Overview
Mark Shinn is a kiteboarding pioneer from Southampton, UK, and a legendary rider who has been crowned World Champion. In 2002, he achieved the unprecedented feat of winning both the PKRA and KPWT world tour titles in the same year, and also took the crown at the Red Bull King of the Air, completely dominating the competitive scene at the time. After retiring from competition, he launched his own brand, “Shinn Kiteboarding,” driving the evolution of kiteboards and hydrofoils as a preeminent board designer and shaper.
Career
Starting his career in windsurfing in the UK, he transitioned to kiteboarding in 1999. His overwhelming riding sense quickly brought him to prominence, and in 2002 he simultaneously captured both the PKRA and KPWT titles. Adding to this historic run, he also won the Red Bull King of the Air held in Maui, Hawaii, that same year.
After retiring from professional competition in 2005, he was involved in the launch and management of the Polish brand Nobile, successfully developing innovative twin-tip boards such as the Triple Six (666) and Triple Five (555). Following this success, he established his own independent brand, “Shinn Kiteboarding.” Relocating his production base to Europe, he continues to deliver twin-tip boards and foil products that combine unique design aesthetics with high performance.
Sponsors & Brands
In his early days, he partnered with windsurfing and kite brands such as F2, Gaastra, and Maui Sails for development and promotion. Later, he worked with Nobile Kiteboarding before running his own brand, “Shinn Kiteboarding” (Shinworld).
Personality & Relationships
Known for his extreme humility, he has remarked, “I think it would be safe to say my wife is a business person and runs the company. I just play with toys.” He cites surfing as the sport he is most passionate about (his “first love”), describing it as the most frustrating yet most deeply satisfying sport he knows.
Alongside legends like Flash Austin, he is recognized in the early days of kiteboarding for mastering the techniques of “old-school big air” (focusing purely on going high) and board-offs. Today, he remains highly respected by many designers and next-generation riders.
Quotes & Episodes
“I think like many, many people, if I had to choose one sport it would be surfing. Yeah, first love. And it’s the most frustrating and most satisfying sport that I know.”
— Mark Shinn
“I think it would be safe to say my wife is a business person and runs the company. I just play with toys.”
— Mark Shinn
Competition Results
2002 PKRA World Tour – 1st Place (Overall)
2002 KPWT World Tour – 1st Place (Overall)
2002 Red Bull King of the Air – 1st Place
🔗 関連リンク: Team
Search Aliases: Mark Shinn, MarkShinn