Age: 31
Home Park: Slider Project Park, Hood River, OR
Country: USA
What makes you so attracted to park riding?
Since everyone is focused on a fixed point in the water, taking turns and riding the same obstacles, I find that it’s more social than other disciplines in kiteboarding. Which is not only a benefit of park riding but also a necessity. With park riding, you often have to work together to move obstacles and set up the park which sometimes can seem like a hassle but I think it also makes you feel more invested. I also naturally gravitated towards the park since my home spot is Hood River, Oregon; home to the Slider Project Park and I was enticed by seeing other people riding it everyday.
What motivates you on the water?
I tend to feel the most motivated when I’m riding with friends who I know are also pushing themselves and working on new tricks. Even if they are attempting totally different tricks to what I’m learning, knowing that they are pushing their own limits inspires me to push past my own.
Any recommendations for learning new tricks?
Spend time on the water with kiters who are better than you. If that’s not an option, think about what you’d like to learn and look up instructional videos to understand the basics of what you need to do. Spend time off the water visualizing the new trick and also make sure that you are solid on all of the fundamentals required to take your moves to the next level. If you aren’t sure, take a step back and break down the trick into parts. Start small to go big!
What would you say to anyone wanting to learn to kite?
As Nike put it: just do it! Don’t wait any longer, do a bit of research and find your local school or look for one with a great reputation and consistent conditions and book a week. You’ll be rocking it in no time.
What inspires you?
Riding with other kiters who are throwing down, landing new tricks, seeing my lady friends stomp NBDs and witnessing beginner kiteboarders gain their stoke for the sport.
Why do you like competing on the KPL?
I think the KPL is made up of some of the most passionate kiteboarders on the planet which makes it something prettyincredible to be a part of.
