Introducing, Don Tabor's Action/Top Of The Line Prototype Kite SR# SCJ231. This particular kite represents the evolution of the "Hawaiian Team Kite" and the start of the new company that would become Top Of The Line SportKites. The most remarkable fact about this kite is that it is an Action brand kite but Don branded it with his new company name, in his own hand. But why? Why?, because he knew he was on to something. He knew there was a better kite within his original design. He could see it and now we can too!
This historic kite was graciously donated to Soarin Kites by Robert Loera.
The evolution of the Hawaiian Team Kite begins with Don Tabor's first "big wing" design, the "Action Kite". Prior to the "Action Kite" was the smaller "Action 8.2". In 1981, at Beauty In The Wind kite store in San Diego, CA, store owner Richard Loera suggested to Don to "make it bigger"! And big it went, going from 8.2 sq. ft. to 20 sq. ft. of sail!
The name of the "Action Kite" would later change to "Phoenix 20".
Don continually experimented with the design of the "Action Kite". The center sections were changed to chevron panels. Eye appealing (Form) & sail strengthening (Function)
The most significant change to the "Action Kite" design was changing the trailing edge angles, this modification improved many features.
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Greatly reduces the overall trailing edge length
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Shortens the batten length which also reduces the batten movement and stress.
The last modification gave the sail the strength where it needed it the most, along the lowest part of the sail at the trailing edge. The stripe panels also helped give the new kite its distinctive look. The "Hawaiian Team Kite" was born.
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The Flight Squadron (L-R, Ron Reich, Pam Kirk, Mike Dennis & Paul Hodges) pose with their Custom "Flag" NSR's at Half Penny Park, Coronado, CA.
Three of the kites as they appear today.
