Woman in Flite: Antonella Magen, Co-founder of Gnarly Harley Adventures 

As part of International Women’s Day, we're interviewing inspiring women at Flite. Meet Antonella Magen, Flite Authorized Partner and co-founder of Gnarly Harley Adventures in Florida. Antonella first discovered Fliteboarding when she and Justin Chait (Flite Team Rider) were searching for a watersport that blended thrills with eco-friendly technology. In her own words, it all went very fast from there.

How did you get started with Fliteboarding?

I first discovered Fliteboarding when Justin Chait and I were searching for a watersport that blended the thrill with eco-friendly technology. We made the investment on a school fleet without trying them first. Luckily a friend owned a Series 1 at the time that we borrowed, the moment I stood on a Fliteboard, I was hooked — I think it took me 5 minutes to figure it out. The feeling of effortlessly gliding over the water was incredible. I started coaching soon after receiving our school fleet, which forced me to spend countless hours mastering balance and technique. Coaching while taking videos of students, constantly watching and correcting others’ techniques is not so easy. Over time, I got better and it became second nature.

Can you share a bit about the progression of your journey to coming 3rd at the world’s biggest eFoil race in Dubai this year?

Earning 3rd at the Dubai eFoil race last year wasn’t an overnight success; it was the
result of countless hours in the water, overcoming fears, falls and setbacks, and a
supportive partner that believed in the sport as much as I did.

What does Fliteboarding give you?

Fliteboarding gives me an unparalleled sense of freedom and connection with nature. It’s not just a sport - it’s a way to escape the everyday hustle and immerse myself in the present moment. Whether I’m carving or gliding across calm water, it brings me joy, challenges my limits, and fuels my creativity both on and off the water.

What is your favorite Fliteboard setup?

I started on the PRO with the flyer wing, but now I’m a fan of the ULTRA + 900 or 1100 flow wing. It really depends on my intentions for the session.

What is one of your favorite memories on the water?

This has to be the time I did a sunset ride and the sky had such intense colors it seemed like a movie. A stunning palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. In that moment it was just about being completely alive and in tune with nature. I always take a moment and just float on my board, that day a manta ray jumped out of the water right next to me, it was INSANE. I’ve had manatees, dolphins, sharks come by but that was one of my favorite moments.

What does freedom mean to you?

Freedom is the ability to be fully present and true to yourself. It’s leaving behind the everyday stresses of life and embracing the open, unpredictable nature of the water. To me, freedom means challenging your limits, exploring new horizons, and finding peace in every ride.

Why do you love teaching people to eFoil? What’s your top tip?

I love seeing students transform from shy, hesitant beginners into confident riders. My top tip for anyone starting out is to trust your instructor and embrace the learning curve. Everyone falls and is just a part of the process so don’t get discouraged. Take your time, focus on finding your balance, and remember that every time you fall and get back on the board, you are improving and learning something new.

What is one of the biggest challenges of owning a small business?

Owning a small business means wearing many hats - from operations and customer service, to marketing and logistics. Finding balance between being in the water and getting everything that needs to be done. One of the biggest challenges we have in Florida is hurricane season. The past few years we’ve had incredibly strong and devastating hurricanes, but they have pushed us to be innovative and resourceful.

Do you have any words of motivation that you come back to regularly?

Absolutely. I often remind myself that “progress over perfection” is the key. And practice, practice, practice, if you want to be great at anything in life you need to put in the time. This keeps me grounded, encourages continuous improvement, and reminds me to celebrate the journey rather than just the outcomes.

What do you feel is your biggest achievement?

Earning 3rd place at the Dubai eFoil race definitely stands out as my biggest achievement. I never thought or aspired to be an athlete and I feel so honored that Dubai Surf House saw my potential and sponsored my trip there. Also super grateful to Follow for sponsoring me with wetsuits and vests.

What would you like to achieve next?

Looking ahead, I’m excited to push the boundaries even further. I hope to compete in more international events and continue elevating my Fliteboarding skills. Beyond that, I’d love to launch a series of workshops and retreats for women that combine beginner to advanced eFoil training with wellness - helping to inspire women discover this amazing new sport.