Stunt kites typically have two lines. The flier uses a handle at the end of the line to hold one in each hand. Other specialized kite competitions call for single line kites, but those are usually tests of kite construction and beauty, Broder said. It's not a strength sport, so much as one of finesse, Broder said. He's surprised the sport is dominated by men, when women can compete just as easily and perhaps better.
Competitions take place at locations across the nation and all across the world.
For the Midwest Conference, kite festivals this year have been in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. The World Cup will be in France. Broder said he wishes he could travel to more festivals, but while the sport itself is not so costly, travel expenses can be. Because the sport is relatively young, most fliers come to know one another well, with mostly the same people showing up time and again. Only one other Iowan is a competitive flier, and Broder said he would certainly like to see more interest in the sport closer to home.