Skies above Andrews Factory come alive for annual kite competition

The sky over the historic Andrews Factory was filled with vibrant colors and the iconic “hum” of Bajan craftsmanship on Monday during the St Joseph annual kite-flying event. 

This tradition, which has its roots in the post-harvest celebrations of the sugar belt, continues to serve as a vital cultural touchstone for the parish, bridging the gap between the island’s industrial past and its living folk traditions.

​Despite a slightly delayed start to the official proceedings, the spirits of enthusiasts weren’t dampened. Many participants arrived early to catch the optimal morning breeze, and by the time the event was in full swing, a fleet of kites was already dancing against the blue sky.

​For many in attendance, the day was less about formal competition and more about the preservation of a lifelong passion. Rodney Clarke, a veteran kite maker known to many as “Mauby,” was seen meticulously assembling a new creation after his first kite of the day succumbed to the elements. 

Reflecting on his lifelong hobby, he noted, “I’ve been doing [this] from small… There’s an annual thing that we have here. It comes from the end of a fun day to where it is now.”

Clarke explained that the community spirit trumped the prizes on offer. 

“It’s just as fun as we get. It don’t be really no competition… just come and enjoy yourself,” he said.

​The event also drew Rohan Corbin, who has been into kite flying since he was 10 years old. Although he no longer resides in the community he always looks forward to participating in the event. 

Standing nearby was Kerry Marshall, a flyer with three decades of experience. Although he currently resides in Florida, he  made the trip back to Barbados specifically for the event.

​”I’ve been flying kites for the last 20 years to 30 years. The sound of it, movement… and that’s a craft, you know, making different characters. We went from paper kites to plastic kites so they can [last] now… it’s just a craft to look awesome,” Marshall said.

Though it was his first year officially entering the competition, Marshall was optimistic about his chances, stating, “I got a lot of [confidence] so far… it seems very positive.”

​While the veterans showed off their technical prowess, the event also welcomed new faces like Treshad Blenman. Though he has been flying since he was eight-years-old, this year marked his competitive debut. 

When asked how he felt about his chances of victory, Blenman offered a candid and humorous take: “Not confident. Not confident,” he laughed, as he pulled his damaged kite down, ruling him out of the day’s activity.

The event once again proved that in the heart of St. Joseph, the tradition of kite flying remains a soaring testament to Bajan ingenuity and the enduring strength of local bonds.

(RR)