Raymond Schweers - from Soest, nestled in the heart of The Netherlands..

In the picturesque town of Soest, nestled in the heart of The Netherlands, a daring pursuit has captured both the attention and admiration of the public. Meet Raymond Schweers, a 37-year-old born in 1985, who's embarked on a journey that defies convention, blending the exhilarating world of wing skating with a challenge to authority.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/6d87ab_a0e762d4a97d49e09db27bf844573325/360p/mp4/file.mp4

"My journey begins with a background deeply rooted in computers, programming, gaming, movies, and music. The allure of digital realms was my sanctuary, until parenthood reshaped my priorities seven years ago. Determined to inject excitement into my life, I embarked on an adventure of saying "yes" to every opportunity, a path that led me to wild camping, speed biking, and ultimately kiting—the gateway to my newfound passion.

The dunes near my hometown became the canvas on which I painted my love for the wind. I was drawn to the power of the elements, the thrill of adrenaline, and the feeling of being truly stoked. This connection with the wind led me to embrace kiting in all its forms. I mastered various kite sizes, explored kite buggies and landboards, and even conquered the waves. A transformative snowkiting experience in Norway showcased the boundless possibilities this sport offered.

However, the time-consuming nature of traditional kiting began to gnaw at me, particularly as family responsibilities grew. The logistical complexities of transporting gear and planning sessions weighed heavily on my pursuit of exhilaration. It was during this quest for streamlined adventure that I stumbled upon an abandoned runway nearby—an open expanse that piqued my curiosity.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/6d87ab_ad22e8f15c144229aa6c315ef9094e46/360p/mp4/file.mp4

As I delved deeper into the idea, I discovered a burgeoning community of individuals who shared my vision. Combining a wing with a skateboard, the concept was simple yet undeniably intriguing. Online videos showcased the potential, and I saw a way to chase the thrill without the logistical encumbrances.

I opted for the North Nova 4.2 wing, chosen for its innovative design that replaced the traditional boomstick and loops with two bars. Paired with my Landyachtz Stratus 46 Hollowtech longboard—an unconventional choice with roots in kitesurfing practice—my setup was complete. The longboard offered a stable yet responsive platform, vital for harnessing the power of the wing.

In my pursuit of wing skating on the abandoned runway, I encountered a familiar obstacle—the authorities. Yet, my passion and the support of the public have shown the potential for community engagement and questioning of norms.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/6d87ab_9b8703dbca7745d59a2c923645b696db/360p/mp4/file.mp4

The perfect conditions for my wing skating endeavors arise when the wind beckons and open spaces unfold. The abandoned runway, despite its contested status, remains my canvas. The unique blend of wind, speed, and an unconventional playground invigorates my spirit. Additionally, I've found enjoyment in occasional wing skating on bicycle lanes and quiet roads near lakes—a different experience that adds to the thrill of this uncharted journey.

In the Netherlands, we're blessed with abundant water and regular winds, a perfect marriage for my newfound love for wind-based sports. My addiction to the wind has me constantly scanning the skies, evaluating the wind's mood, and determining whether I'll be riding on water or gliding on my skateboard. When it's too much for a wing skating session, it's perfect kitesurf weather. But when the wind isn't quite strong enough for kitesurfing, yet there's enough of it, that's when it's perfect for wing skateboarding.

The camaraderie within the wing skating community has been a revelation in itself. Meeting countless kind and cool individuals on this journey has enriched the experience. Sharing the stoke with like-minded souls has brought immense joy. This experience has truly opened my eyes to the power of connection and shared passion.

Looking to the future, my dream extends beyond personal pursuits. I envision wing skating with my children, including my two-year-old son whose emerging hints of interest point towards potential shared adventures. The prospect of fostering a connection with my kids through this exhilarating pursuit is a dream I hold close to my heart.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/6d87ab_4252acb0aa9e4b869b62f013455bd4cc/360p/mp4/file.mp4

A piece of advice I'd like to offer to those interested in wingfoiling: Consider learning wing skateboarding first. This approach can provide a smoother transition to wingfoiling without the influence of water. Starting on land allows you to grasp the fundamentals of wing control and balance in a controlled environment, paving the way for a more confident experience on water.

In essence, my journey has evolved from a computer nerd immersed in digital landscapes to an adventurer challenging authority and pushing the boundaries of conventional sports. The fusion of wing skating and a daring pursuit of my passion has redefined my understanding of freedom and rebellion. As I continue my journey, I'm reminded that sometimes the most potent form of defiance is the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire".

Thanks and respect to Raymond for providing this excellent insightful window into his life of Wing Skating.

IG: @raymondschweers