USHGA Hang Gliding May 1993 by US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association

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(USPS 017-970-20-ISSN 0895-433X)

26 A New Helmet For Hang Gliding by jack Lambie High tech materials and low-noise aerodynamic design.

32 Wrong Way In The Owens by Dennis Baker Long flights to the south (the "wrong" way) in the Owens Valley, California.

38 Sky Gods Speak: Chris Arai & Jim Lee by Davis Straub A conversation with two of the world's best pilots.

Columns

Departments

USHGA Reports .................................... 12

Airmail ...................................................... .5

Competition Corner .............................. .35

Update ........................................................ 8

Accident Reports ....................................41

Calendar ofEvents ................................... 14

by Dan Johnson ........ .59

Ratings .................................................... .46

Product Lines -

Classified Advertising ............................. .50 Index to Advertisers ................................. 58 Stolen Wmgs ........................................... .58

May 1993

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

UNITED STATES HANG GLIDING AsSN. ZIP_ _ _ _PHONE(_) _ __ _

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INSURANCE INFORMATION The cost of the insurance is included in the full membership fees with the member as additional insured. USHGA provides a Combined Single Limit Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability Master Policy in the amount of $1,000,000 per claim which covers all recreational flying. USHGA's insurance is valid ONLY while flying in the U.S., U.S. Properties, Canada, and overseas while on USHGA approved business.

*Foreign pa;,ments must be in U.S. FUNDS drawn on a U.S. BANK. USHGA, PO BOX 8300, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80933 (719) 632-8300 FAX (719) 632-6417

Gil Dodgen, Editor/Art Director John Heiney, Leroy Grannis P/Jotograp/Jers Harry Martin, 1/hr<trator Dennis Pagen, Rodger Hoyt, G,W, Meadows Staif Writers Tim Rinker, Design Consultant

Office Stafi Jerry Bruning, Executive Director Greg Huller, Ratings & ICP's Cindy Evans, Member Services PJ More, Special Projects & Competitions Siu Clark, Insurance & Member Services Jeff Elgart, Marketing & Advertising D. Dean leyerle, Merchandise Services

USHCA Officers and Excculivc Committee: Gregg lawless, President Paul Voight, Vice President Russ Locke, Secreta1y Dan Johnson, Treasurer REGION 1: Gene Matthews. REG ION 2: Lynda Nelson, Russ Locke, Ray Leonard. REGION 3: Joe Grebin, Sandy King, Gregg Lawless. REGION 4: Rod Hauser, Glen Nicolet. REGION 5: Mike King. REGION 6: Ron Kenney. REGION 7: Bill Bryden. REGION 8: Randy Adams. REGION 9: Pete Lehmann, William Bennett. REGION 10: Matt Taber, Rick Jacob. REG/ONJ 1: Jeff Hunt. REGION 12: Paul Voight, Paul Rikcrt. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Dan Johnson, Jerry Forburger, Jan Johnson, Dennis Pagen. HONORARY DIRECTORS: Ken Brown, Jim Zcisct, Doug Hildreth, G.W. Meadows, Tom Kreyche, Mike Meier, Rob Kells, Fred Stockwell, Gregg McNamcc, Michael Robertson, Dave Broyles. EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS: Art Greenfield (NAA), Ken Baier (Paragliding). The United States Hang Gliding Association Inc. is an air sports organization affiliated 1.vith the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) which is the official rcpresenta ti ve of the Federation Acronautique Internationale (FAIJ, of the world governing body for sport aviation. The NAA, which represents the U.S. at FAI meetings, has delegated to the USHGA supervision oi FAl-related hang gliding activities such as record attempts and competition sanctions. HANG GLIDING magazine is published for hang gliding sport enthusiasts to create further interest in the sport, and to provide an educational forum 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, selfaddressed return envelope must be enclosed. Notiiication 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 editorial offices: 6950 Aragon Circle, Suite 6, Buena Park, CA 90620 (714) 994-3050. HANG Gll DING (ISSN 0895-433x) is published monthly by the United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc., 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Suite 101, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903 (719) 632-8300. FAX (719) 632-6417. Second-class postage is paid at Colorado Springs, CO and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: HANG GLIDING, P.O. BOX 8300, Colorado Springs, co 80933-8300. The USJ-IGA is a member-controlled spo11 and educational organization dedicated to exploring all facets of unpowcred ultralight flight. Membership is open to anyone interested in this realm of flight. Dues for full membership arc $49.00 per year (of which $15 goes to the publication of Hang Gliding), ($55 Canada & Mexico, $60 foreign); subscription rates only arc $35.00 ($40 Canada & Mexico, $50 foreign). Changes of address should be sent six weeks in advance, including name, USHGA nurnber, previous and new address, and a mailing label from a recent issue.

MAY 1993

VOLUME 23, ISSUE No. 5

Air Mail~ IN MEMORY OF DICK EIPPER Dear Editor, Thanks for publishing in the March 1993 issue Sandra McCaffrey's short, direct, but wonderfully worded ten-line tribute to Dick Eipper, one of the founders ofUSHGA and its first member. She mentioned the loss she and her friends felt who knew Dick. I never met Dick. I often ,vished I had. I never got to tell him that of all the people in this world, he had a most profound impact on my life by helping me to get involved in hang gliding. I tried to say something along these lines in the article I wrote last year about the history ofUSHGA. I hoped that he and others who were leaders in the early days of hang gliding would read it, and lmow that he and they were being recognized for their devotion to the sport. Dick was one of a handful of people who created the organization that would lead to the development ofUSHGA. He was a manufacturer of hang gliders (Eipper-Formance) that many people used for their first flights. It is only recently that Dick has received recognition for his contributions to the sport. They are now regarded as substantive. One of the people who made sure that proper recognition was given to Dick was Bill Bennett, who at his own expense produced a plaque for presentation at last year's spring meeting of the USHGA board, and he shouldered the expense to have Dick attend the event. I've thought about why Dick's death was a particularly heartfelt blow, and it has occurred to me that it forced an awareness that a chapter of my life is also closed, as it is in the lives of all who participated in the beginnings of this sport. People who are one's contemporaries, whether one is known to them or not, represent a tie to a particular time and circumstance. When they are gone the connection they represent with that portion of one's life closes. We mourn the loss of Dick. We mourn the loss of that never-to-be-repeated, exciting, adventurous, stupendous time in our past. Farewell, Dick. You arc missed. Vic Powell Annandale, VA

IN MEMORY OF DON MITCHELL Dear Editor. Sadness has befallen us again. Don Mitchell passed away on Feb. 25, 1993 from complications of pneumonia and congestive heart failure. He was only 77 years young, and had so much more to do. He designed and built aircrafr for more than 40 years. In the l 970's he owned Mitchell Aircraft which produced the B-10 andA-10 Mitchell Wings. Amore recent design was the U-2 motorglider. His last design was the Stealth II footlaunchable sailplane and/ or motorglider. We will all miss him. David Swanson Glendale, CA

COVER PHOTOS AND "COURAGE" Dear Editor, Every month I sec at least one "Airmail" letter that disturbs me. This month, 1 felt compelled to respond. I managed a cover shot in the past, and in the very next issue some self-made expert took the time and trouble to knock my hard work over the fact that my carabiner didn't meet his specs, or he couldn't see something he felt should be visible, or his wife might make him quit the sport because of the pilot's angle of attack. GET A LIFE! These photos tal<:e a lot of energy and timing, in addition to going through a selection process before they're published. If you have a problem with a photo, don't look at it, and hide it from your mother.. Better yet, take some of your own, and if they get published save them for your mom. My other birch concerns those pilots who spend more hours complaining about articles than their annual airtime. In one case the griping individual was comparing the accident reports to an article about a "Sky God." I don't recall that the accident reports point to "go-for-it" competition pilots as creating high risk or racking up accident statistics. Competitions have their risks and these pilots will talk about them,

~ Air Mail so we can all learn something. I feel we are obligated to know our limits and take personal responsibility for our actions. If a reader is uncomfortable when Mr. Koji (or any other comp pilot) makes a statement about how to win or make goal, confront him directly to learn what's really being said, instead formulating a negative opinion based on a generalized competition principle. I'm not a competition pilot, but the knowledge base they have to share has helped me to excel in the sport and fine tune skills for my own goals. Pick up your glider more and your pen less. Russ Douglas Livermore, CA

CHECKLISTS AND HANG LOOPS Dear Editor, If you are towing there are more things to check than simply being hooked in. I know of too many instances in which serious inju1y, the potential for injury or glider damage could have been prevented with a simple checldist. Lines which need to be removed before launch seem to be a common cause of accidents in platform launch. I know of an accident in which a VG line snagged on the platform. In aerotowing I have seen low fuel levels and loose seat belts which could have been caught with checldists. I believe checklists should be mandato1y on all tow systems: aero, platform or static. Any meet I am involved in running will require them. They could save somebody's hide - maybe yours. I also believe that the European standard for hang loops (bottom to basetube) is 1.2 meters (47.2 inches). My question is, Do any U.S. manufacturers conform to this standard? I think Pacific Airwave might. Are there any harness builders who use this standard? Is it just wishful thinking that we could stop looping over, doubling back, or knotting up our hang loops? We, the consumers, have the power to effect change. Revolt! Tal<e action! Make yourselves heard! You could have your har-

ness lines adjusted to your personal taste for height above the bar, and voila, it's the same on any glider. Let's establish a worldwide standard for hang loop to basetube height. Jeff Hunt, Region 11 Director Austin, TX

DROGUE CHUTE REBUTTAL Dear Editor, Since Mike Sandlin developed the keelstabilized drogue chute concept there have been numerous letters written on this topic. They have been mostly negative, and have also been from pilots who have never used one. These writers all seem to suffer from the misconception that somehow this device will land the glider for you. This couldn't be further from the truth. The pilot is still in command, and ifhe has poor landing skills he will still land poorly. All this device does is add a significant amount of drag to the glider, thereby reducing its glide and ground-skimming ability. It does not affect stall speed and has an insignificant effect on handling. The pilot still must be able to judge glide and proper flare timing. It has been suggested that pilots be prohibited from using drogue chutes for the spot landing requirements of the rating system. Should we also prohibit the use of single-surface gliders, Spectrums or Pulses? Using a drogue chute essentially gives all gliders the same performance when landing. The other concern I hear is that beginner pilots will choose to fly advanced-rated gliders since they will now be easy to land. People don't buy gliders for how they land. People will buy what they feel comfortable flying, and a drogue chute certainly won't make an HP turn like a Pulse. Mike Tryon

AMERICAN AIRLINES UPDATE Dear Editor, This is in response to negative comments about American Airlines (Airmail, March '93 - flight to Australia). As a mechanic for the airline I was disappointed to hear the bad news. I would like to point out that American Airlines discontinued flights to Australia a year ago. If this attempted trip took place recently, as was stated in the letter, then American Airlines was accused in error of not accepting hang gliders as oversized baggage. Also, with a little investigation of my own, I found no policy to exist that does not allow hang gliders as oversized baggage. What I did find was that oversized baggage is restricted to 80 inches for international flights. Larger items need to be shipped as air cargo. I have never traveled with my glider, but I recommend telling the reservationist the size of the baggage to prevent a possible snag at the airport, no matter what airline you choose. Jim Delear Sylmar, CA

TOWING EQUIPMENT CONTEST Dear Editor, I have read with much interest recent articles on towing and related equipment. Concerning tow bridles and releases, I would like to propose a contest that would be open to anyone who has an idea and a sample working model. These releases could be submitted to a panel of judges for evaluation, and recognition of the winning design in the magazine. This panel should be made up of unbiased pilots who really do tow and do not sell the equipment being evaluated. A contest might be considered for other tow equipment as well. There is a lot of poor tow equipment being used. Some of it is outdated and only being used because "it's what we've always used," or "it's what Mr. X told me to use." There is some equipment that is very simple and effective, but chances are HANG GLIDING

Air Mail~ that most tow pilots will never see it because there isn't much money to be made selling such simple items. Let's spread some good ideas around so we can all fly safely. David Kincheloe Graham, NC

AIRLINE GLIDER TRANSPORT TIP Dear Editor, The letter in the March issue, by Eric Raymond, on Tony Barton's sad but true problem with American Airlines' unwilling attitude about transporting his glider brought back some old memories and experiences that I had a few years ago. I didn't want to go through this ordeal again, so I figured out a way to beat them at their own stupid little game, and it turned out to be very simple. Breal( the glider down into the 12' configuration and remove the leading edge

foam from the sail, then by just removing a few bolts you can remove the sail from the airframe, then just put the bolts back and finger-tighten them. Wrap up the tubing and cables with the foam before putting them into the bag. Now just neat· ly fold up the sail and put it into your suitcase or carry it separately in a carryon bag. When the airlines ask me what is in the bag, I don't have to lie, I just tell them it is some metal tubing and cables. They never ask me if it is a hang glider and in reality it is only what I say it is. If they should ask me what it is for I have a little white one prepared. (You can come up with a multitude of answers for tubing and cables.) If you're using your glider bag for transport it might be a good idea to remove any logos, or if you're using your own speciallypadded bag, which is a good idea, get a camping company's logo or sew-on patch, and just let it pass for ,.vhatever. It seems that the airlines have lost sight of customer service these days. Because of past experiences ,\'ith AA, if they are the

only carrier going where I need to go, I will try all other options before I give up and go home. I will personally NEVER fly with AA again and I urge all hang glider pilots to use other carriers as ,,.,ell, even if your wing isn't involved. Jerry Carson Eureka, CA

SPECTRA

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PANORAMIC HELMET: is designed specifically for Paragliding and Hang gliding Constructed of a polyester polymer reinforced with chop fiber allowing it to be strong but also light weight. It's lined with high impact foam and brushed polyester fabric for a comfortable fit. Meets proposed ACPU l helmet certification.

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II Update WILLS WING 20TH GOOF Antics on the part of the desktop publishing gremlins (or possibly an accidentally depressed delete key) resulted in the omission of two paragraphs from the Wills Wing 20th Anniversary article in last month's issue. Starting at the top of page 28 the text should have read: On Thursday morning I woke up early in San Diego and raced up to \X!ills \'{ling for the first day of a three-day hang gliding dealer seminar. Upon arrival I was informed that after a tour of the new facto1y, we would load up 30 or so inventory gliders, and go back to Torrey Pines (oops!) and take advantage of what was forecasted as the last good weather day for the week. The factory tour, however, was awesome. They now have large, efficient offices with plenty of computers for everyone. Mike and Linda share one office. I.arry Tudor and Pat Page share another, which is where they coordinate their demo tours. Along with long-time designers Steve Pearson and Mike Meier, Wills also now employs Roy Haggard and a myriad of computers and programs in their design team. (For you new readers, Roy designed the Comet hang glider in 1980, which, to this day, is still the biggest single advance in glider design ever. All of today's modern gliders are still simply refined Comet clones for the most part!) Those boys have their own room where I discovered first hand that one should knock before entering - in case they've got something juicy up on the computer screen!

1993 CHAPTER/CLUB & SITE INSURANCE RENEWALS Chapter and club renewal forms were mailed to all 1992 affiliated chapters and clubs on December 28, 1992. Fewer than half of the 1992 chapters/dubs have renewed for 1993. The USHGA site insurance is in force from March l of the current year to March 1 of the following year. If your chapter or club has not renewed its site insurance for 1993, there is no site insurance coverage at 1992 insured sites as it expired on March 1, 1993. Should you need assistance with 1993 chapter/club and site insurance renewal, please contact USHGA Headquarters at (719) 632-8300. Please don't wait until an

accident happens, which causes non-participant personal injury or property damage, and then find out that your site insurance had expired, putting the landowner at risk for a third-party lawsuit. Our carrier will not defend landowners of non-insured sites.

NATIONAL FLY-IN REQUEST FOR BIDS - 1993 & 1994 Deadline for written bids for the 1993 National Fly-In is June 1, 199 3. If you think you'd like to hold the National FlyIn at your local site please don't delay in submitting your bid. Send to: USHGA Nat'! Fly-In, Attn: Dave Broyles, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs CO 80933, or fax it in to USHGA at (719) 632-6417. The deadline for potential bids for the 1994 National Fly-In is October 1, 1993 so they may be reviewed by the National Fly-In Committee at the fall 1993 Board of Directors meeting.

LAST CALL FOR 1994 USHGA CALENDAR PHOTOS The window closes on May 31, 1993. If you haven't sent in your favorite photo yet, don't delay, SEND IT IN NOW, before it's too late. Imagine your own photography (or a friend's photo of you and your ship) immortalized for a whole month, for the entire world to admire! Submit your best to: USHGA Calendar, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, CO 80933-8300, and tell your flying buddies to do the same. All photography will be promptly returned after the selection process is finished. If you should have any questions please give us a call at (719) 632-8300.

LAKEVIEW HAMS REQUEST DONATIONS FORA THIRD AREA REPEATER Rob Thornton of the Lakeview Amateur Radio Club is requesting donations for the installation of a third repeater. Currently there is a 11 OV-powered

repeater on Black Cap. The club has the resources for a second repeater, which will be installed on Crane Mountain as soon as the snow allows access to the top. The Crane repeater will be solar powered 12V and should adequately cover the area down past Sugar Hill and Buck Mountain, and east to the Surprise Valley. A third repeater, on Drakes Lookout about 30 miles northeast of Lakeview is being planned. This repeater should give very good coverage to pilots heading northeast (the preferred direction for summer X-C conditions) up toward Plush, Frenchglen, Hare Mountain and possibly as far east as the Steen Mountains. The main problem with the third repeater is money. An earlier estimate of $1,200 to $1,500 published in a few local club newsletters was made before checking catalog prices. Rob estimates it will take at least $3,200 to buy, install and house the repeater properly. He stated that if the club could raise at least $2,000 in donations, they would be able to fund the rest, and further, would do all the installation and housing in time for the summer flying season and the Nationals. Please make checks out to the Lakeview Amateur Radio Club and send them to: Rob Thornton, c/o Thornton Homes, 1740 N. 4th St., Lakeview, OR. Be sure to put your USHGA number on the check to help track the source of donations.

TELLURIDE AIRMEN'S RENDEZVOUS The 20th anniversary of the Telluride Airmen's Rendezvous will take place September 13-18, 1993. Fees: $40 preregistration (before Aug. 2 until Sept. 14), $60 late registration (Sept. 15 and later). Price includes a 20th anniversary T-shirt and entrance for one person to all planned activities including the awards banquet. Price does not include $10 daily site fee or rides up the hill, which you pay only when you fly. Also available this year are lodging and flying packages. Contact: Telluride Air Force, P.O. Box 456, Telluride, CO 81435 (303) 728-5242.

HANG GLIDING

UpdateO ENTERPRISE WINGS ANNOUNCES THE DESIRE 151 Enterprise Wings is pleased to announce the arrival of the Desire 151, their new high-performance glider. The manufacturer comments that the Desire is not merely a refinement of the Combat, but a totally new design. It boasts higher aspect ratio, easier setup, lighter weight and increased performance. Contact: Nelson Howe, U.S. Enterprise Wings representative, at (603) 823-8195.

Desire 151 Specifications Sail Area 151 sq. fr. Span 32' 11" Nose Angle 130° Double Suifoce 90% No. Battens 28 Pilot Weight 132-198 lbs. Features Internal deflexor, king-

to enter this contest and take advantage of

the opportunity to fly with, observe and talk to the world's top aerobatic pilots. Any Hang IV pilot can enter, but a firsttime entrant is required to provide a reference who can attest to the pilot's responsible flying practices. Learning freestyle safely requires a gradual progression. (Anyone who thinks about doing his first loop during the WAC does not exhibit a responsible attitude. Remember, the world will be watching.) For more info on the World Aerobatics Championship contact: Hugh Sawyer (303) 728-4772, John Heiney (801) 2545285 or Axel Coch (303) 728-5242.

FULL-FACE LAMBIE LID

post hang system, one-stage setup, internal luff line compensator, 7075 battens.

WORLD AEROBATICS CHAMPIONSHIP Are you interested in freestyle hang gliding? \Xfhether you're a top freestyle competitor or just learning, the Telluride Hang Gliding Festival should be on your schedule for this September. This year is the 20th anniversary of "Telluride." A special celebration is planned with an emphasis on the World Aerobatic Championships. There will be at least $2,500 in prize money for the first six places. Entry fee is $100, which includes admission to the Telluride Hang Gliding Festival. Rides up the mountain are additional. Festival dates are Sept. 13-18. The aerobatics contest will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sepe. 16-18. Telluride '93 promises to be the best ever. Bring your antique gliders for static display and possible flying if airworthy. The organizers are seeking TV coverage. There will be a prorated admission fee structure in case of rain days. Post-flight activities will include guest speakers, slide shows and the latest hang gliding films. The best way to improve your freestyle is

May 1993

This new helmet is a follow-on to the open face helmet described in the previous new product notice. This version has a face guard built in as one piece. Like the open face it has a kevlar carbon fiber shell with a thick polystyrene shock liner. The comfort liner has thick, absorbant cloth over confo-foam that adjusts to the wearer's head. Although it is not as quiet as the open face, due to the turbulence produced by the face guard, it is still comparatively quiet. With a windshield, of course, the low noise level allows the pilot the hear all the sounds of the wind around the glider. It features a double harness, quick release buckle and rubber edging. \Xleight is 16 ounces (half the weight oflast year's helmet). Price $185. Contact: Jack Lambie, 8160 Woodsboro, Anaheim, CA 91807 (714) 779-1877.

FRENCH HANG GLIDING FESTIVAL The 20th Coupe Icare and Festival du Film de Vol Libre, the well-known inter-

national French hang gliding film festival, has a new attraction in 1993: the first international rigid wing meet in France. The daces are September 17-19. A competition will try to determine the relative performance of the rigid-wing gliders, and there will be a meeting of manufacturers, designers and others. Gliders will be on display for the public and the organizers are open to other ideas concerning rigid-wing, foot-launched gliders. Contact: Vol Libre, 3 rue Ampere, 94200 lvry-sur-Seine, France. tel: 1-7608-53-99, fiu 1-46-58-97-52.

HIGH ROCK FLIGHT CELEBRATION The First Annual High Rock Flight Celebration will be held June 5-6 at this famous site in Maryland. It will be a funfly type meet with tasks to be called by the meet director as deemed appropriate for the day. Awards will be presented for notable performances, and not necessarily limited to flying tasks. The emphasis will be on having fun and partying! There will be no fee for the meet, although contributions toward food and beverages will be expected of chose deciding to participate in the evening-to-dawn competitive events. Camping is available in the LZ. High Rock is one of the oldest continuously-operating flying sites in the U.S. (since 1974). The owner of the LZ, Emma-Jane Carbaugh, has actively supported hang gliding over all these years by allowing pilots to use her field as a primary LZ. Day use fee is $3.00. The launch is a cliff, capped by a cement flat deck. Pilots need to be experienced, with assisted cliff launch skills. A launch master will be present and will determine who can fly. Hang II's ,viii be permitted if an observer can personaUy vouch for their abilities. High Rock is one of the most consistently soarable sites in all of Region IX. The air is rarely turbulent and friendly thennals are the rule. Pilots must observe the P40 restricted airspace behind launch; this is the area over the presidential retreat of Camp David. X-C flights are possible dmvn the ridge or across the valley.

Por more info conrac1: Marc l :orcstvicw ( 2087() l) 2'j8 .. 780'7 (110rnc), G82 8066 (work).

cnce ranges to mili1ary recovery systems cap;1payloads of over one ton, to drogue chutes at Mach I ro skateboard clccclcrator chm cs. hJr a pilots have demanded the sm;11lcst, p,irachutcs more sophisticated pilot undcrst;mds that rl1crc arc 1radco/Is in parachute It is 110 longer to just "live I hrough" a parachute deploy· rncnt; w:mt to minimize the possibilof 'J arc more willing to sac ounces of for a lower rate of Bill has worked with round pullcd·down . a11cx and numerous ra1n. air parachutes. Bill states, "There has heen 110 design in hang gliding parachutes in the past 10 years. With our currenr statc-of.the···art equipment, high· tech m:ncrials and background of' para from many diffc:rent disciplines, we arc now better able to focus 011 the requirements for hang glider canopies." I ligh Energy also announces some new options 011 their harnesses.' I'he popular 10

'foiccr :md Racer harnesses now spon ;111 optional hallast container. This singlccompart mcll! co1lla incr fits on the side of the harness under your arm. It has an easy· handle that allows 10 help shed those 1mwamcd pounds. Once the ballast is dumped, rhc spcci:1! vckro arra11gcme11t the comaincr from in the wind. This harness option can be added to many makes :md models oC harnesses. You may order one for one side or two to be placed on both sides of rhe ha mess. /\lso offered is an in . flighr backpack option thm cm be sewn into the harness or made rcrnovablc. The vclcro pleats allow the backpack to lay flat when used for small items and pop up to accommo"· dare luggage. I:or more information :ibout d1ese and other new I ligh Sports options, conracr your local dealer or write or call: High Sports, W. 2nd Street, Sama /\na, C/\ 92703 (? H) 972 . 818(1, fax (71 Ii) 972 1li30.

On March I, 1993 '] Pines Park was offo:ially declared Historic Site #3 I 5 by the City of San l /\ hricf' ceremony was held and guest were heard by an cntlmsias· tic crowd estimated at I 00+. /\mong rhc were some of the lirst pilots to fly at in the late 192.0's and early 1930's including sailplane pilots Bud Pearl and Johnny Robinson. The o/lkc declared March Pines Clidcr Port Day." I.cncrs from Gov. Wilson, Senator Feinstein, and l ,ynn Schenk were read and glowing praises for' I<Jrrcy were delivered Councilwoman /\hbcy Wolfschiemcr and Assemblywoman D.D. /\!pert.

Members of the I lisrorical Site Board, Jim V:rnglrn and Par on the continuing historic of om site. speaker Wills spoke memories of' forrcy and I he son Boh was the fl 1·s1 f1y here. I the was a low contcsr with more than a dozen sailpla11cs and many R/( :'s com pct·" The oC the Historical Site dcsig11atio11 can1101 he m1ders1atcd. '1 'hanks to tlw two year dfons of I he Pines Council, we 110w have a site rh:it will 11cvcr he lost to dcvcl opmcnt and will he here fcir Ii.it urc genera tions of pilots to Our next step is 10 scrnrc the sailplane ru11way (owned by UC and to seek State and Federal rccognit ion. /\11 hough several members of the 'l<Jrrcy Pi11cs Soaring ( :ouncil con trilrn ted to this much of' 1hc work and research was done by Dr. Larry and his family. For this we wish 10 express our smccre tudc.

TBT is currently producing two glider tow system The first is :1 wider system that uses 3/16" uhrali11c, a11d the other is a spool that uses 7/6/i" kcvlar or .075 spectra line. (The adv,mtagc ofthc skinny system is autom,11ic leveling of' the line on the spool. With a rarn . air chmc you can rewind the line while sitting in the vehicle. Yo11 can also use a ra11H1ir chute with the wider spool bu1 yon have to guide the line on hand.) The advantage of the wider spool is the lower cost ohhc 11ltralinc. Both systems 111ilizc drivcr·-controllcd hydraulics, or spot1(:r·comrollcd if you prcfor, wirh an adjustable knoli and an automatic on/o/flevcr. The glycerine-filled gauge is firmly connected to the masrcr cylinder for easy reading. The hydraulic hoses arc steel lm1idecl, brass fitted, filled with silicon and rated to 1,000 lbs. The electric motor is a fom. field reversible winch rnotor, not a starter, with scaled roller bearings 10 allow for bclt·clrivcn rewind.

I IANC Ct II )INC

Update The spool sides are made out of aluminum and are precision machined for a perfectly balanced spool. The core of the spool is made from UHMW, ultra high molecular weight plastic. The bral<-e is automotive with a ventilated rotor to prevent warping. The company comments that it is very strong, malcing it perfect for tandem towing. A single arm mount helps create a very compact system that can be easily mounted on a truck, boat or trailer. The main difference between the two systems is the line guide on the skinny system. A skinny tow system that automatically levels the line requires a guide on the front that centers the line loading on the spool to ensure a proper wrap. A stainless steel ring, a swiveling system and a set of rollers reduce the friction on the thin line required for a skinny system. The rollers are spring loaded so that they are in constant contact with the line, so the spool can be stopped at any time during rewind and the line will remain right on the spool. This also adds a safety feature, since if for some reason the line becomes slack with the pilot still connected, the line will not become loose on the spool preventing any possibility of the line getting caught on the tow system. In addition, the spring loading allows for splices or even a knot to go through the line guide. The rollers in the line guide are high rpm precision roller bearings rated to 4,500 rpm under a heavy load and 8,000 rpm under minimal load. Contact: Larry Keegan/TBT, 1627 Kenwood, Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 7642991.

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May 1993

PRIZES DONATED TO THE WORLD TEAM SWEEPSTAKES QUANTITY - ITEM - DONOR- VALUE I 5

The ARC Helmet - Jim Lee - $300 Cloudbase Video 3, Hang Gliding Extreme-Adventure Video/Paul Hamilton - $35 ea. Aerodyne Helmet - Sail Wings Hang/Paragliding- $85 UP Gear/Harness/Backpack - Desert Hang Gliders - $75 3,000' 3/16" roll Ultraline- Cajun Hang Gliding Club - $105 2 "Smoothie" Towing Releases - Reel Altitude/Brad Lindsay- $45 ea. 1 Davis Turbometer- North America Paragliding- $155 l 2-sided silk screened Sweat Shirt - North America Paragliding- $29.95 5 2-sided silk screened T-Shirts - North America Paragliding - $15 ea. Full Face Integral Helmet - Sequatchie Valley Soaring - $185 CG 2000 Pod Harness - Center of Gravity, Inc. - $525 Med. Trainer Harness w/bag- McNett Harness Co. - $125 Motel accommodations for 2/Chattanooga - Crystal Air Sport Morel - $66 30% off Purchase of Blackhawk Harness rhru 12/93 - Silver Wings Inc. - 30% off 12 Hang Gliding T-Shirts - Kitty Hawk Kites - $14-$19 ea. Two-Day Instructor Lesson for HG or PG - HG & PG School of Oregon - $180 Free Emry into 1993 National Championships@ Lakeview, OR- Northern Calif. X-C Country Pilots Assn. - $175 2 Hall Airspeed Indicator & Long Bracker - Hall Brothers - $30.50 ea. l Wills Wing Harness Bag, one set Lg. Wheels 1-1/8" - Top Flite Hang Gliding- $88 3 Video "HELICOPTER HANG GLIDING AT LAKE BERRYESSA" - Sacramento Hang Gliding- $29.95 ea. Altimeter/Vario - Roberts Glider Instruments - $275 2 Takeoff and Landing Clinic- Mission Soaring Center- $95 Camelbak Drinking System - Wright Brothers Wings (Kevin Wright) - $40 The Whack Video - Fly High HG - $30 Hang GlidingT-Shirt- Raven Sky Sports HG & PG - $19.95 Tow Release Bridle Set - LID Enterprises - $43 Map Sleeve - LID Enterprises - $11. Tow Launch Check List - LID Enterprises - $2 1 Mini Vario - Mallettec Mini Vario - $169 5 "Far Gone Flying" cartoon books - Bob Lafay Cartoons - $9.95 ea. Wills Wing Z-rype harness gear bag- Spectrum Hang Gliding - $48 l $30 cash - Pilot supply/Bret Hilliker - $30 2 T-Shirts from 1992 Telluride H.G. Festival - Telluride Airforce - $12.50 ea. \X!indshields Polarized Sunglasses - Windsports Soaring Center - $32 Camelback Sports H20 Delivery System - \X!indsporrs Soaring Center - $35 Bell Helmet - Flight Systems/Dan Skadal - $125 1 Two Single Paragliding Lessons - Hang Gliding & Paragliding Emporium -$100 ea. 2 One Day Hang Gliding Tour - Colorado Cloudbase - $150 ea. Wills Wing Gear Bag - Wills Wing - $80 l Quick Release- Thermal- $49.95 2 30% off Wills Wing Glider or Harness or Parachute - Pilot Supply- 30% off Set of Control Bar Wheels - TEK Flight Products - $28 Set of Christmas Cards (20)- TEK Flight Products -$15 Set of Stationary Cards (12) - TEK Flight Products - $6.60 Gift Certificate for 2-1/2 days of Paragliding- Traverse City HG/PG - $225 2 "Performance Flying" (autographed) - Dennis Pagen - $30

a USHGA Reports USHGA Announces

• Awards will be offered for flights of 50, I 00, 150, 200, 250 and 300 miles. Flight do not have to be made in this order. • Only flights made after April I, 1993 will qualify for awards. • If towing is used, the launch point is considered to be the location at which the tow line is released. • "Official witness" applies to anyone who actually witnesses the launch, landing or turnpoint. Turnpoint witnesses may be on the ground or in the air. Photo verification of turnpoints is acceptable and, if used, must be enclosed with the application. • Barographs can be used, but are not necessary. • Documentation must include a completed USHGA Flight Award Application (published in this issue). • Badges shall be issued by the USHGA office, which shall keep a record of pilots' names, dates and completion of badge flights. ~ • The fee is $10.00 per award. ~

New Award Program by Jan Johnson, USHGA Awards Commiftee Chairwoman

ver the last several years the Awards Committee has been exploring new ways of recognizing the achievements of the USHGA membership. The Lilienthal Awards celebrate the progression from fledgling to soaring flight. While there are more and more flights of great distance on a regular basis, cross-countty flying continues to be a challenge as well as a measure of a pilot's personal best. The USHGA announces the creation of the X-C Award program. Pilots may apply for badges in recognition of flights of 50 miles or more which meet the following criteria.

QUALIFICATIONS • The pilot must be a USHGA member in good standing. In tandem flights only the pilot in command may apply for an award. • Only one award per flight. • Flights must not violate Part 103. • A sporting license is not required for the badge unless the flight is in conjunction with attempting a world or national record. • Flights may be made in Class I, II or III hang gliders. • Flights will be straight-line, triangle, or out-and-return.

USHGA X-C Flight Award Application These awards are administered by the USHGA and all applicants MUST be full members. Award fee: $10.00 PILOT'S NAME _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ USHGA# _ _ _ _ __ ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ CITY _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE _ _ _ _ ZIP _ _ __ Award Claimed (iniles flown, circle one):

100

150

200

250

300

Date of Flight _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Flight Location Launch Witness Signature Landing Witness Signature Turn Point Witness Signature

0 Straight Line

0 Triangle

PILOT'S SIGNATURE

0 Out & Return

Turn Point Photo Enclosed O YES

O NO

DATE

Send to: USHGA X-C Awards, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, CO 80933 12

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JII! Calendar of Events Calendar of events items WILL NOT be listed if only tentative. Please include exact information (event, date, contact name and phone number). Iterns should be received no later than six weeks prior ro the event. We request two months lead time for regional and national meets. Until September: 1v!o11tana Cross Co1111t1y Challenge. For entty info and forms contact: Roger Lockwood, P.O. Box 234, Fort Benton, MT 59442 (406) 622-5677. Until Dec. 1: Mountain Wings 3rd Annual "up the valley nm" X-C challenge. $100 to the pilot with the longest flight north and $200 to the first to land at Rhinebeck Airport. First place gets name on perpetual trophy. $15 entry. Sept. 25-26: 2nd Annual Vision Classic and pig roast. Low key fun fly-in, tuning and maintenance seminar with Ken Brown of Pac Air. Contact: Mountain Wings, 150 Canal St., Ellenville, NY 12428 (914) 647-3377. Until Dec. 1: 1993 Region 9 Yearlong X-C Contest. Recognizes the longest flights flown in Region 9 between Feb. 1 and Dec. 1. $5 entry fee. Contact: Pete Lehmann (412) 661-3474 (before 9:00 P/vl), fax 3436. Until Dec. 1: Tennesset Tree Toppers Yearlong X-C contest. Flights must be flown from TIT sires. T-shirts, jackers, trophies. Submit entries to: TIT. P. 0. Box 1286, Dunlap, TN 37327. May 1-2: Mountain Wings, EJ!enville, NY (914) 647-3377. May 8-9: Airtime of San Francisco, CA (415) 759-1177. May 15-16: True Flight Concepts, Sylmar, CA (818) 367-6050. June 19-20: Vulcure Hang Gliders, Riverton, UT (801) 254-6141. July 27-29: Lakeview, OR at the Nationals. Sept. 4-6: Morningside Flight Park, Claremont, NH (603) 542-4416. Enterprise Wings Demos. Contact: Nelson Howe, Enterprise Wings (603) 823-8195. May 1-2: Tandem Clinic. May 22-23: Paul Hamilton (Jvfr. Video) clinic/seminar. May 2931: Reno Rampage (hang gliding and paragliding fly-in). June 18-20: Wild West Regionals for Region II. Contact: Ray Leonard, Adventure Sports, 3650 Research Way #25, Carson City, NV 89706 (702) 883-7070. May 1-2: North Carolina State Championships, Stewart Smith Memorial HG Tournament, Moore Mm., Perry Lowe Orchards 10 miles north of Taylorsville, NC off Hwy. 16. Spot landing, bomb drop, duration, X-C, fun, prizes, cash, Apple Barn Festival, barbecue, live music, dart tournament Sat. night. Entry $40. Contact: Travis B1yant (704) 758-9331 or Ben Burri[ (704) 392-3765.

May 1-2: Jvfay 1st Ht1ng Gliding Fly-In, to benefit the men's and women's World Teams, Point of the Mountain, Utah. Prizes & awards. Contact: Rose Career (801) 576-9804. May 8: Point of the Mt11., UT photo seminar with John Heiney. Contact: (801) 359-6036. May 7-9: 21st Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular. Oldest continuously-held hang gliding meet, Jockey's Ridge State Park, NC. Novice and experienced pilots. July 17: Vi'right Kite Festival. Aug. 15: 45th Annivmmy ofRogallo wing invmtion. Honors F.M. Rogallo, inventor of the flexible wing and "father of hang gliding." Sepe. 19: 4th A1111ual Flyi11g Wheel Rollerblade Spectacular. Oct. 16-17: 6th

Annual Outer Banks Stunt Kite Competition. Oct. 23: 2nd A111111al Vision Clt1ssic. Pac Air brings the latest gliders for fun competition on the sand dunes. Contact: Kitty Hawk Kites, 3933 S. Croatan Hwy., Nags Head, NC (919) 441-4124. May 15-19: Arizona Hang Gliding ivfastm, Mingus Mountain, AZ. A high quality contest patterned after the USHGA 450-point style meets. A simple 35 mm camera will be required for turnpoint photography. Awesome flying from one of Arizona's best sites. Trophies and many assorted prizes daily! For pilot information package send SASE to: Nick Kennedy, P.O. Box 1026, TeJluride, CO 81435 (303) 728-9602. May 21-23: Region 6 Regionals, Buffalo Mm., OK Contact: Ron Kenney (316) 697-2577. May 22-24: Saskatchewan Open Towing ivleet, Craik, Saskatchewan. X-C meet. Entry $30. Contact: Craig Lawrence (306) 692-9455. May 22-30: Sandia Classic at Sandia Peak, Albuquerque, NM. 450 WTSS points guaranteed. 60 pilots maximum. 45 slots reserved for national and in ternarional pilots ranked by WTSS and PIRS, remaining slots allocated according to postmark. Price includes: entry fee, cash purse of at least $1,500, paid staff, pilot and glider transportation, oxygen refills and top quality X-C tasks. Early bird price $250 through April 30, $300 after May 1. Refundable through May 15. For a pilot information package, contact Mike Gregg (505) 275-5978 or Mark Macho (505) 2982922. Sandia Classic, 12117 St. Ma1y's Drive NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111 U.S.A. May 29-31: 12th Annual D1y Canyon Fly-In, Alamogordo, NM. Competition for all skill levels. Duration, spot landing, pylons and more. Trophies and barbecue. Meet at 9:00 AM in the LZ on Florida Avenue in Alamogordo. Enny fee $20. Sponsored by the Rio Grande Soaring Assn. Fly the friendly

skies! Contact: Dave Church (505) 527-0844, Tom & Cindy West (505) 437-5213, Robin Hastings (505) 382-7446. May 29-31: Starthist!e Meet, Rogue Valley HGA, Medford, OR. Fun fly-in, Hang III or Hang II with instructor release. $20 entty includes Sat. night barbecue. Participation in events nor required ($5 helmet sticker requested but not required). Portion of profits goes to local community. Camping. Contact: Newt Stevenson (503) 773-1187 (days) or Jan Bailly (503) 779-2516. Call for rain date. May 29-31: Region 8 Regionals. Contact: Bob Corbo (802) 263-9265. June 3-6: Second Annual Texas X-C Championship,\ Region 11 Regionals, Big Spring, TX. Evetyone invited with minimum Hang II and towing sign-off. Try to break the site record of270+ miles or demo gliders. Open X-C, out-and-return and race-to-goal format. Contact: Tim Doogs (817) 921-6957. June 12-13: Hobbs Tow jam, Hobbs, NM. X-C racing. $25 entry. Bring your tow rigs. Contact: Curt Graham (505) 392-3638 or Hobbs Chamber of Commerce 1-800-6586291. June 18-20: Region 2 Regionals. Contact: Ray Leonard (702) 883-7070. June 18-20: USHGA-Sanctio11ed Region 5 Regionals, 1993 King ivftn. X-C Meet, near Arco, ID, site of the Idaho state record. Format is open-distance X-C along designated routes with goal bonuses. Entty $20 for IHGA membership. Contact: Albert Whitesell, 1065 Terry Dr., Idaho Falls, ID 83404 (208) 522-2423, or Ken Schreck (208) 785-0196 for rules and site info. June 19-20: 21st Annual Cochmne 1v!eet, Cochrane Hill, Cochrane, Alberta, Canada. Hang gliding and paragliding, flight to goal. Free camping at the site. Contact: Vincene Muller, Muller HG & PG Ltd., RR #2, Cochrane, Alberta, Canada TOL OWO, (403) 932-6760 phone & fax. June 19-21: Region I Regionals, Chelan Butte, Washington. This has been a very successful and popular meet and all the pilots like our new format - triangle tasks wirh an aerial start gate. $40 ($35 pre-register by June 12). Oregon and Canadian pilots especially invited to attend. contact: Davis Straub, 747 16th Ave. East, Seattle, WA 98112 (206) 3221184. June 23-27: Whiskey Peak X-C Classic, 60 miles southwest of Casper, WY. Fly the world's greatest foot-launch X-C site. Low-key, geared for all skill levels with unintimidating X-C flying over unlimited, unobstructed landing HANG GLIDING

Calendar of Events zones. $50 entry includes membership in \X!PPA, T-shirt, daily prizes and custom trophies. Contact: Kevin Christopherson (307) 235-3367 days (307) 473-8655 nights. June 25-27, Sept. 24-26: Adva11ced er Basic JCPs, UP Soaring Center, Draper, UT. Contact: Joe Bill Henry (801) 576-6460. June 26-27: Eagle Summit Challenge, Central Alaska, northeast of Fairbanks. Vision Classic, ridge race, our-and-return triangle, distance race and more. $20 entry. Contact: Lyndon Thomas (907) 479-5538. June 25-July 11: I 993 World Hang Glidi11g Champiom·hips, Owens Valley, CA. Contact: James Zeiser, 93 Worlds, Inc., 13154 CR 140, Salida, CO 81201 USA. Phone/fax (719) 5393900. July 3-8: Chela11 Cross Co11nt1y Classic, Chelan Butte, Washington. Site of the 1985 and 1986 U.S. Nationals. Everyone really enjoys themselves at this competition. The format is pilotcalled (or recalled on course) triangles, outand-return, and open distance combined format. Last year's longest flight was over 150 miles. $70 ($65 pre-register by June 26). Contact: Davis Straub, 747 16th Ave. East, Seattle, WA 98112, (206) 322-1184. July 18-24: Jv!mwfocturen League Jvleet, Dinosaur, CO. Third of this year's 450-point meets. All individuals and reams welcome. Grear flying, trophies and prizes. Also includes US. Women,· Championships. For pilot information package send SASE to: Nick Kennedy, P.O. Box 1026, Telluride, CO 81435 (303) 728-9602. July 26-30: Fly West Hang Gliding Ltd. 7th An1111alX-C Camp, Golden, BC. Retrieval $100 for the week (if required register early). $25 entry, competition format. Contact: Rod Porteous, 199 Marlyn Place NE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2A 3K9 (403) 235-2440, fax (403) 272-0450. July 31-Aug. 2: Western Canadian Championships, Golden, BC. Hosted by the Rocky Mm. Hang Gliding League. Limited to 35 pilots. Entry $30 Canadian. Register in advance to reserve place. Send entries to: 1111 Memorial Dr. NW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 3E4, or call Ken Shackleton at (403) 295-1575. July 31-Aug. 6: Oshkosh airshow, USHGA will be represented. John Heiney and other USHGA members will demo hang gliding rowing. Contact: USHGA headquarters (719) 632-8300. July 31-Aug. 7: US. Nationals, Lakeview, OR. Contact: Russ Locke (408) 737-8745.

May 1993

Aug. 16-20: Oregon Oc61ssey and X-C Clinic. Beginning in the north, we will fly cross-country 200 miles south in five stages, launching a different site each day. If you're not already an expert X-C pilot, by the end of this tour you will be! $125 includes transportation, retrieval, sire fees, camping fees, X-C instruction and guide. USHGA Intermediate with FM radios. Contact Rodger Hoyt (503) 664-3055. August 19-22: Region 4 Championships, Paradox Valley, CO. The popular seminars on all aspects of hang gliding continue! 25-mile long ridge with a 2,000' vertical at launch provides for a spectacular and reliable site. Hang II rating required. Easy 2'XID graded road to launch. Trophies and prizes for both individuals and reams. Camping right at launch. For pilot information package send SASE to: Colorado Cross Country Pilots Assn., P.O. Box 1026, Telluride, CO 81435 (303) 7289602. Sept. 4-6: XC clinic, Reno, NV area. Butch Peachy will host this seminar designed to build XC skills for Hang II]+ pilots. Contact: Airtime of San Francisco, 3620 Wawona, San Francisco, CA 94116 (415) 759-1177, fax (415) 759-1182. Sept. 4-6: 1Wagazi11e !V!t11. Reunion Fly-In. Come celebrate 18 years of great flying, camping and camaraderie. There will be a potluck picnic on Sept. 5 in the Albright's landing field, Waveland, AR. Contact: Charrie or Mark Stump (501) 636-7944. Sept. 4-6: St1ilpla11e Homebuildm Asm. western

di1Jision workshop and vintage sailplane show, Tehachapi, CA at Mountain View Airport. Contact: Bruce Carmichael (714) 496-5191. Sept. 4-12: National Paragliding Championships, Aspen, CO. Contact: Jan Srensradvold (303) 925-7625. Oct. 1-3: October's Best Fly-In, 1993, sponsored by the Saurarown Mountain Hang Gliding Club in North Carolina. Grear Autumn flying with cash prizes and "June Bug's Famous Barbecue Chicken Dinner." The flying sire features three different launches that face SE, SW and NW and handles everything in between. Free camping in the LZ. Contact: Mike Nester (919) 983-0875 or Doug Rice (919) 994-4377. Oct. 8-10: USHGA foll bomd ofdirecton meeting, Manchester, NH. Contact: USHGA headquarters (719) 632-8300.

Lots of hot air rocketing around

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n 1hc abo11t Ellenville two months ago, I made a serious om1ss1011. When I rolled imo town, I c1lled (

and J11dy Black at Mountain After rhc I sat down with them 10 get the inrormarion for the article. 10 mention tliat there's m1othcr school in the area Your faitl1fol reporter to overlook th is

om of the an

lt1unch.

quatc research. Paul also corrected the : record 1h;1t was 98 miles is the correct d ranee, hill tli:11 got the pilot "on to

Connecticut. Tl1c published dcsrinat ion of' Rhode lslancl is at this t imc a dream. 'I 'he article ;1lso talks about a t h rec own cd l nc.) I hat OWIIS informed that ( shares 10 die partner,

sole owner and

Sunset Moun will he sole owm-rs of the trai

hill. The Sornhern New York l ,lider lots Association will lease the site from alld the oprn. The

to rhc

Fllcnvil I('

f}tul (()Iii)

Covelli(') 14) (91/i)

I 008 (home) or

184/i(work)

• So. NY /Hi' Pilots Assn., Scott Wise, President (2.0 I) II When it rains it pours, I guess. I screwed In last momh's article on Lookout up Mountain l mentioned an ancient rcscn1mcn1 that some of rhc local told me ;1\Jout I said that Matt Tiber

up the ball and ran with it negotiations to our rh:n the story was correct, :md 1ha1 the dub rat tht timt did end up pu afrcr rl1c cl11h decided 1101 to. The incorrect Matt's n:m1c; he I he i11cidc11t! I Mau wirh the

Acco rd

, "Alabama"

to local

comes from an Indian word that means "clear the thicket." (Wow, I JIJ\TE put the period inside tlic quotes!) I /::now it.i hut thnn'.( the cmd a !JIG!/ <.LIJSS

tools hclpi ng more launch, and sawbriars than [ ever h undcrs1a11d clearing 1hickc1s I 1101 fomiliar with :1 cross between cactlls ;rnd hoa constrictors. up and wrap 1hcrnsclvcs This is N( I"

launch and end llj) in Ridge is 11;1 med

local 'he o/Vici;il name as

who's very ,ls the m;1p

Site Info -

Rudy's Ridge, Alabama

SITENANIE

Rudy's Ridge (Keel Mountain)

CHAPTER

Rocket City Airsports 915 Hereford Road Gurly, AL 35748 (205) 776-9995

LOCATION

15 miles east of Huntsville, in Gurly. Take Highway 72 to the Gurly exit, and head southwest on Little Cove Rd. 1/4-mile to Miller Rd. Turn left and head south 1-1/2 miles on Miller, and follow it as it turns west. Turn left at Gray Rd., and the LZ will be on your left, just past two houses (the second has a windsock). NOTE: PEOPLE USUALLY MEET AT A BARN IN GURLY, ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE GURLY POST OFFICE.

ALTITUDE

1,600' MSL, 920' AGL.

RATING

Novice (Hang II). Experienced paraglider pilots on higher-performance canopies are welcome, but this is probably not a ve1y safe launch for them. The glide to the LZ (over trees) could also present problems for paragliders.

PROTOCOL

This is a ve1y informal site, but of course every pilot must be a current USHGA member. BRING YOUR LOGBOOK- IT WILL ALSO BE CHECKED!

RESTRICTIONS The Huntsville ARSA starts about 10 miles west of launch. There is no other restricted airspace nearby.

FEES

Full membership: $30/year, including a sporadic newsletter that comes out approximately four times/year. Weekend pass: $5.

LAUNCH

Large grassy area cleared from the trees with a gradual 15°-45° slope that drops to about 60°-70°. There is a large windsock right above launch, strung between the surrounding trees. Additional trees to glide over could present problems for paraglider pilots.

Huge, flat and grassy with power lines down one side.

DIRECTION

Launch faces northwest, and can be launched in west to northeast winds (soarable in northwest to northeast winds). There is also a southwest launch and LZ that may be available, depending on the season.

SETUP AREA

Room for 10 gliders right next to launch; 30 gliders can be set up if ve1y close together and spilling into the surrounding woods.

ROAD

Paved most of the way. The last 300 yards are a 2WD dirt road that winds through an area full of junk (mostly dead cars) that should be left alone. 15 minutes.

CAMPING

Camping is free by pe1mission at launch, but NOT IN THE LZ! There is also a nearby log cabin with a hot tub that may be available for rent. Contact Robert Patterson.

X-C

Good potential, and there are LZ's all over, but crossing the Tennessee River is difficult. The current site record is 65 miles by Charles Cozean to Holland, Georgia.

EVENTS

There is a yearly X-C competition with a $10 entry fee, and cash prizes for the longest flights of the year. There are also numerous fly-ins and cookouts scattered through the year.

BEST TIME

Rudy's Ridge is flyable year-round, and usually soarable to 4,000' - 6000' MSL. Spring and fall are best, producing altitudes from 7,000' - 8000' MSL.

FREQUENCY

151.625 MHz (USHGA)

CONTACT

Robert Patterson, Rocket City Airsports (205) 776-9995, or Jeff Cook (205) 880-8512.

MISC

This is the last site in the Appalachians "in the toenails, not the foothills."

HANG GLIDING

are concerned is Keel Mountain, and the two names arc used interchangeably. Former US! !CA VP Dick lleckman cbircd the site aro1111d 1982., hut it was later lost as the result of' a tree-landing incident that crnscd rcsrnc crews to t-car up a soybean Held near the l The site was closed for six years, then Rohen Patterson got permission to clear launch again and secured an LZ from a difforcnt landowner. Shortly rl1crc:afrer Rob purchased the launch, making ir yet another pilot--owned hang gliding site. He nms Rocket City Airsports, and has T shins that mimic the old RCA "his master's voice" logo, cxcepr that the dog is looking at a glider rather th;111 a phonograph. The road to la11nch passes rhrough what looks like a junk yard, except thar one of the

lassy Mollntain is nor named for the typical flying conditions there, hur rad1cr for a rock omcropping near its top. During the wimcr, water freezes onto the face of the rock, producing a smfocc. ·!'he launch at ( is priva1cly owned by three pilots, reflecting what seems 10 he a nationwide trend toward preserving our few remaining flying sites hy them. The Somh Carolina llGA m:rnagcs the site for them, and they're a grea1 group of guys. 'I 'hey have several older members (60+), bur no women in the club. In foct, Betsy was the second woman ever to fly there! The sexist membership roster is by accidcn t, 1101 design, glider pilots arc very wel;ind fc:malc come here. lmt paraglider pilots (of any arc not allowed. The road to lmrnch is private and passes through a g11ard-gatcd community, and tht

local

are the only r1l!oUJed the gate. This is obviously a very (i·ag·

ilc setup, so he sure to observe all speed lirn-

May I<J9l

neighbors lives there! There arc lots of dead cu·s around, including a 1960's style hippie VW bus. From the air, a spectacular view of a junk yard awaits you. Actually, the view is

very pretl y wirh that one fairly small cxccp-· tion. The LZ is huge and grassy, the flying good, and the locals friendly. What more could you ask f<.x?

irs and drive courteomly. Be sure that your driver also drives camiously, as ir would only G1kc one glider truck racing through their residential community to close the gare to pilots and prevent easy access to launch. This is 1101 a site for inexperienced pilots, or :my pilot with sloppy launch or landing skills. The launch ramp is Am, and requires good :rnglc 01 attack control. The l.Z is large, hu r oricn tcd such 1har crosswind landings arc preferred here. I did sec one local pilot make a low approach right over the power lines and drop his glider in right next to the road, but this is

not the preferred ;1pproach, especially for pilots who arc unfamiliar with the site. Work on your crosswind landings and plan on landing farther away from the road and power lines for a more conservative approach. All visiting pilots arc required to contact the local pilots before attempting to fly here, hm they really don't have all that many hoops to jump through. Head on out 10 Somh Carolina, and they'll go out of their way to get you (lying!

Bh1DWI: The

Site Info -

Glassy Mountain, South Carolina

SITE NAME

Glassy Mountain

CHAPTER

South Carolina Hang Gliding Association c/o Jeff Stuart 171 Cannon Ford Dr. Inman, SC 29349

LOCATION

20 miles north of Greenville, at the intersection of state highways 11 and 101. Take Highway 25 north from Greenville and turn right at Highway 11. Head east on 11 until you get to 101, and the LZ will be on your left. NOTE: TALK TO A LOCAL BEFORE HEADING TO THE LZ!

ALTITUDE

2,660' MSL, 1520' AGL

RATING

Intermediate (Hang III) required. Novice (Hang II) pilots are allowed when accompanied by a local Hang III. I would personally recommend FSL (Flat-Slope Launch) skills due to the flat launch ramp. PARAGLIDERS ARE NOT ALLOWED!

PROTOCOL

The local pilots are a fairly loose-knit group, but of course every pilot must be a current USHGA member with liability insurance. It is mandatmy to contact a local before flying here!

RESTRICTIONS

No restricted airspace nearby.

FEES

Full membership: $50/year Daily membership: $5/day

LAUNCH

Launch is a flat (5° - 10° slope) concrete ramp that drops away to a fairly unforgiving 70° rocky slope. There is a small rock to the left of launch, but no significant obstructions.

The LZ is a fairly long and narrow grassy field with a small stream running down one side, power lines on 1-1/4 sides, and a small hill with trees down the remaining 3/4 side. The obstructions should present no problems for cautious pilots with crosswind landing skills, but could be treacherous if landing is attempted parallel to the highway.

DIRECTION

Launch faces due south, and is launchable in a light crosswind.

SETUP AREA

Room for 8-10 gliders within 50' oflaunch.

ROAD

The road is paved the whole way except for the last few hundred feet which is a 2WD dirt road. 20 minutes. NOTE: THE ROAD PASSES THROUGH A GUARD-GATED COMMUNITY. THE CLUB HAS SECURED PERMISSION TO BRING A LIMITED NUMBER OF VEHICLES (WITH GLIDERS ONLY!) PAST THE GUARD GATE, SO BE SURE TO DRIVE COURTEOUSLY AND OBEY ALL SPEED LIMITS.

CAMPING

Dry camping is available across the road from the LZ. Camping is NOT permitted at launch or in the LZ.

X-C

Limited, but possible. LZ's are limited, and there are lots of power lines around. The current site record is 43 miles to White Side Mountain. Definitely check with a local before attempting X-C here.

EVENTS

Spring Fly-In: Low-cost ($10) fun meet with spot landing, duration and X-C tasks. Held in April or May each year.

BEST TIME

Glassy is flyable year-round, and frequently soarable to a couple of thousand feet over. Late March through May and August through November provide the best conditions, with altitude gains of 3,000' - 4,000' possible.

FREQUENCY

146.610 (a local repeater) is most commonly used, but 146.650 is used when talking on simplex.

CONTACT

Jeff Stuart (803) 592-1470 Steve Tedstone (803) 292-8270 Steve Des Roches (704) 684-8477 Hi\NG GLIDING

Improve Your Flying

Improving Your Aerial Sense of...

a ance ost of us think of muscles as something which Arnold Schwartzenegger has too much of and we have too little. As time goes on Arnie seems to stay in shape carrying around all those millions, while our muscles merely atrophy. We tend to view them as little machines that are gradually wearing out. But muscles are more miraculous than we

May 1993

know. For example, if you suddenly drop a heavy weight, your arm doesn't shoot up into the air because of a built-in control. Also, muscle "memory" allows you to repeat an action without thinking about it, such as ··finding a guitar chord or swinging your glider into a precise turn. In this piece we'll discover one other muscle trick: telling our brains the orientation of our bodies.

Most of us think of our ears as receivers for sound - from cacophony to symphony, from noise to a nuance of melody. But nestled inside our heads along with all those gizmos for decoding vibrations are devices for detecting acceleration and positioning of our heads . Information from organs in the inner ear combines with that from special muscles and reports from our eyes to make up the whole 21

of the input to our brains for the purpose of orientation and balance. We endeavor to see how this information gets handled, what can go wrong and how we can improve the results. 1

SEMI C.IR.C.VLA R CANA.LS

THE CENTRAL CONTROL All the information from our sense organs must be collated and considered. That job is allocated to a portion of the central nervous system (CNS) which you can think of as your personal computer inherited from ancestors cavorting in the primordial slime. During our development, our CNS becomes programmed to interpret the data from the senses and maintain equilibrium in a one-G environment. This program is written mostly for a two-dimensional environment. Thus, problems can arise in the realm of flight where three-dimensional motion is the norm, and unusual orientations of the body with respect to gravity are possible. Before we investigate these problems, let us refine our understanding of our sensory input to the CNS.

The Muscles I don't know about your head, but mine is a solid block supported on a universal joint known as a neck. Muscles in the neck keep the head in position. Special receptors within the neck muscles monitor and report the change in length of these muscles, which gives the CNS an up-to-date reading of the head's position relative to the body. When this information is combined with the muscle report on gravity's pull on the head we have a complete picture of body orientation as long as things aren't changing. You can close your eyes and maintain your balance fairly readily.

WHAT GOES WRONG

lar canals and the utricle. Most of us have heard of the semicircular canals, and we know that they arc composed of three semicircles and are indeed canals filled with fluid and oriented in the three axes of pitch, roll and yaw (see Figure 1). Inside these canals are tiny hairs that detect angular accelerations by bending when the canal fluid moves with respect to the hairs. The utricle is similar in operation to the semicircular canals. It is a small cavity filled with a gelatinous layer that impinges on tiny hairs during linear accelerations. Thus, the utricle measures changes in velocity of a linear nature (straight line) while the semicircular canals measure changes in rotational velocity. It should be noted that these little devices do not detect motion, only acceleration or change of motion. In fact, after about 20 seconds the fluids will catch up to any steady motion and no longer provide input to the CNS. If motion - a turn perhaps - still occurs, that information must come from another source. The Eyes

The Ears The inner ear is a bit more complicated. It contains the vestibular apparatus which is composed of two components: the semicircu1 hfuch ofthe mt1terit1!/Or thi~· piece comesjiwn 11 series offOur articles

by Dr. Fred Del,1ct'l'd11 in Sporr Acrobatics magazine. Dr. Delacerda is a specialist in avimion physiology.

cling, the eyes automatically fixate on a distant object, then flick to the opposite side to find a new object once they have reached their lateral limit. It takes the eyes 0.2 seconds to perform this new fixation, so if you're turning too fast a new target will not be acquired. Also, after the inner ear fluids settle down and no longer report an angular acceleration, the eye-flicking action ceases. The result in both cases is blurred vision as objects race by like a film on extreme fast-forward.

Our eyes are our most important organs for maintaining orientation. If you doubt this, try riding your bicycle around in circles in a parking lot with your eyes closed. The eyes are marvelously engineered and connected to the CNS so that they can automatically fixate upon and track a moving object, even when the head is moving. If you are cir-

This setup, with several organs of position and motion detection connected to a central processing unit, has its limitations. For example, if we lose visual contact with the horizon - in a cloud or in snow we can quickly lose all ability to orient. The inner ear can only indicate changes in velocity and the neck muscles only provide information about orientation of the head with respect to the body, so we can be in a tum and not even know it. A strong pull-up may feel like a high-G turn and vice versa. Furthermore, when visual orientation is again acquired, a pilot may be engaged in an entirely different motion than that surmised. This sudden conflict of the senses can cause vertigo and instant nausea, a phenomenon to which I can personally attest. The next problem is known as the Coriolis Illusion. If you turn your glider long enough at a constant rate, so that the inner ear fluids reach equilibrium, then turn your head so that the axes of the semicircular canals are not lined up with your glider axes, you experience the illusion of motion about an entirely different axis than the real turn axis. This illusion can only be corrected by reference to the horizon. Another type of illusion occurs when a constant turn that has been held for over 20 seconds suddenly stops. The fluid in the semicircular canals keeps moving, making it seem like you're turning in the opposite direction. You have probably experienced this many times when you twirled around at the playground or made yourself sick at the carnival on spinning rides as a child. HANG GLIDING

A, a result of all these illusions and limitations, pilots can experience problems of orientation and balance when they first try maneuvers. For example, I have seen at least two pilots auger into the ground when trying their first multiple 360's. I once had a student who suddenly became disoriented every rime she began a simple turn on her glider. Even experienced aerobatic pilots may lose visual tracking in a spin after five revolutions.

EXTENDING OUR COMPUTER There is plenty of evidence that you can greatly improve the ability of your CNS to interpret complex data. For example, pilots new to maneuvers detect them as raking place very rapidly at first, but later report that their eyes can fixate longer and the maneuvers seem co slow down. Gymnasts taken on a hyperbolic flight to simulate zero G's in one study were able to perform maneuvers with no nausea symptoms as long as they had previously done them under normal gravity. If the maneuver was new they would experience nausea. Finally, any longtime pilot of any type of aircraft will report that he is able to withstand more turns, radical maneuvers and high G's currently than when he first started. So it makes sense to cry to train ourselves to handle maneuvers on the ground, if possible, before we discover our limits as pilot-incommand. Dr. Delacerda recommends three steps in such a practice in order to program our CNS's. Step I: Sit erect and fixate on a distant object ~ a light fixture perhaps. Now turn your head left and right (yawing) while nodding ir up and down (pitching). Do this as fast and as long as you care to in order co relate rotational acceleration to head position and establish a visual database for a vertical one-G load. Repeat the action wirh roll and pitch motions. Step II: Now do the same exercises in prone, supine and side positions. The idea here is to establish a database with a non-vertical loading. Step Ill Herc we wish to simulate varying and non-vertical G loads. Dr. Delacerda recommends using a trampoline to jump up and down while moving the head as above and fixating on a distant object. I further recommend a leg-powered merry-go-round at a playground. You can orient yourself in many positions relative to the G forces while you perform your head exercises (you might have to do this at night to avoid public ridicule).

May 1993

Finally, one of the best maneuver-resistance training devices is a common bicycle, with the bars set low enough so that your upper body is prone. You can pull G's in any orientation and perform rapid turns ,vhile you move your head. After you've completed your ground training you should be much better able to withstand the confusion brought on by aerial maneuvers. This is the best approach co prevent airsickness. Still, we recommend the tried and true method of gradually increasing the input to which you subject yourself. For example, if you are a new pilot, try single 360's several times before you attempt two together. Keep your head oriented the same as the glider at first. Later you can look at the lower wing tip to avoid confusion. The surest ,vay to lose your balance is to swing your head when pulling more G's than one.

you were younger you now have an excuse to partake of it. The intended result is ~111 more fun and flying ability aloft. ~

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We have all knmvn or heard tales about narural pilots who seem to be at home in the air from day uno. I suspect that part of this natural ability may be due to their already sophisticated CNS's acquired through genetics, or more likely training in their early years. The more time you spent on swings, monkey bars, bikes, diving boards, trampolines or cavorting underwater, the more likely you are to have programmed your CNS to handle odd accelerations and positions of the body. We can't all be naturals, but most of us can program our CNS's to perform respectably. If you missed all the fun when

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WIN A GLIDER Our Best Chance Ever For The Gold! Win a glider of your choice from Pacific Airwave , UP, or Wills Wing The 1993 Women's World meet will be held in Japan April 19th to May 1st. The 1993 Men 's World meet will be held in the Owens Valley June 26th to July 10th. Our U.S . Men's team won the gold medal in the 1992 Pre-Worlds! This is our chance to win the team gold for the USA! It will be very expensive to field these teams and we need your help. To encourage your participation , the USHGA is holding a SWEEPSTAKES .

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1993 World Teams SWEEPSTAKES Entry Form

Entries must be postmarked by July 31 , 1993 Yes , I would like to support the 1993 U.S. Teams . Please Enter me in the World Teams Sweepstakes.

NAME - -- - - - - -- - - - - - - - -

Total Donation $_ _ _ __

ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Women 's$ ______

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World $_ _ __ _

PHONE NUMBER

Only one entry per person.

Mail form to: USHGA, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs , CO 80933 The 1993 World team Sweepstakes is open to all USHGA Members excluding USHGA employees and their immediate families. Only one entry per person , with or without a donation. All entries must be postmarked By June 30th 1993 in order to be eligible. Drawing for the sweepstakes will be held at the USHGA office on July 15th 1993. The winners need not be present to win . The winners will be notified by mail no later than August 1st 1993. Winning entries are not redeemable for cash . Sweepstakes winners must be qualified to use the prize safely in order to be eligible to take delivery of the prize. Grand prize winner will have his/her choice of one hang glider from Pacific Airwave, UP International, or Wills Wing. The glider will be delivered by the manufacturers nearest dealer. The USHGA shall not in any way be held responsible for the airworthiness of the glider chosen by the grand prize winner. The grand prize winner will be responsible for the cost of transporting the glider from the factory to the dealer and any taxes incurred as a result of winning this prize. All other prizes will be given in the order drawn in descending order based on value . This offer void where prohibited by law.

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is an oily fluid so sca""d'NellJm,1> 111an1mal has a flexible surface. and oficn sray ahead of ships to

knots. Perhaps rhis 1lcxihlc

the tllrlllllencc their water. Some researchers ,"h'·"'"'""'" could create a laminar co1](Jj." induced

in several pop11lar science ""'"·"'·"''"''· In science, is always tested. My friend Brncc ( a hang glider t1,><:101"''" fi"om the was on rhc team thar researched the porpoise. 'I found th:11 the ercat urc only goes about 18 they ride the bow wave of ships to go fasrcr. The wh,Hcver its purpose, had to do with The pmpoisc's was and lots of muscle power. (I popular maga" zincs never publish results thar counter their stories. Even today, many people still think rhc porpoise can swim at high because of :ict ivc rnrhulcncc-damping skin.) thar rhc shape of the nnrn,.,,,,, a crucial clement in irs good

nrs1

itie riuthor rmd his new exotic lou1""wind-noise helmet.

Bruce l:11cr c1c.,;1p;r1ccl ;1 number

or undersea

devices with lamin:H flow shapes. S11lm1arincs use sonar, a device diar makes a loud The return sound, rhc echo, is up and and the location of' other and obstacles is determined. But, if the goes fast it is "blind," because the sound of

irs rush through rhc water blocks out the return echo of irs sonar. 1n modern suhs rhis problem is minimized hy a layer of rubber" coated blocks 011 springs installed over the hull to keep rhc sound of the turlrnlcnce f'rom blocking the sonar echo. Porpoises 11sc a form of sonar to /ind foh to Hi\NC CIIDINC

cat and 10 "sec." l thrn realized they have th:11 special /111id-ftllcd do11l,lc skin ····· not for

drag l,m sound damping, so it can swim fost and still hear its rcrnrn echoes. Hang glider like to hc:1r rhe s01md of' their glider moving through the air. c:111 sense hear the burble oft urhulcncc at stall, any ouH')\ tl!c-01·c\111a1·v from the ground or and their audio variomcrcr. Some 11sc helmets that have a hole mt i 11 them over the car. But h:1ve a prohlem. /\.s with the submarine or the porpoise, sounds cre:1tcd as the head passes though the !luid make so much noise right in the cars th1r cm't hear 01 her subtle sounds. I dc1;1p;i1ed helmet so qu ict that a pilot can 111ud1 better than with a hare head. I !ere years, one of the most <1cvclopm<:nts i11 hang has been the cqnipmrnt. Clidcrs have gotten strongn, with

higher glide the same sink rate and adjustahle reduction usrng more streamlined ruband smoother airfoils has imporram ingredient in ,1c111c·vm2. a1;101.mcl111f~ cros.',·COUl11 ry flights. I\ low is cru cial. There was ;1 need liir a special helmet ltlr spons, with m a prone position and \ight I a helmet in l 9S5 called the /\c:roclvnc," which was streamlined enough to ounces at 30 mph, comto a round or a b;irc head. It was popubr with competition pilors. This helrnet was designed spcci/ic1lly frlr prone gliding so it would nor slide down over your eyes whcn looking up. The can sec forward ;md up better when flying down. Over the years I shortened the rail ro dear lines which imcrfrrcd on some and added an energy absorbing polystyrene foam liner for bcacr head protection. In I 991 I made a kcvlar bol Hll1 to protect the mouth and jaw. But it became increasingly dif /1.rnlt to the company that made them f<.lr me to a run of /\.croclynes. I bad to order six months in adv;mcc. In rhc spring 1992 that company quit. I knew ir bad to happen. My hang glider hel met, or "Limbic Lid" as it was afh:ctionatcly nicknamed, wcm out of production. I think their demise may have had something 10 do wirh the passage of a "helmet law" in California. The company ovcrcxpandcd to meet an increase in demand that m:v· er happened. Now whar? I had ofrcn dreamt of' making an advanced Lambie Lid helmet using the new

May 1993

super materials like kevlar, carbon fiber or spectra. l decided to rake 1hc plunge and make my own so I wouldn't be at the mercy of manufocrurcrs that may not want to make a nm of my "niche marker" he].

mcrs once a year. ·!'he new hcl met was designed to pass all rhc relevant rests, such as /\.mcrican National Standards 90.li, and DOT The "Lambie Lid" liel met looks a liit like rhc old hut is more rnundnl and has much 1hickcr foam continuing around the because I rhink it is safer ro have ,ls much of the head protected by foam and as possible, to fond off a to 1hc side or die car.

The of helmet protection dictate that, when your head hits in an accidenr, the helmet spread the deceleration over a period of time. Broken hones heal and bruises disappear, hut the brain docs not recover from Blows to the brain arc the major cmse of crippling and death fi·om even minor accidents. The heart of a helmet is thick poly styrene foam. I\ proper helmet is designed ro have the foam crnsh progressively, so the shock to the brain is spread our over ;1 few milliseconds, which reduces the force by bun· dreds o/' C's from over 700 to around JOO G's. A rnhber-lincd helmet offers little real pro· tccrion it doesn't absorb energy, but stores it, and bounces back. <v<,,<nrn,,,·1e helmets arc not ideal for air spmts because they sl idc down over the eyes when yom chin is lif'ted up in a prone flying position, or, in a paraglider, ir's hard to sec the canopy or other flyers above. The helmet straps arc of nylon and encircle the head by going around the bottom of the jaw in front and around the back of the \1cac\, so rhc helmet can't fly off The quickreleasc buckle in front works by simply by squeezing the sides to open; to close, just push them together. The foam is I I /2 inches thick in front, two inches in back, and 7/8 to one inch thick over rhc top and sides.

TOP: Confr;am or "memoryfr;am" taf-:es on the a few minutes.

shr.tpi? o/your

and /m;lm are used to

produ/'C tl su, Jer··st1',m'V shell, ,md !-:eep the /otrzl weight o/the undr'r 1

Heads arc round, square, oblong and oval. So, although rhey may have the same circurn· forcncc at the forehead, they will not fo into a "small-rncdium·largc" mold. I thought sizing could only be a compro

mise. Then, in an aviation paper, I read an article about upholstering. There was mention of a new foam that automatically contours itself when subjected to pressure. It costs $350 extra per seat, but allows unlimited comfort for long flights. I called some aircraft upholstery specialists and I tracked down the companies that sell it. They call it "Confoam" or "memory foam" and sent some samples. I tried it in my prototype helmets. Strange stuff. Yes, it adjusts itself to pressure and rebounds very slowly. The confoam-lined helmet feels stiff, hard and uncomfortable when you first put it on. Then, after a bit, it warms, softens and takes on the shape of whatever is touching it. I tried some of this foam in one of my prototype helmets, wore it for hours, and hardly noticed it. It's comfortable because it doesn't push back as does regular foam. Yes, the stuff was great. Despite the cost, I decided to use it to make this the most comfortable helmet ever. Now, about the sound. I have never liked the rush of wind around my ears because I can't hear anything else. So, using my bicycle and a big fan I set about testing. I found that any holes made it harder to hea1; because the hole rushing through the air generated so much noise that's all I could hear. Foam sealing around the edges between the pilot's face and the helmet did two things. Drag is greatly reduced, and, because the air does not blow in and out of the helmet with resulting noise and turbulence, the smoother boundaty layer makes for better hearing ability. I found that even the helmet straps are crucial. If they are not flush with the wearer's face, turbulence noise increases. With this streamlined helmet, and no ear holes, the pilot can hear perfectly. The foam in front, between the helmet and the head, prevents the edge of the helmet from creating sound-producing eddies. Foam does not block

out sound, but keeps the air quiet. The effect is amazing. You can hear the boundary layer around the glider instead of a lot of wind noise blasting around your ears. When I tried it on fast bike rides I could hear the chain running, spokes twanging, cars coming up behind me, and didn't freeze my ears. Gold-colored kevlar is a synthetic fiber which has been around for 40 years. It is tough, strong and so hard to cut that you need very sharp scissors. Carbon fiber is stronger, by weight, than steel. The combination is so strong that less is needed to provide protection equivalent to that of a fiberglass helmet. The old Aerodyne, although a light fiberglass helmet, weighed more than two pounds. The new Lambie Lid prototype weighs less than a pound. After months of trying out various layout techniques, nylon versus polypropylene harness arrangements, working on sizing and liner materials, and making it quiet, the new Lambie Lid is ready. It has a base of pure carbon fiber, then a combined weave of kevlar and carbon for a combination of stiffness and toughness. Conventional safety helmets have the foam liner just pushed into the shell, and the liner is not bonded to the shell. I epoxy-bonded the shell to the liner so the helmet is all-of-a-piece, producing a much stronger unit. I also ,vanted to get away from the painted finish. Painting requires a compressor, blowers, spray booth, EPA compliances, masks for the sprayers, and contributes to air pollution. The epoxy-painted Aerodyne helmet was too easy to chip when storing and shipping. Of course, once a flyer owns a helmet, chips and scratches are prized signs of a useful and active flying career, but try selling a helmet with a chip or scratch. A brightly-colored fabric cover would be good looking, easily changeable, and no more chips or scratches. Of course, in production, it will have the boundary layer tripper to ensure it moves

through the air with the least turbulence. The "Lambie Lid" promises to be the lightest, strongest, lowest drag and most comfortable flying helmet yet.

Lambie Lid Features • Shaped for air drag reduction, with boundary layer tripper. • True composite, all epoxy-bonded construction. • Manufactured from kevlar and carbon fiber, the strongest, lightest materials known. • Thick foam in front and back. • Nylon straps for strength and stretch, circle the head. • Optional cloth covers for wide color variety, and chip and scratch prevention. • Light weight reduces inertia. • Conformable foam. • Sealed edges for better hearing ability.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: jack Lambie has been J61ing aiiplanes, gliders and weird machines for many years. He has been a Diamond C Soaring pilot since 1962, and organized the first hang glider meet in 1971 in which several ofhis "Hang Loose" designs were flown. In 1974 he founded Human Powered Vehicle racing and in 1976-1977 was on the team that won the Kremer Prize. He designed, built and flew the Wright Flyers for the movies "Orville and W!ilber" in 1371 and "Winds ofKitty Hawf/' in 1978. In 1973 he designed fairings for tntehs to reduce air dmg. In Jvlay and June of 1980 Jack flew a motorgliderfimn Chino, CA, to Acunsion, Paraguay He has designed and built air drag reduction devices for bicycles, cars and motorcycles. jack has also w1itten many flying stories and articles, as well as seven books, two of which, Ultralight Airmanship, and Composite Construction for Homebuilt Aircraft have gone into multiple printings. He is now working on his helmet design and production, stone sculp- ~ tures and a novel about air racing. ...,.

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Tow up to 3,500 AGL on a 9,000 ft. runway! ""' Concession Stand, Restrooms, and Shade! '"' FREE Continental Breakfast, and Party! ,,,, Demo GJiders from Major Manufacturers! USHGA card, Hang II with Towing Minimum. Registration by May 15th, $35. After, $50. Souv«mir T-Shirts 11.v~l!!,bl_e, $11). i:::r

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HANG GLIDING

That was then ••• 1973 U.S. Nationals Sylmar, California First Place - Chris Wills (right) Second Place - Bob Wills Photo by Clara Gath 1973

This •

now. 1992 U.S. Nationals Telluride , Colorado First Place - Brad Koji (right) Second Place - Chris Arai

In 1973, the first U.S. National Hang Gliding Championships were held at Sylmar California. Chris Wills won the meet on a Wills Wing glider. Bob Wills , brother of Chris and co-founder of Wills Wing , finished second , completing a one-two sweep of the event for Wills Wing. The following year, it was Bob who took first while Chris finished second, and Wills Wing had a second consecutive one-two Nationals sweep. Nearly two decades later, at the twentieth U.S. Nationals in Telluride , Colorado , Wills Wing pilots once again swept the meet, taking first, second and third , and five of the top six places . In the last nineteen years , a total of 32 U.S. National Championship titles have been awarded for flex wing hang gliders in various classes and categories. Wills Wing pilots have won fifteen , nearly four times as many as any other manufacturer. To win in competition requires both ability and a single minded dedication to the task at hand . At Wills Wing , we have tried to take these attributes and apply them also to the larger and more important task of providing pilots everywhere with the best possible products and services. As we prepare to celebrate our twentieth anniversary in hang gliding , we would like to thank all of our customers over the years who have continually inspired us to pursue the very best that is within us.

LU~

500 Blueridge Ave Orange , CA 92665

Nti

Phone (7 14) 998-6359

FAX (7 14) 998-0647

I --- ,A

What do you do to follow a 190-m ile pl us flight out of Walt's point flying the "right" way (north)? If you're Tony Peralez you fly south, the .. .

I l I

vvron

In wens

by Dennis Baker 32

emorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the flying season in the Owens Valley. T he rocks have been pushed off Horseshoe Meadows Road, the snows of the Sierra Nevada have started to recede, and the "porra-potty" has been hauled up and planted on Wa lt's Point. Anxious pilots from all over descend on Turtle Creek campground on Friday night, packing as many as five or six vehicles into a campsite. Campfires spring forth and the echo of, "There I was, thought I was gonna die," reverberates across the desert. As the members of Team Advil (generically know as the lbeforfun Gang) rolled toward the valley, the weather looked a bi t ominous. Afternoon winds are supposed to blow from west to east across Highway 395 in Adalanro. The wind was blowing the wrong way, from east to west l O to 20 with lots of clouds and even some showers. Nor to worry, Memorial Day weekend wotJd still be great with seven pilots, two drivers and the

ABOVE: HaLfiuay through a 196-mile flight over Boundary Peak in the Owens Valley, California. Photo by Tony Peralez. HANG GLIDING

old friends from List sea-

SOil.

The was 10 wake up m:1jor early, meet ar Diaz I .akc arom1d (d)O AM, then race up to la1111ch to get from line spots. What a surto arrive ;lt hunch at 6:50 AM :111d sec four set up. Bm, we we were c:1rly becrnsc Herb's Pledge was nowhere in The looked with clear skies and no indication of' strong winds. at Lnmch our ;1drcn:1li11 kicked in and we were up Two t I'll cks pa rkcd on wcrc almost up like mushrooms. ovn ;1 dozen gl idcrs were to lannch The number would and more were reach (the limit set by the Poresr 11 :00 AM the launch monitor, threaded his way through rhc collcct-

fccs and

He ,ilso h:1d to

practice some diplomacy with Jane" rhe gliders scr up on the road. ft was now rime to kick dirt, greet more frirnds, em breakfast and wait. Something was The occasional over the Sierra moved rapidly cnc for rhc south coasr I the wrong way. were up the canyon, but d1erc was a bit of a brce,,c developing. Mark Cibson was in the front row ml!ltcring about ofT before blown down. ] le suited up and bunched. We all watched ;1s he rock 'n' rolled, hung a right and started climbing up over the saddle. He proceeded to climh over Wanona Peak, behind launch, and then parked.· J 'here U)(/S something wrnng. Mark is 1101 the type of' pilot to Jiang around launch. A lot of "whar now, you go first, I think I'll wait" lcillowcd. Finally we "threw" Herb off launch, the only way ro bunch a hcing flown by Steve 'TII I le was followed Scott Smith, Tony and Mallett, the 'fram Advil Codfatl1cr. All launches were liairy to say the least thrn I 00-·foot thrown :1bom like a leaf: Lots of comments like "! think l'll wait a hit" were heard umil Steve Rudy was seen over the of Owrns Lake and l lcrb and · Denny were 011 the ground calling for our rookie to come and them for another try. It was 1ime for the rema1n1 team members to get oil the launch or lcfr behind. 'I 'here were few ''s11btlc" that it

May 1993

might be a go-south day: Mark Cilison p:irked ovn Wanona For an hour; Scott unahlc to gcr ro I .akc Diaz (abom f<mr miles 'l<rny, I krb and Steve disappearing toward Olancha (somh); the "rncs" in back; but most oC all the words of the Codfarhcr coming our of the 1:M: "Co south dummies." Bm, knows that's the wrong way. The Sierra shrinks and disappears and we ain't no flatland pilots. knew except 'J rmy. The chase with Michele, Scott, and Denny driving somh. What Follows arc excerpts oft he chase based on radio convcrsa t i o 11 s 111 o 11 ito red. ro 'I "Where arc Tony to Denny: "crmph rpf' ffr11f dcrff ncfd south." the above at various intervals about 30 more times. Scott to 'fony a very calm and mcayou've got to help smcd "Now us. Were on the California road. Do you sec us?"

Ttmy to Scott: "drf smfTd dfslr tdrn." Scott to 'lcrny: "OK! Let's rry something else. If you sec us hit your transmit a hunch of' ti lllCS." Tony to Sco11: "crcr crcr crn crcr crcr crcr." Scott to "Crear! Now one transmit for yes and two for no." (I krrny in the hackgro11nd, "I le can do that. I've been training him /cir years.") This went on and on and on wh ilc they drove somh through Redrock Canyon, to Mohave, past Rosemont, the toxic waste capital of the West, and on south. As Tony flew south, he lcfr a trail of grounded gliders. a TA member, mid Mark Mallen of the F:Jcarn (no relation to Denny) landed just short of Mohave. I lcrb and Steve couldn't stick with the tenacious · fony and came down hclc)rc Mohave (about 90 miles). More gliders made it ro Rcdrock Canyon miles). U11fortu11;1tcly, Bill Br;1dy gor upside down near Kennedy Meadows :md came down under canopy and had to spend the night near Personville (last chance fcir hubcaps north). This was who had nrnch to the chagrin of his no clue as ro where he was. Meanwhile Michele was learning what hang driving was all ahour She was struck hy the calm, reassuring tone that Denny and ·fony 10 push on Scott used in "just a little further." llow Denny wo11ld spin donuts with his van on the shoulder of the highway to indicate wind direction. The dude in the brand new pickup following was not amused. But most of all she w;1s b;1ffled by a drastic that c:11nc over Scott and CJ')

,).)

Denny. She knew that when a glider circled that was good, because it meant it was going up. But every rime Tony would get low and looked like he was going to land, and then turned at the last minute, Denny and Scott would scream, "DON'T TURN YOU SCUM SUCKING SUM-A-BITCH!" They assured her that they were just concerned about his health and safety. After all, he must be very tired and thirsty after all that time in the air. Finally he came down. Tony had flown 125 miles the "wrong" way from Walt's Point to Lancaster. Day t\vo. It stunk. Strong north again. Memorial Day was certainly memorable for Denny. The Ibeforfun Gang headed north to Lee Vining on Mono Lake. ("Lets get way upwind.") \'v'hat a beautiful launch overlooking Mono Lake all the ,vay to Nevada. We watched some "para-p's" launch. Good wind technicians. This was to be the Team Advil Godfather's day. He immediately climbed out over launch and drifted back over the peak. Then it was due south at just under 18,000 feet. Radio log: 'Tm at 17,999' over Grant Lake. On my left is Mono Lake, to my right is El Capitan and Half Dome." As things worked out I ended up chasing Denny south. I now have a greater respect for drivers. As Peggy and Michele collected the rest of Team Advil, which were spread from Lee Vining to June Lake; Denny worked his way south. Radio log: 'Tm at 17,999' over Mammoth Mountain. I'm getting snowed on, rained on, ands__ on. I'm heading for the valley." Denny had gotten himself on the leading edge of a system moving south. He sent me on down to Tom's place to wait. Wheeler Ridge lay in front of him, the last obstacle before the Owens Valley. As I waited I heard Scott Smith on the

radio. I could tell that he had a tough decision. He was approaching Mammoth Airport and right at the clearance limit. He pondered his dilemma a moment and chose to land rather than risk sinking into the airport's airspace. A commendable choice and still a good flight. Denny got over the ridge and the valley opened up below. He headed for the Tungsten Hills. He was hard pressed to find lift and it looked like west Bishop was to be the LZ. I sat at a nice LZ on West Line Road and relayed wind direction. South! Bummer! Radio log: 'Tm going to scratch over these hills. I'd really like to land at the Bishop airport." (He wanted to impress the "wuffos.") I noticed that the wind had shifted east. While he scratched, I turned the driving over to Tony who, with the rest of the team, had caught up with me. He and Denny had driven together, therefore Tony could pick him up at the airport. We loaded up and starred home. The end of a good flight? Nor yet. When we came out from eating dinner I turned on the FM. Radio log: 'Tm at 10,000' over Big Pine." What was this? He's in the air. Things were still weird in the Owens. He was drifting across the valley toward the Inyos on a westerly flow and we were getting pushed around while driving on Highway 395 by a stiff easterly. There had to be a shear someplace. He worked his way clown the eastern side of the valley past Independence, low. He was giving Tony directions on how to get to him and we were all yelling in the radio for him to keep his butt in the air and go to Lone Pine. (We even foolishly promised him a rib dinner ifhe made it.) Because I was driving south and we were talking simplex, I was losing the radio signal. The last thing I heard was, "Tony, do you know where the Manzanar airport is. I think

the

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I'm going to land there." This is just a few miles short of Lone Pine. What? He can't land. Not yet. I thought I was listening to one of those old-time radio serials: "Tune in tomorrow for the exciting conclusion." Well, luckily I didn't have to wait. Down the road I was able to make radio contact with the rest of Team Advil and they relayed rhe info. Yes, he had made Lone Pine and yes he wanted his rib dinner. Another outstanding flight the "wrong way" in the Owens from Lee Vining to Lone Pine (125 ~ miles). ~

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NEWS FLASH ... Is hang gliding a hot news item in your local paper? Please send clippings of stories, photos or articles to the Public Relations Committee through the USHGA office. We want to see your name, your club or your site mentioned in print!

USHGA - Public Relations P.O. Box 8300 • Colorado Springs, CO • 80933

HANG GLIDING

Competition Corner Region VII Update by Bill Bryden egion VII cominucs to grow both in membership and, lately, in geographic size. Because of changes at the last Board of Directors meeting, North and South Dakota are now included in Region VII. We extend a warm welcome to our 11 new region members; you arc welcome to fly ,vith us further south where . . . It IS warm anv trme. Details for a regional competition are still being finalized. We are targeting Memorial Day but some last minute problems with our airports have popped up (like new managemem at one and an airshow at the other) so we're having to rework a few things. Like the past couple years, this will be a tow meet with an emphasis on getting together and having some fun. Contact Larry Bunner at (815) 234-5388 or Bill Bryden at (812) 3724101 for details. Pilots in Region VII are encouraged to subscribe to one of several newsletters published by clubs in the region. I will be publishing in these, information germane only to our region or material maybe not quite appropriate for publication in Hang Gliding. For subscriptions comact the Reel Hang Glider Pilots Association c/o Peter Birren, 502 Shadywood, Elk Grove, IL 60007; the Chicago Hang Gliding Organization c/o Greg Fischer, 751 W Brampton Apt. lE, Chicago, IL 60657; Michigan Hang Gliding c/o Bill Fifer, 1509 E. 8th. St., Traverse City, MI 49684; Northern Sky Gliders c/o Pat Caulfield 2074 Vienna Lane, Eagan, MN 55122 or Milwaukee Hang Gliding Association c/o Paul Olsen, 326 Main St., Racine, WI 53403. There is some collaboration occurring between the several Chicago/Wisconsin area clubs and discussion of combining efforts for a whole region newsletter. Let's give them our support, including financial, to help that happen. In spite of the ,.veather, there has been some hard-core flying going on this winter.

May 1993

A number of Traverse City, lvfichigan pilots were towing on Lake Superior ice in late February. They were towing in front of a 750-fooc-high bluff along the Lal<e and reaching altitudes of 2,000 to 2,800 feet AIL (above ice level). Bill Fifer reports that it was rather warm one day, 20° F. Not to be outdone, a number of

[+J

Jviinnesota pilots were towing behind snowmobiles this ,vinter. Pat Caulfield indicated a couple of especially good days in February produced good flying when the mercury was at 18° below! He mentions Dan Johnson, Product Lines author, local pilot and USHGA Treasurer, hasn't been seen flying recently. \Xfhy is that Dan? As the new Director for Region VII, I'm here to support the sport as a whole and the pilots of Region VII in particular; please don't hesitate to contact me at: Bill Bryden, 1924 W Highland lane, ~ Columbus, IN 47201. ~

1993 Region IV Championships Paradox Valley, Colorado August 19-22 by Nick Kennedy

or the third year in a row, the Colorado Cross Country Pilots Association is happy to sponsor the Region IV Championships in Paradox Valley, Colorado. The flying is highlighted by a spectacular 25-mile-long red sandstone ridge facing south, and Paradox Valley holds a special place in the hearts of many who have experienced the awesome flying that can be had there. Last year the flying was hard to beat, with light winds aloft and moderate to strong lift during the peak of the day. Mornings and evenings are well suited to new pilots who want extended sled rides and maybe even their first soaring flights. The 2,000' vertical makes sled rides worthwhile for the fledgling pilot ,,,ith strong launch skills. Paradox is a low-key, social contest that is still well structured and managed. All scores are based on distance only, which diminishes the tension that sometimes develops during racing competitions. The contest vvill be scored at one point per mile ,vith a 25% bonus if you land in the desig-

nated goal field. '!}pica! tasks will be in the 20- to 40-mile range. You may choose to go open distance in any direction, however, in case the task is undercallcd. Facilities are primitive at launch and most pilots choose to camp up on top where the meet is based. There are many very nice campsites where you can set up in camp and walk just a few feet to launch. The nearby towns of Naturita and Nucla offer hot showers, restaurants and inexpensive motels. The soaring and safety seminars, on all aspects of the sport by top pilots, are a favorite feature of the meet. Some of the favorite topics last year were: retrieval considerations, contest preparation at home, team flying, how to safely and effectively get out of clouds, and landing in very restricted landing fields. Many more topics will be discussed and debated. This is an excellent way to learn different techniques and attitudes that pertain to soaring aircraft. This time of year was chosen after years of weather observation in the area.

11 Competition Corner Typically, the winds are light from the west, which is great because the X-C routes east follow paved roads and are all very landable. Cloudbase can easily go to 17,000' this time of year, so bring some warm clothes too! In case the winds turn

fickle you can fly any direction from Paradox Y,1.lley. Please join us this year for a good time at one of the West's best sites! Contact: Nick Kennedy, P.O. Box 1026, Telluride, CO 81435 (303) 728~ 9602. ~

The 1993 Arizona Masters Of Hang Gliding May 15-19, 1993 by Stan Mish and Rick Fritz n the mountains of Northern Arizona, high above the deserts and canyons, waits a legendary force the locals call the Mingus Monster. Local scouts at the camp know that the monster has a taste for the young, and a cavernous mouth which inhales its prey. In the ghost town of Jerome they say there is no monster, just various ghouls left over from rough times when Jerome was a frontier mining town. In the town of Cottonwood they say that the Mingus Monster belongs to some kid at the high school: his truck is six feet tall, sports 12 KC lights and has two bumpers the size of sewer pipes. The pilots here have a different theory about the Mingus Monster. The monster

is an awesome house thermal positioned off the point just left oflaunch. There are ghosts all right, plenty of them, about closing time at the Spirit Room bar in the town of Jerome halfway down the mountain. The town of Cottonwood has a nice LZ on the Verde river, and places to eat and cool off after flying. The flying site called Mingus Mountain is a great big morning thermal site. With a 4,000-foot northeast face of braided black rock canyons, Mingus makes a whole lot of hot air. The site turns on between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the valley inversion breaks and sends the south end of the valley to cu heaven. Once up at Mingus, tasks include out-and-return along the Black

Hills range, over the back to Chino and points west, and the time-honored open distance flights toward Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, and the mighty Navajo reservation. Mingus has good amenities for an organized flying event. There is a Forest Service campground right next to launch, complete with potties and picnic tables. The standard landing zone is a cleared lot in the town of Cottonwood. Cottonwood is an older rural community with farming and mining in its past and tourism in its foture. The town exhibits a welcome attitude toward pilots, kayakers, mountain bikers, et. al., which have all been appearing there lately. There are a couple of dozen restaurants, hotels, campgrounds with showers, and, of course, the river. If you fly 20 miles to the north, there's the red rock country of Sedona. Tall sandstone spires are a favorite with rock climbers and New Age vortex seekers. Fifty percent of the photos in Arizona Highwa)'s magazine come from this region, and it's a good place to send anyone who (Gawd forbid) doesn't want to spend the day on launch. The Sedona airport is a nice place to land (not on the runway, of course). Mingus Mountain is going to be the site of another Nick Kennedy production, a grandiose affair featuring gliders, pilots and air. For more info contact: Nick Kennedy, P.O. Box 1026, Telluride, ~ co 81435 (303) 728-9602. ~

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im Lee rn I97(i. He is the top-ranked pilot on th American World 'learn. He second in the ] 9<)2 Sandia Meet. I le started tition at the Owens Classic in 1981 ( :hris Arai srancd ham boo in I le was second at the 992 U.S. Nationals i11 'frllu second at the I 9<)2 i11osaur Team Meet and fclurth in rhc l 992 PreWorlds in )wrns He is ranked 1m111hcr two in rl1c U.S. I le started tition at the Owens Classic in J 978 but I 983 to I 988.

This interview with the two in rhc U ar the l 992 U.S. Nationals in Colorado in 1992.

I am almost able to get the thought out of my mind about how hare! the is. I used to say on the radio, but I'm to the poim where I can get it out my mind ;me! co11cc1Hratc on what is on. One of the in competition fi_ll' me is thm if [ get at all l have trouble concentrating on the . For instance, it used to be rhar when l was in the lead in a meet, I woul<l think ahout how great it was to he to win. Tlirn I'd either land or bad decisions and blow C!lRIS ARAI:

on hcing alilc to co11ti11an entire flight. It's one the things that I like bcsr about competition to 1mikc flight. If' it looks like we're not it ro I treat it like an opcn··distance day. l get high and concentrate on flying the course, not on pursuing someone.

LEE: You to have the ability not to focus 011 any one thing frir so long that you lose track of the whole. If' yon arc broad focused, and you arc doing your damnedest rn sec rlic dues that arc out there, you arc ng to do better. When you're cross·counrry flying and you're at alrinidc and there are 30 different

decisions you cm it have rhat broad really your· self to nor have a narrow focus for too long. ( )f course, we've got to have a narrow focus when we launch, when we land, and right when we c111cr a thermal. have the ability to h;1vc a narrow frJCus for launching and landing. What really diffcrcnti;1tcs top-·of..rhc--linc pilots guys who have a hard time al con·· when to switch b;1ck and 1CSIS is forth i11 forns. When entering thermal I'm thinldng rhar thermal in my mind. one. I a m1111mum more like a minwc, mapping that thermal, and then once I think I've got olll [ go back to rhc broad focus. hack at the guys behind: arc they ng up, what's on up ahead, arc there any what are the clouds doing, is there any terrain 10 mark thermals? it in with all my and each of these without saying to thar 1h1t's what's going on, I get tl1is broad scope feeling. That's whar leads me to my next decision. It isn't based on one single it's multiple things. I won't sit down them in my mind as I'm flying. distracts like cquipmcm. If you're ir away from rhat broad focus. Firsr, we have to get rid of as many of those as possible, got to be absolurcly solid with all your gear.

Cr IRIS ARAI: [/' l a thermal and I don't know where I'm then I know that I'm good. l l1ad to think distracted or not abom the rhcrmals a lot today. I couldn't concentrate. IJ'F: There's a bunch of guys thar are good at 11p from very low, and land· docrn't happen to them all that often. I don't think ir's so much flying skill as ani · tmlc and forns. Whether you're thinking about what you're doing or ;1hout the guys om above you.

C111us ARAI: Over the years I have developed a sense or how the air feels near a rhcrmal, which is one of those things that you can't explain. I begin to get a grasp of the tcxrmc of the and ir increases my odds of maka low save. I .ots of rimes when I'm flying around, I'll just feel the texture and respond; and it's

worked so many times. You get certain kinds of pitching and rolling movcmcms that arc quite characteristic of rhcrm,ils. These things help you make a decision about whether you should lly a linlc funhcr or make a tllrn. If I'm to go (;1st and I have plcm y of" alritudc I won't roll imo all rhosc little ti because they just slow you down. They don't always work. I go for the Lind· m,1rks and hope I hit a big screamer rhat doesn't require a sophisticated search and foci technique. JIM LEE: The ;1ctual piloting of the

glider has little to do with how skilled you arc at cross-coumry Your thinking makes the diffrrcncc. I gliding is almost entirely a mental activity. Ir's ;1 good thing that I go in rhc off.season to back in sh;1pc afrcr a season of flying. · I brought my bike here. I can be just having the most fantastic time ever hang gliding, just working my b1111 off trying to figure out where I'm going to go and all of a sudden I look ;1round and there arc two guys to my side in 1hesc marvelous flying machines and you're booking along at cloud b1se out in the middle of nowlicrc and i-lANC Ci IDINC

oppo1mc of wha1 we arc we're well, because there you'd end up wirh this narrow focus, "Herc l am heating the pants off these guys." li's Having that thought a period of' time, and for me to sec. endless data we have to do. l look for ;1 tracrnr, ;1 foc1ory, wind 011 the water, the best rourc to take, where the most the IS.

IRIS ARAI: It's

how upsetting iris

to nor know where the goal is, within a few

hundred when you're several miles out. [t's hecmsc the ground looks so much differem from rhc air. It is tough for rhc first to For the tenth guy it's a piece of

I for a few insrnnrs there 1he Jc.:eling is b:1ck. That's number one. If not having a do11't h:1vc a prayer. against liO m l 00 01h · er guys wl10 arc to do rhar same thing l'm to do. Sometimes they're righr and I'm wrong. [ love flying with a bunch of great people ar cloud base. I've gotlen to the sad state where if' I'm just recreational flying :md there is nobody else around, rhe weather is mediocre and I've already put in a thousand hours at that par· ticular location, then I'm bored. /\frer half :111 hour it's time to go land.

the tarp stan. It puts the guy om ahead of'you. 'fo who is winning the win the go1 ro get Lo goal Jirst. It The ability to stay in the get ahead and win the ey,-11·111<r part of competition

angry when they fly, pilots reduced that to an ahsolmc mi11im11m. You can deduce what most of the top pilots arc thinking when arc flying whar type of thinking is die most successful type. I ,EE:

thing as a boring compc1ition flight; hasn't happened. A guy asked me how can [ compete so much my rccrh and docsn'r it get ro me, up rhc compcti1ion, duking i1 0111? I le was rhinking we're rnnning into each other, intentional midairs, mt .. ting people off in 1herrnals. That :1uitudc is probably quite prevalent among rhe recrc· a1ional pilots.

I.EE: l'm not

that l do my not ro pm in situations where [ am scared. I'm good al avoiding that situation. The tirncs I'm scared arc !mt they do happcn. There arc rimes when a little bit of Fear enters the pict11rc, when ng slapped rurlmlcncc and 1hc grip a little bit more on rhc control b;ir. I'll swap off my grip grip like a madman with one hit norhing is pulling arm, rhinking, "If J then when it's 1ircd I'll me off this arm," hang on righr with the other arm. ! won't just fly for 15 minmcs totally gripped.

Crnus ARAI: You win a compcuuon Ci IRIS ARAI: I like hopping too, but I was beginning to 1hat I wasn't making my own decisions, j11st taking the obvious markers and for ir. The tarp start makes a real race 011t of it. It forces you to make your own decisions. You've gm to balance pushing it and makit. You can push it all rhc way to the deck. There were a number of days in rhc Owens ( l 992 Worlds) when l w;1s in the lead way 0111 in from. We just hir slow condltl(lllS and everybody caught up.

Cr nus ARAI: I have the same problem. lf l'rn al least a cross c01mtry flight, I get fast. LFE: 'There's no

So many rhc top compciit ion similar in mture, Pendry the example of :1 quiet thinker type. I've talked to Judy I.eden and other pilots who have flown a lot with him and have no notion of what makes rhe Robby Whitehall is very when he's in 1hc air. The /\11str:1lia11s arc dcfini1cly party animals 011 rhc ground, hut none of them arc real excitable. They arc bid back p:irty ani· mals. you want to take his pulse ro sec if he's srill :1livc.

Cl IRIS ARAI: So 1mny of rhc really good pilots arc pretty q11ie1, calm individ11als. They arcn'1 extremely mngoing or excitable. Robby Whitehall is the exception.

knowing when to take a thermal and how high 10 take it. You can lose so much rime thermaling in a weak rhcrm,11. There is only so nmch you can do to fly fast. You ca11 only change yom speed from 25 10 30 or 35 to 40. It's only 20 or 30 per.. ce11t, while on a given day you can lie in lifr at 200 fjJm or 1,000 fim1, ;1 foctor or Jive. You can spend a 101 time poorly ccnlcr.. ing rhcrmals and then milking them for every last bir of altitude. /\i Sandia guys were going up to 20,000' because 1hcy thought it was kind oC neat (when the window was ope11 that high), while the guys who were winning the meet were at 17,000'. llow much dilTcrcuce docs it rnakc 10 leave the thermal at the right time? If ir's strong and you know you cm get to the next thermal no matter when you leave this one, then ir's nol much of a decision; when ir gets weak, you go. On a day like today, you couldn't do that, you needed every hir 0L1ltitude you co11lcl get just 10 make it to rhc next thermal. You have to learn to judge the day as to what you can get away wid1. The rrick is judging the probability of get ting the next thermal. IC it looks prob .. able, and it gets slow, get our of there.

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Accident Reports by Doug Hildreth EVENT xperienced, advanced pilot borrowed a glider. Pilot hooked into the glider and did a hang check. Good launch into steady winds, but after flying out, the main suspension scrap failed and the pilot was hanging on the backup only The pilor was hanging low since the backup loop was eight inches longer than the primary. In addition, the fall and subsequent jerk as the primary failed caused the backup loop to move down the keel, changing the hang point. The pilot was able to climb into the control bar and fly the glider to a water landing near the beach below.

COMMENT The primary hang strap ,vas on a glider char had been produced in the fall of 1992. The cause of the failure is unknovm. Most gliders come with a factory backup that is only an inch or two (or three) longer than the primary. But most backup loops are "attached" to a slighcly different hang point (a bit further forward or a bit further back). When the hang point is through the kingposc, the backup is on the keel. The number of primary hang loop failures has been very low. Bur ic does occasionally happen. Also, we are seeing more "improper hook-ins," in which the carabiner is only partially hooked into the primary and then falls our. In both cases the pilot ends up hanging from the backup. Even though it's rare, if we are going to have a backup, it had better work. Some may argue rhac rhe backup is only intended for situations in which the glider breaks. The backup is to ensure chat the pilot stays attached to the glider. So the question remains, "Will my glider fly, will I be able to control and land my glider, ifl am hooked into the backup hang loop only?" I am pretty sure that the manufacturers have tried this. Ar least I hope so. I assume

May 1993

that the current stock backup hang loops are shore enough and close enough to the normal hang point so chat the glider can be flown when hanging from it. Bue I've never cried it. I'm nor sure chis is something we should practice. How about input from the manufacturers? I've seen a lot of pilots who hang low, close to rhe bar, and who would be scraping it when hanging from the backup. Of course they could go partially upright. I've also seen a lot of gliders chat I am sure would not be flyable or landable in this situation (those on which pilots have installed their own backup loops).

turbulence, both in regard to powered aircraft and to other hang gliders. It has been assumed char everyone knows all about it now, and so it is not mentioned in the magaz111e anymore. Get out Pagen's or Cheney's book and review those drawings chat illustrate how it works. Although the turbulence is supposed to slowly sink behind the aircraft, what happens if ridge life is lifting it? Sure, you can handle it if you're high and the lift is smooth. Bue watch out for those marginal situations in which one more patches of turbulence may mean loss of control for long enough to cause big ~ problems. ~

SUGGESTIONS Carry a variety of hang straps, both for the primary and secondary, if you fly or intend co fly borrowed gliders, particularly if your harness strap length is "non-standard" and requires you to modify the stock glider primary hang strap to fly it, or if you like to demo different manufacturers' gliders with different length stock hang loops.

ASK THE HGMA TO CONSIDER A "STANDARD" BACKUP Make sure that the backup, like the primary, is secured well enough to the keel so that chat any jerk, weightlessness, tumble or other gyration won't move either loop from its desired and proper position.

EVENT Pilot was soaring a coastal dune sire with another pilot and got "waked" as he followed closely behind, resulting in a crash into the dune.

COMMENT This pilot did !mow about wake turbulence bur it caught him by surprise, and because of the small margin of error he left himsel( he suffered the consequences. \Ve used to ,vrire fairly often about wake

USHGA Accident Report Follow-up by Bill Bryden

here has been reference to a towing accident in recent issues ojHang Gliding and I haue heard discussion about it in uario11splam~ ii/eluding the recent Board o/Directors meeting. Discussions ahout this euent have tried to identifj, lessons to be leamed or wa)'S in which we can improue the safety ofour jport. Howeuo; nza11J' ofthese discussions have been without benefit ofall the facts. This leads to erroneous assumptions and possibly wrong conclusions. In discussing this with Doug Hildreth, Gil Dodgen and a few pilots who knew Ron Smith, the uictim, it was decided that the whole stmy needed to be told. To that end, we are publishing the accident investigation report and comments exr1ct61 as I submitted them last Octobe1: I believe it is se!/explanato1y I want it u!lderstood thrlt this report is not intended to place any blame or suggest ail)' particular wrongdoing on the part ofall)' of the individuals involved, nor should it be interpreted that wa)( W/e need to be sensitive to all involver.I, and he certain not to add any imu!t to the inj111J' that has alrear61 resulted

r4l Accident Reports from this tragedy It is being published so you rnay understand what happened, so you may see any parallels with your own towing operations, and so you may hopefitl!y alteryour procedures ifneeded to improve your safety. Ron would have wanted that. A briefexplanation as to why the towing was being conducted the way it was: The goal was to make a lot oflaunches and landings without getting ve1y high, in order to practice these skills. Basically, the towing in this case was being used to create a 100-foot training hill. Date: Site: Pilot: Age: Address: Rating: Glider: Harness: Parachute: Helmet: Injuries:

9/10/92 about 7:00 PM Rural location near Akin, IL Ron Smith 55 West Frankfort, IL Advanced, Basic Instructor Enterprise Wings Foil Spaghetti-style Yes, but no deployment attempt Yes, BMX bicycle-type, fullface coverage Fatal

SUMMARY OF EVENTS The accident occurred in the evening just prior to sunset, and wind conditions were reported as calm to one mph with no significant gust factor. Ron had helped a student take six training tow flights prior to his taking a flight and there were no problems during any of these. The location was a flat, open field at least 1/4 mile long with about a 100-foot-wide strip mowed down the middle of the taller grass. The tow vehicle was a pickup truck equipped with a payout winch mounted in the middle of the bed. The winch operator would sit forward of the winch between it and the back of the cab and could communicate to the driver through the open sliding back window. The winch operator had operated the winch hundreds of times and was very familiar with its operation and the towing procedure. The truck driver similarly had driven the truck many times and was quite familiar ,vith the towing operation. The launch method was not platform 42

type, but rather employed a ground launch vehicle (GLV) Ron also used for his Dragonfly aerotug. The glider was positioned on the GLV and launched exactly as if an aerotug were performing the towing. The tow vehicle was positioned about 200 feet down the field from the glider and the appropriate brake pressure was then set. The vehicle would accelerate, pulling the glider and GLV, and once the glider was airborne the tow would continue as a typical "truck cow." The tow bridle on the glider was also similar to those typically used with aerotowing. It consisted of a line attached to the keel in front of the hang point which extended forward and was routed through a ring attached to the end of the tow rope. It was then directed back toward the pilot where it was tied to a weak link which in turn was captured by the first string of the release mechanism. The release was a twostring type release positioned several feet in front of the pilot and attached to a short line fastened to each shoulder strap on the harness. It is believed that Ron's usual aerotow weak link of 140 pounds was being used. The flight plan for this flight as well as the six previous training flights, and on prior occasions, was for the truck to drive to a predetermined point, pull to the side and stop. The pilot would reach approximately 100 feet of altitude, then release and promptly land in the direction of tow further down the field. On Ron's ill-fated flight the launch commenced with no problem, and the truck drove to the stop point and turned right about 90° and off the mowed tow strip. However, there was a malfunction with the release mechanism and Ron was unable to release the tow rope. As he flew past the truck at about 100 feet of altitude, he signaled to the winch operator to drop the drag brake pressure which was promptly done. Ron continued past the truck and was still at an estimated 40-50 feet of altitude when he reached the encl of the tow rope. It was observed that the glider suddenly pitched down severely and very quickly nosed into the ground with a very intense impact. Witnesses believe that Ron managed to grab the release and was in the process of manually clearing the malfunction when the tow rope went

tight, and he may have only had one hand on the control bar at that time. When assistance reached Ron moments later, it was noted that the release and tow line where disconnected, separated a couple of feet with the weak link intact. It is concluded that even with the winch brake released, some rope tension was able to develop since the rope exited the drum at about a 35-40 degree angle, and then wrapped partly around a glider rack support at the left rear corner of the truck. The tow bridle, attached at the keel and shoulder straps, would have consequently been pulled down and around the control bar and then back to the tow rope. As some tension developed, the control bar was pulled back quite far and quickly causing the glider to dive. The forces required for this would have been low, and even a very low breaking point on the weak link most likely would not have prevented the dive. It should also be noted that Ron's usual procedure included mounting a hook knife at the winch when towing, but it had been stolen several weeks earlier and not yet replaced. In addition, Ron normally flew with a second hook knife sewn on his harness, but he had elected to use his spaghetti harness for this flight which didn't have a knife. An ambulance was summoned within about five minutes of the accident at 7: 19 PM and arrived on the scene at 7:36 PM according co Franklin County Ambulance dispatch records. Another 10-15 minutes was required co get him prepared for transport, anti-shock trousers applied and IV's started. Wisely, a second ambulance stood by on the adjoining road in case the first become stuck while in the field. He was transported about 15 miles co the small local hospital. Doctors there requested a helicopter co transport him to a trauma center in St. Louis but Ron passed away just prior to being moved to tl1e helicopter. Follow-up analysis and testing of the release mechanism utilized on this flight suggest two possible explanations for the release failure. The release mechanism, shown in the attached illustration, was constructed of polypropylene webbing with a 3.5-inch-long piece of vinyl fabric sewn to the webbing to form a tube that would hold the pin. One end of the pin HANG GLIDING

Accident Reports had a loop to which was attached a trip string consisting of four-millimeter nylon parachute shroud line. The other end of the pin was readily exposed after it was inserted through the loop of the number two sering, and the trip line could potentially get hooked over chis end of che pin. Pulling the trip line would then tend to cause the pin to be further engaged into the number two string loop instead of being pulled free. A fairly fresh tear about one inch in length in the fabric holding the pin V'las noted. If chis failure mode occurred and the trip line was pulled very aggressively, ir is conceivable chat the pin could have been pulled forward hard enough to produce chis tear. Of course a host of other possible causes for the tear exist. The second possible failure mode was confirmed through load testing. After having been loaded to 100 pounds, this release required an average load of 36 pounds to cause it to separate after the pin had been pulled free. This was observed on six consecutive tests with the data having a standard deviation of2.7 pounds. Given chat the release was at one end of the bridle line and the other was attached co the keel, a cmv line tension of about 70 pounds or so (two times the separating force of the release) would have been required co separate the release after a 200-pound cow force. Seventy pounds would have been more than enough force to "scuff" the control bar causing the glider to dive.

COMMENTS ABOUT THE ACCIDENT Ron had a sincere interest in promoting safe flight and it was chis attitude chat made this event so surprising. It also dictates an obligation on our part co learn from chis and share chat new knowledge co avoid a repeat occurrence. We owe it co Ron. We owe it to the sport. These comments should not be construed as criticisms of Ron or anyone else. In fact, some of these things have been seen before but we have failed to inregraced them into our thinking or understand their extreme consequences. 1) Eme1genC)' medical response: We all know the importance of good trauma care

May 1993

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within the "Golden Hour" after significant injury, but many of us don't have a plan to respond efficiently. So, !mow where and how you will summon emergency assistance at all flying sites. Have accurate city/county road names and numbers so you don't need instructions referencing barns or rusted tractors. Especially in remote rural locations, have the latitude and longitude coordinates for your sites as well. Should a severe accident occur, chis information can be relayed co a helicopter ambulance pilot who can then enter it into his Loran or GPS navigation system and fly direccly co your location. This information can be found on aeronautic sectional charts or on U.S. Geological Survey topographical maps. Also check with the local emergency medical services so that you understand the procedure required co dispatch a helicopter; it's often not as simple as saying, "Send a helicopter!" 2) Hook knife: We've heard this before, and now the importance should be understood. Have one at the tow vehicle and fly with one in easy reach. \)?hen learning to fly did you execute a perfect launch the first time? Probably not; it took practice co get it right. Are you likely co get it right the first time using a knife or deploying a parachute in a panic situation? Hang in a simulator and practice cutting an old line; it's not as easy as you might chink. This should become a standard part of cowing instruction. 3) Eme1gency procedure: What are the best actions to cake if the release fails to

0.:.1'

separate while in flight? Develop procedures APPROPRIATE FOR EACH OF YOUR PARTICULAR :\,fETHODS OF TO\v1NG and practice these ahead of time. For example: it has been suggested chat if a release fails, the pilot should overfly the tow vehicle at a high airspeed, and when he gees to the end of the rope, break the weak link. Obviously, chis procedure is highly dangerous if you are using a tow bridle system chat attaches to the keel or is routed over the control bar (common with foot launch cowing and aerotowing), and is probably ill-advised for other setups such as chose in which the tmv rope has significant stretch, since this would absorb the shock and reduce the likelihood of the weak link breaking. These procedures should be discussed with all pilots new to your towing community, and periodically within your regular group for memory review and potential revision. 4) Good quality release mechanism: This seems obvious, but what is a good release that performs reliably? There are HGMA standards for testing a hang glider to assess its stability and structural integrity. Similarly, there is a need for performance standards against which releases can be tested. I will soon be publishing recommendations which have been endorsed by the USHGA towing committee.

Contact: Bill Biyden, Examined1ow Supervis01; 1924 W High!ancl, Columbus, IN 47201 (812)372-4101. -Ed 43

1993 USHGA MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM QI'{ PRICE OTHER USHGA CALENDARS SPECIFY YEAR: 1991 1990 1989 1988 Excellent Photography-collect them all!, ............ ,@ $1.50 USHGA "TAOS" T-SHIRTS 100% cotton, oversized, fine-lined weathered look. COLORS: Ash Wine Blue SIZES: Med. Large XL ........................ ,....................... """""""'"" ..........................................$17.95 USHGA "OATMEAL" LONG SLEEVE 100% cotton. Natural color with fine-lined navy stripes and 3" screened logo. Available in MOCK NECK or HOODED SIZES: Med. Large XL. ............................................... , ................... , .............. $19.95 COLLEGIATE SWEATSHIRT Super heavyweight 11 oz. fleece - 95% cotton, cross-weave w/ side gusset, 3 colors on ash. SPECIFY SIZE: MEDIUM LARGE XL reg. $39.95 ....................... , ...... """"""""""". ................ .. ....... $34.95 COLLEGIATE SWEATPANTS Side pockets, 50/50, elastic waistband wl drawstring. Sizes: Med. Large XL ................. """""""" .... $29.95 COLLEGIATE T-SHIRT ASH, 100% cotton, puffed lettering. Sizes: Med. Large XL .................... """"""""""" ..................... .... $13.95 COLLEGIATE SHORTS ASH, side pockets. Sizes: Small Med. Large XL........ . ..............................................................$18.95 "FREESTYLE" SWEATSHIRT 9 oz. set-in fleece - 50/50 heavyweight, beautiful multi-color design on white SPECIFY SIZE: MEDIUM LARGE EXTRA-LARGE ............. """"""""'""" ................................ , ..................................$24.95 ALSO FREESTYLE T-SHIRT 100% preshrunk cotton Med. Large XL .................. , .................................... , ...................... $14.95 "LOOP" SWEATSHIRT 9 oz. set-in fleece - 50/50 heavyweight, red and white on navy SPECIFY SIZE: MEDIUM LARGE EXTRA-LARGE ......... , ............................................. , ........... , .. """"""" ........................... $19.95 USHGA Golf Shirt 100% combed cotton. Colorlully embroidered. Colors: White Red Navy Yellow Jade Black SIZES: Medium Large X-Large XXL (in white, navy & jade only) ...................................... """" .....................................$22.95 USHGA LONG SLEEVE TSHIRT 100% Cotton "Simplistic" Design SPECIFY COLOR: WHITE or GRAY & SIZE S M L XL ................ $18.95 USHGA MTN. GLIDER TSHIRT 100% cotton. Our most popular shirt. SPECIFY SIZE: M L XL COLOR white ash ............... $12.95 USHGA YOUTH MTN. GLIDER TSHIRT For those up and coming pilots. SPECIFY SIZE: 8(6-8) M (10-12) L(14-16) ...................... $9.95 USHGA MTN. GLIDER CAP Embroidered SPECIFY COLOR: NAVY WHITE PURPLE RED .......................... , ... """'""""" .. $9.95

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"NEW" Hang Gliding magazine "SPECIAL NEW PILOT EDITION" launching, landing, buying a used glider, etc... . ..... $4.50 "NEW'* Higher Than Eagles by Maralys & Chris Wills. The story of early hang gliding and Bob Wills. Hardcover ................................. $19.95 '*NEW" UNDERSTANDING THE SKY by Dennis Pagen Micrometeorology for pilots. Almost 300 pages, 260 photos & illustrations ....... $19.95 "NEW'* THE ART OF SKYSAILING by Michael Robertson. Covers material used in ICPs, including Charts of Reliability ........................ $9.95 PARAGLIDING· A PILOT'S TRAINING MANUAL Produced by Wills Wing. Everything you wanted to know about paragliding ................. $19.95 HANG GLIDING FOR BEGINNER PILOTS by Pete Cheney The Official USHGA Training Manual. Over 200 pages ............................ $29.95 PARAGLIDING FLIGHT - Walking on Air by Dennis Pagen Covering all aspects of Paragliding. Over 140 illustrations .......................... $19.95 HANG GLIDING FLYING SKILLS by Dennis Pagen Our most popular book. For the beginner to intermediate pilot. ............................. $9.95 RIGHT STUFF FOR NEW HANG GLIDER PILOTS by Erik Fair Overview, humor, techniques and personalities ......................................$8.95 FEDERAL AVIATION REGULATIONS Federal Regulations covering ALL types of aviation."""""" .............. , ............ , .......... $8.95 USHGA DELUXE LOG BOOK 72 pages. Covering pilot ID, ratings, rules, maintenance, inspection, lerminology ... and more ................... $4.95 USHGA XC LOG BOOK 64 pages. Very clean I For those who like to document their flight....... .......................... .. ..... $3.95 USHGA FLIGHT LOG BOOK 40 pages. The official USHGA flight log book .... , ......... , ................... , """ ...........................................$2.95

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Official USHGA Windsokrn Pink/yellow or pink/white .......... """""""'"" ...................................................................$39.95 USHGA DELUXE LOG BOOK COVER Gray colored and debossed with the Mtn. Glider design. Show off your flights ............................ $4.95 USHGA LAPEL PIN Beautiful multicolored Min. Glider design. Custom shaped pin w/ military clutch and epoxy dome., ......................... $4.95 USHGA MTN. GLIDER SEWON EMBLEM The most beautiful patch you'll ever own. 12 different colors used ............................ , ....... $4.95 USHGA MTN. GLIDER DECAL Full color 6" diameter vinyl decal. Guaranteed lo last! .............................................. , . """"""""" ...... $1.50 USHGA KEY CHAIN "Soft Feel" Plastic. Custom Min. Glider shaped. Screened white on red .............................................................$1.50 USHGA SEWON EMBLEM Our original logo, in its original colors on this 3" circular emblem.,.'""""""""""' .................... $1.50 USHGA EMBLEM DECAL Our original logo, in its original colors on this 3" circular sticker .....................................................................$ .50 USHGA LICENSE PLATE FRAME "I'd Rather Be Hang Gliding'' PLASTICwhite with blue lettering ............ ,................. .. ..... $5.50 METAL(zinc) with white on blue lettering ...............................$6.50 *'NEW" DAREDEVIL FLYERS Ill· THE PARAGLIDING VIDEO The Wills Wing gang paraglides at Telluride, CO (50 min.) .................. $24.95 *'NEW*' HAWAIIAN FLYIN' video. Hang gliding and paragliding in paradise! Awesome scenery! (46 min.)...... .. ................. $33.00 "NEW'* HANG GLIDING EXTREME video. Let's you see some of the most spectacular sites and introduces you to some famous pilots! (50 min.)............................ , """""""" ..................... $34.95 MAGAZINE COLLECTOR BINDER Brown vinyl binder w/ gold lettering. Wire inserts to hold 12 issues of HG. ............... $9.00 *USHGA ERIC RAYMOND POSTER 24" X 37" Eric doing oxygen al 17,000 MSL over the Sierra Nevada Range .................................$5.95 *USHGA HANG GLIDING POSTER 22" X 28" Colorful nostalgic standard Rogallo flying into the golden sunset. (Circa 1977) ........ $3.95 'Posters are NOT AVAILABLE on International OrdersSORRY!

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PAYMENT must be included with your order. FOREIGN orders must be in U.S. FUNDS drawn on a U.S. BANK

CHARGE MY CREDIT CARD VISA

or MASTERCARD (circle one)

acct#_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ exp. _ _ __ Signature _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

SHIPPING .01 - 9.99 ADD $3.50 10.00 - 19.99 ADD $4.00 20. - 34.99 ADD $5.00 35. - 49.99 ADD $6.00 50. + ADD $7.50 Canada & Mexico add $1.50 extra Jnl'I surface add $5,00 extra lnt'I air add $15.00 extra

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SUBTOTAL

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COLORADO RESIDENTS add 3% TAX SHIPPING (see chart)

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TOTAL ENCLOSED

$_ _ _ __

SHIP TO: (Street address if possible) NAME_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ USHGA#_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~ CITY/STATE/ZIP_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ UNITED STATES HANG GLIDING ASSN. P.O. BOX 8300 COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80933-8300

(719) 632-8300

FAX (719) 632-6417

UP INTERNATIONAL

UP is proud to introduce its 1993 line of state-of-the-art hang gliding equipment. All of this year's models feature a revolutionary quick setup and breakdown system utilizing a rear crossbartensioning configuration. XTCss 170/150 - The single-surface trainer I advanced fun glider, from fust flight to Master rating! The XTCss has an aluminum ai1frame and control frame. C: Q)

XTCds 170/150 - This double-surface cross-country trainer for the Beginning to Intermediate pilot is built with an aluminum airframe, an aluminum control frame and aluminum airfoil kingpost and downtubes . A folding speedbar is standard equipment. Options include Safedge airfoil downtubes, wingtip fairings or, new for 1993, wingtip fairings with vertical winglets for added yaw stability at high speeds. XTC 205 - The new "Double UP" single-surface glider offers traditional UP performance and handling while accommodating higher wing loadings. It features a carbon-fiber airframe and aluminum control frame. XTR 145 - This high-performance cross-country racer is well suited for Intermediate to Master pilots. It features an aluminum airframe, aluminum airfoil downtubes, carbon-fiber kingpost and folding speedbar. The XTR is available with or without Variable Geometry and is available with optional Safedge or carbon-fiber airfoil downtubes and tip fairings with vertical winglets. TRX 160/140 Race - The ultimate in performance, light handling, light pitch pressure and easy landing characteristics, the TRX Race is perfect for Intermediate to Master pilots. It is comprised of a lightweight carbon-fiber airframe which provides superior strength and flexibility. Standard features are aluminum airfoil downtubes, wingtip fairings and folding speedbar. Other new improvements include all-aluminum, lowflex ribs and the elimination of the VG compensator. Optional equ ipment includes Safedge airfoil downtubes, carbon-fiber airfoil downtubes, tip fairings with vertical winglets . and a large control frame for the TRX 140. Flightmate GPS - UP International has become an authorized distributor of Trimble Navigation's Flightmate, a compact navigation receiver and global positioning system. Ideal for the cross-country enthusiast, the Flightmate attaches easily to a glider control frame and utilizes a sophisticated onboard satellite-tracking computer to provide precise position and altitude data. It also reports ground speed, bearing, ETA and distance from launch

,.--.

0 0

00 '--"

II Ratings SAFE PILOT AWARDS BRONZE MARK MALLETT BILL SODERQUIST SILVER BILL RICHARDSON BILL SODERQUIST RUDY VISAYA GOLD BILL SODERQUIST

LILIENTHAL AWARDS BRONZE MELANIE MIDDLETON SILVER RICHARD MORSE GOLD STEVE ARNDT

BEGINNER RATINGS PILOT: City, State; Instructor/School Region 1 COMBS, TROY: Grants Pass, OR; R. Combs/Adventure Quest Region 2 REEVES, DREW: Jamestown, CA; K. Wright/Wright Bros Wings SULLIVAN, TODD: Auberry, CA; S. Bickford/Airtime of SF WESTBROCK, GUY: Ceres, CA; W. Brown/Top Flite HG Region 3 ANGEL, SCOTT: Santa Barbara, CA; R. Brown/Foot Launched Flight BELTRAN, GINO: Montebello, CA; A. Beem/Windsports BISBEY, CARY: Los Angeles, CA; A. Beem/Windsports CALEM, WILLIAM: San Diego, CA;]. Ryan GORDON, KEN: Redondo Beach, CA; A. Beem/Windsports ROBERTS, RICHARD: San Bernardino, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure SCHOLLENBERGER, PETE: Redlands, CA;]. Ryan/HG Center of SD TREADUP, NIKI: San Diego, CA; R. Mitchell/Eagles Wings HG Region 4 STOLPE, CHRIS: Tucson, AZ; E. Smith/Arizona Airfoils Region 6 DIXON, BOB: Havana, AR; T. Middleton/Soaring Wings-Russellville Region 8 POOLE, AMANDA: Greenwich, CT; W. Thornton/Kitty Hawk Kites

Region 9 CARDILLO, FRANK: Fairfax, VA; W. Thornton/Kitty Hawk Kites SELDON, DIANNA: Cleveland, OH; M. Delsignore/North Coast HG Region 10 KENNEDY, WILLIAM: Thomaston, GA;]. Hooks/Lookout Mtn FP Region 11 ELLEY, DAVE: Victoria, TX; J. Hooks/Lookout Mm FP RODRIGUEZ, R: Wimberley, TX; J. Hunt/Red River Aircraft

NOVICE RATINGS PILOT: City, State; Instructor/School Region 1 COMBS, TROY: Grants Pass, OR; R. Combs/Adventure Quest ERNEWEIN, MARK: Eielson AFB, AK; L. Thomas/T&L Sales & Service HAUGEN, ORV: Kennewick, WA; B. Morgan/Rattlesnake HG REILLEY, JOE: Seattle, WA; T. Johns/Cascade Soaring Region 2 ANDRESEN, NORD: Hayward, CA; G. Andronaco/Berkeley HG Club BIGBEE, ANTHONY: San Francisco, CA; P. Godwin/Western HG CONNELL, MICHAEL: San Jose, CA; D. Yount/Mission Soaring Center EATON, SHEFFIELD: Pebble Beach, CA; P. Godwin/Western HG HARRIS, DANIEL: Los Gatos, CA; R. Chin JOHNSON, PAUL: San Francisco, CA; A. Whitehill/Chandelle SF RIGGS, BRIAN: San Jose, CA; D. Yount/Mission Soaring Center STIELER, MIKIE: Sonora, CA; W. Brown/Top Flitc HG Region 3 BISBEY, CARY: Los Angeles, CA; A. Becm/Windsports CALEM, WILLIAM: San Diego, CA;]. Ryan FILSINGER, WILLIAM: Honolulu, HI; L. Akiona GORDON, KEN: Redondo Beach, CA; A. Beem/Windsporrs HAMILTON, BRONWYN: Grand Terrace, CA; M. Asher HEALY, ERNEST: Escondido, CA; R. Mitchell/Eagles Wings HG MCGIVERN, JOE: Leucadia, CA; R. Mitchell/Eagles Wings HG MONTECINO, MARCAS: Santa Barbara, CA; R. Brown/Fr Launched Flight ROBERTS, RICHARD: San Bernardino, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure SCHOLLENBERGER, PETE: Redlands, CA; J. Ryan/HG Center of SD Region 4 D'AGOSTO, ADAM: Scottsdale, AZ; B. Holmes/Sky Sails of AZ Region 9 SANKO, KEN: Colchester, CT; W. Thornron/Kitry Hawk Kites Region 10 BRACKETT, DAVID: Miami Beach, FL; A. Beem/Windsports CRAMBLIT, ERIC: Brownsboro, AL; R. Patterson/Rocket City Airsports GILES, DAVID: Huntsville, AL; R. Patterson/Rocket City Airsports INMAN, STEVE: Nashville, TN; C. Thoreson/Lookout Mtn FP WEBSTER, DAVID: Largo, FL; J. Tindle/Miami HG Region 12 CRONIN, TODD: Wayne, NJ; C. Thoreson/Lookout Mtn FP

HANG GLIDING

Ratings INTERMEDIATE RATINGS

MASTER RATINGS

C.]. STURTEVANT BUZZ CHALMERS MARK MALLETT

PILOT: City, State; Instructor/School Region 1 NYGREN, PETE: Bellingham, \'(/A; L. Space/Cloudbase Country Club Region 2 HARRIS, DANIEL: San Jose, CA; R. Palmon/Mission Soaring Center MCNEILL, JONATHAN: Davis, CA; J. Greenbaum/Ainime of SF

FOREIGN RATINGS BEGINNER ROBBINS, DEANNA: Hamilton, Ontario; K. Dinzl/Skysailing Ontario

Region 3 BAJULAZ, YVES: Solvang, CA; K. DeRussy/Hang Glider Emporium GARNET, PAUL: San Bernardino, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure

INTERMEDIATE SALLANS, DALE: Ayr, Ontario; M. Gates/OH GA/FLAP

TANDEM ONE RATINGS

Region 4 KARTCHNER, GENE: Tooele, UT; M. Knowlden/Rcbel Wings HG Region 5 WIETHORN, WILLIAM: Ketchum, ID; lvl. King Region 9 COLEivIAN, JOHN: Fairfax, VA; K. Frampton MORRISON, BEN: Ycagertown, PA; R. Cobb/Wind Drifter SOULLIARD, CHARLES: Lebanon, PA; B. Umstattd Region 10 DOW, DANA: Boaz, AL; C. Thoreson/Lookout Mm FP MIDDLETON, MELANIE: Lookout Men, GA; C. 111oreson/Lookout Mm FP

DAVIDSON,JERRY: Draper, UT; W. Henry/UP Soaring KING, TOM: Goleta, CA; G. Meadows/Pacific Airwave LEMASTER, MIKE: Salinas, CA; G. Mcadows/PacificAirwave

TANDEM TWO RATINGS GODWIN, PHILLIP: Marina, CA; G. Meadows/Pacific Aitwave HARRISON, KELLY: San Juan Cap, CA; G. Meadows/Pacific Airwave MEYERS, JEFF: San Diego, CA; G. Meadows/Pacific Airwave REEVES, GEORGE: Sunland, CA; G. Meadows/Pacific Airwave

INTRODUCING THE GREAT 1993 ADVANCED RATINGS

DIABLO PARAGLIDER

PILOT: City, State; Instructor/School

ARE YOU TIRED OF YOUR OLD GLIDER? ARE YOU TIRED OF YOUR NEW GLIDER?

Region 1 ALLEN, DENNIS: Lynnwood, WA; D. Fox/CBCC LUETH, WAYNE: Vancouver, WA; R. Gclfan

WELL TRADE UPI

Region 2 MOROZ, ULAD: Berkeley, CA; S. Seabass/Bcrkcley HG Club STALLINGS, DENNIS: Sacramento, CA; M. Lake

"'TRADE IN

Region 3 FOGLESONG, PAUL: Honolulu, HI; D. King O'SICK, WAYNE: Long Beach, CA; D. Skadal/Flight Systems

DIABLO

SPECIFICATIONS:

MODEL

Region 4 DAVIDSON, JERRY: Draper, UT; W. Henry/UP Soaring SEESE, BLAKE: Phoenix, AZ; ]. Dalen YOCUM, TOM: Snowmass, CO; J. Simmons/Ivory Eagle Soaring Region 6 BURRUS, BRUCE: Oklahoma City, OK; S. \'{lhite/White Out

TRADE VALUE

ANY 1992 MODEL ANY 1991 MODEL ANY 1990 MODEL ANY OTHER MODEL

GLIDE PILOT

RATIO WT.

PRICE *coNTACT

YOUR

l~LASS

"A")

SMALL

MEDIUM

LARGE

6.4 110-155

6.5 145-190

6.6 155-210

$2800

$2875

$2950

DEALER

OR TREKKING,USA

ALL ~ L I D E R S

$1000 $800 $600 $400

ARE GUARANTEED

FOR DETAILS

FOR 3 YRS.

TREKKING USA, LTD ACCT REP: TELE (303) 278-9566

Division

of NAS DistributinA

Inc.

May 1993

FLYTEC'S NEW RANGE OF INSTRUMENTS IS FUNCTIONAL , ERGONOMIC AND ATTRACTIVELY STYLED FAl-approved barograph (FLYEC 3030)

Extremely easy to use

A wide range of flight doto con be printed our plus on-screen data display

lnregrol. d1g1tal vorio combined with highly sensitive flight acoustics (ASI) for audible indication of the slightest thermals

Unique. analog var1orneter display (FL YTEC potent')

New method of attachment with optimum viewing angle

DATE MAX Nr. dd.mm.·1Y ALTII

MAX ALTl2

MAX VARIO

REC TIME

4 1501.92 4894 PILOT DEVICE-NUMBER BARO STARTTIMF TIMEATPRINTOUT

3693 7.7 5:31:11 · Haari Urs 584 SW-VER 29 I 4I 12:30 160192 0945

BARO

, sooc

WORLD RECORD 230km

400° JOGC

'Orv IOOO

For information and a dealer nearest you, call Flytec USA 1-800-662-2449 made i n Switzer l and

FLYTEC AG

P.O. Box 56 1732, Miami, FL 33156

LEARN TO FLY THE RIGHT WAY!

HANG GLIDING FLYING SKILLS by Dennis Pagen .•• HAS HELPED TENS OF THOUSANDS OF PILOTS REALIZE THEIR DREAM OF FLIGHT FOR OVER 15 YEARS. • USHGA officially approved training manual. eThe only training manual written by a certified instructor . • 12 large chapters detailing every phase of beginning to intermediate flight.

* *DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED**

.used in most US hang gliding schools. • Translated in six languages. • The most complete book available emphasizing safety and effective training.

DON'T LEA VE THE GROUND WITHOUT THE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERT TECHNIQUES FOUND IN HANG GLIDING FL YING SKILLS BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER BOOKS BY DENNIS PAGEN: •UNDERSTANDING THE SKY-A complete guide to sport aviation weather-$19.95 eHANG GLIDING FLYING TECHNIQUES-Detailed information for intermediate to advanced pi lots-$6.95 • PARAGLIDING FLIGHT-Learn to fly from ground zero to thermal flying-$19.95 • POWERED ULTRALIGHT FLYING-A complete guide to the sport-$11.95 ePOWERED ULT. TRAINING COURSE-20 ground schools and lessons-$9.95

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 furlher information. Dealer inquiries are invited.

RC/ 2060 A East Main Street Woodland, CA USA

95776

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

I I I I I I I I I I I

SEND CHECK OR CASH TO: SPORT AVIATION PUBLICATIONS P.O. Box 101 MINGOVILLE, PA 16856 DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED Pfease rus/1 me Urn books lis!ed below: QUANTITY Q Understanding the Sky . . , S19.95 G Hang Gliding Flying Skills... . .. S9.95 :J Hang Gliding Techniques . . ... S6.95 G Powered Ultralighl Flying . . .. S11.95 :} Powered UL Training Course ... , .. S9.95 C Paragliding Flight,,.. . . . . .. S19.95 S1ve 10% order two or more book,! Save 20%, order all alx books! Total a.mount tor all books s _ _ __ Postage and Handling $1.95 Overseas airmail if desired i$6.00Jbool<) _ _ TOTAL E N C L O S E D - - - - - -

SEND TO {Please Prinl) NAME _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

ADDRESS-------CITY,STATE - - - - - - COUNTRY/ZIP-------

ACTION VIDEOS

ONLY THE BEST 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.

I I I I I I I I I

~~~;;~ 5

HANG GLID1NG -

FLY CROSS COUNTRY, 00 BALLOON DROPS, COMPETE, PARAGLIDE, TRUCK TOW ANO HEAR FROM THE PROFESSIONALS WHO BREAK WORLD RECORDS. GO TO YOSEMITE, OWENS VALLEY, AND TORREY PINES, CALIFORNIA; LAKEVIEW, OREGON; TELLURIOE/PARIOOX, COLORADO. CLOUOBASE 3 IS INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINING FOR EVERYONE. VHS - 50 MINUTES.

SU!~IA ·Clk.Ol\Jl!JSAS~ JI -~

PUTS YOU IN THE AIR WITH LOTS OF AERIAL FOOTAGE.

• TAHOE/RENO AREA SITE GUIDE • MONTEREY STEEPLE CHASE RACE & GUIDE • TELLURIDE: HIGH ALTITUDE SITE GUIDE, AEROBATIC FESTIVAL FOR BEGINNER THROUGH EXPERT PILOTS WITH HANG GLIDING ANO SOME PARAGLADING. VHS - 90 MINS.

THERm1K - THE ART oF FLYING EUROPEAN VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS ALL ASPECTS OF HANG GLIDING ANO PARAGLIDING FLIGHT: FROM THE FIRST STEP TO PROFESSIONAL COMPETITION FLYING, AND FROM SAFETY ASPECTS TO METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS FOR PILOTS AND NON-PILOTS. VHS - 40 MINSAd f V"d SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER CLOUDBASE 3 - EXTREME 34.95 SIERRA CLOUDBASE II 29.95 THERMIK . 49.95 POSTAGE & HANDLING . . . 4.00

ven ure

Paul Hamilton

4750 Townsite Road Reno, NV 89511 USA Phone/FAX 702-849-9672

CALL OR WRITE FOR OTHER ACTION VIDEOS

E~ Classifieds HANG GLIDING ADVISORY Used hang gliders should always be disassembled before flying for the first time and inspected carefully for fatigued, bent or dented downtubes, 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 chem to inspect. Buyers should select equipment that is appropriate for their skill level or rating. New pilots should seek professional instruction from a USHGAcertified school.

COMET C-1 135 - Spectrum cloth, great condition, low time $550. (602) 893-2523. DOUBLE VISION - Beautiful colors, low hours, top condition, good price. (209) 532-1302. sizes, including ! 45's. Many other used glid available, including Visions & Spectrums. Rave¥ ' ' ores (414) 473-2003. DUCK 180 - Stored for last 5 years. Ball vario, two harnesses+ chute. $1,200 cakes all. (801) 295-7883.

ROGALLOS

ENTERPRISE FOIL COMBAT 152C - $1,700. (805) 528-4261 eves. (805) 541-1150 ext. 21 days, ask for Charlie.

ATLAS 175 - High Energy Sports harness, parachute, helmet $500 OBO. (601) 435-7827 Bill.

FOIL COMBAT 139 - Great shape, 60 hours $1,500. Joe Szalai (818) 362-9978 evenings.

ATTACK DUCK 160 - Mint, excellent condition, low low hours, <30 hours, only $600. (803) 383-4318 Rob.

FORMULA 154 - Excellent condition $2,000. Heavy 4.4 cloth throughout. Southern California (909) 787-3500 weekdays.

AXIS 15 4425.

FORMULA 154 - 4.4 T.E. Great performance and handling, $1,800. (805) 772-1441.

Good shape, only $600. Paul (909) 676-

AXIS 15 - Clean, low hours $1,200 or trade for MK IV 17. (205) 254- 3288. CG 1000 HARNESS - Excellent condition, hardly used. Water bladder, radio pocket, tall pilot $325. (310) 208-1889. COMBAT II 139 - Low hours, very clean $3,000 OBO. Sensor C, good condition, $800 OBO. (5 lO) 527-8728.

HPAT 145 - 150 hours, great shape $1,400. HP 1.5-many hours left, parked for 3 years $600. Raven 229, old but strong $300. (714) 541- 2625. HPAT 145 - April '92, 50 flights and hours, still like new, no whacks $2,600. (714) 675-5636. HPAT 158 - Like new, moving-sacrifice @$2,300. (310) 479-7771. HPAT 158 Perfect airframe, 160 hours. Pink/black/green sail. Extra dt's, new spare lower wire set $1,800. (208) 529-2106. HPAT 158 449-0513.

Great shape, low hours $2,100. (303)

HPAT 158 - Excellent condition, clean, moderate hours, threads needles $2,000. Dana (505) 849-1044. K2 145 -

10·

K2 145 - New sail $2,700. W\Y/ Z-3, 5'5" pilot $450. Ball M-22 alri/vario $400. (818) 353-1923 leave message.

AXIS 15 - 1990 model. Great condition, low hours, recent airframe inspection $1,500 OBO. (818) 3676050. AXIS 15 - Custom "Bannan" sail, custom harness, parachute, vario $1,500. (619) 490-1292.

HPAT 145 - Good condition, yl/or, never crashed $2,300. High Energy cocoon, 6'0" $125. (415) 8262887.

HARNESS-EQUALiZER - Raymond streamlined harness. New double chute container, rocket mounting attachments. Fits 5'9" to 6'2". Great shape, jusr $400. (619) 286-5604. HP II - Tight, fast, spanked all four HPAT's 1991 Great Race. White, pink LE $900. (803) 666-2494. HP II - $350. Raven 209 $200. Raven 229 $350. Harrier 177 $400. OBO's, all good condition. (415) 359-8080. HP II - New pans and sail work, handles good $500. (714) 675-5636.

K2 145 - 1991, great handling for light pilot $1,800 OBO. Call Claire Pagen (814) 383-2569. K2 155 - Excellent condition, low hours, custom sail. Proven 100-mile performer $2,300 OBO. (505) 293-5165. K2 15 5 - Flies and handles great! Looks beautiful! $2,400. (805) 772-1441. KISS - All mylar factory racer. Excellent handling and performance. Absolutely superb condition $1,800. (619) 575-4939.

r.--------------------------------------, USHGA CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ORDER FORM

I 50 cents per word, $5.00 minimum. Boldface or caps $1.00 per word. (Does not include first few words I which are automatically caps.) Special layouts or tabs $25 per column inch. I (phone numbers-2 words, P.O. Box-1 word) J

I J J J

photos-$25.00 line art logos-$15.00 Deadline-20th of the month, six weeks before the cover date of the issue in which you want your ad to appear (i.e., June 20 for the August issue). Prepayment required unless account established. No cancellations and no refunds will be allowed on any advertising after deadline. Ad insertions FAXed or made by telephone must be charged to a credit card. Please enter my classified ad as follows:

I I J

Number of Months: Section (please circle) Rogallos Emergency Chutes Parts & Accessories Business & Employment Miscellaneous

Towing Wanted Schools and Dealers Videos Ultralights Rigid Wings Publications & Organizations Paragliders

I I I I

Begin with 19 issue and run for conseculive issue(s). My check :i, money order 0, is enclosed in the amount of $ NAME:. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~

ADDRESS:

PHONE: Number of words: Number of words:

@ .50 @ 1.00 = - - - - - -

L ______________________________________ 50

USHGA, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, CO 80933 (719) 632-8300

HANG GLIDING

Classifieds KISS 154 - w/K2 upgradcs-l 989. Royal blue u/surface, excellent condition SI ,200. (6 l 9) 697-4530.

$1,575. Charles (801) 254-61/o

LITE DREA,vl 165 - Less than l hour airtime Sl,980. Pod harness $450. Parachme $200. All mim condition' Cathie (714) 536-0497, (714) 673-4963. MAGIC Ill 177 - Like new, instrnmems, harness. chme, plus many extras, asking SI ,050. Call ivlike in ivlichigan (313) 397-1351.

VISION ts,!ARK IV 17 S1 ,400. (209) 532-1302.

New rnbing, spare parts

VISION MK IV 19 - 3 DCG, rrilam LE, rainbow sail, excellenr condition $1,700. (7 04) 542-9733. SPORT IG7 USA - A steal @S700. Splir-lcg spaghcni harness, w/chutc, fits 5' I l" to 6'2", strong, comfortable, easy to launch $200. (303) 824-2454,

VISION MK JV 19 - Excellent condition. Tri-lam 3dcg, specdbar, custom colors $1,750 OBO. Mike (602) 759-42 I 7.

leave message.

WANTED i'vlAGJC IV - Low hours, cocoon harness, parachute S995. (406) 622- 5677.

(DESPERATELY

NEEDED)

SPORT I 80 Ai'v!ER!C\N - Excellent condition, only 3 hours. ,vlagcnta, white, pacific blue, with extra downrnbcs and pod harness $!,GOO. (7m) 255-1297.

Technical info) tuning tips, certification specs, manu-

SPORT 180 - Full race, perfect condition $ I ,450 OBO. (713) 688- 7653.

\\'\Y/ !44 SPECTRUrvl - New, cusrom sail. $2,800 or best offer, (619) 448-7983.

SPORT 180 - f.ull race, low airtime, white with red LE. Sl.000 OBO, (619) 792-0291.

COLORADO HANG GLIDING "Celebrating Our 20th Year of Sales and Support!"

al? for Dawn 160 Comp. Call (717) 249-6905 collect, 7-9 r:-.1 eastern or leave number.

1\,!AGIC JV 177 -

Great condition, VG, very well maimained S 1,500. (201) 839-1050.

MARK IV 17 - R;1ymo11d pod, great colors, rota! rime 3-1/2 hours. S 1,700 for both, (602) 482-3352. MOYES XS !42 - Excellent condition, light handling, extras $1,700. (310) 479-7771. MOYES XS 155 - Looks good, sweet flyin' 52,000 ORO. (303) 728- 9602.

-·1·

MOYES XS 169 od~irion $2,400. MOYES XT 165, vet}' goo :Stion $1,900. (616) 465-5859. t

MYSTIC 177 VG - \v'irh spaghetti harness, chute, vario. All for $950. Ask for Ray (909) 652- l 03 l. SENSOR'S FLY - f.astcr, higher, longer. Sensor pilots replace their previous Sensors with new Sensors. Here's your chance to fly the sexiest wing in the sky. Cheap' 5lOE loaded S2,500. 510 B/C S800 swccr. (208) 788-3891. SENSOR 51 OC: - All mylar \Xforld Team glider. Unsurpassed sink rate, excellent condition $500. (619) 575-4939. SENSOR 5 lOC - Low hours, beautiful wing, extra parts. Sacrifice $900/BO. (510) 370-0929. SENSOR 510C FR - Crispy clean, sweet handling Sl,050 BO. (510) 530-4860. SENSOR 5 lOE - I 59 full race. TOP condition, LOW hours, immaculate Bob Schutte sail, plus extras $3,000 OBO. (209) 523-6089. SENSOR 51 OE (501) 967-8813.

TRX 140 - Purple and white beauty. Exrra carbon downwbe, Hall wheels, XC bag $2,950. \Y/\Y/ Z3 medium harness with chute $450. PZ vario $100. New composite oxygen system $400. Package $3,5 I 0. (909) 797-5515.

~~-R/V

RFCION IV'S OLDEST, rULL-TIME STOR/

RESERVES (All Brands). never l€ployerl, inspected, repacked win w bridle and ba ..... $265 (PDA's 5300) VARJOS....... sed,All B· nds)... . .. S125+ USED HARNES TS.. .. ...... S75+ .. .. S500+ ,LIDERS.. II Brands, Styles) .... $50+

TRX !GO's - One new $2,900. One-25 hours $2,500. (503) 256-0996 or 1-800-635-2247.

NEW SPO! - EURO 16 .... $2,350 LTDRE ,,!220...... ?HOURS S2,IOO I I DR AM 145. . .<~1lOURS .... $1,800 RH; IYSTIC I 77 VG . <40 ~OURS S950 HA !ER 147 .. . ... <3'i H;RS ... 5850 DU K 160 ... .<35 1-!0, RS .... $575 V!SIO}.fl7. . .. .. <100 HO '~S ... $550 PRODAWN, PROSTAR .. <25 HOUR~\·S475 Ei\. PHOENIX 6D 185 ........... <45 HOURS ..... $400 Equipment 100% Guaranteed, inspected. All Major Credit Cards Accepted. (303) 278-9566.

UP GZ - Like new, under 50 hours $875. Comet $350. (208) 522-7796.

l 103 \Xlashingto Avcn~coklden, CO 80401

TRX 140 - New condition S2,900. UP harness $500. (805)388-5913. TRX 160 - Pristine ship. Feb. '93 centerspread picrnre. Lots of extras, I- l /2 seasons old. Sacrifice 52,400. Call Jersey, (619) 944-3462 Southern California.

': .'OLDEN \VJNGS TOLL FREE ORD

USED GLIDERS - Vision 18, great shape, inspected $900. \'(I\'(/ Anack Duck I GO, cxcellem condition $800. \Y/\Y/ Harrier 177 $700. Comet 135 $600. (703) 533-1965. VISION MARK IV 17 - Excellent condition Sl,200. GTR 162 \Y/orld Beater $950. (619) 9354688.

rr;r.

E I-800-677-4449 71 or/(303 ~~--7181

Mystic 177 VG ... Ex .... , ,.... $1,300 d ........\:$1,800 Vision 19 (used) ... Ex Several Sport 167 ... .. ...........~1800.- $2,200 HP AT ... Demo ..... .. ........... S 800 Many other goodf ed gliders .......... $4) -$ l 000

All white, mylar LE, $2,800 firm.

SOUTHERN 6i\uFo;,N'r'A USED GLIDER REFERRAL - !lU.¥'.'.'SELL-CONSIGN, ALL MAKES, Mooi;:~KcALL TODAY (619) 4501894 OR (6l9Y450-90d . ta_.

SPECTRUMS IS!ONS - Bought-Sold-Traded. Raven Sky Spr5 ('114) 473-2003. SPORT 167 AMERICAN - $1,000., 80 hours, never crashed, new wires. Call Chris (307) 733-0991. SPORT 167 EURO (707) 443-2018.

May 1993

SUNBURST HPAT 145 - Brand new, never flown. Paid $4000, asking $3,000. Call Brant Swigart (808) 941-8420.

Good condition $900. Leon

VISION MK IV - Excellent condition, $2,200. Avsac harness, $400. Vario, $400. Parachute, $300. Helmer, SI 00. (510) 247-9278, (216) 650-4501. VISION ,vfK IV 17 - Excellem condition. Pac blue rri-lam LE, magema/white, comfort bar $1,800. (806) 655-7694 VISION MK IV 17 - 30 hours, excellent condition $1,600. (310) 837- 8567.

Your ad is read by more than 10,000 hang gliding enthusiasts. Advertise with us today.

VISION l'vlK IV 17 - Super colors, exccllem condition, many extras, will deliver in Florida and Georgia SI ,900. (407) 586-2087.

~~ Classifieds USED HANG GLIDERS AND PARAGLIDERS AXIS 15 ...................John Heiney's ...... $900 COMBAT II I '> ................................. 1,800 WW SPORT 1 7 .... LOW AIRTIME .$1,500 HPII ................................................... $1,200 UP C-1 185 ............ LOW AIRTI E .. $800 MAGIC IV 177 ................................. $750 UP C-11 135 ...................................... $550 PRO DAWN 155 ............................. $500 CORVETTE 25 ...... Like w ............. $1,200 STELLAR 22-25 ................................ $1,500-1,900 KATANA 22-25-27 .......................... $ J,500-1,900 UP EZ 19-22 ..................................... $1,000- l,200 raper UT (801) 576-6460 for all of •our new and , sed equipment needs, 830-600 dai y. (NOTE we're urrently purchasing ,,sed equip, em.)

COLORADO PARAGLIDING - SINCE 1986 Region's Oldest, Largest Store NEW 20 ft. PDA RESERVES ................... $365 VARIO'S ... (Used, Demo's All Brands) ...... $95+ USED HARNESSH~·: ................................ $10p+ NEW HELt:AETS ... ( II Brands, Styles)..... + NEW DIABLO'S.......... r. Guar tee .... $2,950 Ea. NE\XI APOLLO'S .................................. $2,150 Ea. NEW lvlALIBU 23 ....... 6.4 ,de ............... $1,600 NEW MITSURGY 25.. .2 ..................... $1,500 '92 CORVETTES ....... DEMO 6.6 ........ $1,600 APOLLO 27 ........ <30 hrs .......... $1,500 BIRDY 29 .................... <20 hrs 6. .. ........ $1,400 JAGUAR 27 .................. <2 hrs 5.8 ... \ ..... $1,400 MUSTANG 27 ............. <40 hrs 6.5 ..... , ... $1,375 1 SPOUTNJK 26 ............. <30 hrs 6.4 .......... $1,300 CONDOR 26 ............... <25 hrs 5.8 .......... $600 Equipment 100% Guaranteed, inspected. All Major Credit Cards Accepted. (303) 278-9566.

... . 1

WANTED sed in-fli t Mountain High oxygen sysrem. Call (619) 286-5604. SCHOOLS & DEALERS ALABAMA

ad under Georgia 6

. 'AIN FLIGHT PARK ~688- LMFP.

See

ROCKET CITY AIRSPORTS - Instruction, sales & service at Keel Mm., Gurley, AL For information send SASE and $1 to 106 Sourh Side Square, Huntsville AL 35801 or call (205) 776-9995 or (205) 880- 8512. ARIZONA

EMERGENCY PARACHUTES REAL ESTATE A BEST BUY! -~,'265, ne' r deployed, new bridle,

bag (PDA's $300). nsp ted and repacked, all sizes. Fully Guaranteed! C rado Hang Gliding (303) 2789566. ALL BRANDS - Bough, sold1,,;H'f'ii repacked. Inspection and rep k $25.0g.....,,-Parachutes, bridles, inspected and replace Al :'fJME OF SAN FRANCISCO, 3620 Wawo, (415) SKY- 1177. 18 Gore PDA, right side mount. Never been installed. (808) 638-5543.

LAKEVIEW OREGON - Land for sale, 6 miles north of town on county road. Ten acres, beautiful views $12,500. Twenty acres, 360 beautiful view, w/possiblc hg training hill $24,500. (503) 947-2261 or (503) 947-5089.

DUSTER SAILPLANE - 30:1, w/covered trailer. All instruments, licensed and flying $4,500. (916) 542-3833.

ARKANSAS

ULTRALIGHTS

SAIL WING

SECOND CHANTZ POCKET ROCKET PARACHUTE - Wing mount Wedgepak, 24 gore PDA paraswivel. Ideal for tandem glider $800. (619) 9354963 eves.

COSMOS TRIKE - Ballistic chute, custom trailer, tow gear $5,000 OBO. (513) 553-6299 Cincinnati.

PARAGLIDERS

TRIKES TRIKES TRIKES - And accessories. $5.00 info' pack, Jefferson Aero Sports, 15120 Skelton Rd, Jefferson OR 97352, (503) 327-1730.

EDEL AERO 27 - Excellent condition $1,200. $1,300 with harness. (619) 575-4939. '90 PERFORMANCE DESIGNS EXCALIBUR 270SS - Yellow, orange, red. Excellent condition $900 OBO. Bruce (602) 443-0525. 1,700. (805) 388-

Southern Californ·· WILLS - Medium harness $150. Second Chantz 275PG $450. Combo $540. (909) 797-5515.

Sell your unused equipment here.

RIGID WINGS

ERS -

USHGA Certified Larkspur,

CALIFORNIA

WAC TRIKE~ Low time, 277 Rotax, Vision Eclipse 19, $1,950. Will separate (716) 937-7119. WANTED ~ALENDAR PHOTOS~ For the 1994 USHGA :Calendar. Give us your best shot! Send to USHGA Calendar, PO Box 8300, Colorado Springs CO 80933. GLIDERS/HARNESSES/CHUTES WANTED In very good condition, all types. (602) 897-7121. HAVE CASH - \Xlant beginner-intermediate glider. Call Eric McNett (315) 492-1020. WANTED (DESPERATELY NEEDED) Technical info, tuning tips.certification specs, manual? for Dawn 160 Comp. Call (717) 249-6905 collect, 7-9 i'~I eastern or leave number. WANTED-JULY 1977 ISSUE HANG GLIDING - Magazine. SELLING-One new and two used helmets cheap! (209) 252-1138.

HANG GLIDING

Classifieds TOP FLITE HAN~UDINSJ - USHGA certified ins,rucrion. Hang gij,_ds><& supplies. Servicing Merced, tv[odesto & areas. (209) 874- 1795.

7l(tb)

FLORIDA LOOKOUT iv! training center ro

FLIGHT SYST MS - Ne\\ locario, . Dealer for rhe BIG THREE, W .LS \VING, PAY FIC A!R\X'AVE and 1v[OYES. All k, Q,: of acceyforics. [ understand rhe ex is ring pilots nccd'tp ge( a sweet deal! I need trade-ins. Call me last.", ear a bug." DAN SKADAL@ FLIGHT SY El\l'S,.,_1915B E. Karella, Orange CA 92667. 714 new)639-7N,Z,

TORREY FLIC!--i'l~PARK, !J1C. -At the launch of rhe world famoh&,,_Torrey,,P:fi,cs Glider Port, one of San Diego's highligh s1 Vnnurched convenience tor pilors and spectators. !zeshments and souvenirs at the Cliffl1anger Cafe Cercit1° Training program foacuring tandem soar· ng lessons. ~ lcw, used, rental and

demo eguipme1 bl' Delta \Vii\ and UP. 2800 Torre\' Pines Sc 1ic Dril'e, La Jolla, \:A 92037 (6 l 9) 452-3202. TRUE F .IGHT CONCEPTS -

LJ.SHGA Certified

Instruction, 'ales & Service. ~ £ c a berrer pilot in less rime with m - nail pc;s@alized classes & tandem

instruction. Our~ <~tructor has over 13 years tcachmg exper19,ce Onlvin~tes horn Olli local K,1gcl i\lo:;JJ:nlll fl1'111g site. l J l ir:l Jadsrone Ave, Sdm.ir,_,0\ 9U42 (818) 36 7 -6050

equipmenr.

56l-l009.

WINDSPORTS - L\'s lar• est since 1974. fifteen minmes fro~1 LAX. Cent ,1! to S,,lmar, Crestline, Elsinore and ·aining sir . Vacation training. flving and glider sale acl- gcs including lodging and rcmals. The most p ular gliders and equipment, new and used in stock/ ra in your old equipment. 325 sunn\' davs cap{; year. fly with us! 16145 Vicron;_ Blvd/Van Nu",s \ 91406. (818) 9880111, I .ix (8T81 988-186_.

~~="~-- ~-~--::-------

11rn@i.tt!D J;]r~{t,'Jtl .flil,J~O~J- \VE CAN TEA H YOU ASTER AND SAFER, MIAMI HANG , LI INC. has rhe most advanced training p~(ram known to hang gliding roday. USHGA cert' 1c school specializing in personalized flight rrai, 'ng. hl,!. serl'ice shop l:andling all makes and mo~ s of glider":or more into call (305) 285-8978. ,!--

.(Ne,

SKY HOOK TO\VING - Tandem instruction. BOAT & AERO TO\VING. Near ,111 Florida major attractions. Co111e spend your vacation with us and learn ro fly on the beautiful space coasr. Dealers for

Pacific Airwave, UP, High Energy, BRS, Second Chanez. Tow bridles, floars, serl'icc. PO Box 540562, Merrirr Island FL 32954. (407) 452-8143. GEORGIA LOOKOUT i\,IOU:HAIN FLIGHT l'ARK -

WRIGHT BROTHERS WINGS - UP, \'?ills Wing, Ball, BRS, High Energy. USHGA Certified Instruction. (209) 586-6012 Sonora CA. COLORADO

A1nerica's #1 hang gliding ccn;;,l<hying sire. Find our

wh>' three ri!11es as many _8·Vocs earn their rnounrain

wings ar Lool-2 1t! Campi re certified rraining-"bunny hill" ro mount. in s9 ring. \Ve wrote USHGA's Official Flight Tra. ,·n'g Manual' Our specialties: fooclaunch, randc1n · l{i aerotowing instruction, first

. - Hang gliding, paragliding school. Equipmcn sales, service, renrals ar Southern California's z?l<' igh site, Crestline. USHGA lnsrrucror Roh Jv[c By appointment year round. (909) 883-8488. \ LAKE ELSINORE HANG GLIDING SCHOOL Wills \\(ling dealer, flytcc. (909) 678-2482. LAKE ELSIN(;)RE SPO TS -.Currently representmg Amvave, Nlb,:es, U , Seedwmgs, A~/iv[ounram bike rental and to~t's, 'all for site i fo(;narion. (909) 678-5418. MISSION S~RIN9' ENTER___::_ Serving rhe flving communit · sin ( 1973. Complete pilot training program with s1 ,al ,mernion to cake-off and landing skills. Cuscomfa1 erlice training gliders. Cornforcable training !tarfesses! Qcluxe retail shop. Wills, PacAir, UP, demo , new glid~'ts in stock' Fiest trade-in price.,. Try all t _snew harness - in our simulator. Large selection of specialized equ1 ·{lle11t, beginner ro XC. 1116 \Vriglev Way, i'vlilpita.0(near San Jose) CA 95035. (408) 262-1055. SIERRA SAILS - PacAir sales and se1vice. Serving Sierra foothills and Lake McClure area since 1988. (209) 532-1302.

May 1993

COLORADO CLOUD BASE - Cuided tours, drivers, l'ideos, accessories. (719) 630-7042, FAX (719) 630-8126. PO Box 16934, Colorado Springs CO 80935.

::~1c;

COLORA'Q9 GLIDING/PARAGLIDING - Celebrac:n~ •cars of lessons and sales. 1st USHGA cerrified scho l_in the U.S.A. Region's largest and oldest. Operaci, 0 rillJ,,,:_ime since 1972. (303) 2789566. ~ EAGLE'S NEST SC OOL OF HANG GLIDING/PARAGdQIN - USHGA & APA certified instruction. Sall>- ·

mountain fli~hi, cr8tomer service and satisfaction. Lesson packa s, racing\\ glider rentals. Largest invenrorv new/u;i d hang gliilfrs, equipment. Complete sail/airfraifrepairs. Campl 1g ($2/pcrson), swimming pool. ~e, 8 $2 for infonnati '_' packer. Route 2, Box 21 5-H, Rising Fawn GA 30 38 (20 minurcs from Chart· nooga, Tennessee) (80 ) 688-LMl'P, (706) 398- · 541. G SUPPLY -

SEQUATCHIE

IDAHO TREASURE VA~EY,,,-"HANG GLIDING Airwave, Mo)'eS, ur}q'emo's, ratings, tours, service. (208) 376-7914./ \

ficd instruccion.

ILLINOIS

LID ENTJ\~2 SES - Sail and harness repair Equipmen'. )! anufacturing - Towing supplies - 5000 Butte #183( B ~der, CO 80301 (303) 440- 3579.

~.,,

MOUNTAI~~NGS- Look under New York.

- (312) 360-0700 or (708) ur ad under WISCONSIN.

INDIANA

JJ MITCHELL -

CONNECTICUi' \';,.

RAVEN SKY SP 360-0700. Please se

TANDEM. UP, PacAir dealer.

6741 Colun_1.bia-·\~mmond, IN 46324 (219)

k<S-2856. / " / · \

~~ Classifieds NEW YORK RAVEN SKY SPo\r~:.._'__ (414) 473-2003. Please see our ad under \Vlo/'=O~IN. MICHIGAN GREAT LAKES HANG GJ,l·DING, INC. - USHGA certified instru or. /L:lealers for Moyes gliders, Located near \v'arren tmes new & used equipm (GIG) 465-5859.

ERS - FULL-TIME shop. Certified insrrncrion, foot launch and tow. Sales, service, accessories for ALL major brands. VISA/MASTERCARD. Come soar our 450' dunes! 1509 E 8th, Traverse City ii,.[[ 49684. Call Bill at (619) 922-2844.

AAA iv!OU TAIN WINGS H CENTER D FLIGHT PAR - Now offering PARAGLID NG instructio and sales. Base of ELLEN\IILLE TN. four exclusive training hills. Area's only dcale1 or Paci c Airwave, UP, Seedwings and Delta \Ving, 'ch emos in stock. We are the largest, most complet -I.G. accesso1y and repair shop of its kind in the CO} nn1 Many new and used gliders in stock. RIC su~fies and 'ts, Ultra Pod camera systems. \IISA and 1 ASTERC D accepted. Stop in and get vour fljgiy:,pass and gate - mbo. 150 Canal Sr., Ellenville, NY 12428 (914) 647-3377. In N.E. 1800-525- 7850. FLY HIGH HANG GLIDING, INC. - Serving S. New York, Connecticut, Jersey a· , s (Ellenville Mm.). Area's E CLUSIVE Wi !<?ing dealer/specialist. Also all rher ma' brands, accessories. Certified school/in rue ·on. Teaching since 1979. Area's most INEXPE IVE prices/repairs. Excellem secondary insrrucri n ... 1- you've finished a program and wish to c~nt· ue. Fly n,mountain! ATOL rowing! Tandem fl'bhts! Contact P)ul Voight, RD 2, Box 561, Pine Bus , NY 12566, (914) 71i4-3317.

NORTH COAST HANG GLIDING - Certified Instruction. New & used gliders. Specializing in Pacific Airwavc gliders. Mike Del Signore, 1916 W. 75th Sr., Cleveland, OH. 44102 (216) 631-1144. OREGON AIRTIME OREGON - USHGA certified instructor. Emphasizing safcty=progress. Dealer for AS!, Moyes, PacAir, UP, Wills Wing and most of the harness manufacturers. (503) 998-1220. MOUNTAIN SPORTS & HOBBY - Lakeview, Oregon. Pacific Airwavc dealer, Giant bicycle dealer, bicycle rentals, full line sporting goods store. Excellem mountain bike trails, excellent fishing. \Y/e are hang glider pilots and USHGA members. (503) 947-2261, (503) 947-5089. Mountain Sports & Hobby, Lakeview Oregon.

Pacific Ai,wave,

MINNESOTA SPORT SOARING ,ENTE~NNEAPOLIS Instruction, cquipme t d rtrs for Pacific Airwave, UP & Wills Wing. (61 7-0044.

GM! PARAGLIDING SCHOOL - ln New York. Certified Instruction. Free color brochure. (516) 6767599. iv!OUNTAI PARK

MISSOURI

C:oopersrow, , NY. C Service for al major manufacturers. 40 acre park, 5 training hills, jc rides, bunk house, camping, hot showers, 600' N ·idge. We have the best facilities in N. New Yor · state ccacl1 you how to fly. RD 2, Box 348A, 'oopersto •n, NY 13326. (315) 8666153. -

SAIL WINGS -xkansas. NEVADA ADVENTURES ty - USHGA & A

NE\V JERSEY

COROLLA FLIG!y~ America's most experienced tandem fligh in ifucror, reaches utilizing ATOL and Double \lisio ';-,.~ail or write for information Greg DcWolL C olla'(Jight, PO Box 1021. Kirty Hawk NC 27919. ~919) 2~166

,\!OUN'

IN WINGS -

Look under New York.

NE\v' MEXICO Lil' OVER NE\'(l~MFXIC~ lnsrrucrion, sales, scr\'icc. Sandia (\,[ou t; · n guidc~. \'\-'ills, Seed wings, Jlacif,c ,\invavezD · a, ;>,,J,wes. ,\lbuquerquc, Ni\,J (505) 821-8541i. _

Our advertising has a two-man th lead time plan ahead.

TENNESSEE HAWK J\Ilt's~'Oy;r<iNc - P.O. Box 9056, Knoxville, TN,,, 40-0056, (615) 9J3-929G. Hang Gliding and Zl'!indso ·s.

NORTH CAROLINA ~ - · NV 89706

WIND\XIALKER HANG GLIDING - Certified instruction. Pacific Airwave Dealer/Glider Accessories. VISA/MC accepted. RR #2 Box 2223, Schickshinny PA 18655. (717) 864-3448.

_.,----~-·-

LIVE "BETW · N" LAUNCHES - Lookout Mrn., 1-1..e. nson's Gap, 'rysral Air Sport Morel. Private -~·.ooms, bunkymse, 'acuzzi pool. (615) 821- 2546 _c_:h_a_rr_a_n_o_o_g_a._•_ _ _,,,___ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

1<o.

KITTY HAWK KITES, !NC. Box 18J9, \:ags He.id, NC 2_;'959 (919 'i4J-412ii. Learn to hang glide on Jocke) 's Rid , the largest sand dune on rhe east coast, just . , fith of where the \Vrighr Brnrhers' first fligl ook place. Beginner and adnnced lesson acka, cs and camps offered. Advanced tande1 row inm ction, 1500 It. plus up. Dealer for all ~ ajor brand gli '\·~, complete invenrot}' of new and used gliders, accessm\es and parts. SAURATOWN i'dOUNTAlN - Experienced resident pilot site guide. Tommy Thompson (919) 983-

PARK -

See

SEQU TCHIE VA.ci,EY SOARING SUPPLY Cerrifie ,. two place gin instruction and first mountain flight · re our ,ecialries. Rentals, storage and ratings available. alers for all major brands. Located in the "Hangr1· 1 " Capital of the East". For personal, profcssiona service) u can trust, call SVS, RT 2 Box 80, Dunla , TN 3732 . (615) 949-2301. TEXAS

90Gli. OHIO SKYWARD EN RPRISES/ivlARIO MANZOBasic instructor. Pr ne &pi! repair. Seedwings, CG1000. Dayton/Chilli die. (513) 256-3888 weekday evenings.

AAS. A STIN AllJ(SPORTS - Certified instruction, sales , ; dser.··{e for n1ost n1ajor n1anufacturcrs. Tandem inst 1cti, n available. Tow-launched training programs for ng I-Hang IV pilots. Mountain flying in Mexico ye, · und. \'(/rice to Steve Burns at 1712 Waterson, X 78703 or call Austin (512) 4741669, Ho ston (71. 471- 1488, or San Antonio (210) 82 -1803. HANG GLIDING

Classifieds

KITE ENTERPRf~ES - Zruction, .sales, repairs, towing and foot lau\cJ;t'i5.1llas & North Texas area. 211 Ellis, Allen 002. (214) 390-9090 anytime. Dealer, Pacific Aywave, ;>(fills \'(ling.

!yt

.J'

RED RIVER AIRC FT Ha,!.,g'gliding .specialists. Instruction, sal , seryj£.Towing supplies. MC/VISA. AUSTIN- l~ Red River, Austin TX 78751. (512) 4G7_) 29 fax (512) 467-8260. FT. WORTH (817) ?.21- G95 UTAH

WASATCH WINts - U,Sl'!GA certified hang gliding school. dealers ·tf Wing, lvloyes and Pacific Airwave. flight opz I 115 at Poim of the 1'vlountain. Call Gordon (80 lJ 277-1 4 2.

Rl~\'

VIRGINIA KITTY HAW K ~ -

!f,

COMPOSITE FI R o 2 S TEMS - Lightest and smallest availa $49~+S/H. lvlajor credit cards. Other n;ru10dels nd information available. i\founrain High E S o., 516 12th Avenue, Salt Lake City UT 84 3 USA. 1-800-468-8185.

HIGH PERSPECTIVE WHEELS-REAL LIFE SAVERS! - 12", light, tough. Fits all gliders. Send $37 + $2.95 shipping per pair to Sport Aviation, PO Box 101, Mingovillc PA 16856. Ask about our dealer prices.

See North Carolina.

Proven Pilots Say That...

SILVER \XIJNGS, INC. - Certified instruction and equipment sales. Proudly representing Pacific Airwave, Wills Wing, Secdwings & UP. (703) 5331%5 Arlington VA.

"... WIND ADVISORY AIR/WIND SPEED INDICATORS HELP You LAUNCH & FLY SAFE!"

\VISCONSIN RAVEN SKY.-,SPORTS 1lNG GLIDING AND l'ARAGL!DIN0 - Lar est and most popular in the Midwest. Trad'i. ion curriculum, ridge soaring, mountain clinics, , ragonfly aerotowing & tandems by Brad Kushn r. s114stservice/accessories for all major brands. 0 Box r<.J_l, \'(lhitcwater WI 53190 "'

(414) 473-20 3.

\.,

PARTS &ACCESSORIES BALL G52 - Like new, all options. Flextubes, dual gain, louder, etc. Perfect. J use calibrated, must sell $525 make offer. (510) 7%-7021.

(With Poplin Storage Bag) (\

.]i/ ~(Box With

eed Conversion Chart)

DEPENDABLE '\' ·nd tunnel rested & calibrated. BUILT TO LA , impact & corrosion resistant. Easy to read.~adfi,;;_cion ~uaranteed. Send check or Jvf/0 for $15 $2 s'Y.H). tore1gn orders add $2. To Pacific Resat ces U.s\ .. PO Box 9064, San Diego CA 92169.f/ \

THE FAMO S "LAMBIE LID" Aerodynamic hang glider helmet $85. Full- face v sion, with kevlar-fiberglass guard S 120. Jack Lam ie, 8160 Woodsboro, Anaheim CA 92807, (714) 779-1877.

•

£~~' .. I

BIG WHEELS - S urdy, ro»ghl lightweight, excellem for uaining, solo tan efo flying, any basetube. $42.95/sct, quantity ,~ counts. Immediate deliven•. Lookout Mount ain ,fflig t Park, (800) 688-LMFP, (706) 398- 3 541

---=:::=;,

. =-~ --:-,--.-.,

GRADE A SHEEPSKIN ha1:,,vfaii'.i;1gs. REDESIGNED FOR SUPF.RI9R'COMFORT, POCKF.T-Sy;tandard. Warmest he Send $47 to Wyo. Aerolitcs, PO Bo 80, Casper WY 82602. (307) 235- 3367 ') cl S 15 'or X-large. Custom orders accepted. ,

,116rid.

BLACKHAWK EZ - Custom made, $519 includes shipping. Silver Wings (703) 533-1 %5

May 1993

I 0-CHANN 'L PRO RAM MABLE MAXON SP 2550 - 5 watt vo vay radio with recharger. Three USHGA, three w her, four programmable frequenc. ies. Durable, rn g.ed7'~· sy to use: Nicacl battery (typical 10 hour) Ptlors 1 choice! Special $349. Additional tions avaiLl,lc. Lookout Mountain

Flighc P"'k, 800) 688 LMFP>{~S4'

HIGH ENERGY 20 GORE PDA CHUTE Excellent condition, swivel, bag, bridle, never deployed $300. Roberts Bread Pan vario, new condition, works great $200. Jim (415) 573-1332 or (415) 358-9012.

E~ Classifieds

MINI VARIO - World's smallest, simplest vario! Clips to helmet or chinstrap. 200 hours on batteries, 0-18,000 ft., fast response and 2 year warranty. Great for paragliding too. ONLY $169. Mallettec, PO Box 15756, Santa Ana CA, 92705. (714) 541-2625. 0 2 FOR LESS - Composite fiber systems. 480 & 240 liter sizes, $395 & $415. Also aluminum systems, 419 & 249 liter sizes $225. Systems are complete, with on/off value, adjuster regulator, oximizer cannula and rnbing (add $15 S/H). Call for information or to order. High Alrirnde Oxygen Supply (406) 728-2409. "OL' EAGLE EYES" FLIGHT GLASSES - UV and blue blackout with wrap- around frames. Plain AU$ I 05., your prescription single-vision AUS 145., bifocal AU$165. Lenses only also available. ELECTRONIC TOW TENSION METERS - For fixed length line towing, AU$185. Info sheets and dealers welcome. Denis Cummings, PO Box 741, Brv.91r Bar 2481,Australia.1:'ax/phone 6166856 28

TEK 6" \'I/HEELS - $25 per pair, plus $3 S/H. Tck Flight Products, Colebrook Stage, \'{finstcd CT 06098. (203) 379-1668. GATION -- Allow a f, low pilot and licensed ham h you decide on a s tem that fits your needs. Yaesu F 1 IE 5299., !co P2 $354.95, Alinco models DJF1· $285., 01·nH $312.95, DJ180T $219.95. Ke, vood} 28A $344.95. Mobiles 45w from $339. All m d fs available. MARS/CAP MODS AVAILABLE, w,y1 nty intact. lcom aircraft radio's ham $429. Ant hnas: /Swv magmt $37.85, HT 1/4 gain $14.95, -IT 5/8 lescopic $20.95. Special mounts avai, ble for all ap14.cations. Tow rope J/4" poly $35/ 00', 3/16" poly $3Qf!OOO'. Hook knives $14.95, -Mitts $32. TRIMBI;~LIGHTMATE GPS, viewed in J/93 HG, spcc11t~rice $790., inclu cs accessory package. Vario's ram Ball, Aire tee, $call. Dealer for all major bran ~/e've eith · gar the BEST PRICES or we'll match them!" Kentuckiana Soaring, 425 Taggart Ave., Clarksville IN 47129. Phone/fax (812) 288-7111 evenings and weekends, send SASE for sale flyer.

TRIMBLE FLIGHTMATE GPS - Sec March '93 issue for description. $795 plus shipping, includes control bar mount. Credit cards accepted. Call ATC, (703) 369-2124.

S'.lva Com~ass with &\sernbe m::-' .t ............... $119 l\laxon 5 \YI, 3 USHO chan ifl-hr/lo ............ $359 Alinco DJ 180T Transc ive ............................ $300 Compatible VOX/PTT- DST, all models ..... $80 2nd Charm Cool Thryst cket Rocket ......... $550 Aramid Full-Face HJ(mct. .............................. $300 lt~O-\YIE- Y-XC 800-933-51:f92 19-539-3900 Pendulum Sports Inc., 13154 C unry Rd 140, Salida co 81201

SYSTEK II VAR!OMETER - !deal for new pilots. Single most important instrument for thermal flying. Quick response, adjustable set· point, mount fits faired and/or round rnbes. Economically priced $250. Systems Technology Inc., PO Box 7203, Knoxville TN 37921, (615) 531-8045.

ball lock pin, $29.0 . 1O;OOO lbs., dealers welcome, patent pending. Then { 19431-41 Business Center Drive, Nonhridge, CA ~ 1 8 ) 701-7983.

Our advertising has a two-month lead timeplan ahead.

VIBRANT COLORS - 100% nylon. Sun, weather, water repellant. American Made! Sunrise (traditional) $34. Three foot neon fish $22., 4' long $32. flying pig $30. Corncob $22. Cockatoo bird $28. Small chili pepper $20, 6' long $48. Small carrot $20, 6' long $38. Checks payable to Brian Fry, (include $3 S/H), 4717 !30th Ave SE, Bellevue WA 98006. (206) 865-0257.

HANG GLIDING

Classifieds ~~ PUBLICATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS

Cross Country DON'T GET CAUGHT LANDING D0\1'N\1'1ND1 1.5 oz. ripsrop nylon, UV created, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Available colors: fluorescent pink/yellow or flnnrescent pink/white. $39.95 (+$4.00 S/H). Send tn USHGA \"<?indsok, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs. CO 80933-8300, (719) 632-8300. fAX (719) 632-6417. VJSA/ivlC accepted.

Checks payable to: Schutte

IND

WINDTALKER Ill .

PARAGLIDE USA - Subscribe co North America's most widely read paragliding magazine. 12 issues just S25. Send check or money order to 1520 Main St., Ramona C:A 92065 or call (619) 789-9492 or fA)C (619) 789-8563 with your credit card information.

.rr--~\ - -

r- -'_ \

A True Hong Gliding Stoiv THE WINDTALKE~ is re1;,1,9-te'co;~~:1i:d- bv telephone, and can kc 00 a~s codes, with preset numbers of calls that can,~fuo dccrcmcnr. Also will call you if conditions e tee threshold. Price is nnll' S895 com piece. 1-'re,, 1nfor111a Licek (503) 4796633. . ~

HIGHER THAN EAGLES - bv lv[aralys & Chris \Vills. The life & ,imes of BOBBY \'(!ILLS, hang gliding legend. Experience che triumphs and tragedies of the Wills family and the evolution of Wills Wing. $ 19.95 hardcover (+S4.00 S/H), see above classified for USHGA BOOKS ordering info.

bi,,

LARRY FLEMING

SOARING - lv[onthlv magazine of The Soaring Societr of America, Inc. Covers all aspects of soaring flight. hill membership $45. Info. kit wirh sample cop,· $3. SSA, P.O. Box E, Hobbs, NM 88241. (505) .'392-1177.

iz'1.

BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

FULL AND PART ~ME y?i:;~·A certified instructors. Innovative -e~Jl13e1fur, the latest ,raining methods. Soaring Safaris. '.'{nd resume Mission Soaring Center. 1 1ptrigkj Way, iv!ilpitas CA 95035. (408) 262-1CT"$5. · START A T5 Rf.ER IN HANC GLIDING -

00\'vNWIND - SPECIAL OFFER, SAVE $2 S/H! If you like to fly, you have to read this book! Readers stare our on che craining slopes of 1974 and slowlv advance co 200+ mile flights downwind in the Owens Valley. A true scory, wdl told. Available from Chris Gregor Publishing, Dept. G, PO Box 26595, Fresno CA 93729-6595. $10.95 plus~ $1 shipping and handling. (California rcsidencs add 85, sales tax.)

KEVLAR TOW LIN!/- 900 lb. resr. Hollow braid for easy spl!G~)g, c~a for abrasion. Available only in 4,000' rolls. Rdfr,,. al systems from $75. Hook knives, -~DVICE! Brad Lindsav (602) releases, bridles,

€cl

LINE CHUTES SAVE MONEY - Patterns, pre-cue kits, or complete. Three sizes, low as $29.95. Call evenings (303) 571-8873.

or part rin1c, if) u'rc an Instr cror with a profrssion-

al attimde and can ~ture iursclf enjoying good par and benefits teaching 1~ gliding in a sunny climate that allows year-round Npg, call or write us (attn. Andy Beem). If yo· re o'h, of the right people, \1'indspons can hcl you gee )~\l" hang gliding career off che ground. 1 145 Vicc01y B1~., Van Nuys, CA 91406 (818) 98 -0111, Fax 988-18~

May 1993

AIRCRAFJ' ~ro1 / Red River. Towing supplies, bridles, releases,{)l tforms and more. MC/VISA. (512) 467-2529.

863-9909 eves/

Full

USHGA CE)~'nrn~/~"!STRUCTORS Tandem, hg/pg w~ Cjl. full/part time. Send resume to Achim Hagema 1, Santa Barbara Hang Gliding Paragliding Cenr r, 29 ~cc Sr., Santa Barbara CA 93101. (805) 9 ~-8999.

TO\'(IING J

2500' REEL - 3/16" coated Kevlar towline and a L!NESAVER recovery chute. Never used, $220 shipped. (808) 638-5543.

HANG GLIDING FOR BEGINNER PILOTS by Pete Cheney. The Official USHGA Training i'-[anual, NOW IN ITS SECOND EDITION Over 260 pages, with more than 160 easy-rn-understand illustrations and photos. Your libra1y st.arcs with rhis book! $29.95 (plus $4.00 s/h) Colorado rcsidems add 3% cax. SEND/fAX/PHONE TO: USHGA BOOKS, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, CO 80933-8300, FA)C (719) 632-6417, PHONE (719) 632-8300. VISA/iv[C accepted.

SMARTOW - , inches available from REEL ALTITUD&:_'.' T THE FIRST, JUST THE BEST." Call for ~cs and availability. Call Brad Lindsay for free rochurc'{.~~ 863-9909 eves. TBT TOW SYSTEM - 8' X 5' modified trailer, includes 6000' Speccraline, 3000' Kevlar, 2000' Polypropylene. Used less than 10 times. Excellem condition, original cost S3200., asking S 1900., or trade for Double Vision glider. Night (501) %7-7057 or day (501) 964-8356.

~~ Classifieds YOUR Urv[B!LICAL CORD - ;; uld you b~?e'l cheapest? /v!ake the move to quality at lasr 7 igh r; strong, performance Spectra & Dacron ropes. cost effective, easy ro splice. Call David ~Bradley (215) 723-1719. FAX (215) 453-1515. ,all for refer-

cnces.

VIDEOS & FILMS DON'T iv!ISS THE ENDLESS THERMAL! Awesome Northern California, Oregon flying. 90 minutes VHS. $33 + $2.90 shipping. California add 7.25% rax. Blacet Research, l 52~rchard, Guerneville CA 95446. / EVERYTHING YOG5XiAN))fJ_) TO KNOW About rowing bur were , i· lc! ro crash. Truck, foot, aero and GLV launchin~/ 142g gliders and paragliders. $34.95 (602) 86.'3)')09 ev~. SOARING YOSEMITE - From sign in and set up, co launch and landing, this video provides a pilots eye view of hang gliding in Yosemite Valley. Each tape is $22 plus $3 shipping/handling. CA residents add $1.87 tax. Aden Brothers Studio, 350 Turkshead Lane, Redwood City CA 94065. ULTRAUGHT fl.YING VIDEO - By United Srates Ultralight Association, hosted by industry expert John Ballantyne. Flying scenes, interviews with pilots, fAA, n1anufacrurers. Satisfaction guaranteed.

Visa, MasterCard, check. $19.95 plus $3 shipping. 1800-598-8344. MISCELLANEOUS EAST COAST PILOTS - Welcome to Sylmar, hang gliding CAPITOL of the WORLD! You can leave your American Express card, bur don't leave home without your sense of humor! Dead-Fye PS: \'v'elcome home Dave, Honey! GLIDER MARKING INTERNATIONAL CORP. - For any artwork on your hang glider. Free color brochures. Phone (516) 676-7599, fax (516) 6760106. VIDEOS BOOKS POSTERS APPAREL - Call USHGA for your Merchm1dise order form (719) 632, 8300. DON'T LEAVE YOUR GROUND-BOUND EQUIPMENT SITTING IN THE GARAGE. SELL IT IN THE HANG GLIDING CLASSIFIEDS.

FAX your classified ad:

(719) 632-6417. We gladly accept VISA and MasterCard.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES The rate for classified advertising is $. 50 per word (or group of characters) and $1.00 per word for bold or all caps. rv!INl/v!UM AD CHARGE, S5.00. A fee of $15.00 is charged for each line art logo and $25.00 for each photo. Please underline words to be in bold print. Special layours of tabs $25.00 per column inch. AD DEADLINES All ad copy, instructions, changes,

BLACK TRAVEL BAG - From PARADOX, CO launch on Sept. 14th, 1992. Bag contents IC:Oivl radio serial# 37257, HS 51 headset w/charger, Canon 35mm Sureshot, 1vlarine compass w/ball clamp, Sport 167 manual, extra ball clamp, logbook, misc. tools. REWARD! Contact Mike Tepper (619) 429-5685.

additions and cancellations 1nust be received in wrir-

iv[OYF.S XS - from ASPEN, CO LZ (lv!arolt) on Sept. 12, 1992. Custom glider, sky blue, white & laYender. iv!oyes decal on kingposr, with no other advertisement on glider. Contact Jeff Mallin (303) 920- 4326.

ing l l /2 months preceding the cover date, i.e. October 20 for the December issue. Please make checks payable to USHGA Classified Advertising Dept. HANG GLIDING ivfAGAZINE, P.O. Box 8300, Colorado Springs, CO 80933 (7 l 9) 632-8300 or FAX (719) 632-6417.

VISION iv!K IV 19 - Late August 1992 in SEATTLE, WA. Black LE, yellow wedge on top surface, white TE, yellow wedge (w/blue) on bottom. Jerry ivkCown (206) 526-2793.

STOLEN WINGS WW SPORT 167 - from GOLDEN, CO (Golden Wings Hang Gliding Shop), in mid-October 1992. Green LE, black comfort grips on each downtube and two on speedbar. Extra-big pocket sewn on glider bag for speedbar. Cable through speedbar. Two 1/8" shims on each wingtip. Contact Jonathan Miller, 6880 \'ii 91st Ct. 16-306, Westminster CO 80021. Call collect (303) 423-9978 or Ball Varios.

STOLEN WINGS are listed as a service to USHGA members. Newest enuies are in bold. There is no charge for this service and lost and found wings or equipment may be called in to (719) 632-8300 for inclusion in Hang Gliding magazine. Please call to cancel the listing when gliders arc recovered.

Periodically, this listing will be purged.

D[NGFR SUPER - 90 from a barn in AUBURN, CA on Nov. 29th, 1992,. Very light blue with a red/orange yellow cemer. Comact Bob Lynch (916) 823-5890. TRUCK AND PARAGLIDER/EQUIPMENT - By the volunteer driver at SLIDE MOUNTAIN, CA. in mid November. Karana 22 paraglider (yellow w/black wingtips), Pocket Rocket recovery parachure, Sitting Bull harness (purple/black), Ball vario. Contact Steve Bickford (707) 963-3455. \'(I\Xf HARRIER II

177 From a barn in AUBURN, CA on Nov. 20th, 1992, Serial # 7056. Black with red/orange/yellow center and white TE. Contact Bob Lynch (916) 823-5890. lv!K IV 19 - From LAURINBURG/lv!AXTON AIRBASE, NC (glider taken approx. 1 mile away from base) on Nov. 15th, 1992. Red LE, Ir. blue/purple undersurface, 1/2 ribs. Contact Brent Harsh (919) 387- 7116. UP XTR 145 - From SANDIA PEAK, NM area on Oct. 1 I th, 1992. Pink LE, black nose panel, pink lower surface, black UP lettering. Serial #XTR 1459203123. Contact George Boyden (505) 2990312. SENSOR B STANDARD - From TRABUCO CANYON, CA area on Sept. 28, 1992. Red LE, orange, white TE, red tail, VG. Call Bob Hafstrom (6 l 9) 274-4824. YAESU FT-23R 2 METER HAND-HELD RADIO - from PARADOX, CO launch on Sept. 14, 1992. REWARD! Contact Rusty Whirley, 1549 CR 17, Gunnison CO 81230, (30.3) 641-9315.

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS ~-Adventure Video ..................................... :':49Aircotec .................................................. ~ =Air Gear ..................... , ............................ ,;-l-i='AirWear Spons ........................................Q~ u

:~:.~:i~t~g~.~~::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::d)

~- Brauniger .................................................@ ~ BRS ........................................................... 15• = East Coast Video ......................................,,,.,.:,·= Enterprise Wings ............................ , .. , .... QZ) . - Flytec ................................................ , .....~

~.~::!:~:d;;~~·c·~;~~·~;.··~f·s~;~·o;~~~·:::::::~ ®

.=+Iigh Energy Sports ................................. Just Fl) ........................................................ 2.. --::...La Mouette ............................................... 34 ~·Lookout Mr. Flight Park ......................... G]) ~fountain Condo ...................... , ...... , ........ 25 ' Pacific Airwave ........................... ~~ •¥

,. J· V

·o<

......... , .. ., .. .,, .... .,, .. .,.,_ --

=' Para Pipeline ............................................~

,--,RCI ..........................................................G]) ·- Second Chanrz ........................................ (19) -, Sequatchie Valley Soaring ........................ (1) ,--../iport Aviation Publicatiens-....................... ~·

'"~~!!k.i1~·~··usA::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::~

'" UP International ...................................... <,!,pl USHGA ......................... :=z~4;--l.·3-;-4,4 -Wills Wing .......................................... ~ ·~World Teams ........................................... @

HANG GLIDING

i - - - - - - - ---- ------- - 1

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~ Product Lines © 1993 byDanjohnson ST. PAUL, MINN. -- May is always a special time of year for me. You see, each May I start another year in the "Product Lines" logbook. I appreciate your loyal readership as I conclude 14 years and begin No. 15 of writing this lil' ole column. My "THANKS!" at the end of each column couldn't be more sincere. I'll work hard to keep your readership as another year passes. Well, on with the show... • •, Lots of well-deserved hoopla for Wills Wing's 20th Anniversary. I visited the factory just before all the action (for a story that will appear on Wills Wing in the July '93 issue of Kitplanes... look on newsstands everywhere in late May) . WW Prez Kells gave me a thorough tour -- well, that is, after they hid any new goodies they might have so you don't read about 'em prematurely in this column. The tour ended in the design offices of Steve Pearson. I was pleased to see an old friend assisting Steve at one of the CAD computers: Roy Haggard. Roy's been involved in the aerospace design community for a few years. Good to see him using the same creative talents that once brought us the Comet. Meanwhile another manufacturer has reached a twenty-year point. Though Seedwings's Bob Trampenau has not been manufacturing that long, he has been designing and constructing since January, 1973. Back then his focus was on something he called the Petrel, a foam and fiberglass footlaunchable wing that was featured in a 197 4 issue of Soaring magazine. Interestingly, Bob conferred about this design with Erwin Rodger, another east coast enthusiast who would later design the Cloud Dancer ultralight motorglider. After the Petrel, Trampenau chose to stray from "conventional" materials; he turned to tubing and Dacron. His Sunseed followed in '74 and was popularized by Eric Raymond though it never went into production. That transition machine led to the first Sensor in 1975. Most of you know the history from then to now. The Sensors are in their sixth generation and have lost quite a few squares in the passage of time. , , • Now Bob reports building what he calls "small batches," meaning 30 units at a time. His line includes the 610-152 and 144 which he says, "work out very well for batch production." Seedwings continues to attract those pilots looking for something special and most of their customers are fiercely loyal. As is his manner, Trampenau looks for continual refinements. His latest involves new crossbar pull-back hardware that cuts the loads in half while simultaneously reducing the hardware volume by half. Our sport got some

May 1993

excellent coverage in the AOPA (Aircraft Owners & Pilots Ass'n) magazine, Pilot. This in-house magazine goes out to the 265,000 members of AOPA making it what I believe is the second-largest circulated flying magazine on the planet. The author is a familiar name: former HG writer, Eric Fair. Spanning nine pages and earning a mention on the cover, Fair's piece, "The Fly ingest Flying There Is" presents our favorite way to fly in an excellent light. Most meaningful was a sidebar called "Taking the Plunge" by AOPA editor, Mark Twombly. Except for mentioning that he saw "more than a few" pilots who "had trouble" landing, his view was positive (he also complimented his tandem instructor, Rob McKenzie) . Photos were credited to Jeff Elgart of the USHGA offices. • , , Speaking of McKenzie ... this enterprising tandem pilot has helped orchestrate a huge new field for those flying Crestline. At the recent board of directors meeting in Colorado Springs, McKenzie told me the whole story. It's great! Kind of a bad news/good news thing, the LZ was first lost for hang gliding. New federal owners took over and that brought activity to a temporary halt. McKenzie and others got to work right away. They enlisted an L.A. pilot with lots of experience at dealing with the bureaucratic mind: guru Joe Greblo (owner of Windsports). McKenzie says Joe did a superlative job assembling and presenting a convincing package. Rob also gives credit to the site's founder, Andy Jackson, who, by establishing an airpark many years ago, created a situation that ultimately resulted in taxpayer money being used to build a proper LZ. The total State of California budget will exceed $500,000 to make the field right. Part of this massive expenditure is for 200,000 20yard truckloads of earth to level the field! The new LZ will open by fall of this year. Hearty congratulations to Rob, Joe, and the San Bernardino members who helped. In closing ... you' 11 read more about the Air Sports Council, a conglomeration of five groups representing hang gliders, sailplanes, ultralights, sky divers, and balloons. The G5 boasts over 60,000 members and this gives the ASC some real Washington D. C. -style clout. The USHGA directors voted to ratify the accord at the end of March '93. As USHGA was the last to approve the pact, the ASC can now go forward with its mission. More on this later. ,,. Next time, info on Just Fly's new goodies line, and Paul Voight's witty whack wideo. So, got news or opinions? Send 'em to: 8 Dorset, St. Paul MN 55118. Fax or msg to: 612/450-0930 THANKS!

''Ya now'' I'd "really

e to hang out

and "chat" about my new VISION PULSE •quick set up time (around 5 Minutes) or the •killer sink rate I get for thermaling, or even about its •light and easy handling abilities. But unfortunately, while I'm skying out and going cross country, you're still stuffing ribs . So forgive me when I say- GOTTA GO!

"See Ya!"

Pacific Airwave , 1 083 Madison Lane, Salinas, California 93907. Phone (408) 422-2299 Fax (408) 758 3270