The Magnum Opus :::

The Magnum Opus is the true symbol of the Chicago Fire. Designed by Eric Wolff, this kite is still as unique today as it was ground-breaking in 1991. The standard Magnum Opus, with it's 10-foot wingspan commands attention, especially when flown by a team. The Magnum Opus is a perfect team kite -- agile, precise, predictable and beautiful.

The Magnum Opus came in three versions: Standard, SUMO (Super Ultralight Magnum Opus) and ELMO (Extra Large Magnum Opus). The SUMO set new standards for ultralight performance. The ELMO dominated the sky with it's 12-foot wigspan.

The "Uncle Fuzzy" color-scheme (above, left) is, perhaps, the most popular and most recognized version of the Magnum Opus. The Chicago Fire uses this color-scheme in both standard and SUMO versions to perform crowd-pleasing demos

The ELMO (above, top-right) is a full 12-feet across, and as tall as some adults. It was designed by Eric Wolff in 1993 to take advantage of the lightest breezes. Although modern kite framing technology has alleviated the necessity of greater sail area, the ELMO is a sight worth seeing, and a kite worth flying.

The "Boy" color-scheme (above, bottom-right) is from the Chicago Fire's renowned "Chorus Line" routine. This ballet was flown with six people. Three used "boys" and three flew "girls". The Chicago Fire still flies this routine in demos as it remains a crowd favorite.

The Chicago Fire Kite Team used the Magnum Opus to win three masters team precision national chapionships between 1994 and 1998.

Both the Standard and the SUMO are still available by special order through you favorite retailer from Shanti Kite Company.