Manu Bertin and the Early Days of Kiteboarding

[ricki]

Originally Posted by kiteman1978

THose shots are amazing! I would think in waves that big, you could get some serously high jumps and insane hang time?

Yes, that is one thing that made King of the Air in Maui such an outstanding event when good conditions were on. Another thing for the past sad to say. Still, what a great competition series.

Something to remember about Manu in the heavy conditions shown above is the gear. The early 2 line LEI's (Wipika Classic) were far more demanding of kiter skill and control than even the early 4 line LEI's. Staying upwind, launching and landing big jumps, etc. were far more difficult on the old 2 line kites. So, not only leading the way but also in extreme conditions and doing it well to boot! Well done Manu.