53A, Eden on the Bay, Big Bay
Main Beach Langebaan. Next to Pearlys
Email: netcools@mweb.co.za
Contact Person: Grant Ross
Restuarant
Telephone: 021 554 1729
Contact Person: David Bailey
Email: grant@cabrinha.co.za
info@lagoonsports.com
inland kiteboarding (JHB)
simon@cabrinha.co.za
www.lagoonsports.com
Shop 5A NCH Centre. C/o Sonja &
Telephone: 082 851 9966
Elsa Str, Doringkloof, PTA
CAPE DOCTOR (WC)
Contact Person: Degald Hacquebord Telephone: 071 418 3332
Contact Person: Cindy Welch
Net Cools kitesurfing Tours (GR)
Telephone: 021 557 0740
Shop 24B Courtenay Str. George, 6529
Website: www.adsports.co.za
Email: goose@capedr.co.za
Contact Person: Renette Erasmus
64a Blaauwberg Road, Table View
Email: info@adsports.co.za
back lines
SAKT Overall Results
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