At just 16 years old, Zac Adams is carving his name into kiteboarding history. Growing up in Hood River, Oregon—a town synonymous with wind sports—Zac has become the first (mainland) American, and at only 16 years old, one of the youngest athletes to compete in the legendary Red Bull King of the Air. Zac has not just slowly come into the scene over the last year; he’s redefining it as part of the Next Generation of New School Big Air riders.
The King of the Air is the biggest stage in kiteboarding, where the world’s elite gather to push the limits of height, style, and technicality. For Zac, this isn’t just a competition; it’s a dream come true. With Zac's crazy training travel schedule we asked him to answer some questions to try and get to know him better.
Q: What was your first thought when you got the call for King of the Air?
A: My first thought was “Scream! Let it all out! You finally got to where you wanted to be, now make it something epic and go hamm 🚀
Q: As one of the youngest riders in King of the Air, do you feel pressure or just pure excitement?
A: The thought of pressure doesn’t even cross my mind knowing that I am barely even old enough to sign up for the event! 🤪 TO THE MOON!
Q: What does it mean to you to be a part of the Next Generation of New School Big Air riders?
A: Onwards and upwards are the words for this chapter! Things are just getting started in New School Big Air and I cannot wait to show some gnarly things. 🥵
Q: How do you see New School Big Air evolving in the next few years and what role do you want to play in that?
A: Our New School Big Air will be even more proper, thriving to be as stylish as possible while going as big as possible! I will push to evolve kiteboarding with all the next generation boy’s by my side!
Q: How has the New School Big air gear that Slingshot just released supported your rapid evolution?
A: To be the best, you must ride the best! With the new gear from Slingshot the comfort of floating feels like no other and is reliable in any situation.