Grandpa Wu Fabao flies the “Love China” kite at Swan Lake Square.
March has arrived, with grass sprouting and birds singing. Are you still buried in work all day, too busy rushing around to enjoy life? Come on, let’s step into the spring sunshine and breathe in the fragrance of flowers and earth. Look—kites are soaring in the skies above squares, parks, and open fields.
An octogenarian’s 20-year love affair with kites
Just after 1 p.m. yesterday, Grandpa Liu Zhiguo from Mengcheng Road couldn’t stay indoors any longer. After saying goodbye to his family, he hopped on his bicycle and headed straight for Xinghua Park.
At 80 years old, Liu is sprightly despite his age. When he arrived at Xinghua Park, the place was bustling with people, and not far from the square, a familiar group was waiting for him. These old buddies, just like Liu, are die-hard kite enthusiasts.
Over the next few hours, Liu and his companions would compete in the square: seeing whose kite could fly the highest, whose the steadiest. After working up a sweat, they’d sit together, sharing their successes and setbacks. With a cup of tea and a smile, they’ve spent countless happy hours this way.
Liu is the oldest in the group—and the one with the longest kite-flying passion. “It’s been 20 years, ever since I retired at 60 until now at 80. Rain or snow days aside, I come to the park to fly kites every single day.” You might not believe it, but everyone who regularly flies kites at Xinghua Park knows Grandpa Liu.
“There are many sports seniors can’t do, but flying kites is an ideal choice,” Liu says. His good health is thanks to his daily kite-flying. “Flying kites is great—it exercises your neck, shoulders, waist, and even your eyes. I feel off if I skip a day.”
Look out—the “Lord Bao” crashes into the “shark”!
Liu has been flying kites for 20 years, and he’s definitely among the best of the best. Of course, his usual playmates are no amateurs either.
Yesterday afternoon, 67-year-old Grandpa Wu Fabao—who’s also among the top flyers—had a friendly “match” with Liu. The result? A close draw. Liu’s kite was a roughly two-meter-wide triangle, while Wu’s round “Love China” kite had a diameter of over two meters. “Round kites are relatively harder to fly, and those two kites in their hands—no amateur could get them up. A bystander explained.
Inspired by Liu and others, dozens of different types of kites filled the sky over Xinghua Park yesterday. Many visitors, after watching, couldn’t resist buying their own kites and giving it a try.
“Mommy, look—the ‘Lord Bao’ is crashing into the ‘shark’!” A child’s shout from the crowd made Liu and his friends burst out laughing.
Seniors teach you how to fly kites
Liu says kite flying should be done in open, unobstructed areas. When running against the wind, watch your step. Stay away from power lines and trees—trees often block the kite and prevent it from lifting, and kites can easily get tangled in branches or utility equipment. Timing is key when letting out the line: when the wind is weak, pull the line back quickly and forcefully to give the kite a boost; if the kite starts to sink, tighten the line immediately.