St. John’s College International Community Holds Annual Kite Flying Competition

The St. James Christian Institute’s (SJCIC) Kite Flying Competition, held on April 22, 2025, was a vibrant display of creativity, design, and aerodynamic prowess. Sixteen participants took to the skies, their kites dancing against the backdrop of a cerulean canvas. From intricately designed masterpieces to colossal aerial behemoths, the competition showcased a diverse range of kite-making skills and flying techniques. The event fostered a spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie, bringing together students, families, and community members in a shared celebration of this timeless pastime. The judging criteria spanned four distinct categories: Most Creative, Best Designed, Biggest, and Best Flying, each highlighting a different aspect of kite construction and manipulation.

Clayton Byron soared to victory in the Most Creative category, impressing the judges with his innovative and imaginative kite design. His kite, a testament to artistic ingenuity, likely incorporated unconventional materials, unique structural elements, or perhaps a narrative theme that set it apart from the rest. Vivian Byron secured the second-place position, demonstrating a commendable level of creativity and originality in her kite’s conception and execution. Their combined success showcased the Byron family’s artistic flair and contributed significantly to the overall vibrancy of the competition.

The Best Designed category recognized kites that exhibited exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and aesthetic appeal. Andre Arthurton claimed the top spot, his kite a testament to meticulous planning and precise execution. The kite’s design likely incorporated balanced proportions, harmonious color schemes, and perhaps intricate patterns or embellishments that captured the judges’ attention. Gino Liburd’s kite secured the second-place position, demonstrating a strong understanding of design principles and a keen eye for aesthetics. Both Arthurton and Liburd’s kites reflected a dedication to quality and a passion for the art of kite making.

Keshaun Merchant dominated the Biggest category, his colossal kite commanding the skies and drawing gasps of awe from the spectators. Constructing a kite of such magnitude requires not only considerable skill in design and construction but also a deep understanding of aerodynamics and structural integrity. Merchant’s kite likely pushed the boundaries of traditional kite-making, demonstrating an ambitious approach and a mastery of scale. Andre Arthurton, already recognized for his design prowess, secured the second-place position in this category as well, highlighting his versatility and skill in creating kites of varying sizes and complexities.

The Best Flying category tested the participants’ ability to control their kites with precision and grace, navigating the wind currents and executing impressive aerial maneuvers. Shavon Parris emerged as the champion in this category, showcasing exceptional kite-flying skills and a deep understanding of aerodynamic principles. Parris’s kite likely danced effortlessly through the air, responding seamlessly to the slightest adjustments and captivating the audience with its graceful movements. Gino Liburd, consistent in his strong performance, clinched the second-place position, further demonstrating his well-rounded kite-making and flying abilities.

The SJCIC Kite Flying Competition 2025 was a resounding success, showcasing the creativity, ingenuity, and sportsmanship of the participants. The event provided a platform for friendly competition, fostered a sense of community, and celebrated the timeless joy of kite flying. The winners in each category, Clayton Byron (Most Creative), Andre Arthurton (Best Designed), Keshaun Merchant (Biggest), and Shavon Parris (Best Flying), exemplified the diverse talents and skills present within the community. The second-place winners, Vivian Byron, Gino Liburd (in both Best Designed and Best Flying), and Andre Arthurton (Biggest), also demonstrated commendable achievements, further enriching the competitive landscape of the event. The participation of sixteen individuals ensured a vibrant and engaging competition, highlighting the enduring appeal of this traditional pastime.