Overview
Giel Vlugt is a professional kiteboarder from the Netherlands. Popularly known by his nickname “Double G,” he is renowned for his extraordinary height in Big Air and is recognized as one of the pioneers who first successfully implemented and mastered the Double Kiteloop in competition. He is a top rider who continues to push the technical boundaries of the modern Big Air scene.
Career
He started his kiteboarding career in the Netherlands and later blossomed after training in high-wind environments such as Cape Town, South Africa. During his early years before rising to fame, he worked as a kiteboarding instructor in Tarifa, Spain, while honing his skills. This experience laid the foundation for his precise control techniques in extreme conditions.
In competition, he utilizes his signature “Double Kiteloop” as well as high-scoring “S-loops” and complex board-off variations. He is consistently considered a top contender for the podium at major Big Air contests.
Sponsors and Brands
In his early career, he used CORE equipment but made the major decision to move to Ocean Rodeo, which was then an up-and-coming force in the Big Air scene, to secure funding and establish his professional career. There, he maximized the potential of the “Rise” kite, which utilized lightweight ALUULA material, and proved his value by successfully landing consecutive double loops, significantly contributing to the brand’s visibility. He returned to his former home, CORE, at the end of 2023 and currently serves as a top team rider for the brand.
Personality and Friendships
He has a long-standing rivalry with fellow top rider Janek Grzegorzewski, and they are known for pushing each other’s riding to new levels. In his private life, he is in a relationship with Dutch professional kiteboarder Zara Hoogenraad, and the two are often seen traveling together on the tour.
Quotes and Episodes
Vlugt is a self-confessed extreme hard worker whose training volume stands out. During his early days living in a van at kite spots, he would wake up at 7:30 AM as the strong winds shook his vehicle, proceeding to complete three sessions a day until sunset. When the Levante wind lasted for a week and a half, he remained on the water for five to seven hours every day, reflecting on it as “the best time of my life.”
“I think I spend more time on the water than any other rider.”
— Giel Vlugt
He also holds a positive philosophy toward pushing the limits in Big Air. Inspired by seeing his rival Janek Grzegorzewski perform board-offs and rotations earlier than anyone else, he asked, “Why aren’t we even trying?” and embarked on learning new tricks. He remarked:
“I think with Big Air kiting, you find that if you start trying it, you’re closer than you think.”
— Giel Vlugt
In English-speaking circles, his Dutch name is often difficult to pronounce, leading to nicknames like “Hill Flute” or “Heel Vloo,” which he often makes light of. The nickname “Double G” is derived from his signature double kiteloops and has become a staple for commentators.
Competition Results
• 2022 BAKL Tour Champion (Won BAKL France with an S-loop, defeating Andrea Principi)
• 2022 GKA Big Air World Championships (Tarifa) 3rd Place
View latest results (Spoiler Warning)
• 2024 Full Power Tarifa Finalist
• 2024 GKA Lords of Tram 6th Place Overall
• 2024 GKA Big Air World Championship Gran Canaria Semifinalist
• 2024 Red Bull King of the Air Quarterfinalist