Merry Christmas!!! | The Megapod

Summary

Kitesurf365: The Megapod – “Merry Christmas!!!” (December 18, 2025)

Episode Overview

This festive, free-wheeling Megapod finds hosts Adrian Kerr and Ben—joined for a key segment by pro rider Jason Van der Spee—chatting about Christmas traditions, kiteboarding gossip, gear, and the big stories from the kiteboarding scene in 2025. Half holiday banter and half genuine industry insights, the conversation ranges from future projects and competitions to the health of major brands and memorable moments of the year.

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Christmas Traditions and Festive Antics

• Adrian and Ben start with bemused chatter about the holidays:
  • Adrian deals with a mischievous cat wreaking havoc on his Christmas tree.
  • Ben admits his family skips traditional gifts, opting instead for fine meals and a football match on the village green, “the north side vs. the south side.” (03:29)
    • “Every year there’s a small gaggle of people that think maybe this year we’re not doing it. And that gets shut down quite quickly.” – Ben (04:30)
  • Adrian prefers warm, sunny Christmases spent at the beach in Thailand.
    • “I like to be warm. So much more fun.” – Adrian (05:54)
• Christmas at Jason Van der Spee’s is apparently laidback:
  • “We’re gonna have a morning with the elderly people, celebrate some lovely things, open a couple presents, and then as the day continues, probably just resume life as normal… It doesn’t really have the feel to it, you know.” – Jason (18:22)

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Opening the Mailbag and Listener Feedback

• Reflections on how feedback is (or isn’t) used:
  • Adrian jokes about storing positive feedback to show Ben when he’s feeling down (06:09)
  • Ben: “Both the negative and the positive are often written by people who don’t really know what they’re talking about.” (07:15)
  • Feedback that’s actually useful comes from customer service or creative suggestions, like fans pitching themselves as the next project star (07:36–09:30).

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Road to Pro: Japan 2026 Announcement (Major Segment)

• The team confirms another installment of the fan-favorite "Road to Pro" series, set for February 2026 in Japan, at Jetta Kawano’s Sandy Feet kite school. (10:26, 11:14)
  • "We're going to Japan. We're going to go and visit Jetta Kawano at his little school, Sandy Feet. You should all...just go and look at the stuff that Jetta makes to promote his school. It is the most wholesome, nicest, most pure thing you'll ever see." — Ben (10:37–11:14)
  • They encourage listeners to boost Sandy Feet’s Google reviews as a show of support, but only if they're funny and five-star:
    • “We're not reading them out unless they're five star...Any, anything less and we won't read it out. And actually, we will send you bad vibes.” — Ben (11:51–11:57)
• Jason Van der Spee joins live from South Africa, recovering from a burst eardrum but ready for the Japan trip (14:04–14:55).
  • “The ear is not well, to be honest…But it’s on the mend. It’s not painful anymore. So I think you're gonna be okay for February?” – Ben
  • “No, I’ll be fine for Feb. I’m already kiting now…The doctor says it could take three to eight weeks. So I kind of took his word on it and I kind of stuck to about a week and a half. It's good enough.”—Jason (14:29–14:55)
• The trio (Jason Van der Spee, Steezy Pete, and Jetta Kawano) will produce “the greatest kiteboarding video ever made.” (13:03–13:15)
  • “Do you think you’re up to it?” – Ben
  • “I mean, yeah, that goes in a sentence together. I mean, I’m...I’m really...I’m down for it. How bad could it be?” – Jason (16:03–16:16)
• The group organizes gear donations for Sandy Feet school (17:07–17:53).

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Industry Insights & Kiteboarding News

Major Brand Discussion: Cabrinha and Industry Trends

• Ongoing rumors about riders leaving Cabrinha, but Ben argues that brand loyalty and the tribal nature of kiteboarding keep companies afloat:
  • “That’s not how the kiteboarding industry works, Adrian. ... People really love kiteboarding. It’s part of their identity and their souls. And I think the people behind Cabrinha love kiteboarding and want to make it work.” – Ben (25:33, 25:49)
• Cabrinha Switchblades and Motos’ legacy as ubiquitous, affordable kites.
• Humorous story about a listener buying two brand new Cabrinhas for £900. (26:41–27:48)
• “Do I hope Cabrina disappears? Absolutely not. I hope that one stays. Do I think in general it’d be good for the kiteboarding industry if some of the brands disappeared? Yeah, I do.” – Ben (28:58)

Retail and Innovation

• Praise for Kite Mana’s entrepreneurial success and employee perks.
• The growing influence of new player Gong, but awaiting a big-name signing:
  • “To get to that next level, they need to have a big name in competition with those kites performing.” – Adrian (45:03)
• Adrian shares dilemma about handling double-skin kites in extreme wind (46:00–47:07).

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2025: Biggest Stories in Kiteboarding

A highlight segment with detailed discussion—perfect for those wanting a year-in-review snapshot:

1. Jamie Overbeek’s Turbulent Year (31:26–33:13)

• Left F-One for a mixed gear approach, was controversially denied a King of the Air slot, and became the sport’s biggest talking point:
  • “The Jamie Overbeak journey…probably the biggest story of this year, the most compelling.” – Ben (31:29)
  • “Every single person I speak to, the first thing they ask about King of the Air. I can't believe Jamie didn’t make it.”—Adrian (33:13)

2. Graham Helzer’s Passing

• The immense impact of industry loss and community response (33:22).

3. The Race to 40 Meters

• “A lot of fun…people kind of like that chaotic, on-the-ground style. I think that’s something we’ll bring in [again].” – Adrian (34:41–34:53)

4. King of the Air: Qualifiers Controversy (38:13–40:00)

• Public confusion and rider frustration over unfair or opaque qualifying rules.
• Events like Cold Hawaii lose prestige as “qualifiers.”

5. Women’s Progression

• Maiden women's Mega Loop competition; Zara Huggenrod wins. Calls for expanded women’s event fields:
  • “The competition hardness of the woman is impressing me... From 6 to 10, we’re getting lighter in ability…I’d like to see them extend that.” – Adrian (38:13–39:53)

6. Liam Whaley’s Comeback

• Returns at Lords of Tram, possibly his last pro event:
  • “We’re probably seeing the end of Liam, but...if we did see him come back from his injury to do one event, I think that’s probably what he wanted to do.” – Adrian (41:26)

7. Aaron Hadlow’s “Blank Kite Test” Series

• A personal highlight for Ben, blending tech reviews with sessions in the UK and Brazil. (41:50–43:05)

8. Creative Projects and Team Bonding

• From the Queen’s Parade London bus tour (payout for a friendly bet) to anticipation about Japan plans and live events.

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• “If you’re good at football, I will try to recruit you to our side. If you’re not, I will try to keep you as far away as possible.” – Ben on family Christmas football (04:05)
• “Both the negative and the positive [comments] are often written by people who don’t really know what they’re talking about.” – Ben (07:15)
• “He just trusted that [Jason] would be good. I gave him woefully small amounts of direction…” – Ben (20:06)
• “We should also ask Brunotti if we can help Jetta with wetsuits and harnesses…” – Ben (17:39)
• “Do I hope Cabrina disappears? Absolutely not. I hope that one stays.” – Ben (28:58)
• “The Jamie Overbeak journey…probably the biggest story of this year, the most compelling.” – Ben (31:29)
• “I just don’t understand how these guys are so comfortable at that height.” – Adrian on the 40m jumps (35:08)

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Timestamps for Major Segments

• 00:00–06:00 – Festive catch-up and Christmas traditions
• 06:00–10:00 – Feedback, fan engagement, Road to Pro interest
• 10:00–18:00 – Japan trip preview, Sandy Feet promo, call with Jason Van der Spee
• 21:10–26:00 – Prize winner antics, Cabrinha and gear chat, industry loyalty
• 28:00–34:30 – Year’s biggest stories: Jamie Overbeek, tragic loss, Race to 40
• 35:00–40:00 – Women’s progression, King of the Air qualifiers debate
• 41:26–43:00 – Liam Whaley, Hadlow’s Blank Kite Test, creative projects
• 44:30–45:47 – New brands: Gong and the search for star power

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Tone and Style

As always, Ben and Adrian maintain a playful, irreverent tone but pivot easily to sincerity when discussing the sport’s most emotional stories. Industry gossip is mixed with sharp, informed takes and classic self-deprecation. Jason Van der Spee’s cameo injects even more laid-back, quick-witted banter.

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Final Thoughts

The episode delivers exactly what Megapod fans expect: kiteboarding news laced with good humor, personality-driven stories, and a hint of holiday chaos. Highlights include insights on industry dynamics, a sneak peek at upcoming projects, and a genuine sense of community both on and off the water.

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For more, follow Kitesurf365 and tune in for their next Instagram Live on Christmas Day!

Transcript

[Adrian]

We just said is Jason van der Spe going to pick up?

[Ben]

Yeah, obviously. He's barely kiteboarded. He's only thought about kite warding.

[Adrian]

No bigger than two or three person per group.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Strato's homeland. So he. He knows the place better than me.

[Ben]

Okay, moving on, moving on, moving on.

[Adrian]

Catastrophic equipment failure.

[Ben]

Going for the boogaloo double just to get the landing. Oh.

[Adrian]

Had a couple of strings and it was extremely dangerous. Guys, I sent the trap and it is go. Gold for Ellie Aldridge and gold for Great Britain.

[Ben]

I'm back here with everybody's favorite kiteboarding podcaster is from New Zealand.

[Adrian]

Why are you talking like no one's. No one even knows who we are. It's one week till Christmas, buddy. Come on, let's drop the formalities and let's just enjoy this year and we can start weird in 2026 if you want. That was strange.

[Ben]

Yeah, I liked how I didn't talk over just end there. That was good. Big of me. Really.

[Adrian]

Dude. I can't believe it's one week till Christmas. It's crazy how fast this year's gone. It's been scarily quick.

[Ben]

Are you feeling festive?

[Adrian]

I'm spending half my time picking up the bloody Christmas tree because this cat that we have in the house thinks it's like the great play toy. So I'm not feeling so Christmas. I wish there wasn't a Christmas tree cuz I'm picking up baubles, gingerbread houses and crap that's on the floor being knocked out by this monster.

[Ben]

That sounds tricky. What about you and we on behalf, Adrian, just let me say on behalf of all of the listeners that we hope you cope with that tricky situation. You have your end, mate.

[Adrian]

It's like dealing with the devil, mate. Are you feeling very festive yourself?

[Ben]

Indeed I am, Adrian.

[Adrian]

Done the shopping.

[Ben]

This year we're doing. You have to spend 35 pounds on food.

[Adrian]

Oh, food. Okay. That's also good. So you're not doing any presents?

[Ben]

Well, I don't think so. We never buy each other Christmas presents, do we, Adrian?

[Adrian]

No, we. We were doing swapping years by doing nice dinners. We've got incredibly fine palettes, something that you guys don't know about. And we do like a classy me and we normally did in South Africa, but this year we didn't get around to it. But we do some nice things. I've had some gifts from you over the years of birthday present gifts and stuff like that, which has always been nice.

[Ben]

Yes, indeed. Indeed. Yeah, I think that's something that's overlooked, that we are actually pretty sophisticated, really. But we never get credit for that.

[Jason Van der Spee]

We.

[Ben]

People just think we're. We're fools.

[Adrian]

What does Christmas day at the McCann house will look like?

[Ben]

No, I don't. I don't think we'll be going into that.

[Adrian]

Come on.

[Ben]

We're going into that. Well, there's usually a small herd of ridiculously old people arrive because it's just this. Our family's full of them.

[Adrian]

Every family's full of them. I just think old people get into Christmas more because they don't even know if it's the last one. They always party harder.

[Ben]

If they could see or think they might know it's Christmas. But I think we take this bet out. Honestly, I don't. I don't. I don't like it.

[Adrian]

I want to know what you do Christmas on Christmas morning.

[Ben]

Okay. On Christmas morning, myself, my family, and all of the other families that have grown up in the vicinity go to the village green and a football is bought there by someone. And then there is a football match played. The north side of the green against the south side of the green.

[Adrian]

What if you're on the eastern side of the green, by the way, or the western side? I know that there's a bottom. There's a triangle at the bottom of that green that, you know, there's a lot of people who could be pissed off. They're not the north or the south.

[Ben]

Yeah, basically. If you're good at football, then we. I will try to recruit you to our side, and if you're not, I. I will try and keep you as far away as possible, and then. Yeah, that's how that works. Do people enjoy it? Not really, but it's something we've always done, and if you try and get out of it, you often do get dragged from your house onto the pitch. So there's some, you know, just. Either you just got to, you know, you have to do it, basically. But every year there's a small gaggle of people that think maybe this year we're not doing it. And that gets shut down quite quickly.

[Adrian]

Sounds like a nice start to the day.

[Ben]

Oh, indeed, indeed. I'm yet to win as well. I've never won, so whichever team I'm on is cursed.

[Adrian]

In all those years, you've never won?

[Ben]

No, I scored a lot of goals, so. Adrian, don't you worry.

[Adrian]

Are you like that seagull that just hangs out? Give me the ball and just boot it past old grandma who's in goal.

[Ben]

Oh yeah, I. I see the red mist and I just do whatever it takes to win, but just haven't been successful yet, mate.

[Adrian]

He's called Vinnie Jones around the neighborhood. Just taking people out and squeezing people by the nuts when they just piss them off. Yeah, I mean, I hope you get some good weather for that. It sounds like it's auspicious occasion.

[Ben]

No, it doesn't matter what the weather is. It happens. Yeah. What about you, Adrian? What does Christmas day look like your end?

[Adrian]

Mind your own business. No, no, mate, I will probably wa. Yeah, I'll cook some breakfast and I think we're going to go up for lunch. So we'll do a nice lunch and then I'm going to go down, take the barbecue down the beach and play some music, drink a few beers and cook some food and watch the sunset and just have a nice day outside, man. Enjoy the weather. You know, the rainy season's finally stopped. Yeah, just enjoy this beautiful weather we've.

[Ben]

Been having just another Christmas in sunny, sunny Thailand.

[Adrian]

I've only had a few winter Christmases. I don't like them. I like to be warm. So much more fun.

[Ben]

I like to be frozen to the bone.

[Adrian]

Frozen to the bone.

[Ben]

Should we talk about kite boarding? Is any of what we've just said interesting to anyone? I don't know.

[Adrian]

Why not? Why not, bro, people, why not? We're opening up. I mean, this year we dropped the mask, bro. You know, it was a big move for you. Well, end of last year. But this year was the first full year without the mask and people are liking the. Liking the look. I get a lot of positive compliments. Yeah, People think call you a good looking man, Ben. You know, I mean, it's nice to hear these compliments. I delete them, of course. Delete them all. I mean, you don't get to see them. I've got them in a. I've got them in a store too. And it's called Show Ben when He's Really Down. That's the file name. Show Ben when He's having a bad Day. I'm yet to pull out.

[Ben]

Oh yeah? Yeah. This is the problem. I don't. People that have listened to this for ages will know that I don't really look at the. The comments unless I have to.

[Adrian]

You probably should sometimes. I looked a few times. I'm like, oh, dear God.

[Ben]

Well, this is the thing. Like this is useful.

[Adrian]

Well, most of the time they're honest. Most of the time it's the truth. You just don't like to hear It. That's the problem.

[Ben]

Let's. Let's unpick it. What does it say?

[Adrian]

Oh, I don't want to go back there. I couldn't go back there.

[Ben]

Okay. Yeah, no, but the positive ones aren't useful either. Like, both the negative and the positive are often written by people who don't really know what they're talking about.

[Adrian]

You know, I mean, that's. And I like. I mean, I don't want to get into it, but it's funny.

[Ben]

I mean, it's, it's not useful, though.

[Adrian]

I mean, it isn't. You know, you hear people talking about, don't read the comments and it's kind of funny thing. But I think in general, most things are positive.

[Ben]

Yeah. And the thing is, the useful feedback for us at Portrait is the customer service stuff. Right. It's like experience with the website that's working in a specific way. Or. I came to Portrait because of how to get paid, and that's all I'm interested in. So I'm going to leave after how to get paid because we haven't shown you the fact that we do Road to Pro and that's actually the most popular thing we do and blah, blah, blah, blah. So that's actually useful. I like to hear that stuff. And I like to hear people's creative ideas for series, too.

[Adrian]

Sure.

[Ben]

We had one the other day, didn't we? Well, actually, so there was a guy called Lars who emailed us and basically he was like, I want to be the next Steezy Pete Jetto Kawana. Which is. It's cool. Yeah. And nice of him to. To think of us and to take the time to write to us. We get a lot of messages like that and have done since we first started the, the Pete thing. People coming forth and being like. Or how about this? And it's really nice that people are excited by the next one and come to us and obviously imagine themselves being the next one. That. That's awesome. And it made me think because how many messages do you think you get like that a year, Adrian?

[Adrian]

Oh, from people who want to be involved in the Road to Pro stuff, I think about. I think it would be fair to say like two or three around every release, you know, about that sort of number. But, like, Lar's been the most organized saying, hey, listen, this is my level. This is what I can do it. You know, and he's actually got a valid. He's got a valid point as well. Like, it's actually, it's actually a good one. But I mean, I probably get. Yeah, let's say. I know. Let's say maximum 10 a year. I'd say probably.

[Ben]

Yeah. Yeah. And then the same for me as well. And it made me think, why don't we do an international audition? How sick would that be?

[Adrian]

I mean, what do we get them to do? We just put them in an all, all in, free for all paintball. You got to wear no shirt. Let's see who's the toughest.

[Ben]

No, no, we want. We want them to make an audition tape. We don't want to audition tape.

[Adrian]

Oh, okay. Yeah, okay, fine. I thought they're going to audition for me and you just sitting in. A couple of Lazy Boys just sitting there. Just. Yes. No, with. With our thumbs up or thumbs down. You know the other thing about Pete, though, someone said to me, this is the third one I've watched of Pete. He's not got better at all. I said, that's the joy. He's actually got worse. He's actually. His writing is. I think his writing was best in the mega. In. In the. In the mega loop. And then it's pretty much slipped down since then.

[Ben]

Yeah, obviously. He's barely kiteboarded. He's only thought about kiteboarding.

[Adrian]

And the exciting news, guys, is we're on the eve of another road to exciting. Are we allowed to talk about that?

[Ben]

Yeah, of course. Of course.

[Adrian]

What are we gonna say?

[Ben]

Yeah. So we're filming in February. We're going to Japan. We're going to go and visit Jeto Kawano at his little school. Sandy feet. You should all. If you're having a bad day, go on Instagram. This is not advice I'd normally give. Okay, go on Instagram. For this sole purpose only, put in Sandy feet, kite, and just go and look at the stuff that Jetto makes to promote his school. It is the most wholesome, nicest, most pure thing you'll ever see. Isn't it good, Adrian?

[Adrian]

I love Jitto. The other way you can help him is. Go on.

[Ben]

Is it good or is it good? Is it good, Adrian? Or not?

[Adrian]

It's on brand. Let's put it that way.

[Ben]

He's dodged the question twice.

[Adrian]

It's on brand. No bigger than two or three person per group. It's just. It's. You know, I kind of miss Jetto's music. I think Jetto should do more songs for this.

[Ben]

Absolutely, he should.

[Adrian]

But, yeah, I mean, if you want to also have a laugh, go and read the Google reviews of the place. I mean, they're positive about Jetto and Hika, but there are some pretty funny ones in there as well. So if you guys want to leave some funny ones, we'll read them out in the new year. So go on to Sandy but make.

[Ben]

Sure we're not reading them out unless they're five star.

[Adrian]

Yeah, because that guy needs help. They're going to be five star and they've got to be hilarious.

[Ben]

Yeah, make it funny, make it five star. Any, anything less and we won't read it out. And actually we will send you bad vibes.

[Adrian]

Yeah, we'll find your page and give you some one stars what your business is, even if it's helping the dogs one stop. Miss my dog. Are we saying who's coming?

[Ben]

I mean, well, do they know they're coming? We're hoping it's Jason Van Spay. I spoke to him yesterday.

[Adrian]

Actually, I also did as well. I checked and he's good to go.

[Ben]

Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Should we try and ring him right now, see if he picks up? No doubt. Jason Van Der Spee's got nothing better to be doing with his day.

[Adrian]

Everyone's gone apparently. He said it's quiet down there. Everyone's left, you know.

[Ben]

Yeah. So he's still in, he's still in Cape Town.

[Adrian]

Yeah, yeah, he's been resting up, mate. He's blew his eardrum out.

[Ben]

Blew his eardrum. Morale plummeted. But he's right as rain and ready for, ready for Japan.

[Adrian]

That's going to be a lot of fun. Do you have any idea what we're doing?

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Adrian]

Okay.

[Ben]

Yeah, they're going to, they're going to make Adrian, those three, they're going to try to make the best kite boarding video of all time.

[Adrian]

As a collective or individually?

[Ben]

Definitely not individually. Pete is not going to get anywhere near that, is he? But Pete in combination with Jason Van Der Spee and Jetta Kawano has more of a chance.

[Adrian]

It's going to be super interesting to see Ishigaki. I mean, it's part of the Okinawa and I know Okinawa from, from the Karate Kid. So yeah, we're. I'm. I think it's going to be super cool.

[Ben]

I think the location will be cool. I'm not sure the riding or the riders will be very cool. To say it's fantastic would be an understatement. Is Jason Van Der Spee going to pick up or not?

[Adrian]

I just messaged him, he didn't answer.

[Ben]

All right, should we try and ring? Oh, oh. Holy no way.

[Adrian]

We just said is Jason Van Der Spay gonna pick up.

[Jason Van der Spee]

I did. I am honored, boys. I'm busy driving, but it's fine.

[Ben]

Look at him go. He's hooning. He's hooning down the. The streets of Blouberg.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Flying down the streets of Bloberg.

[Ben]

What speed are we going? How fast do you think? No, don't. Actually.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Right now I'm going about 33km an hour, but I'm going around, around about like an exit or something.

[Ben]

Wait, how's the air?

[Jason Van der Spee]

The ear is not well, to be honest. It's still oozing fluid every time I wake up. My pillow doesn't look too pleasant. But it's all right. It's on the mend. It's not painful anymore. So I think you're gonna be okay for February. No, I'll be fine for Feb. I'm already kiting now. It's like the doctor says, it could take three to eight weeks. So I kind of took his word on it and I kind of stuck to about a week and a half. It's good enough.

[Ben]

So, Jason, two things to discuss. The first one is you've got something. You've maybe got something to say on the Internet soon, haven't you? Are you going to say it tomorrow? Because if so, you could. You could say a bit now.

[Jason Van der Spee]

I need time. I mean, if there's video evidence on the stream, it's kind of problematic because.

[Ben]

No, no, no, no. There's no video podcast, bro. Audio only.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Nothing can be. Nothing can be said yet, boys. I'm on the. I'm on the silent train at the moment still. Okay, I don't even know what you're on about.

[Adrian]

Well, I can see it on your T shirt.

[Ben]

Anyway, moving on. Okay, moving on, moving on, moving on. So Japan, February. You, Steezy Pete and Jetta Kawano are going to be tasked with. You're going to be making. Making the greatest kite boarding video ever made. Do you think you're up to it?

[Jason Van der Spee]

And I have to do this with Jetta and Steezy Pete?

[Adrian]

Yes.

[Jason Van der Spee]

I mean, yeah, that goes in a sentence together. I mean, I'm. I'm really. I'm down for it. How bad could it be? It's.

[Ben]

Well, we've seen how bad it can be.

[Adrian]

My question, do the other two have to ride or is it just Jason? Maybe those others are going to be a full time caddy and a full time chef. Maybe. Maybe Jetto's the chef and Steezy Pete's the butler.

[Jason Van der Spee]

And yes, get my ready diet of sticky rice. I'm very excited. No, but I think. I think the boys can pull through. They kind of. They kind of surprised me last time, so I don't know. How bad could it be? To be honest, it's Jado's homeland, so he knows the place better than me. Holy shit. I'm about to get holy.

[Ben]

The only other thing we need to discuss is we. Last time the whole gang from Rhodes Pro was together, we promised Jetta that we would bring out kites for his school. Are you gonna have surplus kites?

[Jason Van der Spee]

I think I can bring jets. A couple guts.

[Ben]

Okay. And then I will as well. Okay.

[Jason Van der Spee]

I've got kites to bring, Jed. I've got. I'll probably bring like four or five maybe.

[Ben]

Sweet. Cool.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Should be good.

[Adrian]

Bring two for me. Just bring two for me so I can hand them over. I feel like I'm part of the gang. You know what I've got at home, bro? I've got a whole bunch of, like, safety leashes. I'm going to donate safety leashes. Everyone needs a good safety leash.

[Ben]

That would be good.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Yeah.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Jason Van der Spee]

There we go. That's. That's your contribution. That's perfect.

[Ben]

Oi. We should also maybe ask Brunotti if we can help Jetta with like, wetsuits and harnesses and.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Yes, we can. I've also. I can also bring wetu. Tin harnesses for Jetta as well. That's a good idea.

[Adrian]

For his clients. You're three times the size of him, otherwise he's going to be wearing. He's going to be wearing, say, brune because he's going to cut them down so short, the Aussie will be missing. It'll just be. What's this new outfit? Oh, this is my new sponsor, Broom.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Really?

[Adrian]

Yeah.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Do some informative stuff. Let the people know that there's important things happening in the world.

[Adrian]

What's happening at the. The Vanderspay house on Christmas morning?

[Jason Van der Spee]

A whole lot of nothing. We're gonna have a morning with the elderly people, celebrate some lovely things, open a couple presents, and then as the day continues, probably just resume life as normal. Christmas in Cape Town is rather uneventful, to be honest, because it's like 35 degrees, blazing hot in the middle of summer. It doesn't really have the feel to it, you know.

[Ben]

Last question and it's a yes or no answer and then we'll let you go. Has your father, David Van der Spee, recovered from the fact that I beat him in the Wu Battle Royale?

[Jason Van der Spee]

No.

[Ben]

Secured my place successfully?

[Jason Van der Spee]

No.

[Ben]

For round two?

[Jason Van der Spee]

No. He does not take losses lightly. He's a.

[Ben]

He's a sore loser.

[Jason Van der Spee]

As one would say, like father, like son.

[Adrian]

Speaking of sore losers, Jason, I went to your apartment where the Lambreck sisters are staying, and I think it's official. We need to take over that from next year. It's a good place. It's a great place. It's a great place, actually. What's going on?

[Jason Van der Spee]

A little boxing match between Nicole and Ben on the beach during Coda. A little auction place.

[Adrian]

It's gonna be an ass whipping.

[Jason Van der Spee]

I think, honestly, it just come. Yeah. I don't know. We'll have to see. I really have to see, to be honest, boys. It's a nice place.

[Adrian]

The fate. The place is not fit for a queen. But it is.

[Ben]

Okay. No, Jason has to pay for this sort of promotion. This is.

[Adrian]

He's got it wrapped up with the Lambrex for you.

[Ben]

Available all year.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Three bedrooms, sleep six feet.

[Ben]

No, no, no, don't listen to him. It's a horrible place. You can't find it on Airbnb. It's not on there.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Fully booked, so.

[Ben]

Good.

[Jason Van der Spee]

Really.

[Ben]

Okay, thank you, Jason, and we'll talk to you soon.

[Adrian]

Bye. Bye. Legend.

[Ben]

He is a legend, isn't he? I just. In these last few weeks, I've been thinking, like, obviously, about what we're going to be doing in Japan, and I've jumped into some of the pro episodes. We did, and he had. We spoke so little to him about what we were planning on doing. I just had. I just trusted that he would be good. I gave him woefully small amounts of direction and information needed. Like, he didn't even know. He didn't even know about the Hadlow pro kites. But he turned up. We were like, oh, yeah, you're going to use these. There's eight of them. Yeah. And there's going to be. You're going to fly two at once.

[Adrian]

And he was just like, yep, sweet. How many guys would just say no? And that's the thing, you know, a lot of guys that we know, you put them in that situation that I just say, no, I'm not doing that. You know, I don't want to. I don't want. I'm just too. I don't want to be injured. I'm too scared. You know, that happens a lot, man. And that's just the kind of guy. Well, that's why we like to do this with Jason Wright, because he's such a legend and he's up for anything. And I wonder if his I think.

[Ben]

You might have spoken out a turn there somewhat.

[Adrian]

I'll take that part out. I'll just bleep it.

[Ben]

Okay, so fantasy, the results are in. The winner of the overall thing. We announced it on the post show, didn't we? So you've all, you've all heard it already, but that winner is going to be going to none other than Makani Beach Club for an incredibly nice time and they're going to be having a week's free accommodation and a week's free kite lessons or gear rental. That's pretty good, isn't it?

[Adrian]

How many of them are doing kite lessons? I guess it's. Most people are going to be using rental owned storage. Right. Well, maybe, maybe you can get some advanced lessons. I think it's probably. I know Chemo. Look, I mean there's great coaches there like Chemo Mahmoud. Chemo who's like, you know, fourth on the freestyle world tour. Great big air rider as well. He's there doing it. Advanced coaching, I think. I think some of the younger kids from Nicole's former Rising stars program are doing advanced coaching there. So yeah, it's a. It's an awesome place to not just kite but also upskill yourself, I guess.

[Ben]

So Andreas Wolfender is the winner and I'm just reading here, Adrian. He's getting married in January and he's going to hope to use this, this prize for his honeymoon.

[Adrian]

Mate, I love this guy. This is the guy after my own heart. Darling. Honeymoon. We're going. I hope she's a kite border. Hey, maybe he hasn't told her that he's won it. He's like for, for our honeymoon, the first part. I'm gonna take us to Egypt.

[Ben]

I've got his number here. Should we try and ring him? Let's try and ring him.

[Adrian]

What's his number? I'm gonna.

[Ben]

I'm gonna text you it. Go on, try and ring him. Hey, I think he's Swiss because his. I think he's Swiss.C. What is.ch that's Swiss, isn't it? Yeah, that's his email.

[Adrian]

Okay. Radio. Let me plug this in. Road. Should I just. Should I just. Should we cold call him?

[Ben]

Yeah, obviously. How are we going to warm call him?

[Adrian]

No, I'm gonna say, hey, man, it's Adrian here. Can you take a call?

[Ben]

Oh, yeah, okay. Warm call him.

[Adrian]

Well, I have warm call him. It's not answering, so we're gonna have to cold call him.

[Ben]

Yeah, no cold call him.

[Adrian]

What's his name?

[Ben]

Andreas.

[Adrian]

Mate, looking at his Photos there with his fiance. Come on, Andreas.

[Ben]

What time is it in Switzerland? Must be 9:30. He's probably at work.

[Adrian]

I couldn't give him monkeys. No, it's later man.

[Ben]

It's probably 10:30 on a Wednesday.

[Adrian]

That was just an insight to when we call these guys online, we've already pre organized it because they answer within two calls. That's what happens when they don't answer.

[Ben]

Is that exciting for you all to hear? No doubt.

[Adrian]

This is behind the scenes. Zero editing. Except for when I have to take out the little faux pas about Jason.

[Ben]

Jason Van Career moves career or not. Or not.

[Adrian]

Well, I think that's, I mean I, I, I don't think people are going to be surprised, right?

[Ben]

It's not common knowledge, Adrian. It's really not.

[Adrian]

I know, but I don't think people are going to be surprised what's happening. I mean, dude, what about Cabrina? What are you hearing about Cabrina? I mean it is a legendary brand. A legendary brand in the industry is mate, the writers are just jumping ship faster than the rats off the Titanic.

[Ben]

What about Hannah Whiteley? She saw that.

[Adrian]

Where else is she going?

[Ben]

Is she still there?

[Adrian]

She's still there.

[Ben]

Yeah, well that's exactly. They've got their titan, who cares. But don't need anyone else if you've.

[Adrian]

Got Hannah Whiteley, Nick Jacobson, Liam Whaley, Andre Philippe, even Tom Bridge rode for them. Jesse Richmond wrote for them back in the day. You know, Stino, recent times, I mean they had a. Have had legends of the sport riding for that brand. Are we, are we on the final days?

[Ben]

That's not how the kiteboarding industry works. Adrian.

[Adrian]

I'm asking you just opinion.

[Ben]

Yeah, my opinion is no, it's not final days because that's not how this world works. It doesn't matter how badly things go, they carry on.

[Adrian]

Doesn't matter how bad things go, they just carry on. Is that in particular to kiteboarding or just life?

[Ben]

No, kiteboarding. I think in many other industries and businesses you'd see a much more rapid turnover of brands and disappearance of brands. But people really love kiteboarding. It's part of their identity and their souls. And I think the people behind Cabrinha love kiteboarding and want to make it work. That's it impression I get without doing any research.

[Adrian]

No, I'm just whatsoever.

[Ben]

Just ask journalism, good journalism.

[Adrian]

I mean kiteboarding. What I like most about kiteboarding, it's really tribal, right? You know, if you're a duotone rider, you ride duotone tool, someone gives you a cheaper Option. You know, you ride, you know, you ride north because you believe in north. You ride F1 because you're with F1. It's just the way people are. And Cabrina always had that right. They always had super loyal people. And you still see 2018 switchblades. We saw them and we saw them in, in Cape Town this year, mate.

[Ben]

The switchblade is and the moto are everywhere in the uk. Everywhere. They're so, so cheap here. Actually, during the blank kite test, by the way, which is coming out next week, during the filming of it in the uk, a podcast listener came over and was like, like, oh, my word, are you doing what I think you're doing? Because we had all the kites on the beach in hailing. And he comes over and he. And he must have walked, I don't know, a kilometer across the beach because it was low tide to get to us. And I was like, oh, how's that kite? And it was a Cabrino bought from King of Water Sports for not much money at all. And he was like. He was like, so this guy is so good. I got two for £900. And I was just like.

[Adrian]

And are they brand new?

[Ben]

Yeah, yeah, brand new. It's cheaper than. It's the cheapest I've ever seen kite. And it's not just, you know, this is not an unproven kite. This is a really, really good kite. What?

[Adrian]

The switchblade is good enough to jump off the bloody bergilave. You know, it's one of kick in the air. It's unbelievable.

[Ben]

It's epic. Epic kite. So much history. The Cabrino brand is one of the strongest in kiteboarding. It is epic.

[Adrian]

Remember when Nick Jacobson released the. What was that kite? And it was. He was like, in Cape Town fighting some bro. That's the fx. I don't know if that's still online, but have a look for it. It's probably one of the worst kite videos I think I've ever seen in my life. Nick versus. It's Nick versus the Beastie Boys. Basically. It's a. It's the Beastie Boy rip off Nick Jacobson versus Beastie Boys. Was it a dinosaur or dragon?

[Ben]

Yeah, I can't remember. Yeah, but they did some epic stuff. But that, that wasn't it at that point. Yeah, right, okay. But he was swinging for the fences.

[Adrian]

Sure.

[Ben]

And like, you have to make a few terrible things. Like, we know that. You know, you have to make a few shockers if you're gonna make anything good.

[Adrian]

And we've Made our share.

[Ben]

Don't you worry about that.

[Adrian]

People are saying, well, looks like this one. They're coming out, man. Is it going to be the rocks or diamonds with us? Right. There's more rocks and diamonds, but the diamonds are good. Carry on. Sorry for the fences.

[Ben]

Do I hope Karina disappears? Absolutely not. I hope that one stays. Do I think in general it'd be good for the kiteboarding industry if some of the brands disappeared? Yeah, I do. Because these brands on their knees are way more willing to act recklessly with their pricing and they can do like real harm across the whole industry. That's, you know, the remainder of which is healthy. So that is my opinion.

[Adrian]

Kite Mana Man, I'll tell you what, Kite Mana have done an amazing job and, you know, we've spoken to Tom a few times and he's a really interesting guy.

[Ben]

But that's the founder of Kite Man.

[Adrian]

Yeah, founder of Cope Mana. He's tapped in and capitalized on. He's basically like a share trader. He's. He's trading in the highs and lows of. Of the industry. Right. You know, when there's an opportunity, he's all over it. When there's a. When there's a downturn, you know, he's. He's all over that as well. Right. He's done a super good job. And if you ever get a chance to go to Kaitmana, I mean, probably don't get to go upstairs, but if you. Upstairs is just. It's just incredible amount of gear and kites and stuff he's got for sale there. It's. It's pretty cool.

[Ben]

Yeah. Impressive. He's an impressive entrepreneur, isn't he? And somewhere where we go and we all feel pretty inspired, honestly. I walk in there and I'm like. Or here's a set of people that really love their jobs and. Yeah, and it's passionate and full of energy and it's just epic, isn't it?

[Adrian]

I think it's really cool because, I mean, we, we use it as our sort of office when we're there, you know, he's so completely welcoming and hospitable to us, which is great. But I love that if you work for Kite Mano, I think he gives you a K. I think you get a KSN membership, right? As KSN is the. The water sports club where the Megaloop was held this year. I think that's part of your deal that, you know, you're encouraged to get you. He gives, he pays for the membership, which is super cool. Really because that's probably. I don't know what that costs, but I'm. I'm sure it's something.

[Ben]

Sure it's something. Good journalism there again.

[Adrian]

Well, no, I don't want to get.

[Ben]

Them out the park this morning.

[Adrian]

I mean, knowing Holland, it's probably bloody expensive. But I mean, it's, it's pretty awesome that, you know, you got an employee who wants to look after his employees and that keeps all excited about kite boarding as well, which is. Was also pretty cool, you know.

[Ben]

Indeed. What, what next, Agent man?

[Adrian]

What was that biggest story of this year was for you?

[Ben]

Oh.

[Adrian]

What was the biggest story of the year?

[Ben]

I mean, the whole Jamie Overbeat journey.

[Adrian]

I've got that as number one on my list.

[Ben]

Yeah, but not just Jamie not getting into Kota. I think Jamie leaving F1, Jamie signing with a shop, Jamie choosing and a large array of gear going with predominantly duotone it seems, but also some strange.

[Adrian]

Harlem kites as well.

[Ben]

Elements element. I've never even heard of them putting them on the map and looping them foil kites and then obviously the, the unfairness of King of the Air and not being in and whatever. So, yeah, Jamie Overbeak, probably the biggest story of this year, the most compelling.

[Adrian]

We haven't really seen the best of Jamie when it comes to being independent yet because we did see him in Lords of Tram and he got knocked out by Jeremy in the semi final who went on to win, which is totally cool. We got knocked out by Cohen. I can't remember now, but we've never really seen the best of him. I felt, you know, I was thinking coda, okay, he's going to come into a hair. He's probably going to be dialed in with his gear a little bit more. But again, we didn't get to see that. So when I saw Jamie in Cape Town a few times, he was always just happy. And, you know, Jamie's a. Just a happy guy. He doesn't seem to be upset. The family's more. The family's more pissed off. The mum and Jamie totally cool. The dad wild. But I mean, in a good way. But Peter's just, he's, you know, he's. He's pissed off for a son. I get it. You know, he's like, it's an eye for an eye for me. I'm like, dude, just relax, man. You know, do you want to buy my knife? You know, just, just take your time. But I think Jamie will come back next year razor focused and, you know, really want to get back to that position. I think. But yeah, that was such a. Interesting story. And every single person I speak to, the first thing they ask about King of the Air. I can't believe Jamie didn't make it. And that's pretty much what everyone's saying to me.

[Ben]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, totally. So, yeah, top story for me. Second. Second biggest story for you. Where are you going?

[Adrian]

I guess Graham Helzer's passing. I think that probably you could argue, say that's the biggest one. But that really rocked the industry and I kind of feel like it changed industry, you know, I mean, you know, especially at the Dirty Habits at the High five there, the Dirty Habit shop. Every day was full with people. Every day there. The grand flags are all over town. DK's design, one with the eye. And it's awesome to see people still remembering. Remembering him. And I guess people are not going to forget that one.

[Ben]

No. Ever. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Okay. Third story.

[Adrian]

Yeah, I mean, it's a story. Unfortunately, it was not a story. Actually. You and I didn't even cover it. We just wrote. We wrote the article, but we chose not to record. Jet sent me a beautiful message to put in, but it just didn't seem right. And I spoke to JET about that and he was completely cool as well. Third biggest story. I'm going to say the. I'm going to say the race to 40. I think that was a lot of fun. Yeah, a lot of people enjoy that. Sort of me and you running around with that little camera and it's sort of a bit chaotic. It sort of comes across. It was only 13 minutes and people like that. I think we should. I don't know if that. Well, I think the rest of 40 is a story. I think the way you and I did that, with that little microphone, people kind of like that as well. So I think that's something we'll bring into.

[Ben]

That was a big downloaded one. Yeah, yeah.

[Adrian]

People like that, you know, people like that sort of, I guess the chaos of the day, you know, comes across in the. In the way it's sort of delivered by me and you, you know.

[Ben]

Yeah. Okay. Well, great. Yeah. 40. 40 meters. Can you. I can't imagine. I was about to ask you if you can imagine, but I know you can't.

[Adrian]

No. 40. I just don't understand how these guys are so comfortable at that height and.

[Ben]

They'Re like, I don't want to go more than 20. I honestly don't want it. I don't want it. I will feel so uncomfortable. The risk is so high. Yeah, Amazing. Amazing. And so cool that a young up and comer did it. And yeah, we're. We're Big Wiggles fans.

[Adrian]

That's his new nickname. Hey, Red Bull. King of the Air qualifiers, hit or miss for you?

[Ben]

Miss big time, eh?

[Adrian]

I just don't think the writers really gave a. The. The Cold Hawaii Games. I, you know, I love cold Hawaii. I think it's one of the big ones on the, on the, on the calendar. It's just a shame that they have the word qualifier in there. I kind of feel like it cheapens it. But that's the only one I feel like the guys really commit to because it's a, it's an event that they want to win.

[Ben]

Yeah, it's a big one.

[Adrian]

I just think the other ones are. Well, now all the riders are going to ride. If they do it again, all the riders will ride. And I, I hear talks that there might be an event in Taiwan. I don't know if that's public knowledge, but if you told me that and it's quiet, I'm sorry, but they're looking at Taiwan for one.

[Ben]

I've heard that from multiple things as well, so you can say that. Yeah. I think there's a few problems with the qualifier series. The first one being that no one was told that your results in the qualifiers across them all would.

[Adrian]

Or commitment to the qualifiers.

[Ben]

Yeah. Would affect your ability to get into the King of the Air. Hence Jamie Overbeek and Hugo Wigglesworth not making it. The second problem is no live stream. But I think even if you didn't have a live stream, but you just. The writers were made aware that it was important. I think there'd be. I think it is an awesome series of events there that they will take really seriously. The next big story has to be the first women's mega loop competition happening and Zara Huggenrod taking that out on home turf in Holland. And it was pretty epic, really. Major dramas through the day. Francesca Maney had a crash so big her helmet blew off her head. Natalie Lambreck looking really strong and actually kind of setting the momentum to then go on to win King of the Air. Zara, she's already won a world championship. She's already done a boogie double loop on the buzzer. But this, for me, I know she doesn't think it's bigger than a world championship, but for me, it was, it was like everyone is watching this event and you've put it together when it really, really mattered. And drawing on all her experience from Big Air, from Big air Kite League to gka, to. To these major Red Bull events all came together for her and that was a major, major story for me.

[Adrian]

Yeah, absolutely. I mean, I think just the development and I want to say the competition, competition hardness of the woman is impressing me. You know, I do, I just, I do feel like from 6 to 10, we're getting lighter in, in, in ability. And then from 10 to 20, I think it's where. I think the girls are probably pretty shallow there, which seems to me like we've dropped off a bit. I think during the highlights of the big air kite league, where you were having bigger 12 person ladies. I hope that the, the GKA with the two stops, one in Lords of Tram and one in Mykonos, which I'm also excited about, I hope they can extend those fields to a little bit more. I'd like to see them start building that up. You can't just keep doing six because there's probably eight girls who are qualified at that level. So I'd like to see them extend that. If they can do that to 9 or push it to 12, I think that would be the next step for, for the GKA and then obviously let Red Bull sort of follow suit. GK will be up first, then Red Bull. That would be cool. And maybe a cold Hawaii ladies fleet, I think is probably the next step. And I think that, honestly, I think that would fill up the ladies pretty good. Two world championships, the Mega Loop, the King of the Air and a cold Hawaii. That's five stops for the girls. I think it's about right. I honestly, I think. I know there's. Oh, we want as many as possible. It's just there's too much commitment on, on the riders and I think five great and well run stops for me is the sweet spot. And I guess you can take that for the boys too. That's going to be very similar for the boys unless these qualifiers happen and guys are having to get on planes and go to different areas to qualify. Yeah, we'll see.

[Ben]

Indeed.

[Adrian]

You think, you think the qualifiers are going to happen again? What's your gut feeling when you think about those qualifiers? You think they'll run it again?

[Ben]

Yeah, I think there'll be a couple. Also, you mentioned there the two GKA stops for 20, 26, Bing, Lorza, Tram and Mykonos, both unconfirmed. But if Mykonos happens, that's a really great opportunity. Like, that spot is epic. You've seen it in dot zip. You've seen it in our blank test. With Lorenzo that we did there.

[Adrian]

It's legit and amazing viewing, by the way. You don't have to sit on the beach. You can sit up and down the road, up and down the sides of the road, which goes. I mean, basically the jumpers guys will be jumping straight towards you. There's no view in kiteboarding like that. There's nothing like that. You're never going to have a view like that in kiteboarding. Mykonos, fun place to be. I don't know the dates of. I think it's early in the season. I think it's in the spring, so probably the best time to go because as soon as summer comes on, it gets way too busy, way too expensive.

[Ben]

Let's have another couple of stories after this. What have you got?

[Adrian]

Another one of my favorite stories was Liam Whaley returning to competition after a long break and actually bloody doing so well at the Lords of Tram. Didn't continue on. He was actually in a couple of these fleets, but, you know, didn't. Didn't really push on. So I. I think we're probably seeing the end of Liam, but if we did see him come back from his injury to do one event, I think that's probably what he wanted to do, right? Just prove he can still compete at the highest level and then. And then get out. I don't know if he's going to compete again. I. I would doubt it.

[Ben]

He still sends a shiver down the spine of every opponent, doesn't he?

[Adrian]

You see Al Wayli, Spain, it's like. It's like being on the same side of the drawers. Alcaraz. Oh, got that bloody Spanish bastard. What about for you? Here's a good one for you, man. Your dream come true. And the Aaron Hadlow Blank kite test come out at the start of the year.

[Ben]

Yeah, that was a big dream for.

[Adrian]

You to shoot with Aaron.

[Ben]

It was, yeah, an honor, a great honor. And to do it in across multiple locations was really cool, too. In the UK and Brazil, we had some awesome kites in there that were unreleased at the time and kind of coming through in drips, weren't they? Kites that we've seen have come to dominate this year, like the Slingshot NXT is the kite, the Alula kite that everyone talks about in Cape Town. That's the kite to be on at the moment. And it did really well in that test. And the F1 trigger as well was the Brainchild one. And it's been like that and the Harlem Peak this year that have been on the lips of Everyone, haven't they? So, yeah. Not only did we have an epic, legendary tester, but we also had had the right kites at the right time. So that was. That was special too. Yeah. Our most popular blank kite test to date by a mile. And it does set some pressure on this upcoming one that's coming up next week. But I've just watched actually the first draft of the first episode and it's sick.

[Adrian]

I think you're gonna like this. It's. It's super cool. It's. It's a fun test, this one as well. Another. Wow. All these things are coming to my mind. We also did something different this year. We did the Queen's Parade, a bus tour around London. We really branched out this year. I always should be putting.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Adrian]

Myself on the back there.

[Ben]

It's the last bit of horn tooting we do. Yeah. That was fun because we accidentally promised Francesca that if she would. If she did win Kenya, we'd take her on a stupid bus tour. So we had to do it. And so we did it and it was really expensive, but it was quite fun. I mean, I didn't enjoy it, but I think other people did.

[Adrian]

She enjoyed it. That's the most. She enjoyed it the most. She enjoyed it. She loved it.

[Ben]

Yeah. That's good. It's not my cup of tea, but Steezy Pete loved it, didn't he?

[Adrian]

Yeah. That was before he took his all powering almighty job. He, you know, it was his last hurrah. Now he has to keep the lid on stuff. But I'm looking forward to seeing Steezy Pete and it's going to be fun to be back around that person. Those people, all of them, everybody.

[Ben]

Indeed, indeed. Do you think Jetto's forgotten that we are coming? He might need a little nudge.

[Adrian]

Absolutely. I'll get on to that after. I'll send him a Christmas message and say, hey, we need to speak in the few days after Christmas.

[Ben]

Yeah.

[Adrian]

Because he will have done nothing that I've asked him.

[Ben]

That will be true. Yeah, I can guarantee that. Okay. Okay. This is kind of the first year that the gong kind of brand and name got a bit louder in everyone's minds.

[Adrian]

Yeah. 2026 is going to be interesting to see how gong goes. Right.

[Ben]

I thought it was going to make more of a noise in 2025 though, honestly, I thought like, wow, at that price point, I think they're on the charge. But honestly, other kite brands like Cabrino, we've said before, and north as well, have been unbelievably. Cheap. So they've actually been more competitive than them.

[Adrian]

So I think that's Ayrton's on Gong. Right. So. But I still feel like they haven't got that, you know, that big star power signing.

[Ben]

No one cares about Ayrton Cozolino these days. They just don't.

[Adrian]

But what I'm saying is I don't feel like they've got that big star power. I know Baby Shark was talking about going there. I don't believe that's going to happen. But if they had signed someone like that, I think a lot more people would be like, holy shit. I know that you saw Parallax there, but again, you saw Still Building his name. Right. He's not. Not. He's not the same name as a Baby Shark. He's not that sort of big guy just yet. But I. I'm still waiting for that big marquee signing if I'm sure they're going after them. They've got Craig Cunningham, who used to be the team manager for Duartone, working there now, so he'll be going after guys. But it'll be interesting to see if for them to get to that next level, they need to have a big name in competition with those kites performing.

[Ben]

Yeah, I'm not sure the kite is there yet to be at the very top. I think the kite's there for. We can work for. For their customers. I think. I think. I think that's fine.

[Adrian]

But have you ever tried to launch or land the air toe with the gel double skin in like 35 knots or even windier? It's actually kind of scary because normally when a kite comes down, doesn't matter, 40, 50. You can just get your fingers around the leading edge and it's not going anywhere. But. But you imagine that you're just grabbing something that's slippery because you cannot get your fingers around it. And it is a very. I guess it's a nervous feeling, is the best way to say it, because you don't really feel like you've got in control of the kite.

[Ben]

Sure. Yeah. And he's talking because it's a double. Is double skin. So instead of the leading edge and the canopy being attached in one place, there's two. So it fills up that cavity.

[Adrian]

Yeah. I had my hand on the back and then I was actually just holding one of the bridles, front bridles, just to control it for use. That was quite interesting. I wonder if that's maybe something they've never really thought about. Not that I'M a professional kite launcher, but it made me feel off.

[Ben]

It points.

[Adrian]

It made me feel nervous in that. In that strong winds, that I didn't get a good. I don't. I didn't have a good grip on the kite, you know.

[Ben]

Okay.

[Adrian]

Merry Christmas.

[Ben]

Jolly good. Yeah. Thank you, mate. Thank you. Wish me luck. On the.

[Adrian]

To a Christmas live on Instagram.

[Ben]

Quick.

[Adrian]

Christmas Live. Since we're basically live specialists now, do we have to.

[Ben]

Okay, yeah. On Christmas Day.

[Adrian]

Why not? Okay, you call me from bed. I'll get back in bed. Morning.

[Ben]

Okay. Okay, yeah, we'll do that. We'll do that. I don't know why, but we will. Okay. Oh, and we'll do. We'll be on Instagram to get. What? Yeah, okay. I understand what you mean. Okay, guys, that's probably enough of all of this. There's nothing else to mention, is there? I mean, we've done a pretty vague job of the main stories and talked about. Well, we spoke to Jason. That was nice, wasn't it? Okay, that's it. Thank you to us, as always. Don't know if that was a good episode or not, but it's too late now. And we'll see you in the next one, which. Oh, ham. We'll see you. Oh, I get it. Because next Thursday is the 25th, and that's when. So are we gonna do a Christmas Eve episode?

[Adrian]

No, we're gonna go live on Instagram.

[Ben]

Okay, got you, got you, got you. Okay, well, we'll see you on Instagram. Yeah, look forward to that. Look forward to that, guys. Until then, thank you, as always. Goodbye.