IHPA FreeFlight Winter 2014

IHPA

FreeFlight Official magazine of the Irish Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association

IN THIS

ISSUE

WINTER 2014

Summer Flying Bobby Gillham’s flying trips to Spain • Marvelous Montellano Munster Kestrel’s favourite site • Site Guide Mount Leinster • Fun & Fly Dorin Borodescu’s competing holiday 2014 • Fly SAFE John Welch outlins what to be aware of when costal soaring • Hike & Fly SPAIN Mario and Rafal Hike and Fly Spain in September • DIY Flight Instrument How to create a Hi-End flight instrument at a fraction of the price • SIV David May tells about his second SIV course

IHPA

H T Sugar Loaf, Co. Wicklow Uli Burger SHOT

Content Log Book Site Guide

6 7

Mount Leinster, Ireland’s premier free flying site.

Another SIV

9

David May tells about his second SIV course

Summer Flying

14

Bobby Gillham’s flying trips to Spain

Fun & Fly

18

Dorin Borodescu’s competing holiday 2014

Marvelous Montellano

23

Gilbert Glennon guides us through one of the Munster Kestrel’s favourite sites

Samba Soaring!

28

While visiting Brazil in August Paul Hogan dragged his glider along

IHPA Pilot

30

Q&A with Ken Hickey

DIY Flight Instrument

31

How to create a Hi-End flight instrument at a fraction of the price

Hike & Fly SPAIN

33

Mario and Rafal took their Hike and Fly experience one step further and travelled to Spain in September

Why Bulgaria

39

When planning your next paragliding adventure Bulgaria is the place to consider

Fly Safe

41

John Welch, CFI Flight Culture, outlines a number of factors we need to be aware of before attempting to go costal soaring.

IHPA Sponsors

46

THE EDITOR David May E-mail: freeflight@ihpa.ie DESIGN & PRODUCTION Design Focus, The Warehouse, 26A Mount Eden Road, Dublin 4. www.designfocus.ie Free Flight Magazine is published by the Irish Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association Ltd to inform, educate and entertain those in the sports of Paragliding and Hang Gliding. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Irish Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, their Council, Officers or Editor. The Editor reserves the right to edit contributions.

Contact Send your articles, jokes, comments, sketches, suggestions etc to:

freeflight@ihpa.ie

FROM THE

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

editor

Year end...

With Christmas just around the corner and a few days off, who knows - you might just squeeze another flight or two from the year? A quick boat around the local site perhaps or even just a top-to-bottom. Whatever it might be, one thing is certain, flying at this time of year is not for the faint of heart. It’s just so brrrrrrrrrrrr cold. No matter how well I cover up it never takes long for my hands to freeze and it’s necessary to land before I can no longer work the controls. A little warming sachet dropped into each glove makes a difference but still the hands go. Or more precisely, the fingers. And ouch can it hurt as they warm up again!

But let’s not dwell on the negative. On the positive side it can be so beautiful this time of year. The air is crisp and clear, everywhere is quiet and peaceful and you may well have the sky to yourself. Add a blanket of snow on the ground and an old familiar flying site is transformed into something new - a picture postcard. It’s the perfect time to get the camera out so to all you hardy souls make sure to take some great photos and send them in to us.

Of course, being Christmas there’s also the matter of the Naughty List. It can be hard to say what we might find in the stocking come morning but best to live in hope I say. Last year for example I asked Santa for more airtime in 2014 but that didn’t quite materialise, so I guess that puts me on the Naughty side of things back then. I’m hoping to do better in 2015 and reading the articles we have lined up in this edition makes me even more hopeful. So for what it’s worth I’ve been good Santa... honest.

But that's enough about me. The magazine is about you and a huge thank you to all who contributed this time round. Without your input... well, there just wouldn’t be a magazine. There are some great articles inside and I hope you enjoy them as much as we did putting it together. And who knows, maybe you’ll be inspired for 2015 and we’ll be reading about you in the next edition.

But for now, from all of us here in the Free Flight office, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Ho ho ho...

PAGE 5

LogBook Problems in the Dolomites Mt Leinster Luca Basso, FIVL, has asked us to alert all pilots who hope to fly in the Dolomites, expecially in Canazei – Col Rodella – Pordoi – Marmolada, read the following.

The Dolomites area is again at risk of being closed to free flight.

The search & rescue helicopter service in the Dolomites area (Canazei, Col Rodella, Pordoi, Marmolada) is still struggling with pilots, from all over Europe, who keep flying during rescue operations and not allow the helicopter to properly operate to help fellow free flight pilots that need assistance.

The situation is so bad that the authorities will close the area if we can't manage to solve this problem.

In order to keep everybody safe and in order to keep the area open to free flight, one of the most beautiful flight areas in the world, all pilots flying in the Dolomites area are requested to: 1. Use rescue number 118.

2. If a helicopter (red or yellow) arrives fly

2 km away from the operation area.

3. If a helicopter arrives, pilots in flight must be advised by radio to fly 2km away (or if possible land).

4. If the radio is not understood they have to do “ears” with the paraglider to advise (as in competitions).

5. If a helicopter is hovering, it does not mean it has reached the rescue area (maybe it is only waiting for paragliding pilots to move away!)

6. Pilots should carry red and green smoke signals. If a pilot has or arrives upon an accident and are in danger or need medical help they have to light the red smoke signal. If they do not need help light the green smoke signal or fold the wing (if possible). Pilots can obtain smoke signals in the Canazei landing area.

From Bird Man to Iron Man Congratulations to Paul Eustase on competing and completing the KMD Ironman Copenhagen.

Not for the faith hearted this grueling event has contestants swimming 3.8km, cycling 180km and then capping it off with a marathon.

Paul did it all in 12 hours 25 mins, way ahead of his best expectations, and has fired him up for more.

“The two questions I’ve been asked since finishing are: was it worth it and would I do it again?

Weather Station Up and Running It’s been a long slog but thanks to Gerry Kennedy the IHPA weather station at Mt Leinster is now back up and running.

The old station was unable to be repaired after sustaining significants weather damage over the years so it was decided to purchase a new one from Holfuy, a weather station developer based in Hungry. Their stations are geared to work in extreme weather conditions, and along with the industrial grade sensors kindly donated by Martin Sweeney, it is expected that this new station will fair a lot better.

The whole setup is now quite robust with the station connected to the mounting pole, drilled into the mountain, that withstood sustained winds of over 100mph last year.

At the moment the station is feeding temperature, wind speed and wind direction with a camera and air pressure sensor to be added in the new year.

In the future it is hoped replacing faulty sensors will be able to done on the mast so will be a quick affair (touch wood).

Log onto ihpa.ie >weather >sites and checkout the new interface.

“Was it worth the 5am alarms, the late evenings training in the wind and rain, the looong cycles at the weekend and the lack of a life outside training. When you cross that finish line, yes absolutely. If you could bottle that feeling and sell it you’d be very wealthy.

“Would I do it again? Never. Ever. Again...

Who am I kidding? I’d do it again tomorrow!”

PAGE 6

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

SiteGuide

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

Mt. Leinster Co. Carlow / Co. Wexford Mt. Leinster, Ireland’s premier free flying site, lies at the northern end of the Blackstair Mountains on the border of Co. Carlow and Co. Wexford.

With a tarmacked road leading all the way up to its summit at 2608 feet, Mt. Leinster reaches some 2280 feet above the surrounding plain, offering commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Mt. Leinster is flyable in almost all wind directions except an easterly and, with so many launch sites, offers something for every one from the novice (under supervision) to the top XC comp hound.

Cross-country flying is possible in all directions. A simple hop down onto the Blackstairs will take you at least 15km, while, with a leap of faith, you can head 30km+ north to the Wicklow Mountains or east to the coast.

Access to the summit road from the Nine Stones is through a locked gate. New keys are issued to IHPA members each year when they renew their membership and insurance.

Please do not allow non-IHPA or visiting pilots through the gate unless they have received express permission from the IHPA WARNING: Do not fly the SE Bowl site or land in the Diamond field if there is a high pressure inversion layer, even in light conditions. The winds down in the Diamond field can be severe. Extreme wind shear and 180° direction change have been experienced and can be fatal. The winds are funnelled through the Scullogue Gap and are compressed by the inversion to produce a lethal combination of strong gusting eddies. It would be safer to fly over the back and land in the Bonesetters field. If you are not certain that you can do this then don’t fly. This site requires that pilots have a minimum of 50 hours airtime, as there is no easy landing field in front of take off and novice pilots will be caught out.

Caution needs to be exercised when flying from the mast in a due south wind. Rotors coming off the Blackstair Mts. can be very dangerous in anything other than a light wind

Wind Direction: N

W

E

S

For details on most popular flying sites around Mt. Leinster see over.

General Information: Westerly Car Park

For details on most popular flying sites around Mt. Leinster see over.

Nine Stones Car Park GOOGLE MAPS

Nine Stones Car Park

CLICK HERE

GPS COORDINATES Car Park: 52.636843, -6.793677 ELEVATION: 400m.

Mast

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

The Nine Stones Car Park, opposite the gate to the summit, is the main assembly point for pilots to meet up as it affords easy access to both Slevebawn and Black Banks ridges. It also allows pilots park their cars and continue up to the summit in pooled transport as parking is limited on top.

PAGE 7

SiteGuide

MT. LEINSTER CO. CARLOW / CO. WEXFORD M

Westerly Car Park GOOGLE MAPS

B

C

CLICK HERE

GPS COORDINATES Take Off: 52.655618, -6.770784, AMSL 350m.

Landing: 52.655807, -6.775003, AMSL 190m

A Car Park

E

N

W

E

S

In a westerly wind the Westerly Car Park (WCP) is the best place to fly at Mt Leinster. If wind is strong it’s recommended to move down the slop to launch (A). Fly close to ridge to stay in lift and gain height and when sufficiently high (approx 50m above take off) you can move over the forest on western side of Croaghan (B), but always making sure you have enough height to fly out and away from trees. Paragliders can land in field below ridge (C) but be aware it has a steep slope. Hang Gliders land in the Bone Setters Field (Google Maps). Top landing should only be attempted in area south of the ridge (E).

Slevebawn C

GOOGLE MAPS

N

CLICK HERE W

E

GPS COORDINATES Take Off: 52.638340, -6.796259, AMSL 430m.

Landing: 52.637325, -6.795168 AMSL 400m

A B

Car Park

Slevebawn, or Nine Stones Ridge, is ideal for flying N - NE winds.

Depending on wind strength, launch from the slope opposite the car park (A) and work your way along and up the ridge. If conditions are right you can hop over to Black Banks and back again but always taking extra care with the power cables separating both ridges. With a NE direction the lift band area can be a reduced and become congested. Top landing is in the area in between the car park and ridge (B) but can suffer from venturi so care is needed on approach. If conditions rule out a top landing then head for the Northern Landing Field (C) while being aware that direction and strenght maybe different from conditions on the ridge.

Black Banks

C

GOOGLE MAPS

N

CLICK HERE

GPS COORDINATES Take Off: 52.637420, -6.787872, AMSL 419m.

Landing: 52.637325, -6.795168 AMSL 400m

B

W

E

S

When wind is N - NW Black Banks is a great place to fly. If conditions are right you can launch about 20m -30m above the road (A) and then work your way up the ridge. Be careful not to go to far back above the ridge and always check forward motion as wind can pick up at higher levels. Landing is the same as Slevebawn, in the Nine Stones Landing zone (B) , but you can also land in the few flat areas below the road or head for the Northern Landing Field (C).

A Car Park

Mast

N

Car Park

GOOGLE MAPS

B

S

A

CLICK HERE

GPS COORDINATES Take Off: 52.618455, -6.781516, AMSL 790m.

Landing: 52.618624, -6.781043 AMSL 790m.

W

E

S

Easily the most challenging site, the Mast at Mount Leinster commands spectacular views over the surrounding counties and spectacular flying (A).

If conditions are right a flight from the Mast can lead to some great XC flying. Top landing (B) is possible but great care is needed with mast and it’s associated support cables as well as the rough landing conditions with rock, bolders, bog holes and heather. If unable to top land then head for the Cross Roads field for Paragliders (Google Maps) or Diamond Field for Hang Gliders (Google Maps).

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

PAGE 8

Another year, another...

David May completed a three day SIV course in October and now feels he’s a more confident and safer pilot.

H

aving just bought a new wing, I figured this would be a perfect time to do a SIV course so I booked with Flyeo in France for 3 days in October. I had been on a SIV course the year before but it was not with Flyeo and I had promised myself then that I would do another in 2014. Between moving country, finding a new job and a place to live, it was late in the year before I got round to organising it and by then Flyeo was the only option available.

Not that I minded - I had heard a lot of positive feedback about Flyeo and I was curious to try them out myself.

to the border along the A1 (E62). Otherwise it takes a little longer as you can't use the Swiss Motorways (unless you want to run the risk of a fine) but it's no problem with a Sat Nav. The drive to Doussard takes you to Annecy first and then skirts along the west side of the lake to Doussard. On a clear day I imagine there would be some very nice views of the lake and mountains beyond but unfortunately the day I arrived base was low and overcast and there wasn't really much to see.

As is often the case with these random groups there was a good mix of people and experience.

They are based in Doussard, on the Southern side of Lake Annecy. Very easy to get to; I flew into Geneva and hired a car - it's only about 1.5 hrs to Doussard. HERE'S A TIP: rent your car from the French sector of the airport. It's just a short walk through the airport and car hire is cheaper. With luck the car you hire will already have the Swiss motorway sticker so you can take the shortest route IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

The SIV course was from Mon Oct 13 Wed Oct 16. Accommodation, including the night before the course, is included in the price which makes it all very easy to organise. There are 2 apartments, both similar in layout: a good sized kitchen, bathroom and 3 or 4 single beds in another room. The 2 apartments are available to all on the course so be prepared to share.

PAGE 9

FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

If this is not to your liking you can always arrange your own accommodation in the area. As is often the case with these random groups there was a good mix of people and experience. We had a number of French pilots - one a violinist with the Orchestre de Paris no less - an Italian acro pilot, a few pilots from the UK, one of whom spends much of his time living and flying in Chamonix (the lucky sod!) and finally myself holding up the Irish side. There was also a full range of wings from EN A through D and our Italian friend with his new Acro wing. Everyone was in good spirits and looking forward to the course so the stage was set for an interesting few days.

less manoeuvres on this SIV than on the previous one but I was happy to do so as it provided more repetition and a better feeling for the tasks. Fabien provided short feedback between each flight and gave clear instructions for the next one. There was a dedicated camera woman to record the action including audio with Fabiens instruction and in the evening we had a long debrief where he went through all the footage back at the Flyeo office, providing explanation and slowing down the action to point out various things. I was amazed by how much he saw from the boat that only appeared to me in slow motion on the big screen, after he pointed it out! To each his own I guess.

Our course was run by Fabien Blanco, one of the founders of Flyeo. Enthusiastic and expressive, his passion for the sport is apparent and he proved to be an excellent instructor. His english is very good and not in any way an issue for those of us who don't 'parlez le Francais' (ahem!). As the weather on the Monday was poor and we were grounded Fabien took the opportunity to give us an extended lecture on the dynamics between pilot and wing and how it all works together (or doesn't as is often the case) which I found to be excellent. Of course we would all have preferred to be in the air but none the less it was time well spent.

All in all, I was very satisfied with the course and feel I have learned something new. Not so much an increase in skill as repeating a manoeuvre even two or three times is not enough to believe I have become in any way proficient. But I understand it more, both how it should be and what it is I am doing wrong. I feel more comfortable with my new wing now that I have experienced how it may misbehave and rather than put me off I was left wanting more, to take off and do it all again. I am confident that with some practice I can master the exercises which can only make me a safer pilot.

I feel more comfortable with my new wing now that I have experienced how it may misbehave

The weather improved Tuesday and Wednesday and we completed the SIV with 3 flights each day. We used the Montmin launch site, large and well laid out and about 800m above the lake. I performed PAGE 10

I think those of you who have already experienced a SIV will understand. And those of you who have not then I would recommend you do one. I'll certainly be going back to Flyeo, hopefully I won't wait so late in the year next time. â– IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

Flyeo is well known for their SIV courses, organised in spring and Autumn, within a secured environment above Annecy's Lake.

The SIV course (simulation of flight incidents) is first and foremost a piloting course where pilots learn to optimize the use of their wing for maximum safety, sensations and pilot performance.

The aim of the course: • Understanding the reactions of your wing in turbulence • Demystifying the different possible incidents in flight and learning to manage them • Optimising rapid descents

Annecy

• Build up confidence with a new wing, or recover confidence after a flight incident

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

PAGE 11

IHPA

H T Bray Head Dara Hogan SHOT

Summertime...

and the flying is easy.

FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

Bobby Gillham topped and tailed his summer with two flying trips to Spain and added some more precious hours to the logbook.

A

nother summer over, another college year begun. But not before there was some flying to be done! An earlier trip to Ager and Southern Spain, followed by a return to the Pyrenees in August made for some wonderful flying experiences.

Coming out of the long winter hibernation last May just couldn’t come quick enough. Seven or eight months without flying had just been too much! The trip to Spain began with a week in the south.

We were blessed with the weather and each day brought a new destination: El Bosque, Teba, Algodonales and even the sand dunes off the south coast. From making my first flight the summer before, to making my longest flight and experiencing dune flying - the week couldn’t have gone any better. And to my amazement, the good fortunes were set to continue.

We travelled to Ager, where a combination of top-tobottoms, along with a few longer flights reaching great heights only helped to increase my enthusiasm for the sport The following week we travelled to Ager, where a combination of top-to-bottoms, mixed in with a few longer flights reaching great heights only helped to increase my enthusiasm for the sport. When the last day arrived, I knew August would be a long wait!

But August eventually came and I was back in the Pyrenees again with nothing but flying on my mind and time on my hands. The following weeks would provide me with a chance to make the last few summer memories and although the highs of the summer may not have been reached, it was none the less a perfect end to a great flying year.

And now we’ve come full circle with another whole winter of college ahead. Stuck at home with all the flying equipment, but without good weather, a car or a driving license makes the coming months all the more frustrating! It’s a problem though that’s up to me to sort out, and once I do, I just know that much more flying awaits!

■ Special thanks to Joel and Zenith Aventura in Ager for a great trip and always providing me with a wing when needed abroad (www.zenithaventura.com) PAGE 15

IHPA

H T Lough Bray Dara Hogan SHOT

FUN&FLY

Dorin’s competing holiday 2014

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

In 2014 Dorin Borodescu decided to enter two compititions, the Polish & Lithuanian Open and Belgian Open both in Slovenia and running one after the other.

O

hhhh, memories now and as time settles the detail fades. But some things remain clear and I still smile as I picture myself flying above Krn with its majestic wall and so much snow.

It started with a hunger to fly somewhere new again. It had been 2 years since my last trip – way too long. I love the competition scene so I searched the FAI calendar and immediately 2 comps jumped out at me: the Polish & Lithuanian Open and the Belgian Open. Both in Slovenia, one after the other and just 15 km between them, perfect.

Next came the usual stuff: buy the tickets, pay the fee and arrange all the details. It proved to be a challenge to fit my camping gear and glider in a 20 kg bag but then I discovered the JakTogo1 and in the end I could have even taken a bit more. I put a message on our communication channels to see if anyone might want to join me as it would have been great to have some company and then I waited.

Finally, in what seemed like just a blink the wait was over – one moment I was on the ground in Ireland and the next I was thermalling in the air above Slovenia.

The Polish & Lithuanian Open was held at Tolmin, one of the most important sites in Slovenia. It was managed by Gašper Prevc (one of the world’s top pilots) and hosted at Camp Garbje which was equipped with all the facilities to making our stay comfortable. I arrived 2 days before the Polish&Lithuanian Open and the camp site was already full of tents with all the attendant excitement of a good forecast and the chance of having a great time. People were friendly and willing to share their knowledge and experience of the area and before I knew it, on a perfect day in June I was thermalling above Krn, a great big magical mountain that took my breath away. My first flight was cut short by a CB building in front of me so I turned round and happily flew back to the camp site. Before I knew it I had burned 50 km.

Next day was good and now, as I was getting to know the area a bit better, I decided to try one of the classical runs, all the way to Italy (Gemona) and back. As I was almost at PAGE 19

FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

Gemona on the ridge, a couple of gliders passed me like rockets and went out to the flats which confused me momentarily: was this the way to go, should I follow them? But I stuck with my route and only later I found out that they were pilots from British Open that was being held in Gemona. On my return leg I explored the area a bit further and jumped back few ridges. With almost 100 km under my belt I had a smile from ear to ear.

So after 2 days of free flying it was time for the competition to start: 137 pilots (75 of whom were in the sport class), all hungry as wolves and ready to go. Looking around I recognized some world cup pilots, even a few Red bull X Alps pilots. From the very beginning the competition gave me the impression of being very well organized with careful attention to every detail. And as bonus they had all the logistic from the world cup events (cars, live tracking, the retrieve coordinator).

Looking around I recognized some world cup pilots, even a few Red bull X Alps pilots.

The first task was 87 km with a complicated 7 points zig zag. Then the window opened and the competition was under way. The day was light and thermals were not too strong so it became a game of patience. I started the race with my spirits still high from the day before but soon I felt that something was not exactly right. I was thermalling fine (even though I was able to climb with the others I seemed to have to work harder for it) but once we went in transition I realized what was happening, my glider had served me well for almost 6 years but on the race it felt like an old PAGE 20

horse breathing hard and loosing height on the way. As first and foremost I had come to have fun the result wasn’t so important , but I still wanted to try my best. So I changed my strategy and decided to take some chances to try to even the field a bit. After the 5th point (about 50 km into the task) I took a different route to the main group - instead of heading back to mountains I followed a low ridge on the opposite side of the valley. If it paid off I was cutting 10 km from the trip but the gamble didn’t pay off as it was too light to stay up.

Talking with a local pilot after the flight he said the day was almost good enough for that ridge but just not quite, it needed a slightly better day but my logic was good. So although disappointed that I didn’t make goal I was happy that I tried to work the best of it.

Another pilot said lightheartedly that a 2 generations old glider is not really the wing for a competition. My reply was simple: I came more for the competition than for the competing, I want to learn and this is a great environment for that.

First day of the 137 pilots only 27 made the goal.

Next day the routine started to settle and the task was 86 km, again with 7 turn points. It was another light day and once more patience was required, with some pilots being in the air for 7 hours. I landed 15km short of goal but if felt good and in the end 81 pilots made it over the line.

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

Day 3 the task is 88 km with 8 turnpoints , quite an interesting task. Just before the start we heard a boom above launch, a pilot had just thrown the reserve. This task was really fast with the first pilots reaching goal after only 2h 30min. 72 pilots made it in but again I fell short... this wasn’t too good for my “granny glider “ and after 65 km it ran out of breath and we had to “ land and rest”.

The day was good, a bit too good as around 30 pilots forgot that the altitude limit was 2800m and as result most of the best pilots were awarded 0 points (basically the top gaggle went too high following each other). That upset the results big time leaving the comp open to possibilities.

Day 4 was a 79 km task and a good day, still not so strong but more consistent.

Next came the prize giving and though some voices were raised that there were another 2 days and it would be better to wait, it was a good call as the weather just got worse. Finally we all shook hands, sharing smiles and dreaming already about when we could meet to fly together again. Strangers yesterday, friends today, connected by a common feeling of being up there as a bird and doing something that dreams are made of. And of course we are all dreamers, I feel lucky that sometimes I can actually get to live my dreams.

he day was good, a bit too good as around 30 pilots forgot that the altitude limit was 2800m

But as is often the case, the day also brought more instability and as a result the task was stopped after 3h 40 min with reports coming back of rain to the West.

At the time the task was stopped I was on final glide to goal having left the mountain and flying high into the valley with less than 10km to go. It was my best task of the competition so far and when the task was stopped 103 of the 137 pilots had already made the goal line and the organizers said if they hadn’t stopped the task it would have been more like 120 pilots in goal, such was the level of

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

competition. As it turned out this was to be the last task as the weather changed. We tried a more Easterly site the next day to try to avoid the storm front but it didn’t work as the storm came early and heavy.

I had a great time flying with so much fun and a steep learning curve and I’d like to say a huge thank you to The Polish & Lithuanian Competition organizers and the retrieve crew from the world cup that came with all the logistics from the British Open, cars, live tracking, coordinator for retrieve.

After that wasn’t so good. The Belgian Open was marred by the bad weather and 2 very small tasks were run for the sake of having some airtime and to validate the comp.

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FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

However we did manage some lovely free flying in nearby Italy and had a great time but as the regulations stipulate that the contest has to be in the country where it is organized we couldn’t have a task there. Pity as the weather was good. Who knows, a proposal to change this rule might well result after this competition.

We also did some hiking , kayaking and sight-seeing so overall it was a great trip. Looking back today I still remember thermalling above Krn with its breath taking scenery.

On a final note next year 4-11 July is the Gin Wide Open, one of the most popular competitions for regular pilots that want to learn

PAGE 22

XC. There are seminars and lots of learning stuff , Fergal O’Mahony could tell us more about it as he was at the one this year. It will be held in the same spot in Slovenia and for sure I’m going. If you are interested in joining be aware that registration will be open at 25th December 2014 , 13:00 GMT and the list probably will fill in hours (I’ve set my alarm for it!). I hope to see you there. ■ Fly high in LIFE… in Heart!

Dorin Borodescu IHPA Paragliding Competition Officer

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

Marvelous Montellano

Gilbert Glennon tells about one of the Munster Kestrel’s favourite sites, Montellano in the Algodonales circuit

O

ne of the great XC sites on the Algodonales circuit is Montellano. It Is a small town about 32km from Algodonales just off the main Seville road the A375. The town itself is mainly an agricultural centre.

North east of the town at GPS co-ords 37d 0.333N 5d 32.835 W is the take off. This is accessed through narrow unmade dusty roads used only by farmers and us flyers.

The take off is small and would be crowded by 30 pilots. The orientation of the site is North East and only North East.

The countryside around Montellano is generally flat all the way back to Seville to the North west. 19km North of Montellano is the American air base at Moron de la Frontera. The base is in controlled air space. As the site is facing North East the main direction of flight is in a South Westerly direction, generally flying

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

over the town of Villamartin and then on towards the town of Arcos de la Frontera, and then on to the coast if you have the luck and the skills.

Big XC flights have been done from Montellano, the longest one I am aware of is about 130km. Montellano to Matalascanes.

To the South of Montellano lies Puerto Serrano and further South lies the town of Prado del Rey. I once did a very enjoyable short XC from Montellano to Prado del Rey, passing over Puerto Serrano on the way.

There is a disused railway from Puerto Serrano to Olvera. The line was abandoned before the rails were even laid down. It is now used as a walking and cycling track. Bikes can be hired on non flying days.

There are excellent restaurants at Coripe station and Olvera station.

The one at Olvera is exceptional.

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FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

The tower at Montellano

The lower take off at Montellano On non flying days the towns of Montellano, El Coronil, Moron de la Frontera and Seville are well worth a visit.

On a good day the flying at Montellano will not be disappointing, with good thermals rising everywhere. On medium to poor days there is some ridge soaring on the small ridge to the right and left of the take off area. This is small and can get very congested on a busy day.

Montellano is a favourite spot for flying schools but they usually favour the lower take off on account of it being a bit easier. The upper take off can be a handful on strong wind days.

I have seen many a good pilot being blown away there.

I hope you will visit Montellano when next in that area and hope you get as much enjoyment as I have had there over my many visits to the site. Have a retrieve lined up; it might be a long day. â–

Boots over Tower Montellano

High over Montellano PAGE 24

A local resident IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

Montellano Andalusia, Spain PARAGLIDING EARTH CLICK HERE GPS COORDINATES: Take off: 37째0'27" (37.0077)N; 5째32'36" (5.5434)W Landing:

37째0'36" (37.0102)N; 5째32'29" (5.5416)W

ELEVATION:

Take off:

387 m.

Landing:

313 m.

Montellano

Top takeoff at Montellano IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

PAGE 25

IHPA

H T Áger, Spain Rafal Obora SHOT

Samba Soaring!

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

While visiting Brazil in August Paul Hogan dragged his glider along in the hopes of some airtime and was rewarded with some wonderful flights.

T

his summer marked my fourth season as a paragliding pilot. After a brilliant couple of weeks flying in Ager last summer, I was keen to visit somewhere new for some flying this year. After some negotiating with the home office, the decision was pretty quick. Given that my girlfriend, Jordana, is Brazilian, destination – Brazil!

Jordana and I arrived into Rio de Janeiro on the 26th of August, glider in tow. I had hoped to fly from Rampa da Pedra Bonita – the world renowned take-off which overlooks the beaches and favelas of Rio. Unfortunately, it rained for the four days that we were there. Maybe next time.

Brazil is a huge nation, of continental magnitude. Having never visited Brazil before, I was astonished to see such a wide geographical diversity. On the 29th of August, we arrived in Jordana’s home state of Rio Grande do Sul. Far from the tropical beeches of Rio de Janeiro, the southern state is very European in its appearance. With a climate and landscape similar to that of Italy, it is approximately the size of Ireland, but that is where the similarities end.

I was aware that August is the end of Brazil’s winter and not the ideal time to fly, but I was hopeful that I would bring some Irish luck to the equation.

My patience was tested, with the first twelve days a mixture of torrential rain and gale force winds howling in from the Atlantic. However, I remained confident and used it as an opportunity to research and network with local pilots (and earn brownie points with herself!). Eventually, my patience was repaid.

On a perfect mid-week morning, the sun rose into a cloudless sky and the forecast came good. My first flying would be at Nova Petropolis, a small Germanic town near the city of Caxias do Sul. The local flying site, known as Ninho das Aguias (the eagles nest), overlooks the town at an altitude of 710m. The local club maintains a nice dirt road all the way to take off, where they also run a bar, tuck shop and churrascaria (barbeque shop). On arrival, the local pilots were more than helpful, walking me through the black spots and house thermals. The site is a cross country hub, allowing XC in all directions during the summer months. From the take-off area with short soft grass to the “pista de dança” or dance floor thermals – I was immediately clear on why Brazil is somewhat of a Mecca for free flight enthusiasts.

Over the course of the day, I made a number of local thermalling flights, reaching 2500m on a number of occasions with relative ease. After landing at the clubs landing site, I was treated to churrasco and Polar, their local brew.

The globally renowned Brazilian friendliness was incredible – the local pilots took great enjoyment from having a tourist pilot in their company, spending time pointing out the best flying sites in the region.

Over the following three weeks, I had five more flyable days, visiting a number of sites in the region – Morro do Diabo, Sapiranga and Feliz. Days ranged from familiar ridge soaring conditions to evening restitution, but all were equally enjoyable. While I may not have been in the more renowned paragliding regions of South America, I have come away from my time in the South of Brazil with many enjoyable memories, new friends and an appetite to further my flying skills and return, one day to set a personal XC record! ■

PAGE 29

IHPA PILOT What’s Your Q&A Bump Tolerance*...

In each issue of FreeFlight we invite a IHPA Pilot to answer some questions about themselves and their flying and this issue Ken Hickey does us the honors.

Bump Tolerance: An acquired ability to fly in and withstand rough thermic air.

*

spectacular French alps. Getting a very low save right above the 2013 tour de France, wow they cycle so fast.

How long have you been flying?

I’ve been flying now for 14 years, starting in late summer 2000 with the Mt. Leinster hang gliding club run by Ger Doherty and Shane O’Reilly.

Not to forget being with our fellow pilots who make this the great sport that it is.

After the foot and mouth out break in early 2001, my flying didn’t really get going until late 2001.

What is your worse memory?

Our sport gives so much, but sometimes can be so unforgiving. The worse memories for me, and I’m sure the same holds through for all of us, are the times when our friends are hurt or lost when things go wrong.

What made you decide to take up flying?

Like many, my interest in flying started at a young age. Maybe it was living near to Casement Aerodrome and at the foot of the Dublin mountains, or my Grandparents home close to Clonbullouge parachuting club.

My preference for flying was always foot launched free flying, nothing beats running off a hill, soaring above the mountains, followed by landing in a farmers field. also the customary debriefing in a local pub after a day's soaring.

What is your best memory?

Like many free flyers, there are several, my first high flight in Achill or flying Kiliney Hill, with its occasional view of Wales.

Climbing in a super smooth +10m/s thermal right after take-off at Montange de Chabre right up to cloud base at 3500m is certainly a flight to remember.

Climbing in a late evening thermal up to 3500m above La Tournette with views across the snowy alps towards Mt. Blanc is another on or flying the Commeraghs, always a nice place to fly.

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What’s your current glider?

Name:

Ken Hickey

Type of Pilot:

Hang Gliding

Rating:

PP3

Started Flying: Late Summer 2000

The iconic Swift hang glider for the last two years.

Have you experienced any other types of Flying?

Airtime:

500+ hours

I've been flying sailplanes a little for the last two years - great for the windy days and wave flying.

Glider:

Swift Light

What is your favourite Irish flying site?

Harness:

Moyes Matrix

The super flying at Monte Cucco, such a great place to fly.

The Commeraghs, after a loooong climb to take-off, work hard, scratch over the forest, then zoom up along the cliff face, then your rewarded with one of Ireland’s best soaring sites.

Last year’s XC across the south east, landing at my sisters holiday home near Carnsore Point.

What’s your bump tolerance?

One of my best ever flights, was last years XC tour with Jac Bott flying around the

Cb’s aren’t so much of a problem with the Swift, but respect still required.

Flying with crazy pilots, no landing options, and tricky take-offs.

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

FlyGEAR

Uli Burger decided he needed a new flight instrument but couldn’t afford a top end device and tells us by combining a Nexus 7, a bluetooth vario and free software he had the next best thing at a fraction of the price.

T

his year I was in need of new flight instruments and a bit short of money so the usual expensive flight devices were not an option.

My criteria was a flight instrument that has: • GPS for the ground speed, wind speed and wind direction • a sensitive and fully adjustable vario • altimeter with some adjusting • a compass rose • a large and bright screen • a good battery life • software that allows me to maintain and log my flights and is graphically outstanding.

I was experimenting with android phones and various different devices when I came across a very interesting combination of a 7-inch tablet and a vario that’s connected via bluetooth.

After following the treads of many techminded pilots experimenting with various new budget devices I decided I wanted something easier to build or a plug and go IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

device. I started to do some research into mini tablets and looked into the specs of some of the high end budget tablets that are available.

I was experimenting with android phones and various different devices when I came across a very interesting combination of a 7-inch tablet and a vario that’s connected via bluetooth.

I was very interested in the Google Nexus 7 which has a built in GPS, a very bright and tough screen, 10 hour battery life running the highly anticipated Kit Kat 4.4.4 on

board and Android Lollipop. The cost was less then €200 and running software such as XC Soar or Flyme my goal became a reality.

What I needed was a vario that would work with any android device and the Blue Fly Vario is perfect (www.blueflyvario.com). It’s built from scratch by an Australian developer and relatively inexpensive, costing less then €60 Euros.

Since I purchased my vario BlueFly have brought out a newer version.

This vario is fully customisable and adjustable when downloading an Android app by Alistair Dickie. The android app is free of charge and can be used to display and modify quickly the entire vario. It connects via bluetooth and is the size of a match box. Battery life is approx 20 hours and easy to connect up with the Nexus 7 via Bluetooth.

The delivery of the vario will usually take 2 weeks after ordering. Assembly is required but after I received mine I had it assembled within minutes, it was that easy.

PAGE 31

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

I downloaded XC Soar first and test flew it for a while but in the end I decided on Flyme. I highly recommend this software as it gives all the display options and what’s more it’s free. Download it straight from their website and set the Nexus 7 settings to download apps from outside the play store.

Having sorted the Instruments, I ran intro problems attaching the devices to my harness but luckily Gabor B had the solution. He makes everything from Tshirts to Aluminium frames to hang and adjust your harnesses and has designed a 7inch tablet pocket. It’s made out of a neoprene material along with a sun visor thats excellent when flying in sunshine. It has a big zip and velcro on the reverse side and is built to last and can protect the tablet from a good deal of punishment.

After taking my new flight devices to the sky I was amazed how well the two devices worked together and also with their accuracy. The screen is extremely big, no reading glasses required, and has crisp and beautiful colours.

For less then €300 I had a top end device with minimal time spent assembling the kit. The thermal finder is a great function that is displaying thermal bubbles in telephone cord graphics. Glide ratio graphics etc.

The kit has all the little programs any high end device would use to direct and help pilots while flying. The thermal finder is a great little program that helps you stay inside the thermal and after flying, the flight is automatically recorded and saved in the selected file. Downloading on Leonardo is done in a few seconds and it is

also possible to see the flight on Google Earth.

I highly recommend the combination of these two devises to any pilot out there, tech-minded or not, It’s easy to set up and very easy to use.

What I really like is the huge screen and its visibility. The software is a must have. XC Soar is a slightly fiddlier program to set up and maintain and also I didn't like that it was not possible to change the plane symbol on the screen and that I was always auto connected to any nearby airport While flying in Lackan it kept telling me that I needed to climb further to reach Dublin airport!

XC soar has of course nice features that are not to be forgotten but the overall winner was Flyme. ■

Price Comparison Uli’s Kit Nexus 7 BlueFly Vario Flyme Software Cover Total

PAGE 32

Cover

€818 €30

Total

€848

Naviter Oudie 3X €200 €60 FREE €30 €290

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

and

Mario Jachimowicz and Rafal Obora took their Hike and Fly experience one step further and travelled to Spain in September for nine days of wonderful flying.

o where to next I asked? “The Alps of course, in June for 1 week”. This is how Rafal Obora ended a previous article on Hike & Fly in Ireland (and Wales) so naturally I kept an eye on the forum for news of the ‘where next’. As it turned out it was not the Alps in June but Spain in September and on Aug 29th Mario Jachimowicz, Rafal Obora, Rafal Vega and Franek Baron flew to Gerona and then on by car to Ager to spend 9 days of Hike & Fly in Spain.

S

Ireland and also a 3 day trip to Wales in the Springtime but this was going to be a big step up and we were quite excited by the idea. But, as is often the case, the weather Gods had other plans: conditions made XC unlikely with the wind backing from Southerly at 1500m to Northerly at 2000m. Given the prospect of heading over the back into rough conditions and a head wind we decided instead to concentrate on flying to the south, returning each evening to pack up and move camp to a new location.

Mario and Rafal Obora kindly sent me a description of their trip which I have put together below. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Each night we rough camped in a different spot, intentionally avoiding campsites and hostels.

Ager is an amazing place with stunning scenery: crystal clear blue lakes and great rock walls and at night, out in the open away from the lights of town, the starscapes were just spectacular.

We woke each morning to a fresh brew of coffee, took turns to cook breakfast and used our camel backs as a makeshift shower. In between we just concentrated on flying. It was an amazing experience and we all had a lot of fun.

Graced with 7 flyable days in a row we racked up a good few 50+km FAI flat triangles between us to boot. And still there was more to come.

We arrived in Ager at 3am to pitch tent and sleep for a few hours. This was the first time in Ager for all of us except Franek but even for him this trip was going to be different. The initial plan was to spend the week hiking & flying –XC during the day and rough camp where we land at night. We would carry only the essentials with us and all had very light equipment – for example my tent, sleeping bag and mat came to less than 2kg. We had done some hike & fly trips together before: in

PAGE 34

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

With 2 days left before our return flight we decided to drive to Piedrahita. On the way we arranged a retrieve driver - Ester, a lady we had met on our last trip to Piedrahita in 2011 – so when we arrived in Piedrahita we were free to concentrate once more on just flying. The first day was a beautiful blue sky and we found quite a few pilots waiting on Pena Negra launch, all with the same plan. But a strong west wind forced many to an early landing after only 20 – 40km. The next day the weather was more promising. We took off around 1pm and flew East in a gaggle with 20 or so other pilots. The first 40km were tricky but on approaching Avila cloud base rose to 3500m and conditions became easier and we all ended up with an

amazing flight and personal bests: Rafal Obora flew 120km to Segovia, Rafal Vega 106km and landed near Madrid, Mario made it the 65km to Avila and Franek got 30km.

All that was left was the drive to Reus and the flight back to Dublin.

All in all we flew 9 days out of 9 with an average of 30h airtime each, camping out each night in some beautiful locations and taking our experiment of ‘hike and fly’ once step further. Without a doubt it was one of the best flying holidays we have ever had and was a great way to end the 2014 flying season.

And 2015 is just around the corner. ■

IHPA

H T Lough Bray Dara Hogan SHOT

IHPA

H T Maulin, Co. Wicklow Pearse Cafferky SHOT

Irish 100km 2014 XC Challenge Win a new U-Turn Rescue System by becoming the first IHPA member to fly 100km in Ireland!

The Irish 100 U-TURNs XC Challenge is a new initiative, founded to encourage more pilots to improve their flying skills in Ireland – we Challenge you to fly further!

By becoming the first IHPA paraglider pilot to log a 100km flight on one of the International XC contest websites (XContest, Leonardo) you will win a U-Turn new rescue System.

The challenge is sponsored and monitored by U-Turn.

Have fun going XC!

For further details contact Dorin at: borodescud@gmail.com PAGE 38

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

Why Bulgaria?

Gavin and Lucy Jillings tell us why Bulgaria is the place to consider when planning your next paragliding adventure.

W

hy Bulgaria? That is the question we are asked by the locals when they find out we are foreigners that have come to settle in their country.

In May 2014 we finally arrived at our new home in a village near Sopot in the Rose Valley. We had decided to go against the immigration tide and try our luck in the East.

The topography here is such that even moderately strong north winds are cancelled out by the thermic flow from the valley floor up the sunny slopes creating a line of convergence along the top of the ridge for us to fly along. Our first season has been amazing, we have made lots of new friends and really got to know the area (we’ve been visiting the valley for 7 years but living here is different).

Bulgaria is where East meets West and where the mediaeval meets the modern

The answer to their question is very easy - the mountains. We sit in the middle of a southerly facing ridge averaging 2000m in height in a sheltered, sunny valley with a chairlift to the top. As is so often the case, many of the locals don’t even notice the mountains in the background of their lives, it’s amazing how even such splendour can become mediocre over time. We found the same when living in Belfast, it’s only on return visits home that we actually notice the Belfast Hills!

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

Bulgaria is where East meets West and where the mediaeval meets the modern.

Since humanity appeared in Europe, Bulgaria has been a crossroads of cultures and civilisations. Horses and donkeys are still widely used in agriculture although the modern, GPS controlled combine harvesters are becoming popular too. The land is wide open with few fences and landings are normally greeted by inquisitive, smiling locals. We have slow roads and fast internet (much faster than at home), even a webcam on take-off for a live view of the windsock. Road tax is very cheap, PAGE 39

FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

but we make up the difference in new shock absorbers. Actually the main highways are modern and well maintained but the village roads are ‘works in progress’, all part of the charm.

So our first summer season has ended, it’s been great fun, hard work, a real life changer. Keep an eye on this magazine for updates from the valley!

■

It’s time for a Bulgarian paragliding adventure!

The Rose Valley, on the Southern Slopes of the Stara Planina Mountain Range offers some excellent locations for XC flying.

And with Rose Valley Lodge you can book a week of excellent flying, excellent accommodation and excellent cuisine.

For further details visit:

www.rosevalleylodge.net

FlySAFE

John Welch, CFI Flight Culture, outlines a number of factors we need to be aware of before attempting to go costal soaring.

T

here are a number of factors we need to be aware of before costal soaring and although it is fairly straightforward, we still need to exercise caution.

Because the wind is coming straight off of the sea, there is no thermic element: the air is smooth and there is little or no gusting.

Proper planning will allow us to have a fantastic time without unnecessary stress.

Before flying we need to make a really thorough weather assessment

As is the case any time we go flying first make a weather and site assessment - apart from all the usual considerations one obvious factor in coastal soaring is the presence of the sea and the need to avoid landing in the water at all costs. So make sure you have a good idea of how conditions may change over the course of the day and whether the wind will increase/decrease or change direction. Take a look at a map to see how the coast line twists and turns along your route as this will have a significant effect on the lift band.

Most importantly know where the bottom landing options are …

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

and whether they are tide dependant!!!. Boating around in the silky smooth air coming off the sea, it’s easy to become complacent. Of course this is something we should avoid anytime we are flying but with coastal soaring in particular we are never very high above the sea and there can be very little time to react should things not go according to plan.

Prevailing Winds – Sea and Land Breezes

In this area of Europe we aren’t far enough south to be in a high pressure cell, instead we do get changeable weather. In the late Spring, Summer and Autumn months the prevailing winds tend to be fairly light although localized effects can contribute to and strengthen this. Generally, flying stops when the wind is above 18 mph. Although we might be able to fly in higher wind speeds, should they increase still further, we risk being blown back.

While in the air, if conditions strengthen we should fly further out in front of the dune and/or move to a less steep section.

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FREEFLIGHT WINTER 2014

The Sea Breeze Understanding the mechanism of the Sea Breeze is important to soaring on costal sites safely. Anticipating its arrival and understanding what this will mean, allows you to make plans to accommodate it.

To begin our understanding of the sea breeze we need to consider what is happening inland. During the course of the day the sun causes the ground to heat up. If there is direct sunlight, different areas will heat up at different rates and thermals will start to rise.

As a result of the thermic action, the area near the ground will have (relatively) low pressure. The sea, on the other hand, warms much more slowly and the air in contact with it remains cooler.

FREEFLIGHT SUMMER 2013

On light wind days this cool sea air is drawn into the low pressure zone over land and an on-shore flow occurs. This flow is known as a Sea Breeze and usually is strongest in the mid to late afternoon when the maximum thermal activity is occurring inland. The most active sea breeze fronts are caused when there is a light prevailing off-shore wind and is often (not always) marked by a line of cumulus clouds which sometimes have wisps or curtains hanging from them.

be as little as 1°C • A strong sea breeze front could move up to 50 kilometers inland Hazards and Advice Be careful of the wind dropping and not being able to make it to a safe landing site – landing in the sea is never an option.

Empirical Rules of Thumb for Sea Breeze Convergence

If soaring a sea breeze front, stay on the land side of the front … and under the higher base cloud.

These guidelines are based on experience and have been known for many years. The science behind them is obscure, but the rules work!

Keep an eye on the sea in the distance for the formation of white caps – this will give some advance warning of the wing picking up.

• Off-shore wind component less than 10 knots

Coastal fog and low cloud can come in very suddenly - cliff soaring can be full of hazards!

• Depth of convection (including any cloud tops) between 3,500 and 10,000 feet. This means that hot, blue days are unlikely to get sea breezes except puffs of air very close to the beaches • Land must be warmer than sea but the difference amazingly can

IRISH HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING ASSOCIATION

Inland movement of the front is not a steady progress but often in a series of jumps. Don't get trapped on the wrong side! ■ John Welch, CFI Flight Culture, www.flightculture.co.uk

PAGE 43

IHPA

H T Agér, Spain Mario Jachimowicz SHOT

IHPA NEWS

2014 SPONSORS IHPA IHPA P would like to thank our many sponsors. Apart from the wonderful prizes for our 2014 AAGM, we have also received merchandise from a number of other manufacturers and what’s more, we have secured discounts on certain items of equipment. m FFinally together with Up and U-Turn we are continuing our 2 amazing XC Challenges for 2014.

A All available to IHPA members only. So read on...

Merchandise Gifts Good news for those of you who might be looking for some new equipment.

Thanks to the efforts of our Competition Officer Dorin Borodescu, we have managed to secure some great items from the following:

World Leaders in the Design and Manufacture of Paragliders, Harnesses, Parachute Reserve Systems, Power Wings and Accessories for the Pilot

Flying Holiday Discount

Allez Up

HIC:BJGIHC> I=<>A; LARAGNE, FRANCE 15% Discount to IHPA Pilotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Group Bookings Allez Up is run by Dave and Rachel who have a long track record of running flying holidays in the area. They know how to get you into the air and grade the trip to your flying limits.

The accommodation itself is comfortable and clean and able to accommodate up to 12 easily. The surroundings are calm and relaxing and included a pool to ease the aches after a day flying. The views from the veranda included a fantastic old castle, Le Mison. Lovely to sit out with a cool drink, chat about the days flying and watch the shadows flicker across the castle as the sun set.

Nearby sites were easy access and included the locally famous Le Chabre, Aspres and other regulars like Bergies, Buc and Sederon. www.allez-up.com

For further details contact Dorin Borodescu at: borodescud@gmail.com

A I R B O R N E

S E N S AT I O N S

The 150km 20 2 14 XC X Ch C allllenge Win an UP Harness of your choice* by becoming the first person to fly 150km** in Ireland The Irish UP XC Challenge is a new initiative, founded to encourage more pilots to fly further in Ireland - the potential is there, now we just need the pilots to step up to the task!

By becoming the first IHPA paraglider pilot to log a 150km+** flight on one of the International XC contest websites (XContest, Leonardo) you will win a UP harness of your own choice*. The challenge is sponsored by UP International (www.up-paragliders.com) in conjunction with UP UK/Green Dragons, and monitored by Green Dragons. (www.greendragons.co.uk) Have fun going XC! *Harness must be from the UP range current at the time of flight completion, and in stock at the UP HQ in Germany. **With the Irish XC rules this amounts to 150km on A and B wings, 165km on C wings, and 180km on D wings. No limitations in regards to brand.

For further details contact Dorin Borodescu at: borodescud@gmail.com

Flying in Umbria The heart of Italy.

Flytaly is a dedicated paragliding company based in the beautiful mountains of Umbria in central Italy. A stunning 18th century manor house will be your home for the duration of your trip and they provide all transport so there is no need for the added cost of a hire car.

Every effort is made to ensure that you get the most airtime out of your holiday and each day ends with a 4-course meal, prepared by talented chefs using the finest locally sourced ingredients.

Accommodation and catering included in your stay â&#x20AC;˘ Family holidays for flyers and non-flyers alike