Issue #63 - Out Now!

GENERATIONS

In issue #63 we look at the new wave of riding talent coming through the kiteboarding ranks. '18 Under 18' features profiles on some of the most naturally gifted raw talent that has already, or that we reckon are about to, break through over the coming seasons.

Of course we've had new generations push their way through before. Hadlow, Lenten and Langeree elbowed their way into the scene, eventually nudging the likes of Shinn, Vari and Herraiz to the sidelines eight years ago. While Youri Zoon and Alex Pastor are dominant in freestyle at the moment, and although the groms have a long way to go, numbers 1 and 2 in the world would be wise to keep half an eye over their shoulders. We profiled Alex Pastor back in issue #59 and last month KW editor Jim sat down with Youri Zoon in Cape Town to pick the brains of the man who has used his command of the most powerful moves in kiteboarding to secure two World Championships.

Meanwhile, KW staff photographer and seasoned North Shore surf/kite photo veteran John Bilderback has been monitoring the movements of Keahi de Aboitiz, Reo Stevens and Moona Whyte in their relentless assault on a progressive surfing style; this season at one of the most hostile wave set-ups in the world. He analyses the current surf generation's talent with some incredibly heavy photo action.

We take a look at what it takes to be a pro rider these days and also talk to Roberto Ricci, the head of RRD who takes advantage of all the modern work practices available to ship virtually his entire design, office and riding team to South Africa for the European winter. And why not?

On top of that there's another stack of 2013 gear reviews, top turn wave riding tips, pointers to improver your pop and back roll technique, learning in the Cayman Islands and the usual excellent columns from Mark Shinn, Aaron Hadlow and Dr Jason Gallate who, this issue, explains that we've been destined to kite since we developed opposable thumbs!

There you go, we told you Kiteworld goes deeper!


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The Current Issue is #63