February 8 and I discover it is National Kite Day. February? Kites? Maybe for the the adrenaline junkies racing across the snow pulled by large traction kites, or perhaps for the lucky folks in southern climates where cold and snow are not a reality - but February 8th in Southern Alberta?
Well, God was smiling upon this prairie boy today with a gorgeous sunny day at a balmy +16 degrees Celsius and a lovely west wind about 20 kph. The flying field was clear and dry - so I couldn't have asked for a better day in February!
I started off with a new favourite - the Toxic by R-Sky. Such a sexy dual-line kite, tuned right in and she snapped to attention. Had times where I would toss it around the sky to the delight of the children in the school yard across the way as they pressed up against the chain link to watch the Toxic strut her stuff. Lots of cheers from the pint-sized audience! Made this kite flying hack feel like a pro!
The recess bell rang and the children returned to class and the I started practi
cing forms, and a few more graceful patterns. It has been a long while since I had opportunity to enjoy an extended period of time to fly.
As you probable know - a kite day is not complete without some time with Revolution quad line kite. The winds had diminished to about 12-15kph so I chose one of my favourites - a full sail1.5 with a 3 wrap frame in our shop colours O'Canada. Talk about therapeutic! OMG - sail loaded so nicely, the wind wasn't too trashy at all. I was a bit concerned that my injured right arm would struggle with control but even my body chose to be gracious on this lovely day. I like Revs for so many reasons, I like the precision, the outa box unidirectional control, introverted flying , stop at a dime, and the way they hover, like they are nailed to the sky.
(The only bummer was couldn't find the power cord to my video camera to get the battery charge and shoot some video. I'd like to blame my kid... but truth be told... I think I'm the guilty party.)
FYI - used Shanti Warp Speed line on both kites today. Love Shanti line - performs greats, lasts forever!
A fantastic day - and the good news... the rest of the week is looking even better! I hope that wherever you are that you have time to get out and fly whatever puts a smile on your face!
Smooth Winds.
P.S. - April is National Kite Month!
Dano Wright - February 11, 2016
Glad for a fly anytime!! Got a bit of SLK action on Sunday… Club page on Facebook has pics. Coastal Bend Skypirates. Yet to write it up in my flying blog….ma-nana as we say here in Texas!!!