Matchu (Marciel) Lopes Almeida
/
Cape Verde
FOLLOW ME
www.mariorodwald.com
Date of birth:
1991.04.05
Hometown:
Kiel, Germany
Sponsors:
Gaastra,
XS Power Drink,
Sparkasse Mittelholstein,
Kitereisen.com,
Xcel Wetsuits,
Palm Royale Soma Bay,
Hobbies:
Surf, RC planes
Favourite athletes:
Muhammad Ali and Kelly Slater
BIO
In 2001 as a 10 year old boy I fell in love with kiteboarding. Ever since I was dreaming of travelling the world and push the limits of the sport. After finishing school in 2010 I fulfilled my dream and followed the World cup ever since. Winning 3 European and 8 German Titles means a lot to me!
Nevertheless every freeride session or new trick can make me just as happy. During the World cup in 2014 I broke most of the ligaments in my left knee which turned my world upside down for a while. Now I am on my way back and I feel so much motivation and inspiration. Until I learn the new tricks which are popping up in my head I will travel the world and discover new spots.
INTERVIEW
What are you looking for to accomplish?
There is much I want to accomplish but I don’t think of it as a bucket list. Rather I enjoy the process of inspiration and creation. For sure my biggest goal is to come back stronger after my knee injury! Despite that I wish to travel the world and build the best gear for my style of riding.
What would be your greatest achievement?
To land a new trick this year after my enormous knee injury in 2014.
What kind of difficulties does your sport’s performance involve?
Like any other board sport the level of technique and power multiplied over the past years. For sure it is about keeping up and pushing the limits but it´s also a lot about defining the sport by your very own style.
What makes you feel satisfied when performing your sport?
There are many things which I enjoy to the fullest. Sticking a trick perfectly, a session with your best mate, winning a comp or riding in front of a special scenery can produce a lot of endorphins!
Where do you practice your techniques when being alone?
In my head. Riding is way more fun with friends – when I am alone I prefer to visualize tricks in my head.
What do you do during your training which is key to your success?
Smile!
What are you most nervous about when competing?
Most nervous I am when preparing all my gear. I want it to be perfect and also prepared for any conditions – if so I can fully focus and get sharp for the comp.
Who would you say is your biggest fan and why?
I guess my parents. Definitely I am their biggest fan.
What is the best piece of advice you have been ever given?
Don´t give up when making your dreams come true. By my parents.
What are your future plans?
Get into the best shape ever, travel the world and design incredible gear with Gaastra. Oh – and enjoy every moment of it.
What are your tips for those who begin now?
Please, please take kite lessons and don´t just rock up on the beach trying to launch the kite. After your first lessons have a look around and be inspired by wakestyle, big air or the waves and have fun.
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