Go fly a kite! You’ll be in good company at the 16th Annual Davis Bay Fun Fly on May 28 and 29. Kite enthusiasts from Oregon, Washington, Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland are scheduled to arrive with cars and vans full of unique, mostly-handcrafted kites, banners, and arches.
The tides favour a 10 a.m. start on the sand flats. Organizers are hoping the wind and sun will also cooperate for a stunning display of colour and aerodynamics each day.
The two Lees – Lee Taylor and Leigh Blakey – of Two Lees Studio in Halfmoon Bay currently own and operate a wind-art business. Artist Blakey designs the kites, and Taylor is involved in the more physical aspects – cutting, sewing, rigging and flying. But back in 1989, they were toy shop owners researching stock when they attended a kite workshop in Fort Warden, Washington. Joining over 200 avid students of kite-making, and 30 kite builders, they witnessed an outstanding display of aerodynamics and artistry with two-line stunt kites – and they were hooked. When they returned home with about five kites in the back of the van, “our kids thought we’d joined a cult!” said Taylor.
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The first Fun Fly started with a few fliers coming to demonstrate the stunt kites. By the fourth year, the event had spread over two days to accommodate American participants, and had become a victim of its own success. Traffic congestion and crowds made it too dangerous to fly the unpredictable double-line sports kites, and now only single-line kites are permitted.
Don’t have a kite, but want to fly one? No problem! Lee says everybody comes with more than one kite. He’ll be bringing at least 30 to 40 kites from his collection of over 200, and most kite fans will have a carful of their favourites. This is a great opportunity to pick up tips on flying, repair or building from the experts - and a unique handcrafted new or slightly used kite as well.
For more information on kites and Two Lees Studio, visit their website at geocities.com/two_lees
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