Harlem Kitesurfing: Beneath the Surface

Victor Looijestijn has been part of the Harlem Kitesurfing story since the very beginning and has worked in almost every department. From his early days as one of the brand's original team riders to becoming Harlem's Team Manager, Victor has been involved in everything from team development and community building to product development, design, and shaping the direction of the brand.Based at Harlem HQ, Victor shares the story behind Harlem's growth, his own personal journey, the philosophy driving one of kitesurfing's most progressive brands, and, of course, what makes Victor, Victor.

Andrea Zust has done it again. In Sylt, Germany, the Swiss rider successfully defended her Hydrofoil World Championship title, making it three consecutive World Championships.But it’s never been straightforward. Just three years ago in the hydrofoil big air discipline, women were still competing directly against the men. Andrea talks about her journey, what it means to be part of the amazing Harlem team, and the reality of balancing professional kitesurfing with her other life as a full-time ER doctor working shifts.And then, to make things even more interesting, we bring in her boyfriend and coach, Peer Schnyder, who is also part of the Harlem international team. The three of us have a lot of fun discussing what it’s like to have your partner as your coach and teammate, the challenges, the pressure, and the positives of being a professional couple both on and off the water.#ChangeTheTide #HarlemKitesurfing

Ralf Groesel and Aaron Hadlow join us to discuss the game-changing new Thrive V2 kite and Launch V2 Kiteboard.We go beneath the surface of what has changed, why it has changed, and how those changes translate onto the water. Ralf takes us through the design and development of the Thrive V2, while Aaron shares his experience testing and overcoming the challenges of improving the already successful Thrive V1.We talk vertical lift, hang time, control, versatility and the updated 8-point bridle, before looking at the Launch V2 and the changes that give it more grip and stability while maintaining its smooth, comfortable ride.Two new products, two years in the making, the thinking behind them, and what riders can expect on the water.

Sarah Sadek is Harlem's highest-ranked female team rider and one of the world's top five Big Air athletes. From her home in Egypt to competing on the biggest stages in the sport, Sarah discusses how she harnesses her fear control switch, the mindset behind her success, and her approach to competition at the highest level.Growing up in Dahab, Sarah explains how the destination shaped her journey, why Harlem has always felt like a natural fit, and what continues to drive her to push the limits of Big Air.

Martin Rahnel is already making his mark on the world of kiteboarding. An Estonian national team rider for Harlem Kitesurfing, youth sailing world champion and multiple national champion, Martin has already competed at some of the sport's biggest events, including Lords of Tram and Full Power Tarifa.In this episode, Martin joins us to discuss his competitive goals and aspirations, the story behind Nordic Kite Fest and it’s bold ambitions, his role working alongside Harlem Estonia dealer Arno, and his passion for inspiring the next generation into the sport.And as a bonus, we catch up with Arno live from the beach at Nordic Kite Fest to get his perspective as a national Harlem dealer.00:45 – Estonia + Nordic Kite Festival09:05 – Youth Sailing World Champion12:10 – NKF Big Air Competition17:00 – Arno Raadom / Harlem Estonia22:50 - Martin and Harlem24:38 - Goals, dreams and hobbies28:44 - Advice for Youthhttps://harlemkitesurfing.com/https://nordickitefest.eu/en-gbhttps://kiteloop.ee#ChangeTheTide