End of the rope:
Bryan "Shooey" Schumacher
Great Lakes Photography
The first "end of the rope" profile is on Bryan Schumacher. Bryan is the owner and creator of Xtremefoils, an aftermarket company that makes high end wings for hydrofoils. Bryan also is the owner and creator of foilforums, the widely used forums for hydrofoil enthusiasts worldwide.
Besides making wings and providing a forum for other hydrofoilers to use, Bryan is an avid rider himself and his family. Here for all to enjoy, the tale of Bryan Schumacher:
Besides making wings and providing a forum for other hydrofoilers to use, Bryan is an avid rider himself and his family. Here for all to enjoy, the tale of Bryan Schumacher:
How did you first get into the sport of hydrofoiling, when was it? I had purchased my first boat back in 2000. I have always liked waterskiing, etc, and knew I wanted some type of toy to pull behind the boat. I was going to go out and buy a wakeboard when I saw a picture of Geno in a magazine doing a wake back roll. I told myself that I had to have that toy. Bought it through AirChair and spent the rest of the summer learning to ride and jump the thing by myself since there is no one else in this area that rides a foil. My goal was to be able to land a backflip – that’s all I wanted – and figured I’d be done after that. Well, 12 years later, I’m still learning.
Here is a quote I found from you, "People always ask me why I'm so addicted to this sport. Part of it is the thrill of looking down at other boats from 15 feet in the air... but one of the answer I always give is, "What other sport can you think of where the whole family gets involved, and gets to spend that much time together?" This sport is filled with unbelievable/generous/kindhearted people. You've gotta love foiling! " - absolutely love this quote. You are a two time winner of the USHA ambassador of the year award. You do a lot for the sport. People in the sport admit to being obsessed with it. Are you obsessed with hydrofoiling? Yes, I am obsessed with foiling. For those that know me, they understand that if I’m not skiing in the summer, I’m most likely in the shop working on something. And the winter months are even worse when it comes to the amount of time I’m working on things. But it’s much more than R&D for me. I’ve been in this sport long enough to know the fun associated with riding behind the boat, riding in the boat with great friends, and the activities that happen off the lake. We have a sport where Pro’s and upper level riders have no issue teaching someone their first invert, explaining the hardware, or just sitting and drinking a beer with a fellow foiler. What other sport can claim that?
How many people can you take direct credit for introducing to the sport? Honestly, I’m not sure about introducing. Probably 50ish? But when it comes to “coaching”, I’m the guy who hops from boat to boat to help every newb I can. I try to teach all levels - learning how to ride – learning how to jump – learning how to invert, etc. There is great satisfaction in seeing the expression on the newb’s face when they first fly. Especially when it’s a kid!
Here is a quote I found from you, "People always ask me why I'm so addicted to this sport. Part of it is the thrill of looking down at other boats from 15 feet in the air... but one of the answer I always give is, "What other sport can you think of where the whole family gets involved, and gets to spend that much time together?" This sport is filled with unbelievable/generous/kindhearted people. You've gotta love foiling! " - absolutely love this quote. You are a two time winner of the USHA ambassador of the year award. You do a lot for the sport. People in the sport admit to being obsessed with it. Are you obsessed with hydrofoiling? Yes, I am obsessed with foiling. For those that know me, they understand that if I’m not skiing in the summer, I’m most likely in the shop working on something. And the winter months are even worse when it comes to the amount of time I’m working on things. But it’s much more than R&D for me. I’ve been in this sport long enough to know the fun associated with riding behind the boat, riding in the boat with great friends, and the activities that happen off the lake. We have a sport where Pro’s and upper level riders have no issue teaching someone their first invert, explaining the hardware, or just sitting and drinking a beer with a fellow foiler. What other sport can claim that?
How many people can you take direct credit for introducing to the sport? Honestly, I’m not sure about introducing. Probably 50ish? But when it comes to “coaching”, I’m the guy who hops from boat to boat to help every newb I can. I try to teach all levels - learning how to ride – learning how to jump – learning how to invert, etc. There is great satisfaction in seeing the expression on the newb’s face when they first fly. Especially when it’s a kid!
B.Schumacher Photo
You design and create wings for hydrofoils. Describe the process. Do you collaborate with others? Do you have lots of ideas that don't pan out? What is your inspiration? When I first got into creating wings, it was more of a “Can I figure this thing out?” feeling than anything. We didn’t have many options back then, and I thought I could improve on a wing I was riding. So I spent years of sitting behind a computer learning how to 3-d model, and then converting that to something that could be cut out of a block of aluminum. Back in the day, it was nothing to stay up until 2:00am working on this stuff most nights, then getting up and going to my real job during the day. I’ve always had great supporters along the way with great feedback. Ferney and Bradley were the first two test pilots. Very different riders with different ideas, but in the end it steered me down the path to create amazing riding foils. They would give me feedback on what a certain change did, and I’d incorporate that into the next revision. Now I’ve got even more pro riders giving me feedback on what works and what doesn’t. And believe me, there are plenty of things that have not worked out. A new wing design will take probably 10-20 prototypes to get to production levels. Many of those see water only a few times and end up in a scrap pile. Some work well and end up on different foils around the country. The good thing is I’ve learned enough about how water reacts that I can get at least close these days with the first prototypes. It’s still a very time intensive process with all the testing that needs to be done. As for my inspiration – I had two goals when I started… I wanted to hit 55 frames – and I wanted a pro to hit 60. Both have been reached… I think my inspiration now will be my son, Dominic.
I've seen you and other after market manufacturers say "never going to get rich" making foiling products. Do you at least break even? For the first 5 years, I’d say if I broke even I’d be happy. There was so much money spent in R&D, I never came out ahead. Now that I have the tools and extra material purchased, it’s more of a choice. My wings have been more successful than I ever imagined – and I’m truly grateful for the following. Now I have a little extra R&D money that I don’t have to cry over if I don’t ever make it back. Back in the day, if I didn’t make up the cost of R&D, it came out of my own pocket. Life is much better these days. If nothing else, I have been able to support the cost of owning 3 of the highest end foils on the planet (my brother’s, my son’s, and my own ski).
What inspired you to create foilforum? Do you enjoy being the man behind the curtain? I wanted an “unbiased” forum out there that people could post on and not feel like they had to be in one of the manufacturer’s camps. Our sport isn’t big enough to have a forum for each manufacturer, so I try to keep it under control. There is still an occasional “war”, but people have figured out I won’t let it go on long. We are here to learn about foiling – not talk about how my ski is better than yours. And yes, I’m happy being behind the curtain. I don’t have as much time to post these days as I used to, but I do try to keep up with things on the forums when I can.
Periodically, usually in the off-season, loud arguments pop up on the forums, usually over brand loyalties. As one of the "brands" yourself, is it difficult to separate and moderate effectively? Definitely! And mostly because I have to curb the people who are very Pro-XTREME. Granted, it does my ego good, but not good for the sport. A while back I picked a few moderators who could be un-biased and help me with the tough decisions. It’s worked out well so far.
I noticed on the "who's who of big air" you have a 55 frame wake back roll. There are only seven bigger on the list, and they include some of the royalty of the sport, Ben Ferney, Shannon Pope, Jake Bradley, Torey Narrans, Mark Lee, Adam Dietrich, and Travis martin. Impressive. That is nearly two full seconds that the foil is completely out of the water, while to non-foilers two seconds may not seem like much it probably seems like a lifetime. When you go that big or close to it, what are your thoughts?
The thing with big air is it’s a very technical learning process. You don’t just “magically” figure it out over a weekend. So it’s baby steps all along the way. 45 frames turns to 48. 48 to 49. You hit a wall – then finally 50. 51… etc. For me it isn’t so much the feeling when you are up there – it’s the feeling at takeoff when you can barely hang on to the handle from so much line tension. Granted, it is fun to look down on a boat full of wake boarders when their heads are all looking almost straight up. But like anything else that’s fun… it’s addictive. When you hit one 50 framer, you want to / have to keep going bigger.
I've seen you and other after market manufacturers say "never going to get rich" making foiling products. Do you at least break even? For the first 5 years, I’d say if I broke even I’d be happy. There was so much money spent in R&D, I never came out ahead. Now that I have the tools and extra material purchased, it’s more of a choice. My wings have been more successful than I ever imagined – and I’m truly grateful for the following. Now I have a little extra R&D money that I don’t have to cry over if I don’t ever make it back. Back in the day, if I didn’t make up the cost of R&D, it came out of my own pocket. Life is much better these days. If nothing else, I have been able to support the cost of owning 3 of the highest end foils on the planet (my brother’s, my son’s, and my own ski).
What inspired you to create foilforum? Do you enjoy being the man behind the curtain? I wanted an “unbiased” forum out there that people could post on and not feel like they had to be in one of the manufacturer’s camps. Our sport isn’t big enough to have a forum for each manufacturer, so I try to keep it under control. There is still an occasional “war”, but people have figured out I won’t let it go on long. We are here to learn about foiling – not talk about how my ski is better than yours. And yes, I’m happy being behind the curtain. I don’t have as much time to post these days as I used to, but I do try to keep up with things on the forums when I can.
Periodically, usually in the off-season, loud arguments pop up on the forums, usually over brand loyalties. As one of the "brands" yourself, is it difficult to separate and moderate effectively? Definitely! And mostly because I have to curb the people who are very Pro-XTREME. Granted, it does my ego good, but not good for the sport. A while back I picked a few moderators who could be un-biased and help me with the tough decisions. It’s worked out well so far.
I noticed on the "who's who of big air" you have a 55 frame wake back roll. There are only seven bigger on the list, and they include some of the royalty of the sport, Ben Ferney, Shannon Pope, Jake Bradley, Torey Narrans, Mark Lee, Adam Dietrich, and Travis martin. Impressive. That is nearly two full seconds that the foil is completely out of the water, while to non-foilers two seconds may not seem like much it probably seems like a lifetime. When you go that big or close to it, what are your thoughts?
The thing with big air is it’s a very technical learning process. You don’t just “magically” figure it out over a weekend. So it’s baby steps all along the way. 45 frames turns to 48. 48 to 49. You hit a wall – then finally 50. 51… etc. For me it isn’t so much the feeling when you are up there – it’s the feeling at takeoff when you can barely hang on to the handle from so much line tension. Granted, it is fun to look down on a boat full of wake boarders when their heads are all looking almost straight up. But like anything else that’s fun… it’s addictive. When you hit one 50 framer, you want to / have to keep going bigger.
Great Lakes Photography
You've been involved in foiling in many ways, as a wing designer/creator, as a discussion facilitator (foilforum), as a rider and competitor, and as a parent of a rider/competitor. Greatest thrill related to foiling? Easy answer… riding doubles with my son Dominic. Some may think that’s cheesy, but until you’ve done it, you will never know the feeling of riding side by side with your own kid. Early on, he and I have shared this sport… and it just keeps getting better every year. Don’t get me wrong – the other accomplishments mean a great deal to me. Hopefully I have added something to this sport and will continue to do so… but in the end, Dominic is my proudest moment.
Great Lakes Photography
Seeing your son progress and now compete in foiling, when is your realistic estimate of when he will catch you in ability? Looking forward to it or hoping to maintain some edge of him for as long as possible? Luckily I’ve still got strength on my side. This sport is more about finesse than strength, but you still have to have quite a bit of upper body strength to hit the bigger tricks. My guess is by the time he’s 17 or 18, he will have accomplished everything I know and will surpass me. It will be a fun 5 or 6 years for sure! I’m as excited as he is every new trick he lands. (And yes, I will not go gentle into that good night – he’s going to have to work at it to beat me!)
You're 46 years old. Do you see yourself foiling in 10 years? How about at 60? I sure hope so on both ages. I can already tell things are getting harder to recover from, but the good thing about this sport is it’s a little more forgiving on your body. I may not be throwing mobes at 60, but I’ll do whatever this body will let me.
You're 46 years old. Do you see yourself foiling in 10 years? How about at 60? I sure hope so on both ages. I can already tell things are getting harder to recover from, but the good thing about this sport is it’s a little more forgiving on your body. I may not be throwing mobes at 60, but I’ll do whatever this body will let me.
B.Schumacher Photo
You live in Rapid City South Dakota. What are some reasons for someone to come vacation there? We are lucky to live in a part of the world where the people who visit are amazed, and those who haven’t, have no idea what we have. Every person I’ve ever towed behind my boat is astounded by our scenery and the lake – they never would have dreamed South Dakota could be so beautiful. That’s a good thing. With Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills in my back door, there is plenty for anyone in the family to do while they are here… which will hopefully including foiling at least a day or two. If you are ever in the area, please get in touch with me. I’d be happy to show you my little piece of Heaven and tow you around a lake!
Rapid Fire time:
What type of boat do you drive/ride behind? 2007 Malibu VLX
How many days a year do you get out on the water and ski yourself? 75
What, in your opinion, is the perfect storm for the sport? Where is it in 5 years, what, if anything, is different? I’m not sure there will be a perfect storm for this sport. It will always appeal to those who want to try the unordinary. The two limiting factors are cost and size. It is not like grabbing a wakeboard and hitting the lake. But the big air will always be our strong point. In 5 years hopefully we will have an even more predictable ride and bigger air. I’m not sure how much bigger we can go but hopefully a few frames. I think curved wings will take over – and hopefully we will have some type of a plastic/entry level ski on the market by then.
Favorite foiler to watch? 2 of them: Dominic (he’s my kid) and Ferney (the guy I’ve looked up to as long as I’ve been riding)
Do you have a bag of stuff you take on the boat? What's in the bag? Ear plugs, rope, shims, tools, sandpaper
$10m in cash or a super power, which super power? I’ll take the cash so I can buy a huge house on a lake. :)
If you were instantly made commissioner of the newly founded World Organization of Hydrofoiling, what would be your first move? Try to coordinate an effort to get updated videos for how to ride this toy. One of the biggest hurdles is just getting up on this thing.
Rank in order of favorite to least favorite (pizza, politics, video games, The Beatles, lobster roll, a day on the water without a foil, beer, Ronald Reagan, sushi, Tom Petty, Monday Night Football, convertibles) Beer, Pizza , Convertibles, Ronald Regan , Monday Night Football, Tom Petty, The Beatles, Video Games, Lobster Roll, A day on the water without a foil, Politics, Sushi
Is there an afterlife? There better be.
Favorite all-time song that makes you happy. The Bubble Man
Favorite all-time song that makes you sad or thoughtful. I can only Imagine
A weird talent you have? Play the Tuba
Best concert you've ever attended, why? Elton John – the company I was with
Time travel exists, where/when do you travel, why? Day 1 – I would love to see the beginning of the world
Worst movie you've ever seen? I wouldn’t watch a movie I didn’t like at least a little.
Best movie you've ever seen? Blazing Saddles
If you could go anywhere for one week, where? Space to look back on Earth
Best sitcom of all time? Simpsons
Ever get someone's autograph? Who? Not that I can remember – people are just people to me.
McDonalds, Burger King, Taco Bell or Chik-fil-A ? Taco Bell
Lennon or McCartney? McCartney
Where do you do your deep, introspective thinking? On a rock on top of a mountain in the Black Hills
Olympics or Xgames? Olympics
O.J. Simpson - murderer or accused and aquitted searcher for the murderer? Murderer
Snakes or spiders? Snakes
Did man ever walk on the moon? Definitely
Top 3 websites you visit every day? Foilforum, MSN, CNCZone
Lee Harvey Oswald - acted alone or a patsie? Patsie
Papa John's, Dominoes, or Pizza Hut? Pizza Hut
Best nickname you've ever been given? Shooey
How many days a year do you get out on the water and ski yourself? 75
What, in your opinion, is the perfect storm for the sport? Where is it in 5 years, what, if anything, is different? I’m not sure there will be a perfect storm for this sport. It will always appeal to those who want to try the unordinary. The two limiting factors are cost and size. It is not like grabbing a wakeboard and hitting the lake. But the big air will always be our strong point. In 5 years hopefully we will have an even more predictable ride and bigger air. I’m not sure how much bigger we can go but hopefully a few frames. I think curved wings will take over – and hopefully we will have some type of a plastic/entry level ski on the market by then.
Favorite foiler to watch? 2 of them: Dominic (he’s my kid) and Ferney (the guy I’ve looked up to as long as I’ve been riding)
Do you have a bag of stuff you take on the boat? What's in the bag? Ear plugs, rope, shims, tools, sandpaper
$10m in cash or a super power, which super power? I’ll take the cash so I can buy a huge house on a lake. :)
If you were instantly made commissioner of the newly founded World Organization of Hydrofoiling, what would be your first move? Try to coordinate an effort to get updated videos for how to ride this toy. One of the biggest hurdles is just getting up on this thing.
Rank in order of favorite to least favorite (pizza, politics, video games, The Beatles, lobster roll, a day on the water without a foil, beer, Ronald Reagan, sushi, Tom Petty, Monday Night Football, convertibles) Beer, Pizza , Convertibles, Ronald Regan , Monday Night Football, Tom Petty, The Beatles, Video Games, Lobster Roll, A day on the water without a foil, Politics, Sushi
Is there an afterlife? There better be.
Favorite all-time song that makes you happy. The Bubble Man
Favorite all-time song that makes you sad or thoughtful. I can only Imagine
A weird talent you have? Play the Tuba
Best concert you've ever attended, why? Elton John – the company I was with
Time travel exists, where/when do you travel, why? Day 1 – I would love to see the beginning of the world
Worst movie you've ever seen? I wouldn’t watch a movie I didn’t like at least a little.
Best movie you've ever seen? Blazing Saddles
If you could go anywhere for one week, where? Space to look back on Earth
Best sitcom of all time? Simpsons
Ever get someone's autograph? Who? Not that I can remember – people are just people to me.
McDonalds, Burger King, Taco Bell or Chik-fil-A ? Taco Bell
Lennon or McCartney? McCartney
Where do you do your deep, introspective thinking? On a rock on top of a mountain in the Black Hills
Olympics or Xgames? Olympics
O.J. Simpson - murderer or accused and aquitted searcher for the murderer? Murderer
Snakes or spiders? Snakes
Did man ever walk on the moon? Definitely
Top 3 websites you visit every day? Foilforum, MSN, CNCZone
Lee Harvey Oswald - acted alone or a patsie? Patsie
Papa John's, Dominoes, or Pizza Hut? Pizza Hut
Best nickname you've ever been given? Shooey