Of course, this statement makes no sense because kite surfing is a super diverse sport. Kitesurfing offers something for everyone and it is all about having fun. Anyway, I have the ambition and the megaloop feels like a kind of milestone. As for a runner who has been running for 20 years and has never run a marathon. At some point it has to happen for many. In this kitesurf blog I describe my personal struggle with the megaloop for kite surfers. I share it, because maybe you have the same and you recognize yourself in this blog. Or maybe you even have some practical tips for me. Very gladly.
Kitesurfing in the storm
I was at sea during the aftermath of spring storm Evert (unofficial name). I think I can call myself a storm rider because I like to pack them. I see them as the icing on the cake. However, I immediately throw in a thick disclaimer. Not that I don't recommend it to anyone. On the contrary. But kite surfing in a storm is not for everyone. Even many very experienced kite surfers get their noses for it. The wind is often not stable, the sea very turbulent, the kite smaller and therefore much faster ... In case of a mistake, risks increase quickly and there is a good chance that you will be punished mercilessly. Okay, enough preaching. Now to my actual point.
Recently I received a compliment. A kite surfer indicated that he hopes to become as good as me one day. But what those young boys do, I just call them, is different. It's next level!
Kite surfers with a different level of skill
I love to be at sea during storms. The last two years, however, I have been really enjoying other talented kite surfers at those moments. The level of some of them is so high that I have the feeling that I am surrounded by water King of the Air worthy kite surfers. I ride my legs, do my tricks, go really high and even run a kiteloop every now and then.
I therefore give them all the space on the water. It is a pleasure to be on the water with them. Really enjoy! This time I was in good company and through, among other things Bram Sanstra, Edwin Mabelis, Matthew de Jonge my theme revived completely.
If you like it, do it! Or not?
So this. I am vulnerable for a moment, but I hope to get a little coaching from you in the comments or on facebook. These are the questions I ask myself.
- Why don't I let up a kite 2 or 3 meters bigger, just like those guys? I stand with my 6 meters and she with 8 or 9 meters?
- Why don't I lean harder to go even higher?
- Why not buy a smaller kiteboard for the high winds?
- Why don't I just pull that megaloop?
- Why do I often put on my seat harness during storm sessions?
Why is it?
It is my fault. That's for sure. I don't like to blame others, circumstances or material for things anyway. I consider the equipment that I sail as the best kitesurfing equipment available. I'm in awe of the sea, the wind and don't blame it either.
My conclusion is that I have become a bit shy over the years.
The well-known story of 40+, children, faced a few hard crashes, had to be picked up a few times from the water, in 20+ years kiting experienced some nasty things up close, not always being able to stand on the water when the wind is blowing and maybe just a little less talent. They are also not jumps that you can build.
100% commitment is required for a megaloop. Once deployed, you cannot go back.
It seems I am no longer willing to take a risk or I now see more risk.
Megaloop ambition is high
That's the other side of the coin. I have the drive to make them and have been charging for them for a while. This whole piece must have seemed pathetic, but now completely. Yet the megaloop is about to come.
Do you recognize my reluctance and have you overcome this or cracked the same ambition and some tips for me. Let me know.
All completely recognizable, I sometimes run a loop building both downloop and mega loop. I certainly think there is a little bit of build-up prior to the mega loop. Of course I can send you my entire contribution.
Dared and down to the water 😉
Gretel Mike
Thank you Mike. I would say 1. edged hard and wanted to go as high as possible. 2. Then just before you are at your highest point of the jump, outline the kite in the opposite direction of your sailing direction. 3. For a megaloop do not pull too hard so that the kite goes underneath. 4. As soon as the kite comes out of the barrel, move away from you so that you pass under the kite and you cannot enter a stable. 5. You can also run a boogie loop. 6. Landing slightly downwind, not wanting to cross straight away.