Andy Yates

Andy's comments and tips

Firstly, nice work with the site, and thank you very much for the section on me, really appreciate it .

What do you think about the handbook?

I think the handbook is a great idea. There aren't many places where people can go and read about all there is to know about kiteboarding. It's good that you are putting a focus on safety and gear, which is great for newcomers to the sport just needing that little bit more information before they start.

The 3 most important factors when learning to kitesurf

Patience!! So many times when I was learning I'd make a mistake and end up drifting into the beach in the surf and end up with a huge bird's nest in my lines. It's so hard to stay composed at times like these, but you really have to hang in there.

Consolidating is important for learning as well. Thinking about how you can improve your skills and what you need to do to get to that level is crucial at first. A lot of kiteboarding is in the mind and if you can visualise it, you can usually do it.

Finally, you have got to have fun kiting. There is just so much to do in kiting and no one can do everything, that's why the fun and progression never ends!!