"A perfect match!" with Ellie Dimitrova

10 Questions with Ellie Dimitrova, Aerofoil’s first team rider

Hi Ellie, you’re the first team rider for Aerofoils, that’s really exciting! We’re totally pumped to have you on the team and to share this journey together. You’re a well-known professional kitesurfer and such an inspirational adventurer, we’d love to share a bit more about you with all the water sports and foil fanatics out there. 

 

1. What’s your background Ellie, where and how did you grow up?

For the first seven years of my life, I was living in Israel with my family, and then they decided to return to their homeland of Bulgaria. They set up our home in the coastal town of Pomorie, where I grew up. Being surrounded by the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, I developed a deep connection with water sports from an early age.
 

2. Is it impertinent to ask you for your age? What have you done since high school? Did you go to university or…?

It's not impertinent at all! I'm currently 30 years old. After high school, I went to university to study economics which took 5 years. My original plan for my future looked very different from how it’s panned out once I got so passionate about water sports. However, somehow I knew and felt that the work from 9 am to 5 pm was not my main goal.
 

3. How did you get into water sports?

My journey into water sports began when I was introduced to kitesurfing by a friend. I instantly fell in love with the combination of wind, water, and adrenaline. The feeling of harnessing the power of the wind to propel me across the water was exhilarating, and I knew I had found my calling. I started in my hometown Pomorie where I have the perfect view from my apartment straight to the kite spot.
 

4. You’ve got a huge following on the socials and everyone loves your videos of foil kiting in the most beautiful corners of Earth. What is it about foiling that got you so hooked on it?

I currently live in the Zanzibar Archipelago which offers plenty of water sports activities. It is definitely a light wind destination so not long after I moved there, I realized I actually live in a foiling paradise! Foiling has truly captivated me for several reasons. Firstly, the sensation of gliding effortlessly above the water's surface is incredibly liberating and serene. It offers a unique perspective of the surrounding environment. Secondly, foiling allows me to explore places that were previously inaccessible due to shallow waters or obstacles. Lastly, the technical aspect of mastering the foil and finding the perfect balance between speed and control keeps me engaged and constantly pushing my limits.
 

5. You’re the very first team rider for Aerofoils, how did this new partnership start?

The partnership with Aerofoils came about through mutual admiration and shared goals. They recognized my passion for foiling and believed I could be a valuable ambassador for their brand. The combination of their cutting-edge technology and my experience in the kiting industry made us a perfect match.
 

6. What are your plans with the e-foil?

With the e-foil, I plan to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in water sports. I aim to explore new locations, capture breathtaking footage, and inspire others to experience the joy of foiling.
 

7. And what excites you about this opportunity with Aerofoils?

 What excites me most about the opportunity with Aerofoils is their commitment to innovation and sustainability. They are at the forefront of electric foiling technology, which aligns perfectly with my values asan athlete who cares deeply about the environment.
 

8. What’s the fastest you went with the e-foil? How does it feel?

The fastest I've gone with the e-foil is around 40 kilometres per hour. It's an incredible rush! The feeling of speed combined with the smoothness of gliding above the water is truly exhilarating.
 

9. How do you compare e-foiling to kite foiling? 

Comparing e-foiling to kite foiling is an interesting question. Both sports involve foils and offer amazing experiences. However, for me, it’s like comparing two different countries, each with their own uniquenesses. In kite foiling, I love the direct connection to the wind, the ability to jump and perform aerial tricks, and the sheer power and speed that can be achieved. As for e-foiling, I appreciate the quiet and serene nature of the sport, the accessibility to places with limited wind conditions, and the ability to focus solely on the sensation of gliding without the complexities of flying a kite.
 

10. Some people are still quite reluctant to try foiling as the equipment itself can be a bit intimidating. Also, people think it’s really difficult to learn. What recommendations and tips do you have for someone who’s toying with the idea of getting into the sport?

Foiling can indeed appear intimidating, but it's definitely worth giving it a try. My recommendation for someone new to the sport would be to start with proper lessons from a certified instructor. They can provide guidance, ensure safety, and help you progress faster. It's also essential to start with stable and beginner-friendly equipment, like the Adventure 103L. Always ensure your equipment suits your skill level. Don't forget to always wear safety gear such as a helmet and impact vest. Finally, don't be afraid to crash and embrace the learning process. Like any sport, it takes practice, determination, and patience to become proficient. And don't forget the most important one — to fully enjoy your time on the water!
 
Amazing, thanks so much Ellie, we so much look forward to working with you on some super exciting projects!