PRYDE GROUP UK

Karine Nativel

When did you start Kitesurfing:

I started kitesurfing back in 200

How did you get into Kitesurfing?

Having watched, for over a year, some of the kitesurfing pioneers in Margarita swimming in every night, I decided it was not a sport for me. But as a French proverb says “only idiots never change their minds”. I saw the light once these avid kiters started jumping as high as the palm trees.

What is it about Kitesurfing that’s got you hooked?:

Gosh, there must be about one thousand and one reasons to be hooked. It’s so much fun and is highly achievable. It’s a wonderful way to discover new places. You can completely loose yourself out on the water, whether it’s because you’re always learning, you’re enjoying the view, or laughing at your own or a friend’s wipe-outs. It feels very liberating because you are walking on water, there is nothing in your way, no sail, no mast.

What's your biggest achievement to date?:

Getting friendly with a puffer fish! Always trying to push myself on the water, so each thing learnt is worthy.  On the coaching side of kiting, every time people learn something new, smile, scream and generally enjoy themselves, I feel a huge sense of achievement.

Favorite Kitesurfing Spot:

Somewhere between the Pacific and the Indian Oceans. Admittedly that hardly narrows it down but there isn’t just one. The waves in Cape Verde are memorable, the flat water of Coche is inspirational, the amazing colours of the Red Sea blow your mind. The mountainous backdrop in the South of France makes me feel at home! But probably nothing can beat a perfect evening session with the sun going down in my home town, Poole.

Favorite manoeuver:

Anything to blind

Favorite Kitesurfing Moment:

Going from perfect spot to perfect spot on a beautiful Turkish ketch, hosted by Philou, his great cook and the amazing crew. Words can barely describe it.

How do you keep fit and healthy:

The French paradox, must be the food and le vin rouge.

Plans for 2008:

Coaching wise we’ll have a new and full calendar of kite clinics, as we’re now working with Luke at Kitesurfkings for our holidays. Looking forward to another year of BKSA youth training and the Cabrinha Empire Youth Scheme.  Keep evolving  the technique section in iksurfmag.com.

Carry on having fun on / off  the water at home, when traveling, with our guests and carry on learning.