In the pantheon of water sports, kiteboarding (or kitesurfing) stands out as one of the most thrilling and innovative. The man whose name is intricately linked to its evolution and the intriguing world of kite boating is Don Montague. His journey from windsurfing enthusiast to kiteboarding pioneer and, eventually, kite boating innovator is a testament to a life dedicated to harnessing the power of the wind.
Early Days: Windsurfing & Kiteboarding Evolution
Don Montague’s tryst with water sports began with windsurfing. In the late 80s and early 90s, he was among the top windsurfers in Canada. But as the 1990s progressed, the world began witnessing the early stages of kiteboarding, a sport that combined aspects of windsurfing, paragliding, and surfing. Montague, with his visionary mindset, recognized the potential of this emerging sport.
Joining hands with the likes of Robby Naish and Pete Cabrinha, Montague became instrumental in shaping the early equipment and safety mechanisms for kiteboarding. He was involved in designing kites that were more stable and reliable, leading to the sport becoming accessible to a wider audience.
Kite Boating: Harnessing the Power
While Montague’s contributions to kiteboarding were significant, it was his subsequent venture into kite boating that set him apart. The idea was simple yet revolutionary: harnessing the power of a kite to propel boats. This was not just about recreational boating; Montague envisioned this as a sustainable means of propulsion, leveraging the abundant power of the wind.
He started experimenting with various boat designs, kite configurations, and control systems. Collaborating with a dedicated team, Montague introduced several prototypes that demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of kite propulsion for boats. These boats ranged from small dinghies to larger vessels.
Makani Power: A Vision for the Future
Montague’s exploration into harnessing wind power transcended the realm of water sports. Recognizing the potential of kites in generating renewable energy, Montague co-founded Makani Power in 2006. This venture aimed at developing airborne wind turbines, essentially kites equipped with turbines, to capture wind energy at higher altitudes where winds are stronger and more consistent. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, took notice and acquired Makani Power in 2013, further solidifying Montague’s reputation as a forward-thinker.
Legacy
Today, Don Montague remains an emblematic figure in the world of water sports and sustainable energy solutions. His journey from the waves of kiteboarding to the innovation labs of kite boating and airborne energy solutions underscores a life dedicated to pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, and harnessing the majestic power of the wind.
From the beaches to the boardrooms, Montague’s legacy is a testament to where passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of dreams can lead.
