Summer Memories With RyGo

Summer Memories With RyGo

Update about September - Pumpkin Spice Latte is now available! While one of us (read: me) is excited for this season, all of us around the shop are rather nostalgic of the summer days gone away. RyGo's summer was one of trying new things, enjoying MACkite as a full time employee, and experiencing cable riding. Read through as he reflects on his Michigan Summer.

RyGo's Michigan Summer

"This was my first summer as a full timer at MACkite. I have been instructing here for the last few years. After all that time hanging out as a shop rat I decided it was time to take the plunge. Working at MACkite has been a lot of fun and has fostered a lot of growth within me as a person and, most notably, as a kiteboarder. There is a wealth of kiteboarding knowledge in this building as well as a good work ethic and fun. What really stands out to me is the early morning sessions getting schooled in wakestyle by Tucker and Nate as well as competing with Brad for that next trick. I can’t leave out the sunset sessions with long time friends like Aaron Johnson. If you have ever called the shop you know how much fun it can be to talk to Aaron. Another enjoyable aspect of this summer has been talking with customers on the phone in my board shorts and flip flops - there is nothing like talking about kiteboarding all day long.

Every person in the shop has their own set of talents on and off the water, making for a very well rounded group. I take advantage of this every day, and I know more than a few customers can attest to the great help these guys provide. One of the major perks I have enjoyed is the wealth of gear I am “obligated” to demo here. I have fallen in love with the Slingshot board line up. There is a very distinct feel to their boards. 

Speaking of a distinct feel, On the kite spectrum, I find myself being drawn back to Cabrinha. The FX is one of the funnest kites I have flown. I originally learned on Cabrinha but somewhere along the way I found myself riding various brands from Liquid Force to Best. Don’t get me started how much I love the 17 Best TS. This summer has been pretty light, so aside from coming to truly appreciate the big kites I have become immersed in cable boarding to mix things up and get a little cross training. 

It has also been a summer of fitness, particularly calisthenics. The older I get, the more I realize I need to keep my engine running clean. One of my shop goals this year is to put out some videos on kiteboarding fitness. I’m looking forward to the fall as the windy season approaches. There is nothing like sessioning with friends, especially at King of the Great Lakes! Of course, as it gets too cold for me to enjoy the beaches our town has to offer warmer waters will be calling my name - although admittedly I don’t know where my next trip will be just yet.

Catch ya on the phones!

Rygo"