MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Summer 2019

81 Having traded city life 10 years ago for the long beaches and big flatwater of the South Georgian Bay region, Mason Watt is looking forward to an elevated future in kiteboarding. An honour-roll student at C.C.I., the 16-year-old also holds down a part-time job at a local event supplier. When he’s not kiting, Mason likes to hang out with his friends, cable- wakeboard, and ride his dirt and street motorcycles. Mountain Life: How did you get into kiteboarding? Mason Watt: My father introduced me to it; we would go to Fisher Fields and fly trainer kites. ML: What are your favourite aspects of the sport? MW: The different disciplines, from freestyle to big air and wave riding. ML: How does kiting compare to other sports? MW: You meet a lot of great people, and there’s no pressure to perform. There is less risk of injury, when compared to other activities like hockey. ML: What are your ideal conditions? MW: Shallow flatwater, sunny skies, 17 to 20 knots of wind, and no wetsuit. ML: What are your favourite spots to kite? MW: In April we went to Antigua, and I met pro rider Jake Kelsick. He was very approachable and gave me lots of tips to progress. It is a very chill vibe there, and they have great flatwater with smooth tradewinds. I am also very fortunate to be able to ride from my backyard on Georgian Bay, and when the wind direction doesn’t co-operate at home [in Collingwood], I enjoy sessions in Wasaga Beach. ML: How important is good gear? MW: Having current equipment that aligns with my personal riding style allows me to progress. ML: Tell us about your sponsorship. MW: I am fortunate to have a relationship with seven-time national champion Sam Medysky of Airush North America. He has been a huge part in my progression through mentoring, and hooking me up with gear. My dad and I split the costs of the product, but sometimes I miss out on good riding conditions because I need to work to pay for my equipment. ML: Do You have any tips on how to motivate yourself? MW: Watching professional edits by pro riders Kevin Langeree and Craig Cunningham. Kevin’s style of speed and aggression is inspirational, and Craig’s videos of Brazil are some of my favourites. ML: Do you have any competition plans? MW: Yes, I am hoping to attend the Junior Nationals at the Kite Clash event in Squamish, B.C. ML: Where do you see the sport in 10 years? MW: Hopefully more young people are involved. ML: What would you recommend to young people interested in kiteboarding? MW: You would almost have to get your parents into it. Lessons are mandatory, but you can buy an inexpensive trainer kite and start your training with it. ML: What are your long-term goals? MW: I am interested in mechanical engineering as a career. After graduating high school, I would like to take some time off to travel to some of the world’s best kiteboarding locations. I do enjoy teaching kiteboarding, and would like to seek instructor certification. airush.com @mason_watt3 A conversation with teenaged kiteboarding phenomMason Watt Mason Watt on Georgian Bay. COLIN FIELD words :: Rob Vanyi