What part of kiting got you hooked?
The first time I ever flew a Kite (Matrix 7m), face planted and got dragged down the beach I was hooked. But the addiction arrived the first time I got up and riding.

What kites do you have and which one is your fav?
Currently I have a 13m and an 8m S Bow Starkite, kindly sponsored by Surfers. I also own a Wipika Matrix 7m (the same one I learnt on). At one stage I was an expert at borrowing kites and often flew my boyfriend’s 11m Matrix or Jo’s 15m Flexi Atom. My 7m is still my baby.

Which kiters inspire you?
All of the kiters at La Mercy lagoon are an inspiration and its amazing watching and learning from them and supporting them in general. Steveo’s amazing air’s, Doug’s aggressive style, Pips’ constant competition and Jo’s general craziness. The vibe at the lagoon is amazing, truly what kiting was made to be about.

But it’s the girls in the sport (Janet and Sjoukje fom Cape Town, Joe and Tanya from Sterkies and Candice and Jade from the Lagoon) who truly inspire me. It is not because there is a competitive atmosphere but because we all support each other.

What is your favourite move / Signature move?
The screaming, kamikaze slide up the beach, either with or without my board, after realising that I’m not edging hard enough to stop in time. Everyone hears me coming and runs!

Do you compete?
Not yet! At the moment I prefer to kite for myself and perfect my style a little more.

Which do you prefer, flat water or waves?
Definitely flat water! I have to concentrate too hard in the ocean.

What do you do when there is no wind?
Get depressed, design graphics for boards, pray to the wind god, watch kiting DVD’s, read the GUST, practice my wind dance, phone every 5mins to see if there is wind. Oh and maybe some studying and, far too often for my liking, work to get money.

Any tips?
Do this for yourself. Don’t let people pressurize you into trying something you are not comfortable with. Just remember though, it’s not the kite that makes the rider.

Name:
Laura-Jane Airey

Age:
25

Years kiting:
5 years, about 2 year seriously

Sponsors:
Surfers, Ballito Squadron Kiteboards, GRK

Team Rider:
Star Kites

Occupation:
Student and Entrepreneur

Ideal Job:
Kiteboard Design and Graphics