PRYDE GROUP UK

Christian Harris

How did you get into Kitesurfing?

Having spent nearly six years living and windsurfing in windy Venezuela, the flame for windsurfing was weakening. The guys and girls, now on 4 line kites looked like they were having far too much fun, so it was a new way to enjoy my last few months on the water before tucking my shirt in and coming back to the UK.

 

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

It is possibly the most addictive sport I’ve ever tried. The learning curve is fantastic! To learn a new freestyle move in windsurfing took a long time, so you had to spend your life on the water. With kitesurfing you can do it part time and once the stabilizers are off, as long as you want to, you just keep learning. Also traveling around with a compact kite bag beats schlepping around with mountains of kit. And if that wasn’t enough, here in the UK you get so many kiteable days, that just wouldn’t rock my boat on a windsurfer, as you need so much less wind to have a truly fantastic time – brilliant.


Biggest achievement to date?:

Prep School diving champion! Seriously though, as a coach, having the opportunity to help people get the most out of their passion is phenomenally rewarding. Every time a guest on one of our clinics achieves something we live that moment too. It’s priceless. Also we’re now working with the BKSA on developing the youth training scheme, and while working with all the kids you feel their dynamic energy and enthusiasm. It is truly infectious and quite special.

Favorite Kitesurfing Spot?:

Anywhere with friends is a guaranteed smile. For flat water heaven Coche when it’s not too busy is great. La Palme in the south of France in a south easterly has the added bonus of great food and wine. At home Portland is a very occasional treat.
For out and out fun, Cape Verde rules. It’s not particularly cheap and gastronomically it leaves an awful lot to be desired. But the shear diversity of kiting spots from stunt ramps to world-class waves is amazing. It’s one big playground.

Favorite manoeuver?:

Love anything to blind, or a vaguely powered pass move, even some big gay air, but at the moment anything that leaves me in one peace….

Favorite Kitesurfing Moment?:

Every time I land something new I scream with pure joy. Also I’ve been lucky enough to share some amazing spots at the best of times with Karine, sunsets, sunrises and big moons. Having a lagoon in the desert all to our selves for 3 days was definitely a highlight.

 
How do you keep fit and healthy?:

5 a day, I’m working on it. Now that I’m no longer 20 and spend long periods of time off the water I’ve started working out a bit, but nothing beats playing rugby on the beach, styling with a Frisbee or trying to surf.

 
Plans for 2009!

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. If the body holds out this year will be “year of the kite” and I intend to get some serious water hours in.  Be good to get the house finished too!