Side Slide

Definition:

In the SIDE SLIDE, the kite travels horizontally while the nose points straight up. The line of travel should be straight, with no altitude gained or lost, and no wobble or lean in the kite's orientation. SLIDES performed close to the ground generally receive higher scores. The method and direction of entry and exit are not important. A SLIDE is considered excellent when it is long (maintained through at least half of the wind window) and the pilot does not move sideways.

Key elements:

Duration of side slide at least 3 seconds. Wingtips parallel to the ground. No sideways movement by the pilot. Exit is free (could even be a landing)

Judges view:

Stability. No altitude gained or lost, the pilot does not move sideways (if the pilot moves sideways at the same speed as the kite, it's a stall NOT a side slide = 0 points!)

The wingtips remain parallel to the ground, close to the ground

Most common errors:

Changes in speed and height. Pilot moving sideways.