Mauritius 2007

At the time this was the best kitesurfing trip I had ever done.   It was a convergence of sponsored riders for Globe Kites to make photos, test new gear, meet, greet and kitesurf.  This was the trip that initiated me to Mauritius and the awesome potential of Le Morne for all levels of kiting in flat water and waves.  Mat Pendle, owner of GK, welcomed us to his island home and hosted us with his house, catamaran and awesome kitesurf products.  We scored unbelievable kiting conditions and had photographers and video on us the whole time.  I was privileged to meet some other GK riders from around the world and enjoy their time.  Will Bennet, Xisco, Mikey Bradley, Noah, Gusty, Peter, Litewave Dave, and others were the international crew who made the trip so enjoyable.

The highlight was definitely Big Wednesday towards the end of the trip.   I scored the biggest fastest and most menacing waves of my life.  I lost my kite, and nearly my life;  I was assisted by a stranger and learnt to value my matrix impact vest more profoundly.  The photos tell the glamourous side of the story.  The rest is one of survival in huge 5m seas, strong currents and long swims in the deep blue open ocean.  The lessons – stay with your buddy, don’t get fooled by your Kodak courage, stay calm and enjoy the calculated risks that bring you exhilaration.

Huge thanks to Mat Pendle and the South African guardian who was out alone and helped me back to the safety of the lagoon.