[PHOTOSTORY 2: MOTION] Two guys and a kite

 By: Tyra Redmond 

On a cloudy Friday morning, hikers begin their journey up the infamous walk-up trail at Stone Mountain Park. Loose clothing, walking shoes, and a powerade for hydration are perfect for a tiring workout.

For some, a fanny pack and determination is the only thing needed to embark on this adventure. After all, going up the 1-mile hike can be done within 30 minutes.

"Race you to the top losers," shouted one of the kids. Immediately all the little ones take off on a mission to leave the adults behind.

While some folks run up the mountain, others run down. Most hikers enjoy running downhill because it's easier to help strengthen and stabilize their leg muscles. 

Not everyone comes to hike the trail. Dee, originally from Jamaica, brings his custom kite with him every Saturday to see it fly in the air. He's been in Georgia for the last thirty years.

Dee doesn't come alone, though; his son Jaden (left) enjoys coming along with his favorite kite. "We check the weather for breezes and a lot of wind so we can choose the right day to fly our kites. It's something for us to do so we won't be bored," stated Dee.

Once they make it to a good spot, they begin to set up. "We prefer to come out here when the wind has a percentage between 15 and 20 percent," said Dee.

 

                                       

Teamwork makes the dream work. Jaden and Dee begin to release the line from the kite by stepping back.

                                                 

Dee extends the line, so Jaden continues to move out further. As the wind steadily strengthens, Dee does this quickly to ensure the kite goes high enough.

                                       

        Jaden rushes up the mountain to fly his kite. "We've got to hurry before it rains, "he shouted.

"Ok, here we go," said Dee. He begins to let the kite up by bridle point and let the line out.

                                    There it goes, headed for the sky..up and away. Will it go any higher?

                  

Dee continues to pull on the line as the kite points up so it will climb. He repeats these steps so the kite will reach a higher altitude.

Jaden is watching from afar, judging the kite's height." I've seen higher, but this isn't too bad," he said.

Roughly 20 minutes later, the father and son make their way down the mountain with their kites to exit the park. Surely they'll be back next weekend... until next time.