GIEL VLUGT
THE OMAN MISSION
In preparation for the Big Air competition season, doubles master Giel Vlugt set off on a mission to the mythical realms of the Arabian Peninsula. Blessed with strong and consistent winds, warm waters, and boundless desert backdrops, the Sultanate of Oman delivered sessions to remember.
Powered by the latest Big Air machine, the Flite A-Series, Giel took center stage in a true Big Air expo, captured by photographer Ahmed Alfudhili, and enjoyed by the curious local crowd who had never seen anything quite like it before…
We caught up with Giel after the shoot for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of this tale from the desert lands.
Tell us a little about the shoot. Where did it take place?
The shoot was done in Masirah Island in Oman. A beautiful place if you want wind, beach, sun and no distractions. I was shooting with Ahmed Mohammed Alfudhili, who’s an Omani photographer and a legend!
What were the conditions like that day? Had you planned to hit it when the conditions were good?
To be honest, we had a strong wind for at least two weeks straight. I think we had at least 25/30 knots every day, which is special for any place. You just see wind on the forecast every day so we planned the shoot more according to the clouds than the wind.
Is Oman the new Big Air hotspot?
I’m not sure if Oman is the new Big Air hotspot. If you just want to kite all day and every day then yes, absolutely. You can drive a 4WD to the beach and start from there so every day is an adventure. But there are no real luxuries. To us, that’s exactly what we wanted, but that’s probably not for everyone.
What was your gear set-up during the shoot?
I was riding my 8-meter Flite A-Series during the shoot. I got really addicted to this kite because it gave me a boost and hangtime I never had. I was mainly riding my Pilot bar 46cm with 22 meter lines, but took out the 12 meter lines for one session as well.
You say you’re addicted to the new 5-strut Flite and you’ve chosen the Flite as your Big Air weapon in recent competitions.. Tell us what makes it so special for you?
I’ve just not had that amount of time in the air for a while. This now allows me to think of adding rotations or board flips where before I just really had to concentrate on making it down safe. And in Oman I was riding an 8 meter in 20 knots and having a good time… I mean if you know me and you know that I’m about 88 kilos, that must say a lot!
Anywhere else on the bucket list you want to head?
Of course, I have so many ideas of places I want to go to but right now I’m 100% focused on competing and nothing else. So in terms of where I want to go next: to the top of the podium of course!
After a very solid 3rd place in the recent Full Power Tarifa competition (despite a rib injury), we have no doubt that another top spot on the podium awaits... So get ready for an action packed Big Air season ahead.
GIEL VLUGT
THE OMAN MISSION
In preparation for the Big Air competition season, doubles master Giel Vlugt set off on a mission to the mythical realms of the Arabian Peninsula. Blessed with strong and consistent winds, warm waters, and boundless desert backdrops, the Sultanate of Oman delivered sessions to remember.
Powered by the latest Big Air machine, the Flite A-Series, Giel took center stage in a true Big Air expo, captured by photographer Ahmed Alfudhili, and enjoyed by the curious local crowd who had never seen anything quite like it before…
We caught up with Giel after the shoot for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of this tale from the desert lands.
Tell us a little about the shoot. Where did it take place?
The shoot was done in Masirah Island in Oman. A beautiful place if you want wind, beach, sun and no distractions. I was shooting with Ahmed Mohammed Alfudhili, who’s an Omani photographer and a legend!
What were the conditions like that day? Had you planned to hit it when the conditions were good?
To be honest, we had a strong wind for at least two weeks straight. I think we had at least 25/30 knots every day, which is special for any place. You just see wind on the forecast every day so we planned the shoot more according to the clouds than the wind.
Is Oman the new Big Air hotspot?
I’m not sure if Oman is the new Big Air hotspot. If you just want to kite all day and every day then yes, absolutely. You can drive a 4WD to the beach and start from there so every day is an adventure. But there are no real luxuries. To us, that’s exactly what we wanted, but that’s probably not for everyone.
What was your gear set-up during the shoot?
I was riding my 8-meter Flite A-Series during the shoot. I got really addicted to this kite because it gave me a boost and hangtime I never had. I was mainly riding my Pilot bar 46cm with 22 meter lines, but took out the 12 meter lines for one session as well.
You say you’re addicted to the new 5-strut Flite and you’ve chosen the Flite as your Big Air weapon in recent competitions. Tell us what makes it so special for you?
I’ve just not had that amount of time in the air for a while. This now allows me to think of adding rotations or board flips where before I just really had to concentrate on making it down safe. And in Oman I was riding an 8 meter in 20 knots and having a good time… I mean if you know me and you know that I’m about 88 kilos, that must say a lot!
Anywhere else on the bucket list you want to head?
Of course, I have so many ideas of places I want to go to but right now I’m 100% focused on competing and nothing else. So in terms of where I want to go next: to the top of the podium of course!
After a very solid 3rd place in the recent Full Power Tarifa competition (despite a rib injury), we have no doubt that another top spot on the podium awaits... So get ready for an action packed Big Air season ahead.
Insane boosting and hangtime. Massive vertical lift…
This is the new 5-strut A-Series Flite.
Featuring a full-ALUULA airframe, the new Flite is the lightest 5-strut kite in the world, and a dream for any Big Air rider. With less aggressive performance than the Rise, the Flite suits riders who want to “send it” without looking to perform extreme megaloop moves.
So get your boosting machine now. The 5-strut Flite 7m - 9m arrive in shops in October - just in time for the Big Air season!
DISCOVER THE
FLITE A-SERIES
Insane boosting and hangtime. Massive vertical lift…
This is the new 5-strut A-Series Flite.
Featuring a full-ALUULA airframe, the new Flite is the lightest 5-strut kite in the world, and a dream for any Big Air rider. With less aggressive performance than the Rise, the Flite suits riders who want to “send it” without looking to perform extreme megaloop moves.
So get your boosting machine now. The 5-strut Flite 7m - 9m arrive in shops in October - just in time for the Big Air season!
GIEL VLUGT
THE OMAN MISSION
In preparation for the Big Air competition season, doubles master Giel Vlugt set off on a mission to the mythical realms of the Arabian Peninsula. Blessed with strong and consistent winds, warm waters, and boundless desert backdrops, the Sultanate of Oman delivered sessions to remember.
Powered by the latest Big Air machine, the Flite A-Series, Giel took center stage in a true Big Air expo, captured by photographer Ahmed Alfudhili, and enjoyed by the curious local crowd who had never seen anything quite like it before…
We caught up with Giel after the shoot for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of this tale from the desert lands.
Tell us a little about the shoot. Where did it take place?
The shoot was done in Masirah Island in Oman. A beautiful place if you want wind, beach, sun and no distractions. I was shooting with Ahmed Mohammed Alfudhili, who’s an Omani photographer and a legend!
What were the conditions like that day? Had you planned to hit it when the conditions were good?
To be honest, we had a strong wind for at least two weeks straight. I think we had at least 25/30 knots every day, which is special for any place. You just see wind on the forecast every day so we planned the shoot more according to the clouds than the wind.
Is Oman the new Big Air hotspot?
I’m not sure if Oman is the new Big Air hotspot. If you just want to kite all day and every day then yes, absolutely. You can drive a 4WD to the beach and start from there so every day is an adventure. But there are no real luxuries. To us, that’s exactly what we wanted, but that’s probably not for everyone.
What was your gear set-up during the shoot?
I was riding my 8-meter Flite A-Series during the shoot. I got really addicted to this kite because it gave me a boost and hangtime I never had. I was mainly riding my Pilot bar 46cm with 22 meter lines, but took out the 12 meter lines for one session as well.
You say you’re addicted to the new 5-strut Flite and you’ve chosen the Flite as your Big Air weapon in recent competitions. Tell us what makes it so special for you?
I’ve just not had that amount of time in the air for a while. This now allows me to think of adding rotations or board flips where before I just really had to concentrate on making it down safe. And in Oman I was riding an 8 meter in 20 knots and having a good time… I mean if you know me and you know that I’m about 88 kilos, that must say a lot!
Anywhere else on the bucket list you want to head?
Of course, I have so many ideas of places I want to go to but right now I’m 100% focused on competing and nothing else. So in terms of where I want to go next: to the top of the podium of course!
After a very solid 3rd place in the recent Full Power Tarifa competition (despite a rib injury), we have no doubt that another top spot on the podium awaits... So get ready for an action packed Big Air season ahead.
DISCOVER THE
FLITE A-SERIES
Insane boosting and hangtime. Massive vertical lift… This is the new 5-strut A-Series Flite.
Featuring a full-ALUULA airframe, the new Flite is the lightest 5-strut kite in the world, and a dream for any Big Air rider. With less aggressive performance than the Rise, the Flite suits riders who want to “send it” without looking to perform extreme megaloop moves.
So get your boosting machine now. The 5-strut Flite 7m - 9m arrive in shops in October - just in time for the Big Air season!
Epic wave battles took place at the legendary wave spot that is Ponta Preta during the first stop of the Qatar Airways GKA Kite-surf World Cup in Cape Verde this past weekend. Ocean Rodeo team rider and board designer Reece Myerscough put on a spectacular performance, making his way through to the quarter finals where he lost against local legend Airton Cozzolino, but it marks a great start to the season for Reece and we can't wait to see him on the next tour stop!
Also joining him on the water, and making its first competitive debut, was Reece’s brand new weapon of choice –the A-Series Crave – a full ALUULA high-performance wave machine. More on that coming soon...
In the last part of our series, we take a closer look at the final piece within the Champion’s quiver – his board. Why exactly is the Tumbler Giel’s board-of-choice, and what’s his ideal straps set-up for knocking out those steezy board-offs? All is revealed…
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Do you have the footstraps set loose for board offs?
Just a little bit – if they are too loose you can't edge hard enough or lose them in the kickers. Also when the foot straps are too loose you can really annoy the muscles around your shin which can get really painful.
Is the Tumbler concept perhaps part of the secret weapon that's getting you higher this year?
Pretty much! I do believe the Tumbler is a big part of getting that vertical and explosive take off! There’s more speed, more control, and of course I have the confidence in it to stomp big landings.
What Tumbler size do you ride the most?
I ride the 135 in powered to overpowered conditions and the 138 in light conditions.
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Freestyle boards are more flexible on the tips and have "pop"... but you have moved exclusively to the Tumbler, with its large concave. Why?
To be honest, I didn't want to ride the Tumbler at first because I have never seen that shape before. But once I tried it I got hooked! The grip and upwind performance is unmatched! When coming down from a loop with loads of speed it feels like the board just hugs the water and provides that super stable landing. So now I'm a huge fan and I recommend everyone to try it!
How do you set up your foot pads?
My foot pads are in the middle stance, favored to heel side and slightly duck stance.
Do you have the footstraps set loose for board offs?
Just a little bit – if they are too loose you can't edge hard enough or lose them in the kickers. Also when the foot straps are too loose you can really annoy the muscles around your shin which can get really painful.
Is the Tumbler part of your secret formula that's getting you even higher this year?
Pretty much! I do believe the Tumbler is a big part of getting that vertical and explosive take off! There’s more speed, more control, and of course I have the confidence in it to stomp big landings.
What Tumbler size do you ride the most?
I ride the 135 in powered to overpowered conditions and the 138 in light conditions.
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggressive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain complete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
The Tumbler is available in two sizes 138×43 and 135x42cm.
Short lines vs. long lines – this is one of the hottest topics in Big Air kiteboarding right now. In this episode of The Big Air Blueprint, we find out from Double loop pioneer Giel Vlugt what he perceives as the perfect line length, and his preferred control system setup for sending it big.
So Giel, what Ocean Rodeo control system do you use?
I use the Pilot Bar.
Do you adjust your center line bar trim just before "going big"?
Nope, I just take it as it is and go as big as possible!
What is your "go to" line length? Are you changing line lengths for S-loops or double loops?
Always 22s. For me it's just the perfect combination of height, power and steering feedback for me. I've been experimenting with 12 meter lines for fun too lately. A different ball game but extremely fun!
What size trim loop do you use? Big (Freestyle) or small (Freeride)?
I use the Freeride loop! It just feels better to have the bar close to me when I'm looping and hanging upside down. It just feels so much more connected to me, and that’s super important.
Where do you attach your leash? Harness front or back?
On the front of the harness, on the right. To make sure I can reach it quickly if I need it!
Sometimes when watching you coming down from a megaloop I see you pumping the bar… What’s happening here?
If you loop the kite very low or if the second loop takes out all the power, the lines slack for a second. By pumping the bar you try to get the line tension back and you can get the kite to recover so you can land smoothly. It's a rush!
What length bars do you use for each Rise size in your quiver?
For the doubles I use the 52cm bars. So the 7 and 8 meter I ride on big bars for doubles and also the 11 and 12. The 46cm bar is for single loop action for the 7, 8, 9 and 10 meter. Because the kite is so quick it's nice to ride a smaller bar to make sure the loops aren't too high.
So Giel, what Ocean Rodeo control system do you use?
I use the Pilot Bar.
Do you adjust your center line bar trim just before "going big"?
Nope, I just take it as it is and go as big as possible!
What is your "go to" line length? Are you changing line lengths for S-loops or double loops?
Always 22s. For me it's just the perfect combination of height, power and steering feedback for me. I've been experimenting with 12 meter lines for fun too lately. A different ball game but extremely fun!
What size trim loop do you use? Big (Freestyle) or small (Freeride)?
I use the Freeride loop! It just feels better to have the bar close to me when I'm looping and hanging upside down. It just feels so much more connected to me, and that’s super important.
Where do you attach your leash? Harness front or back?
On the front of the harness, on the right. To make sure I can reach it quickly if I need it!
Sometimes when watching you coming down from a megaloop I see you pumping the bar… What’s happening here?
If you loop the kite very low or if the second loop takes out all the power, the lines slack for a second. By pumping the bar you try to get the line tension back and you can get the kite to recover so you can land smoothly. It's a rush!
What length bars do you use for each Rise size in your quiver?
For the doubles I use the 52cm bars. So the 7 and 8 meter I ride on big bars for doubles and also the 11 and 12. The 46cm bar is for single loop action for the 7, 8, 9 and 10 meter. Because the kite is so quick it's nice to ride a smaller bar to make sure the loops aren't too high.
Totally redesigned, the Pilot bar is a culmination of 20 years frontline trim design experience. Every component is refined to deliver the cleanest, easiest to use frontline trim bar to date.
The Pilot is available in two sizes: 46 cm and 52cm, with 22m lines.
Powered by the ultimate Big Air machine, the A-Series Rise, Giel Vlugt literally changed the rulebook in the Big Air game, pioneering moves that were simply not attainable before. So exactly how has the pairing of the Rise and Giel Vlugt worked out so spectacularly? We dug a little deeper to find out…
What’s your favorite size in the Rise line-up, Giel?
Well it really depends for what... In light wind, the 11 or 12 is just magical, as you can start kiteloops in very low wind. The 9 meter is just an insane boosting/megalooping machine and the 7 is just the absolute perfect option for doubles and S-Loops!
So which size Rise would you say you use the most?
Lately I've been riding the 9 meter a lot to progress in kiteloop boardoff rotations. That kite is simply something else.
What’s your favorite size in the Rise line-up, Giel?
Well it really depends for what... In light wind, the 11 or 12 is just magical, as you can start kiteloops in very low wind. The 9 meter is just an insane boosting/megalooping machine and the 7 is just the absolute perfect option for doubles and S-Loops!
So which size Rise would you say you use the most?
Lately I've been riding the 9 meter a lot to progress in kiteloop boardoff rotations. That kite is simply something else.
How hard do you pump the Rise? Do you pump softer for lighter winds or a different psi for different tricks or conditions?
I personally pump the kites to 9 psi in light wind and 10 in strong wind. I haven't had any issues with that. The structure is so stable that I don't feel it even matters that much.
How does the ALUULA airframe feel on the Rise for the doubles, S-loops and massive airs vs when you were riding dacron framed kites? Do you think you would have considered doubles and S-loops pre ALUULA / Rise?
I don't know really. But put it this way… I never thought about doing doubles until I tried the Rise for the very first time. And that was a 10 meter!
You don’t swap down a kite size for doubles or S-loops, while the other riders go from 9m to 6m during heats so they can double. What’s the theory here? How can you double a 9m while others can't?
I've doubled a 9 only 5 times, since there's no space for errors. But the 9 doubles because it flies quickly on the second loop. I believe the reason that the ALUULA kites loop quick on the second loop is because of their lightness. Of course there are some more tricks to it than just that… but for now I'll keep those to myself, haha!
At the last few Big Air events, you and the Rise have been recording the highest jumps. Have you learned some new techniques with the Rise to get up to that next level?
The sweet spot for the right take off is pretty small on a Rise, making it hard to get the perfect take off. But when you get it I truly believe it launches you better and higher than any other kite in the world. I'm still trying to perfect it and together with Ocean Rodeo we are working on increasing the sweet spot. So you spend a bit more time on timing your jumps but you will be rewarded once you get it!
How hard do you pump the Rise? Do you pump softer for lighter winds or a different psi for different tricks or conditions?
I personally pump the kites to 9 psi in light wind and 10 in strong wind. I haven't had any issues with that. The structure is so stable that I don't feel it even matters that much.
How does the ALUULA airframe feel on the Rise for the doubles, S-loops and massive airs vs when you were riding dacron framed kites?
Do you think you would have considered doubles and S-loops pre ALUULA / Rise?
I don't know really. But put it this way… I never thought about doing doubles until I tried the Rise for the very first time. And that was a 10 meter!
You don’t swap down a kite size for doubles or S-loops, while the other riders go from 9m to 6m during heats so they can double.
What’s the theory here? How can you double a 9m while others can't?
I've doubled a 9 only 5 times, since there's no space for errors. But the 9 doubles because it flies quickly on the second loop. I believe the reason that the ALUULA kites loop quick on the second loop is because of their lightness. Of course there are some more tricks to it than just that… but for now I'll keep those to myself, haha!
At the last few Big Air events, you and the Rise have been recording the highest jumps. Have you learned some new techniques with the Rise to get up to that next level?
The sweet spot for the right take off is pretty small on a Rise, making it hard to get the perfect take off. But when you get it I truly believe it launches you better and higher than any other kite in the world. I'm still trying to perfect it and together with Ocean Rodeo we are working on increasing the sweet spot. So you spend a bit more time on timing your jumps but you will be rewarded once you get it!
How hard do you pump the Rise? Do you pump softer for lighter winds or a different psi for different tricks or conditions?
I personally pump the kites to 9 psi in light wind and 10 in strong wind. I haven't had any issues with that. The structure is so stable that I don't feel it even matters that much.
How does the ALUULA airframe feel on the Rise for the doubles, S-loops and massive airs vs when you were riding dacron framed kites? Do you think you would have considered doubles and S-loops pre ALUULA / Rise?
I don't know really. But put it this way… I never thought about doing doubles until I tried the Rise for the very first time. And that was a 10 meter!
You don’t swap down a kite size for doubles or S-loops, while the other riders go from 9m to 6m during heats so they can double.
What’s the theory here? How can you double a 9m while others can't?
I've doubled a 9 only 5 times, since there's no space for errors. But the 9 doubles because it flies quickly on the second loop. I believe the reason that the ALUULA kites loop quick on the second loop is because of their lightness. Of course there are some more tricks to it than just that… but for now I'll keep those to myself, haha!
At the last few Big Air events, you and the Rise have been recording the highest jumps. Have you learned some new techniques with the Rise to get up to that next level?
The sweet spot for the right take off is pretty small on a Rise, making it hard to get the perfect take off. But when you get it I truly believe it launches you better and higher than any other kite in the world. I'm still trying to perfect it and together with Ocean Rodeo we are working on increasing the sweet spot. So you spend a bit more time on timing your jumps but you will be rewarded once you get it!
Built with a cutting-edge full ALUULA airframe, the 5-strut, high aspect Rise delivers new standards in acceleration, precision control, Big Air torque and launch performance.
The combination of the Rise’s highly tuned airfoil design, with the proven revolutionary benefits of the ultra lightweight ALUULA composite material, delivers an ultra stable airframe, allowing for utmost rider confidence, and creating a true synergy between the Big Air rider and their kite.
Built using 82gsm ALUULA Gold composite material and ALUULA Seam technology, the Rise’s power to weight ratio is next level, coming in at over twice the strength of traditional Dacron airframes, yet at half the weight. The airframe can also withstand a higher pressure than the industry standard, providing exceptionally tuned-in and optimized performance, even in the most extreme conditions.
The Rise is available in sizes 7m, 8m, 9m, 10m, 12m.
What a spectacular season it was for Ocean Rodeo team rider Giel Vlugt! From daring to perform the first ever Double loop in the history of kiting, followed by a stylish S-loop, winning the podium at Full Power Tarifa, winning 2022 GKA Male Rider of the Year and 2022 GKA Best Move awards, putting up an incredible show at this year’s King of the Air battle, and wrapping up the year with first place winner of the 2022 BAKL World Tour.
As he prepares to power into the new season, we caught up with ‘The Viking’ to find out exactly what he sees as the winning formula behind his fast-growing trophy wall. Through finding the perfect conditions, the right kite size, the length of the bar lines and the ultimate board, in this 4-part series Giel walks us through the blueprint that works for him… and what could work for you too!
Morning Giel. So how tall and heavy are you?
Morning! I'm 187 cm (6’1) and around 88-90 kilos.
Tell us what your favorite Big Air conditions are…
My favorite Big Air conditions are anything between 30-55 knots!
Anything below 30 is just not giving me the height I need, and anything above 55 is just turning into hanging on for dear life!
What was your favorite event of 2022 and why?
The King of the Air! It always is, because it's simply the biggest, the stakes are the highest and it's just the one you want to win most!
Morning Giel. So how tall and heavy are you?
Morning! I'm 187 cm (6’1) and around 88-90 kilos.
Tell us what your favorite Big Air conditions are…
My favorite Big Air conditions are anything between 30-55 knots! Anything below 30 is just not giving me the height I need, and anything above 55 is just turning into hanging on for dear life!
What was your favorite event of 2022 and why?
The King of the Air! It always is, because it's simply the biggest, the stakes are the highest and it's just the one you want to win most!
Giel put on a spectacular show at the most extreme edition of Red Bull King of the Air last year. Watch King of the Air with Giel Vlugt here.
How important are ramps for going big and pulling your new moves? Your best trick S-loop for 2022 was in totally flat water and it was massive!
To be honest, going big is just a safety net for small errors. You can over or understeer the kite quite a lot and still have plenty of time to correct the position of the kite. So it's crazy important to get good height so you have time to make those all-important mid-air decisions.
Do you ride all stock Ocean Rodeo gear during the competitions?
Yes absolutely! The only thing I change is the bar pressure setting. I love to use the soft setting to get the most quickness out of the kite as I possibly can!
What constitutes a good diet when you’re training for competitions?
Before King of the Air I always try to slim down because I want to try and be as light as I can. But overall I try to build (functional) muscle and eat plenty of fibers, healthy fats and proteins. I do eat carbs as well but mainly only if I have very active or intense days on the water.
And how about physical training other than kiting? Do you recommend certain exercises if you’re looking to get good at Big Air?
I do spend a lot of time in the gym to build and sustain muscle that’ll help me take impacts on crashes and improves my core stability for when I’m airborne. On the cardio side I’m playing a lot of padel now. It’s a good conditioning training but also very explosive which can help you in kiting with, for instance, a takeoff.
Would you say you have to be a fairly physically robust person to engage in Big Air? Or is it accessible to anyone?
It’s absolutely accessible to everyone but it helps to be on the stronger side for it to be sustainable. Because in Big Air you know that if you’re pushing it, you will take hits. And it’s a lot nicer to have a natural impact vest under your actual impact vest, trust me!
How important are ramps for going big and pulling your new moves? Your best trick S-loop for 2022 was in totally flat water and it was massive!
To be honest, going big is just a safety net for small errors. You can over or understeer the kite quite a lot and still have plenty of time to correct the position of the kite. So it's crazy important to get good height so you have time to make those all-important mid-air decisions.
Do you ride all stock Ocean Rodeo gear during the competitions?
Yes absolutely! The only thing I change is the bar pressure setting. I love to use the soft setting to get the most quickness out of the kite as I possibly can!
What constitutes a good diet when you’re training for competitions?
Before King of the Air I always try to slim down because I want to try and be as light as I can. But overall I try to build (functional) muscle and eat plenty of fibers, healthy fats and proteins. I do eat carbs as well but mainly only if I have very active or intense days on the water.
And how about physical training other than kiting? Do you recommend certain exercises if you’re looking to get good at Big Air?
I do spend a lot of time in the gym to build and sustain muscle that’ll help me take impacts on crashes and improves my core stability for when I’m airborne. On the cardio side I’m playing a lot of padel now. It’s a good conditioning training but also very explosive which can help you in kiting with, for instance, a takeoff.
Would you say you have to be a fairly physically robust person to engage in Big Air?Or is it accessible to anyone?
It’s absolutely accessible to everyone but it helps to be on the stronger side for it to be sustainable. Because in Big Air you know that if you’re pushing it, you will take hits. And it’s a lot nicer to have a natural impact vest under your actual impact vest, trust me!
How important are ramps for going big and pulling your new moves? Your best trick S-loop for 2022 was in totally flat water and it was massive!
To be honest, going big is just a safety net for small errors. You can over or understeer the kite quite a lot and still have plenty of time to correct the position of the kite. So it's crazy important to get good height so you have time to make those all-important mid-air decisions.
Do you ride all stock Ocean Rodeo gear during the competitions?
Yes absolutely! The only thing I change is the bar pressure setting. I love to use the soft setting to get the most quickness out of the kite as I possibly can!
What constitutes a good diet when you’re training for competitions?
Before King of the Air I always try to slim down because I want to try and be as light as I can. But overall I try to build (functional) muscle and eat plenty of fibers, healthy fats and proteins. I do eat carbs as well but mainly only if I have very active or intense days on the water.
And how about physical training other than kiting? Do you recommend certain exercises if you’re looking to get good at Big Air?
I do spend a lot of time in the gym to build and sustain muscle that’ll help me take impacts on crashes and improves my core stability for when I’m airborne. On the cardio side I’m playing a lot of padel now. It’s a good conditioning training but also very explosive which can help you in kiting with, for instance, a takeoff.
Would you say you have to be a fairly physically robust person to engage in Big Air? Or is it accessible to anyone?
It’s absolutely accessible to everyone but it helps to be on the stronger side for it to be sustainable. Because in Big Air you know that if you’re pushing it, you will take hits. And it’s a lot nicer to have a natural impact vest under your actual impact vest, trust me!
We take a closer look at the mega-looping, mega-boosting machine that is the Rise, as Giel explains the theory behind his favorite size, preferred psi and what it takes to double a 9! Stay tuned….
The once impossible has now been made possible due to the Rise, fine tuned to perform like no other Big Air kite on the market...
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggressive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain complete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
Totally redesigned, the Pilot Bar is a culmination of 20 years frontline trim design experience. We went all out and refined every component to deliver the cleanest, easiest to use frontline trim bar to date.
Ocean Rodeo team riders Reece Myerscough, Mathis Ghio, Ryan Parsons, Frances Kelly and Luke Millard take the latest and greatest Ocean Rodeo gear and head out on an adventure to the wind-rich shores of northeastern Brazil, in search of playful waves, açaí bowls and unforgettable Brazilian sunsets.
Dive in for plenty of wingfoil, kitesurf and hydrofoil action from the crew, in the windy paradise that is Taiba.
Bom Dia!
Ocean Rodeo team riders Reece Myerscough, Frances Kelly and Luke Millard departed from a chilly Canadian west coast for the highly contrasting deserts of Dakhla, Morocco, for the latest stop on the Qatar Airways GKA Kite-Surf World Tour.
It was only the start of the wave season, but West Point, Morocco, a frequent GKA host, did not disappoint, delivering three days of epic wave conditions.The Ocean Rodeo contingent rode their Crave HL-Series kites to great effect, tearing their way through the field and showcasing their ample waveriding skills.
“Contrast to the last few years of small surf and light wind, the Morocco GKA Kite-Surf World Tour had sweet conditions this year. West Point was head high and peeling. Most heats the competitors were powered on 8m and 10m kites with rides lasting over 1 minute,” shares Reece. On day one, we saw the start of the men's heat, and riders Reece and Luke's intuition led them to pick the right waves at the right time. Their surfing background and natural flair for reading the waves meant they were absolutely ripping up Westpoint!
But it was Frances Kelly who drew all the attention. Her start was reserved. "Starting at the bottom of the event ladder can be a little nerve-wracking, but it's also a great opportunity to build momentum!" she says. Methodically, she pulled in consistent scores, moving her way through the ladder. She had her work cut out for her, though, as the girls were on fire!
"I had great support from my teammates and am super happy I could put their feedback into action moving through rounds 3 and 4. Moving into the quarter-finals, my strategy was to put myself on the best waves and bigger sets that walled up on the inside to reach the most scoring potential,” she remembers.
“I tried to focus on staying in the critical section of the wave. I knew I had to throw everything into this heat up against Kesanie, the Brazilian powerhouse. She achieved one of the best event scores, but I managed my heat well and could adapt to the conditions,” she shares.
Her skill, combined with top-of-the-line Ocean Rodeo gear, made all the difference. “I've been absolutely loving the HL-Series Craves and felt super comfortable riding out the lulls in the wind,” she says. “Adapting to the conditions is crucial, and the Craves have really leveled up kiting.”
“Getting to the semis was huge for me,” she says. “I was up against Sweden's J.C. Edin, a super well-informed competitor and athlete, but sticking to my strategy and wave selection paid off.”
“Waiting on the beach after the semi-final heat for the final scores to drop was intense, and hearing my name through to the finals was the best feeling in the world," she says.
In the end, Frances secured a second-place finish and the title of Vice Champion against Capucine Delannoy. A fantastic start to her season! The men’s side of the competition was stacked with talent. Our own Luke made it to round five, and Reece made it through to the quarter-finals, before getting knocked out by Duotone’s Matchu Lopes.
While the sets didn’t always line up exactly how Reece wanted, he put up consistent scores. “I went into most of my heats wanting to shred the wave apart for the entire heat and try some new things I've been working on. All my heats ended up being on the slower side of the sets, and there were only a few opportunities to get scores on the board before the ocean went flat.”
All in all, it was a fantastic showing from our team. Thanks, Frances, Reece, and Luke, for all the hard work, and we can't wait to see more epic action from our Ocean Rodeo family.
The biggest event of the year in Big Air is fast approaching, and although he spends more time on the water than off it, we managed to pull Giel Vlugt aside for a few moments to find out how he’s preparing for the Red Bull King of the Air event in Cape Town…
Giel, what a year you've had so far! Tarifa Full Power Champion, Winner of the GKA Move of the Year and the big one... Male Rider of the Year! You've got a lot of fans out there; how does it feel to receive so much support in your career?
I mean, this year has been unbelievably special. It’s the year that all the hard work is really starting to pay off. And yes, I’ve absolutely gained some fans and that is still so special to me. I can’t believe how fast it’s going on one side and on the other I feel like I could push more and harder to achieve more!
Tarifa is a special place for you and where you say it all started. So tell us, how did you end up in Tarifa, and what were you doing there?
I started teaching kiteboarding in Tarifa as an internship, knowing absolutely nothing about kiting and Tarifa. I just picked it because it looked cool! Only when I arrived did I realize that kiteboarding was huge here and that I had arrived somewhere very special. So to be honest, I got crazy lucky!
When did you decide to focus on turning pro and did you ever have any doubts?
About two and a half years ago I decided to give it a shot and start training. I did have doubts but really only once. I remember seeing Janek Grzegorzewski train in Balneario in April 2020 and thinking “How will I ever even be close to this guy?” But instead of getting demotivated, I started working harder and exactly one year later I shared a final with Janek in Full Power 2021. I remember getting off the water and somebody telling me they weren’t sure if I won or Janek. That is still to this day one of the best compliments I have ever gotten, even though Janek beat me by 2 points, haha!
We've got to ask… As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
At first a professional football player, a goalkeeper to be exact. Then probably a professional tennis player. After that I went back to the goalkeeper dream, for a while, then a physical therapist, and when I decided I wanted to mix my life up completely I found kiteboarding.
Many Big Air kiters come from a freestyle competition background, but you went straight into Big Air. What was the reason for this?
I was in love with Big Air from the start and it was my biggest dream to be in the King of the Air one day. I personally didn’t like freestyle too much so I decided to focus on one thing only and skip freestyle. If people would see me attempt freestyle they would most probably be having a good laugh though!
Can you tell us about your training routine and what you do to ensure you're in the best shape possible?
I do a lot of gym work to make sure my body is ready and able to take hits. In order to progress in Big Air you need to be able to handle the big crashes. So I decided to be as ready as possible so I would never get crashes that are too serious. Which has worked, for now…
Any special tricks you’ll be pulling out of the bag at King of the Air?!
Absolutely! More than one! But I will not be sharing those with you, haha! I’ve got to keep some tricks up my sleeve. All I can say is, you can expect a lot of doubles and a lot of S-Loops!
There's no doubt about it, you've got some cajones! So how do you prepare mentally when learning a new trick and overcoming the nerves? (if you have any, that is!)
With Big Air, it’s all about taking the next step. Every trick you learn is scary at first. Some more than others but it is always scary. You have to accept you’re scared, prepare as well as you can and then simply go for it if you feel ready! I never try anything before I can visualize it and before I’m sure I know what to do.
The documentary '3 Days Well Sent' was filmed leading up to the 2021 King of the Air competition, following some downtime adventures before the event. Will you set aside time for any exploration before this year's big event?
Absolutely! I love a good adventure and I’m always ready and excited to explore new places and spots. So if you guys had a good time watching that one you can expect another one. Hopefully even better this time!
The Rise has been your weapon of choice until now.... Can you give us some insights into your current setup?
The Rise is still my favorite kite and my weapon of choice. For a twintip I love my Tumbler 138 on light and strong days and 135 on really strong to nuking days! I also ride a 46 and a 52cm pilot bar. The lines are usually 22 meters unless I want to get a better angle, then I like to change it down to 19.
Giel’s ultimate Big Air quiver is all off-the-shelf stock and available for everyone. Giel has perfectly demonstrated exactly what our gear is capable of the possibilities are limitless…
THE RISE A-SERIES
The once impossible has now been made possible due to the Rise, Big Air kitefine tuned to perform like no other Big Air kite on the market...
THE TUMBLER
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggressive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain complete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
THE PILOT 2.0
Totally redesigned, the Pilot Bar is a culmination of 20 years frontline trim design experience. We went all out and refined every component to deliver the cleanest, easiest to use frontline trim bar to date.
When he's not competing for the Kitesurf World Cup, Reece Myerscough becomes a creator of things. Whether it’s designing boards for Ocean Rodeo, building backyard CNC machines, or just carving innovative new lines on the water behind a kite… he’s out there, creating.
Wet Crow sees him drawing inspiration from the conditions he finds in his native Vancouver Island, where legendary Canadian filmmaker Nate Laverty trailed him over the course of 18 months, capturing Reece in some of the most awe-inspiring spots you'll find anywhere on the planet.
Enjoy the film, then read our exclusive, behind-the-scenes interviews with Reece and Nate below!
Reece, firstly, what does Wet Crow mean?
One of Nate’s friends came up with it after watching the video. I guess he saw a wet person in a black wetsuit flying through the air and thought it resembled a wet bird. A Wet Crow.
How long did it take to film? It looks like there are several sessions and seasons in there.
It took about two years to film Wet Crow. After the first couple sessions I ended up breaking my leg, which put everything on hold for about four months. After that I was out of town in the fall for competitions. Then Nate was out of town most of the winter. So it took a while before we were both in the same place again to finish filming. Because we filmed over such a long period, we ended up getting a really cool variety of sessions that really shows the diversity of conditions on Vancouver Island.
Whereabouts on the island was it filmed?
Wet Crow was all filmed on the northern part of Vancouver Island, in and around the Tofino area.
Tribute to the man that does everything double!
What a year so far! 1st at the BAKL Full Power event, 3rd at the Tarifa Big Air event (despite a couple of serious crashes), and now awarded not one but two titles at this year's Qatar Airways GKA Awards; Men's Move of the Year and the most sought after... Male Rider of the Year. Unstoppable!
Giel has taken the Big Air world by storm, going from kite instructor to one of the world's best in a remarkably short space of time. He claimed the first-ever legit double loop and we weren’t surprised when he was announced winner of this years ‘Best Move’ for his ballsy S Loop!
As an athlete he has pushed the boundaries like never before and drastically advanced the sport itself. The achievements he has made will go down in history and we’re super proud to continue supporting such a valued member of the kiting community.
Congratulations Giel – we seriously can't wait to see what the rest of 2022 holds for you.
GIEL'S GEAR
Ride like the RIDER OF THE YEAR!
Giel’s ultimate Big Air quiver is all off-the-shelf stock and available for everyone. Giel has perfectly demonstrated exactly what our gear is capable of; the possibilities are limitless…
THE RISE A-SERIES
The once impossible has now been made possible due to the Rise, fine tuned to perform like no other Big Air kite on the market...
THE TUMBLER
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggresive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain conplete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
"The Viking" doubles up at the GKA Awards
The kiteboarding equivalent to the Oscars took place on Saturday in the heart of Tarifa, and one man in particular shone through...
Ocean Rodeo team rider Giel Vlugt not only took home the Men’s Best Move of the Year Award (having been nominated twice!) for his unbelievably stylish S-Loop that lit up kiteboarding social media around the globe, but he also took home the biggest prize of the night, The Male Rider of the Year Award, for his huge efforts in pushing the sport of Big Air kiteboarding to the next level.
“Not only is Giel a truly tremendous athlete, but he is also a great representative of the sport, always showing up for everything with a big smile on his face! He has helped showcase the true radicalness of kitesurfing to the world and is the well-deserved winner of this award.”
– Global Kitesports Association
A double win for the man who pioneered the Double Loop.
Congratulations, Giel!
GIEL'S GEAR
THE RISE A-SERIES
The once impossible has now been made possible due to the Rise, fine tuned to perform like no other Big Air kite on the market...
THE TUMBLER
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggresive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain conplete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
GIEL GOES FULL POWER!
A TRUE BIG AIR CHAMPION ON AND OFF THE WATER
When the horn sounded to draw a line under a day of high octane action at the Full Power Big Air contest in Tarifa, it was clear that Giel Vlugt had set a whole new standard of riding at this year's event. Pulling off a repertoire of insane double kite loops and tricks that simply haven’t been attempted in competition before, his focus, finesse and accuracy left the audience (both on the beach and those following live on the BAKL YouTube channel) in little doubt who was going to be crowned the men’s winner that day…
Balneario in Tarifa is regarded as a world class kite spot to many, but it has an even more personal significance to Giel. As he told us during the event, “This one is really important to me. I’ll do whatever it takes. Especially here, it feels like this is where I learned the most, actually this is where I learned everything. I want it really bad.”
Innovation is at the heart of Ocean Rodeo, and we’re stoked to have a team who can take what we do and turn it into tangible wins at the top of the podium.
Congratulations, Giel!Congratulations, Giel!
"I chose to ride a 7m Rise because I can still get a decent height and perfrom my double loops. I had an 8m and 9m ready on the beach but I was just too excited to show the world all my double rotations and new tricks I've been working on. It feels amazing to have won, especially together with Zara. It's the one I wanted to win the most, as this is where it all started for me."
– Giel Vlugt
GIEL'S GEAR
THE RISEA-SERIES
The once impossible has now been made possible due to the Rise, fine tuned to perform like no other Big Air kite on the market...
THE TUMBLER
Specifically designed for BIG AIR, the Tumbler's aggresive shaping and flex technology allows you to maintain conplete control during the hottest take offs and landings.
The Committed
Our good friend Rodri appears in the latest issue of TheKiteMag! A total legend, Rodri is the face of our signature store in Tarifa, and also runs his own kite school, Kite Fun Tarifa. He also happens to be the husband of a certain Carla Herrera!"
BAKL Lords of Tram 2022
Wow, what a way to kick start the season! If this sets the level for the rest of the year we are in for one heck of a ride…
Lords of Tram hosted the first stop of the Big Air Kite League Tour in Barcarès, France and the seriously windy conditions allowed for some of the most impressive kiting to date. Brisk gusts of up to 45 knots swept riders to next level heights and the crowd watched the epic firework display of loops that were performed. Men and women from all over the world gathered to compete in the Big Air event and the conditions certainly prevailed; the wind was pumping!
The Rise A-Series is our dedicated Big Air kite and Giel's weapon of choice for competition. Tricky conditions gusting from 25-45 knots meant the 7m still gave Giel full catapult capabilities but he told us,
"picking the right moment to take off was key, but when I got it right it was extreme."
Team rider Giel Vlugt had already caused a global domino effect after landing the first-ever legit double kiteloop in February. He had set the bar to new heights and his competitors were eager to follow in his footsteps.
Giel performed nothing less than jaw-dropping tricks in his heats and took the stage in 2nd position, alongside Andrea Principi in 1st and fellow Dutchman Stijn Mul.
A few world firsts were landed in the competition, making this a truly exciting event and despite not taking the number one spot, Giel was introduced at the prize-giving as "having the best S-loop in the world. You are now a legend."
Giel said, "I'm stoked with my second place and super cool to see Stijn in third place, he's a good friend of mine and an absolute shredder. All in all the competition was a great success."
If you missed it over the weekend, be sure to check out the highlights here or head to our social media channels. Pro division - BARCARES TV #EP2
THE CREATORS - OCEAN RODEO & ALUULA
Ocean Rodeo features in the latest issue of TheKiteMag, covering two seriously hot topics right now, ALUULA and BIG AIR.
Delve into the possibilities that ALUULA has created for the brand with our founder, Richard Myerscough, and get the exclusive rundown from Giel Vlugt as he expands upon the world’s first-ever legit double kiteloop…
“So this is where it all comes down to the ALUULA; it made the impossible possible.”
Ben Sasi Going Big
What a start to the season! Ben Sasi has kicked the year off strong, taking first place in Israel’s annual Big Air competition with the unparalleled weapon of choice... the Rise A-Series.
We’re stoked to see riders representing our brand from across the globe and pushing Big Air boundaries. Our continued innovation reaches new heights and brings only more opportunities for anyone powered by Ocean Rodeo. Here’s a few words from
"What a dream come true! Being crowned Champion of the Porsche Winter Challenge has been a long journey for me. I have been waiting and dreaming for the moment to take the win.
“I’d like to thank Ocean Rodeo for the highest class equipment. I was honored to represent the brand and the quality and performance of the gear definitely played a significant role in my victory today!”
“I’d like to thank Ocean Rodeo for the highest class equipment. I was honored to represent the brand and the quality and performance of the gear definitely played a significant role in my victory today!”
Sixteen pro athletes competed in the competition and the level of riding was high; the trick list was insane! Boardoffs, kiteloops, high jumps, latebacks and boogie loops and the progression from the competitors was impressive.
In the first heat, the wind was around 24 knots and gusting over 30 at times. I was still warming up to the current conditions but felt in a much stronger position by the second heat and pulled off some of my best tricks. Super high megaloops and massive boogie loops and latebacks!
The final was super intense. The wind had dropped to around 20 knots and lots of the competitors changed kites but I stuck with my 10m A-Series Rise, Pilot Bar and Tumbler 135 x 42. The kite still retained so much power and even though the wind had dropped I still managed to get decent height on my megaloops.
My equipment definitely gave me an advantage over the competition and I am so grateful to start a new journey with Ocean Rodeo. Thank you for the opportunity to show the world what this gear can do for your progression - Ben
Three Days Well Sent. A Big Air Film.
After solely focusing on the Big Air contests in Cape Town for weeks, Ocean Rodeo teammates Giel Vlugt and Keh-Lung Su decompress by packing the essentials into the back of a truck and hitting the road in search of a new backdrop to that of the cloud-covered Table Mountain.
We follow their journey, from a small, isolated cove surrounded by towering mountains and ringed by an old train track, to the contrasting hive of activity of the local bathing pools, that offer perfect, butter-flat conditions, where the local children even step up to caddy for local boy Keh-Lung.
The final stop took them to ‘The Holy Water’, on the map for allegedly having briefly accommodated the largest bull shark ever recorded…
Day 1: The Mush
On day one we kited a small nook on the Southern Peninsula near Cape Point known as 'Glencairn'. It is a sketchy little beach with a railway in front of it which keeps the crowds at bay. The wind can be really good here and the backdrop here is second to none!
Day 2: The Forgotten Beaches
The session started off in the tidal pool which is right next to the informal settlements in Cape Town which makes for quite a culture shock. In the afternoon we drove up the isolated beach and sessioned an empty line-up deep in False bay near Macassar.
Day 2: The Forgotten Beaches
The session started off in the tidal pool which is right next to the informal settlements in Cape Town which makes for quite a culture shock. In the afternoon we drove up the isolated beach and sessioned an empty line-up deep in False bay near Macassar.
Day 3: The Holy Water
We hit the road up the East Coast to a place called 'Witsand' which is growing in popularity albeit the worlds largest recorded bull shark was caught and released back into this gigantic waterway. This lagoon is buttery flat in warmer waters with great wind.
Behind the scenes
Had you guys met each other before?
Giel: Yeah I’d heard a lot about Keh-Lung but we hadn't met properly until this year in Cape Town.
Keh-Lung: I’d met Giel a few times around the beach after he got to Cape Town, even at his place with the rest of his crew. But until this happened I hadn’t actually got to spend proper time with him.
Tell us a little about each of the locations in the film…
Keh-Lung: We scored the best of Africa on this shoot, let me tell you. Our first session on day one we hit a treacherous Big Air spot well known for its nuking winds and massive open ocean swell kickers. Riders love to send it there. Unfortunately, we got a bit skunked, but the spot was in a reserve so the landscape and scenery was beautiful. Later the first day, we sessioned an insane lesser known spot, the beach is kind of a nook in the mountains, probably about 150 meters wide. So a super small spot and fortunately there weren’t many guys out that day, so perfect for Giel and I. It has a train track virtually on the beach with the train passing every 10-15 minutes.
Giel: Yeah Glencairn is a truly incredible place to kite! I mean onshore wind with massive mountains in the background and a railway line basically touching the beach. Definitely not the safest place I've ever kited but one of the most special places for sure.
And day two?
Giel: On the second day, we started in a tidal pool somewhere in False Bay. I wasn't sure the locals would like us kiting in their swimming pool but Kyle (Cabano - videographer) had assured me it would be fine. It turned out to also be one of the most incredible places I had ever kited. The locals were cheering us on as we flew over and across their pool.
Keh-Lung: This was a first time session for me at this spot. Absolutely insane on the day we arrived, there were so many people swimming in and around the tidal pool, having an awesome summer beach day. We were a bit wary, but they were absolutely loving the show Giel and I were putting on. Giel even gave a few of the kids some piggy back rides while riding, ha!
After that we went for a session a few kilometers further on, a less popular Big Air spot, known for its super crazy cross shore winds and plentiful kickers. It has the most insane backdrop of the Overberg mountains. This specific beach is also only accessible via the beach so is always a fun drive to get to the spot. Gnarly winds though, with the choppiest landings that day.
And tell us about your final day…
Giel: Yeah on that last day we drove four hours to get to a spot just east from Cape Town. Normally a perfect training location but we were a bit unfortunate with the wind strength so I was riding a 12m Rise for that one.
Keh-Lung: This place is an insane, buttery flat spot with some super green and luscious scenery. Lots of people have been making the mission to this rivermouth this season with the wind being a bit wonky. Unfortunately that day the wind wasn’t as good as we were hoping for. It was a bit light, but it was still a noble quest. In the end we still scored an insane session with lots of other mates on the water… I think it was actually just what we needed after some big missions shooting in some gnarly winds. A nice lighter wind cool-off session with some mates was actually the perfect ending to our whole shoot.
Who did the driving?
Giel: Our camera guru Kyle did most of the driving since he knows all the secret spots and owns a 4x4…
Keh-Lung: Yeah Kyle was the tour guide. But I managed to take the ol’ Rav for a spin on the beach which was a good time.
Were there any funny stories that weren’t captured on film?
Giel: It was actually hard to do anything without Kyle capturing it on camera! If there were funny moments he was right on it…
Keh-Lung: Too many! But I think the best one was probably when I hid Giel’s harness from him, convincing him he left it at the first spot we sessioned in the morning. A few minutes of searching for it, he was calling all the guys at the last spot we hit to see if we’d left it there. He got really pissed, I had to confess quickly, I got pretty nervous for a second! Haha!
So what’s in the diary for the rest of the year that you’re most looking forward to?
Giel: 100% it’s the Red Bull King of the Air 2022 for me.
Keh-Lung: It must be the first GKA Big Air event in Spain at the end of June, which has a strapless discipline. Also, the GKA wave stop returning to Mauritius, that’s gonna be a big one for sure.
How do you feel to be a part of the Ocean Rodeo family right now?
Giel: The team is incredible. They often describe it as a small family and I definitely feel the same way about that! Communication is superb and we're all seamlessly working towards the same goal without any complaints or questions asked.
Keh-Lung: I feel so blessed and grateful, I think there isn’t a better time to be a part of a growing family/brand like Ocean Rodeo. Only up from here!
IT'S HAPPENED.
In case you missed it, Ocean Rodeo team rider Giel Vlugt just achieved a world first by landing the mythical Double Kiteloop. Long debated as to whether it was even achievable, Giel made it so on his ALUULA-powered Rise A-Series kite.
This marked the culmination of a truly awesome weekend for Giel, having also pulled off this mighty S-Loop in the same session.
Big Air kiteboarding just hit yet another milestone, one some had thought impossible... and we're stoked both Giel and the Rise were the ones to make it happen.
Wingfoil Winner
Mathis Ghio left no question who was the fastest of them all at the GWA Tarifa Wing Pro 2021.
On Thursday, Dec. 30, the 18-year-old rounded the last buoy in the final race of the GWA Wingfoil World Tour with an impressive lead at the head of the pack. The competition marked the last time this year that the world’s best hit the water together, making it the ultimate showdown.
“Our champion here in Tarifa, the racing number one, the fastest man across the world is here in the beautiful paradise making his way, all the way from France, I give you your champion, Mathis Ghio,” championship commentator Jo Ciastula said when crowning the new winner.
Light wind hindered the competition during the first few days. However, Mother Nature looked kindly on events during Day 4. By race time, 12 to 15 knots were blowing at Playa Chica. Ghio rode with his go-to 6m A-Series Glide.
“So good, so good!” was all Ghio could say as he came off the water.
The win certainly turned some heads. Ocean Rodeo’s A-Series Glides are making a name for themselves on the tour as being the lightest and stiffest wings on the market. For Ghio, those are the reasons the A-Series Glide has become his weapon of choice.
“For me, its main strength, without any doubts, is its stiffness. The wing is always perfectly in front of me and never twists. It allows me to accelerate at first contact with a gust, while other riders are losing seconds with a twisting wing, which accelerates more slowly,” Ghio said, after his earlier race in Dakhla.
Ocean Rodeo held demos throughout the GWA World Championships. It allowed riders to experience the very obvious difference between the ALUULA composite Glides and industry-standard wings.
“People are so surprised when they pick them up and feel how light they are. It’s something you really have to try for yourself and then you’ll understand why and how the ALUULA composite is shaping the future of this young sport,” Ocean Rodeo’s European Rep Jakob Alkil said, when asked about riders’ reactions during the demos.
Ghio will be celebrating his victory with his teammates tonight, and in style – Ocean Rodeo will be hosting the Championship’s afterparty at the Balneario Beach Club.
Welcome to our new dealer partner the Big Air Kite League!
We’re very excited to welcome the BAKL crew as our latest partner to be stocking Ocean Rodeo gear, and – most notably – the Rise A-Series kite, our cutting edge Big Air beast that’s turning heads from Cape Town to Cabarete.
With Ocean Rodeo team member Giel Vlugt sitting comfortably as one of the highest profile riders on the BAKL tour, we’re stoked that his weapon of choice is now available to buy through the Big Air Kite League’s online store, which you can find here.
And the team at BAKL haven’t held back on their feelings about the new Rise… Reviewing what’s under the hood, here’s what they had to say:
“It’s a dedicated big air kite that loops SUPER FAST! The 10m weighs in at only 2.4kg, which is 40-50% lighter than almost every other kite on the market. Not only is ALUULA lighter than industry-standard Dacron, but it’s also stronger. It’s exciting to think that Ocean Rodeo has managed to push the boundaries of performance without compromising on durability. It gives you that direct steering which you can expect from an Open-C kite.”
And, following up with their ‘loop report’ from their test team:
“Giel loops the 12 with ease. That’s really saying something. We've put the kites in the hands of mere muggles and they were able to safely loop the 11m at significant heights. This is where we feel that the Rise excels. Since you are able to loop bigger sizes in lighter winds, it means that intermediate riders can push their limits more safely and pro riders can push the limits of modern big air too!”
We’re stoked that our friends at the BAKL love this kite as much as we do, recognising its emergence as a top-end contender in the Big Air sphere.
We’ll round off with their ‘Quality Report’ on the Rise, and their focus on the world famous new composite that puts the A in A-Series…
“The ALUULA material has 6 times the tensile strength of Dacron, the traditional leading edge material. You can feel how sturdy the material is when you get your hands on it. We've tried to tear it, but we honestly can't. The canopy is made from industry-standard Teijin D2, so you can expect the same lifespan as you get out of most modern kites. Altogether, the kite is beautifully built and well-constructed."
Find more information right here.
We're delighted to sponsor the GWA World Championship 2021 in Tarifa!
This final stop will see the crowning of the World Champions of the GWA Wingfoil World Tour as the very best come together for one last time in 2021 for the ultimate wing showdown in one of Europe’s optimum wingfoiling locations.
Don’t just spectate… Join us at the beach and take to the water with our latest gear!
Are you ready to experience the ALUULA effect?
We’re excited to give you the opportunity to test our next-level performance A-Series and HL-Series Glide wings which we will have readily available for taster sessions during the event. As you take to the water, you’ll experience the very obvious difference between the Glide and industry-standard wings, as the latest cutting-edge materials from ALUULA allow for a lighter, stiffer, stronger and more responsive ride.
Teaming up with our friends at Levitaz ensures the perfect combination when out on the water. Their new foil boards complement our Glide wings just right… Take it from our team riders Mathis Ghio and Carla Herrera Oria, who ride this exact set-up!
For all the kiters amongst you, choose from our range of kites and bars to best suit your riding style, including the very latest 2022 Roam and Flite A-Series kites. Should you wish to take to the (big!) air however, we have Giel Vlugt’s ultimate weapon available: the Rise A-Series.
The Rise has illuminated the Big Air kite scene recently, not least at the recent Red Bull King of the Air event in Cape Town – an event in which team rider Giel Vlugt used the Rise to take some serious scalps! Watch his phenomenal first-ever performance at KOTA in his recent documentary, ALL IN.
Mathis Ghio’s star is rising as he quickly moves up the rankings in the GWA Wingfoil World Cup, most recently achieving a stunning 2nd place in Dakhla, Morocco.
We’ll soon see him in action in Tarifa at the GWA Wing Pro Championships as he continues his campaign to be the world’s best. And while he’s in town, Mathis will be offering exclusive, next-level one-to-one wingfoiling tuition, with a chance to test his wing setup, including the Glide A-Series and HL-Series ALUULA-infused wings. We’re sure he will be in high demand, so make sure to reach out to one of our team at the beach to secure your spot.
Drop by our new Ocean Rodeo flagship store in Tarifa, where our team will be happy to show you around and give you information on our in-store events and promotions!
You’ll also find us on the beach at Balneario, close to the harbour and old town, alongside the GWA World Championship event tent. Look for our Ocean Rodeo tent and battle flags… you won’t miss us!
Mathis Ghio, Carla Herrera Oria and the team will be on hand to answer any questions you might have, and get you riding our gear like a pro…
We can’t wait to see you there!
Follow our Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates.
Giel Vlugt dared to kill a king on his way to claim fourth-place at his Redbull King of the Air (KOTA) debut.
The rookie’s presence was quickly felt by some of the biggest names at the 9th edition of the world’s renowned big air competition in Cape Town, South Africa, last weekend. The event saw 18 of the sport’s top heavy weights go head-to-head. Having missed out on a position to advance to Round 3 on Day One, the 26-year-old Dutchman came back with a vengeance on Day Two. In his first heat, Vlugt claimed a solid victory over KOTA veteran and 4x British Champion, Lewis Crathern.
“It was absolutely amazing” Vlugt said after the heat. “Really happy to land my tricks, be a bit more calm, pick the right kickers and I am ready for the next one, let’s go!”
And he was. His next win took out one of the greatest legions in kiteboarding, 5x World Champion and 2x KOTA Champion, Aaron Hadlow. KOTA commentators dubbed the victory the “biggest, shock upset” of the 2021 event. Giel opened the heat with big double rotations. He was in complete control throughout his time on the water.
“How dare he kill the king,” Colin Colin Carroll of Kitesurf365 Podcast taunted.
Vlugt was just happy to be in a heat with such a kiteboarding legend as Hadlow.
“This is insane, this is way more than a dream come true,” he said.
The event also marked Ocean Rodeo’s first time flying over Kite Beach in the competition. Vlugt’s quiver included a stock Pilot 2.0 bar and twintip Tumbler, a board designed by fellow Ocean Rodeo team rider Reece Myerscough specifically for big air riding. Vlugt flew a 10m big air A-Series Rise. The new kite is a result of a partnership between Ocean Rodeo and ALUULA Composites - an innovative, lightweight product that is reshaping the kiteboarding industry.
“It just performs so go when it is full of power,” Vlugt said of the Rise, noting the kite was perfect for the KOTA.
In the semi-finals, Vlugt was up against fellow Dutchman, Stig Hoefnagel. It was a close battle, with Hoefnagel squeaking through to the finals with a 1.44 point lead over Vlugt.
The talent seen at this year’s KOTA has taken kiteboarding to the next level, the event’s organizers noted. This year, there were six fresh faces at KOTA. Up-and-coming riders, like Vlugt, and new technology in the sport is making way for bigger, more technical tricks. Ocean Rodeo is proud to be a part of this movement.
“Fourth place for me, I am super stoked. Would of course loved to have been on the podium, but it was absolutely epic. Thanks everyone for the support,” he said. “I’ll see you next time, coming back even stronger.”
Behind the Rise with CEO Richard Myerscough
What are the main benefits of the Rise over other Big Air kites?
Firstly, there’s a massive 40 to 50% weight reduction over competing Big Air 5 strut kites. The weight reduction on a 10m versus competitors kites is in the 2kg range! The ALUULA composite is also stiffer than Dacron. This gives more response to bar input for truly instant turning and sheeting. Meanwhile, the ALUULA seams are designed for a higher PSI, allowing riders to tune the airframe based on the wind conditions.
The Rise is a high aspect open C shape. The high aspect delivers the lift, while the open C shape results in fast turning and sheeting control. This combination, in addition to the ultra-light and stiff airframe, allows larger kites in the 12m range to become serious kite loop machines, opening more radical riding in lighter conditions. The Rise can accelerate out of the bottom arc of a kite loop faster than any kite on the market and in all wind strengths.
What made you decide to design a kite specifically for Big Air?
Our wave kite, the Roam, was the first kite to incorporate ALUULA into its airframe. Originally made with Dacron, the Roam was never a great jumping kite and was never intended to be one. But once it was reworked with an ALUULA airframe, it was transformed into a super fun jumping kite! The weight savings and the ultra-responsive airframe was a massive boost to all aspects of kite performance, including jumping. It was at this moment we knew we had to build a dedicated Big Air kite using ALUULA.
How much effect does ALUULA have on the product when it comes to the performance and design process?
To take full advantage of ALUULA requires a complete redesign versus traditional Dacron framed designs. ALUULA has allowed our design team to move beyond the performance constraints of Dacron in the airframe. In terms of weight, stiffness, and seam strength, ALUULA has opened a new door and an intensely exciting future for kite design. With ALUULA's stiffness and strength, we are refining tube diameters, arcs and shapes that we simply couldn’t support in the past with Dacron. The airframes have been refined and the diameter significantly reduced, and the stronger seams allow the luxury of using higher inflation pressures, and a higher PSI is a great feature that can be used to tune the kite’s performance depending on the conditions.
Were there any challenges in the design that had to be faced head-on?
The high performance, high aspect open C arc kite with optimised diameters is something very new and exciting to develop. To make a kite shape like this work in the past it would have required a very thick Dacron leading edge tube, which would have been very heavy with lots of drag.
Finally, describe to us what it’s like to ride from your perspective...
My first impression under the Rise was insane, having so much power on tap yet with such smooth and precise handling. Some of my best and loftiest jumps have been in moderate winds on the Rise 12m prototype… scaring myself in 20 knots! The Rise is easy to fly and teases you to throw all you have into your first jump, which may well turn into an “Oh sh*t” moment as it rips you skyward far beyond what you expected! The Rise is quite simply a blast and has brought me back to twin-tip riding after a 10-year hiatus to wave riding...
Anna Strelchenko - Kamchatka, Russia
How did you get into kiting?
I learnt about kites a long time ago, back in 2007, when I lived in Vladivostok. A close friend of mine was kiteboarding and often took me to the kite spot to take pictures of him.
Five years ago, I moved to Kamchatka. Just a couple weeks after moving there I saw some guys snowkiting. For a few years I was their photographer, but then I wanted to learn how to kite as well.
Where is your favourite spot to kiteboard?
Of course Kamchatka! Yes, it's quite cold here and even in summer you can find snow, but there are beautiful views - the amazing vast ocean with volcanoes in the backdrop. Every summer we go for a ride in the caldera of Gorely Volcano. There, at 1,000 meters above sea level, it’s an ice lake. It is an amazing place! In mid-July you can snowkite on the snow and then go kiteboarding on the water. But better in a drysuit though, as the water is icy!
What has the sport added into your life?
In 2016, I was diagnosed with cancer. My treatment spanned a long time and the doctor advised me to swim in order to restore mobility to my arm. When I tried kiteboarding for the first time there was a lot of swimming involved. In Kamchatka there are no shallow water kiteboarding spots, so all of my training took place in deep water. In the beginning it was very difficult for me. Now I really enjoy being able to ride the waves with the wind.
Kiteboarding for me is a mix of adrenaline, excitement, physical activity and fun. And it's a great way to get my mind off of life's worries, hospital and treatments. Sometimes I don't feel good, but I try not to miss out on good wind and enjoy my life in the here and now. Kiteboarding helps me with this a lot.
What advice would you give to women entering the sport?
Don't be afraid! Don't be afraid to take up such an extreme sport. Don't be afraid to try something new and interesting. Fear and insecurity are a great hindrance to progress. I myself am afraid of a lot of things - the height, deep water and high speed. But gradually I fought my fears.
Do you have one kite adventure that stands out for you?
All the sessions with Vovan Voronov are very memorable. He loves extremes and unusual places to ride. The most memorable adventure this year was a trip for my birthday in the caldera of the Gorely volcano. Our truck was packed with Ocean Rodeo gear. We unfortunately did not catch much snow and ice there, but there was a very good wind and nice company. I was happy to celebrate my birthday in such a beautiful place!
What's your ultimate goal when it comes to kiting?
I have a lot of plans! I want to learn how to surf and wingfoil. Ocean Rodeo has some of the best lightweight kites for wave riding and I am really excited to see their wing, the Glide. I also like taking photographs of kiters in all the beautiful spots around Kamchatka, so that people around the world can see the amazing locations we have here for kiting.
Mathis Ghio Claims Victory at National Race Championships
There’s a new surf-race king in France, after Mathis Ghio claimed first place at the National GWA Race Championship. Last weekend, Sept. 18 - 19, the 18-year-old faced the challenging wind conditions at Saint Pierre la Mer to claim top spot at the wingfoil nationals. The wind range sat between 20 to 30 knots making the choice of wing tricky, Ghio notes.
“I was using a very small foil, the 600 aspect from Levitaz, and the 5m A-Series Glide,” he says. “This gear permits me to be powerful at any time and to accelerate a lot in the big gusts.”
One of his proudest moments came without a medal as Ghio smashed his previous speed record foiling at solid 29.2 knots.
“I love the Glide, and especially the A-Series. Its stiffness gives me a lot of power anytime. For me, the ALUULA is a revolution in wingfoiling,” Ghio says. “The whole wing is pumped at 12PSI, so it’s never deformed, no matter the conditions.”
The former youth windsurf world champion is now rocketing up the global rankings. When it comes to wingfoiling, Ghio says, “I really prefer races because I have been racing since I was 9-years-old. I have a lot of experience in races, from the stress to the starts to foil control. It helps me to perform during race events.”
He’s looking forward to the next National GWA event in October, keep an eye out for him at La Rochelle from Oct 1 - 3rd.
3x Nominations for Ocean Rodeo at the AWSI Awards
Kiteboarding Brand of the Year
A big thank you to everyone who has come along to see us at Hood River, Oregon for the AWSI Board Sports Expo! Our loyal brand ambassadors and local legends Pete Wright and John Bellecera were the hosts at the Ocean Rodeo stand, exhibiting the latest A-Series kites and our first ever ALUULA Glide wings! Be sure to check out the new lineup here.
Also, a massive thank you to the ASWI for an awesome event as per usual, and we’re super proud to have received these three nominations.
Don’t miss our riders in action and keep up to date with the latest news here
Over a year has passed since the last GKA Kitesurf World Cup and this month we saw some of the best freestyle and wave riders come together to battle it out in the cold, rough and windy conditions that the North Sea is so renowned for. And it didn’t disappoint!
We were so stoked to have our team rider Reece Myerscough competing all the way from Canada. Arriving in a camper-van stacked with kite gear, and armed with his favourite Jester directional board, 10m HL Crave and most not forgetting his trusty caddy Andrew Irwin, Reece set down on the island Sylt in preparation for the games to begin.
A committed audience lined the shoreline on day one, armed with cameras and rain jackets as the morning kicked off with the men’s first heat. A blustery 25-30 knots and rugged sea state made for tricky conditions, but Reece breezed through, winning his first heat hands down.
In total, the men's competition had 26 entrants. The competition started with x2 10-minute heats, judged separately between freestyle and wave riding, giving the riders a chance to roll out their diverse skills on the water.
The sky was busy with action, with double front rolls, huge kite loops, front roll board offs and plenty of crashes too. A blow to the hand from his board, and a suspected broken finger didn’t stop Reece from continuing to smash it out on the water as he comfortably confirmed his spot in the semi-finals thanks to painkillers and surgical tape.
It was an early start for the guys the following day, as the judges were keen to make the most of the conditions. The waves were bigger and cleaner, making it the perfect weather to battle it out for the number one spot.
The competition was stiff, as Reece faced x3 World Champion Airton Cozzolino, Brazilian shredder, Pedro Matos and Aussie James Carew.
Once again, the beach filled with spectators to watch in awe at the undeniable talent and jaw-dropping tricks that the competitors pulled off. After two days of non-stop action, James Carew and Capucine Delannoy have been crowned winners of the GKA Kite-Surf World Cup.
Reece's laid-back, chilled attitude shone through on and off the water, making everything he did look smooth and effortless, earning himself a fantastic 4th place overall.
Well done Reece, you smashed it!
Click on the link to watch the epic footage from Sylt:
https://www.gkakiteworldtour.com/events/gka-kite-surf-world-cup-germany-2021/
Today we are stoked to announce that rising Big Air superstar Giel Vlugt has joined the Ocean Rodeo family!
And he couldn't have come to us at a more exciting time, as we prepare to unleash the power of ALUULA Composites into our new, Big Air focused kite range...
Matching up Giel’s creative riding style with the new performance levels that ALUULA’s composite kite technologies offer, we are confident this collaboration will lead to new Big Air performance levels, showcased by this highly focused and talented rider.
Giel will be working closely with the Ocean Rodeo design team to ensure he is well prepared to take on all the major Big Air kiteboarding stops around the globe, as he zeroes in on the main event... the Red Bull King of the Air.
Age: 26
Nationality: Dutch
Discipline: Big Air
Favourite Spot: Balneario, Tarifa
Other Hobbies: Skiing, snowboarding, playing music, gym, tennis, basketball
What first made you gravitate towards kiting?
Seeing people fly for the first time definitely did something to me! The way people soar through the air so high and controlled seemed to me like the closest thing you’ll ever get to flying. Also, I love being outdoors and being active, so this definitely made an impact straight away!
Growing up, what made you take an interest in the water?
My whole family is made out of sailors and water sports enthusiasts. So I was in and around water from a young age.
Do you have anyone that inspires you?
Absolutely! Loads of people if I’m honest. When I started it was definitely Ruben Lenten, Steven Akkersdijk, Kevin Langeree and Nick Jacobsen. As the sport evolved it is impossible to look past Liam Whaley, Janek Grzegorzewski and Edgar Ulrich.
What is one kiting trick you really want to nail?
I’d love to be able to do Kung Fu passes even though I’m not a huge freestyle fan.
What would your dream kiteboarding trip look like?
Pick-up trucks, good friends, unknown spots and incredible, untouched nature everywhere. And last but not least strong wind! Anything above 25-30 knots will put a huge smile on my face. I’m not the lightest rider so I need pretty hectic conditions, haha!
How has kiting changed or shaped your life?
Well right now it’s the only thing I can think of. I fall asleep to kiting and I wake up to it! And it has been amazing to live the life of an athlete. To workout everyday, working on your body, redefining limits and changing your way of life to be as fit as possible has been amazing to me.
What are your ultimate goals?
Win Big Air competitions around the globe, and especially the Red Bull King of the Air.
What gear are you using and what do you love about it?
I love the low end of the new Big Air A-Series kites that Ocean Rodeo are releasing soon, and I’m crazy about the high end of the HL-Series Crave kites! They make the perfect combination! Also the Poptart has been incredible right off the bat. It feels indestructible and I love the weight of it! Strong and light, the perfect combination for me.
Tell us how you feel being part of the Ocean Rodeo family?
It’s incredibly exciting. Everyone at the brand is so stoked about their gear and are inspiring me to ride harder and to push the limits of what is achievable with Big Air.
Check out Giel's interview with Kitesurf 365
What's your role within Ocean Rodeo?
I am a passionately obsessed kitesurfer and lucky enough to be responsible for Ocean Rodeo in Europe where my key objective is to nurture and develop our quality dealer network and grow the brand awareness of Ocean Rodeo and ALUULA in Europe. My personal objective is to beat my 15m high jump by at least two additional meters this year… and on the business front, I want to see a minimum of 5% of the kites on the water having the same ALUULA advantages as me… anything else surely would be unfair competition?!
How did the first introduction of ALUULA go down in the Ocean Rodeo dealer community? Did any jaws drop?
2020 exceeded even our wildest expectations to customer and dealer demand for Ocean Rodeo kites powered by ALUULA. It was amazing.
What has been the general consensus from dealers now they’ve had time to garner customer feedback from sales of the A-Series kites?
It’s quite simply the biggest innovation in the kite business since the Quick Release, and this is only the beginning of what we have in store.
How did you first come upon the ALUULA material, and what’s been the easiest selling point
with the ALUULA-powered kites, from a sales point-of-view?
I am madly obsessed with kitesurfing and first heard about the “almost magical” ALUULA in 2020, and later realised it was from Ocean Rodeo. I couldn’t understand why I hadn’t seen more Ocean Rodeo and ALUULA kites around in Europe, and reached out to Ocean Rodeo in Canada. I ended up joining them and haven’t looked back since!
The amazing speed and responsiveness and the huge wind-range of the ALUULA A-Series kites is what springs to mind immediately as a selling point. Typically, I can hit the water with a 12m A-Series kite when the others are overpowered on their 8, 9s and 10s, and then I have more power and air-time in my jumps than everyone else. Equally, I can be out in the lightest of summer breezes when the other kites are dropping from the sky… and then my Flite A-Series 14.5 ALUULA kite just hangs up there. Full control of the kite both at the high-end and very low-end of the wind range.