USHGA Paragliding Vol4/Iss5 1993

Thirty-five years of flying , and I know that love's a process , not instant delight between a pilot and a flying machine. Yet the first time I pulled up my AT-125 and stepped into the air ... it was a mighty quick process.

From that moment my rainbow Wills has turned out to be more stable, more straightforward forgiving high-quality dependable smooth-flying bulletproof than I dared hope. Hurray to everyone at Wills Wing for building such lovely nylon sorcery, and for charming old dreams of flight into my here and now!

Richard Bach Author, Pilot As the longest continuously practicing holder of an instructor card in foot launched flight, I can say that the most important criteria in selecting a paraglider are safety , quality and service. In my nineteen years of experience , there is one company with an unmatched track record in each of the above : Wills Wing. Before you spend good money on anything else, give me a call.

Ken deRussy Hang Glider & Paraglider Emporium (805) 965 3733 USHGA I APA Instructor 2000 Hrs Hang Gliding - 1500 Flights Paragliding My involvement with the APA over the past six years has given me ample opportunity to fly most paragliders on the market today. Much of my time is spent on instruction and development of new safety and training techniques. Wills Wing paragliders are our top selling canopies; they are stable and reliable , and lend confidence to the new pilot. They provide incredible performance when used with the speed system. Wills Wing has led the industry in their involvement in safety and training and in customer service .

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I fly a Wills Wing because I demand the best of myself and of my gear. No other company offers that confidence inspiring feeling. The quality is unsurpassed. It has been said that "you can't buy happiness ," but you can buy a Wills Wing .

Andy Whitehill Chandelle San Francisco 1300 hours Hang Gliding - 200 Hours Paragliding USHGA Paragliding Instructor Thanks Wills Wing for designing a paraglider that gave me the performance and the confidence to safely fly 88 miles and break the United States Open Distance paragliding record.

Ted Boyse L.A. Paragliding 2900 hours Hang Gliding - 210 hours Paragliding I've come to the conclusion that I have been spoiled by my Wills Wing AT 123. All the other canopies I have flown since have disappointed me ; none has given me the feeling of confidence and security in soaring flight or canopy control maneuvers .

Rob McKenzie High Adventure Paragliding & Hang Gliding 2900 hours Hang Gliding - 300 hours Paragliding

Photo by Linda Meier

If you had over 100 years and multiple thousands of hours of flying experience...

Which Pa rag Iider Would You Choose?

LU 500 Blueridge Ave. • Orange •CA •92665 Phone (714) 998-6359 • FAX (714) 998-0647

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features

Vol. 4 #5

3 FAA Airspace Reclassification by; Alan Chuculate 10 VOX Modifactions Reprinted from Skywings 12 World Meet at Verbier By; Bob Schick 14 Canadian Championships by; Sean Dougherty 22

U.S. Nationals at Aspen

27 Winch Towing by; Gary Cook(Skywings) Sharelle Rogers, Aspen CO prepares to launch

Published Six Times Per Year Publisher and Editor - Fred Stockwell Assistant Editor - Claudia Stockwell Art Director - Fred Stockwell Associate Designer - Jeremy Wright

Overseas Correspondents

Departn1ents

Urs Haari - Switzerland Phillipe Renaudin - France Willi Muller - Canada Ian Currer - Great Britain Rob Whittall - Germany

U.S. Correspondents Ken Baier - San Diego Bob Schick - At Large

Paragliding - the Magazine Editorial, Subscription, and Advertising Information: P.O. Box 477 Riverton, Utah 84065 Phone: (801) 254-7455 Fax: (801) 254-7701 Subscription Rate for the USA: $26.00 Canada and Mexico: $32.00 Europe: $40.00 Other overseas: $44.00 (postage included)

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Flight Lines

15

News & Noteworthy

20

U.S. Paragliding Clubs

30

USHGANews

40

Paragliding Schools

43

Classified Ads

Vol. 4 #5

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NEXT DEADLINE: Oct.25 for Vol.4 # 6

Paragliding the Magazine is published for members of the paragliding community as well as other interested parties. It is the official publication for the United States Hang Glidng Association (USHGA) news for paragliding. Contributions are welcome however, Paragliding, the Magazine reserves the right to edit any contributions. Further, the magazine reserves the right to edit any advertising which may be deemed objectionable or damaging to publication by the staff of the association. The magazine and the association do not assume any responsibility for the contents of any published articles, advertising or for the opinions of its contributors.

Anyone is invited to contribute articles, photos and illustrations concerning paragliding activities. If the material is to be returned a stamped self addressed return envelope must be enclosed. If you wish us to keep the material on file please send duplicates. Notification must be made of submission to other paragliding publications. Absolutely no articles, advertising, photos or other published materials of the magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the express written permission of the publisher. @ Copyright 1993 PARAGLIDING PUBLICATIONS INC. All rights reserved.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Paragliding, the Magazine PO Box 477, Riverton, UT 84065.

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 1

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PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

FAA AIRSPACE RECLASSIFICATION

By Alan Chuculate

Do you fly cross country? Are you confused by the acronyms TCA .

ARSA , CZ, etc? Would you be more inclined to learn and respect special use airspace if it was simplified?

Would you like to know how to better read an aircraft sectional navigation chart? If you answered yes to any of these questions then this article is for you .

The FAA has reclassified the airspace over the US to become compatible with international letter designations. The former abbreviations are still in use but they are now also grouped and designated by a single letter, so now it's as easy as A, B, C. The airspace areas affected are listed in the table below with the new designations . Note that there will be no Class F airspace in the US. Class Former Airspace Equivalent

A B C D

E

F

G

Positive Control Area (PCA) Terminal Control Area (TCA) Airport Radar Service Area (ARSA) Airport Traffic Area (ATA) Control Zone (CZ) with a aperating control tower (Upper limits 2500' AGL).

Controlled Airspace(CA) Control Zone (CZ) without a operating control tower Not applicable in the U. S. Uncontrolled Airspace (UA)

In order to fly through some of these areas , prior authorization is required from the controlling agency (usually the Air Traffic Control facility (ATC) in the local control tower or at some military base). The exception would be for some special locations or events such as the Sandia Classic meet in Albuquerque where a letter of agreement has been written for approval. For this event the floor of Class A airspace is temporarily lifted to some higher altitude to facilitate greater cross country potential. This was made possible in part through the efforts of USHGA Region 4 director Glen Nicolet. Ultralights can fly in all Class E and Class G airspace

without prior permission .

There are two other groups of special use airspace . The first group includes blocks of airspace within any class. These are: a Prohibited Area (PA), a restricted area (RA) and temporary areas designated by a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for special flight operations and government officials.

The second group includes: An Alert Area (AA) , a Military Operating Area (MOA) , a Military Training Route (MTR), a Terminal Radar Service Area(TRSA) , a Victor Airwave (VA), and a Warning Area (WA). While legally we can enter and transit these areas , they're not what you would describe as user friendly airspace. At the very least they tend to to be congested with powered aircraft traffic. At worst , these are high speed military fighters whose wake can waste you before you realize they were even approaching .

We have actually gained more access to airspace because of this airspace reclassification . There are three significant operational changes to concern yourself with as an ultralight glider pilot. You now can legally pass over AT As (Airport Traffic Area , Class D Airspace) and blue CZs (Control Zone , Class D airspace) at lower altitudes, or through a magenta CZ (Class E airspace). The ATA ceiling has been reduced from 3000' AGL to 2500' AGL (rounded off to the nearest hundreds of feet MSL). CZs

with operating control towers have their ceilings reduced from 14500' MSL to the altitude depicted within the CZ. CZ's without operating control towers have no ceiling depicted and are available for our use.

There are three minor changes in airspace depictions, TRSAs (Terminal Radar Service Area) have been changed from solid magenta lines to solid black lines , and ARSA (Airport Radar Service Area, Class C airspace) have changed from dashed magenta lines to solid magenta lines.

The other difference in airspace depiction is that the 1200' AGL floor for controlled airspace (CA, Class E airspace is not depicted when it is adjacent to CA with a 700' AGL floor (shaded magenta line) , but does exist there , It is only depicted when CA begins at 1200' AGL and is adjacent to uncontrolled airspace (UA, Class G airspace) , in which case it is depicted with a shaded blue line.

The accompanying information notice which depicts the changes, is available with new sectional charts, and you can obtain additional details free from your local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or Flight Service Station (FSS). Ask for the safety bulletin entitled" The ABC's of Airspace Reclassification" . They also have a brochure and a pocket reference card available. This airspace reclassification began on October 15th, 1992 and will be fully in

U.S. Airspace Classes at a Glance

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1:ffective September 16 . i 993

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PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE3

PARGUDING, THE MAGAZINE

place on September 16, 1993.

Its important to know your way around the neighborhood, in our case, the airspace, and to be able to relate to the neighbors, other pilots, particularly those in general aviation and to FAA officials. Even if you don't memorize all these abbreviations it's good press for our sport if every pilot knew where we can and cannot fly legally. So don't get bogged down by the foreign language, just go uver your local sectional chart with this article sometime when your groundbound and see if you stay legal and still get quality airtime.

CCA Continental Control Area, now included in Class E airspace, including all airspace above 14,500' MSL up to PCA, no PAR; Class A, PCA, Class B, TCA, Class C, ARSA, Class D, ATA and CZ with an operating control tower. Class E, CA, and CZ without an operating control tower Class F not applicable in the US Class G, UA.

AA Alert Area, danger present, depicted by parallel blue hash marks and the letter "A" or the word "Alert", no PAR (prior Authorization Required);

CZ Control zone, with an operating control tower is now designated as Class D airspace and is depicted by a blue segmented line, extending from the surface to the vertical limit noted in hundreds of feet AMSL in the contained box, PAR; any magenta segmented line adjoining the CZ is a Class E airspace arrival extension with no PAR: a CZ without an operating control tower is now designated as Class E airspace with no vertical limit designation and is depicted by a magenta segmented line, no PAR;

AGL Above Ground Level, altitude above the local terrain;

FL Flight Level: altitude in hundreds of feet;

AMSL Above Mean Sea Level, international designation identical to MSL.

MOA Military Operating Area, high speed jet traffic area, depicted by Parallel magenta hash marks, depicted with a name along the sectional charts border with the hours of operation, effective altitudes and controlling agency, no PAR;

AIRSPACE DESIGNATIONS AND RELATED ABBREVIATIONS

ARSA Airport Radar Service area, now known as Class C surface, bordered by a solid magenta line, PAR; any magenta segmented line adjoining the ARSA is a Class E airspace arrival extension with no PAR; ATA Airport traffic area, now designated as Class D airspace, airport with an operating control tower, denoted only by a blue airport symbol, extends In a 5 mile radius, from the surface to 2,500' AGL, PAR; ATC Air Traffic Control, The division of the FAA that has the authority for the supervision of both commercial and general aviation traffic in most areas.

CA Controlled Airspace, now designated as Class E airspace, increases cloud clearance and visibility minimums, begins at 700' AGL when depicted with a shaded magenta line, begins at 1,200' AGL when not depicted or when adjacent to uncontrolled airspace (UA) will be depicted with a shaded blue line, no PAR;

PAGE 4 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

MSL Mean Sea Level, altitude above sea level.

MTR Military Training Routes, high speed jet traffic route, depicted by gray solid lines, designated with letters and numbers, no PAR; NOTAM NOtice To AirMen, temporary area for apecial flight operations.

(FAR Part 91.102) or government officials and dignitaries (FAR Part 91.104), PAR; PA Prohibited Areas related to National Security, depicted by parallel blue hash marks, designated by the letter "P" or the word "Prohibited" with a number, and a listing along the local sectional chart's border with: the hours of operation, effective altitudes and controlling agency, PAR; PAR Prior Authorization Required by the controlling agency (either ATC or

the military) to legally access this area; PCA Positive Control Airspace, now designated as Class A airspace, all airspace from 18,000' MSL (FL 180) to FL 600, not depicted, PAR; RA Restricted Area, related to military testing grounds, depicted by parallel blue hash marks with the letter "R" or the word "Restricted" with a number, and a listing along the sectional chart's border with: the hours of operation, effective altitudes and controlling agency, PAR; SFC Surface, ground level; TCA Terminal Control Area, now designated as Class B airspace, located near large metropolitan areas with high volumes or large commercial aircraft, bordered by solid blue lines, composed of several segments, the floor and ceiling of which is denoted by the ratio of the ceiling over the floor in hundreds of feet MSL, originates at SFC at the airport, resembles an upside down wedding cake, PAR; TRSA Terminal Radar Service Area, now depicted with a solid black line, prior authorization compliance requested but not required UA Uncontrolled Airspace, now designated as class G airspace, effective up to 700' or 1200' MSL, has reduced cloud clearance and visibility minimums from CA, no PAR; VA Victor Airway, usually run between VOR and VORT AC navigation aids, general traffic present, extends 4 miles on either side of the centerline, depicted with a solid blue line and the letter "V" with a number, no PAR; VOR Very high frequency Omnidirectional Radio navigation aid; VORTAC VORffACAN, civil/military navigation aid, similar to VOR, no PAR; WA Warning Area, danger present, depicted by parallel blue hash marks and the letter "W" or the word "Warning", no PAR;

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Dear Paragliding Magazine,

Dear friends from the U.S.A., We are very happy to express our thankfulness for your help, both direct and indirect.

Thank you very much for "Paragliding, a pilots training manual" and "Paragliding, the Magazine". We received and translated the book and the magazines. By these we can make something like "evening classes" for members of the association.

Thanks to our letter published in your magazine, a man who understood our dreams and the absence of means, Mr. Phillipe Waffelart from Santa Fe, New Mexico sent to us a paraglider (Ailes De K - Genair 510).

We want to express our gratitude for his goodness.

For us the flight is a event. We have for flight only this paraglider, nothing else. However, we are very happy because sometimes we are like the birds.

Because our association has many members, we established a program so everybody can do 1 or 2 flights during a month. Following the advice of "PARAGLIDING, a pilots training manual", we had not any kind of accidents, although we flew in Bucegi Mountains (7500 ft. high). Also, we were towing with a 600 ft. cable and a car.

Thanks to you, now we have our sunray. With the help of "Paragliding the Magazine" we can be on time with all of the events unfolding and the news about flight materials. But our economy is in critical situation and we don't have many hopes to buy these types of material. So, again, we make appeal to your goodwill for publishing another request for aid, from American flyers. Maybe they can help us in the same way as Mr. Waffelart. Please support us with the materials you don't need: books, magazines, videotapes, equipment and paragliders, Send them to us.

We can fly with something very old, but we can't fly with nothing.

The following are some input and opinions from one of the members ... me.

Pages of hang gliding information in the Paragliding Magazine is a waste of space and effort and is insulting.

Please drop it. The magazine is thoroughly enjoyable and it is a paragliding magazine. If I want hang gliding information I will get the hang gliding magazine.

If USHGA is going to keep Paragliding as a part of it, then it must become knowledgeable about and sensitive to Paragliding.

Sending a Hang gliding magazine to a tandem Paragliding instructor to give to the tandem passenger-students is rather ridiculous.Tandem paragliding instructors do not give flights in order to promote hang gliding, we do it to promote ParaglidJ.ng.

Paragliders will not be content to be treated like second class members for very long. I understand that there is a transition stage that USHGA must go through in order to learn about Paragliding. I am writing this in order to help with that process.

Ratings should have a time requirement. We have new, low time pilots becoming instructors. No pilot who has less than 3 years of active flying experience should be an instructor or a Class Ill . pilot.Also instructors with less than 3 years active teaching experience should not be apprenticing other instructors. The Class II rating is also too easy.

We have fostered an attitude in this sport that says, "Operate outside of the rules as a renegade and you will be rewarded." ie: Instruct without an instructor rating and we will just give you a rating to make you legal. Do , tandems without a tandem rating and we will just watch passively while you make money and then we will give you a tandem rating whenever you are ready.We give the impression that USHGA doesn't have a "bite" and the "bark" is more like a whimper.

It is great that we have the magazine, site insurance and access, rating systems etc ... I appreciate what has been done in the past to make it easier ' for us now. I understand that most of the areas I mentioned are being worked on and changes are coming. I applaud and encourage this process.

Thanks for lending an ear.

1

1

P. S. With the assent of all members, we changed the name of our association. "Aircraft Association ARIELTirgoviste '92".

Please excuse the grammatical and other errors that must have occurred.

We hope you will understand and we wait for your answer. Thank you in advance.

In friendship, ARIEL,Romania

In Gratitude, Ken Hudonjorgensen USHGA Instructor

~----------------- --- ---PAGE 6 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Class m

letter from Italy I am a part of a group of Americans (and one Australian) who have begun the physically exerting, sometimes terrifying, always exhilarating, sport of paragliding in Italy. We have acquired a copy of Paragliding, The Magazine, and have passed it around until it's dog-eared and falling apart. We think it best that at least one of us pop for a subscription. One of our number, John, says he has subscribed. Being the untrustworthy type that he is, I don't believe him, so I wish to subscribe in by own name. Besides, John, even if he has subscribed, probably won't let me and my wife read his copies anyway.

Although this is a request to subscribe to your magazine, let me tell you a bit about our group.

We number around eight (the numbers vary) Americans, and one Australian, who have seen people floating around Aviano, Italy, (in the North), about an hour's drive north of Venice and started asking around about how to get started in the sport.

We hooked up with an adventurous sort, Bruno, who owns a sporting goods store in the town of Porcia, and who is the certified paragliding instructor for the area. His experience is many years as a jump master for the Italian Air Force, a hang glider pilot of many years experience, and a paraglider pilot since 1986 . Bruno is the director of a paragliding club called Adv Sports - also the name of his store. There are about 80 active members of the club, one of three clubs in the local area. I'm told by one of our Italian colleagues that there are 20,000 paraglider pilots in Italy.

We are the first group of Americans who have joined the paraglider fray here, and are going through some problems with getting certified. The certification system appears to be similar to that in the US, except it's in Italian. The study test is 100 questions, 50 of which are used at random in the formal test. The problem is that the questions are in Italian, and only two of our number speak Italian with sufficient acumen to understand them.

Bruno, who doesn't speak English, is very careful with us at our neophyte stage. We're on a training hill, with maximum flight duration so far about 30 seconds to 1 1/2 minutes, using a variety of canopies. We've had between 15 and 23 flights each among the group. Two of our group are women, and I've noted that sever-

al women are among the Italian pilots who are more experienced and fly regularly. Besides Bruno, there are two Italian club members who speak some English and help him instruct us. They're great - Marco and Claudio, both experienced pilots.

They ran up and down the training hill with us, and are now with us when we launch and land. They're selfless and always there to help and coach.

We're at the stage where we want more information about the sport and, at the same time, are experiencing information overload. We've pored over your magazine, reading articles and ads, and are at the stage where we don't know which canopy or harness or reserve chute to buy. We've all come to the conclusion that we should buy a class 1 canopy and wear the sucker out, at which time we'll be ready for a more advance (read less stable, more maneuverable) rig. Sort of on the theory of fly safely, and fly some more. On which note I'll leave you to get your magazine out, which I'll look forward to reading.

Sincerely, Bill and Carole Scribner On Accident Reports Dear Editor, Safety is a big issue in flying. It is time to take our heads out of the sand and start reporting the accidents that happen. This reporting must take place on a national level, not just local. Other sports such as climbing, kayaking, and motorcycle riding teach by means of accident reporting. For us to ignore accidents as a group is criminal.

Accidents in mountaineering are always discussed. Why then is there a silence in the paragliding community? Why don't the magazines publish accident reports? This silence is stupid. "Cascade Lines", of the Cascade Paragliding Club, is more interesting to read than any national publication.

There have been three deaths this year in paragliding. I think that they have all been related to towing. There have been many other minor accidents, such as broken wrists, ankles, arms, backs, etc. Risk assessment can be accurate only when accidents are analyzed thoroughly. Learning can only occur if the analysis is published for all to read, an attitude of safety is born with awareness of what dangers exist, even for the experi-

enced, no matter what the sport, the person who goes too fast (too far, too close, etc.) will crash. Accident reports help establish what is too much. People who withhold accident information from publication are contributing to future accidents.

Ancil Nance, Editor of Cascade Lines newsletter Portland, OR Dear pilots, Some of you may have been wondering what happens to your accident report forms. I want to give you a brief chronology of the transition from Dr. Mark Shipman to Dr. Fred Moy. Early in 1993 I spoke with Dr. Shipman in response to his letter in which he expressed an interest in passing on the job of accident reporting. Later it was mentioned to me that I had been nominated for the position at the spring BOD meeting. I was never formally told that I was appointed to the position.

Dr. Shipman sent some reports to me in June 1993. I spoke to Dr. Doug Hildreth, hang gliding chairman, and found out that he was receiving reports for both hang gliding and paragliding. We clarified with the USHGA that I would receive all future reports. These began to get to me in June.

During the merger period only hang gliding report forms were available.

After working with Greg Huller at USHGA we now have two sided forms, one side for hang gliding and the other for paragliding.

During June and July I received twenty reports including one fatality.

These have been reviewed by an independent physician, Dr. David Millward, who I am using as my reference physician.

Since there is no protocol on file, I have sent to USHGA a standard and widely acceptable document to establish the basis and ground rules under which I will conduct accident reporting. This document "Guidelines for Good Epidemiology Practices", provides a basis for conducting ethical and orderly monitoring and research.

I have instituted a policy of submitting synopses through the "Hang Gliding Bulletin Board" using electronic mail. Synopses of incidents will be instantly available to those who take advantage of that service.

Reports can be submitted to me via electronic mail at the internet E- mail

address,(moy @nymc. edu). When this is done a paper copy should also be sent to my address at New York Medical College. This electronic mail experiment will continue through October1993.

I am working on an article for Paragliding the Magazine to bring members up to date on the current status, the procedure, implications and results of filing reports. Accident reports will be published twice yearly, in the magazine before each Board Meeting, beginning in this issue.

Directors will receive a written briefing on accidents from me in Aug. Sept. and Oct. in an effort to mollify concerns about the absence of such reports during the first six months, owing to the merger, the transition of responsibilities to myself, and the confusion temporarily resulting at USHGA. I hope this sufficiently explains why you have not seen accident reports as of yet this year. There is no hidden agenda only an overload of work, and more people who would rather complain than volunteer to help.

Sincerely,

Dr. Fred Moy USHGA Accident Committee Chairman for Paragliding

Advanced Maneuvers or is a Safety Clinic Safe?

Dear Editor, Recently there has been much controversy over the wisdom of attending an advanced maneuvers clinic.

Detractors of the clinics claim that doing thH maneuvers will damage the canopy , put the participants at risk, and give them a false sense of confidence. Supporters counter that damage to the canopy is negligible and that advanced maneuvers clinics provide the safest format for learning and mastering canopy control, which may help the pilot avoid a serious accident.

In this letter I wish to look at both sides of the controversy so that you can make an informed decision.

Let me start by stating the obvious, collapses and stalls whether intentional or accidental are not good for your suspension lines or canopy. The snap of a reopening or recovery stresses these components and weakens them. If collapse is not good then a more appropriate question is how much does one stall weaken the

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 7

glider? Will one , ten, or a hundred collapses be required to significantly damage a paraglider? We know that certified gliders are load tested to 7 G's but this is only a single stress. How about repetitive stress such as,in repeated collapses and recoveries.

Paraglider manufacturer's are standing on both sides of the fence on this issue. Some believe the educational benefits gained from a clinic far outweighs the negligible damage to the canopy. While others do not recommend attending a clinic due to the potential damage to the glider.

One might wonder if we should be flying these airbags in turbulence at all. One might also wonder what these manufacturers are really concerned about,the glider damage or the increased liability if they go on record recommending maneuvers clinics. The German DHV strongly recommends advanced maneuvers be included in a pilot's training program and knows of no damage to paragliders resulting from a clinic. Another possibility is to use special "maneuver gliders" provided by the clinic organizer and save your own wing from potential abuse.

Since I mentioned the word "liability" we might as well as discuss it . There is currently a move in U.S.H.G.A. to distance itself from any potential liability by removing the advanced maneuvers clinic requirement for advanced ratings such as the Class Ill and Instructor. The concern is that if someone gets hurt at a maneuvers clinic, U.S.H.G.A. might be liable since it requires the clinic. A further liability concern for U.S.H.G.A. might center around not requiring this clinic: What if instructors are on longer required to attend this clinic and accidents occur because of this lack of training.

Do the benefits outweigh the risks?

Let me first state another obvious truth: There is nothing safe about a safety or advanced maneuvers clinic. Any time you voluntarily or involuntarily give up control of your wing you are putting yourself at increased risk. The key however in any risk sport is to limit these risks as mush as you possibly can. A well-run maneuvers clinic does this by: 1) providing expert instruction before and during maneuvers.

PAGE 8 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

2) inspecting reserves and training pilots in the use of reserve incase a maneuver becomes unrecoverable.

3) performing all maneuvers over water and 4) only practicing spins, stalls and collapses as optional maneuvers and never for fame or fun.

I consider expert instruction the most important ingredient in reducing risk by clearly briefing and talking pilots through potentially dangerous maneuvers.

The U.S.H.G.A. has recognized that only a handful of US pilots have the extensive experience with these maneuvers to confidently train pilots. Checks of reserves and instructions in their use are important in making a deployment successfu I should the need arise.

Finally, should all other systems fail, water is softer than dirt and should--except in the most severe impacts-- prevent serious injury.

This possibility of severe impact despite all precautions taken is exactly why we never want to put ourselves at greater risk for fun or fame.

So what are the benefits to advanced maneuver training?

Skeptics contend that intentional collapses performed in smooth air do not simulate well real-life collapses that occur in turbulent air.

There is merit to this objection but no one is seriously proposing that new pilots go fly in turbulence to gain actual experience in collapse recovery. The next best thing must then be simulated turbulence in the form of an advanced maneuvers clinic. I have found that pilots who have practiced recovery from intentional collapses are much more cool and effective in dealing with real life collapses than those who have not. More important than learning how to recover from stalls and spins is becoming aware of their warnings signs and avoiding them all together. Furthermore there are quick descent techniques that are just plain useful to know such as big ears,and B-line stalls As I stated in my introduction, the purpose of this letter is to address some of the issues surrounding advanced maneuvers clinics so that you would be better prepared to make your own choice on whether to attend or not to attend Granger Banks, U.S.H.G.A. Class Ill instructor.

In a time where copies are as respected as originals, and companies are claiming to have created originals after making slight modifications on an existing design, it sometimes seems difficult to adhere to our own concepts.

However, ifwe admit to ourselves, that without the innovative courage of a few firms, we would still be flying with free fall canopies, there is no other option but to choose a responsible and coni,cious company who sticks to their own developments.

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Airtek USA• 4206 C Sorrento Valley Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92121 ° Tel/Fax (619)450-0437 John Yates/Pro Design 1600 E. Cypress Ave. #8, Redding, CA 96002 phone/fax (916) 222-4606

UNDERSTANDING

THE SKY

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• 140 Pages @ 62 Illustrations • Skills, Aerodynamics.

Weather Equipment, and More Available from paragliding schools and dealers, or direct from Wills Wing· 500 Blueridge Ave. · Orange, Ca 92665, include $2.00 for postage and handling.

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 9

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Voice . . operated (Vox) radio transmission: the problem solved!

Laszlo Hemmert from Hungary sends this simple solution to the well-known problem of inadvertent transmission from VOX-activated radios. Technical editing by P. Blakeney.

As most are aware, the biggest causes of misactivation are wind noise and the huffing and puffing of a pilot as he or she ground handles the glider while forgetting that the radio is switched on.

Most pilots try to solve this by putting big foam plastic 'pop shields' over the microphone capsule. However, 'Hemi' points out that this only modifies the frequency response rather than the sensitivity of the microphone, and is inelegant.

Hemi has successfully applied the following solution to over 50 headsets; the cost of the modification is ridiculously low. With his circuit, the input to the transmitter is fooled into thinking that there is a reduced sensitivity microphone. The resistor network R1 and VR1 acts as a simple adjustable voltage divider, and can be set manually, such that the transmitter operates when you speak at a good, fairly loud level; the frequency response is unchanged.

The suggested mounting of the trimmer resistor VR1 is such that the sensitivity can be set with your fingernail. Hemi has made a drawing (at right) showing the Yaesu YH2 headsets type CHP-111 and -150. Drill a hole through the body wall for the legs of the trimmer resistor, and secure the trimmer with Araldite. The remaining resistor R1, and the ends of the microphone wires are soldered using a 'built in the air' technique, i.e. the pins of the resistors give good enough rigidity without the need to mount anything inside

the body.

As can be seen from the circuit diagram the capacitor-microphone ('ectret' microphone) C is connected across the voltage divider circuit R1/VR1, with the common rail going to EAR PIECE the sleeve of the jack plug.

The trimmer centre-rail goes to the centre conductor of the jack plug. This means, of course, that you must first cut the latter signal wire inside the headset body. Make sure that no conductors are touching after your work, and use -.....,-":k, insulating tape or sleeves if appropriate.

Vox Unit

o.,

a

~

Mir.

MIC./EAR

Circuit Diagram VR1

C1

MJ1

M1

Ml:

Electric Mike

C1:

1Nf' Capacitor

R1:

1.2 Mil Resistor

VR1:

47 KU Trimmer

MJ1:

Mic. Jackplug

--------------~------ --------

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Its one of those gorgeous spring days. The air is like crystal and the temperature is perfect. And best of all, you are free today to go fly.

Launch is not crowded, and everyones mood is a match for the weather.

Your launch Is great and you fall into the perfect thermal within ninety seconds. Four minutes later you are nine hundred feet above launch, still climbing. And then you're tumbling with the wing folded. It crosses your mind that the man was right when he said that at times like this, only the best will do.

At RC/ we are committed to providing the best system on the market today. We offer two models: LIFELINE for retrofitting to your existing emergency parachute, and SIDEKICK, a complete parachute and deployment system in a compact package. Both models feature: --proven design, proven technology --remote mounted activation handle --built with the best materials and workmanship --enclosed cables and bridles for snag protection We offer a complete line of emergency parachutes designed and built to the same exacting standards, and service to match the quality of our products.

Call or write for further information. Dealer inquiries are invited.

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Phone (916) 661-7243 Fax (916) 661-0528

-~----~-~ PAGE 10• PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

HIGH SECURITY HIGH PERFORMANCE

RAINBOW COMPETITION PROVEN PERFORMANCE

ORION UNSURPASSED STABILITY

- SEGURA MAX STEERABLE RESERVES EDEL USA Inc. PO Box 5715 301 Bell Drive Ketchum, ID 83340 Phone/Fax (208) 726-1 00

32m, 38m, 52m

SON DER-EDITION

adar by

AYJEC

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

I want to thank my sponsors, friends, and fellow team members for all their support, Edel USA, Ball Vario, Paragliding the Magazine, Bob, John, Bill and my babe Margo. See ya in the sky!

National order

The 1993 World Championship in Verbier, Switzerland was without a doubt, the biggest, most prestigious and the toughest competition I've been in. When I got into paragliding my goal was to get good enough to qualify for the US Team and be able to fly in a World Class meet. (Been there, done that.) To have the opportunity to fly against the best of the best. Wow, what a humbling experience. Pilots in the US have two competition meets a year and we think we're pretty hot. Think again! This years world meet showed me just how far we've come and how much further we need to go if we want to be on their (STARS) level.

First of all, the US (U.S.H.G.A.) needs to organize their paragliding team like they do the hang gliding team (support them, train, organize and coach, strategy, etc.). This is not to say that the three of us who went this year weren't a team because with all of these above items missing we still tried to act and fly as if we were a serious team. Bob England, John Bouchard and me (B.O.B. Schick) did in fact do our best to represent our country in an event that every other country have been professionals at for years.

All this aside, Verbier was an incredible experience. We flew with the stars - Hans Bollinger, John Pendry, Robby Whittall, Urs Harri, Ernst Strobl, and too many others to mention. All are absolute legends in the world of paragliding and well deserving of the acclaim. The tasks we flew weren't so tough that people couldn't complete them (with the exception of a couple of days) but consistent good decision making, knowledge of the area and condilions, good crew and coach support definitely proved to make a difference. Of course there is always a littie luck involved, but when your'e as organized as some of the other country's luck is kept to a minimum.

As I'm sure other people will write about the meet a little more detailed than I am (i.e. tasks flown, horror stoPAGE 12 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

ries and of course how disorganized the organizers seemed to be and oh yes, the poor launch sites), I'm just conveying to you guys that it truly was the best competition I've participated in. To have the opportunity to hang out with the STARS and to meet and fly with people like Chris Muller, Alex Louw, Ali Gali, Gin Song, Nanou Berger (Joan of Ark) is well worth the risk and expense.

I personally learned more in this one meet than in all the US competilions combined. I got the opportunity to fly with Bob and John, not against them (what a switch). We did have some great fun with Bill Watson and Margo as our coaches, support crew, gophers, nursemaids and camera crew. Definitely an experience I will never forget.

I hope I can do it again some day but for those competition pilots who think they're ready to take on the world, I suggest you spend at least two years over in Europe flying and learning from the stars first. To the rest of you, just be content to read about them and help support them in training for these competitions.

BIER

&mk 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

27.

54.

61.

~ Sui. Ger. Aut. GB. Fra Aut. Fra. Ger. Fra. Sui. NZ Aus. Aut. GB GB Aut. lta.

GB Sui. Sui. USA USA USA

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Country Switzerland Austria England France Germany Italia South Africa Korea Japan Australia Norway United States Venezuela New Zealand Spain Liechtenstein Israel Canada Slovenia Sweden Taiwan Hungary Argentina Hong Kong Tchekia Slovakia Belgium Brazil Poland

Pt:Total 18,643 17,838 17,803 17,758 17,168 14,546 13,722 12,895 12,572 12,543 12,239 12,114 12,035 11,530 11,309 11,238 11,126 10,753 8,485 7,380 6,336 5,658 5,621 4,078 3,915 3,684 3,370 2,344 1,929 1,070

0

Ellm.MIIDI Bollinger Harns Strobl Ernst Tammegger Chris Pendry John Berod Patrick Perner Camilla Gallon Richard Berkman Richard Exiga Didier Vonlathan Eric Nighy Simon W. Young Cameron Holzmueller Walter Silvester John Whittal Rob Tchanhenz Ewald Pacher Luciano Goldsmith Bruce Haari Urs Hefti Robert England Robert Schick Bob Bouchard John

Im!Pls.

Airwave Rave Edel Rainbow Edel Rainbow UP FR UP FR Nova Splnx Edel Rainbow Edel Rainbow Edel Rainbow Navajo Firebird

Airwave Rave Edel Rainbow Apco Supra Edel Rainbow ITV Atix

6,582 5,885 5,822 5,820 5,783 5,711 5,527 5,470 5,462 5,427 5,386 5,381 5,365 5,240 5,238 5,138 5,046 5,025 5,018 5,010 4,709 3,944 3,461

VERBIER WORLD

PG MEET

PARAGLIDING THE MAGAZINE

.-.

US team (Lto R) Bob Schick, Bob England, John Bouchard

PAGE 22 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

PARAGLIDING , THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 00

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

By Sean Dougherty ince the last two years of the Western Canadian Paragliding Championships had been so successful, the Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association of Canada decided to go ahead with a national championship be held at Canada's premier flying site in Golden, B.C. Hence, on the 29th of July, 1993, twenty-nine competitors and fifteen free-flyers gathered in Golden for the five day competition. Sadly, the weather gods didn't co-operate the first two days, providing only rain, high winds, and severe lightening storms.

Thankfully, the last three days of the meet were graced with sunny skies, and the meet was validated.

Open distance was called on the first good day, since the forecast wind of 11 knots at 9000 feet made an out-andreturn task improbable. Fortune shined on those that took off early in the afternoon, as the wind shifted and strengthened to its forecast strength, making the take-off tricky and the flying an adventure in advanced maneuvers. Most that managed to get high at launch made an inordinately fast glide to land anywhere from 12-to 24 km out. Four pilots, however, managed to get sufficiently high to avoid the perils of lee-side rotors in the early stages, and fly substantially further than the rest of the field. Willi Muller and Erich Unterberger won the day, both landing in the same field 65 km from launch. US pilot Bill Gordon endeavored for almost an hour to scrape his way up the front of Mt Seven to cloudbase whilst others bombed into the LZ, and eventually took third place for the day with 59 km. Eric Oddy was fourth at 44 km, after getting dumped in very heavy sink.

Several pilots went back up to launch for a second flight in the evening and enjoyed much more mellow conditions.

A few took advantage of the "as-manyf Ii g hts-a s yo u-1 i ke" rule to get better scores than on their earlier flights.

The weather forecast for the fourth day of the meet promised lighter winds.

Open distance was called again to allow pilots to attempt 100 km flights, the sort of distances that makes Golden a famous flying site. Again, the pilots that took off early managed to get established on the main range running south from launch. However, the winds picked up again. Instead of reliving the excitement of the previous round, many com-

petitors just flew out to land, and several of those who hadn't launched by the time the winds picked up just walked back down. Three pilots were down range at this time, essentially ridge soaring the mountains since the thermals were blown apart by the wind. Each of these pilots eventually flew out to the valley, since sinking below the ridge offered only severe thrashings. Sean Dougherty won the day with 38 km, with Erich Unterberger in second (35 km) and Willi Muller third (32 km).

The fifth and final day of the meet has traditionally been a race-to-goal of 30 km. Since the sun was out and the winds were calm a longer race of 44 km was called, to take advantage of classic Golden XC conditions. The window was opened at 1:30 but the mountain was shaded by an apparently stationary cloud. By 2:15 the cloud shifted and Eric Oddy launched just before Willi Muller.

Watching these two rapidly gain height opened the flood gates and most pilots took off in the next fifteen minutes. With a hang-glider competition the same day, there were numerous thermal markers en route to goal and all pilots managed to get established on the course. Taking advantage of a cloud-street Willi managed to pass a shaded area at 30 km

Official Results of the 1st Anrmal Canadian Paragliding Championship Golden, EJ.C. Pilot

C:mmtry

W. Muller E. Unterberger' S. Dougherty B. Gordon E. Oddy D. Kruglinski B. Tracy P. Kloepfer B. Hannah G. Henderson H. Siempelkamp C. Fussell S Northey T Cooper J. Chodanowski T. Pavelic D Leinweber S Roti M. Ferguson S.Lutz M. Duford K. MacCullough K. Froklage G. Comfort D Carylo P Hajek S. Levitt G. Pezderic J. Nazarchuk

Canada Canada Canada

us us us us us

Canada

Canada Canada S. Africa

us

Canada Canada

us us us

Canada

Canada Canada Canada Canada Canada Canada Canada Canada Canada Canada

GliderType

Day 1 Dist JQll] Apco Supra 30 65 600 Edel Racer 65 600 Apco Astra 27 12 225 Flight Design C2 59 549 Apco Astra 27 44 450 Flight Design 10 164 ITV Nunki 100 12 225 Edel Space 10 164 Flight Design A4 28 10 164 Apco Supra 11 184 Pro Design Challenger 1O 164 Apco Astra 29 18 273 ITV Aliks 10 164 Apco Starlite II 2 65 Apco Astra 29 11 184 Firebird Apache 23 10 164 12 225 Apco Astra 27 Ailes de K Flyair 950 0 46 Firebird Navajo 31 24 317 12 194 Apco Supra25 18 273 ApcoSupra Apco Hilite II 12 225 0 46 Apco Hilite II Apco Supra 25 0 46 U.S. Voile Gemini 24 0 46 UP Stellar27 85 4 Custom Sail XP 0 46 Airwave BlackMagic 0 46 Apco Hilite II 46 0 ---------

PAGE 14 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

and get established well ahead of the field and arrive at goal at 4: 12.

Meanwhile, many other pilots sank out at this point to land between 32 to 38 km out. Those that didn't sink out had to work hard to stay up. In a head-to-head race into goal Erich Unterberger and Sean Dougherty had to find lift 2 km short of goal. In the ensuing one-thermal race Sean arrived at goal 3 minutes ahead of Erich, though 40 minutes behind Willi. Bob Hannah (+55 minutes), Harry Siempelkamp (+63 minutes) and Dave Kruglinski (+83 minutes) also made goal. Several pilots overflew goal in pursuit of personal best distances, the best of the day being 65 km. With such close competition over the three days between Willi and Erich it was clearly going to be close. Due to an excellent race flight, Willi took first place from Erich with a score of 1727 over 1711. In third was Sean Dougherty.

The excellent conditions of the final round compensated for the less than ideal, turbulent conditions of the first two rounds, with almost everyone happy with their final day's flight. The fact that six pilots made goal in 2-3 hours indicates that races over longer distances are certainly possible at this site. Next year!

Day 2 Dist. IQ@] 32 527 35 566 38 600 13 283 13 283 14 307 14 307 18 371 0 67 15 325 0 67 0 67 0 67 18 371 0 67 2 95 7.5 196 11 240 0 67 12 258 7 177 2.5 122 2.5 122 67 0 735 196 67 0 67 0 2.5 122 67 0

Day::I Dist. Total 44 600 44 545 44 5558 36 396 38 425 44 482 36 396 33.5 350 44 524 21 232 44 509 35 368 44 475 23 261 38 425 36 396 21 232 28 304 18 183 DNF DNF 7 75 21 232 21.5 243 10.5 108 19 197 18 183 11 118 DNF

Total l'o:.

1727 1711 1380 1228 1157 953 929 885 755 741 740 708 706 697 675 655 653 590 566 452 449 422 400 356 350 349 296 286 113

-----

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

onship will be held in Japan in 1995 and the European 1994 championship in Slovenia from July 1 to the 15th.

Issued by Angus Pinkerton Chairman of the Flying and Safety Committee-BHPA -12 August 1993 AIRWAVIE VOODOO GUDIERS (Except Voodoo II model)

Following a recent incident where an Airwave Voodoo remained in deep stall on recovery from a 'B' line maneuver, the Airworthiness Panel of the Flying and Safety Committee issues these strong recommendations: 1. All Airwave Voodoo gliders must be subjected to an air permeability test as soon as possible.

These gliders should not be flown until they have been tested.

2. Any Voodoo that records a lower reading than: a) 5 seconds on the JDC porosity meter, or b) 20 seconds on the Hoppe and Schneider meter. are to be considered grounded and MUST NOT BIE !FLOWN. 3. Airwave Voodoos that record greater than those stated above may be flown, but should be retested every three months (maximum), or 10 hrs flying, whichever is the shorter.

NOTE: This safety notice does NOT apply to the Airwave Voodoo 2 model.

All pilots are reminded that the air permeability of paraglider material is critical to the flying characteristic of their wing and should be checked regularly. Any paraglider with values close to those shown above should be flown only with extra care.

Brazil's longest: Xavier Remond with an "Advance Omega". 123.4 km during the Governador competition.

The next world paragliding champi-

"D'helice de Chine" A movie made

by Gilles Santantonio on paramotoring, has received the first prize at the 7th world festival of "Images and Mountains" in Briancon (France).

France is expecting 100,000 pilots of "Vol Libre" (Free Flight) by the year 2000.

Xavier Remond again, will not be flying with Advance anymore, but for Edel.

For the "Coup lcare" the 18th and 19th of September 1993 at St. Hilairedu-Touvet (France), a new competition category organized by "Aile de K" will take place. "Synchronized Paragliding Flying". Each team will be composed of 3 to 5 members and will be judged on originality, technique, artistic sense, and respect of the rules of the air, No stalls, spins, closures above 30% etc ..

SUP AIR Manufacturer of harnesses and paragliding accessories is looking for one dealer per (USHGA) region to represent its line of product, with the exception of regions 2, 3, 4, 12 which are already taken.

Please contact: GMI Corp Sup'Air/USA At: (516)676-7599; FAX:(516) 676-0106

Where the 1000 hang glider pilots have finally been authorized to fly higher than 100 meters above ground! Some pilots are now allowed to fly up to 750m with a special permit. They have to belong to an aerobatic club, and own a special altimeter that will be checked every two years. Stupid decision by the authorities which are now trying to decide also, what to do with this new sport called "Paragliding". By the way, the 100 meter max, altitude above

ground for pilots still stands for paragliders. "Vol Libre" (Freedom of Flight) obviously doesn't have the same meaning everywhere around the world! In Holland you can grow your own hashish but can't fly a paraglider.

Norway's highest mountain, the 2,469m Galdhopiggen was successfully landed on by Voodoo pilot Fred Halse recently. Surrounded by glaciers and difficult to reach. Fred was the first paraglider pilot to land on the summit, although three hang glider pilots achieved this three years ago.

The event made the headlines in Norway's largest magazine.

Yes Ethel, paragliding is alive and well in Arkansas. Mountain sites that have been flown so far are: Long Pool, Short Mtn., Haney's Point, Sugarloaf, Morgan and Mayflower.

These sites were all flown with low performance beginner gliders. There is also towing and instruction. For more info contact Sail Wings (501) 663-3166.

Keep it up.

Larry Haney

LINE STRETCH All Paragliders manufactured by Flight Design have lines constructed of a Spectra core with a nylon sheath around it. Although the Spectra core has a minimal stretch and shrink rate, the nylon sheath does shrink more.

When lines get wet from humidity or dew, and then dry, all of the lines shrink on the paraglider. The next time you fly on your paraglider, the A and B lines get stretched because they are heavily loaded compared to the C and D lines which do not automatically re-stretch. In time, the C and D lines will shrink to the point of affecting the canopy's performance, especially when flying in moist conditions. For this reason, we recommend that all pilots take the time to re-

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 15

stretch their lines from time to time.

To re-stretch your lines, hook the rapid link of the C and D lines to a solid base, and then grasp the end of the lines at the loops or flares on the canopy, Individually pull each C and D line until the pulling becomes obviously stronger, then pull through the elastic range of the sheath (about 20 lbs). This should reset the line to the correct line length Normally there is no need to measure the lines after this procedure, but occasionally we recommend a confirmation of the line lengths according to the line diagram included in the manual that came with each canopy, MANEUVERS ...

Don't do them! Although all Flight Design paragliders have achieved specific ratings for various maneuvers, we see no reason to 'practice being miserable', Advanced aerobatics such as full stalls, flat spins, etc. are potentially dangerous maneuvers that should be performed by test pilots, with all safety checks in place, and not by weekend pilots.

Furthermore, even though the quality craftsmanship on Flight Design is second to none, these maneuvers do create an added stress which may affect the longevity of paragliders (of any manufacturer). Basic canopy reduction maneuvers which you teach each of your Class II or advanced Class I pilots as safety techniques are of course fine.

Golden Eagle Paragliding based in Anchorage, Alaska has reluctantly discontinued school operations until further notice. The primary and immediate reason for the closure is the loss of affordable site insurance which resulted from the merger between the American Paragliding Assoc. (APA) and the United States ,

Hang Gliding Assoc, (USHGA). The APA insurance covered commercial operations while the USHGA covers only recreational ones . The school cannot conduct commercial paragliding activities on state lands without protecting the State of Alaska with property liability coverage.

Golden Eagle Paragliding will continue to promote the safe growth of paragliding In Alaska through clinics, demos, and the latest information and expert advice on our rapidly changing sport. Our instructors will continue to sign off tasks toward pilot ratings Golden Eagle Paragliding remains committed to providing the Alaska paragliding community with the best equipment, service and support available anywhere.

The future of Golden Eagle Paragliding School and for any safe, certified instruction in the State of Alaska will depend on a variety of factors. Due to the high costs of insurance and training equipment, the shortness of our training season and the lack of full-time instructors, the long-term survival of an Alaskan paragliding school may require a more cooperative, perhaps club-oriented approach. For four years, Golden Eagle Paragliding has subsidized our school operations through equipment sales. Although this is not currently sufficient to cover operating costs (i.e. Site insurance), our goal is to resolve these issues and to reopen in the Spring of '94.

LAWRENCE HARGRAVE INTERNATIONAL Paragliding Competition The dates for the Lawrence Hargrave International Paragliding Comp. to be held at Stanwell Park, have been changed to 21 - 27 February, 1994. This is to ensure that pilots are able to attend all major Paragliding competitions of the Australian season. These are as follow: Victorian Open 26 - 30 Nov 1993 Bright, Victoria Mt Cole International XC Classic 15 23 Jan 1994 Beaufort, Victoria

________ ____________ ,

PAGE 16 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Australian Paragliding Open 29 Jan 5 Feb 1994 Corryong, Victoria Flatlands (Paragliding) 13 - 20 Feb 1994 Forbes, N .S.W Lawrence Hargrave International Paragliding 21 - 27 Feb 1994 Stanwell Park, N.S.W The Lawrence Hargrave International Hang Gliding Comp. has NOT been changed and will still be held from 29 Jan - 6 Feb, 1994.

I would be very grateful if you could advise your readers/associates of these dates.

If you require any further information, please contact Kieran Tapsell, 19 Stanwell Avenue, Stanwell Park NSW 2508 (tel: 042 942645) or Annelies Norland, 12 Georges Road, Otford NSW 2508 (tel: 042 943094)

The paragliding tour of the year starts here!

Join Mike Eberle and North American Paragliding for our 3rd annual New Zealand Adventure where you will enjoy some of the Worlds finest thermal flying. Together with a local Kiwi guide and pilot, you will be led to some of the most incredible sites imaginable, Includes

• Incredible cross country flying • Amazing altitude gains from Corronet Peak-site of the New Zealand nationals • Heli - gliding on Bowens Mt.near Queenstown • Heli - gliding from Mt Roy near Wanaka • Awesome flights from Trebble Cone with spectacular birds eye views of Twin Falls • Deluxe accommodations in the Spinnaker Bay condominiums • All ground transportation, including retrievals • All lift, gondola, launch, and landing fees North American Paragliding PO. Box 4, Ellensburg, WA 98926 Ph (509) 925-5565 FAX (509) 9624827

level gliders. Competition pilots in both the US and Europe have reported the Rainbow as being incredibly stable and well behaved while flying in strong thermal conditions. The small rainbow is still pending certification.

COMPETITION RESULTS -STU BAI CUP1993 AUSTRIA 1st -Andre Bucher -Edel Racer 2nd -Marcus Grunhammer -Edel Racer 4th -Peter Gegg -Edel Racer KYUSHU P. W. C., 1993 JAPAN 1st -Sebastien Bourquin -Edel Rainbow 6th -Urs Haari -Edel Rainbow 7th -Camilla Perner -Edel Rainbow ENGLEBERG INTERNATIONAL SWISS CHAMPIONSHIP 1993 WOMENS 1st -Gabriella Wuest -Edel Rainbow 2nd -Cornellia Hugelshofer-Edel Rainbow 3rd -Sylvia Hugelshofer -Edel Rainbow MEN'S 1st -Urs Haari

-Edel Rainbow

ELSINORE XC COMPETITION, MAY 1993, USA 2nd -Greg Smith 3rd -Chuck Smith

-Edel Rainbow -Ede/Space

TELLURIDE PARAGLIDING CLASSIC, JUNE 1993, USA 1st -Greg Smith 4th - Bob Schick 5th -Mike Bellic

·Edel Rainbow -Edel Rainbow -Edel Rainbow

FRENCH NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS, JULY 1993 1st -Patrick Be rod

-Edel Rainbow

ACPUL CERTIFICATION FOR RAINBOW ACPUL certification was successfully completed for EDEL'S new competition level glider- the Rainbow. Good results were received by all sizes.

The results were as follows: -Rainbow M: ?A's 3B's -Rainbow L: 7A's 3B's -Rainbow XL : 7A's 2B's 1C The security and handling of the rainbow remain as of yet unmatched for a glider of this caliber. The amazing performance of the Rainbow is now paired with a level of stability previously unseen with competition

ACPUL CERTIFICATION FOR SECURA MAX RESERVEAlso, the SECURA MAX reserve parachute is now ACPUL certified.

The SECURA MAX, available in 32, 38, and 52 square meters is the only truly steerable PDA paragliding reserve available with a measurable glide ratio. The 38 and 52 meter reserves are also the largest certified reserves available in the US for paragliding. In addition. the 52 meter version is the only reserve currently obtainable with an acceptable descent rate and certified for tandem use.

Edel USA Would like to welcome three new members to the EDEL team: -Bob Schick will be flying for EDEL as a factory/competition pilot. Bob has extensive competition experience and is presently flying in the World Championships in Verbier, Switzerland with the US team.

-Xavier Remand has left Advance and will also be flying for Edel as a factory/competition pilot. Xavier is a former holder of the world XC open distance record and is an internationally ranked competition pilot.

-Dave Bridges has been hired by Edel to work as a customer service representative and rigger at our shop in Ketchum, ID. Dave has been working in the paragliding industry for over three years and has extensive experience working with and testing reserve parachutes.

On July 15th, the Spanish/English pilot Steve Ham, flew a new Spanish Record & European best in Spain.

Steve launched his Navajo 31 at Lastra del Cano (Avila) at 15:40 and landed at 21 :05 in Campestelo (Valladolid). The first part of the flight was quite slow in weak, scratchy thermals, but after 5pm conditions became easier as Steve used a con-

vergence zone street to his advantage. Much of the latter part of the flight was spent gliding along the edge of large cumulus clouds.

The late take-off meant that Steve missed at least 3 hours of possible flying, but he preferred to remain cautious as conditions looked very rough during the middle of the day.

Steve flew with a barograph & camera, and had many witnesses both on takeoff & landing. It remains to be seen whether FAI certification will be given because it is not certain that an FAI observer was on take-off, but the flight was nevertheless the furthest in Europe with a paraglider.

Place:

Lastra de/ Cano (Avila), Spain Flight Distance: 160 km Flight Time: 5hrs 25 min. paraglider: Firebird Navajo 31

The New Zealand National Paragliding Championships will be held in NZ's south island from the 8th to the 16th of January 1994.

Sponsored by the Mt Cook airlines, the championships take place in the heart of the Southern Alps at the resort town of Queenstown.

Overseas pilots are very welcome.

Contact: Roger Banks or Shaun Barry at (64) 3 442 3457; or FAX (64) 3 442 6749. PO BOX 432.

Queenstown, New Zealand.

Super pilot Pierre Bouilloux did it again, and again, and again ... After having beaten his own FAI world paragliding triangle record twicein May, he did it a third time on June 5th Launching from Le Grand Bernand near Annecy, he completed a World Record 132 km FAI triangle in 8h 30min. It is no wonder that he is leading the French paragliding distance cup by a long shot.

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 17

UTAH New Sites, Great Flights

U.S. FLIGHTS 1st's and Bests SITE DISTANCE RECORD CALIFORNIA On July 23rd , 1993, ED STEIN flying an ADVANCE OMEGA 2 , set a new San Francisco Bay Area distance paragliding record of 41 MILES. Ed launched from Mt .Diablo in Contra Costa County and left the mountain at 5600 ft flying NE towards Antioch then East landing just south of Lodi California .

-Congratulations to Bob Schick who in July made the first ever crossing from the Point of the Mountain to Lone Peak in a paraglider. Bob accomplished this often tried cross country flight in his new Edel Rainbow. The flight itself was noteworthy but even more so in that Bob had launched from the 300 ft. south side! He repeated the flight a few days later - this time launching from the north side.

The 3 hour flight broke the previous Bay Area distance record {also set by Ed Stein in March 1993) of 35 miles from Mission Peak to San Martin .

-Ken Hudonjorgenson established a new XC route on the Wasatch range .

Ken pioneered the route launching from Mt. Olympus at 5500' benching up to 10,000' and heading south . On his first attempt on June 29 , Ken reached the North edge of Corner Canyon , 12 miles , {bench level below Lone Peak). He made the flight on his new Flight Designs A-4 .

Ed stated parts of the flight were quite turbulent but the glider was never a concern. It was "great to fly a glider that inspires confidence".

-On July 5, John Bouchard flew the route making it across Corner Canyon to land on the North Side Pt. of the Mountain , 13.5 miles. Ken was right

behind him also crossing Corner Canyon (but just barely). John was on an ITV Atix . Ken says it is a Class 11/111 site and that it is a 4-5000' bench up in 7mph winds (big compression zone).

Ken and John are the first paraglider pilots to fly into the Point from another site.

Well done gentlemen!

USHGA FALL BOD MEETING The next BOD Meeting will be held in Nashua New Hampshire, Oct.8 , 9, & 10th. An excellent time of year to see New England. If you can't attend yourself but have something you want aired please let your regional director know. The regional director is your personal representative at these meetings. Let's make USHGA work for YOU.

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Airborne Canada North American Windsports Paragliding 1764 Cedar Hill P.O. Box 4 Cross Road, Ellensburg WA 98926 Victoria, PH. 509-925-5565 British Columbia.

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FLUGELECT.RON IC Pi.itrichstraBe 21 • D-82362 Weilheim · Tel. 0881/64750 · Fax 0881/4561 PAGE 18 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Made in Germany

PARAGLIDING , THE MAGAZINE

Mastering the male menopause, or, better late than never.

Ralph Gou/am maintains you 're never to old to learn, or enjoy, something new There came a time in my life when I finally had to accept that the face staring back at me from the bathroom mirror each day was my own the hair, grey and going ; the wrinkles, signs that I can no longer use all the skin that I've got; and so on. The question then was: "For how much longer is it, and the attached body, going to carry on?"

It is at this moment, according to cynical female friends , that a man enters the male menopause - and the most commonly apparent symptom of this (so I've been told) is that , just to prove to all and sundry that he hasn't, he then rushes around trying to do things of which he is no longer physically or mentally capable . That's what I heard said all around me when I took up squash five or six years ago and started skiing two years since. But I secretly knew that they were wrong, because one kindly friend (a male , of course) had told me that his conclusion in life was that the longer you keep the parts moving , the longer they will keep on moving.

When my friend , Jim, and I went skiing in the Tyrol in March this year and saw (and envied) .the paragliders soaring in the sunlight above the slopes , it was therefore only natural that we should say to one another: "That looks good; we ought to find out something about it." So , before we could give it another thought, we had enrolled with a local school and had begun to learn something of the art. The reactions of friends were , as you 'd expect, well mixed , ranging from those who thought it sounded marvellous to those who doubted our sanity!

To be quite honest, when talking to them I don't make too much of the first day, when we were learning ground handling of the inflated canopy - wrestling with a blown-up octopus hovering in the sky immediately overhead. Nor do I dwell at length on the second day, when we climbed that same hill countless times doing top-to-bottoms (bottoms also refers to my early landings, when the ground proved to be a good deal closer to hand than I had first estimated) . These memories soon became insignificant when compared with the sheer ecstasy of the later stages .

One thing I quickly learned was that everyone was very understanding of my bumbling efforts and lack of coordination.

And too , I had to pretend not to notice the fact that the 22 year old Marine was able to get down and up and down and up in the time it took me to struggle part-way up the slope the first time .

Of course , I don't need to tell you all what it is like to be airborne and to feel the sheer delight of flying - you certainly know that for yourselves by now. All that I can usefully say, perhaps, is that at the stage when I've already had a good lifetime of other experiences , the thrill , the delight and the pleasure of finding something completely new and without parallel is, for an old bloke like me , even greater than what the younger ones amongst you can ever sense .

Perhaps, at sixty, I am not the oldest in history to come to the art for the first time. But I know more than ever now that the old saying is true; "if you can do it, you 've got to do it''. If you don't, you 'll never know what you 've missed. My advice to you all is to look again at your aged relatives, grandfathers and grandmothers and tell them that if I can , so can they. This truly is the recipe of utter joy.

Until this week, I had always rated my extra-curricular activities on a sliding scale with rugby (playing in the early days, watching now) at the top , squash and skiing next, and then beer, etc, etc. But now I've really had to re-adjust my values; rugby has lost its predominance, and even beer is threatened by this new love in my life.

Regulated Sites: Packsaddle Mtn. Membership Ct. 51 Newsletter: Yes Dues: $15 1915 E. Katella, Suite "B"; Orange CA. 92667 Contact: Mark G. Misiewicz (714)673-6275 (714) 639-7777 Joe Gluzinski Alt. Contact: (714) 943-8664 Meetings : 3rd thurs 8:00 pm Regulated Sites: none Membership Ct. Newsletter: Yes Dues: $20/month

PO Box 14571; Albuquerque, NM 87191 Bill Lemon (P) Contact: (505) 891-5370 Alt. Contact: Patrick Sheedy (S) (505) 293-6917 Meetings: 1st Thurs 8:00 pm Regulated Sites:Sandia Peak/Crest Membership Ct. Newsletter: Yes Dues: $25/year

80 Fairfield Way; San Francisco, CA 94127 Contact: Chris Northcutt (415)585-9051 Alt. Contact: Dave Sondergeld (415)756-4530 Meetings: 1st Wed 8:00pm Regulated Sites: Fort Funston Mt. Diablo MtTamaipias Membership Ct. Newsletter: Yes Dues:$18/month

PO Box ; 43722 Tucson, AZ 85733 Contact: Jan Ala (602) 327 -97 41 Alt. Contact: Jaque Neff (602) 625-0807 Meetings: 2nd Tuesday Regulated Sites: Miller Cyn Box Cyn.

PO Box 183; Mercer Island; WA 98040 Contact: Gary Paulin (P) (206)236-0075 Alt Contact: Dave Kruglinski (S) (206)323-4382 Meetings: 2nd Tuesday 7pm Regulated Sites:Tiger Mtn. Membership Ct. 11 O Newsletter: Yes Dues: $25 I. $30 F.

3024 NE 18th Ave.; Portland OR. 97212 Contact: David Rogers (503) 282-3938 Alt. Contact: Steve Roti (503) 284-0995 Meetings : 1st Tuesday Regulated Sites: Membership Ct. 78 Newsletter: Yes Dues: $25

PAGE 20 •PARAGLIDING.THE MAGAZINE

Membership Ct. 37 Newsletter: Yes Dues:$15/year

PO Box 791; Jackson Wyoming 83001 Contact: Cam Eddy (P) (307) 733-6571 Alt. Contact: Andy Breffeilh (S) (307) 739-0900 Meetings: Semi-Monthly Regulated Sites: Jackson Hole Grand Targhee Membership Ct. 20 Newsletter: Dues: $25/year

3505 S. Lamar# 1002; Austin.

Texas 78727 Bob Flegal (P) Contact: (512)326-1437 Alt. Contact: Nancy Stanford (S) (512) 794-1160 Meetings: 2nd Thurs.

PO Box 757; Draper Utah 84020 Contact: Ken Hudjorgenson (801) 572-3414 Alt. Contact: Walter Bresnahan Meetings: 3rd Thurs Regulated Sites: Point of Mountain Membership Ct. 180 Newsletter: Yes Dues: $25/year

Denver/Boulder Colorado Contact: Todd Bibler (303) 449-7351 Mike Reeder Alt. Contact: (303) 989-2779 Meetings: Regulated Sites: Lookout Mtn. Membership Ct. 24 Newsletter: Yes Dues:

960 E. Columbia ;Telluride CO 81435 Contact: Hugh Sawyer (303) 728-4772 Alt. Contact: Eric Tromer (303) 728-3744 Meetings: 1st Tues.

Regulated Sites: Gold Hill Launch Membership Ct. 24 Newsletter: No Dues: $25

Rt. 1 Box 274 -C1; Westfield NC 27053 Tommy Thompson Contact: (919) 983-9064 Alt. Contact: Meetings: Weekends on site Regulated Sites: Alligator Rock Membership Ct 15 Newsletter: No Dues: No

PARAGLIDING , THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 21

( L to R) Bob England U.S. #3 Bob Schick U.S. #1 Urs Haari U.S. Open Lee Kaiser U.S. #4 Congratulations !

EDEL RAINBOW top 2 places U.S. Nationals Photo by;Urs Haari

Launch on Walshes- pilots wait for window to open.

Firebird Navajo- Mike Reeder heads for the trees.

Photos 8 .

Y. Fred Sto k

C We//

.

cnarn1> 10n

James

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an u.s.112

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Dave Bridges and Nate Scales dressed for action

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hat wa1snes, . n "C" on 1aunc d pro oesig

The 1993 US Nationals took place at Aspe n Colorado from Sept. 4th thru 11th. The Weather was wet and stormy for the first several days, and very cold.

The first day of competition flying was Sept. 4th . The launch was Ruthies , elevation 10,500'. Open start window .

Turn points were Hurricane Ridge 11,400, Loges Peak 11 ,600 and Aztec 9,600. The goal Marolts Field. The task was flown but the day was invalid , not enough pilots made goal.

Day 2 Ruthies again , this time with a tarp start. Hurricane Ridge 11 ,400 being the first turnpoint , Merry go Round was next, then Aztec again with goal the same as before. Urs Haari won the day, Bob England second , and Lee Kaiser third.

Day 3 Tarp start at Queens, launch at Walshes. The task was a race to goal,Pine Creek Cook House. Urs got up and headed out like a rocket landing 1/2 a mile short. Everyone else took a different route and flew over his head. Jurgen Stock won the day followed by Mitch McAleer, Greg Smith , and Bob Schick.

Day 4 Rained out.

Day 5 Queens again with a tarp start. The course was a Merry go Round to Seivers Mountain 12,800' to Ruthies , to goal at Marolt field . The high points went to Urs, Bob England , Cary Mendes, Bob Schick, and James Grossman.

Day 6 Cats cradle task with Ted Boyse winning the day with a flight of 34 miles, followed by Urs and Lee.

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Day 7 Too windy to fly.

Day 8 Launch at Queens, tarp start, turnpoints Richmond field 11,400' Warren Lakes , Smuggler Mt.9,200, the radio antenna, back to Smuggler, then to goal. This time goal was the North Star Game Reserve . Top points to Jurgen Stock, James Grossman, Urs Haari, and Bob Schick.

ENGLAND -A,1Supp l1 e5. i59·30HO~ PORTUGAL - Esco laNa11ona1aePmpen1e.351+269-lS43 HOLLAND - Paragl1d1ngHollard10-467 -3951 DENMARK -Le,sureAlrspmli4s.22-4J6

NORWAV- Osteras lu l1spon 47-796-N51 SWEDEN -Pe1ersonSpor1AB. 51511121 U.S.A.-Aer1alAc11on. 818·36 7- 72tO CANADA -MullerHangl1d1ng Lld 403'932·6760 VENEZUELA - Aerolight. 242-5\52 COLOMBIA E,tanKoren. 288-8786 BRAZIL - Gl1der008raz11, 021 ·29:2042

JAPAN ·Japanlal,1ouime,7~-25-~612 SOUTH AFRICA On Temkin. !1 ·402-1210 AUSTRALIA -AlpmeParaghd1ng. 57551-iSJ MEXICO Aer0Dmam1ca 525-379-2140 GREEC E - Mr Pla1on'CourouYacalls, 01 -2024·6B4 ISRAEL - .:.gur03"580144

There were 57 pilots entered in the comp etition , and about 200 attending overall. The flying was fun , the atmosphere festive. Some of the top European pilots were sponsored to come over and attend the meet. Th ey included Jurgen Stock, Urs Haari , Silvia Brandstetter and Hans Vande Veld . During the awards ceremonies, Urs Haari, 1st place overall was given a roundtrip plane ticket to Europe.

He handed the ticket to Bob Schick and said "You should fly more in Europe Bob , come fly with me sometime" The camaraderie expressed in that gesture and sentiment is what keeps us in this sport, heart and soul.

MD1AM

.

LIME'93

ASPEN COMPETITORS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57

HAARI , URS SCHICK, BOB GROSSMAN , JIM ENGLAND, BOB KAISER , LEE MUHLICH , HAGEN BOYSE , TED MENDES , CARY STOCK, JURGEN MCALEER.MITCH AMY , scan SMITH , GREG BRANDSTETIER, S COHN, JOSH BOUCHARD, JOHN WALLENDA, PETER HOISINGTON , ZAC SANTACROCE, CHRIS BIBLER, TODD BAIER, KEN BRIDGES , DAVID SAXBY.DON STEVENSON . GARRY VANDEVELDE, HANS BARTON , TONY SMITH , CHUCK KELLEY , GREG SCHOLES, KEVIN FERGUSON . MARK HANKINS, DAVE REEDER , MIKE HAJEK, PATRICK FERGUSON , PAUL KLOEPFER , PETER HARRIS, RIC LAWLEY, FRED HOLMES, PHIL SEAY, JERRY BELLIK, MIKE ALA, JAN GORDON BILL SMITH RALPH GARNER CHUCK BOONIN ELIZABETH BLACHLY CHRIS SCALES NATE GROSSMAN DANA GLUZINSKI JOE AMY STEVE ROGERS SHARRELL CLARK DAVID LAURENCE BILL WHITE DIXON HANRAHAN MIKE PHILLIPS STEVE YOUNGSTROM T R HANNAH BOB

Rainbow Rainbow Supra Supra Supra UP Katana Rave -

C 26 Rainbow Rave Rainbow Nova C 25 Atix Nova C 25 FR Navajo Atix Rainbow C 25 C 23 Rainbow FR Rainbow C23 Katan a Navajo Supra Navajo

Navajo

Space Inferno -

Rainbow Jive 82

-

-Sirrocco -

Navajo

-

-

-

4,420 4,257 4,130 3,516 3,419 3,008 2,797 2,776 2,761 2,737 2,708 2,681 2,552 2,522 2,298 2,158 2,025 1,966 1,788 1,774 1,557 1,509 1,498 1,493 1,281 1,134 1,098 1,062 1,002 954 799 754 702 676 663 631 617 613 596 548 427 395 353 350 296 256 235 165 124 73 73 73 64 0 0 0 0

9!!l\

~IREBIRD'

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(303) 440-0803

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 25

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Ball has been making soaring instruments for foot launched pilots since .. ... They are continuously striving to improve the technology in flight computers. Every flight Deck is backed up with Ball' s standard one year warranty. The Boulder Colorado factory offers rel iable and quick service for every need.

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PAGE 26 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Winching high perfonnance paragliders using a Koch type static winch tatic winching(as well as other forms of winching) is becoming an increasingly popular method of getting airborne for paraglider pilots - at last they are realizing that winching is one perfect way to get yourself aloft and exploit thermals (just look at the recent record results from South Africa).

Of course, the winching of paragliders , both round and wing type has been going on quite successfully for years , but with the so-called 'performance' paragliders coming onto the tow scene , the need for more gentle towing has become apparent. Hang glider and parascender pilots (and indeed sailplane pilots) have enjoyed the privileges of being towed aloft for years, and by adopting some of the methods from paragliding tow groups and some of the methods from hang glider and sailplane towing, we can safely tow any airworthy canopy aloft. I hope this article may encourage some towbased groups who are (quite rightly) wary of towing highperformance canopies to give it a go, and also persuade some hill-based pilots to have a go at winching . It's fun!

S

Equipment and personnel

At the winch end, there is obviously a winch and a winch operator (winch-person). The winch operator can increase and decrease the tow force with a throttle , start or stop the tow force by engaging or disengaging a clutch , or, in emergencies , guillotine the tow line at the winch end. The winch operator may be in radio contact with the launch end , and in visual contact as well. The line connecting you to the winch drum must incorporate a weak link, which will break if the tension on the line becomes too great for your aircraft to safely take , and also a drogue parachute which stops the line from springing away at a great velocity when you release, and also marks where the end of the line falls.

At the launch end , a launch marshal is in charge. All radio signals to the winch-person are relayed by the launch marshal , after confirmation from the pilot. If visual signals are being used , these will be relayed by a signaling bat , which is shaped like a large brightly-colored lollipop.

Before attempting any kind of tow launch , make sure that you are absolutely familiar with the release system you are using.

Your preparation for a tow launch is exactly the same as it would be for foot launching from a hill - all the checks on lines, quick-links, etc. must be performed properly , and the canopy laid out appropriately. Never be connected to a tow line until the launch marshal authorizes you to do so. Never connect two pilots to both lines of the Koch winch at once.

(The Koch has two drums, which could be operated simultaneously by accident.)

When all the checks have been completed, including a check of the release system, your readiness for tow will be communicated to the winch-person by the spoken signal "ALL CHECKS COMPLETE ". At this time the winch-person will be made aware of the pilot's name , the canopy to be flown and which of the two lines will be used, as well as any other information - for example, if this is the pilot's first tow, etc. The next stage - to take up the slack in the line - is entirely in the hands of the pilot. Once the winch has been readied by "ALL CHECKS COMPLETE" , the winch-person will await the next signal before doing anything. When the flier is ready to take off, he or she should lean back slightly , ready to resist the initial gentle pull , and then clearly ask the launch marshal to "TAKE UP SLACK". This signal will be passed on to the winch-person by both a spoken (via radio) and visual signal where possible. The spoken signal is simply "TAKE UP SLACK" (sometimes this is abbreviated to simply "TAKE UP") . The visual signal is the swinging from left to right, underhand , of the signaling bat (fig 1a). The winch-person will engage the clutch , and the slack will gently be taken out of the line. Initially, you resist this gentle pull , then make a good forward inflation in the direction of the tow force - i.e. down the line.

After you have checked your canopy (as usual), and you are happy to proceed with launching , you shout , "ALL OUT" and repeat this command until you are airborne. The launch marshal will relay this signal to the winchperson , and the tow force will be followed. The visual signal is an overhead left-to-right waving of the signaling bat (fig lb), which continues until the pilot is airborne. As the force increases, you must run forward (as in a normal launch) and apply a small amount of symmetrical brake (min. sink-ish) , and you will take off. If, at any time , the launch marshal needs to stop the tow, for whatever reason , he will repeat "STOP STOP - STOP" via radio , and signal with the bat held stationary overhead (Fig le).

Launching and Launch Signals Signals while on tow (b}

fig 1 (a}

(c)

..•!I "TAKE UP SLACK"

"ALL OUT"

"STOP"

While you are connected to the line during tow , you can signal the winch-person using visual signals to either increase or decrease the tow force. It is worth remembering that the winch-person will always respond to a request for less power, but will not necessarily respond to increase immediately The spoken signal given by the launch marshal is "ALL OUT - ALL OUT - ALL OUT" repeated until the signal is a request for more power - there may be something wrong. The signal for more power is to raise and lower your elbows out to the side (make sure you do not move your hands up and down and disturb your brake position) in a

PARAGLIDING , THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 27

LESS POWER

LESS POWER

MORE POWER

INTEND TO RELEASE

'funky-chicken ' type motion (fig 2a). The signal for "LESS POWER PLEASE " is to open and close your legs in big movements (fig 2b).

The signal for "LESS POWER PLEASE,INTEND TO RELEASE" is to open your legs wide and keep them open unti! the winch-person has responded (fig 2c) . After you have given the signal to release , wait for the force to decrease before you release - this is important. You will , however, need to release as soon as the tow force has decreased, in order to prevent the drogue 'chute from inflating as the line goes slack. (_ _ _

(b)

i,_._:

fig 3 {a)

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PREPARED FOR LAUNCH ON TOW - GOOD!

Winch

ON TOW • BAD!

Staying on line Probably the most important th ing about being towed is keeping your canopy 'on line'. This means constantly checking your canopy using the 'nodding dog' method - in other words, looking up to see that your canopy is symmetrical to your body and level compared to the horizon , and then looking down to see that the wing and your body are at 90 degrees to the line . YOU MUST BE FL YING IN THE DIRECTION OF THE TOW FORCE - DOWN THE LINE , REGARDLESS OF ANY DRIFTING RELATIVE TO THE GROUND. The danger with flying 'off line' is that the direction that your canopy flies in will not be the direction of the tow force .

This is shown in figu re 3, which. shows a canopy before take-off (a) , a canopy during tow which is on line (b), and a canopy on tow which is off line (c). Being off line means that, as the tow force continues , you will fly further and further off line until a Rotation (known to hang glider pilots as a lock-out) results . In an extreme case of rotation , the forces involved may become so great that you will be unable to steer back on line. A rotation under tension can be a disaster an alert winch-person will be able to recognize the onset of a serious rotation before it happens and decrease the tow

PAGE 28 • PARAGLIDING , THE MAGAZINE

)

Exact 90' ..tngle

~tn~Q~ a between the

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between the canopy and the line

Ci ne>p)' a nd th e line Winch

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force, which should act as a signal to the flier that something is wrong . If the situation continues, the winchperson can disengage the clutch , thus allowing the pilot to turn quite a long way off line without a force pulling toward the winch. As a last resort, or in an emergency, the winch-person can guillotine the line from the winch end. As well as being costly and time consuming , guillotining can create its own problems this procedure could at worst stall or collapse the canopy as the sudden release of tension is transmitted up the line to the wing . At best, it still leaves the pilot trailing a considerable amount of line which is hanging below him this must be released.

RIGt-m

WRONG !

PILOT FLIES DOWN THE LINE

PILOT IS TURNING OFF LINE· TO HER RIGHT

If it is not possible to release , it is imperative that the pilot remains over a clear space and does not allow the trailing line to cross any obstacles - such as fences - on which it may snag with the attendant danger of 'anchoring ' the canopy. A good way to avoid getting into a rotation situation is to try and picture what the winch-person sees from his end, as shown here.

Wind direction changes with height The winch will normally be set up as in figure 3a and 5a; in other words , the wind direction on the ground will be blowing from the winch to the launch area, meaning that take-off will be conventional and into wind ; th13 initial tow force will be pulling you directly into wind . The problem occurs when wind direction changes with height, as it often does.

PREPAREDTOLAUNCH ON TOW- GOOD! ON TOW · BAD! As long as you keep your canopy steered 'down the line', as shown in figure 5b, you are OK and the tow can continue .

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

The problem occurs when wind direction changes with height and the pilot is still flying in the into-wind direction that he experienced at ground level. This is a common occurrence, possibly because many pilots want to continue flying in the direction of the 'runway' - the path on the ground which runs between the take-off area and the winch.

However it may simply be that the pilot is not checking his canopy/line relationship often enough (nodding dog).

t,;,

·:·.•

The winch-person will not give power until you get back on line. Often, pilots will frantically signal for more power when they are actually drifting off line. Remember that the winch-person will always respond to 'LESS POWER PLEASE', or 'I INTEND TO RELEASE' but will not necessarily respond to 'MORE POWER PLEASE'.

....

Releasing ~\t1ep a low

ground spe:ed

The sequence and method of release should be as follows: 1. Signal for release and wait for the tow force to decrease (see fig. 2c).

2. Gently raise both hands to 'brakes off' position.

3. Let go of the brake with the appropriate hand, move your hand to the release and pull it.

4. Return your hand to the brake and return to the normal flying position.

5. Check that the line/drogue has fallen away. Kick at your release system if it is stuck.

6. You can close your legs now.

7. Fly as normal - with good flight planning!

{h

laiidin,g

FLIGHT PLAN A ,\ goo~ flight pl,,n 10 folio-, ~,1~ II yoll ate e,pe.ri<,ic<>(I

Flight planning Flight planning from a tow launch is often easier than from a hill - after all, you run little risk of hitting a hill if you do a 180 turn, for example. However, airspeed/ground speed/wind speed obviously still exist, and it is vital that you understand these concepts completely. You should quickly be able to see how the simplified flight plan of 'S-turns' shown in Fig. 6a is preferable to a potentially low 360° turn in Fig. 6b. As you become more and more competent at winching, you will be able to tow higher, and on a thermic day, the open expanses of 'flatland' flying could give you the confidence to get away crosscountry, which can sometimes be daunting on busy hills. If you haven't tried winching - get yourself along to an established group and give it a go!

.... .•

lan(1jn9

t~~:

FLIGHT PLAN A A good tlig'ht pl.;in tor fl[er.; •1i.•itr.J e.:,.:pe·r1enc@ and hieght,

Gary Cook, Sky Systems 1993

Windspeed Indicator ...... $69.95 add $3 s&h Airspeed Indicator ........ $134.95 add $3 s&h Flight suit ...................... $179.95 Specify size & color. Male zip? add $8 s&h ro order, send check or M.O. to:

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• 2 Full Double Zips • Breathable • Waterproof • 3 Velcro pockets • Vario strap • Elastic cuffs • Choice of colors (body): Red, Black, Royal blue, Light blue, Purple • Black Accent: arms, ONLy neck, chest pocket $ • Sizes: S/M/L/XL • With or w/o male zip • Made in USA. Allow 4-6 wks.

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s599s PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 29

P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

PIIRAGllDING flATINGS GIVIEN IN JUL V (Name: City, State; Instructor name)

Region 7 LANGENFELD, LYNN: Madison, WI; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond WENIGER, MARC: Cary, IL; G. Banks/Parasoft PG Region 8 CAUCHY, NICOLAS: Somerville, MA: D. Frank/Adventure Center

CLI\SSI

Region 1 DUMAS, MARC: Fairbank, AK; B. Hamler/Golden Eagle PG GRABER, BROCK: Tacoma, WA; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring Center GRABER, 8HIAN: Tacoma, WA C. Santacroce/UP Soaring Center HENDRICKSON, DAVID: Anchorage, AK; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports MELBY, RICK: Bonderant, WY; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond SAURMAN, DAVID: Jackson, WY; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond SUBAK, STcPHANIE: Seattle, WA; M. Eberle/North Amer. PG PG WARREN, ROY: Oregon; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports WILLIAMS, 111CK: Salem, OR; D. Raybourn/HG PG School of OR Region 2 BARRAGER, STEPHEN: Los Altos Hills, CA; S. Amy/Pro rlight BINGHAM, DAVID: San Jose, CA; C. Bolling/Airtime of SF BORDA, CHARLES: Bella Vista, CA; P. Blackburn/Ultimate High PG COLITELIER, SOPHIE: San Francisco, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell DE BRUIN, JOHN: Santa Barbara, CA; K. DeRussy/HG Emporium DILLETT, BRIDGITTE: So Lake Tahoe, CA; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adv DRAK~. COLIN: San Francisco, CA; J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF FAIR, GORDON: San Francisco, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell GIBASSIER, JEAN-LUC: Truckee, CA; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports HUFFINGTON. ANNE: Fairfax, CA; N.J. Saunders/Chandelier of SF MELZ, ACHIM: Northshore, CA; K. Fiebig/Airtime of SF PEASE, STEVEN: Redwood City, CA; S. Amy/Pro-Flight PG REJAMANEK, HONZA: Davis, CA; J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF TOLHUHST, ALAN: So Lake Tahoe, CA; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adv UNDEHWOOD, DONALD: Arroyo Grande, CA; M Salvernini/Airtek WEISENBLOOM, HAROLD: Palo Alto, CA; J. Lucar/Glidell WONG, flEN: San Francisco, CA:, J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF Region 3 CHAFFIN, CHRIS: El Cajon, CA L. LoveiTorrey ~p CHOKSEY. PRASHANT: Villa Park, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure COLLINS, JOHN: San Diego, CA; M. Salvemini/Airtek rlSTAROL, OSCAR: Sherman Oaks, CA; T. 8oyse/LA Paragliding HOFFMAN, BRET: San Diego, CA; F. Lawley/Accelerated Flight Systems HUDGINS, DARREN: Corona, CA; M. WrighVWright Flight MACCREAIJY, MARSHALL: Pasedena, CA; B. England/Aerial Action MADDOX, JAMES: Santa Barbara, CA; K. DeRussy/HG Emporium ONATE, SAHAH: San Diego, CA; I'. Lawley/Accelerated Flight Sys QUACKENBUSH, DONALD: Sylmar, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG QUIAT, 8ARRY: No Hollywood, CA; T. Boyse/LA Paragliding RILEY, TIMOTHY: Camarillo, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG SCHOCH, GARY: Oceanside, CA; F. Lawley/Accelerated Flight Systems STEINHEIMER, GEORGE: Pomona, CA; C. Mendes/Compact Wings STUBBS, JILL: Santa Barbara, CA; K. DeRussy/HG Emporium SYMPSON, ROBERT: Moreno Valley, CA; M. Wright WALKcR, DAVID: Santa Rosa, CA; J. Greqer Region 4 BONDY, RICHARD: Westminster, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft DOWELL, Wll.l lAM: Ogden. UT; F. Stockwell/Above & Beyond HALL, MADISON: Denver, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PG HOWARD, BILL: Kearney, NE; D. Frank/Adventure Center IKFDA, KEIKI: Sandy, UT; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond JONES. W.MICHAEL: Golden, CO; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adv KENDALL, MESSMORE: Telluride, CO; K. Hudon1orgensen/Above & Beyond KF.NWORTHY, ANTHONY: Albuquerque, NM; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond KINGSLEY, DUANE: Albuquerque, NM; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond LANC:, CHRIS: Aspen, CO; J. Stenstadvold/Aspen PG LANGE, CHADWICK: Aspen, CO; J. StenstadvoldlAspen PG MANNINO, DEBORAH: Vail, CO; J. Stenstadvold MANNINO, GREG: Vari, CO; J. Stenstadvold MANNION, CHRIS: Denver, CO; J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF MEYERS, DEVON: Aspen, CO; D. Jackson/Aspen Paragliding OWENS, TED: Corrales, NM; T. Boyse/LA Paragliding PERKINS, TYLER: Boulder, CO; C. Toepel/Colorado PG SL UTZ, ROB: l oveland. CO; C. Toepel/Colorado Paragliding SMITH, MIKE: Arvada, CO; D. Frank/Adventure Center SMITH, JcFF: Crested Butte, CO; R. Wardlow SPACKMAN, RICHARD: Fnglewood, CO; K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & 8eyond TATE, GRADY: Sedona AZ; D. White/Thermax VERNAY, DANIEL: Glenwood Spgs, CO; D. Jackson/Aspen Paragliding YOUNG, S. TYLER: floulder, CO; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adv Region 5 GRAHAM, ROBERT: Jackson, WY; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond LEMLEY, JOHN: Boise, ID; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring Center WOLLING, MARK: Wilson. WY; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond

PAGE 30 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

R<>gion 9 MEINTZSCHEL, MICHAEL: Annandale, VA; A. Chuculate/Kitty Hawk Kites Region rn CORDIDO, HERMINIO: Miami, FL. G. Banks/Parasoft FERNANDEZ, MICHAEL: Wendell, NC; A. Chuculate/Kitty Hawk Kites SCHILDT, MIKE: North Bend, WA; Eberle No. Am. PG UNGEWITTER, FREDicRICK: Daytona Bch, FL; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond Region 11 Bf,OWN, NICHOL: Kileen, TX; D. Whaley/Apline World A ventures Region 12 SKARIMBAS, JON: Gt. Barrington, MA; P. Renaudin CLIISSII

Region 1 EDDY, CAMERON: Jackson, WY; D. Jackson/Aspen PG MASUDA, DAVID: Sandpoint, ID;M. Chirico/Parapente NANCc, ANCIL: Portland, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports PAVELIC, TINA: Portland, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports REAGAN, PETER: Portland, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports TELEP, MARK: fhe Dalles, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports Region 2 COUTELIE11, JEAN-PIERRE: San rrancisco, CA; J. l.ucas/Glidell DEAN, JEFF: Fallon, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports FREI, URS: Berkeley, CA; P. Blackburn/Ultimate High PG NORTHCUTT, CHRIS: San Franc'rsco, CA; T. Sw'rtzer/Skyt1mes PG SMITH, RICHARD: La Habra, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkres Region 3 DIBELLA, GEOFFREY: Lancaster, CA; T. Boyse/LA PG EBERLE, RETO: Encino, CA; r. Boyse/L.A. PG ELIASON, JIM: Santa Barbara, CA; K. DeRussy/HG Emporium ELIASON, ERIC: Santa Barbara, CA; K. DeRussy/HG emporium JONES, MARTIN: Carlsbad, CA; F. Lawley/Accelerated Flt Systems LEVENTHAL, ROBERT: Los Angeles, CA; T. Boyse/LA PG McCOY, PAUL: La Jolla, CA; M. Salvemini/Airtek PG PECHMAN, CORNE:l.lE: Hawthorne, CA; T. Boyse/LA Paragliding REEVES, GEORGE: Sunland, CA; T. Boyse/LA Paragliding ROY, STEVcN: Garden Grove, CA; K. Baier Airjunkies STEINMETZ. DIC:TER: San Diego, CA; M. Salvemini/Airtek PG Region 4 HASE, DOUGLAS: Steamboat Springs, CO: D. Jackson/Aspen PG HECKENDORF, JOHN: Kirkland, WA; S. Amy/Pro Flight KOCUREK, RICHARD: Gunnison, CO; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adventures MACLOWRY, SCOTT: Telluride, CO; D. White/Thermax PG SEAY, GERALD: Aspen, CO; D. Jackson/Aspen PG SHARP, TERRY: Longmont, CO; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adventures STOLDE, DIDIER: Phoenix, AZ; D. Whrte/Thermax PG TAYLOR, JOHN: Glendale, AZ; D. White/fhermax PG WALDECK, STFVl::N: Aspen, CO; J. Stenstevold/Aspen PG YOUNGSTROM, T.R .. Telluride, CO; D. Whitelrhermax PG Region 7 FIFE:H, BILL: Traverse City, Ml; G. Smith/S.V PG Region 10 LARRISON. JACK: Indian 11ocks, FL; J. Stenstadvold Region 11 FULLER, DENNIS: Dallas, TX; N. Stanford/HIii Country PG Region 12 WHITTEMORE, BRADLEY: Mahwah, NJ; P. Renaudrn/GMI PG CLASS Ill Region 1 ARENDS, KEV: Bend, OR; C. Stockwell EBERLE, MIKE: Ellensburg, WA; C. Stockwell POHL, PHIL: Bend, OR Region 2 AMY. SCUTT· Pacifica, CA: [. Pitman Region 4 WHITE, DIXON: Flagstaff, AZ; G. Smith

P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX Region 6 HELMS. JEFF: Columbus, NE; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adventures

FOREIGN RATINGS

Class I CAKL, PAUL: Calgary, Alberta;K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond DAVID, CATHY-ANNE: Canmore, AB Canada; G. Derouin/Rocky Mtn. FORD, DONNA: Calgary, Alberta; K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond HANNA, KELLY: Calgary, Alberta; C. Santacroce HOLSWORTH, TREVOR: Nelson, BC; G. Derovin/Rocky Mtn. PG MCISAAC, JOHN: Canmore, AB Canada; G. Derouin/Rocky Mtn.

Class II FORD, RON: Calgary, Alberta; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond GOUDREAU, ISABELLE: Montreal, Quebec; J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF GRAF, PETER: Vancouver, BC; J. Yates/Mascalito Adventures HERDERSON, GARTH: Banff, Alberta; G. Derovin/Rocky Min. PG McMARTIN, BRUCE: Victoria, BC; M. Chirico/Parapente USA MEUNER, ERIC: Montreal, Quebec; J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF POTTER, MIKE: Canmore, Alberta; G. Derovin/Rocky Mtn. PG Class Ill DE JONG, MAXIM: Sardis, BC; J. Yates/Mescalito Adventures

PARAGLIDING RATINGS GIVEN IN AUGUST (Name: City, State; Instructor name) CLASS Re!Jion 1 BAND, ANNE-LOUISE: Wisen, WY; K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond MILLS, MATTHEW: Vaughn, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG OLSON, KRIS: Issaquah, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG ROMATOWSKI, RICK: Redmond, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG SORENSEN, JOHN: Vancouver, WA; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports TWITCHELL, OWEN: Portland, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports WANLESS, JAMES: Tigard, OR; D. Raybourn/ HG PG School of Oregon YVERNAULT, NICK: Jackson, WY; C. Santacroce/UP Soarinq Region 2 DONALDSON, JIM: Mountain View, CA; T. Switzer/Sky Times DWYER, FRED: Larkspur, CA; K. Fiebig/Airtime of SF GARCHAR, GARY: Campbell, CA; J. Greger/Airtime of SF KUCER, ROBERT: Livermore, CA; G. Banks/Parasoft LARSEN, ALLEN: CA; A. Whitehill/Chandelle LEHMAN, THOMAS: Oakland, CA; N. Saunders/Chandelle OWENS, DORMAN MICHAEL: Las Vegas, NV; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring PATMONT, GOBE: Pleasanton, CA; D. Saxby

Region 8 DUNBAR, HARLAN: Bucksport, ME; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond

Region 10 HUNT, BRUCE: Tampa, FL; K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond

Region 11 BRISTOL, JOHN: Ft. Worth, TX; J. Stevstadvold/Aspen PG MIIKKULAINEN, RISTO: Austin, TX; D. Saxby/Airtime of SF

CLASS II

Region 1 BAILEY, STEVE: Redmond, WA; M. Chirico/Parapente BOONIN, ELISABETH: Portland, OR; P. Sugrue/British School PG CRABTREE, DELVIN: Lynden, WA; J. Yates/Mescalito PG FRENCH, ROBERT: Anchorage, AK; B. Hamler/Golden Eagle PG HECKLER, MARK: Issaquah, WA; M. Chirico/Parapente KREINHEDER, JACK: Juneau, AK; B. Halmer/Golden Eagle PG MILLER ONKEN, ANDREA: Missoula, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG PINDAR, LARRY: Gresham, OR; E. Pitman/Fly America SWANSON, PETER: Missoula, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG

Region 2 BENOIT, DICK: Reno, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports HAMILTON, PAUL: Reno, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports RAINES, TERRY: Sparks, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports SASAKI, ANN: Pacifica, CA; B. Porter/Bright Star HG STARK, DICK: Los Altos Hills, CA; G. Pujol/A Place of Wings THOMPSON, RONALD: Pacifica, CA; S. Amy/Pro-Flight

Region 3 HOFFMAN, BRET: San Diego, CA; F. Lawley/Accelerated Flight TRUAX, TOM: Camarrillo, CA; R. Liggett/Topa Topa PG

Region 4 EICHHOLZ, GERALD: Boulder, CO: G. Banks/Parasoft HALL, CINDY: Snowmass, CO; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring LOVING, GRAHAM: Boulder, CO; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring VANERP-MATYK, CHRISTINE: Vail, CA; C. Stockwell/Above & Beyond WILK, STEVEN: Englewood, CO; C. Toepel

Region 10 PROANO, PEDRO: Miami, FL; J. Stenstadvold/Asprin PG

CLASS Ill

Regton 3 ASPLUND, SHARI: San Gabriel, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG ASPLUND, NILS: San Gabriel, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG BARBER JR, JOHN: Simi Valley, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG ELISON, LYNN: Santa Barbara, CA; K. deRussy/HG Emporium FLOYD, KIM: Los Angeles, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG NIELSEN, TAYLOR: Redondo Beach, CA; C. Mendes/Compact Wings PETERSON, DEAN: Santa Maria, CA; K. deRussy/HG Emporium ROBERTS, DWIGHT: Sylmar, CA; M. Haley/Airplay PG TRYON, MIKE: San Diego, CA; M. Salvemini/Airtek PG

Region 2 CLARK, DAVID: Walnut Creek, CA; J. Yates duBOIS, LUC: San Francisco, CA; J. Yates GREGER, JOEL: Concord, CA; J. Greenbaum SAXBY, DON: Piedmont, CA; J. Yates STERNIK, GREG: Solinas, CA; J. Yates

Region 4 ABBEY, CRAIG: Tucson, AZ; J. Ala/Alazzurra BROWN, J.C.: Albuquerque, NM; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring CHRISTENSEN, SCOTT: Farmington, UT; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring GABEL, SONJA: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft JOHANSEN, MARTIN: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft KIRK, KEVIN: Socorro. NM; G. Brightbill/Enchantment PG MAINERO, ALAN: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft MAYFORTH, KARL: Albuquerque, NM; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring McCREARY, TOM: Salt Lake City, UT; K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond MEAGER, BEN: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft MESSICK, MICHAEL: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft MOSES, WESTON: Boulder, CO; D. Whaley/Alpine World Adventures NEUMAN, BOB: Denver, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft NICOLET, GLEN: Albuquerque, NM; K. Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond PHILLIPS, STEVEN: Golden, CO; S. Berk/Parasoft POLAND, RICHARD: Aspen, CA; J. Stenstadvold/Aspen PG ROSINSKI, MARY: Phoenix, AZ; J. Stenstavold/Aspen PG VANDERMEER, RICK: Boulder, CO; C. Toepel/Colorado WALKER, SAM: Pleasant Grove, UT; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring WALKER, CLINT: Pleasant Grove, UT; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring WHITE, HUGH: Aspen, CO; D. Jackson/Aspen PG

KARL, DAVE: Intervals, NH; R. Leonard Adventure Sports

Region 4 BELCOURT, BILL: Salt Lake City, UT; C. Stockwell Above &Beyond

Region 8

Reg!oni 5 EVANS, LORIANN: Missoula, MT: D. Covington/Big Sky PG LEPINSKY, DONALD: Missoula, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG

TANDEM ONE RATINGS JAMES GROSSMAN TANDEM TWO RATINGS KORY BRANHAM TANDEM INSTRUCTOR JODY LUCAS FOREIGN RATINGS Class I BALLINGER, VOLKER: Drose, Germany; A. Chuculate/Kitty Hawk Kites BONNIN, JACQUES: Maple Ridge, B.C.; J. Yates/Mescalito PG HANSEN, KNUT: Karlstrake, Germany: J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF HIRONORI, YAMAMOTO: Watarai-Gun, Japan; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring LLEWELLYN, NOEL: Vancouver, B.C.; J. Yates/Mescalito MACAULEY, PETER: Auckland, New Zealand; K. Hudonjorgensen/Abv & Bynd SCHUETZ, EDDY: Maple River, B.C.; J. Yates TOMOKO, TSURUTA: Aichi, Japan; C. Santacroce/UP Soaring WEVERINK, PAUL: Port Moody, B.C.; J. Yates/Mescalito PG Class II HOLMES, DEREK: Calgary, Alberta; G. Derovin/Rocky Mtn. PG ROHRER, PETER: Bern, Switzerland; J. Greenbaum/Airtime of SF

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 31

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P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

ACCIDENT REPORTS 1 JANUARY THROUGH 30 JUNE, 1993 Dr, Fred Moy, Accident Review Chairman, Paragliding Committee United Stales Hang Gliding Association August 15, 1993.

All reports medically reviewed independently by Dr. David Millward, Westchester Country Center, Valhalla, New York ,Jmrnmy 11, i993 A forty year old male unrated novice pilot was "kiting" his canopy by holding carabiners without being properly attached to his harness. Unintentionally lifted forty feet vertically where his grip failed. Upon impact he suffered two broken arms, a broken leg, fractured pelvis and major brain damage including paraylsis and speech impairment. Hospitalized and still in rehabilitation therapy (June 1993).

ANALYSIS (1) Unsafe wind conditions (2) Pilot not hooked into harness (3) Poor Judgment in not releasing earlier when situation initially deteriorated (4) No helmet worn (5) Unknown if PLF was attempted or even appropriate.

January 28, 1993 A forty year old male competition pilot and instructor (class Ill) suffered face and neck abrasions requiring eighteen stitches owing to collapse immediately after launch at 10-15 feet above ground.

ANAL VSIS (1) Launched in strong turbulent conditions (2) Distracted by multiple responsibilities at launch site (3) Pilot's usual competition paraglider replaced by beginning model but pilot continued input appropriate to competition glider leading to excessive corrective action exacerbating turbulence problem.

March 6, 1993 A thirty-four year old male class I pilot attempted reverse launch and turned the wrong direction to launch. Upon correcting himself the pilot lost control of left brake handle while attempting to launch and proceeded to impact shortly after launch resulting to extensive abrasion to knee requiring eighteen stitches, ANAL VSIS (1) Pilot attributes loss of left brake control to his reverse technique whereby he fully released brakes while turning to face downhill before proceeding to accelerate into his launch (2) Wear appropriate clothing to protect against abrasions/cuts

March 19 1993 A twenty-seven year old class II pilot reverse launched into turbulent conditions experiencing a minor tip collapse after 3-5 minutes of flight. Owing to slow response in correcting, the glider turned toward more turbulent air behind launch at which point 50% collapse occurred in a rotor behind launch, While attempting to correct collapse the glider lost 100 feet of altitude and pilot crashed into hill with the glider completely reinflating Just prior to collapse. Pilot sustained a fractured arm, bruised kidney and torn back muscles requiring overnight care in a local hospital following helicopter evacuation to trauma center.

ANAL VSIS (1) Pilot utilized rigid back support which may have minimized other damage (2) Pilot attributed lack of knowledge/experience as contributory (3) Pilot was first and only pilot to launch at the site (4) Pilot indicated that conditions were too turbulent for safe flying March 20, 1993 A class I male pilot in his late twenties launched into early afternoon winds between twenty and thirty mph. The visiting pilot had been warned against flying by locals and was the only paraglider on the hill. At launch (10-20 mph winds) tho pilot successfully executed and proceeded away from the hill encountering strong winds at altitude which he could not penetrate. Blown steadily backward he crashed into the side of the canyon loosing consciousness . Radio communication was later established once the pilot retained consciousness followed by stabilization by EMT's and helicopter evacuation to a hospital where overnight observation was necessary. Injuries included two broken ankles, broken heel, one crushed lumbar vertebrae with recoverable paralysis.

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PAGE 32 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

ANAL VSIS (1) Local advice where given was not acted upon (2) Pilot carried radio which facilitated rescue (3) Alternate landing procedure could have been considered.

March 2.111, 1993 A Thirty-five year old male class I (100 flights, 18 hours, 1 year) launched in mildly turbulent conditions (described as "squirrely'' conditions) for demonstration flight of new intermediate glider, experiencing extensive wing collapse at 30-50 feet above ground. Unable to deploy reserve pilot landed on his back. Stellate fracture with no neurologic consequences, two fractured teeth, tongue lacerations, sternal contusion and minor concussion without loss of consciousness.

ANAL VSIS (1) Back support would be advisable (2) face (mandibular) guard led to sternal injury owing to impact of shield on chest (3) Taking risk by "scratching" hill on a new paraglider in effort to extend twenty-five minute flight.

April 1, 1993 A twenty-two year old student under instruction (radio contact) launched his second flight of the day during mid day with some unstable thermal activity during the period prior to launch. Otherwise conditions not extreme. At 300 feet over launch with no brakes applied the glider surged and returned, followed by a left spin of the glider and then the lines went slack with the pilot projected into the center of the canopy at which point the pilot was not visible.

The pilot was not killed at impact but died a short time later.

ANAL VSIS (1) Were circumstances appropriate for a student pilot? (2) Instructor stated that student might have attempted to "over control" the glider in turbulence (3) Student had extensive ground school and discussion of turbulence previously (4) Student drove all night to get to class (5) Back protection was in place (6) A manufacturer's representative examined the paragider and indicated no compromise in the integrity of the equipment.

April 19, 1993 A thirty-six year old male instructor experienced a major asymmetric wing collapse while ridge soaring, Winds were 12 mph with gusts to 16 mph.

Unable to bring glider under control the pilot spun into hill. Pilot drove himself to hospital for x-rays and consultation with no serious medical consequences.

ANAL VSIS (1) Pilot utilized rigid back support (2) Pilot cited inability to effect rapid weight shift as contributory to lack of control (3) Pilot had shifted from his usual intermediate glider to a high performance glider April W, 1993 A forty-four year old class II pilot with two years of mountain thermal flying attempted to untangle his paraglider which was in a "ball" while laying out for launch. While attempting to untwist a line, inadvertent pressure was put on some of the lines and the canopy inflated. With full twists in risers, brakes still snapped to riser and hands not on either brakes or risers, the pilot was dragged sideways and deposited in a ditch abruptly landing on both feet.

Determined to launch, the pilot proceeded to reposition himself and successfully reverse launched, eventually top landing. X-ray examination later revealed four fractures of the metatarsal bones, fractures of the cuboid bone and several other fractures along with several small chips from the first metatarsal. Later discovered knee and ankle ligaments along with left lateral meniscus torn. No surgery but plaster cast necessary.

ANAL VSIS (1) A more conservative approach to layout at launch, perhaps segregating layout and untangling into two separate procedures (2) More suitable footwear would have given support and possibly more control (3) Pilot attributed lack of experience in this type of site (4) Pilot immediately launched again masking , pain and swelling which developed during flight presenting a compromised landing situation - a delay in launch to assess extent of damage would have been prudent (5) Adrenaline and enthusiasm can mask serious medical problems temporarily.

April 211, 19!!3 A thirty-eight year old male class 11 pilot with extensive experience launched into turbulent conditions very early in an apparent upslope cycle.

Clearly unstable conditions with changing wind direction judged by three other experienced pilots to be unsuitable for flying. After erratic run pattern at launch pilot pendalumed out to near vertical eventually striking ground on left side resulting in severe fracture of left humerus requiring surgery ANAL VSIS (1) Unstable, changing wind direction with vigorous dust devils going through launch area (2) Other experienced pilots resolutely declined to fly in the prevailing conditions (3) Pilot may have been fooled by launching into first suggestion of upslope cycle which turned out to be a downslope cycle

P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

1,1993 twenty-seven year old female class II pilot (over 200 flights) was struck from the rear by a novice hang gliding pilot under instruction in heavy traffic.

Both remained entangled from 300 to 50 feet over ground where they separated. Upon impact she suffered a bruised lung and spleen requiring overnight hospitalization but no invasive procedures. Not fatal.

ANAL VSIS (1) Traffic excessive for beginner hang gliding pilot to be under instruction in crowded air space (2) She was unable to deploy reserve-multiple attempts-owing to failure of velcro attachment to release (3) Back protection was not in place.

2, 1993 forty year old male class II pilot with extensive air time launched into strong mid-day thermal cycles (2-20 mph). Other pilots indicated excessive conditions. Following launch pilot experienced full frontal collapse and spun into hill from 60 feet above ground. Impact resulted in bruised rib cage and hairline fractures in vertebrae requiring hospital stay.

ANAL VSIS (1) Conditions were unsuitable for safe flying (2) Over confidence in pilot(3) Improper adjustment of high performance glider (4) No back protection in place

4, 1993 forty-four year old female student under instruction attempted a top landing finding that she could not penetrate away from launch-winds at launch 15 mph. Upon landing from fifteen feet she rolled on impact catching her arm as she rolled backwards breaking her wrist which required a cast but no hospitalization.

AI\IAL VSIS (1) Ancillary information indicated unstable air( 2) Inexperience possibly led to lack of anticipation of sequence of events necessary to execute a top landing in the prevailing conditions (3) Rotor conditions where pilot landed 9, HJ93 forty year old male class I pilot with three years experience attempted a reverse launch in 12-15 mph winds in a steep slope. Pilot was inexperienced with reverse launches. Following inflation the pilot was abruptly lifted and spun around collided directly down hill with bruises to shoulder. wrist and hand, clothing was shredded.

ANAL VSIS ( 1 ) Pilot was attempting a new procedure in challenging conditions-steep slope in high winds (2) Pilot was not holding brake lines during launch setup and was unable to access "D" riser quickly enough to avert the sequence of events (3) unsuitable clothing 17, 1993 thirty-three year old male instructor with extensive experience was kiting his canopy at launch when another paraglider passed in front creating wake turbulence. Pilot anticipated problem but was distracted by conversation with another pilot. In response to ensuing surge of canopy followed by the canopy falling behind the pilot, the pilot turned to regain control but was pulled to ground suffering a left shoulder dislocation.

ANAL 1fS1S (1) Conditions reported an unstable compounding wake turbulence problem (2) Distraction of conversation, even with experienced pilots, can be sufficient to reduce concentration and focus to a risky level in an otherwise easily manageable situation .

23,1993 twenty-five year old male pilot while attempting his first flight initiated a launch sequence and proceeded to run down hill without releasing his "A" risers. Proceeding in this manner the pilot eventually had to avoid surface debris leading to a collision with a boulder resulting in a hairline fracture in one foot.

ANAL VSIS (1) The obvious release of the "A" risers would have alleviated the immediate problem-failure to attain flight (2) A discussion of an abort sequence between pilot and instructor would have been appropriate.

tions, during which time the inadvertent lift sequence was initiated (2) Brake lines were not held at all times at the launch site which exacerbated the situation-pilot indicated that the situation could have been managed had this not been overlooked (3)Helmet was worn precluding serious damage to the head, as the pilot abruptly struck a solid obstruction during the sequence June 5, 1993 A forty-seven year old male class I pilot (also Hang IV) with extensive experience decided that conditions were not suitable for launch having observed marginal conditions earlier in day continue and recent dust devil activity. While packing up the previously laid out canopy, a dust devil inflated the right side of the wing and lifted the pilot to 70-100 feet above launch.

Minimal control was possible as lines were tangled between partial packing of canopy and abrupt inflation. Owing to rapid rotation and oscillation combined with twisted control lines, pilot was unable to attempt reserve deployment descending to ground resulting in three rib fractures, pulmonary contusion with two days of hospitalization ANAL '\'SIS (1) conservative gathering routine appropriate in marginal conditions including access to controls (2) General weather pattern indicated marginal conditions earlier in day (3) Pilot considered reserve deployment sequence, abandoned the decision and then went back to the deployment sequence but was then unable to access handle indicating the cost of the indecision.

June 5, 1993 A forty-six year old female class I (also HG Master) with significant experience attempted a controlled loss of altitude in approaching the landing zone which resulted in a horseshoe, followed by an asymmetric fold and spin pilot abruptly hitting ground with a PLF resulting in a compressed vertebrae ANAL '\'SIS (1) Pilot indicated serious misjudgment of altitude (2) Pilot's first flight with bi-focal corrective lenses, suggesting depth distortion, which may require a period of adjustment to adapt the eye to adjustment in perceived field (3) Pilot initiated a sequence to intentionally loose altitude which should be re-evaluated.

June 6, 1993 A forty-five year old male class II pilot with extensive experience successfully launched in mild thermal cycle followed by drift toward tree. In effort to avoid collision banked and collided with hill striking buttocks leading to burst lumbar vertebrae .

ANAL VSIS (1) Although pilot banked enough to avoid tree, pilot was left unable to correct for second problem resulting from this sequence (2) Pilot relaunched and flew to landing zone-without expert knowledge on site this would be ill-advised.

June 17, 1993 A thirty-two year old female class I pilot launched from a point 400 feet below a ridge top in steady winds (6-8 mph), She rose 200 feet above launch, the wind died and she proceeded away from the hill only to be pushed back into the hill where she experienced an abrupt crash landing. Upon impact the pilot broke a vertebrae (stable fracture) requiring overnight hospitalization but no surgery.

ANAL VSIS (1) Back support would have improved the situation as initial point of impact was buttocks (2) Possible rotor situation which more extensive site exploration might have revealed.

June 26, 1993 A twenty-nine year old female with no previous paragliding experience was towed into the air by three men running with a tow rope. The tow rope became ensnared in trees, the pilot loosing control of the glider at a height of fifty feet from where she plunged to the ground .She was airlifted to a trauma center with critical head and neck injuries, resulting in death three days later.

ANAL VSIS (1) This remains an incomplete report as no individual at the site has been accessible for comment or verification-information provided by Northwest Paragliding Club (2) Towing guidelines were not observed (3) Helmet was worn.

1\/1.iy 23, 1!193 A thirty-six year old class II pilot with extensive experience had an inadvertent lift from launch in strong conditions (15-20 mph), Pilot had laid out his canopy as winds appeared to be dying down to a safe level. A cross wind partially inflated the canopy, lifting the pilot, without brakes in hand, and dropped the pilot ten yards away. Another lift into the air followed by a dragging sequence along the ground where a combination of partial control of a riser and lesser wind stopped the pilot. A broken arm resulted requiring overnight hospitalization. !\NAL VSIS (1) Pilot questioned but did not act upon marginal wind con di-

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 33

___

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OCTOBER 93 PARAGLIDING TRIP TO

_.::___:._;:_;

CRAZY CHAMONIX!

$1,300.00 will include: 6 Flying Days, Hotel, Breakfast, Dinner, Transport on All Sites By Van, Radios, Insurance with the F.F.V.L., Supervision by French Certified Paragliding Instructors, Different Sites Everyday Ranging from Three to Six Thousand Vertical Feet over the Valley Floor. You will be Integrated in a group of pilots with the same flying experience. Words can say so much. It will be a unique experience, flying In the Chamonix Valley, home of the 0 Mont Blanc", Highest mountain in Europe. And if wµ~~~ ~ ~!ties are numerous, great and waiting for you I you like good food and want to ~

P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

USHGA REGION NOMINATIONS REGION I Mike King - Incumbent Frank Gillette - Nominee Hi, I'm Frank Gillette, owner of Magic Valley Gliders in Burley, Idaho. I have been flying hang gliders since 1972, paragliding since 1990, and I'm a certified hang gliding and paragliding instructor.

I believe in an organization whose strength lies in its numbers, and whose assets are informed pilots and public as its membership. Foremost, I would like to see USHGA evolve into a cohesive organization, with solid programs and a united and focused effort to elevate our overall image through public relations. It is essential in our Region, I feel, to spearhead the administering of our sites with landowners and land managers, thereby simultaneously preserving sites and securing new sites through concerted pilot communication and before-the-fact negotiations.

In addition, I believe in training and safety programs not only for new pilots, but also for all pilots currently enjoying the sport. To all those who plan to enjoy flying for as long as I have, and with the aforementioned ideas in mind, I ask you for your vote.

George Sturtevant - Nominee If you fly in the newly re-configured Region I, there's a pretty good chance that you've met C.J. and me. I'm a 47-year-old teacher and I've been flying hang gliders since 1982 and paragliders since 1991. Being a teacher provides me with summer free-time for our favorite activities, and CJ. and I have put a lot of miles on the "Fun Hog" filling up our logbooks with new sites.

The first thing I've got to explain is that this is a "two for the price of one" deal: my wife C.J. and I do everything together, and being a USHGA Regional Director is no exception. This will be a real advantage at the BOD meeting since you will have representation on twice as many committees.

Primarily because C.J. ran the 1985 and 1986 Nationals held at Chelan, we got to know and have established continuing relationships with many of the other elected Directors and significant volunteers. We know how business is conducted at the BOD meetings, partly through these contacts and partly through the full Board minutes and Gene Matthews' in-depth briefings.

We've been active on the local level as well, serving in every elected office in Cloudbase Country Club, including at least two years as newsletter editor.

I've also been responsible for the site guides for both CBCC and the Northwest Paragliding Club. We have been active in working with local and state governments to maintain and open flying sites.

If elected: 1) I plan to represent both hang glider and paraglider pilots evenhandedly and to the advantage of both. 2) I will try to see that our national organization is controlled by the pilots and not by commercial interests. 3) I will work to see that members get quicker responses to their concerns. 4) Region I needs two Directors based on pilot population, but Region V should be reestablished-I will seek a means of doing that.

Region I has a history of low voter turnout. I encourage you to submit your vote this year for sure AND fill out your questionnaire so that your voice can be heard.

REGION ii Russ Locke - Incumbent Paul Gadd - Nominee

I have always been involved from the beginning with paragliding safety and training. I organized and conducted the Paragliding Advanced Maneuvers Program in my Region. This program has been instrumental in helping paraglider pilots develop the skill and judgment needed in our sport.

As the former president of our local hang gliding and paragliding club, Northern California Foot Launched Pilots Association, I have worked on various site acquisition, leasing, improvement and access problems locally. I am familiar with the concerns and problems associated with dealing with government agencies regarding site improvement and access.

As Regional Director I would hope that I would be able to bridge some of the gaps in our Region between paragliding and hang gliding pilots and their clubs. In Northern California, cooperation between the hang gliding and paragliding communities has rewarded us with common respect for each other, as fellow pilots, with the same love for the air.

Paul Gazis - Nominee Hello. You pilots in Region II may know me as past editor and sometime cover artist for the WOR newsletter. Pilots on the Internet may know me as author of the occasional unconventional posting to the hang gliding mailing list. I'm your basic recreational Hang IV. You know the type: no particular interest in world records or competition, but always ready to head over the back if conditions look good, or even if they don't. Since my first fateful lessons at Dillon Beach, back in 1986, I've accumulated 600 hours and 1,000 or so miles at 60 sites in the U.S. and Australia, and despite vicious rumors to the contrary, many of my landings have actually been on dry land.

Hang gliding has given me a lot over the years-great times, great friends, great experiences, as well as opportunities to wash mud off my harness and take my instruments in for repairs-and I'd like to give something back in return. I was an Observer for two years, a newsletter editor for three years, and now for reasons of selfless altruism, not to mention fame, glory, and the unlimited social opportunities, I'm running for Regional Director.

I feel that the biggest concerns facing our sport today are site acquisition, site retention, and attracting and encouraging new pilots. I am concerned by the way the average age of the hang gliding community is increasing every year, and worry lest we suffer the fate of the sailplane community. I hope I could do something to reverse this trend. I also believe in peaceful cooperation between the sometimes hostile factions within the footlaunched aviation community. If you think that the USHGA Board of Directors can use this kind of naive but well-intentioned enthusiasm, not to mention this kind of bizarre and extravagant writing, please give me your support! Thank you.

Chris Crescioli - Nominee Hello fellow pilots-my name is Chris Crescioli. Having spent several years in Region II as a Beginner through Advanced Instructor and Tandem Instructor, I have gotten to know people at every level of the sport throughout the Region. I believe this experience provides me with the necessary foundation to fulfill the duties of Regional Director.

One of the main duties of a Director is to represent the interests and opinions of fellow Region II pilots. I don't own a shop or work for anyone, so my decisions will be open-minded and based on what is best for all pilots. If elected, I will make a point of contacting clubs in the Region and making myself available to anyone who might need assistance.

Along with obvious issues such as safety, I would like to see site acquisition become a priority of USHGA. While this has been mainly pursued at a local level, I feel USHGA could play a larger role. If a comprehensive program were in place in which the national organization not only assisted local clubs but organized regional programs with the goal of opening new sites, the entire membership would benefit. The acquisition of new sites will inevitably lead to greater exposure, new members, and more open skies. In the long run it will mean strength for the sport, stabilization of dues and a shorter drive to launch!

Nominee - John Yates Mike Badley - Nominee Paragliding experience: five years, 300+ hours of airtime and over 1,000 flights. Have paraglided in five countries and flown over 50 different sites.

Qualifications and ratings: Class Ill Instructor, Advanced Maneuvers Administrator, Towing Supervisor and Administrator, Tandem Pilot rating.

As the factory representative and distributor for Pro Design Paragliders I have the opportunity to travel throughout my Region and the country to various flying sites. I have been fortunate enough to meet many pilots, hang glider and paraglider alike, and to listen to their concerns and problems in their areas. It seems that wherever I go I hear the same concerns and problems we are all faced with: site access, safety, adequate pilot training, accident rates and injuries.

I saw my first hang glider in 1977 when I was in Norway, and some adventurous soul flew a standard across a fjord to land (whack) in a field on the other side. My friends thought that pilot was looney tunes, but it stayed in my dreams and to this day I can remember that big, black, flapping wing floating across that expanse of water as if it were yesterday.

I took up hang gliding with a local shop shortly after moving into this Region in 1986, and since then have been busy trying to fly all of our sites.

Most of you have seen my smiling face in the back of somebody's truck heading for launch at some place or another! I am of the opinion that this Region is

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P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

unparalleled in the beauty, variety and challenge of hang gliding, and I want to continue the work of bringing more of these sites to all hang glider pilots.

First and foremost in my mind is to promote flying safely with good equipment, good instruction and good judgement. Along with Region Ill, we have the largest flying population and the greatest opportunity to reduce accident statistics.

My goal is zero launches unhooked, zero equipment failures, zero fatalities and zero lost sites! We can do it!

Unlike Regional Directors in the past who are more like "local" Directors, I want to be involved with every club or organization within the Region to put together ideas, tools, people and programs which focus on these goals. As much as possible (I have to work, too!), I want to make a personal visit to every club to get that feedback. It's time for new blood on the Board, don't you think?

Sharon Jokela - Nominee Good evening, Region II. I am a self-employed artist and business woman in San Francisco, California. My home flying site if Ft. Funston. For the second year now, I am serving as treasurer of the club at that site. Yes, an artist who likes dealing with numbers!

I am a recreational pilot, with no monetary interest or gain to be made from this sport, and no desire to become a political fixture in USHGA. I made it through the hurdles to become a Hang Ill on November 17, 1990.

When I took up hang gliding, I thought it might be as fun as riding horses or hiking. But instead it has become as entwined with me as working with art is. One more earthling up and away-- the views are splendid. And slicing through the air is fabulous!

If elected, I will work to keep USHGA's national administration in touch with, and reflective of, local hang gliding chapters' situations and sentiments-especially pertaining to issues which affect the preservation and quality of our flying sites. In addition, I would like to turn some of my energy toward opening up more areas to hang gliding.

I will work to represent the best interests of both current and future hang glider pilots. I want to keep in regular contact with all Region II chapters, so that their memberships' thoughts on all issues are heard by the national organization.

REGION Ill Joe Greblo - Incumbent Gregg lawless - Incumbent

REGION IV Glen Nicolet - Incumbent Regional Director elections are here again, and now those of you in Region IV have a choice. MOST IMPORTANT IS THAT YOU VOTE! Historically, elections have produced very little response. Some candidates have been selected by as few as 10% of the membership, so when you receive this issue of Hang Gliding magazine don't let someone else pick your Director. Take off the ballot, fill it out, make your choice known and VOTE. Then stick a stamp on it and mail it in. It's that simple.

I will be running for Regional Director again. For the past several years I have served USHGA as a Director. Now I would like to have your support to continue this effort. Since I have become Regional Director I have met a lot of you. I have attended some of your club meetings and talked to you, or we have flown together. Many know me through my articles in the magazine.

Others have called on the phone to discuss different aspects of the sport.

Some of the subjects we have discussed include safety and training, ICP's, hypoxia and FAA regulations.

My background in aviation started in the late 60s when I earned my private pilot rating in single engine aircraft. I quickly obtained a commercial pilot's license and an instrument rating. In the early ?Os I added a commercial sailplane rating and flew competition for several years. I started flying hang gliders in the late ?Os and presently hold an advanced hang glider pilot rating.

While working for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA}, I have lived in Ohio and Virginia; worked at FAA Headquarters in Washington, DC; worked in the Chicago area as an FAA evaluator; and am now a permanent resident of New Mexico. My position is Area Manager at the Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center. Most recently I have explored aspects of paragliding. I

PAGE 36 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

have visited the schools, talked to the instructors, students and pilots. I have also become very familiar with this part of our sport.

One of the most important things we need is good communication and more representation for our members. I can provide this by attending all Director and Board meetings. We also need more open and shared communication through visits to club meetings and articles in your individual newsletters. By talking to the clubs in our Region we can bring everyone closer together. The new folks interested in hang gliding and paragliding within our Region also need information to encourage new growth. We need to concentrate on beginner and intermediate pilots to develop better skills in the safest possible way. It is important that the flying community as a whole, from beginner to advanced, be represented. Development of competition needs attention in order to find the best qualified pilots. But let's not forget to develop and promote FUN flying for all pilots to learn about flying safely. Proper and accurate accident investigation is another area that is important to the safety of the sport. All accidents need to be investigated and the information shared so everyone can benefit. I believe that I can help achieve these goals.

I will continue to participate in all aspects of the sport with the interest of everyone in mind. Over the past several years I have attended all Board meetings. As chairman of the Safety and Training Committee I have assisted in updating the rating system and continue to work with others concerning the growing interest in paragliding, tandem, towing, and other changing aspects of the sport. We have successfully opened altitudes above 18,000 feet for hang gliding. I will continue to work in the areas of regulation and control for the benefit of all without compromising safety.

Flying and aviation have been a big part of my life. Soaring is one of my greatest pleasures. I have a special interest in helping promote both the sport and safety of hang gliding and paragliding. This can be done through education and a positive attitude. My background, education and experience is available, and I would like to assist in whatever way possible to help USHGA grow in a positive direction.

Keep in mind that being a small group of aviation enthusiasts we are often misunderstood by many inside and outside aviation circles. We need to understand and follow some very simple and basic guidelines in our sport to maintain independence. As a Regional Director I believe I can contribute positively to the benefit of hang gliding and paragliding.

Region IV needs a Director who can give it a lot of attention It will takea lot of work and time. If you believe I am the choice for you, then vote for me.

Your vote is an important decision. Make it carefully and VOTE. Granger Banks - Nominee Granger Banks, 33, full-time operator of a large paragliding school in Boulder, CO for the past three years. As a USHGA Class Ill Instructor and Tandem Instructor, I have taught more than 300 students to paraglide. As one of the first paraglider pilots to tow and as a USHGA Tow Administrator I have been active in developing a USHGA tow program for paragliding. I attended and participated in the USHGA Board of Directors meeting in the spring of '93, and I am familiar with the duties and responsibilities of a Regional Director. As a member of the local chapter of USHGA, the RMHGA, an organizer of paragliding club meetings, I have actively promoted the sport.

If elected, I will to serve a two-year term as Regional Director. I seek your support as Regional Director for Region 4 for the following reasons: As USHGA incorporates paragliding into the Association, I believe it is important to have Directors who have extensive experience in paragliding and know the paragliding community well. I have such experience and knowledge.

I believe it is important that USHGA have Directors who actively support the safe and prudent growth of the industry, and see that personal self-interest doesn't get in the way of this. In the past four years I have been actively involved in promoting the sport through pilot training, flyins, flying site improvements, and participating in the Rocky Mountain Hang Gliding Club.

I believe it is important that USHGA have Directors who are active pilots and enjoy flying, and this is their primary reason for being in the sport. I am such a pilot with thousands of flights and hundreds of hours of airtime logged.

Since USHGA is deeply concerned about the safety of pilots, I think it is important to have Directors who are experienced in training pilots and can contribute to improving safety through training. As President of Parasoft, Inc. Paragliding School in Boulder, I have gained extensive experience training hundreds of pilots over the past four years and run a wellrespected school.

Thank you for your consideration and I hope I can count on your support in the Board elections this fall.

REGION IV Ron Kenney - Incumbent

Uru~~~d 8~©1~~~ H©1rug G~~d~rug ~~~ruos ~u~«~LJ P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

REGION IX Pete Lehmann - Incumbent Well, here I am again two years down the line soliciting your vote for a job that I don't really want. But it is a job that needs to be done, and as yet no one else in the Region seems willing to stand for the position. Regarding basic qualifications, I have some 1,500 hours of airtime and 12,000 miles of X-C experience gathered over 14 years and around the world. I am articulate, and can type. What more do you want?

What does the position entail, and why should you vote for me to fill it? My conception of the role of a Regional Director is of an articulate, experienced voice of a hang glider pilot representing the interests of the general pilot community at the biannual Board of Directors meetings. Where necessary, he should also deal with government bodies whose activities affect flying activities. Only under duress should he intervene in club-level matters such as the administration of the rating system. It is my firm belief that those matters should ordinarily be resolved within clubs. Such disputes are commonly more a matter of personality conflicts than they are objective disagreements. And I am no social psychologist.

So, what then do I do? Most importantly, I attend the BOD meetings where my actions are guided by the basic thesis that the Board's deliberations are about flying hang gliders, and any actions by the Board that do not directly and measurably contribute to that objective are to be fought. Too much of what transpires at the meetings is either incremental rule changes motivated by one or two Directors' local problems, or grandiose schemes to make hang gliding "safer" or "professional." In most cases the true outcome of these actions is to pile and additional, stifling layer of bureaucracy onto an already solid foundation of rules. Almost without exception the proud authors of these proposals cannot provide an iota of proof as to the efficacy of their contributions. They merely piously express their opinion that it will improve safety. As arguing against safety is akin to arguing against motherhood, it is often the case that these wellmeaning but useless rule changes go into effect. My role in these discussions is that of a curmudgeon insisting upon evidence of a demonstrably positive consequence before I will support a measure. And very often I don't support them, and, indeed, contribute to their defeat.

Lest I sound like an anarchist let me say that I fully support anything that protects our access to insurance, the true lifeblood of USHGA, and any action that keeps the FAA off our backs. I am also an active participant in the business of the Finance Committee as the financial well-being of the organization is the necessary precondition for our access to insurance and continued selfregulation.

There you have it. If reelected as Regional Director I will continue to speak up as a hang glider pilot, not a large school or manufacturer. I will also continue to act as a central storehouse of flying information in the Region, run the Regionals, and act as a liaison between individuals and the USHGA office.

REGION X Matt Taber - Incumbent I'm completing my third consecutive term (six years) as one of Region 1O's two Directors. I have been very involved with membership and development (committee chairman for two terms), Safety and Training, Towing and Tandem Committees. I was selected for the USHGA planning committee. I am and have always been easily accessible and available (at Lookout Mountain Flight Park) to address the many problems and concerns from Region 10 members. I work hard and I go to the Board meetings, and if reelected I will continue to do so.

As a pilot and owner of Lookout Mountain Flight Park, I believe a strong national organization, continued improvement in flight safety, and membership growth are keys to the survival of hang gliding as we know it today.

Improved training for students entering the sport is critical to our safety r.ecord, and during this term as your Regional Director I developed and published Hang Gliding for Beginner Pilots, the USHGA's official flight training manual.

I continue to volunteer my time and work hard for you and a strong USHGA. Vote for experience, dedication and proven commitment. Please vote for Matt Taber, Region 1O Director. Thank you.

Tommy Thompson - Nominee With a slope takeoff in my backyard at our home on Sauratown Mountain. the Alligator Rock Flyers Club members enjoy the southern view. A paved road to the grassy setup area allows pilots to hang glide or paraglide to our

two landing fields. The airport-size windsocks mark the site well. One LZ has a concrete basketball court and fishing pond. On top of the 950' vertical ridge at the house is shade under the porch on the back deck, bathroom facilities, telephone and good cold mountain water. We also have a very valuable asset which cannot be ignored: the club fetch 'em truck driven by veteran driver and wife Robbie. Her 17-years of experience is second to none. Also, our son Jason or daughter Crystal will be glad to video your flight for a memory to last a lifetime. This site is alcohol and drug free. The photos were taken by Jason.

The paragliding one was in New Hampshire and the hang glider one was in Vermont. That was a great vacation and I want to thank Jake at West-Rutland and Jeff Nicolay for the airtime. Also, thanks to the Canada pilots for hospitality in Quebec. I've enjoyed the Owen's Valley, Point of the Mountain and aerotowing in Florida, but it was said best by Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz: "There is no place like home." Please vote this election.

Gregg B. McNamee - Nominee I feel honored to be nominated as Region 10 Director and will be happy to serve as your Director, if elected.

I have been flying hang gliders for seven years using truck, boat and presently aero towing methods. My current ratings are Tandem Instructor and Aero Tug Instructor. I am an Aero Tow Supervisor and Honorary Director of the USHGA. My wife and I attend the USHGA Board of Directors meetings.

We are very active in the Tandem, Towing and Safety and Training Committees to mention a few. We feel that if we didn't attend the Board of Directors meetings, the needs of the pilots in Florida and surrounding states may not be addressed.

For the past two years I have been President of The Draggin' Flyers here in Central Florida. I have coordinated and organized fly-ins, competitions and h.ang gliding performances. During the years I have opened several flying sites for our club, working closely with local landowners to maintain them.

I have recently formed GrayBird Airsports, Inc. to provide hang gliding instruction and equipment to my fellow pilots.

In light of my experience, I know the problems that face us as hang glider pilots and am willing to help solve them. I want our sites to stay open, our airspace to be safeguarded, our sport to stay safe, and the opportunity of flight to continue.

Stay well my friends and great flights to all.

Barbara Flynn - Nominee I desire to be your Regional Director for Region 10.

In the last three years I have attended, at my own expense, four Board of Directors meetings beginning with Washington, DC in 1990. I have been active on the Towing Committee, Safety and Training Committee, Tandem, and Aerotowing Subcommittee. I believe that I can fill the requirements of a Regional Director by first allowing better access through quarterly communication with all members in the Region, and second by remaining impartial to regional interests.

Qualifications: (professionally) Vice President of Health Information Management Services for the Florida Hospital Association for the last three years; Secretary of the Draggin' Flyers Hang Gliding Association for the past five years; Vice President, Central Florida Flyers since 1982, member of the Tennessee Tree Toppers, member of the Towing and Safety and Training Committees; Basic Instructor; member and pilot since 1979.

I believe very strongly that Directors should represent the majority views of the members in their Regions. I vow to the members of Region 1O to perform this duty without personal bias. It is time for a change!

REGION XI Jeff Hunt - Incumbent I am up for reelection for the betterment of our sport and the USHGA. I believe that the fundamentals of our organization are safety in training and accident prevention. I have maintained strong connections with clubs and chapters and have always been available for assistance as Regional Director.

I have followed up on all letters and have a good attendance record at Board meetings. I am also regularly involved in the flying community through my activity with Red River Aircraft.

Site preservation and acquisition of adequate flying sites is also important. plan on assisting with more site guides, meets, and contributing more to USHGA publications.

The maturity of our pilots has increased and can still be improved (noting closure of Packsaddle for half a season). Report accidents to help prevent

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 37

Uiru~it®d 8it©lit®§ H©luug] G~~d~ITlg] ~§~UU09 ~UU(Go P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80933 (719) 632-8300 (719) 632-6417 FAX

them for others, be conservative about the conditions in which you launch, and use checklists for all towing operations.

I want to see more sites, safe pilots, and incident free hours of airtime for all. How's that for a campaign platform?

Dave Broyles - Nominee Dave Broyles, age 51, wants the job of USHGA Director for Region XI. What a nutl Who would want to be a Regional Director? What a terrible job. Don't get paid. Don't get much appreciation. Don't get any privileges or perks, and if you do the job right you are bound to make somebody mad at you.

Well, it's for sure that you've got to want to do the job. If you can't make the two yearly BOD meetings or don't care to attend the committee meetings once there, you aren't worth spit to the USHGA or its members.

So do I want the job? Yeah, I do. Why? Well, having served before on the BOD and as president of tho USHGA, and having attended the last two BOD meetings as an Honorary Director, I am pretty sure I can make a real contribution to the organization.

How? Well, I do have a low axes to grind, but lot's talk about them later. First, I will attend the committee meetings in which I have some expertise. Towing. safety and training and paragliding are the ones in particular that I will attend. I have been good at listening to the discussions and at times helping to clarify them. If appropriate, I make proposals and motions using my knowledge of parliamentary procedure and the way the BOD functions to get things done. I am serving as the head of the National Fly-In Committee, and will evaluate bids submitted and select the site of the national fly-in. In the Safety and Training Committee, I am working with an instructor on a rating booklet, which if approved will allow a pilot to get individual signoffs on each skill for a new rating and make it much easier to be rated. I attend tho main meeting and as Regional Director, I will listen and vote on issues which affect us all as pilots.

What axes do I have to grind? Well, in the Paragliding Committee meeting, I intend to propose that as part of paragliding instruction, pilots be required to learn parachute landing falls (PLFs). In the Tow Committee meeting, I hope to see standards set for tow drivers as well as a uniform set of standards for rating a pilot for tow.

I have lost friends to head injuries, and I hope to see the standards for hang gliding helmets clarified so that we will know that the helmets we are sold are safe.

What am I not going to do? Well, I am not going to let my business interests in hang gliding influence my decisions as a pilot and for pilots at the USHGA BOD meeting.

I know that some of you have been critical of my appearance, in particular the way I wear my hair, however in an attempt to cut the budget, I promise that I will never get a $200 haircut at the Packsaddle LZ, or any other LZ for that matter.

I also promise that I will try my best to never again break my arm in flight as I have been told that it makes the onlookers nervous. I promise as well not to attempt to break John Heiney's record for continuous loops unless I have sufficient altitude.

Finally, I promise to keep my sense of humor, such as it is, while being very serious about supporting the needs and the goals of the pilots of the USHGA. Robert Flegal - Nominee Folks in Texas nicknamed me "Ranger Bob," probably because I'm usually wearing a ten-gallon hat while hanging around launch. I'm 52 years old and have been actively flying both paragliders and hang gliders for two years.

I am currently President of Packsaddle Soaring Association, a club serving Austin, Houston, Dallas and San Antonio. We have, as many of you know, had difficulties keeping Packsaddle Mountain open this year. I like to think that my maturity and listening skills have helped with the successful reopening of that lovely site.

If elected I will concentrate on serving the interests of both hang glider and paraglider pilots in our Region. I will be honored to serve as your Regional Director if elected.

REGION XII Paul Voight - Incumbent Hello, Region 12! Once again, it's election time, and if you'll have me, I'd like to continue representing Region 12 at the Board of Directors meetings. I've been your Director for two terms (four years) now, and also held the posi tion of USHGA Vice President for the last two one-year terms.

For those of you who are not familiar with me and my qualifications, I've been flying for 21 years, been in the hang gliding instruction business since 1980, and have had both Advanced Instructor and Master ratings since 1984. I hold the Tandem Administrator and Tow Supervisor appointments, and have achieved the diamond safe pilot award.

I have owned and operated my hang gliding business, "Fly High Hang Gliding" here in New York since 1985, which has continued to allow me to live the lifestyle of the rich and famous.

Between selling T-shirts, "whack tapes," and Wills Wing RamAirs, I've been jumping tax brackets like hurdles !

Seriously, though, there are serious issues continually facing our sport and its organization.

Insurance, the tandem program, site security, pilot saf ety, and, in my opinion, airspace conflicts with general and commercial aviation lead the list. I'd like to continue my participation on the towing, tandem, and safety and training committees.

I'm also very eager to continue serving on the financial redistribution committee, as I feel I've had a significant impact on the productivity of this committee Please take the time to vote, and I'll do my best to represent the Region from a pilot's point of view.

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,fl01i0 l'lffelit,, !000,ffl,!Hf 0,@p!I HU; The longest experience to rely on. The first to introduce a maneuvers clinic. Committed to excellence in quality, performance and safety.

Brizair-Everest Genair Flyair Passagair Tandem new Spydair Tigair

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(28141, 235th lt.ve Sill. 1\/lamle M~iley, Wit. 98638 , !!!none 266,,4~2-,~~66 ffiax ?,6-43~-28m6 PAGE 38 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

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'

You may already have heard about the new Harley Sirocco. In tests it has been described as a "phenomenal canopy, well within the reach of a novice pilot; yet the performance is that of a competition canopy''.

While advances in competition paragliders have begun to reach a plateau, intermediate models have made huge strides in approaching this level of performance. The Sirocco is the foremost example of this new breed of paraglider: competition level performance with no sacrifice of stability.

The Sirocco has also received a maximum 12A Acpul safety rating.

For more information abou the Sirocco, PagoJet or the Wesselman Winch please contact the British School of Paragliding.

Dealer inquiries are also welcome.

British School of Paragliding 1770 N Green Valley Parkway #4134 Henderson, NV 89104 Tel; (702) 896-6000 Fax; (702) 896-6022

Flash - Las Vegas: Mark Heckler flies 30 miles on Harley Sirocco on his first ever cross country flight.

Harley Paragliders, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire, England.

CARRINGTON NOVA RE

Tel; 01144 691 670644 Fax; 01144 691 670617

ha,lcy P~A~GLIC>EAS

We are the 1st. paragliding school in the U.S., established in 1987, at the Point of the Mountain near Salt Lake City .We specialize in individualized instruction .We teach at the best inland sites in the US , featuring drive to launch sites. We provide everything you need to become a pi lot, including tandem instruction and advanced training. Call us first ! Fred or Claudia Stockwell 3314 W. 11400 S. So Jordan Ut. 84095

(SO 1) LJ h ta

254 7455 -

l©t© V®gJ©l© lP©tr©tgiid~rug Paraglide in sunny Las Vegas. Main U.S. dealer for Harley Paragliders and Pago Jet - the ultimate powered paraglider. Duration 5 hrs. Distance 100+ miles.

Excellent reliability, portability and performance. Tow conversion course $100.

Tows $5 . Excellent XC flying. At site lu xury casino hotel $20. per night Beginner to advanced training.

(702) NEVADA

896-6000

GLIDELL SKYTIME PARAGLIDI (415) California

Instruction and sales with our certified staff.

Towing and towing clinics in the central valley.

Guided tours. Charter flights available .

555 Bryant St. Suite 256 Palo Alto , CA 94301 Fax (415) 424-9704

Aspen Paragliding (303) COLORADO

925-7625

868-2413

Directors: Jan Stenstayold and Dick Jackson Distributors for Nova , Vonblon ,and Airbulle Complete sales, service and accessories. One block from the gondola on Aspen Mt. Four day beginner course , Tandem instruction, Year round Mountain flying , XC , thermal & mtn . flying seminars, Adventure travel excursions to Europe & South America.

Call or write us at: 417 S. Spring St. Po Box 2432 Aspen CO 81611 or Fax (303) 925-7710

ACCELERATED FLIGHT SYSTEM Personalized , USHGA Certified Paragliding and Hang Gliding Instruction.

(619) S. California Courses are expertly run on a friendly , informative basis . We have been introducing people to the world of foot launched flight since 1976. New and used gliders and accessories. Ball , Comet, Edel, Firebird, ITV Second chantz, Wills Wing, and numerous others all skill levels we lcome.

P.O. Box 1226 Del Mar, CA 92014

(512) Taxas

794-1160

481-7400

Catch some air with Hill Country Paragliding, specializing in introduction to Towing, XC Thermalling, USHGA Certified instruction, sales and service. We carry a variety of certified gliders, instruments, helmets, a full line of towing acce- j6".._jC,,ll~ ~""°- 1 sories, T-shirts, hats and more .

PO Box 200644 Austin, TX 78720

tdh..t PLY AMDUCA

P.O. Box 188 ~hasta CA 95087 Fax (916) 359-2397 Personalized instruction, beginning through advanced skills.

Instruction that develops extraordinary pilots !

(916) N. California

359-2392

:ven ure s (303)

440-0803 PAGE 40 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Boulders premier paragliding school , est. 1988. Come to learn fly in the Rocky Mountains. We are the United States distributor for Firebird Products, and dealers for Ball Varios, and Hanwag Boots. Other accesories available in our full service shop. For more information please call Dave Whaley.

4439 N. Broadway, Unit E-2, Boulder, CO 80304

Thermax Paragliding Year round flying at the easiest site to learn to or to soar 1000' volcanic craters (extinct?!) Plus many other great drive up sites. 1 hour from Grand Canyon, dealer for almost everything I specializing in Edel. Class II USHGA Certified Instructions . Dixon White, 2 day classes start at $195.

1500 E Cedar #1 O Flagstaff, AZ 86004

(602) Arizona

1

526-4579 1

AirTek Paragliding chool Take advantage of San Diego's weather, nearly everyday is a good flying day.

(619) California Class I certification; $450, six days of training including high altitude .

483-1899

Accommodations , airline reservations, and transport arranged on request. teaching since '89, Class Ill Tandem rated instruction , Excellent safety record .

4667 Cass St Suite B San Diego, CA 92109

Paragliding - Hang Gliding, learn the sport of your cho ice today and start your adventure tomorrow. Sierra tours our specialty, Lake Tahoe I Reno. Learn to fly the mountains. USHGA certified school and ratings. dealers for Edel, Pro Design , Wil ls Wing, Pacific Airwave, UP . Sales - Service - Instruction

3650 Research Way #25 Carson City, NV 89706

Adventure ports (702) Nevada

883-7070

nc antment arag , ,ng sand train ing hills to dozens of mountain sites across the state, learning (505) New Mexico toFrom fly in New Mexico's uncrowded , crystal clear skies is an unparalleled experi-

281-2759 @

ence . Learn mountain flying , towing , thermalling, cross country, and maneuvers from USHGA certified instructors. A variety of gliders , accessories, and safety equipment available. Euro flying interest you ? call for info.

P.O Box 1082, Cedar Crest, NM 87008

LU

Pm•a•

•.y

Sc,haal

GMI = A paragliding school in New York with towing capabilities. USHGA Certified

Instructions. FREE COLOR BROCHURE. GMI = A FREE PARAGLIDING ACCESSORIES CATALOG on the hottest items from Italy /

France I Switzerland .

GMI = Summer and Fall paragliding trips to the French Alps for 'Class I pilots'.

GMI = Any artwork on your paraglider. FREE COLOR BROCHURE.

(516) NEW YORK

676-7599

USHGA Certified Tandem Instruction . Come learn to fly XC with Nationally Ran ked Pilot Bob Schick. Specializing in Advanced Tandem Instruction , Thermal and XC clinics, and custom tou rs of the breathtaking Utah and Wyoming scenery tor both hang gliders and paragliders. Southwind is the proud manufacturer of the Brain Bucket, Back Buddy, and new Brain Bucket Full Race.

106 E Capitol Salt Lake City, UT 84103

Full service hang gliding and paragliding retail outlet and school. Introductory lesson: $40 I Class I Pilot Program : $500. Schedule your instruction at the nations most consistent site. XC, Thermal, and Maneuvers Clinics scheduled throughout the summer season. Enjoy the advantages of learning to fly from a school that is supported by a manufacturer. Come 2 UP 12665 So. Minuteman Dr Draper, UT 84020

(801) Utah

SOUTIIWIND HANGGUDING

--..,.

___,.,

I

576-6460 i

o mencan arag 1 1ng Become a pilot under the guidance of USHGA certified instructor Mike Eberle.

(509) Washington We offer full-time, yea r-round instruction for the Pacific Northwest. Including one

925-5565

day introductory classes, through week long cerification courses. Tours throughout North America and around the world. Dealer for Flight Design , Wills Wing , FlyTek, Skywatch, UVEX, and more!

PO Box 4 Ellensburg, WA 98926 Fax: (509) 962-4827 PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 41

PARAGLIDING SCHOOLS

.... =J....~ ~ §UN VALLEY

PARAGLJ0/11/G

SUN VALLEY PARAGLIDING (208) Idaho

The most experienced and comprehensive flight school. We specialize in private tandem instruction. Our certified instructors and USHGA appointed towing and advanced maneuvers administrators will ensure you receive the finest training available. The local topography is the perfect location for our XC and mtn/thermal seminars. Visit our shop at the base of Bald Mtn where our full line of flight equipment and knowledgeable staff will satisfy all of your paragliding needs.

PO Box 5715, 301 Bell DR, Ketchum, ID 83340 Fax: (208) 726-1100

Compact Wings (909) California

654-8559

726-3332

Located @ the famous Soboba site, which combined with other local mtn. sites & great weather offers more in altitude gains and hours than anywhere in the USA. New inter. glider, harness, lessons or reserve or vario/alt. $2995 . 5 day course $395. Class Ill & Tandem Instruction . Dealer all major brands. Less than 2 hrs from LA & San Diego.

1271 Avd. Floribunda, San Jacinto, CA 92583

Rocky Mountain Paragliding F!y the "Canadian Rockies" He!i, Hike or drive up to incredible mountain sites of (403) Canada -... ...... _., over 3000 ft vertical. We offer 1 day or full certification courses. You can obtain your Canadian, USHGA, or New Zealand ratings. Tandem Instruction also available. Local or international tours. Advanced maneuvers courses. Dealer for Edel and Advance.

Glenn Derouin Box 2662 Canmore Alberta, Canada TOLOMO

Members receive discounts. We have 6 instructors, beginning to advanced instruction, international tours. Courses offered throughout Oregon: Willamette Valley, Central and Eastern Oregon (including a 4000' gondola over water). Courses are personal; you progress at your own pace. Our injury record is impeccable; over 2000 student days, and only two hurt wrists and ankles! We have accounts with all of the major European and U.S. manufacturers: ITV, Pro Design, Edel, Ball, Brauniger, and more - no sales tax!

678-4973

Oregon Paragliding Association, Inc. 1012 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97701 Ph: 503*389-5411 Fax: 503*389-8010

AIRPLAY PARAGLIDING SCHOOL We are located at world famous Kagel Mountain , L. A. 's most popular flying site. Our full service retail shop offers complete lines of clothing, books and magazines, flight suits , cross country gear, instruments, gliders, harness repair facilities and much , much more. Year round certified instruction with Mike Haley.

13525 Elderege Street;

Sylmar, California. (818) 367-2373

> Introductory -

Advanced Instruction ParaTrekking Trips Tandem Instruction :,,,- Towing Instruction > Complete Sales & Service

,

> >

303/494-2820

Dealers for Edel, Prodesign, Nova, Ball, Brauniger, Maxon ParaSoft.

Inc.

Paragliding School • 4445 Hastings Drive

• Boulder . CD 80303

0

•

303 / 494 - 2820

0

-Airjunkies just love to fly, so thats what we do!

-Professional instruction from beginner, through instructor -Touring over a dozen great year-round sites in So. California and the Baja -Flight test the equiptment that's right for you!

(619) 753-2664

MES CALI TO 50639 Obyrne Road • Sardis, B C. , Canada • V2R 2Pl

(604) 858-2300 On ly one hour from Vancouver. B. C. and Bellingham WA.

•USHGA AND HPAC Certifi ed paragliding Instru ctors •Tandem Instru ctors •Paraglidin g tours in Europe. South Africa, & Mex ico •Distributor for Sup' Air, U. S Voiles and the New "PROFILE" with 7 to I glide, J .0 m/sec. sin k and all A's 1 •Dealer for For Pro Des ign & APCO

,./

·'

~J. ~ ,·.

~

GOOID SCHOOL GLIDERS

DEMO WINGS

FOR SALE

Asterope 30, asterope 25, A-3 med.

Nunki 94,-98 Demos; We make great deals,call for prices (801)254-7455

Demo the wing before you buy!

Dealer for several major manufacturers. New, Used & Demo's - Great deals - Call for more info. - (801) 2547455

COMET CX-23 with 4 riser system & harness $1200 COMET CX-19 very low hours, with harness and reserve $1400. (619) 225-8720.

FOR SALE

EXCALIBUR

92 UP KATANA 27 Excellent condition, only 50 hrs. UP harness with foot st irrup. High Energy 20 ft. PDA reserve. $2300 obo Call Dave at (619)697-4530

KATANA 51 Red White & Blue $2200. 080 Call Nate (208} 726-3191

APACHE 26 Blue, excellent condition (1 O hrs, only}, weight range132-187 lbs. $1.,800 for quick sale. (702)896-6000 Challenger C 25 Beautiful $2200;

fOR SALE U.P. Stellar 25 purple $1000 includes harness; Swing Prisma 26 top performance $2400; Swing Zenith 26 Solid intermediate performer less than 6 hrs. $2000; Van Blon Harness - low hours with built in parachute container $350; Paul- Santa Barbara - (805) 962-9584 after 6:00 P.M.

Ball Varies New, Used+ demos Call Claudia (801) 254-7455

FOR SALE OR TRADE 1992 Yellow Firebird Apache "29" 154 - 242 lbs., 10 flights , very low air time $2400 glider only; with pack and Sitting Bull harness + R2 reserve (negotiable). Need larger glider for Pago Jet! Will trade for Glider of equal value rated aprox. 200 min.-300 lbs.max. Also looking for used Pago Jet. Call Jeff (907) 790-3334

BEGINNER PACKAGE! EXCALIBER 33 330'. Weight range 160 -220; less than 20 hours, excellent condition; with Paraporter RBS harness and Aerolight 20 gore reserve. $1300; (203} 256-0888

AIPCO ASTRA 27

TANDEM WINGS OR >250LBS.

Like New Condition with only 9 Hrs air time.

Includes APCO Secura Harness with Air Bag and reserve.

Only $2400. Will sell separately.

Call Brad (201) 825-3515.

ITV CYCLOPS 40m 2 excellent condition less than 100 flights. $2000 obo.

Parasoft (303) 494-2820.

PREVENTING DIVORCE Forced to sell by a angry wife. Must get glider out of the house. STELLAR 27 Yellow with a Blue star & tips. Call me - It will be worth your while! Note: Guaranteed good condition. Demo possible. 1 (800) 966-6820. Ask for Hagai.

POCKET ROCKET Never Fired 18 gore (200 lb. max.) $550. 1991 Excalibur 27 cell , 296 ft2, 197 lbs max. Less than 20 hrs.

Includes deluxe pack, helmet, paraporter RBS harness. $950. (208) 549-1047.

FOR SALE 1991 Flight design "Dream" Teal/Orange, like new condition.

Range 132 thru 220 lbs. Less than 20 hrs. Includes Backpack, Air Bulle Harness and Glider. $1500. This is a great first glider, good performance & great stability. Jim (817)960-4080.

MISCELLANEOUS Trade Edel Racer for beginner/ intermediate wing; New comfortable brake handles $25; New vario/altimeter $350; New FM radios 130 - 174 Mhz $25; Used radio $200; Save your wing with lightweight stuff bag/ XC bag/ backpack $45; Challenger $1900; Wills Wing $1800; Corvette II $1200; send me your standard UP harness-I can improve it dramatically and add a Kevlar back protector if requested; Heavy pilot or moderate Tandem wing 80-100 kg DHV 1, SHV all A's $2300 (909) 654-8559

FIREBIRD TWIST 28 Canopy, 35 hours, exc. condition; $1500 Call Tad at (303)492-3480.

33 Cell, 267 square feet. Excellent Conditions. Less than 20 hrs. Glider includes Paraporter harness and custom backpack.$1,500 080.

(714)229-0570 (mornings or evenings) Ask for Jennifer

92 FIREBIRD APACHE 26 PKG. Includes sitting bull harness and firebird R2 reserve. Excellent condition, flown less than 25 hrs, $2100 Call Mike (303) 526-2101

NOVA PHANTOM Excellent condition, 100 flights- 80 hrs., well cared for, many snow launches. Purple. $1800 wing and pack only. Experienced pilots. Call Steve (303)925-4583

PARA.GLIDER FOR SALE Wills Wing AT123; Great condition, split A's, line upgrade, speed system, deluxe Wills Wing harness. hook knife, $1600 Call Wade (619)2914434

PRO- DESIGN CHALLENGER 25/27 Meter; less than 35 hrs. Like new, pink, yellow and purple; speed risers & speed system Paid $3600, steal at $2350 Bob Ryan (714) 4958051

MOTORIZED PARA.GLIDER Adventure 210 Para Motor system in new condition with harness and three blade prop -$4,800. Wills Wing AT125 in excellent condition -$1 ,800, Call (801)226-3748

f~'.l1~~Rm:llllllilll~fQIR7:'.;1:;~~ Stolen July 27, 1993 in the Santa Barbara area. FIREBIRD APACHE 26 Pink in color and brand new. If you have any questions, contact Air

Paragliding the Magazine makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liabilities concerning the validity of any advice, claims, opinions, or recommendations expressed herein. All individuals relying upon the material do so at their own risk. When purchasing a used glider, be advised to carefully check it's condition for air worthiness. If in doubt many paragliding businesses will be happy to give an objective opinion about the condition of the equipment that is appropriate for their skill level or rating. New pilots should seek professional instruction from a USHGA certified instructor.

PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE• PAGE 43

Technology in Santa Barbara {800)424-1983; {805)962-8999

EXCELLENT SCHOOL GLDERS Justra Stratos Classic 25; Low hours, great condition. Harness and Bag $1,100 {307) 745-9376.

Excaliber 296; New lines, paraporter harness and bag $900 (307) 7453976.

ITV ASTEROPE 30 Very good condition, 20 hrs. $1,800 Call Jim Camou {307) 733-4751

Its-A-Cinch Its-A-Cinch to bundle your glider safely without folding. Its-A-Cinch to protect it from UV light. And now, it's improved! The new It's-A-Cinch carrying bag.$99.00. (503) 223-9534 or FAX (503) 241-9520

Pen & Ink dlrawn Note Cards Pen and ink drawn note cards w/ flight sentiments; pack of 10- $3 or 2 for $5 add $1 for S&H to: Paragliding; PO box 477; Riverton, UT 84065

GUYS OVER 220 lbs.

Are you heavy on your wing? Always at the bottom of the stack? I have 2 35m 2 • gliders: Cyclops 35- beginner I intermediate; Pegasus 35- intermediate/ advanced. Great handling and performance. Call today. Claudia (801) 254-7455

0

M E G

1-800-424-1983

PAAAGllDE - THE MOVIE

ACTION PACKED FOOTAGE FILMED ON LOCATION IN THE OWENS VALLEY, CALIFORNIA DURING THE WORLD CUP AND U.S. NATIONALS. GUARANTEED TO GIVE YOU MORE PARAGLIDING FOOTAGE THAN ANY OTHER VIDEO. 36 MINUTES.

ATTENTION SCHOOLS Training canopies $500-$800 in good condition. (512) 794-1160.

1/.~ l>HM- SPECTACULAR

4X4 FORD QUADRA VAN

PARAGLIDING FOOTAGE SET TO MUSIC ONLY AS WORLD CLASS PILOTS FLY TIGHT WITH A SAND DUNE IN AFRICA. 18 MINUTES.

THERmlK _THE ART oF FLYING IASICS OF FLIGHT - EUROPEAN VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS ALL ASPECTS OF HANG GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING FLIGHT: FROM THE FIRST STEP TO PROFESSIONAL COMPETITION FLYING, AND FROM SAFETY ASPECTS TO METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS. FOR PILOTS AND NON-PILOTS. VHS - 40 MINS.

Strong 460 VB Eng.top Cond.w/Hang gliding rack, seats 9-11 people, lg. seats and windows. Lots of extras.

Ideal set up for school. Asking $6000.

OBO call Uwe (415)990-2388

PRO DESIGN Challenger "C" 23 - Challenger "C" 25 Factory demos, very few hours. Call for price {916) 222-4606

FLORIDA FLATLAND FLYERS We are compiling a list of SE U.S. paraglider pilots and flying sites.

Towing clinic in near future.Call Fred at (904) 767-5768 or Bruce at {813) 831-6359 HG pilots and non pilots welcomed.

EDEL GLIDERS APOLLO 24/ 2hrs; APOLLO 22/ 30min. Both include harness and reserves. $2100 each OBO. Ken (510) 770-1105

SWISS MANUFACTURER "The Swiss manufacturer ADVANCE is now available on the American Market. The very successful Omega/2 has a proven reputation in Europe and will be available for demos at the United States Nationals in Aspen, Colorado in September." If you have any questions please call us at Air Technology at (800) 424-1983 FAX {805) 962-8999

HAVE YOU HEARD/ Roberts glider instruments is starting production of a really neat altimeter vario specially for paragliders. Less than $300 too. Why not ask Gilbert for details at 3340 Cliff Dr. Santa Barbara CA 93109 {805) 682-1088

HIGHWAYS - FLYING THE USA

FLYING THE USA FROM A GERMAN POINT OF VIEW. VISIT UTAH, ARIZONA, NEVADA, ANO CALIFORNIA. THIS IS A COMBINATION PARAGLIDING/HANG GLIDING VIDEO. 50 MINS.

{)II RII g(!).f _WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

A FULL LENGTH DOCUMENTARY OF THE 1991 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN DIGNE, FRANCE INCLUDING A SITE GUIDE OF FOUR SITES, REPUTED TO BE SOME OF THE BEST FLYING IN THE WORLD. VHS - 55 MINS.

SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER PARAGLIDE - THE MOVIE . . . .. $39.95 FLAMENCO DUNE . .

19.95 THERMIK . . . . . . .

49.95 HIGHWAYS . . . . . .

49.95 PARASOL . . . . . . . . .

49.95 POSTAGE & HANDLING . . . . . . . . . . 4.00

Aduenture Video Paul Hamilton 4 750 Townsite Road Reno, NV 89511 USA Phone/FAX 702-849-9672 CALL OR WRITE

FOR OTHER ACTION VIDEOS PAGE 44 • PARAGLIDING, THE MAGAZINE

Image Entry Level Glider (S, M, L) •

Reflex Helmet (S, M, L, XL)

, Tracer harness +Reserve Container+ Back Protection

ARAGLIDING

RTS Air Thrust Rocket Deployed Reserve. reload and refill in the field Hand Deploy Capability

--

......

COMPACT Latest development in the new Advanced-IntermediateClass with elegant look! Convincing appearance and ever simple launching characteristics besides uncritical flight behaviors persuade - typical PRO-DESIGN features. "High performance is no more a privilege for competition-pilots!"

COMPACT - THE symbiosis of fun, know-how and brilliant performance. For the ambitious hobby-pilot.

Larchenweg 33 A-6161 Natters Tel.: 0512 / 546444 Fax: 0512 / 546445-20

Pro Design USA Division of Yates Gear inc.

1600 E. Cypress Ave . # 8 Redding, CA 96002 Phone (916)222-4606 FAX (916)222-4640

PRO-DESIGN SINCE 1986 - PARAGLIDERS - HARNESSES- RESCUE SYSTEMS