World Sport Kite Championships
Lincoln City, Oregon  June 21-24
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Lincoln City, Oregon did not start out the year as my summer vacation destination of choice but it ended up being the best choice for me shared with a great and true friend, several great kite acquaintances, the beautiful ocean, and some of the best dual line kite flying I had ever seen. Fifteen teams from a variety of points on the globe gathered in Lincoln City to compete for bragging rights as best in the world. A few of us launched a single line kite or two as backdrop color for the event and had a fun time. Brian Champie caused a stir with his Sentinel stable (several folks wanted one) and we spent a couple days playing kites on the beach below the competition venue. We spent one day playing spectators and settled in on the edge of the field and watched a full day of precision and ballet routines. On the day that the wind decided to rage, we took off and toured the Astoria Column and had Thai food in Long Beach, WA. The social at the Gombergs' was enjoyable and the banquet meal served by the Blackfish Cafe was absolutely astounding and delicious. It was a great week and I enjoyed myself alot.

Three Lenzen dellaportas and one gray sky.

Brian's Sentinels and Birds

Al Sparling and Brian keeping an eye on the big stuff.

Peter Dolphin's kite gracing the opening ceremonies.

Hmmm...are those rips in the sky?

Jerimy Colbert and Peter Dolphin working the kite past the casino.

The Champie men at the Gomberg social.

Lincoln City is always like going home for me with great friends like Ken Tuminia and Deb Cooley.

Always an honor sharing the sky with such a classy gentleman.

Ben is growing up too quickly.

Brian and one of his favorite women.

A view of the team kite staging area. Awesome.

The dj from the radio station KYTE just happened to be from North Dakota. Gave me an unfair advantage to get some mic time.

Team Air Zone...my personal choice as best of the best.

Another shot of Air Zone

A colorful venue.

It was great playing spectator.

Thanks Brian for the flying lessons. You are the best.

Astoria Column...the history of the area is depicted on the column with stairs to the top to enjoy the view.

Balsa planes are available to launch from the top of the column...I even ran back for more it was such a blast.

Too bad I threw like such a girl.

Winding up for a manly toss.

What a fun day. Thanks Brian.

I do love the Pacific.

Looks like I'm not the only one that enjoys the ocean.

Peter Dolphin and Al Sparling playing in the light wind.

It was a surprise when Miguel showed up at Lincoln City.

Susan Gomberg makes everyone feel so welcome.

Susan Shampo and Gayle Woodul and me...I loved seeing these ladies...they are so very special.

Kids at heart.

skydance@bis.midco.net