What is a Flare / Pancake?

[AndrewMarani]

After much searching here and on the internet in general, I still cannot figure out what a "Flare" is with a two line sport kite.  Apparently it is so basic to kite flying that it's like breathing, no specific explanation is needed.  I find it listed, but always along the lines of "From a Flare...", or "start with a flare..." or "it can be done from a flare at any point", "from a flare go to a fade".  

So, for a beginner, please explain what a flare is.

Thanks,

Andrew

[John Barresi]

Pancake position, kite in face down nose away position (mid air).

Usually entered with a fast push on both hands while flying downward, or as the result of a "fractured axel".


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[makatakam]

I had a fractured axle once and it put my car in the ditch.

[Exult]

1 hour ago, John Barresi said:

a fast push on both hands while flying downward

I was about to write that it helps (/often can help?) to add a little tension in the lines just before the release. Then I realised that I haven't tested it without the initial pull for a very long time, i.e. I haven't questioned it in 15 years or so (and should do so).

[John Barresi]

Excellent fine point Exult, and I should also add that the "push" is typically done starting with both hands at or behind your hips then a fast reach straight toward the kite (sudden slack)... Amount of slack needed to flare varies from kite to kite, some need a huge throw and some will do a backflip with enough input.


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[John Barresi]

Flic flac is started with a flare...

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[AndrewMarani]

Awesome.  I would have never figured that out without that bit of explanation.  Looking forward to trying it out.  Thanks.

[Exult]

I think that this is a good topic. How about changing the headline to only "Flare" and put it into "Home > Sport Kites > Trick" (if AndrewMarani who initiated this topic wouldn't mind)? There is no such topic in the trick section. Possibly include Belly Landings in the head line as well, since the only thing added to a flare doing a Belly Landing is timing. (The topic "Flick Flacs" exists however, but doesn't contain any info/hints on how to do the trick.)

[John Barresi]

I'll beef up the title, move the topic and leave a link in the original section.

[John Barresi]

Done, referral link in the old category disappears after 45 days.