Winds of change

"When the wind is strong, it's so enjoyable that you forget about the sweltering heat," says Chiowchar Vanjun, as his kite soars through the air.

"Anybody who likes the excitement and challenge of extreme sports will enjoy stunt kite flying," says Chiowchar, who's also into mountain biking, shooting and fishing.

He has been flying stunt kites for nearly two years.

Stunt kites, also known as sport or acrobatic kites, have two lines at a fixed length, allowing the pilot to steer his kite and perform tricks. Controlling the kite is like steering a bicycle. You pull one line in to make the kite turn in that direction. If you pull right, the kite turns right.

Chiowchar and his friend Sanya Puttacharoenlap are promoting stunt-kite flying and welcome anyone who wants to try the sport.

They provide the kites free.

"Stunt kites are going to be included in international competitions, like the Olympics, in a few years' time. I want Thais to learn more about the sport," says Chiowchar, 22, a graduate of Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi.

Chiowchar and Sanya fly their kites from 4pm to 8pm daily at Sanam Luang. It's one of the few places in Bangkok where people can fly kites unencumbered.

The pair doesn't have any prescribed course for beginners. They simply bring several different kinds and sizes of kites for anyone who wants to give it a try. People just need to ask and they'll gladly teach them the basics.

It's doesn't take long to grasp the fundamentals. If the wind is strong, the kite will instantly soar into the air. Then it only takes about 30 minutes to learn about wind direction and how to control the kite to make it fly left, right, up and down.When launching a stunt kite for the first time, it's good to have a helper.

The helper picks the kite up from behind and holds it firmly so the flying lines are off the ground. If the wind is strong, your helper need only let go and your kite will soar into the air.

Once it's airborne, you use slow, controlled movements to control the kite. Sudden, jerky moves will cause the kite's nose to dip, forcing it into a dive. And, you shouldn't lift your hands over your head to make the kite fly skyward because lifting your hands does nothing at all.

Like any sport, kite flying takes a bit of concentration and practice. You might feel tired at first. But once you relax and go with the flow, you'll become more flexible and enjoy it.

"You have to use a lot of energy to control the kite when the wind is strong," says Jathamanee Klompirom, 21, a fourth-year student at Rajabhat Pranakorn University. "But strong winds also make it more challenging and enjoyable. It's tiring, especially for people who don't exercise."

It's wise to wear sneakers to move comfortably and quickly. And wearing a high-SPF sunblock is a must.

If you want to try your hand at flying stunt kites, call Chiowchar at (085) 168 0605. If you want to learn more about stunt kites or share your experiences, log on to www.extreme-kite.com. And, if you want to buy a stunt kite, prices start at Bt1,450.

Suwicha Chanitnun

The Nation