All eyes on Canadian Champ Lauren Holman
Canadian Champ Lauren Holman had a successful year so far: The 2x Canadian National Champ started competing in the Kite Park League and joined the Cabrinha International Team. We spoke to Lauren about her journey in kiteboarding and are excited to see what the future holds.
Hi Lauren, you joined the Cabrinha International Team this summer. Can you share a bit about yourself?
I’m excited to be part of this amazing team! I’m originally from a small beach town in Southwestern Ontario called Bright’s Grove. I’m 21 years old and was first introduced to kiting by my dad at the age of 14. He took me out at our home spot in Lake Huron and it’s been a love of mine ever since. Summertime at home can be epic. We have spots to kite in every wind direction and since the kiting community here is pretty small, you usually have the whole place to yourself.
Sounds epic! Do you have a Top 3 of kite spots in Canada you recommend ?
We definitely have some pretty cool spots up here! My number one is definitely Squamish, BC. I’ve never kited in more perfect conditions. Steady winds and flat water delivers some pretty epic freestyle sessions on the west coast. After Squamish, Malpeque Bay in PEI is up there. Weeds beneath the surface of the water provide glassy conditions that are tough to find anywhere else. Last but not least, my home spot in Brights Grove. Nothing beats those peaceful solo foil sessions on Lake Huron at the end of the day. I’ve had so many beautiful summer night sessions, watching the sun set from between my lines.
What is your main discipline and how did you get into this style of riding?
Wakestyle is my main discipline. I’ve always been motivated by the truly limitless possibilities of the tricks you can do. Growing up, I remember watching videos of all the pros landing these awesome wakestyle maneuvers and being inspired to ride like that. I think it’s pretty cool how different riders can bring their own unique style to the same trick. This pushes me to be creative during my sessions and always keeps things interesting!
What set up are you riding this year?
I’m riding the FX, along with the Xcal Wood 135. For features, I’m riding the CBL 139. My setup is reliable and never fails. I know I don’t have to worry about anything when going for a new trick!
You and Lucas Arsenault are a real power couple! Do you two train together and how does it benefit your progress?
I think I definitely benefit a bit more than Lucas from training together haha! It’s so valuable to have someone that not only motivates you, but also knows how to do all of the tricks you’re learning and can break them down for you. His pointers have definitely played a role in my freestyle progression.
You’re constantly on the road for competitions and training daily. What do you find challenging of this lifestyle?
A big challenge for me is finding balance. Kite trips can be pretty full on as far as constant riding, training, and just thinking about tricks in general. It’s important to have other things going on, whether it be online work, yoga, or a good book. Focusing on something other than kiting is sometimes a tough one for me.
What is #LiveFreeRideFree for you?
Kiteboarding has allowed endless exploration, incredible travel experiences, and the opportunity to see many parts of the world from the water. One of the unique things about this sport is the freedom it allows naturally by harnessing the power of the wind. No motor, no batteries, only you, your kite, and your board... how awesome is that?
You won the Canada Nationals this year and are truly ripping! We are extremely happy to support a lot of female champions as part of the Cabrinha team. What's the current vibe in the female kiteboarding community in our view?
Thank you! I was thrilled to claim the top spot this year. The level of riding in the female kiteboarding community is improving incredibly fast. It’s so inspiring to see so many women progressing, motivating one another on the water, and stomping new tricks. It’s only going to get better from here and I can’t wait to see the female kiteboarding community continue to grow!
Do you have any advise for girls that want to build a career in kiteboarding?
Make your own luck and find your niche. Be creative and generate your own unique style in everything you do.
FOLLOW LAUREN HOLMAN ON INSTAGRAM @laurenh0lman