Interview with Simeon Ke-Paloma who comes to us from Hawaii and who will be this year the ambassador of the 2024 event.
How did you start Foiling and why?
i started foiling in 2019. I work as a lifeguard in waikiki, and there was nothing to do in the offseason for waves, so i thought it would be fun to try a new wave riding craft in foiling. I never intended to get good at it, it was just pure entertainment falling and being scared of small waves ad the lift!
What is your favorite foil discipline?
I love downwind foiling the most. It’s pure freedom. It’s like having the best surf session at the best wave to yourself. we are so lucky to be alive during this time to experience downwinding and all the excitement around it and the constant learning and progression. Â
Have you ever come to foil in France?
Yes, I came last year in 2023, and had an amazing time with my family. Crozon area was beautiful, the race was organized so professionally, and it’s one of the races I look forward to travelling to every year..
What is your favorite spot?
For me, my favorite spot is the Hawaii Kai run. It is home for me. Its where we all learned and continue to learn and grow. There are better places in Hawaii and around the world that may have better bumps, conditions and areas, but The Hawaii Kai run in Maunalua Bay is very special to me.
What is your best and worst memory in foiling?
My best memories of foiling were the early days when we began downwinding. It was a special time, everyone was so excited, we were learning so quickly and learning every session, but mostly we were developing new lifelong friendships with each other. A new group of fanatics in a new sport and we knew it was special times.
This year you are the ambassador of our event and we thank you. What are your expectations?
Thank you, I am honored to be an ambassador. My expectations are to be a good representation for the sport, the community, and for Hawaii. To be a bridge for the athletes and the organizers so that we all have a good, safe and satisfying race. I am excited to see all the returning competitors and new competitors, I am excited to see the growth of the sport and the community. I am happy to see many of my friends I downwind with in Hawaii make it to France this year to race. It will be a great and successful event!
