Mixing it up: North welcomes Oswald Smith to International Team
North Kiteboarding is thrilled to announce the latest addition to the International Team: the dynamic Oswald ‘Ozzie’ Smith.
North Kiteboarding is thrilled to announce the latest addition to the International Team: the dynamic Oswald ‘Ozzie’ Smith.
The 28-year-old South African rider is already an established name in the kiteboarding community, bringing a wealth of experience and passion for the sport to North.
Ozzie’s kiteboarding journey began growing up in Stellenbosch, a small town outside of Cape Town. His father, an avid waterman, took him to the beach after school every day, nurturing a deep connection with the ocean that speaks to his diverse skill set today.
“I was hooked on kiteboarding literally from day one,” Ozzie says. “My dad has always been deeply connected to the water. He taught me how to kite, and from the very first time I tried it at age 12, I knew that I immediately loved it.”
Ozzie tried his hand at all the kiteboarding disciplines. He began with Racing, where he secured three consecutive podium finishes on tour. Yet, he always gravitated back towards the creativity and community he found in Freestyle, Wave Riding, and Big Air. Ozzie’s versatility across the disciplines has earned him an impressive set of titles.
3 x Vice Slalom World Champion
1 x Vice Junior Freestyle World Champion
5 x South African Champion
1 x Vice Champion Red Bull Megaloop 2020
“These are different ways to have fun. That’s what keeps me hooked on the sport. I don’t want to be the best in one discipline, but I want to do everything well. For me, joy comes from mixing it up,”
- Ozzie
Ozzie is renowned for his talent and his fearless approach to the water. Reflecting on a particularly memorable moment, Ozzie recounts, “The most intense jump I’veexperienced was with a 5-meter kite amidst 60-knot winds at my local spot, Maccassar. I jumped insanely high but wiped out and broke my shoulder. I couldn’t ride for three months!”
Drawing from the same creativity that fuels his secret talent for poetry, Ozzie shapes his unique approach to the sport. “I think my outlook on life inspires my style on the water. Sometimes it comes out in unexpected ways,” Ozzie adds. He is passionate about pushing the creative side of kiteboarding, exploring new possibilities, and sharing his vision.
“I feel like change is very important, and joining North felt like the right step. Their partnership with Mystic creates a seamless transition with a team that’s already like family to me. We share the stoke, and the products are top of the line. I’m excited for this new chapter and proud to be a part of the North family!”
- Ozzie
