Colorful kite flying a treat for all

BY JILL BLUE

Spectators on the beach were drawn in by impressive kite flying, some of it choreographed to music, Jan. 21 and 22 at the Cocoa Beach Kite and Beach Fest.

Fliers came from across the United States and Canada to showcase their kite-flying skills that made the kites dance to the music.

“We had a lot of very professional kite fliers,” said Lisa Willoughby, who organizes and participates in kite flying festivals across the country and abroad. “They are very talented.”

Some travel long distances to participate in the kite-flying festivals.

Al Lynch lives in a motorhome in Florida and travels to festivals where he flies some of the kites he makes. He worked in a kite store and even operated his own mobile store.

“I like making them,” he said.

Some of the spectators on the beach returned for the second day of the festival after being impressed by the colorful kites and the skillful flying.

There were kites that looked like inflated astronaut suits, birds, a snorkeler and sea creatures. They were portrayed in every color imaginable.

Multi-color flags also dotted the beach and were available for purchase. SL