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Mathis Ghio soared to first place at the Freestyle Cup in Cavalaire, France, showcasing incredible speed and control. Riding his ALUULA-powered A-Series Glide, Mathis flew through gusty offshore winds reaching nearly 30 knots. Known for his strategic racing and technical skill, he also impressed with clean freestyle tricks including a backflip and 720 spin. The event was a key preparation for his upcoming GWA competition in Taiba, Brazil, further cementing his reputation as a dominant force in wingfoil racing.

In this exclusive interview, Big Air champion Giel Vlugt opens up about his rapid rise to Big Air stardom, intense training, and passion for pushing limits. From his start in Tarifa to aiming for new tricks at King of the Air, Giel reveals how he balances fear with focus and the gear that powers his performance.

Giel Vlugt has taken the Big Air kiteboarding world by storm in 2022, securing multiple podium finishes including 1st at BAKL Full Power and 3rd at Tarifa Big Air. He made history with the first-ever legit double loop and earned prestigious Qatar Airways GKA Awards for both Male Rider of the Year and Men's Move of the Year. Giel’s relentless progression and fearless riding continue to push the sport's boundaries, inspiring riders worldwide. Explore the gear that powers his success and get ready for more thrilling moments from this extraordinary athlete.

At the prestigious Qatar Airways GKA Awards in Tarifa, Ocean Rodeo team rider Giel Vlugt shone brightly, securing both the Men’s Best Move of the Year and Male Rider of the Year awards. Celebrated for his stylish and pioneering S-Loop—an achievement that captivated kiteboarding fans worldwide—Giel continues to push the boundaries of Big Air kiteboarding.  Discover the gear that empowers Giel’s performance and join us in congratulating this remarkable athlete.

At the Full Power Big Air contest in Tarifa, Giel Vlugt set a new benchmark with jaw-dropping double kite loops and tricks never before seen in competition. His focus, precision, and daring style left no doubt as he claimed the men’s winner title. Tarifa holds special meaning for Giel, marking the place where he learned everything about kiteboarding. Riding his 7m Rise kite to perform spectacular double loops, Giel’s win is a testament to his relentless dedication and Ocean Rodeo’s cutting-edge gear. This victory is a landmark moment in his career and the sport’s evolution.

Rodri is featured in the latest issue of TheKiteMag as “The Committed”—a total legend who is the face of Ocean Rodeo’s signature store in Tarifa and the owner of Kite Fun Tarifa. Rodri’s passion keeps him deeply involved in every aspect of the sport, from teaching and riding to designing gear and judging competitions. He’s also married to world champion Carla Herrera, making them a true power couple in the kite community. If you’re in Tarifa, Rodri is the go-to person for expert advice, coaching, and genuine stoke on and off the water.

The BAKL Lords of Tram 2022 kicked off in Barcarès, France, with strong winds up to 45 knots delivering breathtaking Big Air kiteboarding. Giel Vlugt impressed with his legendary S-loop, finishing second and earning praise as a true legend. The event featured world-class riders pushing their limits in epic conditions, setting a thrilling tone for the season ahead.

Ben Sasi started his season with a stunning victory at Israel’s annual Big Air competition, powered by Ocean Rodeo’s Rise A-Series kite. Facing strong winds and fierce competition, Ben executed high megaloops, boogie loops, and latebacks, impressing everyone with his skill. Despite fluctuating wind conditions, his choice of trusted gear helped him maintain height and power, securing a memorable win. Ben credits Ocean Rodeo's equipment for his success and looks forward to pushing the limits of Big Air kiteboarding even further.

Ocean Rodeo teammates Giel Vlugt and Keh-Lung Su share a trip through some of South Africa's most spectacular kiteboarding spots. Over three days, they faced fierce winds and stunning landscapes, from the challenging Big Air spots at Glencairn to a bustling tidal pool in False Bay, and finally a serene rivermouth east of Cape Town. See the film. 

Ocean Rodeo team rider Giel Vlugt 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.