Learning kitesurfing can change your life, just ask Eusebi Laudes, our new Assistant Trainer. From his first experience with a kite on the beaches of Valencia to teaching kitesurfing professionally in Sri Lanka, his journey is full of passion, adventure, and sliding-door moments.
Kitesurfing: a choice that changed everything
One day, while hanging out with a friend, Eusebi met someone with kitesurfing gear. He was instantly captivated. "You and I are going to be great friends," he said with a smile. And that’s exactly what happened. From that moment on, kitesurfing was no longer just a curiosity; it became part of his life.
From Chef to IKO Instructor: Transforming Passions
Alain Ducasse, the chef with the most Michelin stars in the world (21!) said: “Cooking is an act of love and sharing.” Eusebi left his life as a chef to dedicate the same love and passion to kitesurfing.
In 2016, after years as a chef, Eusebi made the bold decision to leave the kitchen and pursue his passion for kitesurfing full-time, becoming an IKO-certified Instructor. His growing love for the sport had made it clear that cooking was no longer fulfilling, as he felt the chef profession was becoming less rewarding with limited prospects. The jump into teaching kitesurfing wasn’t easy, but it was the perfect fit. Starting as a freelance instructor in Valencia, he soon realized that teaching and living closer to nature were exactly what he needed. This was just the beginning of a new chapter, and his move to Sri Lanka cemented this new direction, where his journey would take off in unexpected and exciting ways.
If you think a chef’s life managing kitchen brigades is irrelevant for becoming a kitesurf instructor, you're mistaken. The skills Eusebi developed as a chef, like staying calm under pressure, leading a team, and making quick decisions, were very helpful in running his kite school and kitesurfing lessons.
The Sliding Doors Moment That Led to the IKO Pro Center MKS - Margarita Kite School
A sliding door moment changed everything. Originally planning to travel to Brazil, Eusebi ended up in Sri Lanka thanks to a friend’s suggestion. The daily wind, calm lagoon, and relaxed vibe captivated him instantly. During that trip, he met Ruben, a fellow Spanish kitesurfer who had already established himself in the area for a few years. Their connection was instant, as was the vision for what would later become MKS - Margarita Kite School. Setting up a business in a new country was challenging, but the consistent wind, Ruben's experience, and their strong relationship made it all possible.
Becoming an IKO Assistant Trainer: Eusebi’s Commitment to Train Future IKO Assistants
From the moment he chose kitesurfing, the path wasn’t easy. It was tough, but worth it. Mastering the ride was tough initially, but those challenges made him believe he had become a better instructor: ” Hehe, it wasn't easy for me at all, guess this is one of the reasons why I became a good instructor.”
Running a kite school in a foreign country was challenging. Starting a school demands time, teamwork, and dedication, and becoming an IKO Pro Center added new responsibilities and recognition to the journey.
And then, Eusebi wasn’t done. "My mission is to help others learn kitesurfing safely and grow as instructors." He applied to become an Assistant Trainer, a key step in his journey in IKO. It required more than technical skills; it meant learning to guide and mentor new IKO Assistants. Speaking in front of groups was intimidating at first, but with practice, Eusebi gained confidence. “I was very nervous initially, but gradually I started to feel more natural.”
IKO Pro Center MKS - Margarita Kite School in Kalpitiya Lagoon: A Kitesurfing Paradise
If you're wondering why Sri Lanka, Eusebi has made it clear.
Sri Lanka, known as "The Tear of India," offers breathtaking landscapes, from beaches and lagoons to lush jungles. Kalpitiya, on the northwest coast, is famous for its steady winds and open spaces, perfect for kitesurfing. The calm, red dirt roads with tropical greenery create a peaceful atmosphere.
The Kalpitiya Lagoon, with its shallow, flat waters and soft sandy beaches, is ideal for beginners and advanced riders. It’s here that MKS - Margarita Kite School calls home. "We create a warm and relaxed environment where everyone feels at home," says Eusebi. Start your day with yoga, catch the wind for a kite session, and unwind with a sunset cocktail.
We love it here, and you would love it too. The vibrant kitesurfing community is constantly growing. "We host events and collaborate with other schools to create a unique kiteboarding destination."
Eusebi’s Key to Success in Kitesurfing
"Believe in yourself! IKO provides a structured, safe learning program that helps anyone start kitesurfing and develop a professional career," he advises. With enough passion and commitment, the possibilities in kitesurfing are endless.
Are you wondering if learning kitesurfing is a good idea? Definitely yes! Remember Eusebi’s story; it could be the start of your new adventure.
