In South Florida, kitesurfers are using social media to organize meetups, often starting with a simple Facebook post to track conditions, share updates and coordinate when the weather is right. One recent post led to a downwinder on April 12, with riders launching from Virginia Key, passing Stiltsville and finishing at Matheson Hammock Park & Marina in Coral Gables.
For many, the sport is more than just finding the right wind.
“There’s something very powerful about how in touch you are with nature,” said kiter David Andrews. “It’s the water and the wind, there’s no motor. It’s very real and you get very much into a zen moment, that’s the best part about it.”
The community is as dynamic as the circumstances, attracting riders of all ages and skill levels.
“I’m 76 years old and I feel honored to be able to do this at my age,” said Aldo Vildoza. “My plan is to keep doing it, I’m not ready to quit… anybody can do it.”
