Meet this issue's Waterwoman, Elena Moreno Romero, the fiery firefighter whose journey from the shores of Seville to the waves of Cadiz has ignited a passion for wingfoiling. Fresh from competing in Cape Verde, she's riding the wave of excitement while balancing life's demands. Find out more in this exclusive interview with Jen Tyler!

Elena, it's nice to meet you finally! Please tell us a bit about yourself, including where you grew up and what initially attracted you to wingfoiling.

Hello there! It's a pleasure to meet you! My name is Elena. I'm 30 years old and was born in Seville, but my heart belongs to Cadiz, where I've spent most of my leisure time since I was a child, in a place called Los Caños de Meca. I've always been drawn to the sea and sports; my mother has greatly inspired me.

When I turned 18, I moved to the Canary Islands to study Physical Activity and Sports Sciences, as I wanted to be close to the waves and the sea. From 18 to 27, I studied and worked at a surf school, which allowed me to finish my degree and become a firefighter, which is my current profession.

Until recently, wind sports had been a dream of mine that I had yet to fulfil. I started with kiting but soon switched to wingfoiling, which has become my passion.

Did you face any challenges when you first started learning? 

Deciding to learn and do something new is already the first big challenge.

In my case, I had been "avoiding the wind" all my life, and now I can't stop looking for it. From the first moment, I was passionate about the wing since it combines many elements, and the feeling of flying is amazing!

What watersports had you previously done, and did they help with your wingfoiling progression?

I've been surfing since I was 12 years old, and it has definitely helped me progress.

Have you had any notable injuries or setbacks while wingfoiling, and how did you overcome them? What advice would you give someone getting into the sport?

Fortunately not! I highly recommend trying this sport! It's a fantastic way to stay fit, connect with nature, and join a growing community. Sport is life, and this one is suitable for everyone, so don't hesitate to give it a shot!

We've got to ask: where does your Instagram handle/nickname Elenakilla come from?! 

Hahaha, well, in Andalusia, we often use the expression "killo" or "killa" to refer to each other. The term comes from the shortened version of "chikillo." I didn't know anyone's name when I relocated to the Canary Islands, so I began addressing everyone as "killo" or "killa." Eventually, they began calling me that, too.

Let's talk about the GWA stop in Cape Verde—what an event! How did it feel to stand on the podium with Moona and Nia?!

Overall, the trip was a beautiful experience. Cape Verde has a unique energy filled with joy and vitality that creates a magical atmosphere combined with the natural conditions. Although the conditions were challenging, they brought everyone together, fostering a great sense of harmony.

It was an honour to compete alongside Nia and Moona. Moona is a reference in the sport with a history that could be intimidating, but she exudes positive energy and makes everything seem easy with her talent. I admire her greatly. Nia, on the other hand, is a young and skilled wing pioneer. Her commitment to the sport at a young age is admirable and inspiring.

What an insane bail you had in the waves, but you still came out smiling! How did you feel at that point? You must have been terrified! 

It's true that I did it effortlessly, without much contemplation but by pondering on the matter. I've been surfing through rocky waves for many years, and I've developed some skills that have helped me during difficult times. Additionally, the supportive community, always willing to assist in any way possible, gave me the courage to take risks.

What is the most memorable wing foiling session you've ever had, and why?

Several come to mind, but I'll stick with a session in Cape Verde. They are not the best waves I have ever caught, but as a whole, it is a session that I will never forget. When you arrive at a place you've never been before, and getting there is an adventure full of uncertainty, it is undoubtedly the great essence of sport. Hopefully, there will still be magical places, and we will be able to preserve and respect them.

How long have you been riding for Cabrinha, and how have they supported your dream of being a professional wingfoiler? 

Less than two years ago, I took my first steps with Cabrinha when I started using the wing. I owe a big thanks to my local store, Magma, for supporting me from the beginning of this adventure. Their unwavering support is something I value greatly.

While I no longer profit from sports, I find it inspiring to see those who do, especially in lesser-known sports. These days, athletes and digital technology go hand in hand, and I understand the importance of finding a balance between the two. However, as someone who loves sports and nature, I find it challenging to sit in front of the computer and create content.

What are your hobbies off the water, and how do you balance your passion for wing foiling with other aspects of your life?

On the one hand, my work is a very important part of my life; I am lucky to be able to say that as a Firefighter, I am passionate about my work. It is a profession that allows you to learn in many fields. Still, it also requires you to be up-to-date and continuously trained to have the greatest number of tools and skills when it comes to solving any adversity.

On the other hand, sports, in general, are things I have carried inside since I was a child, and I am so grateful for all the doors they have opened for me in life. Whether it's watersports, cycling, racket sports, climbing, etc., in the end, you create a community with people who are passionate about the same thing as you and a very nice harmony is generated.

How do you think wing foiling will evolve in the future?

Recently, I have frequently used the phrase "it's the sport of the future" among my friends. I genuinely believe that water sliding sport is highly versatile as it can be practised in a much wider range of conditions than traditional wind sports. It offers a feeling of flying and has a minimal impact on the body. Besides, the equipment required for this sport is not too bulky, which I think is a significant advantage.

Thanks again, Elena. We look forward to seeing what 2024 brings! Do you have any exciting plans to share with us?

I hope I haven't talked for too long. I wanted to use this opportunity to encourage all aspiring riders to take the first step and pursue their dreams. I want to send a big hug to everyone who has supported me along the way!

Thanks, Elena. It was lovely meeting you! 

And you, Jen! Thank you!

Videos

Spotlight on Elena Moreno | Cape Verde 2024
By Jen Tyler
Italian/Egyptian Jen Tyler grew up on the sandy beaches of the Red Sea and has been on the IKSURFMAG & Tonic Mag team since 2017.

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