Had an hour session with Lorne, decided to give a try based on his 5 stars review on google. Unfortunately, the real experience was far less than expected. Communication with Lorne wasnt the greatest, starting from my missed calls/messages regarding our session. He didnt notify me whether we meet or not, I ended up waiting for him on the beach for an hour before he showed up. At the beginning of our session he left me in the water with a kite for 10 minutes to help out his buddy launch his kite. During our lesson, he gave me very little helpful advice, mostly just stayed quietly behind my back, showed no interest in helping me learn the sport.
Lorne has the patience of a saint when working with a beginner! His emphasis on safety and showing you the basic fundamentals gives you the confidence you need to get out on the water. Not to mention his 10+ years experience and commitment to the sport. In conversation I also found out he’s a tech rep for one of the major kite boarding companys so he can suggest the right equipment you need whether your a beginner or have some level of experience. Lesson prices were competitive with other business in the area. A+!
In the area for a family vacation and the wind was light. Lorne was my savior. Spent a day learning to foil board with him on the jet-ski and had an absolute blast! Great teacher and great time. If you are in the area, let Lorne show you the ropes!!!
Lorne was an amazing kiteboarding instructor! Everything about our experience (which included a semi-private lesson and a follow-up private lesson) was outstanding. Several things stood out: 1) Lornes focus on the key foundations, including safety, preparation, kite/wind dynamics, and building the mental map for ongoing progress; 2) Fun: Lorne made all aspects of this fun/enjoyable/positive; 3) Easy logistics: From booking the lessons to coordinating where to start and more, Lorne made it as simple and hassle-free as possible. In my professional career I spend a lot of time teaching, and I walked away inspired by how high Lorne set the bar. Were looking forward to coming back to Fort Walton Beach and continuing our kiteboarding progress--and fun.