In today's episode, we have a passionate kitesurfer: Mary H. From her first experience with a kite in Boston, to participating in competitions with the English team Eleveight UK, Mary shows us how a sport can connect people, inspire others and become a constant source of motivation. Isn't this what we all look for when starting a new sport? Read on to find out more!
Q1. How and when did you discover your passion for kitesurfing?
"When I was living in Boston, one of my friends taught me how to kite. Then, I really fell in love with the sport after spending a summer in Hood River, Oregon. I heard someone say once that kitesurfing is a life hack – and I totally agree! It opens up your life to such a great community of people, and keeps you active, outdoors, and traveling to some pretty cool destinations."
Q2. What has been your most memorable experience so far in your sporting career?
"In terms of achievements, probably landing my first kite loop this summer (send it scared!) and participating in my first competition. But in general, the most memorable experiences are those sessions where I’m on the water with my best friends."
Q3. What goals do you have now and what motivates you the most to take on this new challenge?
"My goal is to keep pushing and progressing – I love the challenge of learning a new move. I’m hoping to land my board-off soon (the board off is the easy part, the board on is harder)! I also want to explore some other disciplines – like kitesurfing (with a surf board)."
Q4. Who have been your biggest influences or mentors throughout your career?
"I have to thank Sylwia and Pawel from Infinity Sport Kitesurfing for welcoming me into their community and team as soon as I moved to the UK. I look up to Jasmine Cho and so many of the riders out in Hood River who are such a supportive group – on and off the water!"
Q5. What habits have helped you stay at the highest level in your sport?
"I like to go to the gym during the week, which probably helps in some way. But I think it’s probably my dedication (addiction?) to the sport. If you know me, you know I like to stay out on the water for hours. Also, I live in London and don’t have a car, but will carry all my gear and take a bus to the Tube, to a train and then catch a ride the rest of the way just to have a session."
Q6. How do you handle the pressure when you are facing a major competition?
"I’m not an expert on this, but I tried to approach the competition as a fun opportunity to showcase my kiting! Going out for a mini session before my heat helped with some of the nerves."
Q7. What advice would you give to someone who is starting out in the world of kitesurfing?
"Keep showing up! There is a steep learning curve (it took me ages to learn), but it’s so worth it! Chat with people on the beach – most kiters are super friendly and willing to give tips. Plus, kiting is always better with friends."
Q8. What are the essential items that are never missing from your equipment when you train or compete?
"Kite, board, bar, harness, wetsuit –the essentials (and what I repeat to myself to remember all my gear for every session). I love my Eleveight RS kites and Eleveight Master S board."
Q9. What do you think of KGUARD Premium Waterproof Designs products and brand?
"I've always enjoyed supporting companies that make quality products, and KGUARD is just that! I love their niche products which are really well thought out for us water sports lovers."
Q10. What is your favorite KGUARD product? Why?
"I love the KGUARD Soft Cube Large Dry Bag - it's perfect for travelling with wet gear (like a full wetsuit and harness). This is really helpful for me since I often take the Tube and the train to get to the beach. You can also use the bag for changing and stand in the bag to take off your wetsuit, so it doesn’t fall on the ground in the parking lot – so clever!"
Mary is an example of dedication, passion and love for kitesurfing. With a solid community by our side, we are all ready to face new challenges and learn more tricks. Thank you, Mary!