New kiter passes away!

[Steve-O]

Some awful news to share with the kiting community of Tampa Bay. A student of mine, Mike Williams, 24 years of age, died last week of sudden heart failure. Many of you may have seen this new guy on our local waters over the past month. He was getting dialed in and falling in love with our great sport. He never got to jump, or experience even a smooth transition. He was all heart and without question was going to chase this sport like many of us do. His family said that was all he talked about. It reminds me how precious life is and how too often we take so much for granted. I am still troubled by the news of his passing.

The tall thin kid who got an Omega? Oh no. He was a really nice guy. I met him before his first lesson out at the Skyway. He was all amped up and asking questions.
That is unreal at his age.
How is that possible?

[toby wilson]

This truly is sad news. Amber and I were supposed to go out with Mike and his wife on his boat a couple of weekends ago. He lived in Palmetto and we were becoming friends. I was looking forward to spending time with Mike, he was already becoming a kiting buddy and was always very considerate while at the beach. I am sitting here with tears pouring down my face as I am completely blown away and wish I had gone out with him on the boat that day. I feel like I should have been there for his last good weekend with us. He was BEGGING me to go with him. But I didn't, I HAD to go to the beach that day and ride...I still can't believe this is happening.

Rest in Peace Mike. We will miss you Bro.

-Toby