American Kitefliers Association

Corina,

Congratulations on a successful first event. Your 3-day will be even bigger.

The big kites and the ground bouncers (Bols and such) don't stay up all the time. Someone has to keep a close eye on them at all times that they are in the air. Someone should be near the anchor at all times and know how to manage big kites. You have to take them down at night.

I have Kite Boarders coming as well as Kite Flyers!  Not only will we fly kites off the beach and breakwalls but on a large flying field about a block away.  I will be hosting a corn roast, concert in the evening, and dogs on the grill during the day for participants!  This is our first event and I am open to all suggestions.  Please check out www.portsanilac.net!  I am looking forward to hosting this event.  Not only is there a beach and play ground for the kids but camping across from the lighthouse and a paved lot for R.V.'s .  Please register.  Susan Gill

You need to get www.portsanilac.net to cover your event. I searched for "kite" and did not see anything.

The mega bol and other spinning items have an added risk since they attract kids and if you get too close you can get hurt by the lines. They are great for attracting attention but you MUST have them supervised at all times. I have a general rule that you can approach the bol and some of the other large kites from the rear or side as long as you stay behind the bridles and of course depending on the wind. I let them take a picture then move away. I find that I tell them its friendly but he can bite your ear off if you get too close. Then I tell dad that the rope burn from the lines can severly hurt you so make sure you stay away from them. Most of the time its a quick picture then they move on. If they linger I ask them to step back and of course its a good idea to have an area roped off to control access. When the crowd gets bigger since I cant control a mob no one is allowed to go near the kites etc. Having a safe day is the number one priority.

I'm a little late signing in on this one but I have to second what Capt-Richard suggested.  I build and "fly" a lot of ground dispaly stuff, inclucing some fairly large rotors.  The movement makes them real kid magnets.  I can tell you this for sure.  You can't count on the parents to supervise properly.  You have to attend to your gear at all times. 

To all of you who are actively promoting kiting events in your area.....good job and good luck!!!!