King of the Chair || Sitting down with: Willem Hooft | Kitemana HANGTIME Podcast

Summary

In this inspiring podcast episode, William Hof, also known as the 'King of the Chair', shares his remarkable journey of overcoming a life-altering motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed. Despite his challenges, William pursued his passion for kiteboarding, leading to innovative developments in adaptive gear and the creation of his foundation to promote sit-kiteboarding. His story highlights the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the potential for individuals to push boundaries, even in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• 🌊 William Hof, also known as the 'King of the Chair,' is an inspiring figure in the kiteboarding community who continued to pursue his passion despite a life-changing accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.
• 🏄‍♂️ William's accident in 2016 led him to start kiteboarding, showing that a severe setback can mark the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of one's life.
• 🏖️ Cape Town is a favorite location for William due to its beautiful views and excellent kiteboarding conditions, but also the presence of large sharks in the water.
• 🛠️ William has been involved in developing lighter and safer gear for sit-kiteboarding, improving the equipment for those with physical disabilities to enjoy the sport.
• 📈 William's progression in sit-kiteboarding has been rapid, from learning to sit kite to performing impressive tricks and loops on the water.
• 🤝 William's friend Ruben introduced him to Cheri Smitter, a key figure in his development in sit-kiteboarding, highlighting the importance of community support.
• 💡 William's foundation, the Willo Foundation, aims to make sit-kiteboarding accessible to people with physical disabilities and to develop a lesson program for sit-kiteboarding schools worldwide.
• 📚 William authored a book titled 'No Wave Too High,' sharing his journey and insights from multiple perspectives, including his friends, ex-girlfriend, and even the person involved in the accident that paralyzed him.
• 🗣️ William also works as a motivational speaker, discussing topics such as dealing with change, overcoming setbacks, and personal leadership.
• 🏆 William's vision for the future includes seeing sit-kiteboarding become a Paralympic sport and integrating it into major events like King of the Air and Red Bull Mega Loop.
• 💰 The William Hof Foundation is organizing a fundraiser event called 'Wheels to Waves' in the Netherlands to support their mission of making sit-kiteboarding more accessible.

Q & A

Who is the guest in this episode of the Kite Mana hangtime podcast?

The guest in this episode is Willam Hof, also known as the King of the Chair.

What significant event happened in Willam Hof's life that led to his paralysis?

Willam Hof had a life-changing motorbike accident 3 years ago that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

How did Willam Hof continue his passion for water sports after his accident?

Despite his paralysis, Willam Hof pursued kiteboarding and has been adapting the sport for people with similar physical challenges.

What is the name of the foundation that Willam Hof started, and what is its purpose?

The foundation is called the Willo Foundation, and its purpose is to make seated water sports like sit kiteboarding accessible for people with physical disabilities.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by sit kiteboarders compared to stand-up kiteboarders?

Sit kiteboarders are fully strapped onto the board, making it difficult to release in case of emergencies. They also lack the suspension and balance provided by legs, which can make falls more dangerous.

How has Willam Hof contributed to the development of gear for sit kiteboarding?

Willam Hof has worked on making the gear lighter, safer, and more user-friendly for sit kiteboarding, including developing a smaller board for flatter landings and reduced impact.

What is the name of the book Willam Hof wrote, and what does it cover?

The book is titled 'No Wave Too High,' and it covers Willam Hof's journey and experiences after his accident, including insights from various people affected by the accident.

What is the fundraiser event that the Willo Foundation is organizing to raise funds?

The Willo Foundation is organizing a fundraiser event called 'Wheels to Waves,' which involves a downwind from Norvik to Amoda in the Netherlands.

What is Willam Hof's vision for the future of sit kiteboarding?

Willam Hof's vision is to see sit kiteboarding grow into a Paralympic sport and be integrated into events like King of the Air and Red Bull Mega Loop, with a sit kiteboarding division called King of the Chair.

How can people participate in the Wheels to Waves fundraiser event?

People can participate in the Wheels to Waves fundraiser event by registering for €50, which includes their own personal fundraiser link, and they will also get to enjoy an after-party on the beach.

What is the timeframe for the Wheels to Waves event?

The Wheels to Waves event is planned to take place between the 8th of April and the 3rd of May, depending on the best wind and weather conditions.