USHGA Hang Gliding December 1985 by US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association

FULLMEMBERIIII. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. NAME

ANNUAL DUES: $39.00 ($42.00 foreign). This accords me full membership in the United States Hang Gliding ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Assn., Inc., 12 issues of Hang Gliding magazine, effecCITY _ _ _ _ _ _ S T A T E - - - - - - tive with current issue, liability and property damage insurance, and voting privileges. I need not be a rated ZIP _ _ _ _ PHONE ( pilot to be a member. 0 NEW MEMBER D RENEW/USHGA It _ __ (Please Print)

INSURANCE PLANS AVAILABLE D Plan A: Single Foot-Launch Gliding Coverage (included in Full & Family Membership fee)

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ANNUAL DUES: $19.50 for each family Member, everywhere, who resides in my household. Each will receive al I Fu II Member privileges EXCEPT a subscription to Hang Gliding magazine.

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ADDRESS------------CITY _ _ _ _ _ _ _ S T A T E - - - - - - ZIP

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0 $29.00 SUBSCRIPTION ($32.00 foreign) for one year. 0 $53.00 SUBSCRIPTION ($59.00 foreign) for two years. D $77.00 SUBSCRIPTION ($86.00 foreign) for three years. D $14.50 TRIAL SUBSCRIPTION (S17.50 foreign) for six months.

I HAVE ENCLOSED A CHECK OR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO: USHGA, BOX 66306, LOS ANGELES, CA 90066 USHGA will ONLY accept foreign checks payable on a U.S. bank in U.S. funds (U.S. dollars or International Money Order). Allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing. I got this form from

0 FULL MEMBER ($39.00, $42.00 foreign) 0 FAMILY MEMBER(S) ($19.50 each) 0 SUBSCRIPTION, one year ($29.00, $32.00 foreign) 0 SUBSCRIPTION, two years ($53.00, $59.00 foreign) 0 SUBSCRIPTION, three years ($77.00, $86.00 foreign) 0 TRIAL SUBSCRIPTION, six months (.$14.50, $16.00) fa.reign) D Two-year membership ($78.00) D Three-year membership ($117.00) Charge my CJ MasterCard

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P.O.Box 66306, Los Angeles, California 90066 USHGA Item #4

Revised 12/85

(213) 390-3065

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Features 6 The Driver

Columns 3 Viewpoint

by Raean E. Permenter

by USHGA President Russ Locke

Raean relates her adventures as a Hang V Driver.

Russ reviews the results of the recent USHGA Board meeting in Kansas City.

12 1986 USHGA Hang Gliding Calendar

Departments Page 6

Page 12

Page 36

COVER: Santa Claus (Geoffrey Rutledge) bringing his goodies to the folks near Little Black near San Diego, CA. Photo by the pilot. CONSUMER ADVISORY: Hang Gliding Magazine and USHGA, Inc., do not endorse or take any responsibility for the products advertised or mentioned editorially within these pages. Unless specifically explained, performance figures quoted in advertismg are only estimates. Persons considering the purchase of a glider are urged to study HGMA standards. Copyright © United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc. 1984. All rights reserved to Hang Gliding Magazine and individual contributors.

DECEMBER 1985

4 Airmail 4 Index to Advertisers 11 Update 42 Classified Advertising

What Can You Do With The World's Best Glider? IMPROVE IT!

W.A. ROECKER, PHOTO

BOB TRAMPENAU, Plli°T '

At Seedwings research and develop~ent is paramount. Now the kingpost suspension system, with its single pivo~ point, has been perfected and component load-tested, and is being delivered on all ~ew Sensor B models. Handling pressures with the KSS become SQ easy that withl tbe VG in full tight position the Sensor has lighter handling than other gliders tha~ are loose-tuned. We won't say it's a dream, because this is real! The KSS offers poritJve, feather-light handling, the strength of a sleeved kingpost, and less frontal drag at, higher speeds than conventional hang points. The kingpost suspension syste8' works so well we predict all gliders that can be adapted to this method will be outfifte:d in this manner over the next few months. What does it mean when performa~ce, handling and quality are combined with dependable support? It means value, th;e product that lasts longer and performs better. Your next glider should have th+ world's best performance AND the world's ~he best glider is the best value. Make your best handling. Here's the bottom line next glider a Sensor 510-B. Order youris early and you can be flying the best before I the spring rush. '85 Masters of Hang Gliding $t Qrandfather Mountain - 1st, 2nd, 3rd

-+ I

•

'85 U.S. World ~~11' - 1st, by Mark Bennett '85 Manufacturers - 1st anr 2~d, by Stew Smith and Rich Pfeiffer

5760 Thornwood Drive #3 • Santa Barbara, CA 93117

(8os> 967-4848

I I

• SEEDWINGS

Gil Dodgen, Editor/Art Director Janie Dodgen, Production David Pounds, Design Consultant Leroy Grannis, Bettina Gray, John Heiney, Staff Photographers Erik Fair, Staff Writer Harry Martin, lllustrator Office Staff: Amy Gray, Manager Joyce Isles, Ratings Lars Jacobsen, Membership

USHGA Officers: Russ Loclfo, President Dick Heckman, Vice President Bob Collins, Secretary Dan Johnson, Treasurer Executive Committee: Russ Locke Dick Heckman Bob Collins Dan Johnson REGION I: Ken Godwin, T. Michael Boyle. REGION 2: Russ Locke, Gary Hodges. REGION 3: Sreve Hawxtmrst, Ken deRussy. REG[ON 4: Jim Zeiset, Bob Thompson. REGION 5: Mike King. REGfON 6;

Ted Gilmore. REGION 7: Dean Batman, John Woiwode. REGION 8: Robert Collins. REGION 9: Bill Criste, WW. Richards. REGION 10: Dan Johnson, Steve Coan. REGION 11: Hardy Snyman. REGION 12: Ken Zachara, Paul Rikert. 198'1 DlRECTORS-AT-LARGE: Dennis Pagen, Dick Heckman, EJi,abeth Sharp, Vic Powell, Mark Bennett. EX-OFFICIO DlRECTOR: (With Vote) NATIONAL AERONAUTIC ASSOCIATION Everett Langworthy. HONORARY DIRECTORS (Without Vote) elected to 12/31/85: Bill Bennett, Mike Meier, Doug HHdtelh, Bettina Gray. Erik Fair. The United States

Hang Gliding Association Inc.j is a division of the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) which is the official U.S. representative of the Federation Aeronaulique Interna!ionale (FAD, the world governing body for sport aviation. The NAA, which represents the U.S. at FA! Meetings, has delegated ta the USHGA supervision of PAI-related hang gliding activities such as re.cord attempts and competition sanctions.

HANG GLIDING magazine is published for hang gliding sport enthusiasts to create further interest in the sport, by a means of open communication and to advance hang gliding methods and safety. Contributions are welcome. Anyone is invited to contribute articles, photos. and illustrations concerning hang gliding activities. If the material is to be returned, a stamped, self-addressed return envelope must be endosed. Notification must be made of submission to other hang gliding publications. HANG GLIDING magazine reserves the right to edit contributions where necessary. The Association and publication do not assume responsibility for the material or opinions of contributors. HANG GLIDING magazine is published monthly by the United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc. whose mailing address is P.O, Box 66306, Los Angeles, Calif. 90066 and whose offices are located at ll423 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, Calif. 90066; telephone (213) 390-3065. Second-dass postage is paid at Los Angeles, Calif. and at additional mailing offices. The typesetting is provided by !st Impression Typesetting Service, Buena Park, Calif. The USHOA is a member-controlled educational and scientific organization dedicated to exploring all facets of ultralight flight. Membership is open to anyone interested in this realm of flight. Dues for full membership are $39.00 per year ($42.00 for foreign addresses); subscription rates are $29.00 for one year, $53.00 for "'" years, $77.00 for three years. Changes of address should be sent six weeks in advance, including name, USHGA membership number, previous and new address, and a mailing label from a recent issue< POSTMASTER: SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: USHOA, P.O. BOX 66306, LOS ANGELES, CA 90066.

DECEMBER ]985

VIEWPOINT

Fall 1985 Board of Directors Meeting by USHGA President Russ Locke The 1985 Fall Board of Directors meeting took place in Kansas City, MO October 25 through the 28th. It was attended by 17 out of the 25 voting directors (Pete Fournia was voted in to replace Ken Zachara in region 12). Listed below is a brief summary of items approved by the Board. SAFETY AND TRAINING: According to Doug Hildreth's latest accident review there have been eight fatalities so far this year. The accident rate also seems to be up from last year, especially for experienced pilots. The problems are the usual: strong weather, failure to hook in and stalls, both on launch and on landing. There were four reports of accidents involving French connections (speed rails) and there are reports of aluminum carabiner failures. There have been several requests by pilots for more information on tandem flying (two of the deaths reported above were the result of a tandem accident near Las Vegas). The Board accepted the offer of Joe Greblo to head a committee to accumulate and organize a tandem information package. If you have any input, send your comments to the office and we'll see that Joe gets them. COMPETITION RULES AND WORLD TEAM: A flaw in the Competition Points System became obvious when the scores were tallied after the Nationals at Chelan. A resolution was not reached at this meeting, but a deadline for a solution was set December 31, 1985. Shortly after that, the rule books will be printed. Some of the other changes made to the rule book included: eliminating the CPS points for meet directors, parachutes and helmets will be required at sanctioned meets and the world team will be selected 100 % from the Competition Points system. Contact Liz Sharp if you wish to know all the changes before the rule books are printed in January. CIVL: The Federation Aeronatique Internationale (FAI) which governs hang

gliding competitions worldwide has applied for membership to the International Olympic Committee. This is the first step towards becoming an Olympic sport. The subject is fairly controversial, so progress will probably be very slow if at all. The next world championships will be held at Mt. Buffalo, Australia. The date will be in the month of December, 1987. NATIONAL COORDINATING: Our work and discussions with the FAA are finally paying off. The FAA is in the process of proposing new regulations governing powered ultralights. Included will be mandatory vehicle registration, pilot licensing, and certification standards. These regulations will not apply to hang gliders. We will continue to operate under Part 103 and will finally and legally be separated from ultralights. INSURANCE: The insurance industry in this country is going through a very difficult period. It is likely that these problems will reach us in the near future. On the good side, our present insurance carrier has discovered that some time ago we overpaid a previous insurance company. We have received $2,300 back already and are expecting another $3,000 any day. PUBLICATIONS: We have a new printer, American Web Offset in Denver, Colorado. That change will save us about $1,500 per month (not including the savings that may be made by mailing from Denver). The quality of the paper and the color in the magazine will also be improved with this printer. F1NANCE: We are still without an accurate financial statement, but the bills appear to be getting paid and there is money in the bank. We expect to have an accurate cash flow analysis within thirty days. We do have enough information to make some general comments. We are not out of the woods yet, but the trend is positive. To those of you who responded to Eric Fair's (and others) pleas for donations, rest assured that you were a 3

VIEWPOINT major factor in the organization's continuing on as well as it has the last six months. BYLAWS: the appointment of Observers and Examiners will now be for a period of two years instead of reappointing them every year as has been done in the past. GENERAL BUSINESS: The most significant change is that the Board of Directors voted to create the position of Executive Director. We will be hiring a professional manager whose responsibilities will include creating and implementing programs that are designed to increase revenues and membership of the organization. We have struggled with the concept of office manager for a number of years. That concept is designed to manage the Association's business as efficiently and inexpensively as possible and for the most part has been successful. It is time to come out of our shell and aggressively go after positive programs that will strengthen our organization. This Executive Director concept is being used very successfully by many organizations including our brothers, the Soaring Society of America. Elections for 1986 were also held at this meeting. Elected to the position of Director at Large were Rob Kells, Dan Johnson, Dennis Pagen, Vic Powell and Elizabeth Sharp. Honorary Directors elected were Eric Fair, Doug Hildreth and Walt Dodge. There are three new faces on the Executive committee. President is Russ Locke, Secretary is Bob Collins and Treasurer is Dan Johnson. Dick Heckman remains as our Vice President. Next year, 1986, will be a year of challenge for us. There are many storm clouds ahead, but consistent with that type of weather, there will also be strong lift. If we are successful in navigating through all this, we will be able to look back upon this year with a strong sense of accomplishment and more importantly, a smile on our faces. •

WEATHER INFO Dear Editor, In the August and October issues of Soaring magazine letters were printed which support a massive letter writing campaign to the cable television weather service known as The

AIRMAIL Weather Channel. I am sure many hang glider pilots who subscribe to this service have found that it is useful but would like to see more soaringrelated. information such as a thermal index map or stability map. The Weather Channel has already received many requests for such a service in the past and is considering it. Let's give them a little extra push in the right direction by all writing to request "lower atmosphere thermal/stability information." By taking a few minutes to express your interest in this idea you may be rewarded with better weather information in 1986 and beyond. Send letters to: The Weather Channel, 2840 Mt. Wilkinson Parkway, Suite 200, Atlanta, Georgia 30339, Attention: Director of Operations. Dean Williams Farmington, CT

ANGELS

Dear Editor, Sorting today's mail I found the October issue of Hang Gliding. Immediately my face drew a smile, then my heart started to palpitate faster. Soon the warmest tears slid over my cheeks. That picture on the cover, I understood too well the expression of the youngster experiencing his flight, a flight from cruel reality to the boundless realm of human kindness. I recognize my friends. What they accomplished is just evidence that there is room for love outside ourselves. Beautiful ... heaven reaches the ground too. Moises Salmun Hebe S. Salmun Woodland Hills, CA

SUSPENSION CHECK Dear Editor, A few weeks ago I was nose man for aoout fifteen pilots at Mt. Ascutney, Vermont. All of them were at least Hang 3 pilots. Four of them had serious problems with some part of their parachute systems. Too had their bridles over the gate of their carabiner and the gates faced backwards. Another had his handle positioned in a way that would have made it impossible to throw his chute. The last was a Hang 4 Observer with an oval non-locking

carabiner. The worst part was that these pilots have been flying like this without the nose person noticing. The hang check should go further than just looking to see if the pilot is hooked in. I've also found some pilots with their bridles on the opposite side from which they would throw it. Also, on some of the new harnesses you can't see the thigh straps. Ask the pilot if they're on. The nose person should tell the pilot if something looks wrong with the glider or suspension. It could save a life. George Crowe Claremont, NH

PHOTO CREDIT Dear Editor, I forgot to give credit to the photographer for the pictures in my Crescendo landing article in the October issue. Joyce Rail happened to catch me landing at Pinecrest Air Park near San Bernardino, CA. Dan Skadal Santa Ana, CA

Index To Advertisers Airwave .............................. 11 Airworks ............................. 44 Ball Varios .......................... .41 Bennett Delta Wing Gliders ......... 41, BC Hall Brothers ......................... 41 High Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Kitty Hawk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Kitty Hawk West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Litek ................................ 8 Mission Soaring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Pacific Windcraft ...................... 10 Pagen Books .......................... 39 Para Publishing ........................ 11 Publitek .............................. 8 Santa Barbara HG ..................... 8 Seedwings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Skylife .............................. .44 Systems Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 USHGA ........................ IBC, IFC Wills Wing ........................... 5

Ad Deadlines All ad copy, instructions, changes, additions and cancellations must be received in writing Jlh months preceding the cover date, i.e., Mar. 20 for the May issue.

HANG GLIDING

PILOT: RON YOUNG

PHOTO BY: LEROY GRANNIS

When it comes to competition class hang glider performance, you've got two choices. You can talk about it or you can demonstrate it. Over the last twelve months, we have the following evidence to offer on behalf of the demonstrated performance of the Wills Wing HP.

1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st

Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP Wills Wing HP

1986 USHGA #1 Ranked Pilot Rick Rawlings 1985 Canadian Nationals Mark Bourbonais 1985 Telluride Aerobatic Meet Mitch McAleer 1985 Wings of Rogallo XC Contest Russ Douglas 1985 Grouse Mountain Aerobatic Meet Mitch McAleer 1985 US National Champion Rick Rawlings 1985 US Nationals World Class Champion Rick Rawlings 1985 Owens Valley George Worthington Memorial XC Open Jim Zeiset 1985 Longest XC Flight in US - 198 Miles Rick Rawlings 1985 B.C. Championships Willi Muller 1985 Cochrane Cup (In Progress) Cliff Kakish 1985 Region 2 Championships Steve Roderick 1985 Region 12 Championships Paul Voight 1984 Tennessee Great Race Rob Kells

HP PERFORMANCE It's a matter of record

~LU-..,,,.,;Nt; 1208H E. Walnut Santa Ana, CA 92701 New dealership opportunities are now available. If you are interested in a Wills Wing Dealership, and you are, or would like to become a USHGA Certified Instructor please call us today.

well remember the I entered into the marvelous sport of being a Driver. I'd been the bars as usual and the eighth macho num who tried to me up, with a sucked-in stomach and puffed-up chest, started telling me that he was a hang glider pilot. "Well, what do you do after you've finishand stuck on the ground ed somewhere?" I asked. "Oh, we need a driver to get back to launch," he said. "Oh, answered, "Well, I've got a 4-whccl drive, "'""'-··~"' Hcmi-underdual exhaust CF7 carry ladders." "I love you!" he yelled. That first drive up to a launch was specat 70 miles per hour what tacular, challenge! The dirt road, boulders, washouts and fallen trees, the I ,()(JO foot drop mi the right. was horn to this! But my pilot beside me with arms glued around the rollbar and wrapped around the seal looked more like a chicken than an With my mounting over the years I became a Hang V Driver. No pilot has ever finished breaking down his before l was there. No matter where they go cross··country over mountain or desert or I've never lost one. some say I shouldn't count lhe one I shot down before he could cross a river without This morning as I tear through the set-up area I'm amazed at how fast those pilots with in my path can pick them up and run. to a hault in front of launch so my pilot can be first off I exit my streamlined, powerful vehicle and, after 6

my from the roll.bar, help him remove his toy from my jeep. I wait for him to launch I look at the Wuffos with their awe-struck stares at the in the air. "Poor naive cretins," think. "What do they know of true guts and ... of a Driver." I reenter my vehicle and hook in my belt. pilot is on launch. now, gas oil pressure (check), cmergcm.y brake off (check). I tightly my wheel, with anticipation. And then, waif~ on the wind I hear it "Clear!" And my gas pedal to the floor, a rooster tail of rocks and dirt air which showers down on the Wuffos. What excitement! What I race down the mountain whipping around obstacles, curves at 80 miles per hour. I take whatever the road throws at me. But, what's this'/ a break in the t recs I my idiot pilot has lost the lift Oh no, he's heading out to land and I've got 10 miles to travel. the pedal even farther to the floor I fly. "I'rn not to make it to the before he's finished think in anguish. In jam my vehicle into four·" wheel-drive and across the fields I go. It's difficult to penetrate through the sixfoot-high corn but I'm on my pilot. Out of the corn and the fence I maneuver my chariot to the next field where collect enough wool on my front to knit a sweater. And then there it is, dead ahead, the Ian·· field. up down ahead at the pilot. Oil

above me, in. I can't is about to out at the intruder, But, with his face and mouth he's still throw my wheel hard to the follows my move so turn sound and back to the left. There's a foot protrudes for a moment my in my rear-view mirror sec the has only twice and crumbled on "#@--#@--#&:!'! !!" hear, under the folded sail. "Well," should have there."

a crunch under my wheels from never learn to put left out battens. "Will thcn1 in the woods, in the undcrbmsh with

on the sails of the other belt Once and won. the road the thrill of

Gum NG

Hang Gliding According to Pfeiffer: Skills For the Advancing Pilot Now available ... the most comprehensive guide around for pilots seeking to expand their knowledge and skills. With 244 pages, 125 illustrations and photographs, loads of TRUE stories, and a complete subject index. You'll learn . About soaring: Ridge, thermal, wave and other iypes of lift. Locating likely lift sources. "Reading" clouds. Soaring techniques for various kinds of lift. About cross-counlryflylng: XC potential of your area. Training and supplies for your ground crew. Advance planning. When THE day arrives. During the flight. About competition flying: Competition formats and scoring systems. Psych-out techniques. Evaluating opponents. Strategies. Specific flying techniques. About equipment: Choosing, caring for, and making best use of a glider, harness, parachute, instruments, and other equipment. Sail cloth lips. About speed-to-fly calculations: Dolphin vs. classic flight. Your glider's polar. Techniques for gliding fur1hest, fastest. Speed rings.

ACHIM J. HAGEMAN

$1095.00

RIO DE JANEIRO CARNAVAL

Feb. 7 -

Feb. 14, 1986 $1,995.00

NEW ZEALAND

Jan. 20 -

Feb. 10, 1986

$ 779.00

HAWAII

Jan. 28 -

Feb. 4, 1986 $1,795.00

EUROPE 5 COUNTRIES

May 20 - June 10, 1986

Please rush me _ _ _ copies of Hang Gliding According to Pfeiffer: Skills For the Advancing PIiot at $9.95 each, plus shipping and handling: $1.00 first copy,$ .25 each additional (airmail $2.50 first copy, $1.00 each additional). Californians please add $ .60 sales tax per copy. Total enclosed: $ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Name: Street: City: State/Zip _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Make check payable to Publitec and mail with form to: Publitec Editions, P.O. Box 4342, Laguna Beach, CA 92652, USA.

FOR INFO PAK SENO

$3.00 TO:

SANTA BARBARA HANG GLIDING CENTER 486 Alan Rd., Santa Barbara, California 93109

... Dealer inquiries invited - 714/497-6100 ...

(805) 687-3119

DON'T MISS THE LATEST ISSUE BY FAILING TO NOTIFY USHGA OF YOUR CHANGE OF ADDRESS! NAME

USHGA# _ _ __

OLD ADDRESS Our time proven instrument is no,.. in a ....-rist-r:iount package, The V~l2 has the following features: - Price is only $169,00 - Available with the -0\' option (earphone Jack) at 179,00, - Adjus~able sink al.arn trip point. - Large easy to read r1etet" face {we are kno\.ln for that already) with the sar.1e dial face as bei'ore, - The zero setting, s1nk alarm trip point, sensitivlty calibration and volume of optional earphone jack are all adjustable from outside of

the unlt, There ls never a need to dlsassenble lt, - Body of unlt is 3-1/2" x 2-1/2" x 1-1/2", - Can be upgraded to -0\1 option at later date, - Can be glider mounted - Long battery life as before, - Uses the same proven circuitry ve have used for tMny years so it responds as quick and stable as previous nodels, VE12 varior-eter 169,00 \IE12-0V variometer 179,00 VE7 variomater 169,00 VE35 varior!!eter 198,00 -OV Earphone Jack retrofit kit 16, 75 The Earphone Jack can be installed by you (needs a soldering iron) or by us on any variof".leter '.le made, It consists of a postage star.ip size PC board \lith parts and 2 vi res on it, We charge 5 ,00 for 24 hour installation,

CITY ·------STATE _ _ ZIP _ __ NEW ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ CITY

______ STATE _ _ ZIP _ __

LAST ISSUE RECEIVED _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Please allow four weeks for Processing)

Notify USHGA Early! Please Note: You must notify your post office that you will pay forwarding postage on your second class mail or you may miss an issue.

USHGA, Box 6,6306, Los Angeles, CA 90066

FLAT CIRCULAR SOLID GORE CONST. <> High Drag Benefits

e Low Volume @

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VENT CAP COVERING APEX HOLE

ild Our Harnesses Parachutes to the toughest standards we can f .1 ... our own.'

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ALL SEAMS REINFORCED WITH TYPE Ill WEBBING @

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Dealer or:

2236 W. 2nd St. @ Santa Ana, CA 92703 (714) 972-8186

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FLYING TOUR December 28 - January 5 Build your hang gliding experience this winter and have fun flying five or more of Southern California's premier sites. Traveling with a small group, you will be introduced to all flying sites by a guide and advanced USHGA certified instructor. This gives you the best opportunity to learn new sites. Southern California has more consistent winter flying than almost anywhere. All sites on the tour have easy launches and large landing fields. Trip includes: *Guide Service *Coaching on thermalling & other advanced techniques * Rating Tels *Rides Up *Retrieval * Accommodation and Camping Fees Sites: Sylmar I Kagel I Crestline I Elsinore I Torrey Pines (Hang IV) I Little Black Min. I Blossom Valley

FLY WITH THE BEST SYSTEM AVAILABLE ... FLY WITH

For Advanced Hang II thru Hang IV. Call for details. Cost $350.00.

2'¥~

Jim Johns at Kitty Hawk Kites, Hwy #1Reservation Rd., P.O. Box 828, Marina, CA

2236 W.2nd Street

1111

Santa Ana, CA92703

93933 (408) 384-2622.

(714) 972-8186

I 0-15,000 FT Altlmeler

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Dual Batteries

HANG GUDING MANAGER Minimum requirements USHGA. Instructor Rating Basic Instructor Rating, Teaching. Management & Sales Experience Postion open now on East Coast

HANG GLIDING. WINDSURFING &

SAILING INSTRUCTORS Chris Pyle

Certification preferred. Positions will begin opening in March '86 at East Coast and West Coast locations

Looking for compact, simple, stowoble pitch control ? Get a Speed Roil:M Reduced pull-in effort. Flat body attitude for less drag. Static food tested to IOG's. $ 78""'complete. Aw:iilable from: 43551 MISSION BLVD.

FREMONT, CA

9453 9

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SEND RHUMIE TO: KITTY HAWK KITES P.O. Box 340

Nags Head. N.C. 27959 ATTN: John H111rrl11 OR PO Box 828 Marina. CA 93333

UPDATE HANG GLIDING SHOW Doug Rice has combined his eight years of hang gliding experience (with three years of instructing) and his experience in photography to produce a video version of his sound/slide show presentation on hang gliding that was recently shown at the Masters. The show received rave reviews. The show combines three four-minute songs and 155 colorful slides in an inspirational twelve minutes. Doug feels that the show would be of value to schools in inspiring students. VCR copies are made from a 314-inch master. Price is $35 plus $2 shipping and handling. Contact: Doug Rice, Route 6, Box 1845, Raleigh, NC 27612.

PACIFIC WINDCRAFT LTD. UNVEILS NEW VISION-ECLIPSE

In response to the "white knuckle syndrome" of today's high performance gliders, Pacific Windcraft has released their new Vision-Eclipse. "We have unlimited expectations for our new wing," says Jean-Michel Barnasconi, president of Pacific Windcraft. "It offers the optimal blend of high performance/cross country flying with the anxiety-free forgivability of the timeproven Vision." The Vision-Eclipse features a 40% wider leading edge foam pocket containing an exclusive new foam insert designed to provide airfoil support and definition comparable to half ribs. Other state-of-the-art components include the new Safe-Edge faired uprights with soft rubber trailing edge section, speed bar, and two unique variable geometry/camber devices engineered to increase high speed

DECEMBER 1985

performance retention as well as parachutability for landings in tight areas. The Vision-Eclipse has no keel pocket. Jointly designed by Bob England and Jean-Michel Bernasconi - who between them have 23 years of design experience - the new glider is the product of one full year of development, six prototypes, 250 hours of flight testing and 50 hours of vehicle testing. For further information, color brochures, and/or test-flight appointment, please contact your nearest Pacific Windcraft dealer or: Pacific Windcraft, P.O. Box 4384, Salinas, CA 93912 (408) 422-2299. Dealer inquires invited.

"SANTA CLOTHS" COMES TO PACIFIC WINDCRAFT LTD. Preparations for the upcoming 1986 season for Pacific Windcraft Ltd. included the purchase of over 15,000 yards of sailcloth recently. "It neatly solved several problems at once," explained Jean-Michel Bernasconi, president of Pacific Windcraft. "We wanted to insure a full range of color choices and availability for our customers at all times, and we wanted to focus more energy on production and less on purchasing. This move gave us both." Representing approximately a year's production, the sailcloth stock features all standard colors as well as numerous specialty colors such as pacific blue, electric blue, silver, pink, black-gold,

Para Publishing Books by Dan Poynter Post Office Box 4232-314 Santa Barbara, Ca 93103 Telephone: (805) 968-7277

Send For FREE Brochure

sequoia, and crayola. Yardage is available for purchase in limited quantities. Contact: Pacific Windcraft, P.O. Box 4384, Salinas, CA 93912 (408) 422-2299.

NEW ZEALAND OPEN The New Zealand Hang Gliding Association extends an invitation to suitably experienced pilots to compete in the 1986 New Zealand Hang Gliding Open Championships. The competition will be held February 8 to 22, 1986 at Coronet Peak, 15 kilometers from Queenstown. The competition will be based on cross country flying in accordance with the FAI class one rules, Contact: New Zealand Open, c/o NZHGA, P.O. Box 817, Wellington, New Zealand.

CARNAVAL IN RIO '86 The Santa Barbara Hang Gliding Center has added another trip to Rio De Janeiro during Carnaval 1986 from February 7-14, 1986. Carnaval tour features include round trip airfare, accommodations, tour escort, transportation, retrieval and lots of air time. The greatest show on earth is an all-night parade that rivals anything presented in any parade around the world. Contact: Achim Hageman, Santa Barbara Hang Gliding Center, 29 State St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 687-3119. Price: $1,095 NY, $1,225 LA.

US Airwave Olfers: , Dealer Service •

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for the M Ill & IV featuring • Revolulmnary Hardware • • Proven Competition Record • • Recrealional &Comp. Options• • US Tubing Sizes• • European Cert1f1cat1on , Wrrle for rnfo Pack lo Airwave Glider PO Box 1153 • Mercer Island. WA 98040

206-622-8132 • 537-2297 • Telex 296585 800 Mercer• Seattle. WA 98109 Dealers Inquire

CHRISTOPHER BULGER March 5, 1965 July 17, 1985 "The Northwest's Finest Pilot"

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1986

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Bob England plays the air in his Pacific Windcraft VISION-ECLIPSE over Gilroy, California. Photo by Jean-Michel Bernasconi. Sponsored by: PACIFIC WINDCRAFT, P.O. Box 4384, Salinas, CA 93912 (408) 422-2299.

February Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

1986

Friday

Saturday

WASHINGTON'S BIRTHDAY OBSERVED

LINCOLN'S BIRTHDAY ASH WEDNESDAY

VALENTINES DAY

JANUARY S M T W T

1986

F S

1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 5 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

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MARCH S M T W T

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Woody Woodruff and his Delta Wing MYSTIC 177 with a time exposure at Torrey Pines, CA. Photo by the pilot. Sponsored by: DELTA WING KITES AND GLIDERS, P.O. Box 483, Van Nuys, CA 91408 (818) 787-6600.

March Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

1986 Saturday

EASTER SUNDAY

ST. PATRICKS DAY

GOOD FRIDAY

FEBRUARY s M T W T

1986

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Steve Moyes pilots the new Moyes GTR 175. Photo by Masakazu Watanabe. Sponsored by: MOYES CALIFORNIA, 22021 Covello Street, Canoga Park, CA 91303

April Sunday

1986

(818) 887-3361.

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APRIL FOOLS DAY

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Saturday

PASSOVER

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1986

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Jay Busby pilots his 160 Duck at a scenic Northern California site overlooking Mount Shasta. Photo by Bob Reiter. Sponsored by: CHANDELLE SAN FRANCISCO, 488 Manor Plaza, Pacifica, CA 94044 (415) 359-6800.

May Sunday

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Tuesday

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1986

Friday

Saturday

MOTHER'S DAY

MEMORIAL DAY (OBSERVED)

LINDBERG'S FLIGHT-1927

1986

APRIL

JUNE

1986

F S

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20 21

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•

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William McKellar Ill pilots his Seedwings SENSOR 510-B V.G. from the "Eliminator" launch near Santa Barbara, CA. Photo by Bob Trampenau. Sponsored by: SEEDWINGS, 5760 Thornwood Drive #3, Santa Barbara, CA 93117 (805) 967-4848.

1986

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

FATHER'S DAY

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MAY S M T

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JULY S M T

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1986

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FLAG DAY

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1986

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: ~of

July

~~o'laCCa

Sunday

Monday

Howard Betts launches from Hull Mountain, CA. Photo by Dave Stubbs. Sponsored by: WINGS OF ROGALLO.

Tuesday

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1986 Saturday

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Brian Craig sunset soaring at Lake Travis, Austin, Tx. Photo by Hardy Snyman. INSETS: Left - Bob Casto launches under boat tow at Lake Livingston, TX. Photo by Len Smith. Right - Mike Reedy begins an auto-tow launch with Hewett bridle. Photo by Robert Funk. Sponsored by: PACKSADDLE SOARING ASSN., HOUSTON HANG GLIDING ASSN., NORTH TEXAS HANG GLIDING ASSN. and DONNELL HEWEIT

August Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

1986

Friday

Saturday

~--

JULY

1986

M T W T 2

10 11

14 15

SEPTEMBER S M T W T 7

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10 11

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16 17 18 19

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22 23 24 25 26 27

29 30

27 28 29 30 31

UNITED STATES HANG GLIDING ASSOCIATION, INC.

1 6

20 21

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t---

Capitol

-~~ Hang i~~-~i,,i: G·

Septetnber

·I ~ l,der ' ~..-,: - Association

",J'l..~: ~--

Skip Brown pilots his HP at High Rock, Maryland. Photo by Tom Jones. Sponsored by: PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL OF HANG GLIDING, WW HANG GLIDING SALES, VIC POWELL, MARYLAND HANG GLIDING ASSOCIATION and CAPITOL HANG GLIDING ASSOCIATION.

1986

P.O. Ho, 880H. lfock1•1/k, Ml) 20H5b

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

LABOR DAY

Friday

Saturday

AUGUST S

1986

OCTOBER S

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13 14

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19 20 21

22 23 24 25

22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29

27 28 29 30 31

UNITED STATES HANG GLIDING ASSOCIATION, INC.

1986

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Soaring the big one - the Grand Canyon. Photo by Bob Thompson. Sponsored by: ARIZONA HANG GLIDER ASSOCIATION, 4319 W. Larkspur, Glendale, AZ 85304.

October Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Saturday 4

Friday

ROSH HASHANAH

UNITED NATIONS DAY

HALLOWEEN

COLUMBUS DAY {OBSERVED) YOM KIPPUR

1986

SEPTEMBER S M T W T

1986

10 11

14 15

17 18 19 20

7 21

12 13

22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30

NOVEMBER s M T W T

1 2

10 11

16 17 18

12 13 14 15 19 20 21

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

UNITED STATES HANG GLIDING ASSOCIATION, INC.

1986

P.O. BOX 66306, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90066

Bruce Bolles enjoying the view at Lake City, Minnesota. Launch is on far end of ridge in center. Photo by Ralph Karsten. Sponsored by: NORTHERN SKY GLIDERS

Novetnber Sunday

Monday

1986

ASSOCIATION.

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1

ELECTION DAY

VETERANS DAY

THANKSGIVING DAY

OCTOBER S M T W T

10 11

14 15

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12 13 14

19 20 21

22 23 24

26 27 28 29

30 31

1986

DECEMBER S M T W T 1

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1986

22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

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Flying La Cumbre Peak near Santa Barbara, California. Photo by Ines E. Roberts. Sponsored by: SANTA BARBARA HANG GLIDING ASSOCIATION, 613 N. Mi/pas St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103.

Decen1ber Sunday

1986

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

WRIGHT BROS. FLIGHT - 1903

CHRISTMAS

Friday

Saturday

HANUKKAH

NEW YEAR'S EVE

NOVEMBER s M T W T

JANUARY S M T W T

1986

10 11

14 15

17 18

19 20 21

23 24 25 26 27 28

25 26 27 28 29

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12 13 14 15 16 17

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1987

22 23 24 30 31

Scratchin'

'11 be the first to admit that my flying fantasies consist of vario-pegging thermals that carry me to 12,000 feet under a cloud street that stretches beyond the horizon. Naturally, I cruise that aerial avenue for hours and land two states away to claim a world XC record. That's my type of flying. On the other hand, there's something to be said for flying at the opposite end of the spectrum. When the lift is only teasing and brave men are falling out of the sky, if you manage to stay up, you've accomplished something equally worthy of a fantasy. We call such flying scratching for lift or simply scratchin'. Scratchin' involves trolling for thermals, playing the terrain and grasping at each wayward puff of lift. To be a good light-air pilot you must have a resource of aerial wisdom, utilize deft controls and practice an economy of motion. Intuition may play no small role. Experience is the ultimate teacher, but some techniques can be related. Let's take the nickle tour.

SCRATCHIN' CONDITIONS Moving air provides our kicks (sometimes literally). When the vertical motion of the air is greater than our sink rate, we stay up. Sometimes the lift hovers right around that magical minimum sink rate value and we need all the skill we can muster to soar. It is interesting to note what the required air movement is for soaring to take place. If we assume our modern gliders achieve between 180 and 200 feet per minute minimum sink rate (depending on wing loading), this easily translates to between 2.0 and 2.4 miles per hour. Think about it. We require less than 21h mph of vertical air movement to stay up. Most people can barely detect a wind that light. Indeed, there have been times when I have soared when no wind was detectable at launch. I think the key here is the steepness of the site which directs an upslope breeze almost straight up by the time it reaches the 36

top of the hill or·mountain. An upslope breeze caused by the sun's heating is also known as a valley wind or anabatic flow. This is one of the three common conditions which are often associated with scratchin'. Only in very hot, dry climes or on higher mountains do anabatic winds accelerate enough to provide sure and effortless soaring. Anabatic winds are generally confined to a few hundred feet from the mountain face - often much less. The second source of light lift is the upward deflection of wind by a mountain ridge or hill. We'll refer to this simply as ridge lift. When the wind is light, the hill is low, shallow or a combination of these factors, scratchin' is in order. The third source of scratchin' conditions is weak thermals. Weak thermals are caused by anemic solar heating, moist ground or a poor lapse rate. (Lapse rate is the temperature drop with altitude. A good lapse rate means the temperature drops rapidly with increasing altitude.) On a day when the air is unstable (good lapse rate) time may be required before the ground heats to thermal triggering temperature. Often the early thermals will only rise so far before they dissipate in the inversion layer left over from the previous night. It may take them some time before they reach the altitude of your takeoff point, yet be workable on the way down if you get impatient and opt for a sled ride. This daily buildup is illustrated in figure 1. Many pilots are not aware of the fact that thermals can occur when the general airmass is stable. In this situation, intense solar heating will cause a local instability by heating the air in a layer directly above the ground. This heated air begins to overturn and rise just like a thermal on an unstable day. However, as this thermal rises it loses bouyancy as its cooling by expansion is greater than the reduction of temperature of the surrounding air. The thermal decelerates as it r-ises and bouyancy is lost. Thermals

encountered in these types of conditions are very often columns that keep up a steady pumping of light, workable lift. Many pilots who have scratched above a rock pile for a half hour will recognize this condition. It should be made clear that any combination of the three listed sources of scratchable lift is possible. Each of these conditions tends to modify the others. For example, if a wind is blowing into a ridge, thermals will be collected at that ridge and probably not be found over the nearby valley. Also, anabatic flow will tend to promote the production and alter the path of thermals.

THE GAME PLAN Before we proceed with actual scratchin' pointers, let's look at the overall philosophy and discuss equipment. Our first thought when required to stay up by our perverse desire for air time despite barely maintainable conditions is to push out, slow down and achieve minimum sink rate. This is proper with some exceptions. To begin, we must avoid a stall at all costs. Stalls close to the terrain (which you usually are when scratchin' on a ridge) are dangerous. If the air is textured, there is even greater chance of a stall and loss of control. Furthermore, in varying air, flying mini-. mum sink speed may not produce the overall minimum sink rate. When lift and sink are present, the best philosophy is to spend as much time in the lift and as little time in the sink as possible. This requires dolphin flight techniques (when flying straight) or speedsto-fly principles. The essential idea is to speed up in sink and slow up in lift. How much speed depends on the velocity of the air. See Hang Gliding Techniques by this author or previous articles in Hang Gliding magazine for more information on this important concept. Finally, in turbulent conditions with little lift it may be impossible to achieve minimum sink speed due to the necessity to improve handling with speed. This situation often ocHANG GLIDING

curs when the wind is crossing a ridge. Usually you will feel more secure flying upwind along such a ridge than downwind, if only because your ground speed is less. In this case, milk the lift while heading upwind and maintain special vigilance to avoid a stall when heading downwind. A few other points to add to our game plan are: maintain the high ground, know your site and fly conservatively. If all other matters are equal, the highest part of a slope will produce the best lift due to anabatic flow and ridge lift, especially late in the day. If wind is present, the high ground will also collect more thermals. It certainly helps to know the site you are trying to scratch at so as to know the location of the house thermals and other peculiarities relating to lift production. Finally, we mention flying conservatively for flying in light conditions is no time to go wandering off in search of greener air. Stay with any patch of lift you find until it dies unless you see another nearby pilot passing by on an up elevator.

SCRATCHIN' GEAR Here we'll say a few words about what to take with you when you step into the gently wafting air. The most obvious item is a glider. This glider should - and again we

state the obvious - have a good sink rate. The better the sink rate, the better the scratchability. You can get a good sink rate by having a light wing loading (that is, small pilot, big glider) although you will be limited in stronger conditions. Higher performance gliders with less drag also tend to have better sink rates. Airfoil shapes play a role in sink rate performance, with deeper camber and further forward high points usually producing superior sink rates. Finally, good handling is a prerequisite for good scratching capabilities if the air is bubbly. No one glider can combine all of these desirable traits to the utmost, so it should be clear that different gliders may excel in different conditions. The next piece of luggage I recommend is a sensitive variometer. When flying low, many pilots do well without a vario, since they can sense lift by watching the terrain. However, when working weak lift over the flats, a vario is invaluable. I prefer a vario with a minimum lag time when I'm scratchin'. I want my vario to help me map out the amorphous lift patterns on a constant basis. I want right-now response. When my Altzheimer's disease isn't acting up, I use my short term memory to discern lift cycles at different points along the ridge

(the length of the cycles varies from day to day) with the aid of my vario. The final piece of equipment I'll mention is a good altimeter. I use mine to give me a time lapse picture of my progress. An alitmeter is a variometer integrater (that's for you math buffs). Use it to see how your game is progressing. Not so good? Maybe it's time to change the channel.

SCRATCHIN' ON A RIDGE We will use a ridge to mean a mountain, hill, cliff, slope, rise, dune, knoll, mesa, mound, cordillera, range, down, hummock or any combination thereof. Let's first concentrate on anabatic flow and ridge lift. We begin with a takeoff, a most important part of scratchin'. A maximum umph takeoff is required in minimum conditions. Umph translated from the German is "run your ass off." The more energy you put into the system, the more you can pay off to climb out initially. When it's really light, a powerful takeoff can make a difference. In scratchin' conditions it is often necessary to turn immediately after takeoff to stay in the lift band. Many inexperienced pilots fuss with their harness or require a while to settle down before they can turn to parallel the ridge top. This is a mistake,

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especially in light anabatic flow where the lift may be only soarable very close to the ridge. A word of caution here: beginners soould not attempt to emulate the more experienced members of the flock in this instance. Only with time and practice will you feel comfortable and be safe while performing a turn immediately after lift off. For the same reason we start close to the hill, we continue to fly close. In most cases of extremely light conditions (except when flying exclusively thermals), the lift is concentrated close to the hill. This is a very important point. I have seen many pilots lose the lift due to a flight pattern too distant from the terrain. How close can you go? That depends on several factors. First, the better your glider handles the tighter to the hill you can fly and still maintain safety. The more skill and feel you have for the air, likewise the closer you can get. Usually, after ten minutes or so in the air you will have a handle on the amount of turbulence present and thus the limits of close scratchin'. Remember, there is a tradeoff. The closer you get, the faster you may have to fly to maintain a margin of safety, and thus your net sink rate may increase. Experiment (within your safety envelope) and see what your vario tells you. Here are two general guidelines to remember: 1) The lighter the conditions, the closer you can scratch and still remain safe. This is true in all conditions except when thermals are passing through. This is most important when the wind is crossing since turbulence builds rapidly as a crossing wind in38

creases. 2) As you climb higher move in, as you drop, move out. Often, beginners make the mistake of staying out from a ridge once they climb up in the light lift. An upward movement should be accompanied by a lateral movement. Figure 2 illustrates some of the principles of lift on a ridge cross-section.

"Scratchin' with traffic on a ridge is a skill in its own right. Many pilots do not like to fly when things get close, and certainly when conditions shut down and everyone is jockeying for position in a lonely little patch of lift matters can be downright dangerous."

When the wind is crossing a ridge, it is always a wise practice to turn into the wind after takeoff to try and get up in a headwind. A subsequent tum may be necessary to carry you to a better soaring area, but be cautious of turning downwind close to the ground due

to wind gradient effects. In cross wind conditions, look for irregularities in the ridge that may produce better lift. These may be bowls, fingers or peaks that face more directly into the wind. Again the idea is to spend as much time as possible in th~ best lift available. Whether the wind is crossing or not, constantly use the terrain in conjucntion with the wind conditions. Monitor the wind at all times for it can easily shift 45 degrees or more in light conditions, rendering different parts of the ridge primary lift sources. Observation is one of your greatest scratchin' assets. Learn to observe birds and other pilots. Turkey vultures are best (they don't trick you like some resident hawks) for indicating lift. The ideal situation is following another pilot down the ridge. If you're doing some serious scratching with pilots falling out of the sky left and right, you should watch the pilot ahead of you and turn back if he encounters significant sink. A good position for performing this trick is 100 to 300 feet behind the leading pilot. Scratchin' with traffic on a ridge is a skill in its own right. Many pilots do not like to fly when things get close, and certainly when conditions shut down and everyone is jockeying for position in a lonely little patch of lift, matters can be downright dangerous, but some care can alleviate matters. For one thing, if all pilots are obeying the rules of the ridge, more crowding can occur safely. Next, learn to understand the body language of good pilots (poor pilots should not be scratch in' in company). A good pilot begins looking around before making a tum. A final head turning toward the turn direction and a body movement to the same direction indicates a turn. Often if you are following someone with ample spacing you can tum when he does so he ends up following you on the opposite tack. Efficient soaring turns are essential to good scratchin' capabilities. A good turn is non-slipping, as flat as possible (without exiting the lift band) and slow as possible. In light conditions it is sometimes desirable to drift back a bit behind the face of the ridge (if you are high enough) so that your turn can be flat (low banked) without carrying you out of the lift band. At any rate, all turns should be performed in areas of lift to minimize altitude loss and to assist the handling.

SCRATCHIN' IN THERMALS Often thermals will assist your attempts HANG GLIDING

at soaring a ridge. This is when speeds-tofly and concepts of turning in lift really pay off. If the thermals are wide enough it often pays to fly further away from the ridge so that you can perform 360s when you encounter them. If any wind is present you will drift toward the ridge as you climb in the thermal. Remember to maintain a 45 degree angle (1 to 1 glide path) to the front of the ridge. When leaving a thermal it often helps to fly straight into the wind if a ground source is pumping continuous or repeated thermals. Other times you should exit at an oblique angle to get to another area as soon as possible if massive sink surrounds the thermals. Only some time in the air will tell you the best plan to follow in the current conditions. Often, if the lift is elusive and passing through in blips, wows and flutters, you can't really perform climbing 360s and should set-

tie for 180s in the lift or dolphin flying in the general area. Many times I have been circling in what I thought was a light but cohesive core only to see a pilot nearby flying back and forth and climbing right with me. As they say in Maine, it all depends. The final situation we'll address is light thermal conditions when ridge lift or anabatic flow isn't a real factor (note that anabatic flow can direct a thermal and will promote thermal abundance on sun-facing slopes). In this case you must treat every thermal as if it were your last. Eke out every bit of altitude that rising bubble has to offer. Many times it is necessary to circle in zero sink to wait until a thermal builds or just maintain altitude while you wait for a sink cycle to reverse. In cyclic conditions, altitude is your friend for altitude buys time. Again, you must carefully watch the conditions and other pilots to constantly place yourself in areas with the best lift. Learn the

minimum strength and duration of vario signal you need to effectively turn in a thermal. This will let you know immediately if a thermal is wide enough or strong enough to take you up. At this point, if we haven't exhausted the subject of light lift flying we have at least given it a good workout. It should be clear that playing the percentages is the main idea. The greater fraction of the airtime spent in lift, the better. Other than cross-country flying, scratchin' in light conditions may be the best test of a pilot's consummate skill. Handling, observing, thinking, executing and applying strategy all come into play when floating is the task. The reward isn't a world record or hero status, but rather the thrill of a cat and mouse game played with nature, a game of chance in which you can sometimes stack the deck.•

IMPROVE YOUR FL YING! Learn the secrets of the pros from hang gliding's most widely read author.

Hang Gliding Books by Dennis Pagen • HANG GLIDING FLYING SKILLS-DETAILS ON: BEGINNING FLIGHT • INTERMEDIATE SKILLS * AERODYNAMICS * GLIDER DESIGN • GLIDER REPAIR * SELECTING EQUIPMENT• THERMALING • MORE. $6.95 •FLYING CONDITIONS-THE-ROAD MAP TO THE SKY-DETAILS ON: GENERAL WEATHER* TURBULENCE* ROTORS • WIND SHADOW • SEA BREEZES • WIND GRADIENT * RIDGE LIFT 'THERMALS• MORE. 5:G.95 • HANG GLIDING TECHNIQUES THE LATEST BOOK FROM SPORT AVIATIGN PUBLICATIONS For the novice to advanced piiot. this book continues the learning that began with Flying Skills. • Learn about thermal soaring - A full 31 pages on thermal techniques will have you soaring like an ace. • Learn about speeds to fly - tlie key to efficient flying whether in competition or cross-country. • Learn about cross,country flying - How to fly further with safety. Also: Perfecting turns • Handling turbulence • Flying at altitude • Using ridge lift • Design concepts • Parachutes • Performance tuning • Cardinal speeds • Harness adjustment • Competition and much more'

- - - - - - - - ALSO A V A I L A B L E - - - - - - - - POWERED ULTRALIGHT FL YING Powered Ultralight Flying: will answer your questions and improve your flying. This book is written for beginners to advanced pilots with over 125 photos and drawings to clearly illustrate even the more complex subjects. All our books are written from an ultralight pilot's point of view so you get the facts you need, not rehashed information from genernl aviation.

DECEMBER 1985

' POWERED ULTRALIGHT TRAINING COURSE This is the only training course written by an ultralight instructor. Eleven lessons and eleven related groundschools (twenty-two chapters) make this an ideal text for self-teaching and training schools. Learn to fly safely in a carefully designed step-by-step manner. This manual is used by safety conscious schools internationally.

* DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED* *

r--------------------

1sEND CHECK OR CASH TO·

I SPORT AVIATION PUBLICATIONS I Dennis Fagen I Dept. G, P.O. Box 11n1 I Sta\8 Co11ege. PA. 16801 :Please rush me the books listed below: 1ouLNTITY u 1

Flying Condilions ($6.95) Hang Gliding Flying Skills ($6.95) Hang Gliding Techniques ($6.95) Powered Ultralight Flying ($11.95)

I I I

[]Powered Ultralight Training Course ($9.95)

I Save 10% · order two or more books! I Save · all five books for only $35.95! Total amount for all books$ ________

: Postag!l and Handling_ ___ .._ _ _ _ 1.25 I Overseas airmail if desired ($4.00/book) ___ _ I TOTAL ENCLOSED - - - - ~ - - - - - 1SEND TO (P!ease Print): ! NAME - - - - - - - - - - - - - ] ADDRESS JCITY,STATE COUNTRY/ ZIP

SAfEi't' TIP

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION (Act of August 12, 1970: Section 3685, Title 39, United States code.)

I. Title of publication: HANG GLIDING 2. Date of filing: September Tl, 1985 3. Frequency of issue: Monthly 4. Location of known office of publication: 11423 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066 (Mailing Address: P.O. Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066). 5. Location of the headquarters or general business offices of the publishers: 11423 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066.) 6. Names and addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor. Publisher: United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc., 11423 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066, P.O. Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066. Editor and managing editor: Gil Dodgen, 12642 Dottie Circle, Garden Grove, CA 92641. 7. Owner: United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc., Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066. Its Officers are: Steve Hawxhurst, President, 1831 Clove, San Diego, CA 92126; Dick Heckman, Vice President, 340! Lookout Dr., Huntsville, AL 35801; Hardy Snyman, Secretary, 9303 Town Park /f285, Houston, TX 77036; Gary Hodges, Treasurer, 4700 Fairway, Soquel, CA 95703. 8. Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding I percent or more of total amounts of bonds, mortgages or other securities: none. 9. For optional completion by publishers mailing at the regular rates (Section 132.121, Postal Service Manual) 39 U.S.C. 3626 provides in pertinent Part:

.. o

"No person who would have been entitled to mail matter under former section 4359 of this title shall mail such matter at the rates provided under this subsection unless he files annually with the Postal Service a written request for permission to mail matter at such rates.

Con IJct Yocr //e"~'>I O 5•1.b~ro, CalllornlaPo;,arSys1em 1 E!(l\313',l'II..;; Sanlc'JN1rn,Ci1' I 9~578

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PROTECTS ANYTHING THAT

FADES IN THE SUNLIGHT'

MAKE THE SMART INVESTMENT MORE & MORE EXPERIENCED PILOTS ARE MAKING

DOUBLE THE LIFE OF YOUR SAIL!! 40

'3.95

8oz. SPRAY QUART

GALLON

12.56

3Z68

In accordance with the provisions of this statute, I hereby request permission to mail the publication in Item I at the reduced postage rates presently authorized by 39 U.S.C. 3626. IO. Extent and nature of circulation: (A) Total No. copies printed: 9,067 av./ mo. preceding 12 mo.; 8,800 for issue -117. (Bl) Paid circulation through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales: l,779 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo; 11,770 for issue -ll?. (B2) Paid circulation, mail subscriptions: 6,685 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 6,615 for issue -117. (C) Total paid circulation: 8,467 av.Imo. for preceding 12 mo., 8,315 for issue -117. (D) Free distribution by mail, carrier or other means, samples, complimentary, and other free copies: 'l7 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 130 for issue -ll7. (E) Total distribution: 8,564 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 8,445 for issue -ll7. (Fl) Office use, left-over, unaccounted, spoiled after printing: 2099 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 355 for issue -117. (F2) Returns from news agents: 204 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 0 for issue -117. (G) Total: 9,067 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo., 8,800 for issue -117. I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete. Signed by: Amy C. Gray, Office Manager

HANG GLIDING

The Hall Airspeed Indicator

~ MODEL 651 VARIO/AUDIO/ DIGITAL ALTIMETER $495

MODEL 652 VARIO/AUDIO DIGITAL ALTIMETER/ AIRSPEED $590

MODEL M20 WRIST VARIO $200

STREAMLINED TUBE ADAPTER

Available from hang glider manufacturers and dealers

I Airspeed Indicator with Long Bracket

A precision Instrument for the serious pilot. Rugged, dependable and easy to read . Airspeed Indicator................. $21 .50 Long Bracket 6.00 Fore ign & C.0 .D. Orders add $2.00 Control Bar Protectors 5" diameter ABS plastic wheels. Specify 1" or 1·118" control bar. Wheels - $20.00/pair Foreign & C.0 .D. orders add $2.00

Control Bar Protectors

Hall Brothers P.O. Bo x 771 ·H, Morgan , UT 84050 C.O.D. Phone Orders (801 ) 829·3232

WOULD YOU PAY 30¢ FOR A MAGAZINE YOU DIDN'T RECEIVE? HELP US ELIMINATE COSTLY POST OFFICE RETURNS Your USHGA now pays 30<: for every member who moves and doesn't report his or her address to the USHGA in time to make the change on the mailing list for the next issue of HANG GLIDING magazine. The Post Office returns undeliverable magazines to us and charges us 30<: . In the final analysis we are all paying for magazines that never get read . Please remember to let the USHGA know immediately when you move. Th"ank you for your cooperation.

CLASSIFIEID ADVERTISING CONSUMER ADVISORY: Used hang gliders always should be disassembled before flying for the first time and inspected carefully for fatigue - bent or dented tubes, ruined bushings, bent bolts (especially the heart bolt). re-used Nyloc nuts, loose thimbles, frayed or rusted cables, tangs with non-circular holes, and on Rogallos, sails badly torn or torn loose from their anchor points front and back on the keel and leading edges. If in doubt, many hang gliding businesses will be happy to give an objective opinion on the condition of equipment you bring to them to inspect.

Rogallos DELTA WING'S NATIONWIDE NETWORK OF DEALERS can help you get into the air. Alternative financing plans available. For further information and the address of your nearest dealer, contact: DELTA WING, P.O. Box 483, Van Nuys, CA 91408 (818) 787-6600. CHANDELLE STANDARD-Never flown. Mint condition. Antique, conversation piece. Owner abroad. Consider offer over $100. (415) 726-3133. C2-165-10 Hrs. airtime, 'h ribs, speed bar, extras, very clean, $1400. (805) 735-6284 eve. C2-135-Brand new with half ribs - must sell make offer. Dennis (404) 820-1962.

'82 SENSOR 510-$950. COMET I 165, very good condition $650. COMET I 185, clean $700. (805) 687-31[9. 160 STREAK-Rainbow sail, good condition $500 (307) 733-9175. 180 STREAK-$1,000. 209 Raven $400. Both for $1300 shipped. (214) 382-3305. STREAK 160-Exceptionally clean sail. Blue, silver, white. Streamlined control bar for small pilot, with extra control bar. $750. (818) 882-9041. UP GLIDEZILLA--Blue, spectrum and white sailJune 1985 very good condition. OVR 185-trade for 229 Raven-(303) 440-3579. PACIFIC WINDCRAFT VISION 20-Brand new, rainbow colors, $1300/0BO. Prone harness w/parachute, helmet $285/0BO. Call Casey (415) 967-8179 (eves.) WANTED - Used Hang Gliding Equipment. Gliders, Instruments, Harnesses and Parachutes. HANG GLIDER EQUIPMENT CO. 3620 Wawona, SAn Francisco, CA 94ll6 (415) 731-7766.

Rigid Wings WANTED-Fledge III ET or Fledge III. Call (608) 249-7721, Wis.

COMET OVR Il-185-Excellent condition, great flyer, many extras. Will deliver. $805. Will negotiate. (805) 652-0463. COMET 185 UP-Like new. Real beauty, super condition. First place winner. Included is flotation & towing equip. Total value $1800. Must sell, make offer. Will ship. Tom. (904) 428-6548. COMET 185-Good shape. Flies great. $700. Dan (216) 543-8381. 180 ATTACK DUCK-Excellent condition. Wills Team glider '84. Winner of 1984 L.A. Regionals. $850. (818) 445-1406. 1984, 180 ATTACK DUCK-Red, gold, white. Three flights, four hours air time. New, must sell. $1200. Clinch Mtn. Tenn. (615) 828-4343. DUCK 160-Excellent condition, less than 30 hours, great handling, will deliver in Region 9. Dave (412) 381-2284. 177 HARRIER I-Blue leading edge, multicolored undersurface, white trailing edge. Excellent condition. $800. (805) 965-2447. 147 HARRIER II-Excellent condition $700. (307) 733-9175. HP 170-5 hours. New, $1700 OBO. (503) 256-5135. HP 170-Excellent condition. Dk blue LE, pacific blue Dbl surface, white 4.5 ounce top sail. $1600. Glen (619) 284-5206, or 457-2900. JETWING-Beautiful rainbow sail, custom trailer for trike, $500 spare parts, flown twice, first $1950 takes all. (206) 742-8961 after 6 PM (Seattle). MOYES MEGA 150-40% double-surfaced, very responsive. Perfect for women or light pilots. $495. Van (619) 481-3213. PRO STAR I-160-Low hours, very good condition. Rainbow undersurface and keel pocket. $575 Jon (218) 722-5412, or (218) 722-1249 any time. RAVEN 209-Good condition. In storage last four years. $400 O.B.O. Also, UP Dragonfly MK. II, harness, Hummingbird vario. Make offer. (805) 995-2142.

Schools and Dealers ARIZONA ARIZONA WINDSPORTS-Certified instruction utilizing skyting and the World's only man-made trainer hill. New & used gliders, accessories, parts & repairs. 1114 W. Cornell Drive, Tempe, AZ 85283 (602) 897-7121. DESERT HANG GLIDERS USHGA Certified School. Supine specialists. 4319 W Larkspur, Glendale, AZ 85304 (602) 938-9550. CALIFORNIA BRIGHT STAR HANG GLIDERS Sales - service restorations. All major brands represented. Santa Rosa, CA (707) 584-7088 CHANDELLE HANG GLIDING CENTERUSHGA certified school. "The best damn hang gliding shop in the world:' Dealers for Wills Wing, Delta Wing. Five minutes from Fort Funston (415) 359-6800. HANG FLIGHT SYSTEMS - Certified instruction program. Featuring Wills Wing and Ultralight Products gliders and accessories. Duck, Comet ll, Skyhawk, Gemini demos available to qua\itied pilots. 1202 E. Walnut, Unit M, Santa Ana, CA 92701. (714) 542-7444. HANG GLIDER EMPORIUM-Quality instruction, service and sales since 1974. Full stock of new and used Wills Wing, Delta Wing, and UP gliders plus complete accessory line including harnesses, helmets, varios, and spare parts. Located minutes from US 101 and flying sites. 613 N. Milpas, Santa Barbara, California 93103 (805) 965-3733.

SAN FRANCISCO WINDSPORTS - Gliders and equipment, sales and rentals. Private and group instruction by USHGA certified instructors. Local site information and glider rental. 3620 Wawona, San Francisco, CA 94ll6. (415) 753-8828. SANTA BARBARA HANG GLIDING CENTER Certified instruction, glider and equipment sale. 29 State St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101. (805) 687-31[9. WINDSPORTS INT. since 1974 (formerly So. Cal. Hang Gliding Schools). Largest and most complete HANG GLIDING center in Southern California. Largest inventory of new and used gliders, ultralites, instruments, parts and accessories. Complete training program by USHGA certified instructors. 16145 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406 (818) 988-0lll. CONNECTICUT CONNECTICUT COSMIC AVIATION - 14 Terp. Rd., E. Hampton, CT 06424, c/o Bart Blau, Lynda Blau, (203) 267-8980. Hang glider dealer for Wills, UP, and Airwave. Ultralight also available. USHGA Certified Instructor. Been flying since 1975. Call me where to go in CONN. HAWAII MAUI SOARING SUPPLIES - Certified Instructors. Sales, service and rentals. R.R. 2, Box 780, Kula, HI 96790 (808) 878-1271. IDAHO TREASURE VALLEY HANG GLIDERS - Service - USHGA Instruction - dealers for all major brands, accessories - site info, ratings - Box 746, Nampa, ID 83651 (208) 362-1848. MINNESITTA NORTHERN SUN, INC. Dealer for all major nonpowered and powered brands. USHGA certified instruction. Owners/managers of the Hang Gliding Preserve, soarable ridge with tramway lift. When in the North Country stop by and test our line of gliders and enjoy the sites. 9450 Hudson Blvd., Lake Elmo, MN 55042 (612) 738-8866. NEW YORK ELMIRA AIR SPORTS-Instructors and dealers for the finest flying equipment: Wills Wing HP and Skyhawk and UP demo gliders available. Five free soaring sites and training slope within 10 minutes of shop. Check in first. (6Cfl) 732-1490. MOUNTAIN WINGS, INC. - 6 miles from Ellenville. Five training hills, five mountain sites, USHGA certified instruction and towing. Delta Wing, Pacific Windcraft, Seedwings, Wills Wing and Skylines and Manta. Sail, airframe repairs on all makes, RIC equipment. Main St., Kerhonkson, NY 12446 (914) 626-5555. NORTH CAROLINA

MOYES CALIFORNIA - 22021 Covello St., Canoga Park, CA 91303 (818) 887-3361 or 173 Bronte Road, Waverley, 2024 N.S.W. Australia 61.2.387.51l4

KITTY HAWK KITES, INC. - P.O. Box 340, Nags Head, NC 27959 l-800-334-4777, In NC, 919-441-4124. Learn to fly over soft sand dunes just south of the site where the Wright Brothers learned to fly. Beginning and Advanced packages; complete inventory of new gliders, accessories and parts. Ultralight training and sales available as well as windsurfing sales and instruction.

PINECREST AIR PARK vice. (714) 887-9275.

SAURATOWN KITES - Winston Salem (919) 760-1390 or 983-3570. Hang Gliding School

Instruction, sales, ser-

HANG GLIDING

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Tokyo 03/433/0063, Yugawara 0456/63/0[73, Kurumayama Hang School 0266/68/m4 (April-November).

w/certified instructor; dealer of Seedwings, Wills Wing & Delta; new and used equipment. OREGON EASTERN OREGON ULTRALIGHTS - Certified instruction. New and used. Wills Wing specialists. PO Box 362, Pendleton, OR 97801 (503) T/6-7462. PENNSYLVANIA SKY SAILS LTD. Hang Gliding School. USHGA certified instructors. 1630 Lincoln Ave., Williamsport, PA 17701. (717) 326-6686 or 322-8866. UTAH FLY UTAH WITH

SWITZERLAND SWISS ALP HANG GLIDING SAFARI - For complete documentation of this high adventure alpine tour send $5.00 to cover airmail postage to: RON HURST, Im Brunnli 10 CH-8152 Opifikon, Switzerland. Airmail.

San Francisco Windsports (formerly H.G. Equipment Co.) For all your hang gliding needs. We are dealers for all major brands. Send $2.00 for price list - 3620 Wawona, San Francisco, CA 94Jl6 (415) 753-8828.

Emergency Parachutes NEW RAPID DEPLOYMENT B.U.S. FLY AWAY CONTAINER SYSTEM is the world's newest, fastest and most reliable system. By the originator of hang gliding parachutes. Bill Bennett Delta Wing Kites & Gliders, Inc., P.O. B~x 483, Van Nuys, CA 91408 (213) 787-6600, telex no. 65-1425.

RAY-BAN WINGS-Sunglasses at discounts up to 40%. FREE CATALOG. Write. L&J Sales, Box 605, Dept. D, Fairports, New York 14450.

ALL BRANDS - Bought, sold, and repacked. Inspection and repack $20.00 - Kevlar, nylon, sis, bridles installed and replaced. S. F. Windsports (formerly H.G. Equipment Co.) 3620 Wawona, San Francisco, CA 94Jl6 (415) 753-8828. Delta Wing Products, certified instruction, 9173 Falcon Cr., Sandy Utah 84092 (801) 943-1005.

ESS 24' PARACHUTE-$175/Theoteck Vario $50. (805) 963-4896 after 6:00 PM. PRESCRIPTION FLYING GOGGLES-Famous Mark 9 flying goggle complete with single vision clear lenses $98.50. Changeable color gray. Lenses $20 extra. Bifocals $30 extra. Send prescription and pupil distance. Leonard Maggiore, Optician, 69-03 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood, NY 11385 (718) 386-5339.

Parts & Accessories

WASATCH WINGS, INC. - USHGA certified hang gliding school, dealers for Wills Wing. 12129 S. 2160 W. Riverton, UT 84065 (801) 254-2242.

International Schools & Dealers

Business & employment Opportunities

JAPAN

Windcr"alr

SUN RISE COUNTlfV INC

~~//IE Distributor major brands hang gliders (Airwave Magic), instruments, parachutes and ultralights,

QUICK RELEASE CARABINER - Breaking 10,000 lbs. $24.95. Extra Yi, bail block pin $10. Thermal, 19431 Business Center Dr. #41, Northridge, CA 91324.

HELP WANTED-Pacific Windcraft is expanding its sail loft operations and is looking for 2 energetic sail makers - experience required; must be

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

I I USHQA CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ORDER FOAM 35 cents per word, S3.00 minimum. (phone numbers - 2 words, P.O. Box -

1 word)

Section (please circle)

Parts & Accessories

Rogallos Schools and Dealers

Rigid Wings

Emergency Chutes

Business & Employment Opportunities

Photos - $10.00 Deadline, 20th of the month six weeks before the cover date of the Issue tn which you want your ad (I.e. March 20, for the May Issue).

Ultralight Powered Flight

Bold face or caps 50c per word extra. (DOils not Include first few words which are automatically caps). Special layouts or tabs $20 per column Inch.

Begin with consecutive issue{s).

Payment for first three months required In advance.

My check _ _ money order _ _ is enclosed In the amount of $ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Publications & Organizations Miscellaneous

issue and run ror _ _ __

Please enter my classified ad as follows:

t I : Number of w o r d s : - - - - - - - @ .35 • - - - - - -

Phone Number:

P.O. BOX N30e, LOS ANQELES, CA 100ee I (213) 390.3095

1---------------------------------------------~-----------' DECEMBER 1985

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING pilots. Benefits include health insurance. Contact: Pacific Windcraft, P.O. Box 4384, Salinas, CA 93912 (408) 422-2299.

Publications & Organizations SOARJNG - Monthly magazine of The Soaring Society of America Inc. Covers all aspects of soaring flight. Full membership $28. Info kit with sample copy $3.00 SSA, P.O. Box 66071, Los Angeles, CA 90066. MANBIRDS: Now really affordable! Authentic history of Hang Gliding. Over 100 photos and input from Hang Gliding's greats. Inside look at heydey of sport. By professional writer Maralys Wills, and first U.S. Champion, Chris Wills, M.D. Only $7.95 plus $1.00 shipping. 5 or more, $4.95 plus $1.00 each. Write "Manbirds," 1811 Beverly Glen Dr., Santa Ana, CA 92705.

tandem sky diving, hot-air ballooning, ultralighting lessons and rides; survival games, rappelling, towing, parachute packing and much more. FF! Rte. 4, Cummings Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37419 (615) 825-0444, Chris & Leon Riche.

PATCHES & DECALS - USHGA sew-on emblems 3" dia. Full color - $1. Decals, 3Vi'' dia. Inside or outside application. 25C each. Include 15C for postage and handling with each order. P.O. Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066.

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Miscellaneous SAILMAKJNG SUPPLIES & hardware. All fabric types. Catalog and colorful samples $1. Massachusetts Motorized, P.O. Box 542-G, Cotuit, MA 02635. (413) 736-2426. CRYSTAL AIR SPORT MOTEL at Raccoon Mountain; Bunkhouse, private rustic rooms, regular & waterbeds, video in-room movies, private jacuzzi room, pool, sky gear gifts, fliers work program. FF! 4328 Cummings Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37409 (615) 821-2546. Checi & Sheri Toth.

SOAR through "THE GRAND CANYON" right in your own living room! 2-hour spectacular helicopter exploration. Breathtaking music. Critically acclaimed. VHS or BETA. Details FREE. Beerger Productions, 3217-Y Arville, Las Vegas, NV 89102 (702) 876-2328.

DESIGNER has a few helmets used only for testing and sales demos. $49.00. Some short versions (30 cm) also available. Jack Lambie, 209 Adams, Orange, CA 92667 (714) 532-4908.

$32.50

dealer inquiries invited

THE AIRWORKS 3900 Van Buren NE NM 87110 (505)

Albuquerque,

D HANG GLIDER

D ULTRALIGHT

NAVY WITH GREEN & GOLD SILK DETAIL

NAVY WITH GREEN GOLD & RED SILK DETAIL

SKY LIFE Suitable for pilots and all other sky enthusiasts.

HANG GLIDING CHRJSTMAS CARDS. Unique hand made in old black and white etching style. 75C each or S,7.00 for an assortment of twelve or $25.00 for 50, plus JO% for shipping. Call Alegra Davidson (203) 379-1668 or send a self addressed, stamped envelope for assortment selection to: Tek Flight Products, Colebrook Stage, Winsted, CT 06098.

nylon inside and out • Available in red or black S, M, or L only

The rate for classified advertising is 35C per word (or group of characters). Minimum charge, $3.00. A fee of $10.00 is charged for each photograph or logo. Bold face or caps 50C per word extra. Underline words to be bold. Special layouts of tabs $20.00 per column inch. AD DEADLINES - All ad copy, instructions, changes, additions and cancellations must be received in writing 1'h months preceding the cover date, i.e., November 20 for the January issue. Please make checks payable to USHGA: Classified Advertising Dept., HANG GLIDING MAGAZINE, P.O. Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066.

Neck Ties By

RACCOON MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE PARK (formerly Crystal Flight Resort); TRAM NOW OPEN EVERY DAY. Simulator, Hang Gliding,

chute, camera • Quality consfruction, 1h·in. neoprene,

TEE-SHIRTS with USHGA emblem $8.00 including postage and handling. Californians add 6 % tax. Men's sizes in BLUE - S, M, L, XL. Limited supply of ORANGE, sizes S, XL. USHGA, P.O. Box 66306, Los Angeles, CA 90066.

T-SHIRTS--''! (heart) HANG GLIDING" Navy lettering/red heart. Glider design on back. Yellow, tan, blue, silver, pink. S,M,L,XL. $9.00 postpaid. Bumper stickers $2.00. Larry Haney, 1601 North Shackleford #131-4, Little Rock, Ark, 72211 (501) 224-2186. BOOMERANGS-Exciting RETURNS GUARANTEED! Many styles, teeshirts, fun. Write for your FREE CATALOG today. Boomerangs, 1482 East Valley B-226, Montecito, CA 93108.

• Always there when you need them • Warm, comfortable, durable, slide easily across control bar • Instant bare hand dexterity for launch, CB,

BUMPER STICKERS - "There's No Place Like Cloudbase" $2.00 postpaid. Flight Realities, c/o 1830 Clove St., San Diego, CA 92106 (619) 455-6036.

COMPUTER SJMULATION-WINDMASTER, a simulation of one cross country hang gliding, arcade style. Thermals, dust devils, clouds, and lightning. For the Commodore 64 (disk). $29.95 PPd. Maui School of Hang Gliding, PO Box lll9, Paia, HI 96779. CASH FOR MAGS-I will pay cash for pre-1978 issues of HG magazine and Ground skimmer. 3919 Turnagain #9, Anchorage, Alaska 99517 (907) 248-5909.

Price $15.95' + $1.75 Handling & Shipping 'N.Y. State Residenls Add $1.32 Sales Tax Send Check or M.O. to: SKY LIFE 345 W. 21st St. N.Y.C., NY 10011 Tel. (212) 929·4379

Name (print) Address City, State & Zip Allow For Immediate Delivery Dealer Inquiries Welcome

884-6851

HANG GLIDING

USHGA MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM QUANTITY 8·1

8·2 8-3 8-5 8-6 8-7 8-10 8-11 8-12 8-13

]~ B-15 B-16

BOOKS

PRICE

MANBIIDS by Maralys Wills. Entertainingly takes the reader from hang gliding's past to its soaring present. B pg color, 150 Blk & Wht photos, 40 pg appendix. USHGA INSTRUCTORS CERTIRCATION MANUAL. Complete requirements, syllabus, teaching methods. HANG GLIDING by Dan Poynter. 8th Edition. Basic Handbook for skysurting. FL YING CONDITIONS by Dennis Pagen. Micrometerology for pilots. 90 illustrations. HANG GLIDING AND FLYING SKILLS by Dennis Pagen. Beginners to experts instruction manual. HANG GLIDING TECHNIQUES by Dennis Pagen. Tech· niques for cross-country, competition & powered flight. MANNED IOTIHG by Oan Poynter. Handbook on tow launch flying. MAN-l'OWERED AlftCRAFT by Don Dwiggins. 192 pg history of flight. Features flight of Gossamer Condor. FEDERAL AVIATION REGULATIONS FOR PILOTS. 1983 Edition. Hang gliding pertinent information. FAI SPORTING CODE FOR HANG GLIDING. Requirements for records, achievements & World Championships. HANG GLIDING MANUAL & LOG by Dan Poynter. For beginners. An asset to instructors. 24 pgs. USHGA OFRCIAL FLIGHT LOG. 40 pgs. Pocket size, skills signoffs (all levels), glossary of terms, awards.

$17.95

AMOUNT

$ 2.00 $ 7.50 $ 7.50 $ 7.50 $ 7.50 $ 4.50 $ 6.50

$ 4.50 $ 1.00 $ 1.50

$ 2.95

ITEMS

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"HEW" USHGA 'HAHB GLIDING' T-SHIIT. 100% heavyweight cotton. WHITE or TAN. Men's sizes: SM L X·L (CIRCLE ONE) . USHGA EMBLEM T-SHIRT. 100% heavyweight cotton. TAN or LIGHT BLUE. Men's sizes only. S M L X·L (CIRCLE SIZE & COLOR) USHGA EMBLEM CAP. One size fits all. Baseball type/USHGA emblem. NAVY ORANGE GOLD (CIRCLE ONE) "HEW" USHGA BELT BUCKLE. Solid bronze, custom design, relief sculpture. 31;, x 211,. USHGA SEW-OH EMBLEM. 3" dia., full color (red wings, sunburst w/black print). USHGA EMBLEM DECAL. 31/,'' dia., full color. LICENSE PLATE FRAME. "I'd rather be hang gliding." White on Blue. WALLET. Nylon, velcro closure, mach. washable, water resistant. ROYAL BLUE color .

1-1

1-2 1·3

1 ·4 1·5 1-6 1-8 1-9

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$ 8.00

$ 8.00 $ 5.00

$12.00 $ 1.00 .25 5.50 $ 8.95

HANG GLIOIHG/GROUNO SKIMMER BACK ISSUES '"SPECIFY BY CIRCLING ISSUE HUMBER' "ISSUES HOT NUMBERED ARE SOLD OUT'"

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$ 1.00

105- 14-11

$ 2.00

14-12

$ 2.50

Current Issue

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Ordering Information: All prices include postage and handling. {Prices subJeCI to change withou! notice.) Enter quantity and price of each item ordered Allow 3-4 weeks delivery 18 weeks for Foreign) All orders are ma tied by the cheapest available rate !I you wish lo receive your order faster. please include sufficient postage funds No CO

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MSll~1~tlO~ROS. fU\.\.'I CE.R Dear Bill , Hey you guys - you 've done it! There 's a high performance , great handling glider for small people on the market - and you 've created it! I've never flown a glider that has a great sink rate , good handling and good performance until my Mystic arrived. I love it. --Genny Farnsworth

Dear Bill , I finally got to fly the new Mystic and thought you might be interested in a short note on how it's going . My first flight on the Mystic was 122 miles ; the next day it took me 135. And it didn 't stop there - in nine flights the next ten days I averaged over ninety miles per day on the Mystic 177 with six flights over 100 miles. What impresses me more though , is that the glider goes so well without giving up handling - it 's an absolute joy to fly. In short you 're doing a great job on a great glider. Good going mate! -Woody Woodruff

Dear Bill , I received my Mystic two weeks before the '85 Nationals . My Mystic required no tuning to get it ready for competition , pulling the VG took care of that. Engaging the VG is like changing gliders in midair. It goes from an easy handling glider to a flat flying racer with the pull of a string . During the Nationals I flew over 500 miles . There were only three Mystics flying in the Nat'ls , and two of the three placed in the top ten. The third was flown by a first year rookie who already has a one hundred + mile flight and several seventy + mile flights in his Mystic . This says a lo! about how easy the glider is to fly , and how well it performs . The Mystic has , without a doubt , proven itself to be a competitive , certified , state of the art, American made glider that is secl,nd to none . My choice for the '86 season will be a Mystic. -Kevin Christopherson

Dear Bill , The performance and flight characteristics on the Mystic are absolutely superb . Thank you Bill for offering the flying community a glider of this caliber . -John Minnick Mystic Owner Chandelle SF .

Dear Bill , Just a note with some thoughts on your new Mystic glider. Its mellow flight characteristics and ease of landing really appeal to our Hang 3 customers. It's really nice to be able to sell a truly high performance glider to a Hang 3 and know that he can handle it! - Joe Greblo Windsports

MYSTIC SPECIFICATIONS MYSTIC Wing span Aspect ratio Sail area Optimum pil ot weight

* 155

166

177

32 .8 ft 6.72

34. 1 ft 6.8

34 .8 ft 6.84

156

166

175

100-170 lbs 140-210 lbs 170-240 lbs

*Certification in progress . Standard Features Include: Streamlined Downtubes & Kingpost; Foam Leading Edge Inserts; Enclosed Ball Tips ; Y2" Center Ribs ; 4 Half Ribs ; 3 Undersurface Ribs Per Side. Options: Variable Geometry, Spectum Cloth . ..

MYSTIC PRICE (ALL SIZES) ....... . ONLY $2395

Delta Wing Gliders

Box 483 Van Nuys, CA 91408

818/787 ·6600 Telex 65-1425