Emerging Kite Star Dan Sweeney

Cabrinha UK kicked off the first youth training camps in 2008, culminating in the announcement of a full year sponsorship to one of the lucky riders. Much to 15 year old Dan Sweeney's surprise, his name was called to the podium.

You participated in the first Cabrinha youth program in the UK. Can you tell us a little about it?
I heard about the youth training from a good mate and it was to basically to meet some international team riders such as Andre Phillip, Susi Mai and Dave Hastilow and to help all the youngsters in the UK. But to mostly help and support the future of the younger kids who will make a mark on kitesurfing.  But not just terms of riding but tuning kit, working on profiles and learning new tricks. As the first year of the Cabrinha youth training we didn’t know what to expect but it was really good to meet people your own age, learn new stuff and get your name out there.

At the end of the year, one rider was to be chosen and would receive a year’s contract through Pryde Group UK which encompasses Cabrinha Kites and NPX Wetsuits. I worked extra hard in my riding, media coverage and my profile. Much to my complete surprise at the last BKSA freestyle event of the year, the winner was announced and I won!!! It completely surprised me and I would just like to thank Cabrinha for this amazing opportunity and thanks to all the riders who put me forward for the deal.