Prism Snapshot 1.9 flying over the Roman Theater in Gubbio, Italy

In 1997, I could have never thought that a hobby such as kite flying would ever lead into such travel opportunities that have been afforded me over the last 5 years. With the last two festivals I have attended being on opposite ends of the earth, but both were special just the same. Getting the opportunity to travel to Gubbio, Italy, and participate in their annual spring fly was special, while Gubbio is a very small town in north Umbria, the history is absolutely incredible.  The kite club has an admirable membership. With many members and their wives participating, the Kite club had quarters not only served as a kite storage and making facility, but also a place that had a full kitchen complete with all the facilities to make fresh pasta. This club is not only a flying club, it definitely is also a social club.

A couple of fun loving kids enjoying the Gubbio kite festival

While the fly was semi rained out, it did not stop us from still flying, if I came a half a world away to fly a kite, by god I was going to. On two days filled with 50 degree temps, fog, and rain we still managed to fly what we all brought. There were other guests from Germany, and France that also attended the festival. Each day were never fully rained out, as each day there was enough clear skies to dry everything out, and get it packed up before the rains came again.

Making friends in Gubbio was special, and something that I will carry with me the rest of my life. I will return to Gubbio, and I will also meet these friends at other festivals in Europe when my schedule allows.

Large foil kite by the Gubbio Kite club

The Kite club’s website is: http://www.eologubbio.com/index.php