THE KITE TEAM
THE KITE TEAM, The SAKALAVA LODGE team
Coach WAVES IKO #329506
ARLIN
Arlin, the center manager and wave riding coach, is a renowned senior instructor, excellent in both windsurfing and SUP. Patient, structured, and capable of being firm when necessary, he guides students with rigor and kindness. He has been teaching windsurfing since 2007 and kitesurfing since 2008. As the lodge's most experienced instructor, he coordinates all kite and wingfoil activities and ensures the smooth running of courses as well as safety on the water.
Coach BIG AIR – IKO #116359
FELIX
Big Air coach Felix is a local boy who has become the best windsurfer and kitesurfer in the country. A complete rider, he has mastered all aspects of wave riding in windsurfing: back loops, push loops, aerials, and advanced maneuvers. In kitesurfing, his skill is just as impressive, with technical tricks like big loops and handle passes, making him a national icon in Big Air.
An instructor since 2013 and an IKO-certified instructor since 2019, he shares his knowledge with passion and high standards. He teaches in French and Malagasy and has a good command of English. A champion of Madagascar in Big Air and Freestyle, he is undoubtedly one of the most talented and respected riders in the country.
COACH FREE STYLE IKO #134553
SAMBIAZY
Freestyle/Big Air Coach. Sambiazy has been teaching at Sakalava as a junior instructor since 2017. An incredibly talented and always smiling rider, he will assist you throughout your progression, from kite flying to freestyle coaching. Patient and skilled at teaching, Sambiazy now has over 1000 hours of instruction under his belt. Sambiazy is an IKO Level 3 Instructor.
Assistant - IKO #144204
origin
Origino is an IKO assistant instructor and one of the best big air riders in Madagascar. Always smiling, positive, and highly motivated, he brings excellent energy to the spot. Fluent in both English and French, he communicates easily with all students. A patient and attentive teacher, he is particularly appreciated by young people and children, whom he guides with patience, enthusiasm, and a focus on safety. A true role model and a fantastic coach for building confidence.
IKO ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR
TATAZ
An IKO instructor and a true Big Air powerhouse, Tataz has mastered all disciplines: kitesurfing, windsurfing, and wingfoiling. A complete and dedicated rider, he has been among the top Big Air specialists in Madagascar for many years. A two-time runner-up in Madagascar, he is distinguished by his power, technique, and consistency on the water. Versatile, high-performing, and always committed to the progress of other riders, he also excels in wingfoiling.
BIG AIR
FREE STYLE KITESURF
WING FOIL
ALEX
Alex is an IKO level 2 instructor who speaks perfect English (native language), elected "instructor of the month" by the IKO, he is patient, pedagogical, smiling…what we call a "great guy".
In addition to his work as an instructor, Alex is also the lodge's content creator and community manager.
DOMINIQUE
Dominique is an IKO Level 2 instructor and is starting his fourth season as an instructor. A versatile rider, he is equally comfortable with big air kiteboarding and wingfoiling. Known for his patience, calm demeanor, and consistency, he guides students with dedication and effective teaching methods, from beginners to advanced riders. A valuable member of the team, he is reliable, technically skilled, and always committed on the water.
Coach Big Air – IKO #318496
CEDRIC
Big Air and Wingfoil Coach. Cedric is an IKO Level 2 instructor who practices all disciplines with astonishing ease. Kiteboarding, kite foiling, windsurfing, wingfoiling... always available and smiling. He is the 2023 and 2024 Madagascar Wingfoil Champion and also finished second in Big Air.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR
MIKA
Mika is starting his third season at the lodge and is now part of the new generation of Malagasy riders who are rapidly rising to prominence. With skills similar to those of an instructor, like Origino, he combines technical expertise with excellent interpersonal skills with students.
An impressive big air rider, he masters challenging tricks like the kite loop late back roll and the kite loop board off. Always smiling, positive, and approachable, he embodies kindness at the spot. A natural, motivating, and skilled coach, he is highly regarded by both young and adult riders.
