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Meet Justin Chait, the adventurous owner of Gnarly Harley Adventures and Flite Performance Team rider. Justin's passion for extreme water sports has taken him to new heights, and this time, he geared up for an electrifying eFoil race in the vibrant city of Dubai. Hosted by Blue Safari and eSurf Watersports, this event was all about skill, speed, and the joy of sharing the stoke riding in a futuristic way.
Racing eFoils requires a unique set of skills and training. Justin, being a Flite Performance Team rider and owner of one of the best eFoil companies in Florida, has grasped the art of riding these electric hydrofoils. With countless hours dedicated to perfecting his technique, Justin has developed an unparalleled understanding of balance, speed, and maneuverability on the water.
Justin often practices in diverse water conditions to ensure he can adapt to any race environment, whether it's calm lakes, choppy coastal waves or nasty inlets. He also studies the latest advancements in eFoil technology to stay ahead of the competition, constantly tweaking his equipment for optimal performance.
As part of the Flite Performance Team, Justin collaborates with other top riders, sharing insights and strategies that push the boundaries of what's possible in eFoil racing. His dedication to the sport is evident not only in his personal success but also in his commitment to mentoring aspiring eFoil enthusiasts, helping them unlock their potential and passion for this exhilarating sport.
As an avid watersports athlete, Justin’s journey to Dubai for the eFoil race was not just about competition; it was a quest for new experiences, growing the community and exploring new waters. Justin's commitment to growing the sport in the racing world has inspired many.
Dubai offered the perfect opportunity to do that, adding a unique flavor to the event. With its iconic skyline, warm waters, and a perfect blend of tradition and luxury, Dubai provided a breathtaking backdrop for the eFoil community. Participants not only competed in the race but also had the chance to explore the city's vibrant culture and lifestyle. They even attempted to brake a world record of over 20+ eFoilers in a group ride, hunted for dolphins and rode under the Burj Al Arab.
It is clear that electric hydrofoiling (eFoiling) represents the future of watersports. An exhilarating and eco-friendly way to explore our waterways. With a sleek board and a quiet, efficient electric motor, eFoiling allows riders to glide smoothly above the water's surface, providing an unparalleled sense of freedom and excitement. This innovative sport not only appeals to thrill-seekers but also to those who appreciate the serenity and beauty of nature.
Its growing popularity is evident in the increasing number of eFoiling communities around the world, where enthusiasts share tips, tricks, and tales of their own adventures. Manufacturers are continuously innovating, improving battery life and board design to enhance performance and accessibility for riders of all skill levels.
Blue Safari and eSurf Watersports, the local shops known for offering water sports and fostering a community of enthusiasts, were the perfect host for this high-stakes eFoil race. The anticipation in the air was palpable as riders from around the world gathered to showcase their skills and compete for the title. And of course, the pressure on Justin for being the top pick rider was on.
Facing Challenges in Dubai:
The Dubai eFoil race brought its own set of challenges, from being abruptly cancelled by the local authorities…
To rushing to set up the racecourse again…
Despite the unexpected hurdles the race was truly remarkable and a step forward towards growing this new sport.
And while a missed buoy may have led to Justin’s disqualification in the semifinals, his unmatched speed has earned him the title of fastest eFoiler in the world.
If you ask me, a missed buoy should have been 10+ sec penalty time not a disqualification. What do you think?
Watch his race live (courtesy of @tomcourt)
You can see the sadness in Tom’s face but deep down masking his relief. He didn’t have to go head to head with Justin anymore 😅
Learning from Setbacks
Every athlete faces setbacks, and Justin is no exception. The missed buoy in this race serves as a valuable lesson, a stepping stone for future triumphs.
How did he handle it? I think pretty well, but you can judge for yourself.
In the mean time, Justin will keep training and pushing the boundaries of his Fliteboard Ultra. The world can expect even more thrilling and competitive eFoil races in the years to come. Stay tuned!
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