25 Sept 2009, by Laurel

There is something incredibly rewarding about acheiving dreams, reaching success, doing what it is we set out to accomplish....

Even better is taking the time to reflect and appreciate our milestones. Typing this I am perched on the deck of the Flying Boat Beach Bar here in Aitutaki (Cook Islands - South Pacific) with the world's most beautiful lagoon stretched in a sea of blues, greens and whites sparkling in front of me. Just beside me - LEK Aitutaki - pink LEK flags and logo proudly flying in the breeze.

For years I have dreamed about having more than one kiteboarding school. This particular goal was espically important to me, as I love to travel, share my passion for kiteboarding, and have new challenges. 2 months ago, after long hard hours of preparation by our amazing team, I opened the second LEK location here, and my vision became reality.

Being here with my amazing team Al and Kelly, on the stunningly gorgeous Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa (our home here in Aituaki) has been just THE BEST. As if that was not good enough, lets add in the Cindy Mosey Island Odyssey event we just finished yesterday.

A totally empowering amazing and awesome gathering of women kiteboarders who joing together with a single focused goal in our minds - improve our riding. Its wild to see what focus and intensity can create.

The event was a resounding success, thanks to my partner here - The Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa - coming in as a 11th hour sponsor and providing great luxury accommodation for the ladies...not to mention the inspirational leadership of Cindy, and the phenomenal riding of Ania....

Stay tuned to a kiteboarding magazine near you for the full trip story, but now, as the girls have departed, the day's work is done, I sit and watch the sunset and the clouds pass overhead, mango pineapple smoothie in my hand and a huge smile on my face I am inspired to take a moment to share my moment.

Not only that but to encourage you all to:

1. Dream big and believe in yourself

2. Come visit us in Aitutaki, it is the trip of a lifetime, this place is PARADISE.

3. Take time to watch the sunset (in particular if you can do so while holding onto a kite during an epic sunset session, to reflect, and to smile.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make this incredible dream a reality!

20 May 09, by Laurel



Ever since Lia at Bestkiteboarding sent me that one video of the base-jumping wingsuit flyers in Europe I have had skydiving and wingsuit on the brain big time.

Not really feeling confident in the idea of skydiving at home in the Dominican Republic I resolved to wait until I was back in the US or in Europe to give it a try.

This spring mini sabbatical away from LEK Cabarete gave me the perfect opportunity to get started.

My first tandem jump was with the crew down at Skydive Spaceland. The whole experience was surreal. Skydiving is FUN.

The thing that really stood out was the similarity between kiteboarding folks and skydivers - cool passionate people who do the sport they love for work because they love it, more than a job its a calling and it shows in the service and the enthusiasm is contagious!

So, bottom line is that I highly recommend trying Skydiving, its a phenomenal experience, and try it with the crew at Skydive Spaceland - because they are awesome.

When its windy kite, when its calm SKYDIVE!

12 May 09, by Laurel

Greetings to the LEK Community!

Just a quick update to ask you all to follow my updates on Twitter....

Laurel on Twitter