Local Ontario Rider Mark Does

LocalKiteSpots.com recently reached Wasaga Beach local rider, Mark Does, to find out a little more about how he got involved in kiting, where he rides, and what's next for 2010. Mark is a PASA certified instructor, and the founder of North Coast Kiteboarding School, based in Wasaga Beach.

How did you get into kiting, how long, what other sports are you involved with?

I first got into Kiteboarding on a surf trip to Hatteras 2001. Mat and Trip from Real were ripping it up and that was it, I was hooked. After a year of getting my but kicked on my old school Wipika Free Air C-kite, I finally made some progress in 2002. Unfortunately there weren't instructors around back then so I took some lumps. After a few year of riding, I found myself helping total strangers at Wasaga. Strangers/new kiters that had no clue what they were doing. I couldn't stand by and watch them wreck themselves and others around. This assistance to new kiters sparked the idea of a Kite School in Wasaga. So in 2007, I started North Coast Kiteboarding School in Wasaga. It's a blast helping others learn my favourite sport.

Kiteboarding is definitely my favourite sport; however I still get really stoked about surfing. The two sports really blend well especially here at Allenwood.

Where do you ride here in Ontario? What spots do you recommend for your students?

My favourite spots here in Ontario are Allenwood/Wasaga and Oliphant. We had some unforgettable days this past fall. Multiple days of NW 25-35 knots. Days where you test your skills and boost your confidence, pulling some massive, massive airs. I have never boosted so high and so far as those days late October 09. It still brings a smile to my face. Oliphant is always a favourite for flat water and warm SW wind. I tell my students to ride Beach 6, less crowds and smaller waves.

Have you been on any good trips recently? Where?

I was in the Florida Keys a while back and could not believe the flat water ever where. Islamorada is a great place to kite especially Anne's Beach. The winter season sees consistent wind and good temperatures, especially for us Canadians used to kiting in April and November.

Last winter I was in Aruba, a place called Palm Beach / High Rise Beach. There is a good spot just East of the hotels. It's hot, windy and has tons of flat water. It not the best location for beginners due to offshore winds, make sure to bring Booties.

Previously, we went to Cabarete DR to kite. Great spot for kiting due to consistent winds and warm weather. I would recommend it to intermediate kiters.

Then there is Hatteras. What can I say.... if you haven't been there, you should go. The spring and fall are the best times to go with good flat water on the Sound side and epic waves of the Ocean side. Great for all levels from beginner to advanced. I tell all me students to do the road trip because it's always a good time.

What's your favorite trick? What's project tricks are you working on?

My latest favourite trick is Unhooked, Backside 360, throw in a grab once in a while. Pulling that trick lit up, gives you a very long view of the clouds, due to most of that hang time is blind to your landing. This year I am going to work on incorporating kite loops to my arsenal of tricks.

Any new 2010 gear / products you are excited about?

I am looking forward to the new LF Havocs, they removed the center strut to increase the low end and added to the hang time of the kite. The new LF bar is a big improvement with it's center quick release and will definitely be a favourite this season. Of course I cannot forget my secret weapon; my Rogue Wave custom, it's unbelieveable, soo smooth, worth every nickel.

Look forward to seeing all you guys this spring, winter kiting is just not the same rush.

Calling all Local Riders

Local riders make local spots work. To have your local rider story published on this site, e-mail Bill Walseth at bill@wcg-itx.com