Pushing the Boundaries

Innovative Bridle & Train-Lines

During the 1980s, stunt kite manufacturers like Hyper Kite and Rainbow Kites produced equipment designed to handle a maximum of six kites in a single train. Mix McGraw, driven to push the limits of the sport, sought to fly much longer trains.

Leveraging his technical expertise, Mix and the team developed a custom bridle and train-line system. This innovation allowed for longer, heavier kite trains to be flown with safety and precision, setting a new standard for what stunt kite teams could achieve.

Birth of Kite Ballet

On June 15, 1980, at the Marina Green Kite Festival, Mix and Wayne unveiled a revolutionary concept: synchronized kites flown to music.

Mix envisioned the performance as a “ballet in the sky,” choreographing every movement to match the rhythm and flow of the soundtrack. What began as a bold, "crazy" idea captivated the crowd and transformed the sport, laying the groundwork for the musical kite performances that are now a staple around the world.

Record-Breaking 52-Kite Train

On his home turf at San Francisco’s Marina Green, Mix McGraw achieved the unthinkable by flying a train of 52 Rainbow Stunt Kites in unison.

Because every kite in a stack increases the physical pull and technical complexity, managing 52 kites required immense strength and the team's specialized bridle technology. This milestone pushed the boundaries of the sport and stood as a testament to the team's commitment to innovation and skill.

Double Tails

Before the Sundowners, "double tails" were unheard of. This signature technique allows the kites to leave a visual trail of their previous maneuver while simultaneously transitioning into the next—creating a seamless, flowing masterpiece in the sky.

Sponsorship

As one of the first sponsored stunt kite teams, the Bay Area Sundowners were backed by Michael McFadden’s shop, The KiteMakers. McFadden provided the team with equipment and a high-profile venue at Pier 39 to promote professional stunt kite flying.