Zhao Dingshang, vice director of the Daishan Kite Association, poses with a kite. [Photo/zj.zjol.com.cn] 

It is never too late to pursue dreams, according to Zhao Dingshang, 63.

Born and raised in Daishan, an island county in Zhoushan, Zhao started flying kites with his friends at the age of 10. 

In those days, he would make his own kite with scraps of newspaper, branches and fishing nets. The Lulanqingsha scenic spot, home to the longest beach in Zhejiang, was his favorite place to fly. 

Kite-flying has been a popular pastime in Daishan for a long time. The local people used to call a kites "sparrow hawks", due to their resemblance to birds of prey. 

In 2010, Zhao, who had by then become a government official, decided to return to his childhood hobby after learning that local authorities planned to promote the activity. 

He joined a local kite association. 

Zhao had to start from scratch. With great determination, he managed to learn the ropes, but not before making several mistakes. 

In 2014, Zhao, who had retired from work, participated in the Daishan International Sports Kite Competition and won second place in the soft kite category. 

His kite, in the shape of an octopus, was 30 meters long and covered an area of 20 square meters. 

"It is my first award and I'm still excited about it!" Zhao said excitedly. 

Zhao said he felt like a kid when flying kites, and he has received a lot of joy from the sport over the years, even though it's hard on his skin and hands. 

Flying kites, which used to be a children's game, is becoming increasingly popular among the older generation, he said, adding that he has become a professional kite player. 

Now Zhao serves as the vice director of the Daishan Kite Association. 

Thanks to his diligent efforts, the association has expanded from more than 10 members to nearly 1,000. 

Zhao has remained dedicated to the promotion of Daishan as an ideal destination for kite flying by participating various competition worldwide.

Daishan has hosted numerous renowned kite-flying competitions. As of 2019, the International Sports Kite Competition has been held in the county for eight years in a row. The Lulanqingsha scenic spot has emerged as an arena for kite masters from across the world.

"Maybe everyone has a kite in their heart, no matter what it means, let's pursue our dreams with courage," Zhao said.