Kai Bartlett Interview: Downwind, Ares, Gemini, Vega & New Design

Kai Bartlett of www.kaiwaa.com and his partners at outriggerzone.com design and build the Antares OC1, Ares OC1, Gemini OC2, Vega Surfski, Vega Flex Surfski, and a soon to be released flat water OC1.
We discuss Kai's designs, his racing career and how his newest flat water OC1 will meet a need in the dragon boat community as their time trial boat and a fast option for those who paddle in flat water conditions.
Tags:
Downwind Paddling, Vega Surfski, Ares OC1, Gemini OC2, OC1 for Dragon Boat Time Trials

[@BradStyron]

Awesome Interview! I am from NC as well! I grew up in Morehead City and moved to Oahu 4 years ago! I'm working with Kai this coming year to produce some videos and I also just got my first Ares! SHOOTS!

[@ThePaddleChannel]

Very cool! We're looking forward to seeing those videos! Congrats on the Ares -- great boat.

[@rickquist3992]

"We thought that we were gonna have to rescue you guys"
Priceless!

[@barryblackburn5910]

Yeah, I chuckled at that too. Those guys had no idea 😂

[@gtwolverine1212]

What a great ambassador for a sport like you both said palette is like going to Disneyland for 1 to 2 hours riding the rides but also exercising getting in shape thank you so much for a great interview

[@barryblackburn5910]

I agree. Kai is so humble.and yes, paddling is great fun and great exercise all in one!! Can’t wait til the next downwind run.

[@barryblackburn5910]

I have been in the Vega Surfski for 8 months now. I have moved the footplate 3 different times over this time period. A little closer to me each time as my balance and rotation has improved. I am really loving this ski. It is fast in the flat water and super fast in the downwind bumps!!!