Meet kiteboarding legend Aaron Hadlow

Aaron is currently preparing for the Red Bull King of the Air event, one of the biggest events to kick off the season. Taking place from 31 January to 14 February 2015, in Big Bay, Blouberg, Hadlow refers to the King of the Air as, “Pushing the limits of extreme kiteboarding. There are many disciplines in kiteboarding, but this is the most spectacular one. Each rider in the event has his own unique style and showcases what they think its all about. It is the FMX of the water.”

So, behind the mask of the fierce competitor, who is the real Aaron Hadlow? Many might see Aaron on different beaches worldwide and would be forgiven for thinking that he is a quiet guy. However, his pure drive and determination to improve, coupled with his infectious British humour and no fuss attitude, has played a big part in why he is still at the top of his game.

For the last 10 years, he has been a Team Rider for Red Bull International and realises that their support has had a huge part to play in his success. “Since we joined forces they have supported me to achieve my goals. In the beginning, I was young and hungry to win championships, so financial backing was key at that point. They got me to the events I needed to be at and I was allowed to focus and progress to get to where I wanted to be.

“As I got older, I found I could utilise other resources to make dream projects come alive.

“I learnt the most about our relationship when I got injured, they did whatever they could to get me back on the water as soon as possible. Through my journey with Red Bull, I have learnt a lot about my body and how important it is to keep the high level of fitness as I grow older. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today and back at a level where I can still battle for a championship.”

There’s no doubt that regardless of his success and endless years in the limelight, Hadlow is incredibly humble and full of admiration for other riders. When I asked which of his contemporaries he respected, two names came to light. “Ruben Lenten is one because of the image he has created for himself. He’s found a niche in a discipline that he loves, whilst his determination and personality has made his name one of the most recognised in the sport. Secondly, after going through injury myself, I’ve got a lot of respect for Youri Zoon because of how he has fought back after numerous injuries, won two world titles and still maintains a really high level of riding today.”

The life of a pro kiteboarder is certainly free of the daily grind that most of us face, but undoubtedly full on. With hectic travel schedules and pressures to perform, one might imagine it to be unsettling, but someone has to do the job, hey? And I suppose it all adds up to the overall lifestyle that Hadlow thrives in. When asked what three things were important to a good lifestyle, he says, “One, it’s important to get out there, travel and take yourself outside your comfort zone. Two, staying fit and healthy, providing your body with good food. Three, surrounding yourself with friends, family and positive people.”

Intrigued by the prospect of Hadlow opening up about those closest to him, I probe a little to see if he will give a more personal insight. “My family is small, but I am really close to my parents. They’ve helped and guided me to get me where I am today. Most of my friends I have met through the sport; a few are older than me, who I’ve learnt a lot from, and the rest are at a similar age that I’ve grown up with and shared great experiences with,” he said.

Going back to health and fitness, Hadlow admits that only in the last year has he modified his diet quite a lot. “I have cut out many foods and drinks I used to really enjoy. The juicer has become the most-used appliance in the kitchen and easily digestible and nourishing meals are becoming more common. The more exercise I do, the more I feel the need to provide my body with the right substance. The most important thing is trying to get the most energy at the right time for kiting. That’s what I try to achieve.”

When talking about training, he endeavours to get as many days as possible on the water, saying, “There’s nothing better than training in the sport you do, but I have learnt that it’s important to not overdo it.” Following his rehab programme for his knee injury, he really got to know his body and acknowledges that he needed to dedicate more time to the gym for some functional training. “Now that I have a bit of a routine, I am really enjoying my training. Some days I feel stronger than others, but overall I see results.”