Julie Gilbert Courtesy of Pete Cabrinha

WD: What is the women's pro kiteboardinng tour like?

I think it's awesome that more and more women are competing. The numbers may still be far less than the number of men competing, but I like to think "the glass is half full rather than half empty". I look at the increases we've had in the turnout of women, and the increase in level of these women kiteboarders.

Generally the scene is much more cordial, fun and friendly than other sports that I've seen. Take, for example, the Velocity Games in Corpus Christi Texas in May 2003. We were a core group of 9 women battling it out for a pretty good prize purse, and still we were all on the beach helping each other by day, and laughing and partying by night. I was a television commentator for the show they are producing about the event, and I just loved showing off how well all the women get along. I think it's unique, and it's something I hope will always stay the same with our sport.

There are so many wonderful women competitors in the sport of kiteboarding, and though we all want to further our own careers, we all have a goal of making sure women's kiteboarding succeeds along with each of us.

WD: What advice would give to women who want to learn how to kiteboard?

Take a professional lesson. Actually that's the advice I'd give to anyone wanting to learn to kiteboard. Work with a reputable company like Kiteboarding School of Maui here in Hawaii. Learn from someone you trust. And furthermore, don't learn from a boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse. Chris and I were lucky. There was no such thing as kiteboarding lessons, so luckily he was patient, and learning from him went off without a hitch. But generally, I'd say you'll learn more effectively and efficiently by taking a professional lesson from someone like KSM. The lessons are worth every penny.

Specific advice for women: don't be afraid to take this sport at your own pace. You have to have drive and you must also be a bit aggressive to really take on this sport. Often these things come at a slower pace for some. Don't be afraid to take up kiteboarding at your own pace...it'll be better for everyone in the end if you do.

WD: What competitive tours are you currently competing on and how is the season going? What are your goals for the year?

I am doing a lot of independent events, like the Waddell Wave Bash in California, the Velocity Games in Texas, and the Red Bull events, such as the Red Bull King of the Air in Maui. I also am going to do a handful of PKRA World Tour events at places I want to kiteboard anyway...not just because they are tour events. The Dominican Republic, Holland, Italy, etc. We'll see how many events I do. Really, this year I just want to find a balance between having fun, doing events, and traveling and kiteboarding in cool places.

The season is going great so far--2nd at the Velocity Games and 3rd in Waddell. I'm having LOADS of fun, and that's the most important thing.

My goals for the year are twofold--to represent my sponsors well and to enjoy kiteboarding and my lifestyle. Seeing somebody TRULY enjoy what they do is infectious, so that's a huge goal for me. Yes, results are important, but not at the expense of being a good role model and sportswoman. In fact, I think that's more important than results--it's definitely more influential.

WD: What are your favorite tricks to do?

That question is a hard one to answer, because this sport changes dramatically and often. Any trick I put down here would sound dated not long from now. So...I will refrain from putting a specific jump. Let's just say I like big air, rotations, and stylish aggressive moves.

WD: What would you been doing if you were not a professional kiteboarder or windsurfer?

I would be working in advertising or the media in some way. I studied communication and psychology at the University of Puget Sound in Washington State, and have worked at a radio station, TV station and with magazines, so I would probably be hard at work dressed in a suit! Yikes! Glad I have the career that I do!

WD: Tell us something most people don't know about you...

That I grew up land locked in Idaho...it's a true wonder how following college, I ended up with a professional water sports career. I'm not complaining! Just still stunned!

WD: Anyone you would like to thank?

My husband Chris Gilbert for getting me into this sport and for being a constant source of motivation and inspiration.

My parents and family for being so amazingly supportive...and also for being so enthusiastic about my career. My family has always encouraged me to "take the more challenging road" and I know I wouldn't be where I am right now if it weren't for them.

My friends who are the most incredible friends anyone could ask for.

And of course my sponsors--my kiteboarding life just wouldn't be the same without all of your help. Red Bull, Cabrinha, Billabong, Kiteboarding School of Maui, Zeal Optics, and Rainbow Fin Company. It's awesome to be affiliated with such incredible companies and to know that I ride for the BEST companies in the world. Truly. I think it's an honor to be associated with each of these amazing companies.