Kirsty Jones

Madagascar // 28.12.09

It has been my dream to visit Madagascar since I was 15 and thanks to Air Madagascar and Niko at Babaomby Island lodge, that dream was turned into reality this November.

My passion for wildlife, unique culture and remote kitesurfing and surfing spots made Madagascar my fairytale destination for many years. Competitions, other trips and commitments took all my time and my dream of Madagascar lay dormant for years.

This November, quite unexpectedly, I was invited on kitesurfing trip to Madagascar, staying at the Babaomby Island lodge in the North of the Island with Harold Quinquis and Niki Salet from Wax up TV and photographer and rider Richard Boudia.

The only dates available to do the trip for me were at the end of November in between 2 important World cup competitions in Brazil and Morocco. It was a tight call but I would have endured anything for Madagascar!

Madagascar is like no other place on earth. The country, the trip, and the kitesurfing was more incredible than I ever imagined and a full story, video and photos will be coming soon!

Despite having major political problems and extreme poverty, Madagascar is full of Cultural, biological and marine richness that needs protecting.

In June next year I hope to return for the Madagascar sequel, to explore the incredible waves and wildlife of the South and begin a project helping to raise awareness and the protection of the Whales and cetacean species that are severely under threat here in Madagascar and in many other parts of our oceans.

For me every experience, every person, every place, every country, and every animal is an inspiration in some way or another. Madagascar and its people really touched a place inside me and inspired me to turn my compassion into action.

Kirsty