USHGA Paragliding November/December 1997 by US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association

744 70 90977

PARAGLIDING • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 1997

AIR MAIL

UPDATE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

RATINGS The U.S. ParaglidingWorld Team. See story on page20.

How OUR WINGS WORK -

PART II

Stalls and spins.

USHGA REPORTS

CLASSIFIEDS THE 1997WORLD PARAGLIDING CHAMPIONSHIP by Paul Klemond, US. Team. Lea(,'ter Who's the world's best pilot?

THE 1997 U.S. PARAGLIDING NATIONALS ~Will Gadd An American wins! COVER: Fred Weber winging over in front of Rendezvous Mountain, Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Photo by Fred Weber.

1997 USHGA REGIONAL DIRECTOR ELECTION Use the ballot attached to this iss1.Je of Paragliding.

DISCLAIMER OF WAR· RANl:lES IN PUBUCA'.

TIONS: The material presented· µere. is published as part ofan information dis-. setnination service for USH<,A memb,ers. The USHGA . makes no war. ranties. or representatio~ and asstli:nes no liability concerning ¢.e validity of· any advice, opinion or re<::ommendation expressed in the material. All individuals

contributors.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1997

Gil Dodgen, Managing Editor/Editor-in-Chief Steve Roti, Jon Goldberg-Hiller, Contributing Editors Dave Pounds, Art Director Will Gadd, Dennis Pagen Staff Writers Office Staff

Phil Bachman, Executive Director Jeff Elgart, Advertising D. Dean Leyerle, Membership Services Karen Simon, Accounting & Member Services Elaine Elgart, Membership Services Natalie Hinsley, Merchandise Services

KAGEL MOUNTAIN REQUIRES PARA

RATING

USHGA Officers and Executive Committee:

Bill Bryden, President Randy Adams, Vice President Russ Locke, Secretary Dan Johnson, Treasurer REGION 1: Bill Bolosky, George Sturtevant. REGION 2: Russ Locke, Ray Leonard, Paul Gazis. REGION J: Ken Baier, Joe Greblo, Gregg lawless. REGION 4: Mark Ferguson, Jim Zeise!. REGION 5: Frank Gillette. REGION 6: Ron Kenney. REGION 7: Bill Bryden. REGION 8: Randy Adams. REGION 9: Pete Lehmann, Geoff Mumford. REGION 10: G.W. Meadows, Matt Taber. REGION 11: Jeff Hunt. REGION 12: Paul Voight. DIRf:CTORS AT LARGE: Claudia Stockwell, Paul Rikert, Dan Johnson, Jan Johnson, Dennis Pagen. HONORARY DIRECTORS: Chris Dupaul, Bob Hannah, Gene Matthews, Lars Linde, Arjan Ala, Barbara Flynn, Alan Chuculate, Ed Pitman, Ken Brown, Sandy King, Mike Meier, Rob Kells, Fred Stockwell, Gregg McNamee, Michael Robertson, Greg DeWolf, Tracie Fifer. EXOFFICIO DIRECTORS: Art Greenfield (NAA).

Dear Editor, Kagel Mountain in Sylmar, California is one of the most consistently soarable sites in the country. The Sylmar Hang Gliding Association welcomes properly rated paraglider pilots who wish to fly with us over the beautiful San Gabriel mountains. However, like many other mountain sites, the conditions at Kagel can be challenging. For this reason, Kagel is a Para 3-rated site.

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The United States Hang Gliding Association Inc. is an air sports organization affiliated with the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) which is the official representative of the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), of the world governing body for sport aviation. The NAA, which represents the lJ .S. at FAI meetings, has delegated to the USHGA supervision of FAl-related paragliding activities such as record attempts and competition sanctions.

PARAGLIDING magazine is published for paragliding sport enthusiasts to create further interest in the sport, and to provide an educational forum to advance paragliding methods and safety. Contributions are welcome. Anyone is invited to contribute articles, photos and illustrations concerning paragliding activities. If the material is to be returned, a stamped, self-addressed return envelope must be enclosed. Notification must be made of submission to other paragliding publications. PARAGLIDING magazine reserves the right to edit contributions where necessary. The Association and publication do not assume responsibility for the material or opinions of contributors. PARAGLIDING editorial offices: 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy., Suite A-256, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, phone (714) 8887363, fax (714) 888-7464, e-mail: GilDodgen@aol.com. The USHGA is a member-controlled sport organization dedicated to the exploration and promotion of all facets of unpowered ultralight flight, and to the education, training and safety of its membership. Membership is open to anyone interested in this realm of flight. Dues for full membership are $54.00 per year (of which $15 goes to the publication of Paragliding), ($65 non-U.S.); subscription rates only are $26.00 ($32 non-U.S.). Changes of address should be sent six weeks in advance, including name, USHGA number, previous and new address, and a mailing label from a recent

issue.

PARAGLIDING (ISSN 1089-1846) is published bimonthly by the United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc., 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Suite 101, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903-3657 (719) 6328300. FAX (719) 632-6417. PERIODICAL POSTAG~ is paid at Colorado Springs, CO and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: PARAGLIDING, P.O. BOX 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

J.S. Shelley SHGA Secretary

HELP SAVE "THE POINT" Dear Editor, The landing area at Point of the Mountain is in jeopardy, and is now under contract to a developer. Project Leave-A-Piece (LAP) is soliciting funds in order to purchase land to preserve Lake Bonneville's shoreline and protect land for parks, recreation and open space. For the past 10 years Carolyn Baughman and Kathy Dorbeila of LAP have been coordinating efforts between landowners, Salt Lake County Commissioners, the Parks Department and the City of Draper in an effort to preserve this area. LAP is now accepting taxdeductible donations from individuals and private corporations to purchase five acres adjacent to the existing 40acre hang gliding park for $500,000. The purchase of this property will save

1997

VOLUME

ISSUE

this flying site by permanently securing a landing area near the existing park, and will open up the possibility of purchasing additional acreage for open space. All donations are tax deductible, as county parks are IRS-qualified entities. (For more information on deducting contributions and their tax benefits, see IRS Publication 526 Charitable Contributions.) This account is a dedicated fund, which earmarks the moneys exclusively for the Point of the Mountain project. If the transaction is unsuccessful, checks will be returned. This is a perfect opportunity to help promote paragliding and save a flying site, a site that is safe and predictable, where thousands of people have learned to fly and soar for the last 25 years. Make checks payable to: Salt Lake County Treasurer (Note: Gift Declaration #1006), Parks and Recreation. Send to: Project Leave-APiece (LAP), cl o Carolyn Baughman, Coordinator, 13077 South 3600 West, Riverton, Utah 84065. Carolyn Baughman Riverton, UT

PARAGLIDING

XIC

See the centerfold and story July '97 December '97 through April '98 Fly one of our locations: HG $795 PG $595 Travel Tours, fly them all: HG $995 PG $795 Valle de Bravo Guanajuato San Miguel "Seven days of flying ~O "Seven nights accommodations ~ ~ "Modern, state-of-the-art gliders c.f) ~ *Transportation to and from launch A.P?~ :a~-/inf!UO( guide service For the Big air, high clouds, dustys! discriminating glide head

Voice mail: (602) 285-4094 Fax: (602) 530-2938 e-mail skytours@juno.com Mexico directo: (52) 415-25152

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Calendar of events items WILL NOT be listed if only tentative. Please include exact information (event, date, contact name and phone number). Items should be received no later than six weeks prior to the first of the cover month (i.e., January 20 for the March/April issue). UNTIL DEC 31: WOR year-long X-C Contest. Sum of the best three HG/PG flights in three categories: Bay Area, Region II and anywhere. For more info visit http://members.aol.com/worxc and submit your flights on-line. Contact: Ramy Yanetz, 302 Easy St. #13, Mountain View, CA 94043, fax (415) 968-6212, worxc@aol.com, or call Mark Mulholland (408) 929-1753. NOV. 1-2: Womens Halloween Fly-In. Expertly organized by Kristin Armstrong (509) 327-8172, and Kristin Janosky (509) 925-2190 again! Start making your costume plans now. NOV. 1-3: Thermal Clinic sponsored by Air California Adventure and Sky Hook Sports at La Salina Ridge, Baja, CA. Contact: David Jebb (619) 452-9858, aircal@netcom.com. NOV. 6: A USHGA general membership meeting will be held in conjunction with the Board of Directors meeting in November. The membership meeting will be called to order at 4:00 PM local time, Thursday, November 6, 1997, at the Ramada Inn, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. NOV. 6-9: Fall USHGA Board ofDirectors meeting, Kitry Hawk, NC. All members are encouraged to attend! Please send your agenda items in writing ro the USI IGA office. Contact Karen Simon at USHGA Headquarters for information and reservations: (719) 632-8300, ushga@ushga.org. NOV. 7-9: ICP. Contact: Ken Hudonjorgensen, Two-Can Fly Paragliding, 474 E. Tonya Dr., Sandy, UT 84070 (801) 572-3414. NOV. 21-Dec. 1: Worldwide Adventure Tour in Chde. Join Mike Eberle and North American Paragliding, Inc. for their third year ofX-C flying in the famous Atacama desert of Northern Chile. Accommodations, airfare, ground transport and retrieval included. Small group size/limited space. Para 3 or equivalent recommended. Log serious airtime and miles, break a world record or just have a nice X-C flight. Contact: (509) 925-5565, napi@eburg.com. DEC. 12-14: Paragliding competition, Valle de Bravo, Srate of Mexico. Contact: Roberto Pous, pous@servidor.dgsca.unam.mx.

DEC. 14-19: Mauna Kea Fly-In. HG/PG. Intermediate and advanced pilots. Incredible flying with launch sites at 11,000', 12,500' and 13,700'. Snow on launch is a possibility. Includes prize money, 4WD to launch, free T-shirt, retrieval, guide, free ocean-side camping. Discounts on flights to Hawaii available. Contact: Achim Hagemann, Paraglide Hawaii, P.O. Box 797, Mountain View, HI 96771 (808) 968-8685, hagemann@gte.net, http:! /home l .gte.net/hagemann/index.htm. JAN. 15-29, 1998: 7th Annual Mescalito, Mexico

Thermal and X-C Paragliding Clinic and Tour. Tropical southern Mexico offers delightful sunset glass-offs and world-class thermal conditions in a holiday setting. Instructor, guide and vehicle services for all skill levels. Free tandem flying for nonpilots. Individualized coaching. Contact: Mescalito Adventure Company Ltd., (604) 858-2300, fax (604) 858-3080, mesc@unise1ve.com. JAN.18-25,JAN. 25-FEB. 1, 1998: Organized instruction and X-Clthermal coaching in Mexico by Granger Banks, USHGAAdvanced Tandem Instructor with six years experience taking paraglider pilots to Mexico, and Will Gadd, Tandem Instructor, U.S. distance record holder (138 miles), competition pilot and Mexico veteran/fanatic. Location: Igualla, Mexico two hours from Mexico City, or Acapulco site. Igualla is famous for excellent X-C opportunities, consistently flyable conditions, a perfect launch and easy drive-up access. Outstanding site for P2 or better pilots, very scenic. Cost: $900. Transportation, hotel and daily guide service included. Food, beer and everything else is cheap. Contact: Parasoft Paragliding School, 4445 Hastings Dr., Boulder, co 80303-6614 (303) 494-2820, parasofr@csd.net. FEB. 6-15, 1998: NewZeabmd '98. North American Paragliding, Inc. returns for their umpteenth annual trip to the beautiful Southern Pacific and some incredible flying. Great for pilots of any skill level. Accommodations, transport, retrieval, chopper (conditions permitting), etc. provided. Contact: (509) 925-5565, napi@eburg.com for reservations. FEB 21-MARCH 7, 1998: Brazil Paragliding Tour. Warm weather, X-C flying in Brazil at Governador Valadares. Tour led by U.S. insrructors with lodging, meals, transportation and retrieval provided in Brazil. $1,150 price does not include airfare. Special instructor rates. Contact: Adventure Sports (702) 883-7070, advspts@pyramid.net.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685.) 1. Title of publication: PARAGLIDING 2. Publication No. 1089-1846 3. Date of filing: September 22, 1996 4. Frequency of issue: Bi-Monthly 5. No. of issues published annually: 6 6. Annual subscription price: $26.00 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Suite 101, Colorado Springs, CO 80903-3657 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: Same 9. Full names and complete mailing addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor: Publisher: United States Hang Gliding Assn, Inc., 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Suite 101, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. Editor and managing editor: Gil Dodgen, 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy. #A-256, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688. 10. Owner: United States Hang Gliding Assn, Inc., 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Suite 101, Colorado Springs, CO 80903-3657. Its Officers are: Bill Bryden, President, 6608 N. 100 E. Rd., Seymour, IN 47274; Randy Adams, Vice President, P.O. Box 369, Claremont, NH 03743; Russ Locke, Secretary, 868 S. Mary Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94087; Dan Johnson, Treasurer, 8 Dorset, St. Paul, MN 55118. 11. Known bondholder, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1% or more of total amounts of bonds, mortgages or other securities: none. 12. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal income tax purposes: (1) Has not changed during preceding 12 months. 13. Publication name: Paragliding 14. Issue date for circulation data below: July/ August 1997 15. Extent and nature of circulation: (A) Total No. copies printed: 4,294 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 5,355 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (B1) Paid circulation through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales: 514 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 1,490 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (B2) Paid or requested mail subscriptions: 3,232 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 3,374 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (C) Total paid and/or requested circulation: 3,746 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 4,864 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (D) Free distribution by mail: 21 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 27 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (E) Free distribution outside the mail: 10 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 14 for Vol. 4, Issue 8. (F) Total free distribution: 31 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 41 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (G) Total distribution: 3,777 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 4,905 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (H 1) Copies not distributed - office use, leftovers, spoiled: 395 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 327 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (H2) Copies not distributed - returns from news agents: 122 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 123 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (I) Total: 4,294 av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 5,355 for Vol. 8, Issue 4. (J) Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 99% av.Imo. preceding 12 mo.; 99% for Vol. 8, Issue 4. 16. This statement printed in: Nov./Dec. 1997 issue. 17. I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete. Signed by: Jeff Elgart, Director of Circulation, 9/22/97.

PARAGLIDING

NOMINJ'.!.L LINE LENGHT (M)

DHV VEIGlW RAH GE(K G) DHV CLP.SS

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I by Phil Bachman and Tim Meehan

he following article by Tim Meehan originally appeared on the Internet in early August. The efforts ofthe Rocky Mountain Hang Gliding Association (USHGA Chapter #50) to obtain a new flying site were successful, but it is an all-too-typical story ofthe arduous tasks and perseverance necessary to gain approval for use ofa flying site. Last night the Lakewood City Council voted in favor of an amendment of the municipal code relating to hang gliding, paragliding, ultralight aircraft and hot air balloons. The vote was nine to one in favor of allowing paragliding in Green Mountain Park. A west-facing site is rare indeed along the east-facing Front Range of Colorado, and Green Mountain offers such a place. The mayor reflected the feelings of the other council members in saying that while she was personally opposed to amending the ordinance, she could find no legal grounds to continue the prohibition against such a use of the park's lands. Skeptical of the impact, she asked the managers of the city and community resources (the parks department) to report back to the council in 12 months on our impact on the land. What does this mean to the RMHGA? The ordinance prohibiting flying on Green Mountain is now a regulation, under the control of the Parks Department. This means that these activities may be legally and summarily discontinued at any time, without warning or provocation, as the Parks Department sees fit. This action is intended to allow a quick-

er, more streamlined response mechanism to park activities. With this amendment in effect, the city can prohibit or allow any of the other activities mentioned in the ordinance without bringing the matter to a public forum such as the city council. This can work in our favor as easily as it can work against us. In this case, we are being allowed the privilege of launching our sky-toys from within park boundaries, providing we meet a few easy requirements. They are: USHGA membership, RMHGA membership, and approval by the club AND by the parks people via a special-use permit that each pilot must apply for annually. However, we are now subject to the whims of the Parks Department. Without warning or reason they can easily refuse pilots entrance into the park. The bottom line: Paragliding from Green Mountain will become legally possible sometime around the middle of October. Hang gliding is still prohibited by the ordinance. We must behave ourselves. If we prove to be poor neighbors, we're out. No warning, no justification needed. What about hang gliding? All of the council members had their own tales and memories of bad experiences with hang gliders and pilots in the past. No kidding. They were somehow seriously against anything with the words "hang" and "gliding" next to each other. I suspect that if we had worded our proposal differently, saying that " ... hang gliders will be allowed only to fly overhead and drop gifts and money to homeowners, and cotton candy to the smiling children of Lakewood," they would still

have found some objection to the presence of hang gliders. On the advice of the director of the Parks Department we dropped the words "hang gliding" from our proposal in favor of a huge uphill battle of re-education. No matter what we tried we could not get around this immovable wall of prejudice. But by dropping those two words from our proposal, our chances of passing the amendment increased by at least l 00%. Our strategy now is to let paragliders exist quietly on the hill a few days out of the year. We'll be good neighbors, clean up after ourselves, follow the rules, and keep our heads down and our voices low. In 12 months when the director reports to the council what great people we are, then we can quietly ask the parks people to put "hang gliding" back into the regulation. What have we learned from this experience? The wheels of civic government can turn slowly. Patience and persistence are the traits that will see an effort like this through to completion. In our case, several similar attempts in the past l Oyears failed because the pilot-representatives trying to correct the injustice threw up their hands in disgust and gave up. That's just what our adversaries wanted. By keeping our noses to the guardrail (pardon the mixed metaphor), we made acquaintances and gained support for our plan, but it took us over three years to do it. Solution: Appoint committed individuals to the task. Biggest lesson of all: The actions of just a few belligerent hang glider pilots, many years ago, has cost all RMHGA hang glider pilots a major site by effecting their wholesale exclusion from this amendment. I'm not kidding. Advice to pilots: Every contact with someone outside our sport carries potential for undesired results. My advice is to treat every experience with strangers as a kind of job interview. Make the best impression you can at all times. Imagine yourself the sole representative of the sport. Make the experience a good one. In short, don't be an ass.

Tim Meehan can be reached at (303) 4204344 or: meehan@csd.net •

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INTRODUCING THE NEW USHGA PARAGLIDING TELE CARD

new USHGA telecard for paragliding and hang gliding has been designed and released. The telecard program generates royalties to USHGA when you use your card. These funds are to be used exclusively for site preservation expenses. In order for the USHGA to be effective in supporting our members' rights to continue to enjoy the air, we must be prepared with the financial resources to support these efforts now and in the future . The telecard program helps provide funds for this. A telecard, sometimes known as a debit card or a prepaid calling card, is a telephone calling card which you pay for in advance for a specific number of minutes or dollar amount, typically $2 to $100. To place a call, dial an 800 number, enter your PIN number, then dial the number you want to call. The account is drawn down as you talk, "spending" your time. The card allows calls to be made from any touch-tone telephone, including cellular, hotel and pay phones. When your time is running low it may be replenished immediately with your VISA, MasterCard, Discover or American Express card. The remaining balance is announced every time you use the card. Prepaid calls are cheaper than calls made with telephone credit cards, collect calls or cash at a pay phone. The cost per minute for all domestic calls is the same, regardless of the time of day or the location of the called parry. As an example of the

cost savings, imagine placing a call during the week from San Francisco to Tampa. You would pay 75 cents for a three-minute call with your telecard. The same call would cost $1.80 for a user of the AT&T TeleTicket card and $2.75 in coins at a pay phone. Since the telecards are prepaid, fraud, misuse and problems typically occurring with billing customers are eliminated. The surcharges and additional costs necessary with conventional calling cards are not needed. Hence, one can make a 25 cent per minute telecard call any time, day or night, within the United States. In other words, you will save 40%-50% when using a relecard versus a calling card. The concept of a relecard program for USHGA members obviously makes sense. We all make long-distance calls from rime to time. Regardless of the amount of calling we do, we can save 40%-50% of the expense. The USHGA will receive a royalty on the dollar amount of calls placed by members using their cards. Over the years this can become a significant factor toward offsetting the anticipated expenses associated with the continued protection of our flying rights, among others.

NEW "JAM" HARNESS ro-Design is now offering very comfortable and compact harnesses manufactured by DimensioneVolo. The Jam harness offers comfort and sufficient protection despite its compact size and light weight. An integrated reserve container on the side makes it easy to reach the reserve and affords the quickest possible deployments. The fully-adjustable strap system is also easy to use in flight, and the seat is adjustable to allow for the greatest possible comfort. The harness also incorporates automatic click buckles on the chest and leg straps and the cross-straps are adjustable. Side pockets and a generous backpack offer plenty of storage space.

Underneath the seat there is a zip compartment for water ballast with an outlet. Contact: Pro-Design USA, 2608 Hartnell Ave. #6, Redding, CA 96002 (916) 222-4606, fax (916) 222-4640, prodesig@snowcrest.net, www.ping.ar/members/pro-d/.

PRO-DESIGN RELAX

he Relax is the successor to the Compact and is a true intermediateclass paraglider. The glider is rated DHV 1/2 and is suitable for pilots who have previous experience on intermediate canopies because of its dynamic behavior and high performance. The Relax will be available in three sizes: 34, 36 and 38. The Relax 36 has already been DHV certified Class 1/2 and development and certification are underway on the 34 and 38. Contact: Pro-Design USA, 2608 Hartnell Ave. #6, Redding, CA 96002 (916) 222-4606, fax (916) 222-4640, prodesig@snowcrest.net, www.ping.at/members/pro-d/.

ADVANCE NEWS

Advance are now available in the United States through Airtime of San Francisco. The R&D team is spearheaded by Robert Grahm and includes many other well-known paragliding professionals. Ed Stein in Northern California has been flying the Advance Omega series for eight years and currently holds the Northern California distance record.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1997

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NEW HANG GLIDING/PARAGLIDING MAGAZINE EDITORIAL OFFICE ADDRESS AND PHONE

araglidingand Hang Gliding magazines have a new editorial address: 31441 Santa

Margarita Pkwy., Suite A-256, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688. The new phone numbers are (714) 888-7363 (phone), (714) 888-7464 (fax). The editor may always be contacted by e-mail at: GilDodgen@aol.com. Articles, letters to the editor, news items, etc., may be sent directly to the address listed ab_ove. Please contact USHGA Headquarters concerning advertising. 000$!&$$@$90@0@®0@$$009@@11il180@0@@10@9@@0@Gl4t@@GG>®€t$@G@OO@qit$@@

Advance gliders have placed first in the European Championships, Swiss League, Swiss X-C Cup, Criterium de Reunion, French Championships, Windcup Turkey, Swiss Cup and New Caledonian Open. Advance gliders include the Epsilon 2 (DHV 1/2), the Omega 4 competition glider (pictured), and the Bi-Beta tandem wing. Contact: Airtime of San Francisco, 3620 Wawona St., San Francisco, CA 94116 (415) 759-1177, fax (415) 7591182.

AIREA NOW IN THE USA

iREA's full product line from Germany is now being imported into the U.S. In less than two years AiREA has become the number-three European paraglider manufacturer with more than 1,000 gliders sold since the beginning of the year. Company founder Ernst Strobl is a former European champion and was a key player at UP in R&D and competition from 1990 until the end of 1995. The "Lift" is their basic intermediate wing, part of a new generation of gliders suitable for instruction through cross-

country flying. It demonstrates excellent performance for a glider in its class. The Lift is available in three sizes, covering pilot weight ranges of 45-120 kg. The "Aspect" is AiREA's best seller, and offers a great combination of performance, safety and ease of use in the AFNOR Stanclard/DHV 2 class. It has had great success in Europe and was rated the best intermediate glider by European publications in 1996. The "Tension" is the company's highperformance glider, rated ACPUL Performance and DHV 2/3. The German magazine Gleitshirm completed tests on the glider and reproduced the data advertised by AiREA exactly: 1.0 mis minimum sink and 50 km/h maximum flying speed. This makes the Tension a great cross-country performer. The "Fat Willie" tandem glider (pictured above) was introduced in Europe recently, and 200 were sold in the first six months. Chuck Smith, one of the most experienced tandem pilots in the U.S. comments, "It is a pleasure to thermal, with good feedback and control sensitivity. Security is great and the glider is highly predictable. I also really like hands-free Big Ears, a basic characteristic tandem gliders needed long ago. The B-line configuration is great too, with a very convenient pulley system. Overall, a real nice glider." The glider accommodates payloads up to 550 pounds and is rated DHV 1/2 and AFNOR Tandem. Contact: AiREA USA, 939 Lilac St., Longmont, CO 80501 (303) 651-9675, fax (303) 651-1750, xgirin@ecentral.com.

1998 WWNDSPORT CAILENDAR

his paragliding calendar is back by popular demand. Produced in Germany by Windsport, it is 12"xl6", spiral bound, and contains awesome color photos of free flying from around the world - great for every pilot's home or office. The price is $19.95 plus shipping. Contact: Airworks Paragliding (406) 543-2850, airworks@bigsky.net.

PARA.BORNE TO OlFFER MORE POWER FOR GLIDERS AND PARACHUTES esponding to America's thirst for more thrust, Paraborne Aviation is offering new propeller configurations for the Whisper paraglider motor, as well as a two-place powered parachute. The new 39" Whisper prop, designated CS, produces 10% more thrust or about 130 pounds, enough for light tandem flights. A larger 48" system is due by year's end and will retain the light 60-pound backpack weight. Either motor system will fit to the Sky Trike attachment. The idea to offer powered parachutes began as a training concept and grew into a distributorship for the BuckShot two-place craft. Retailing for $8,995, the dual-carb 2si engine turns a whopping 68" prop under a PD Windjammer or Sunriser canopy, with the biggest fuel capacity in the industry, 13.5 gallons. Training is offered year round in Orlando, Las Vegas and Phoenix. Dealer inquiries are invited. Contact: Paraborne Aviation l-888-636-9111.

KARW CASTLE JOINS THE EDEl TEAM

aving joined Laminar Hang Gliders, Women's World Champion Kari Castle was free to choose which type of paraglider would best suit her needs. Said Kari, "I'm very excited about flying the Edel product line because of its reputation and track record of being high quality, state-of-theart and, most of all, safe flying equipment. That's why I'm choosing to fly the Atlas at the moment. When I fly paragliders it's strictly for fun, and safety PARAGLIDING

is my number one priority so I don't have to worry about my equipment in the air. With the Atlas I have a DHV 1 glider that performs. What else do you need?" Edel President Mr. Suh and Edel USA president Greg Smith were delighted that Kari chose to align herself with the closeknit Edel family. While Kari's focus is certainly hang gliding, she is also an avid paraglider pilot with numerous outstanding paraglider flights to her credit. Stay tuned, Kari will certainly cake her exceptional cross-country hang gliding skills with her while flying her new Edel Atlas paraglider. She even schooled some World Cup pilots by arriving at

goal in the top five during the World Air Games on her Atlas.

!ED!EL IRESEIRV!E CHUTE CONSUMER ADVISORY egarding Firebird and Edel RSII Reserve Parachutes being used in their original front/side mounted configuration: RESERVES INSTALLED IN THE DORSAL (REAR) CONTAINER OF THE HARNESS ARE NOT AFFECTED BECAUSE THEY INCORPORATE A HANDLE THAT IS ATTACHED SEPARATELY AND PROVIDED WITH THE HARNESS. Having discovered some inadequate

sewing between the reserve handle and the deployment bag, the DHV and Firebird Germany recommend the following safety measures: 1) the sewing chat attaches the reserve handle to the deployment bag, at the deployment bag, should be inspected; 2) handles found to have inadequate sewing should be replaced. Edel USA has decided to apply these measures to the Edel RSII reserve parachutes as a precautionary measure. We would also like to remind you to inspect the closing loop of your reserve container to make sure that it is in good condition. Please have your dealer inspect your Continued on page 41.

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In consideration of being granted membership in the USHGA, I, _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ for myself, my personal representatives, heirs, executors, next of kin, spouse and assigns, do agree as follows: A. DEFINITIONS ~ The following definitions apply to terms used in this Agreement: I. "PARTICIPATION IN THE SPORT means launching (and/or assisting another in launching), flying (whether as pilot in command or otherwise) and/or landing (including, but not limited to, crashing) a hang glider or paraglider. 2. "HY SPORTS INJURIES' means my personal injury, my bodily injury, my death, my property damage and/or any other personal or financial injury sustained by me as a result of my PAR1ICIPATION IN THE SPORTand/or as a result of the administration of any USHGA programs (for example: the Pilot Proficiency System). 3. "RELEASED PARTIES' means the following, including their owners, officers, directors, agents, spouses, employees, officials (elected or otherwise), members, contractors, sub-contractors, lessors and lessees: a) The United States Hang Gliding Association, a California Non-profit Corporation (USHGA); b) Each of the person( s) sponsoring and/or participating in the administration of my proficiency rating( s); c) Each of the hang gliding and/or paragliding organizations which are chapters of the USHGA; d) The United States Of America and each of the city(ies), town(s), county(ies), State(s) and/or other political subdivisions or governmental agencies within whose jurisdictions I launch, fly and/or land; e) Each of the property owners on or over whose property I may launch, fly and/or land; ~ All persons involved, in any manner, in the sports of hang gliding and/or paragliding at the site(s) where I PARTICIPATE IN THE SPORT. AII persons involved include, but are not limited to, spectators, hang glider and/or paraglider pilots, assistants, drivers, instructors, observers, and owners of hang gliding and/or paragliding equipment; and g) All other persons lawfully present at the site(s) during my PARTICIPATION IN THE SPORT. B. I RELEASE, WAIVE AND DISCHARGE the RELEASED PARTIES from any and all claims and liability for HY SPORTS INJURIES, however caused, even if caused by the negligence (whether active or passive) of any of the RELEASED PARTIES, to the fullest extent allowed by law. C. I Will NOT SUE OR MAKE A CLAIM against any of the RELEASED PARTIESfor loss or damage on account of HY SPORTS INJURIES. If I violate this agreement by filing such a suit or making such a claim, I will pay all attorneys' fees and costs of the RELEASED PARTIES. D. I AGREE THAT this AGREEMENT shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California. All disputes and matters whatsoever arising under, in connection with or incident to this Agreement shall be litigated, if at ali, in and before a Court located in the State of California, U.S.A. to the exclusion of the Courts of any other State or Country. E. SEVERABUUTY. If any part, article, paragraph, sentence or clause of this Agreement is not enforceable, the affected provision shall be curtailed and limited only to the extent necessary to bring it within the requirements of the law, and the remainder of the Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. 11

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02te MR-8/97

How Our \\?ings Work - Part II

Stalls And Spins © 1997 by Dennis Pagen -------------~------------------< n Part I we plunged headlong into a discussion of how a paraglider, with its soft, open airfoil, acts like a proper little wing. We found out that all the rules that have been worked out for "real" airplanes - the heavy iron - also apply to us. But we did point out that our unconventional shape and rigging results in some unusual flying characteristics. Not the least of these are potential collapses, as discussed last month. This time we'll learn more about our gliders' flying behavior by investigating stalls and spins. These matters are of extreme importance to all pilots, of course, for besides massive collapses, stalls and spins represent the greatest danger to paraglider pilots. Knowing how to forestall stalls is essential to flying safety.

suspended directly under this upward force. When a stall occurs and the flow is disrupted, this balance goes awry because the glider is descending more vertically and is acting mainly as a big bag of drag. The center of drag is roughly in the center of our wing as shown in the right of Figure 2. Essentially, the total upward force moves backwards and becomes all drag rather than lift and drag. As a result, our weight is pulling down in front of this upward force which rotates the nose down as shown. The stall and recovery described above is a classic stall typical of almost all aircraft. Now we modify it a bit for paraglider peculiarities.

WHAT IS A STALL

PARAGUDER STALLS

In Part I we looked at the smooth flow of air over our wing's surface. This flow was seen to change behavior as our wing changed its tilt or angle of attack with respect to the incoming air. In fact, the air undergoes more deflection the greater the angle of attack becomes, as Figure l shows. If we keep increasing the angle of attack, at some point the air can no longer make the great change in direction the wing demands of it and it separates from the top surface. The air molecules behave like Charlie Chaplin running around a corner and hopping to one side in a comical demonstration of momentum. As the Figure shows (bottom), when the wing stalls and flow separates from the wing surface, the air loses its smooth pattern and drag increases. As a result, the wing slows and the angle of attack gets even higher, worsening the stall and destroying lift. If we do nothing to recover from a mild stall except let off the brakes, chances are a modern glider will recover. It does this by lowering its nose. Why does it react in this manner? Look at the left drawing of Figure 2. Here we have shown the total uplifting force on the wing. As we learned in Part I, this force is located toward the front of the wing because that is where most of the lift and drag is produced. Thus, to be in balance, our body's center of gravity needs to be

Because we are dangling below our canopy like soap on a rope, there are dynamic effects that occur with our body and wing that don't happen with most airplanes. For example, we have great pendulum stability. This means our body wants to stay at the bottom of its pendular well and keep the canopy at one angle of attack (for the most part). In fact, if we don't use a speed stirrup or riser "trimmers" we don't actually change angle of attack by raising or lowering the nose as do all other winged aircraft and birds. What we do is apply brakes, which slows the wing until its horizontal speed is reduced too much for its vertical speed, which causes a high angle of attack and a stall. Another minor point of difference is the fact that our airfoils, with their steep curve up front and their long, flat shape in the rearward portion, may cause the separation and stall to occur up front first. The result is more of a frontal collapse and abruptness to the stall.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

DYNAMIC STALLS We mentioned above that our body tends to keep the wing stable in pitch. This is only true in steady flight as any pilot who has stepped into the variable void of air

1997

Figure 1: Aiiflow over airfoil at increasing angle ofattack.

Noso down

Pila! center

of gravity__...-

Total upward forco and pilot weight are not lined up so the glider tends to nose down,

Total upward force and pilot wolght aru lined up in steady flight

'--------------------·Figure 2: Nose-down effect ofa stall. Wing stalls at a high attitude.

II/ -~',,,

---

Pilot trajectory_>-..... - - _ _ - Fastmght

--·-------------------~

Figure 3: Dynamic stall. knows. Our body tends to swing forward when the canopy is slowed abruptly, and then pulls the canopy forward in a surge. Part of active piloting means preventing these pitch oscillations by applying timely, adequate brake control. Now imagine what would happen if you

were flying fast - brakes off - and quick-ly hit full brakes. The canopy would slow suddenly while you would go zooming forward on a ballistic trajectory described in your dusty old physics book The result is shown in Figure 3. Here we see that your body swinging forward pulls your canopy into a higher attitude (nose up position) than is possible in mere steady flight. If a stall occurs in this situation, it will be severe, for the nose must be lowered much more than with the regular stall described before. This is a dynamic stall. It should be dear that a regular stall and a dynamic stall are only differentiated by degree. If you stall very gradually you have the former, while an abrupt, hard braking, especially if you carrying excess speed, will produce the dynamic stall. A serious dynamic stall is more dangerous, of course, because as the canopy stalls it drags behind you even more. Then you stop and swing back as the canopy surges forward. A massive frontal deflation and possibly a canopy below your feet is the usual result.

DEEP STALLS The third type of stall we'll investigate is what is known as a deep stall (parachutage in French, or steady stall in classical aerodynamics parlance). We can easily understand what happens here if we look again at the right side of Figure 2. Here we see a glider descending almost vertically. The force on the wing is simply due to drag - it is acting like a flat surface being pulled downward with a 90° angle of attack. The total upward force is in the center of the wing area as shown. Now imagine that your body is directly under this upward force so no nose-down tendency of the wing occurs. You would have a continuous vertical descent. This is a deep stall, and as you know, the process is stable and you come down faster than you would care to land because no lift is being generated, and as a pure drag device, the wing is too small to repeal the law of gravity. How can your body be directly under the upward force? If you stop all the wing's forward progress it is possible to have the canopy placed just right so that the forces line up. This can happen in the recovery of a normal stall, upon release from tow or upon the too-slow release of a B-line collapse.

STALL RECOVERIES It is beyond the scope of this article to detail the recovery techniques for the various stalls. However, with our understanding of stalls we can see some possible strategies. A regular stall will generally recover by itself with a release of the brakes. However, it may be necessary to catch the surge and possible collapse as soon as the canopy picks up speed. Likewise, a dynamic stall requires a careful reapplication of brakes as the canopy surges. In films portraying dynamic stalls it is easy to see that timing is everything. Without brakes a severe surge will occur. But hitting the brakes too late can cause an equally undesirable backward surge. Certainly the best defense against dynamic stalls is to prevent them by watching the canopy to keep it above you and avoiding over-exuberant brake tugging when you are flying fast. Finally, the grip of a deep stall must be broken by moving the canopy horizontally. You can best do this with a quick pull and release of the brakes in order to get it to surge. Alternatively, you can give the A-risers a quick push and release, again trying to break down the steady flow around the wing that keeps it in stable descent.

Stalled

area

Figu.re 4: Forward spin.

WHAT IS A SPIN? Perhaps one of the more exciting and dangerous things our wings can do is spin. The word is well understood to mean a fast turning, and that's exactly what a spinning wing does. A spin occurs when a wing stalls on one side only. The wing on the stalled side usually drops down a bit and falls back because it has less lift and more drag than the opposite side. The side of the wing that is still flying fine begins to rotate around the stalled tip, sometimes very rapidly. At this point centrifugal force effects set in and a stable auto-rotation occurs as shown in Figure 4. A spin is one of the deadlier events in all aviation because it is very disorienting and often happens close to the ground when airplanes are talcing off or la11ding. Fortunately, in paragliding, spins don't occur often and when they do they aren't necessarily in low-level operations. But paraglider spins can be disorienting because of the high rate of turn and unusual feel in the controls. They can also be deadly because of the high rate of descent. You can prevent a spin simply by avoid-

Figure 5:Reverse spin. ing a stall in a turn. Turbulence can also stall a wing and cause a spin, but this event can only be averted by avoiding aggressive thermals. A reverse spin can also occur in a paraglider. In this, it is unique to the world of aviation. That's because it is the only wing we know of that is made straight (no sweep) without a vertical or horirontal tail. A reverse spin occurs when the wing is moving backwards after a surge or deep stall and one side stalls. The spin takes place very much like a forward spin, but the front of the wing on one side is stalled, and the pilot is turning backwards. If you can believe that forward spins are disorient-

Continued on page 46. PARAGLIDING

THE

1997

WORLD

PARAGLIDING

CHA

Whos The

Best Pilot? by Paul Klemond, US. Team Leader

Whos the best pilot in the world? Striving for that title, seven Americans joined 115 other pilots from 35 countries who gathered in Spain this past July for the World Paragliding Championship. This years Worlds (for short) were held in Castejon de Sos (pronounced Cast-a-hone duh Sose), a small town in Spains central Pyrenees mountains near the border with France. Among paraglider and hang glider pilots Castejon is famous for its rugged, treeless mountains and strong thermals. RIGHT Scenesfrom the 1997 World Championship. Photos by Ulrich Grill.

US. Paragliding World Team (clockwise from Left): Mary Anne Karren, Todd Bibler, Dave Bridges, josh Cohn, Paul KLemond, Othar Lawrence, BiLL Belcourt, Lizzy Opitz. Photo by Paul Klemond.

PARAGLIDING

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The seven pilots who made the U.S. team all qualified by accumulating the most points in the competitions sanctioned by USHGA and held during the 1995 and 1996 seasons, the two years preceding the 1997 World Championship. I've given up on ever being a competition pilot, but I jumped at the chance when Ed Pitman told me the team was looking for a leader. The team welcomed me, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. Not only are these pilots amazingly skilled aviators, they are eager to share their knowledge and are way fun to hang out with. As with competitions in other forms of aviation, the "best" paraglider pilot is the one who races the fastest around a long course. Over a 13-day period competitors flew eight tasks, each of which was a race around a different set of turnpoints forming a course with an average distance of about 50 miles. That's a lot of miles in a paraglider!

SPECTACULAR-AND HAZARDOUS The start of each task was a truly spectacular event. Several acres of the launch slope were covered with wings, pilots and gear. An ambulance siren sounded to officially open the "launch window," and within moments the first gliders pulled up and were off In less than five minutes most of the field of 181 gliders launched. It was dizzying! As I helped Lizzy Opitz prepare to launch before one task, a yell caused me to look up in time to see a very banked glider low and coming our way. I knew it would miss us, but then I noticed the pilot might not! Lizzy and I ducked. I felt the wake as the pilot whizzed by just over our heads, then heard and felt the earth beneath my feet "thump" as the pilot cratered-in about eight feet from where we stood! The unlucky pilot from the Japanese team had taken a deflation and crashed, knocking the wind out of him. I tried to calm him and keep his helmet on until medical help arrived, but the Japanese team leader arrived first and tore the helmet off- pretty ignorant I thought. Everything turned out all right, but from that day on we all had to keep our "heads up" on launch! Many pilots launched above us on the shallow slope, and came skimming through just one or two meters above the ground. Once launched, the pilots would all glide toward one of two nearby spines where thermals lurked. Thermals are invisible, but when more than 100 gliders work the same

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

thermal, an amazing, swirling, colorful picture of it emerges. Once high, pilots must hang out or seek an advantageous position to be in when the start tarp opens, beginning the race. The tasks were tough, chosen by a group of three elected competitors to be so challenging that most pilots wouldn't reach goal: On average, only 37 out of 181 competitors (that's 20%) reached goal during each task. The winners were in the air for an average of more than three hours during each task, and these were the first to land at goal. On most days at least one pilot descended under a reserve parachute. During one especially difficult task five of these worldclass pilots threw their reserve parachutes, including former U.S. Champion Dave Bridges. (He landed unharmed.) As though that weren't enough for one task, two more pilots crashed on mounrainsides, including one former World Champion. There were no fatalities, but several serious injuries, the worst of which was a Taiwanese woman who is paralyzed. Serious injuries are a very unfortunate element that seems inherent in paragliding competition.

AND THE WINNER IS? So, who is the best pilot in the world? Britain's John Pendry is the new World Champion, beating Austria's Christian Tamegger by a mere 20 points, 7,582 to 7,562. That's a margin of0.3%, kind oflike the Lakers beating the Knicks 100.3 to 100. Even though it was a race, consistency mattered much more than being first: Tamegger took second overall but won only one task. Pend1y took first and didn't win any tasks! Both of them won by consistently reaching goal task after task. How did the U.S. team do? By any measure, amazingly well: • Overall, the U.S. team finished in sixth place out of 36 countries competing. • Three U.S. pilots received awards for finishing in the top 30. • For the first time in history, a U.S. pilot (Josh Cohn) took first place in a task. • Of the 172 pilots flying the last task, only 11 % (20 pilots) reached goal. Of these, four were U.S. pilots. (Todd Bibler 3rd, Othar Lawrence 6th, Dave Bridges 15th, and Josh Cohn 18th.) Safety: U.S. pilots suffered no flying-related injuries. 0

1997

THE

RIGHT: Sandie Cochepain, France, Womens World Paragliding Champion! Photo by Ulrich Grill.

Josh Cohn returns to earth. Photo by Paul Klemond.

WOMEN'S REsULTS

Rank

Pilot

Country

Points

Sandie Cochepain

France

Claire Bernier

France

Louise Crandal

Denmark

5046 4887 3551

Lizzy Opitz

USA

Mary Anne Karren

USA

It's been said chat when it comes to paragliding, the U.S. was viewed as a thirdworld country. & of chis competition chat seems no longer to be true. (The U.S. didn't even send a team to the previous World Championship in 1995, and sent a threepilot team to the 1993 Worlds.) The intensity of this competition was evident not only in the close scores and many reserve rides, but also in the highly specialized flying gear the competitors used. It seemed like every component had been specialized or modified to reduce wind resistance and eke out chat extra bit of speed and glide that would bring a competitor to goal a few meters ahead of the next pilot: • High-aspect-ratio "twitchy" competition paragliders rated DHV-3, or AFNOR Competition, or uncertified prororypes. • Diagonal "ribs" (fabric panels) between the glider's cell walls, allowing the use of fewer lines. (The Firebird Cult, for instance, has only two lower A-lines on each side!) • "Skinny" lines of unsheathed kevlar looks and feels like dental floss. • Risers half the normal breadth, or replaced entirely with thin steel cable. • Flat, supine racing harnesses in which the pilot flies lying on his back. • Heavy ballast bags full of water, ro make the glider fly faster. • "Speed-arms" - lycra half-shirts chat tightly cover sleeves and shoulders. • Helmets pointed at the rear for smoother airflow and less drag. • Fashionable, tightly curved sunglasses, for lower wind resistance I'm sure! However, it's worth weighing the risks before you trade in your normal gear for chis stuff and aim ro become a serious competition pilot. It's very unusual to find a pilot at chis level of competition who hasn't been injured or had a reserve deployment or two. Excluding visiting foreign pilots, three of the

2156 1415

five U.S. pilots killed while paragliding in the U.S. in the past 18 months were flying high-performance DHV-3 gliders. Two of the seven U.S. team pilots have been seriously injured in the U.S. after their return from the Worlds in July (one while competing, one not). There are lots of factors in most accidents, bur it's probably safe to conclude chat competition gear and competitive pressure increase the level of risk in paragliding. Admiring the incredible talents of competition pilots does not require emulating them.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION It's easy to confuse the World Championship with the PWC, or "Paragliding World Cup." The latter is a series of half a dozen meets held every year in places all around the world, governed by the PWC Congress. The World Championship, on the other hand, is held every two years (during odd-numbered years), with a Pre-Worlds practice meet during intervening years at the site of the following year's meet. The Worlds (short for the World Championship) are governed by the FAI (Federation Aeronautique Internationale) which also oversees other activities (such as world records verification) for paragliding and all other kinds of aviation. Many pilots (including a few U.S. pilots) compete in both the PWC and World Championship. To compete in the World Championship a pilot must qualify for his or her nation's official team. Each country sends a team of its top-ranked pilots. This year the teams were allowed seven pilots at most, no more than five of whom could be of the same gender. Here in the U.S. rankings are compiled from the results of all the USHGA-approved competitions held during the previous two years (the 1995 and 1996 seasons in chis case). The next Pre-Worlds will be held in Pinzgau, Austria next spring, May 30 to June Continued on page 28.

USHGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGION 1 Bill Bolosky (R) 24622 SE Mirrormont Dr Issaquah WA 98027 (425) 557-7981 bolosky@microsoft.com George Sturtevant (R) 502 Ogle Ave NE North Bend WA 98045 (206) 888-3856 georges@nwlink.com Bob Hannah (H) 9920 51 st Ave S Seattle WA 98118 (206) 328-1104 paraskr@aol.com Gene Matthews (H) 15308 111th Ave NE Bothell WA 98011 (206) 488-1443 skydog@gte.net Claudia Stockwell (L) Fred Stockwell (H) 8901 Rogue River Hwy Grant's Pass OR 97527 (541) 582-1467

REGION 2

Luen Miller (HG Accident Chair) 316 Berkeley Way Santa Cruz CA 95062 (408) 423-9919 lumiller@pacbell.net

REGION 3 Ken Baier (R} 253 Rodney Ave Encinitas CA 92024 (619) 753-2664 ai rj un kies@world net. att. net Joe Greblo (R} 16145 Victory Blvd Van Nuys CA 91406 (818) 353-5580 windsports@earthlink.com Gregg Lawless (R} 9127 Bittercreek Ln San Diego CA 92129 (619) 484-2056 Sandy King (H} 360 Travelodge El Cajon CA 92020 (619) 444-8956 slark@worldnet.att.net Mike Meier (H} 500 Blueridge Ave Orange CA 92665 (714) 998-6359 mike@willswing.com

Ray Leonard (R) 3650 Research Wy #22 Carson City NV 89706 (702) 883-7070 advspts@pyramid.net

Rob Kells (H) 500 Blueridge Ave Orange CA 92665 (714) 998-6359 rob@willswing.com

Russ Locke (R} 868 S Mary Ave Sunnyvale CA 94087 (408) 737-8745 rsslok@aol.com

Alan Chuculate (H) PO Box 13451 La Jolla CA 92039 (619) 687-8993

Paul Gazis (R) 428 Madera Ave Apt 1 Sunnyvale CA 94086 (408) 736-0764 gazis@arwen.arc.nasa.gov

Gil Dodgen (Editor) 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy Ste A-256 Rancho Santa Margarita CA 92688 (714) 888-7463 gildodgen@aol.com

Ken Brown (H) 3620 Wawona San Francisco CA 94116 kennyb2u@aol.com Ed Pitman (H) PO Box 188 Shasta CA 96087 (916) 359-2392 epitman@c-zone.net

REGION 4 Mark Ferguson (R) 6595 Odell Pl Ste C Boulder CO 80301 (303) 652-3496 mark@ballvarios.com Jim Zeiset (R) 13154 County Rd 140 Salida CO 81201 (719) 539-3335 jimzgreen@aol.com

Jan Ala (H) 938 N Olsen Tucson AZ 85719 (520) 327-97 41

Matt Taber (R) RR 2 Box 215H Rising Fawn GA 30738 (706) 398-3433 hanglide@chatt.net

REGION 5 Frank Gillette (R) Rt 1 Watercyn 8 Declo ID 83323 (208) 654-2615 Watercyn@cyberhighway.net

Barbara Flynn (H} 705 E Marks St Orlando FL 32803 (407) 894-5715 skygods@ix.netcom.com

Tracie Fifer-Welch (H) PO Box 8225 Jackson WY 83001 (307) 733-5835 di_wyo@compuserve.com

Gregg McNamee (H) 14141 SE 51st Ave Summerfield FL 34491 (352) 245-8263 graybird@praxis.net

REGION 6

Greg De Wolf (H) PO Box 607 Corolla NC 27927 (919) 453-4800 DeWolf7@aol.com

Ron Kenney (R) PO Box 356 Leoti KS 67861 (316) 37 5-2995 kenney@elkhart.com

REGION 11

REGION 1 Bill Bryden (R) 6608 North 100 East Rd Seymour IN 47274 (812) 497-2327 bbryden@hsonline.net

Jeff Hunt (R} 4811 Red River Austin TX 78751 (512) 467-2529 RRAJeff@aol.com

Dan Johnson (L) 8 Dorset St St Paul MN 55118 (612) 450-0930 CumulusMan@aol.com

Paul Voight (R} 5163 Searsville Rd Pine Bush NY 12566 (914) 744-3317 ryanv1 OO@aol.com

REGION 8 Randy Adams (R) PO Box 369 Claremont NH 03743 (603) 543-1760 bkramer@lucent.com

Jan Johnson (L) 585 E Frank Applegate Jackson NJ 08527 (908) 928-8370

REGION 9 Pete Lehmann (R} 5811 Elgin St Pittsburgh PA 15206 (412) 661-3474 104410.1150@compuserve.com Geoffrey Mumford (R) 750 First St NE Washington DC 20002 (202) 336-6067 gkrn.apa@email.apa.org Dennis Pagen (L) 368 Dunkle Rd Bellefonte PA 16823 (814) 383-2569 Chris DuPaul (H) PO Box 801 Gloucester Pt VA 23062 (804) 693-6742 Art Greenfield (X) 1815 N Ft Meyer Dr Ste 700 Arlington VA 22209 (703) 527-0226 NAA@ids2.idsonline.com REGION 10 G.W. Meadows (R) 109 Carlow Ave Kill Devil Hills NC 27948 (919) 480-3552 justfly@interpath.com

REGION 12

Paul Rikert (L} 101 N Broadway # 28-3 White Plains NY 10603 (914) 946-9386 Lars Linde (H) (PG Accident Chair) 954 W Front St Red Bank NJ 07701 (908) 74 7-7845 larslinde@compuserve.com REGION 13 (lnt'I) Jan Johnson (L) See Region 12 Michael Robertson (H) RR 5 865 Con 7 Claremont Ontario Canada L 1Y 1A2 (905) 294-2536 flyhigh@inforamp.net USHGA Executive Director Philip Bachman PO Box 1330 Colorado Springs CO 80901 (719) 632-8300 ushga@ushga.org

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President-Bill Bryden Vice President-Randy Adams Secretary-Russ Locke Treasurer-Dan Johnson

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WORLD'S RIGHT: john Pendry, Great Britain, World Paragliding Champion! Photo by Ulrich Grill.

ABOVE & BELOW: John Pendry in flight. Photos by Ulrich Grill.

INDMDUAL PILOT RESULTS Rank

Pilot

Country

Points

John Pendry

U .K.

7582

1997 U.S. PARAGLIDING

Christian T amegger

Austria

7562

TEAM PILOTS

Jimmy Pacher

Italy

7527

Pilot ................... Wing

Todd Bibler

USA

6441

Bill Belcourt ... .. . . Firebird Cult

Peter Luthi

Switzerland

6441

Todd Bibler .. . Edel Sector "V-rib"

Josh Cohn

USA

6046

Dave Bridges . . Edel Sector "V-rib"

Dave Bridges

USA

5856

Josh Cohn ...... Pro-Design Max

Othar Lawrence

USA

4621

Mary Anne Karren .. . . Edel Saber

111

Bill Belcourt

USA

2563

Othar Lawrence .. . . Firebird Cult

127

Lizzy Opitz

USA

2156

Lizzy Opitz ...... ... . UP Escape

152

Mary Anne Karren

USA

1415

Continued from page 25.

9, 1998. The next World Championship will be held there in the summer of 1999. Qualification for the 1999 U.S. team will be based on pilot competition results from all USHGA-sanctioned meets held during the 1997 and 1998 seasons, including the 1997 U.S . National Championship that was held August 16-23 this past summer at King Mountain, Idaho. The USHGA Competition Committee will listen to proposals and sanction 1998 season competitions during the November Board of Directors meeting.

VISIT THE WEBSITE For complete scores, ream info and lots of photos from the competition, check out the U.S. team's official site on the Imerner's World Wide Web. See http:! /www.kurious.org. THANKS! The U.S. ream would like to express great appreciation to pilots and businesses in the U.S. paragliding community for your amazing support. By purchasing T-shirts, attending the Aspen fund-raiser and buying raffle rickets, you enabled the best U.S . pilots to attend and compete and do so well. Thank you! Chris Santacroce deserves special mention for putting in an amazing amount of time and swear organizing a fund-raising event for the team during the Aspen SuperClinic in June. Greg Smith and Edel USA also really EMBER

1997

came through to make this event a success! The following businesses, clubs and individuals gave generously to the U.S. team: Apco/Aerolight USA Aspen Paragliding Club Ball Varios Cascade Paragliding Club of Portland, Oregon Robin Cohn Joe Gluzinski/Air America Paragliding Lars Linde/Nocai Helmets Northwest Paragliding Club of Seattle, Washington Steve Roti John Yates/Pro-Design I personally would like to thank Ed Pitman and Lee Kaiser for sharing with me some insights from their experiences flying as a team and competing in earlier international competitions. Last, the team would like to thank USHGA. Phil Bachman made a special trip to Aspen to speak at the Aspen fund-raiser. Less visible but of great importance was the behind-the-scenes support of Greg Huller and Karen Simon. You are very much "part of the team." About the Author: Paul Klemond is a tandem instructor and mountain pilot living in Seattle, Washington . E-mail him at paul@kurious.org. •

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AME

all it blatant nationalism, call it American pride, call it whatever you want, but this is the truth: For the first time in American paragliding history an American actually won the U.S . Nationals. While the President hasn't made a congratulatory call to Othar Lawrence yet, we're sure it will come soon. Robbie Whittal of Sun Valley, Idaho (actually England by way of Germany) did well too, finishing second despite having an unfair advantage over the competition-wing pilots by flying a completely stock, intermediate Firebird Flame, a DHV 2 glider. The site for the '97 U.S. Nationals was King Mountain, Idaho. King Mountain is a drive-up site about 10 miles north of Arco, population less than 1,000. While previous U.S. Nationals have been held in the resort towns of Aspen or Chelan, King Mountain

offered primarily inspiring flying and competitive sessions on the pool table at the Sawtooth C lub. Accommodations were cheap, the food large and thermals strong. So what if you can't get a micro-brew beer anywhere in town when Bud drafts are a dollar? Before the first competitor even arrived in Arco there was trouble brewing. The '97 Hang Gliding Nationals had been held at King, and they had been controversial. One pilot died, and several had traumatic incidents. There was some vocal criticism of the meet organizer, G.W Meadows, who was to be our meet organizer despite never having run a paragliding competition. With the skeptics predicting disaster from the strong conditions and the optimists predicting incredible fl ying, the meet could have gone either way. King Mountain marks the southern end

of the 75-mile-long Lost River Range, which overlooks the Lost River Valley. Flights from King generally follow the range either north or south depending on the wind, with plenty of LZ's in the basically treeless valley. Many of the pilots commented that it looked a bit like a friendlier Owens Valley, but with more organized air. There's one main road following the Range, which means landing too far from that road can result in an aerobic event. Fortunately, sinking out is a relatively rare problem with the exception of a big transition 20 miles south of launch, Pass Creek Road. Eve1y task called crossed the Pass Creek gap, so every pilot had an opportunity to fully enjoy the experience. Part of the King experience was the locals; the towns of Arco and Moore have fully embraced flying as an economic boon,

PARAGLIDING

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE: Scenes from launch and in the air over King Mountain, Idaho. Photos by Jeff Diener.

bur che locals are also very friendly on their own. On the first practice day I noticed new sprinklers set up in the LZ to grow grass, a definite bonus because there's not enough natural grass in the entire Lost River Valley to have a good football game on. The water for the grass was coming from a local rancher, J.D. Schwartz, who was donating it from his ranch irrigation system. This is in a state where water arguments are sometimes settled wichour bothering the courts. J.D. came out to check out all the pilots landing on the new grass LZ, and I ended up taking him on an evening tandem ride out over the valley. Observing his excitement and enthusiasm for flying set the tone for the entire comp for me, and I chink che attitudes of the locals rubbed off on everyone. The Arco Sawtooth Club was soon packed every NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

evening by locals and paraglider pilots, wich only occasional friction over exactly whose turn it was on the pool table. The first day of actual competition was one of che best flying days many pilots had experienced at King, wich a fast ridge run south to Arco, chen back up che range to land at the Mackay Airport. Climb rates frequently approached 2,000 fpm, wich some associated turbulence. Walter Nesser of South Africa won the day by 30 seconds, followed closely by Othar Lawrence and half the field over che next hour. Richard Gallon of France, winner of che '95 Nationals, started a bad personal trend by landing within easy helmet-chucking distance of the goal line, but since most of che pilots in the field made goal chere was plenry of celebration at che Sawtooth. The winds for day two were forecast to

1997

be ridiculously high, which the clouds confirmed. However, most pilots still snuck in some good practice flying, wich much looping and ocher aerobatic activity. Gallon pulled off che cleanest loops, which amazed many American pilots who had not seen the maneuver before. Several hang pilots on launch, including G.W Meadows, the meet organizer, upped cheir assessment of paragliding substantially. One pilot decided to do a quick check of the high-altitude winds and went for a rotor excursion over the top of King Mountain, but he returned unscached if substantially more humble that evening after a nice walk. Day three was basically like day two, but wich one reserve deployment by a Japanese pilot unable to escape a stable spiral. There was some radio and language confusion

Continued on page 36.

1997 USH GA Regional Director Election Use the ballot attached to this issue of the magazine. REGION I Steve Roti- Nominee We who live and fly in the northwest corner of the U.S. are fortunate to have a strong community of hang glider and paraglider pilots who work together to make flying better for everyone. This is reflected in our clubs which meet regularly, publish newsletters, put on flying events, and provide a variety of informal services such as mentoring new pilots and introducing them to flying sites in a supportive environment. When I started paragliding in 1991, I was quite impressed with the support I got from more experienced pilots in the local clubs, and my interest in helping new pilots in subsequent years grew out of that experience. I've served as a paragliding Observer for a number of years, and more recently as a paragliding Examiner. If elected as Region 1 Director, I pledge to support the clubs in their efforts because they are our greatest resource. But there are other resources too: our flying sites. A sign of the superb flying opportunities here is that the hang gliding and paragliding National Championships have been held in Region 1 numerous times during the 1990's. The two areas that have hosted the nationals - Chelan, Washington and Lakeview, Oregon offer everything a pilot could want, from big cross-country conditions to dreamlike evening glass-offs. Both host communities are supportive of foot-launched aviation and have worked with pilots in the development of flying sites. I believe that we should learn from these examples and work together to find new flying sites. I've been involved in site development in Oregon and Washington, notably Mt. Bachelor near Bend and the Toutle River Valley near Mount St. Helens. I helped initiate a site liaison program in Oregon so that pilots have a single point of contact when they have questions about a fly-

ing site, and so that any problems that come up can be resolved by someone who is knowledgeable about the history of the site. As Regional Director, I will support local pilots and clubs in their site-development efforts. Another major area of interest of mine is publications. In addition to serving as contributing editor for Paragliding magazine, I've worked professionally in writing/editing positions for a variety of national computer magazines. As Regional Director, I will work for continued improvement in our USHGA magazmes. Beyond that, I pledge to travel around Region 1 (with glider, of course) and listen to the concerns of the pilots I meet. I will do my best to represent your interests at the national level on the USHGA Board of Directors, and I will disseminate information back to the pilot community in a timely manner. I believe that the USHGA is our organization, it belongs to the pilot membership that makes it up, and we get out of it what we are willing to pur in. I'll work to keep the USHGA responsive to pilots' needs, and I ask for your support in that endeavor.

REGION II Russ Locke -

Incumbent

REGION III Tammy Burcar -

Nominee Hi, my name is Tammy Burcar. I own, operate and provide personal instruction for Fly Away Flight School in Santa Barbara, CA, which boasts a perfect safety record. I've been flying hang gliders for 13 years, have a Master and Tandem Instructor rating and have been a USHGA-certified instructor for eight years. I've competed in many national and international cross-country and freestyle competitions, was the '95 National Women's Champion and just took second in the Masters of Freestyle

Competition in September 1997. I have a private pilot's license, but we all know that foot-launched, motorless flight is the only way to fly. I've committed myself to a life-long love affair with free flight and am looking forward to representing my fellow USHGA members. My experience with the many clubs, schools and pilot communities that I have been associated with in the past 13 years, combined with a youthful enthusiasm for flying, has given me the knowledge required for this position. After graduating from college in Wisconsin, I began teaching hang gliding for some of the most prestigious schools in the world. As the current President of the Santa Barbara Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association I organized the effort to reopen our flying sites. My most recent work within this political realm has finetuned my diplomatic abilities toward our common goal of appropriating and preserving our precious flying sites. I discovered first hand how powerful our collective strengths are when hang gliding and paragliding pilots stand together. United we fly, divided we don't stand a chance. My ability to facilitate cooperation and consensus among local community and special-interest groups via committees and hard work has given me a solid foundation that will allow me to serve and represent you on the regional and national level. I believe that the future of free flight is bright and I want to be a part of the creative process needed to make it even brighter through the efforts of myself and others involved in promoting footlaunched flight with the media. An educated public, through positive media coverage, is crucial for our membership. My visions of the future of free flight include: 1) multiplying the USHGA membership; 2) doubling the percentage of female participants; 3) acquiring and preserving flying sites; 4) a progressively more cooperative attitude among hang gliding and paragliding pilots; 5) increasing positive media coverage and hence improving the public image of free flight; 6) More Flying and More Fun. I plan to accomplish these goals by: 1) listening to all USHGA members' concerns (particularly all Region III mem-

Continued on page 39. PARAGLIDING

BO CRISS DESIGN

1997

IAWRINCE Continued from page 33. over whether or not he was injured, so Mike Foster, one of the lessexperienced but confident pilots, side-hilled beside him. The pilot was fine in the end, but the meet's scorekeeper, Jeff Meyers, launched his hang glider after the winds had picked up, only to crash violently into the hillside beside launch. A rescue was initiated and Meyers survived for a few days in the hospital before massive head injuries killed him. A collection at the next day's task meeting raised some photo by Ulrich Grill significant money for his wife. Day four's conditions were excellent, which resulted in fast 40-mile race to Double Springs, which Chris Muller of Canada, who had won the '96 U.S. Nationals, won. Unfortunately, Muller had gone exploring on day one and failed to make goal, so he was out of contention for the overall meet. Othar again piloted his Firebird to second, with Rob Whittal somehow flying his slower intermediate glider to third. A full 35 pilots eventually made goal, some arriving over two hours after Muller, but arriving. Richard Gallon flew fast and well, but again landed close enough to goal to walk to it. Day five was blown out, with most pilots visiting Craters of the Moon

where NASA had used the barren terrain to train astronauts. That evening a large number of pilots flew, but got stuck in a nice wave and had an exciting time getting down before dark. Day six looked epic, but stronger winds were forecast for the afternoon, so a relatively short 34mile out-and-back task was called. Strong south valley winds turned on, which meant a long battle back from the turnpoint north of launch. Walter Nesser surfed the rotors with more style than anyone else to win, followed closely by Bernard Winkleman and Whittal, who somehow flew upwind on his intermediate better than almost all the comp-wing equipped pilots for third. Most pilots managed to cross Pass Creek twice, but were dined shortly after in the lee of the infamous Elbow. Walking out to a road was often the secondary task for the day, but it was a nice day for a good walk. Day Seven almost wasn't. Due to some scheduling confusion it was uncertain if it was a valid task day. The final task of the '94 Nationals had been canceled when Lee Kaiser (who has also effectively protested and canceled several other epic tasks) had it invalidated due to arcane but self-beneficial rules interpretations. With that precedent in mind, G.W did a private pilot poll to figure out what people expected, and every pilot, even those who were winning and would thereby risk their standings on another comp day, urged him to hold another task. He did, and it was the best day of flying I've ever seen at King. The task was a 70-mile run down the range to Challis, which would be an Idaho state distance record if anyone could do it. The mood on launch was motivated as pilots stowed lunches in their harnesses for a good long day of battle. Jeff Amass, who hadn't had a strong finish to date, won, followed by Bernard, Othar and the slow but steady Chris Santacroce. The rest of the field fell victim to shade, hypoxia or other problems and landed short. Othar, on a Firebird Cult, had the competition won

when Walter found a large shade patch at 24 miles and couldn't escape. However, four of the top five pilots going into the day landed to help Bill Belcourt, who crashed on the far side of the Pass Creek transition. He came into the far side of Pass Creek with Dave Bridges and several other pilots, but with slightly less altitude. As he glided onto the hillside and started climbing just behind Bridges, he took a massive whack that put him into the hillside violently enough to break his neck. Muller, Whittal and Mary Anne Karren, the meet's top female pilot at that point, all landed beside him to assist, followed by Josh Cohn, Dave Bridges, Todd Bibler and me. A flight for life helicopter was called, and Bridges, Bibler and I carried a backboard and other supplies up the hill to him. Mountain rescue in the U.S. can be difficult. While we have no shortage of helpful people, mountain rescue is a relatively rare event in the U.S. compared to Europe. Several Euro pilots questioned the need for six pilots to land, but in the U.S. you often either self-rescue or the victim dies waiting. I seriously questioned landing, given the number of pilots already on the ground, but

Climbing out at King. Photo by Jeff Diener. carrying Belcourt on a backboard across the rocky terrain to the chopper required experienced, strong people. I sincerely hope that ifI crash others will make the same decision that the competitors made. When the first hyperventilating paramedic finally reached Belcourt and tried to put oxygen on him, Belcourt growled through pain, "No, that's okay, why don't you have some." At that point I was fairly confident that his condition, if surly, was stable. As we wrestled the backboard across tl1e slippery terrain to the helicopter, Belcourt watched us sweating and falling

photo by Ulrich Grill

PARAGLIDING

down before remarking in a morphine slur, "Just don't Peter Geg me! " in reference co che German pilot who was successfully rescued in Spain, flown co Germany and then had a ride down the Autobahn on a screecher when his ambulance crashed. We managed not co. Thanks co excellent rescue coordination from Wiggy and G.W Meadows, and the local ranchers who supplied horses, the whole rescue cook under an hour, one of the fastest mountain rescues I've been involved with. Belcourc's neck and attitude are expected co make a full recovery. Given chat most of the top pilots had landed co help Belcorc (who was also in che cop five), G.W had co wrestle with the final scores for cl1e competition, but compromised in a way chat made most pilots happy by holding everyone who had landed in the same position they had entered the day in. Belcorc owes a lot of beer for making pilots land on one of the best days of the competition, possibly in King's flying history. A few things stand out about rhis competition. First, while many pilots, including me, whined about che hefty entry fee of

1997 U.S. NATIONALS REsULTS Pilot

Points

Pilot

Points

Place

1) Othar Lawrence 2) Bob Whittall 3) Dave Bridges 4) Todd Bibler 5) Walter Neser 6) Josh Cohn 7) Chris Santacroce 8) Bernard

3765 3694 3489 3466 3403 3377 3376

Winkelmann

3204 3129 2939 2889 2829 2813 2754 2753 2699 2684 2672 2605 2600 2434 2326 2303

2208 24) Brad Bloxham 2178 25) Mike Haley 26) Brad Whittemore 2166 2160 27) Sacoru Wada 2096 28) Kevin Alexander 2089 29) Jim Maze 2080 30) Robert Pynaker 2045 31) Jeff Ames 1848 32) Mark Ferguson 1822 33) Steve Arny 1819 34) Zdenek Erban 1797 35) Mike Foster 1730 36) James Johnson 1674 37) Frank Gillette 1645 38) Ross Robinson 1483 39) Greg Kelley 1482 40) Senko Koyama 41) Jean-Marc Meyes 1363 1228 42) Fred Lawley 43) Jose Casaudoumecq 1221 44) Monte Bell 947 893 45) Randy Liggett 416 46) David Nichols 0 47) Michael Reed

Place

9) Eric Lund 10) Mark Horvath 11 ) Bill Belcourt

12) Mary Anne Karren 13) Gary Brock 14) Bill Gordon 15) Yoichi Miyagawa 16) Chris Muller 17) Will Gadd 18) Lizzy Optitz 19) Chad Bastian 20) Richard Gallon 21) Paul Ferguson 22) David Stevens 23) Mike Steed

Continued on page 46

Top ofKing Mountain.

Steve Amy on course in a UP glider.

Looking north up the Lost River Range. Photos by Scott Johnson

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Continued ftom page 34. bers); 2) representing your views at the BOD meetings; 3) continuing to bring new pilots into our sport; 4) coupling the positive energies of both hang gliding and paragliding; 5) continue working with the media and encouraging others to do the same; 6) FLY and HAVE FUN! We are all ambassadors of our sport every time we fly and I take that job seriously. Thanks in advance for your VOTE. And please take the time to VOTE. This is YOUR Association. Please feel free to contact me at any time with any questions, concerns or issues you have. My e-mail address is tburcar@juno.com. My snail mail address is Tammy Burcar, P.O. Box 3274, Santa Barbara, CA 93130, tel. (805) 692-9908.

Afan Chuculate - Nominee Hi. My name is Alan Chuculate (pronounced chewkoo-la-tay) and I'm running for Regional Director for Region 3. The first time I saw a hang glider in 1974 I flew it twice. The next year I became a founding member and president of the Skyriders Hang Gliding Club at Arizona State University. This began my interest in the educational, recreational, and safety aspects of footlaunched sport aviation. Since then I've expanded my aviation experience to powered ultralights, paragliding, and earned a private pilot's license and a bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering, and had an eight-year career in the aerospace industry. I first became involved with the USHGA Board Of Directors (BOD) in 1990 because of my controversial promotion of commercial, tow-launched, tandem paragliding before the rating existed. Economics motivated me to develop and implement a paragliding towing curriculum including a tandem paragliding towlaunched rating. My initiative was approved by the BOD in 1993 and my successful participation in the political process was acknowledged by twice being elected by the Board as a Director At Large. I am currently a USHGA Honorary Director, but I have been unable to attend

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

any Board meetings in this role primarily due to schedule conflicts with foreign business travel for powered paragliding. I have now settled in San Diego and I want to renew my participation on the BOD to bring a fresh perspective to the status quo. The Board needs to be responsive to the membership, not imposing as witnessed by the waiver. The declining popularity of hang gliding can be helped by promotion and a public relations campaign. One approach advocated by Betty Pfeiffer, owner of High Energy Sports, is "crossover" exposure among other air sport participants. Betty invited me to organize and coordinate the availability of tow-launched tandem hang gliding and paragliding flights for attendees at the national skydiving conference to be held in San Diego in January 1998. The USHGA's affiliation with the Air Sports Council (ballooning, modelers, powered ultralights, sailplanes, skydiving) is an essential political and developmental unification that needs increased emphasis. The future of instructor training is about to undergo a significant change by creation of an autonomous organization for instructor certification. While appropriately shielding the USHGA from training liability, it will also bring a long-needed element of professionalism to hang gliding and paragliding instruction in the U.S. If you're happy with the status quo of the BOD and its history of rhetoric, then vote for someone else. Responsiveness to membership needs, innovative membership development, and instituting instructor professionalism are my primary interests as a Regional Director. A vote for me is a vote for expansion and change. Thank you for your consideration. David Jebb - Nominee I am running for Region 3 Director and seek your vote for this position for 1998 because I wish to help provide new leadership and direction to our organization as we enter the 21st Century. My keen interests will be directed at increasing membership and helping develop a higher standard for safety awareness for both the sports of hang gliding and paragliding. I am a paraglider pilot, with an Advanced Instructor and Tandem Instructor's rating. Currently my wife and I manage the Torrey Pines Gliderport (UP

1997

San Diego) and own the paragliding training and tour company, Air California Adventure. I have been flying for the past five years. For a brief time in the early l 980's I did some hang gliding. If elected I will serve as Region 3 Director with the best and highest intent for the good of our pilots and Organization. Thank you! Gregg Lawless -

Incumbent Hi, my name is Gregg Lawless. I have been involved on the Board of Directors for over 12 years of which seven were spent on the Executive Committee as both President (four years) and Secretary (three years). When I stepped down from the President position, I was nearing burnout and had to take a break. I've had that break and am now ready to tackle this Association's issues with the enthusiasm and vigor that I started with 12 years ago. I've been flying hang gliders for over 23 years and occasionally fly paragliders. Although my flying has been extremely limited over the last year due to other business and personal commitments (my family and high school baseball), I still have a strong interest in flying and helping guide this Association in its efforts to grow and become the leader in memberbased sport aviation organizations. Additionally, I think that it might be important for many of you to know that although I have had a business interest in this sport in the past, that is no longer the case. Over the years I have been active in the areas of insurance, safety and training, tandem, finance and was instrumental in assisting with the integration of paragliding into the USH GA. I especially want to become more involved in finance, membership and development and assisting in developing a plan for the direction this Association will take over the next 10 years. In summary, as a voting member you need to ensure that the person you elect as a regional director understands the issues facing this Association and is capable of implementing the changes necessary to

take the Association to the next level of professionalism. I feel that I am that person and would urge you to vote for me. So tear out your ballot, fill out the survey, vote for Gregg Lawless as Director for Region 3 and put that sucker in the mail. Don't procrastinate or you won't do it. Just do it. Gregg Lawless Phone: (619) 484-4194 Fax: (619) 484-6444 Pager: (619) 526-0358 E-mail: gelawles@enova.com

REGIONN Tim Meehan - Nominee I'd like to announce my candidacy for USHGA Region 4 directorship. At the same time, I'd like to accept the nomination of my fellow Chapter members and regional constituents to this position. In proposing my candidacy, I asked my friends, supporters and fellow pilots to list their top issues that they'd like to see addressed at the regional level. Among them: • Communicating with pilots. Better communication from USHGA could have prevented the current legal mess. • Continue work on opening and keeping open flying sites. USHGA should be taking a MUCH more active role in site access issues. 0 Determine better methods for pilots to move through the pilot proficiency program. 0 Improve the PG magazine to make it more of the quality of Cross Country or the Hang Gliding magazine. • Promote paragliding as a more mainstream sport. In addition to these I'd like to make my mission as regional director one of improving the organization by improving relations between the USHGA BOD and its members. We can improve relations by improving communication and our public image and public relations. I'm not expecting to be able to personally, singularly correct all of the problems in this organization all at once. However, I am asking for and expecting the help of my constituents in becoming a positive and constructive influence in helping this organization grow and mature and provide the best benefit and value of membership to its members.

I am personally committed to this mission before us. Whether as a Regional Director or rank-and-file member. We can do this together. Jim Zeiset -

Incumbent

REGIONV Frank Gillette - Incumbent Hi, I'm Frank Gillette, Owner of Magic Valley Gliders, Burley, Idaho. I've been flying hang gliders since 1972, flying paragliders since 1990, and am a certified USHGA hang gliding and paragliding instructor. I believe in an organization whose strength lies in its numbers, whose assets are informed pilots and public members. Foremost, I would like to see USHGA evolve into a cohesive organization, with solid programs and a united and focused effort to elevate our overall image through public relations. I believe it is essential to effectively work with landowners and land managers to stimulate interest in preserving existing flying sites and securing new sites. This must be accomplished through concerted pilot safety programs, not only for new pilots, but for all pilots currently enjoying the sport. To all those who enjoy flying as much as I do, and with the aforementioned ideas in mind, I ask you for your vote. Dutcher Sterling - Nominee I have accepted this nomination because I can do the job as Director. Some of you know me personally and others may know my name in reference to "the gang of five." I have been attending the last few Board Meetings at my own expense as I felt that the Board was out of touch with the membership, and changes needed to be made. I will be going to the November Board Meeting and will make every effort to see that your interests are represented. I will make the effort to meet with Region 5 members at least once a year and be a visible part of the flying community. I hope you, the Region 5 pilot, will make the effort and vote for me and change the status quo.

REGION VI No Nominees

REGION IX Pete Lehmann -

Incumbent

REGIONX Matt Taber -

Incumbent

REGION XI Dave Broyles -Nominee For those of you who don't already know me, I run a small hang gliding and paragliding school in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I have attended BOD meetings for the last four years out of a personal interest in safety and training issues related to both hang gliding and paragliding. I am running for Regional Director because I believe that the USHGA is in a crisis. The waiver issue, in particular, has caused a large number of pilots to distrust the USHGA leadership. Another organization is being formed which could take members from the USHGA. I don't believe that the USHGA can do an effective job representing only a part of the HG and PG pilots in the U.S. My goal will be, as Director, to work to heal this rift by working for a compromise between both sides that will lead to a waiver more acceptable to the whole membership, and to help create a mechanism for allowing the membership to directly vote on controversial issues. Poor communication has caused some of the membership to distrust our leadership. The USHGA Standard Operating Procedures require the officers to properly respond to letters and inquiries from members. As Region 11 Director, I will listen to and respond to any Region 11 member who calls me on the phone, e-mails me or writes me about any USHGA issue. I will gladly attend club meetings anywhere in Region 11 to discuss and explain USHGA issues. I will come prepared to talk turkey and call a spade a spade. Further, as part of my personal Web site, I will provide a web page at www.kite-enterprises.com/Regionl 1 for the use of Region 11, which will be available for both sides of any issue. I will place on this site a synopsis of actions taken by the BOD at the meetings I attend, including how I voted on these issues and why.

PARAGLIDING

I believe that each Regional Director should hold himself or herself to a very high standard of ethics. This means that if an issue comes up where I have a conflict of interest, I will either abstain from voting on this issue, or vote for the best interest of the Region regardless of how it might affect me. If I find that my personal position on an issue is different from that of the majority of the members in Region 11, I will support the Region's position rather than my own. I am not going to become a Regional Director to help my business or to be a big wheel, but instead to support my Region and to help the sport grow. If you have any question you need answered before you will vote for me, then call me at (972) 727-3588, or e-mail me at broyles@pseudospace.com before you cast your vote. Or call someone who knows me well and ask them. Dang, this sounds like a campaign speech. When the movie version "Region 11, the Election" comes out, it will be a lot funnier. Just don't wait for the movie before you vote. Best of all, you DON'T have ro fill in the questionnaire to vote. Thanks for the vote. Jeff Hunt -

Incumbent Hello all. If Region 11 reelects me I will serve yet another term. I have tried to be effective at the local, regional and national levels. I feel the longer I am involved, the more knowledgeable and able to track and affect events I become. This is a good opportunity to highlight what has been going on during my past term as Regional Director and USHGA Board Member. REGIONALLY Region Wide Season-Long X-C Contest. Third year for this. Increased participation and mileage is up. Currently Mike Degroff is leading with 186 miles for his three flights. I put out effort for sites. For example: MaifaAirport- Excellent airport tow site opened this year in April. Week-long fun meet planned next year in last half of

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

April. Christmas Mountain - State-owned site in west Texas near Big Bend National Park. This foot-launch site needs improved access up the road but Terlingua Ranch which surrounds Christmas Mountain wants to promote hang gliding. Leakey- Searching for an old footlaunch site near Leakey that has been reported in old site guides and rumored known by a few old pilots. I also provide support and encouragement on site procurement efforts when contacted by members such as John Noe, Bob Loper and Kent Robinson on three different sites. I've also been involved in the formation and organization of the TFFA (Texas Free Flight Association) a group interested in promotion of related sports and the eventual purchase of a flying site. TFFA was helped with effort from RR Rodriguez in creating the corporation documents. RR also has offered a big service with an e-mail reflector (soaring@swt.edu) that works as a great communication tool. I recommend everyone get e-mail service. LOCALLY Flying as often as I can at Packsaddle Mtn. as well as teaching the sport of hang gliding and gaining more experience with my paraglider. I have supported educational presentations to area schools and organizations. I like to show the sport to kids. I had 120 cub scouts trying to provide a human tow this year. NATIONALLY I work with the towing committee as Co-Chair with Lars Linde and try to keep up with the programs and help pull together a promotion package for airport managers. I work with the site management committee to keep ideas going and improving efforts here. I am going to promote the idea of a continuing spot in the magazines which will be a note from each regionally elected director on a rotating basis. So, once every 13 months a director would be obligated to report on their own and their region's activities. I make an effort to understand all the decisions, making for a good Board member. If I'm put in the job again, I will continue to give it my best. •

1997

Continued ftom page 13. entire system. If you are unable to contact your dealer, please contact Edel USA directly. In addition, please use this as an opportunity to have your reserve parachute repacked. Also, please note that we have identified problems that prevent reserves from being deployed with the dorsal reserve containers from several major manufacturers. Despite being notified by Edel USA, certain U.S. distributors of theses products haven't issued appropriate safety notices. Please let this serve as a reminder to inspect your reserve system regardless of who manufactured or installed it. Please feel free to call Edel USA with questions about your system. Contact: Edel/Firebird USA Customer Service (208) 726-1100.

AIRWORTHINESS NOTICES uring safety training line failures have occurred on two Musters Teena L paragliders. In agreement with the manufacturer, Ailes de K Germany GmbH, the DHV is advising the following precautionary safety measures: 1) the main lines on all Tecno L's must be checked; 2) if the lines fail they must be replaced. Testing and line replacement is available from Ailes de K Germany, Sonnbach 8, 8 3122 Samerberg, Tel. Ol l-49-8032-8884, fax 0 l 1-49-8032-8884. In addition, the paraglider reserve chute, Amigo P 1 from Engelhardt Michael, Fly For Fun, has experienced the following problems: 1) The force required to open the container could be higher than allowable because the velcro on the outside container is too wide. Chutes with serial numbers 365 to 400 are affected. 2) Glue residue from inappropriate self-adhering decals can stick the panels of the canopy together. Emergency equipment with serial numbers 365 to 457 are affected. Repairs are offered by Michael Engelhardt, Fly For Fun, Mullerstr. 10, 80469 Munchen, tel. 089-2603200, fax 089-2603338. II

GOLD SAFE PILOT AWARDS MIGUEL GUTIERREZ

BRONZE LILIENTHAL AWARDS ALLEN LARSEN

HICKS, STAN: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/The Soaring Center HOLMES, MICHAEL: Golden, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG MACE, GERALD: Sandy, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MERRCIK, COLTER: Telluride, CO; S. MacLawry/PG Telluride MICHAELIS, NEAL: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/PG Telluride PANARISI, CRAIG: Sandy, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG

SILVER LILIENTHAL AWARDS ALLEN LARSEN

BEGINNER RATINGS Region 1 EMRICH, THOR: Camano Is, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG FOLLIARD, JOHN: Eugene, OR; B. Hill/Over the Hill PG FUJIWARA, MOTOI: Kirkland, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washington HJELLEN, ANDREW: Seattle, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG LAWRENCE, THEODORE: Walla Walla, WA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG LUDWIG, JAMES: Seattle, WA; C. Mulack/Chelan PG MACRAE, ANDY: Chewelah, WA; K.Hudonjorgensen/The Soaring Center ORNELAS, ROBERT: Ashland, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG PEARCE, STEVEN: Tillamook, OR; D. Raybourn/HG PG School of Oregon ROSS DMD, JEFFREY: Beavenon, OR; D. Raybourn/HG PG School of Oregon SANGHAMITRA, RAY: Seattle, WA; L. Do Chirico/Chirico's Fright School TRAVIS, MATI: Fall City, WA; M. Heckler/Para Pilot WOLCOTI,JONATHAN: Camas, WA; L. Pindar/Over the Hill PG WYSOCKA, ]OLANTA: Seattle, WA; K.Hudonjorgensen/The Soaring Center Region2 BIERNACKI, WENDY: Las Vegas, NV; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits CHAUMONT, CHAD: Pacifica, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG CHERRY, ASHTON: Belvedere, CA; P. Hirst/Westcoast PG GROSE, JONATHAN: Saratoga, CA; P. Hirst/Westcoast PG HIMES, DAVE: Sunnyvale, CA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HOWARD, RODGER: Las Vegas, NV; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits KALANICK, RON: Union City, CA; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports KUGELMAS, TANYA: San Francisco, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG MC ENEANEY, JOSEPH: Milpitas, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell NELLON, TOMMIE: Fresno, CA; B. Shook/Cheap Thrills Airsports PEZZI, ROBBYN: Los Osos, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky REID, CHRIS: San Jose, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell ROBINSON, GUY: Sacramento, CA; W. Anderson/Chandelle ROBINSON, JULIE: Sacramento, CA; W. Anderson/Chandelle ROTHBART, JASON: San Francisco, CA; T. Switzer/Skytimes PG SCHINDLER, WALTHER: Oakland, CA; K. Schluter/Altus Parasports THOEMMES, GUENTHER: Hayward, CA; K. Schluter/Altus Parasports WASSENAAR, DIRK: San Francisco, CA; J. Van Meter/Westcoast PG WISHNIE, JEFF: San Francisco, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG Region 3 CACCIAPAGLIA, ART: Santee, CA; L. Love/UP San Diego KEENER, JAMES: Newbury Pk, CA; K. deRussy/HG Emporium LOEWE, PATRICK: Glendora, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure OZEKI, KENJI: Arcadia, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky RICHARD, GREG: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/UP San Diego SANTANA, MARCO: Westminster, CA; M. DeBarros/Armosphere PG Region4 BABER, JOHN: Hobbs, NM; B. Shook/Personal Flyght Baja CHRISTENSEN, DON: Orem, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG DEBRING, LAURIE: Aurora, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG

Region 5 BURTCH, BOYD: Missoula, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG GERHARD, KEN: Missoula, MT; T. Arnot/Airworks PG KORSH, STEPHANIE: Missoula, MT; T. Arnot/Airworks PG Region 7 EGGE, JACK: Sioux Falls, SD; B. Shook/Cheap Thrills Airsports PRICE, KENT: Grandville, MI; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ROSSI, DENNIS: Washington, MI; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG WINTON, JOHN: Minneapolis, MN; B. Shook/Personal Flyght Baja Region 8 BURNETI, JEFF: Mont Vernon, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP ELLIS, ROBERT: Cushing, ME; E. Oman/Personal Flyght Baja GHETII, DALTON: Westport, CT; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG KELSEY ELLIS, TINA: Cushing, ME; E. Oman/Personal Flyght Baja WALSH, MICHAEL: Worcester, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP Region 9 DISHEROON, DAVID: Pittsburgh, PA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG FOWLER, BRIAN: Mentor, OH; R. Bachman/Kitty Hawk Kites Region 10 BRUN, ALBERTO: Key Biscayne, FL; P. Somerset/AT Sports DE LON GA, DAYID: Palm Bch Gard, FL; L. Love/UP San Diego HAGENBEEK, LEX: Arden, NC; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG NIEBRUGGE, PATRICK: Bonita Springs, FL; B. Shook/Personal Flight Baja SELF, MAVERICK: Roxboro, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 11 DA RE, LOUISE: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG GERSON, MARINA: Arlington, TX; D. Broyles/Kite Enterprises KLEMM, WILLIAM: Navasota, TX; M. Osowski/Hill Country PG PUCKETI, KENT: Houston, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG Region 12 FINNE, ARNAUD: New York, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG LEWIS, JIM: Wyckoff, NJ; P. Renaudin/GMI PG LO BASSO, DAMIAN: South River, NJ; P. Renaudin/GMI PG LOW, JOHN: Purling, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoasc PG SCHULMAN, PAUL: Fair Lawn, NJ; P. Hirst/Westcoast PG Region 13 MOORE, MICHAEL: Ireland; L. Do Chirico/Chirico's Fright School

NOVICE RATINGS Region 1 BARLOW, DOUGLAS: Seattle, WA; L. Do Chirico/Chirico's Fright School CAUBLE, ROB: Vida, OR; F. Watson/Sky Hook Sports CUMMINGS, KIRSTEN: Seattle, WA; L. Do Chirico/Chirico's Fright School FUJIWARA, MOTOI: Kirkland, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washingron HARDIN, JUSTIN: Eugene, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports

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HJELLEN, ANDREW: Seattle, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG LAWRENCE, THEODORE: Walla Walla, WA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG LUDWIG,JAMES: Seattle, WA; C. Mulack/Chelan PG MACRAE, ANDY: Chewelah, WA; K.Hudonjorgensen/The Soaring Center MC MILLEN, EDWARD: Redmond, WA; C. Mulack/Chelan PG ORNELAS, ROBERT: Ashland, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG PEARCE, STEVEN: Tillamook, OR; D. Raybourn/HG PG School of Oregon RIPPE, FRANK: Edmonds, WA; C. Mulack/Chelan PG ROSS DMD,JEFFREY: Beaverton, OR; D. Raybourn/HG PG School of Oregon SIEG, LOUIS: Kent, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School TRAVIS, MATT: Fall City, WA; M. Heckler/Para Pilot WYSOCKA, }OLANTA: Seattle, WA; K.Hudonjorgensen/The Soaring Center Region2 BADINO, NICOLAS: Campbell, CA; L. Love/UP San Diego CHAUMONT, CHAD: Pacifica, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG HAAN, RON: San Francisco, CA; J. Stenstadvold/Ajax PG HALLAHAN, MAGGIE: San Francisco, CA; S. Hassell/Airtek San Deigo HIMES, DAVE: Sunnyvale, CA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HOUSER, ROBERT: San Francisco, CA; J. Van Meter/Westcoast PG MC ENEANEY, JOSEPH: Milpitas, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell PEZZI, ROBBYN: Los Osos, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky REID, CHRIS: San Jose, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell ROBINSON, GUY: Sacramento, CA; W. Anderson/Chandelle ROBINSON, JULIE: Sacramento, CA; W. Anderson/Chandelle ROTHBART, JASON: San Francisco, CA; T. Switzer/Skytimes PG THOEMMES, GUENTHER: Hayward, CA; K. Schluter/Altus Parasports WISHNIE, JEFF: San Francisco, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG Region3 BISSON, CHRIS: San Diego, CA; L. Love/UP San Diego CACCIAPAGLIA,ART: Santee, CA; L. Love/UP San Diego DEAN, MICHAEL: San Diego, CA; L. Love/UP San Diego KEENER, JAMES: Newbury Pk, CA; K. deRussy/HG Emporium LAMAR, MATT: San Juan Cap, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky LOEWE, PATRICK: Glendora, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure RICHARD, GREG: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/UP San Diego Region 4 AUBANEY, RONALD: Basalt, CO; C. Smith/Aspen PG CHRISTENSEN, DON: Orem, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CONNALLY, CASEY: Vail, CO; G. KelleyNail Valley PG CRILL, BUDDY: Tucson, AZ; T. Barton/Airborne Sports USA DEBRING, LAURIE: Aurora, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG ESSMAN, DAVID: Morrison, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft HASKELL, JR, CHARLES: Glendale, AZ; G. Banks/Parasoft HICKS, STAN: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/The Soaring Center HOARE, SIMON: Fort Collins, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft HOLMES, MICHAEL: Golden, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG MACE, GERALD: Sandy, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MC CONNELL, JAMIE: Golden, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft MERRCIK, COLTER: Telluride, CO; S. MacLawry/PG Telluride O'NEILL, BRIAN: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/PG Telluride PANARISI, CRAIG: Sandy, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ROELL, THOMAS: Denver, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft VAN MOORHEM, KEN: Salt Lake City, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/The Soaring Center

Region 5 BURTCH, BOYD: Missoula, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG BUSHNELL, EDWARD: Jackson, WY; C. Warren/Wind Dance Region 7 PRICE, KENT: Grandville, Ml; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ROSSI, DENNIS: Washington, Ml; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 8 BURNETT, JEFF: Mont Vernon, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP GHETTI, DALTON: Westport, CT; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG Region 9 HENRY, CAROLINE: Chester Spgs, PA; J. Stenstadvold/Ajax PG Region 10 BRUN, ALBERTO: Key Biscayne, FL; P. Somerset/AT Sports GOODMAN, ROBERT BUBBA: Creston, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG HAGENBEEK, LEX: Arden, NC; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SELF, MAVERICK: Roxboro, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 11 WAGNER, GERALD: Mc Kinney, TX; D. Broyles/Kite Enterprises Region 12 FINNE, ARNAUD: New York, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG LEWIS, JIM: Wyckoff; NJ; P. Renaudin/GMl PG LO BASSO, DAMIAN: South River, NJ; P. Renaudin/GMI PG LOW, JOHN: Purling, NY; L. Linde/Easrcoast PG Region 13 HOARE, MICHAEL: The Netherlands; G. Banks/Parasoft MAURE, BEN: Canada; M. deJong/Mescalito PG

INTERMEDIATE RATINGS Region 1 BUCKLEY, GERALD: Juneau, AK; J. Kreinheder/Alaska PG DE BEER, JOSEF: Kirkland, WA; C. Mulack/Chelan PG RYAN, MARK: Bellevue, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washington SHAW, LADDIE: Juneau, AK; J. Kreinheder/Alaska PG SOMERS, LEONARD: Lake Stevens, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School Region2 BORLAND, DREW: San Francisco, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG MUTZ, ANDREW: Palo Alto, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG PEZZI, ROBBYN: Los Osos, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky Region3 ABATE, ANTHONY: Los Angeles, CA; E. Oman/Personal Flyght Baja HERSH, DOUGLAS: Del Mar, CA; A. Chuculate/Air Apparent MC LANE, JAMES: Oceanside, CA; F. Lawley/Accelerated Flight MEICHTRY, ALBERT: Ventura, CA; D. Jebb/UP San Diego SAVARESE, ROBERT: San Diego, CA; P. Somerset/AT Sports SCHLEICHER, RICHARD: San Pedro, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure WILHELM, JAMES: Simi Valley, CA; A Bendavid/Pelican Soaring

PARAGLIDING

----------~

~----

1997 TOP 30 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN BEGINNER (PARA l) RATINGS ISSUED

RANK SCHOOL ........................................................ BEGINNER

Region4 BUTLER, RALPH: Ogden, UT; P. Somerset/J\T Sports COOPER, JERRY: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PIERCE, RYAN: Snowmass Vig, CO; C. Smith/Aspen PG Region 5 DUERR, DON: Laramie, WY; K.HLtdonjorgensen/The Soaring Center Region 8 MARKO, STEPHEN: Woburn, MA; P. Hirst/Westcoast PG Region 9 FOLGER, JEREMIE: Cincinnati, OH; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG Region 12 BUONANNO, MICHAEL: E Northport, NY; P. Renaudin/GMI PG ADVANCED RATINGS Region 1 LAP KASS, JOHN: Anchorage, AK; B. Hamler/Golden Eagle PG Region 3 MCINTOSH, DESMOND: Santa Barbara, CA; Y. Bajulaz/ABC Airsports Region4 FOSTER, PETE: Parks, AZ; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HUSTED, KRIS: Vail, CO; G. Kelley/Vail Valley PG Region 5 OLSEN, DANIEL: Jackson, WY; R. Kocurek/Observer RUSSO, THOMAS: Teton Village, WY; C. Warren/Wind Dance

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 9 12 12 12 12 12 17 I7 17 17 17 22 22 22 22 22 27 27 27 27 27 27 27

1997 TOP 30 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN NOVICE (PARA 2) RATINGS ISSUED

RANK SCHOOL ............................................................ NOVICE 1

Region 8 BAKER, BRUCE: Natick, MA; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports

3 4

Region 9 FOLGER, JEREMIE: Cincinnati, OH; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG

5 6 6 6

Region 10 TABELING, MICHAEL: Ind Hbr Bch, FL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG

9 9

Region 13 ERBAN, ZDENEK: Canada; C. Santacroce/Sun Valley PG TANDEM ONE RATINGS BARRY BARR BRIAN FORD BRETT ZAENGLEIN XAVIER GIRIN HANSJORG KUNKLER JEREMIE FOLGER THOMAS KENT TANDEM TWO RATINGS BOB OSBORN TANDEM INSTRUCTOR RATINGS MARIE OSOWSKI NANCY STANFORD

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1997

Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ................................................ 57 Eastcoasr Paragliding .......................................................... 35 Cloud 9 Paragliding ............................................................ 21 Hill Country Paragliding .................................................... 17 Glidell ................................................................................ 15 HG & PG School or Oregon .............................................. 14 Westcoast Paragliding ......................................................... 13 SurfThe Sky ...................................................................... 12 Adventure Sports ................................................................ 10 Morningside Flight Park ..................................................... 10 Southern Skies Paragliding ................................................. 10 Altus Parasports .................................................................... 9 Chirico's Fright School ......................................................... 9 Fly Away Paragliding ............................................................ 9 High Adventure ................................................................... 9 Over The Hill Paragliding .................................................... 9 Chandelle ............................................................................. 8 Cheap Thrills Airsports ......................................................... 8 GMI Paragliding .................................................................. 8 Monterey Bay Paragliding .................................................... 8 US Airborne ......................................................................... 8 Flying Dreams Paragliding ................................................... 7 Personal Flight Baja .............................................................. 7 Sun Sports ............................................................................ 7 The Soaring Center .............................................................. 7 Two Can Fly ........................................................................ 7 Airtime of San Francisco ....................................................... 6 Aspen Paragliding ................................................................. 6 Big Sky Paragliding ............................................................... 6 HG & PG Emporium .......................................................... 6 Paragliding Telluride ............................................................ 6 Traverse City HG & PG ...................................................... 6 Vail Valley Paragliding ......................................................... 6

11 11 13 14 14 14 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 26 26 26 26 26

Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ................................................ 49 Eastcoast Paragliding .......................................................... 45 Cloud 9 Paragliding ............................................................ 27 The Soaring Center ............................................................ 19 HG & PG School or Oregon .............................................. 16 Glidell ................................................................................ 14 Parasoft Paragliding ............................................................ 14 Westcoast Paragliding ......................................................... 14 Aspen Paragliding ............................................................... 12 Two Can Fly ...................................................................... 12 North American Paragliding ............................................... 11 Pro Flyght Hawaii .............................................................. 11 Fly Away Paragliding .......................................................... 10 Airtek Paragliding ................................................................. 9 Alaska Paragliding ................................................................ 9 Parafly Paragliding ................................................................ 9 Altus Paragliding .................................................................. 8 Chandelle ............................................................................. 8 Chirico's Fright School ......................................................... 8 GMI Paragliding .................................................................. 8 High Adventure .................................................................... 8 Monterey Bay Paragliding .................................................... 8 Sky Sports ............................................................................ 8 Surf the Sky .......................................................................... 8 UP San Diego ....................................................................... 8 Airjunkies Pargliding ............................................................ 7 Big Sky Paragliding ............................................................... 7 Chelan Paragliding ............................................................... 7 Flying Dreams Paragliding ................................................... 7 Sky Hook Sports .................................................................. 7

Rankings were compiled from ratings published in January!FebruaryNovember!December 1997 issues ofParagliding magazine.

Continued from page 37 $350, G.W ran an excellent meet, especially considering that his experience was primarily limited to hang gliding and that he had never run a paragliding meet before. If G.W adds a good party to his future meets I think most pilots will pay the ent1y fee willingly for the level of professionalism. Second, the level of competition in the U.S. is much higher than it used to be. Josh Cohn won a task in the World's this year, Todd Bibler finished in the top 15 at the Worlds, and the rest of the World Team flew very well. Their competition experience raised the whole level of the meet, and the visiting Euros flew fast as well. Still, and remember this, Othar Lawrence is the first American to flat-out win his own country's Nationals in living mem01y. Third, Rob Whittal placed second on an

intermediate glider. Granted, he's an exceptional pilot, but I think intermediate gliders such as the Flame are closing the gap on competition wings. Whittal flew with a very aerodynamic harness as well, so perhaps that's one direction to go for better performance with less twitchy wings. It also showed me that those of us flying comp wings may need to work on our skills more and worry about what we're flying less. Fourth, Chris Santacroce is the first North American Champion. Next year there's talk of a North American Championships, which would be a nice way to link the U.S., Mexico and Canada like the European championships. Finally, King Mountain is a great place to fly. The locals are friendly, the beer cheap and the air incredible. Check it out. Ill

Hangar 1, Linden Rirport Linden, M1':hl9an USR 484151

1-800-AIR-STUF

Continued from page 18. ing, you can bet that rearward or reverse spins are doubly so. Recovery from a spin involves stopping the rotation and removing the stall. The standard way to do this is to lower the nose (apply stirrup) then hit the brake on the outside of the turn. It is desirable to build up speed first before you hit the brake to avoid canopy surge and possibly a spin in the opposite direction. One problem with spins is that your body has inertia, and if the canopy suddenly breaks into a spin it may wrap around and twist your risers like a barber's pole while you dangle as helpless as a sitting duck. In this case it may be possible to pull the risers apart to spin your body to catch up with the wing, but chances are your chances are over. In that case you must exercise the ultimate option available for all spins: toss silk - as in emergency parachute. Clearly, stalls and spins are not our favorite maneuvers. But whether we choose to dance with them or not, they are sometimes uninvited guests who cut into our routine. What we do with them depends on our experience and preparedness. Part of being prepared consists of learning more about stalls and spins in the manner we have presented here. The more you know about how your wing works, the more able you will be to avoid the bad stuff by recognizing situations that lead up to stalls and spins. We have provided the background information; add it to your collection from books and instructors in order to fly safely with nimble awareness and a healthy escape margin. Ill

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HALL BROTHERS PO Box l 01 0-P Morgan UT 84050 (801) 829-3232 fax 829-6349 MCNisa/COD

Skytirnes Paragliding In tl'le San Francisco Bay Area. USHGA certified lessons. Tandem instruction. Guided mountain trips including thermal and cross-country training. Radio communications between student and instructor. E-mail switzer@hooked.net PO Box 687, Bolinas CA 94924

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• THe Kena is a glider with an excellent performance suitable for any good pilot.• Dante Ponta: Delta Parapendio n'59 • The Kena has a glide angte above 8 with a sink rate around 1 mis. This is a fast wing I with an excellent handling that any experienced pilot will love.» Mario Arque: Parapente Vuelo Libre n• 38

32,5

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A Guide to Powered Paragliding

Video & Magazine This fu ll color periodical covers current information about Powered Paragliding in North America. It contains over 30 color photos of the units. Articles include FAR's, weather, thrust tests and more. The video is a 46 minute documentary, covering the 3 day meet in Baja, Mexico . Showing low level formation flights , tandem, scooter towing, air to air photography and much more. This is not a subscription - ONE ISSUE ONLY!

Magazine - $7.95 ppd. Video - $25. plus $3 . s+h order both and SAVE$ 29.95 ppd VTSA & Mastercard gladl y accepted.

This is the NEW 3rd edition of the acclaimed Tou ching Cloudbase book fo r parag liding pilots. More than just a hi story lesson. T.C. has ton s of use ful in fo rm ati on to help you progress. Many school s use this book for their student manu al. $ 22. 50 plu s S 3. s+h

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MIDAS THE NEW SUPERT SPORT CLASS Midas is a performance breakthrough in a 'Standard Class· glider while maintaining all the easy launch and handling traits sought after in a "standard". With a combination of quality manufacture, material and performance, this glider will be with you for many years to come.

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"The Midas is a quality product, well done, suitable for every pilot. Easy to fly and extremely safe this is the kind of product that are focusing most of the manufacturers as well as most of the pilots.» Noel Bertrand. Vol Libre n9 Mars 97

Cloud Chart Poster Sti ll just $ 12. 95 ppd. Learn about clo uds and weather with thi s beautiful full color po ster. Full s ize 26" x 38"poster makes a great di splay for home or oflice . It al so makes a great gift for yo ur flyin g friend s '!

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PARAGLIDING ADVISORY: Used paragliders should always be thoroughly inspected before flying for the first time. If in doubt, many paragliding businesses will be happy to give an objective opinion on the condition of equipment you bring them to inspect. BUYERS SHOULD SELECT EQUIPMENT THAT IS APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR SKILL LEVEL OR RATING. NEW PILOTS SHOULD SEEK PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTION FROM A USHGA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR.

EDEL ENERGY XL - 100 hours, SupAir harness, Flytec .3005 vario, helmet, flightsui,, Eq bag $2000. Compact 29, Edel Soar harness, helmet, Eq bag, 25 hours, new $2,000. Shadd (970) 96.3-4179. EDEL GALAXY - Performance tandem, low hours, purple & yellow batwing $3,000. (509) 245-4988.

PARAGLIDERS ABC: AIRSPORTS - Winter clearance sell on all inventory! Call or look at webpage for complete listing. ybajulaz@silcom.com (805) 688-0343 http://www.silcom.com/-ybajulaz

ABOVE & BEYOND USED GLIDERS & EQUIPMENT! 800-882-7937, vista@vii.com

AT TANDEM 40M - Great for motorized flight, <20 flights, tandem risers w!trim system, large tandem bag $2,000. Greg (714) 754-/041.

EDEL SABER -- Large, Hero harness, new late Summer '97. No time to fly it-still new $:l,200. (.320) 743-41.38. EDEL SABER MEDIUM - Nov '96, excellent condition, purple top, white bottom, flawless, w/1-Iero harness and Edel reserve (also Nov '96), only $2,400! (303) 6519675.

Toll free l-

MAC HAWAII 29M - 1997, <5 hours, maximun weight 228, certified $1,500. (704) 948-0540. NOVA PJ--IILOU 26 - Beginner/intermediate, 1G5209lbs, AT harness w/reserve, excellenr condition, <lOhrs $2,000 OBO. (/87) 752-78.36. NOVA SPHINX 29 - Speed, trimmers, racing lines, great inter/adv. glider $500 OBO. Factory line ser for above $350. Tony (310) 459-2682. PARAGLIDER - Powered paraglider, harness, emergency chute, tow bridle $3,500 OBO for cill or will sell individual corn po nets. Call (50 I) G6G-6025 or (SO I) 985-2768. PROf<EEL 33 - With harness and XS 360/help reserve, 5 hours, excellent $2,800 OBO. (541) 31 79594.

'97, large, low hours, red

QUANTUM M - 80-95kg, 27 hours, basic harness included, unique bat logo on top, will pay for inspection $ I ,800. (208) 2.3.3-24% Nick.

AIRWAVE REGGAE 30 - 5 hours, 165-230lbs, light purple $2,000. (307) 734-1526.

FLIGHT DESIGN A4 - One hour use, I 75-225lbs. Deluxe harness & pack, never used. Reserve & Uvex XL helmet. Offers. Call Bede (206) 9:18-1 507 bedek@lcimetrix-cadcam.com

SOL BALANCE 90 - 165-209lbs, great performing novice glider, one summer/35 hours of easy flying, perfect condition, backpack, stuff bag, repair kit and manual included $1,333. Call Eric (970) 926-7676.

APCO PRIMA 124 - Excellent condition, harness & reserve, 30 hours, small pilot perfection $ l ,400 OBO. (213) 935-2446 Stacey@pactitle.com

£'LIGHT DESIGN A4-25 - New inspection, great .shape, perfect first glider $900 OBO. Call (509) 9255565.

SWING MINOA 32C - New. Best turning glider ever built! C:usrom color, deluxe metal riser system, cerner flap system, absolutely pristine condition $3,500. Greg (714) 754-7041.

APCO SPECTRA 27 - 15 hours, excellent intennediate glider $1,250. Apco Supra 28, 10 hours, great advanced glider $1,000. Apco Compaq harness with 16 gore reserve $380. (818) 782-0084.

GLIDERS FOR SALE- Pro Design Pro !-'eel 33, like new $1,900. Max 65, 100 hours in Europe $1,800. Contest 48 $900. Josh (303) 939-9637 cohnjb@lcoJorado.edu

FIREBIRD FLAME $2,600. (509) 243-4988.

AIRWAVE REGGAE 27 - 8 hours, 132-176lb.1, light green $I, 900. (307) 734-1526.

Number of months: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

USHGA CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ORDER FORM 50 cents per word, $5.00 minimum Boldface or caps: $1.00 per word. (Does not include first few words which are automatically caps.) Special layouts or tabs: $25 per column inch. (phone numbers: 2 words, P.O. Box: 1 word, E-mail or Web address: 3 words) photos: $25.00, line art logos: $15.00 (1.75" maximum) DEADLINE: 20th of the month, six weeks before the cover date of the issue in which you want your ad to appear (i.e., September 20 for the Nov./Dec. issue). Prepayment required unless account established. No cancellations or refunds 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:

SECTION O Paragliders O Emergency Parachutes O Parts & Accessories l..l Business & Employment O Miscellaneous O Powered Paragliders 0 Videos

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consecutive issue(s). My O check, O money order is enclosed in the amount of$ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ NAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ADDRESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ CITY: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE: PHONE: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Number of words: _______ @$.50 =_____ Number of words:

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PARAGLIDING

THE WHOLE PACKAGE - Firebird Apache 23 w/speedseat, Sitting Bull harness, all low hours, RS2 reserve, Yaesu FT4l Ie radios (2), Garmin GPS38. $2,500. Corey (215) 413-2432 nislow@crab.rutgcrs.edu TREKKING MIURA XL - 32.5, very low time, only 15 flights. Includes 22 gore reserve and Artwing harness, beautiful, crispy wing, 210-280lbs. (505) 327-7851. POWERED PARAGLIDERS ADVENTURE F2 - w/dcluxc harness, never flown, must sell for health reasons $3,800. (916) 365-0343. ADVENTURE F3 - Electric start, internal & external decompressor, many spare parts, 25 hour ·n·, ITV Jade 30 wing with deluxe harness included. All for only $4,500, old age forcing retirement. (941) 424-0168. BEST PRICES IN U.S.! - Whisper, Whisper Plus NGT w/Symphony motor canopy. New and used. Check everyone's prices first, then call us. HPM Enterprises Inc., Henry Muller (910) 945-4647 hmuller l 23@)aol.com BUILD/FLY - Your own BACKPACK POWERED PARACHUTE for fun/profit. Takes off from level ground unassisted. Safe, simple, inexpensive. Detailed book with sources. Now only $19.95. EasyUp, 1089 Medford Center #244p, Medford OR 97504. http://www.wave.net/ easyup/

SCHOOLS & DEALERS

DIXON'S AIRPU,Y PARAGLIDING - The perfect beginner training areas! Year round temperate climate. DR1VE UP to 360 degree treeless and rocklcss launches. Land in wide open fields. Master rated tandem instructor Dixon White has supervised over 12,000 studenr flights to date, teaching pilors is his profession. Individualized training with state-of-the-arr equipment, 2-way radios, comprehensive ground schooling with an emphasis on micrometcorology. Great new and used inventory. Specialized clinics including the CAGE, towing and BACKPACK MOTORS. Enjoy the Grand Canyon and other spectacular scenery. Great lodging bargains or luxury accommodations. Dave Bridges, US National Champion says, "Dixon's srudcnts are extremely well-trained and competent pilots." Dixon's Paragliding in ARIZONA and WASHINGTON (appointments recommended), PO Box 2626, Flagstaff AZ 86004. (520) 526-4579. www.paraglide.com ARKANSAS

[n the month of February, 15 pilots will have "THE CHANCE" to fly the famous Brazilian sires and enjoy the wild 4 days of world known Carnival in Rio de Janiero. Great lodging in the besr atmosphere of the world. Transportation, sire fees, rour guide, cooking, laundry, air fare, luggage insurance, t-shirt and hat, all included on the package price of $3.500, be prepared for the trip of your life 1 After all, you'll be in RIO! Departure from Los Angeles on Feb 12 and returning, on March I, 1998. For more info and reservations call: Visa or Masrercard accepted.

LA MOUET!'E ZR.250 - New condition, <IO hours, spare prop $2,995 OBO. (714) 892-3084. EMERGENCY PARACHUTES

HARNESSES ASCEND AIR - w/Quanrum 440 reserve by High Energy Sports. Dual riser system w/Specrra lines. Second Chanrz air-rocket w/hand deploy option. The best of everything $1,000. Greg (714) 754-704!. WOODY VALLEY MODEL- ls now introducing its full line of unique [ralian paragliding and hang gliding harnesses in the United States. For info call Eastcoast Paragliding at (914) 647-3377. Dealer inquires welcome.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

AIR TIME OF SAN FRANCISCO WEST COAST PARAGLIDING THIS PREMIER PARACl.IDING FACILITY - Ls now under the management of LARS LINDE of East Coast Paragliding and GREG SMITH of Edel USA. We arc qualified to issue all possible paragliding licenses pursuant to USHGA standards. THE BEST SHOP IN THE WEST! We offer a full spectrum of instruction, tandem, repairs and porosity tests. We stock all major brands of paragliding equipment available on the marker. Enroll in our demo day-everyday program. SHOP (415) 759-1177, OFFICE (908) 747-7845.

SAIL WINGS - Freestyle paragliders, 1-'ly back packs. (501) 851-4094 http://www.dhe.ncrl-kelly/sailwings.hrml

DK - Bolt pattern 4-blade wood prop $350, .%" or 39". Convert your Whisper Plus or GT from the DK pattern to the Rotax patten for $150 to use !VO props, etc. Call for DK parts and products, toll-free 1-888-6369111. Dealer inquiries welcome.

ADVENTURE SPORTS LOFT - The repair center for Air America Paragliding,. Reserve repacks, repairs, modifications. Master Rigger Scott Christensen (909) 657-2676.

AlRTEK PARAGLIDING - In sunny San Diego. Year-round thermal & ridge soaring, beginner rhru advanced instruction, all major brands, phone/fax (619) 450-6696. Please see our display ad.

USHGA certified paragliding & hang gliding instruction. Courses arc expertly run on a friendly, informative basis. We have been introducing people to the world of foot launched flight since 1976. New and used gliders and accessories. Ball, Comer, Edel, l'irebird, rJV, Pacific Airwavc, Wills Wing and others. All skill levels welcome. PO Box 1226, Del Mar CA 92014. (619) 481-7400 Southern California. AIR.JUNKIES PARAGLIDING - Join KEN BAIER for your "Pursuit of Paragliding Excellence" in the land of year-round, excellent paragliding: Somhern California and the Baja. Courses for Novice, lntcrmediarc, Advanced and Instructor ratings. Powered paragliding, soaring and maneuvers clinics, guided rours, tandem and towing instruction and special events. USHGJ\ certified. Handling the Lnest equipment. Call (619) 753-2664 for information.

1997

('114} 407-95'15

HANG GLIDER EMPORIUM - Best training hill in the west! Full service hang gliding/paragliding shop, established 1974. PO Box 41339, Santa Barbara CJ\ 93140-1339, (805) 965-3733, email: weflyuniv@aol.com HIGH ADVENTURE - Paragliding, hang gliding school. Fquipmenr. sales, service at world famous Marshal Peale USHGA tandem instructor: Rob McKenzie. By appointment year round (909) 883-8488. MAGIC AIR - Located in Northern California. Lessons, sales, service. (707) 96.Fl4 55.

BECAUSE WE CARE ABOUT SAFETY

CRISPI BOOTS MADE IN ITALY FOR PILOTS WORLDWIDE

Removable rear insert and velcro strip for keeping the laces in place. CRISPI PARATEC BOOTS Removable side strenghtheners suede & leather with corduro edge Sympotex lining and Vibrom sole. Multicolor. USS 210 &(rispi Tinos Purple color. No Inserts. USS 1SO

CRISPI AIRBORNE BOOTS Waterproof Nobuk. Vibrom sole. Shock proof Kevlar Tip. No Hooks. Grey with Block color. USS 240

KIWI EVOLUTION HELMET Corban fiber. Only 20 ounces. Well Podded. Allow maximum visibility and installation of earphones . In color White or Block. USS 220

KIWI HYPE HELMET Composite fibers. Only 22 ounces pointed in color White, Block or Lead with thin woter decols and protected cleor coating. USS 210

KIWI PLAIN HELMET Compos~e fibers. Only 22 ounces plain colors White or Block and protected clear cooling. USS 190

AEROLIGHT U.S.A. Inc.: 13SS NW 93 Ct. Unit A-IDS. Miami, FL 33172 Tel: (30S) 639-3330 Email: aerousa@shadow.net Fax: (30S) 639-30SS

FLY MEXICO'S THERMALS THIS WINTER! Do what the birds do, head south! Plush thermals, warm air, cool nights, cheap beer ... what more could a pilot want?

SESSION 1 Sunday, Jan. 18-Sunday, Jan. 25 SESSION l Sunday, Jan. 25-Sunday, Feb. 1

Organized Instruction and XC/thermal coaching provided by GRANGER BANKS, a U.S.H.G.A. advanced tandem instructor with six years' experience taking paraglider pi lots to Mexico. WILL GADD is a tandem instructor, US distance record holder (138 miles), competition pilot and Mexico veteran/fanatic.

LOCATION lgualla, Mexico, two hours from Mexico City or Acapulco. SITE lgualla is famous for its excellent XC opportunities, consistently flyable conditions, a perfect launch and easy drive-up access. It's not only an outstanding site for P2 or better pilots, it's also an amazingly scenic area to visit. COST $900 includes transportation, hotel, and daily guiding. Food and :everything else is cheap.

• Tracer Harness: Loaded - S52s.oo • Ffight Suits: Summer/Winter - SJSs.oo • Reflex Helmet: #1 Best Seller! - s16s.oo • Steerable PDA Reserve: from - S4So.oo • The Legendary Mirage: ask your Dealer for a full AT Package. - - - - AT Paragliding School · Sun • Fun • Soaring Certification • Tours • Mountains • Mexico Motors • Retail Shop • Repairs ••• year 'round!

CONNECTICUT

NEW MEXICO

ECP -

COME LEARN TO FLY - New Mexico's high descrr wirh New Mexico's full-service paragliding school. Advanced/Tandem rated Gary Brightbill offers instruction from beginner to advanced at flying sites across New Mexico. Call for derails (505) 281-2759.

Look under New York.

FLORIDA CLOSEST CERTIFIED SCHOOL - To f<lorida: SOUTHERN SKIES sec North Carolina (704) 6326000.

NEW JERSEY ECI' -

MICHIGAN

Look under New York.

NEW YORK

LEARNTO~ PARAGLIDET ,It Kitty Hawk Kites

Outer Banks, NC Le.ssons Daily Towing & Foor Launch Year Round Sales & Service CALL TODAY! 800-334-4777 919-441-4124

},"-Mail Address hang-glide@outer-banks.com

TRAVERSE CITY HANC GLIDERS/PARAGLIDERS - Put your knees in our breeze and soar our 450' sand dunes. FULL-TIME SHOP. Certified instruction, beginner to advanced, foot launch and tow. Sales, service, accessories for ALL major brands. VISA/MASTERCARD. 1509 E 8th, Traverse City MI 49684. Offering POWERED PARAGLIDING lessons & de,11er for new & used units, incktding the Whisper and rhe Fly. Call Bill at (616) 922-2844. Visit our paragliding school in Jackson, Wyoming. Call Tracie at (507) 7398620.

EAST COAST PARAGLIDING THE NUMBER 1 - Rated USHGA paragliding school in rhe United States 1995, 1996 and the first quarter of 1997. Our premier school and "WORLD CLASS STORE" are conveniently located only 1. 5 hours outside Manhattan in rhe Catskill mountain range. We offer a full spectrum of instruction including our famous TAKE OFF PROGRAM which allows you to learn at your own pace. We now also offer foll-rime rowing at our airport, located only 5 minutes from the shop. Importer of WOODY VALLEY MODEL, AIRWAVE and NOCAL (the US Paragliding World Teams official helmet) products. 150 CANAL STREET, ELLENVILLE NY, SHOP (914) 647-3377, OFFICE (908) 747-7845.

MONTANA AIRWORKS PARAGLIDING LTD - Located in Montana's "Flying Mecca" Missoula. Dealer for major brands. Instruction for all. I'm alw11ys trying-to keep pilots flying. 220 N. Higgins, Missoula MT 59802. (406) 5432850. BIG SKY PARAGLIDlNG - Come fly the Big Sky with advanced rated tandem instructors, specializing in personalized training since 1990. Cemrally located near King Mtn ID, Chelan WA and Golden RC, we offer training, tandems, tours, XC and thermal clinics. Sales and service on all major brands including Edel, Firebird, Flight Design, nv, Ball & morel Visa/MC accepted. (406) 728-2876, wll free 1-800-782-9204. PO Box 7843, Missoula MT 59807. NEVADA ADVENTURE SPORTS - Mountain tours for all levels. USHGA Certified school & ratings. Dealer for all major brands. 3650-22 Research Way, Carson City NV 89706. (702) 883-7070, email: advspts@pryamid.net web sire: http://www.pyramid.net/advspts

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

IKAROS SPORT AVIATION & Spartan Microlight Manufacturing. NYC's first and only certified school for bang gliding, paragliding and trikes. Distributors/dealers for all major brands. Manufacturer for rhe BEST microlights in the world, SPARTAN. New and used equipment at best prices. The most friendly service in NY. For catalog send $5 to: ISA, 381 I Ditmars Blvd #110, Astoria NY 11105. Store: 2931 Newtown Ave., Astoria NY. Phone/fax (718) 777-7000, Internet: http://mernbers.aol.com/ikaros I 1/fly.htm email: ikarosl !(,t)aol.com

OVER THE HILL PARACLIDING - Oregon/SW Washington. Sales, se1vice, beginner-advanced USHGA certified instruction. Nova, Firebird, Apco, AT, Pro Design, SOL, Ball, Flytec, HES Quantum parachutes. Se1vice: full service shop, FAA rigger repairs/mods. Out of stare pilots: We have great thermal, coastal and Gorge sires. Call us for info. There is no sales tax in Oregon! New/used gear. Trades welcome. 22865 SE Yellowhammer, Gresham OR 97080. (503) 667-4557, fax (503) 666-6979. Email: orhpara@teleport.com web: http://www.tcleport.com/-otbpara/

NORTH CAROLINA SOUTHERN SKIES - l'ULLY CERTIFIED full time school and shop. Group discounts Pl thru P4. TANDEM FLIGHTS. Towing clinics. POWERED PARAGLIDING instruction, equipment and service. Beautiful training hills and mountain sites in Virginia and North Carolina. No reservations necessary, START YOUR TRAINING TODAY! Call now (704) 6326000.

1997

HILL COUNTRY PARAGLIDING INC - Learn complete pilot skills. Personalized USHGA certified training, ridge soaring, foot & tow launching in central Texas. MOTORIZED PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE. (915) 3791185. Rt 1, Box 16F, Tow TX 78672. KITE ENTERPRISES - Foor launch, payour winch tow and powered paraglidcr instruction too. Training, sales, rentals and repair. Edel, Aitwave, Wills Wing, UP and DK Whisper. Dallas, f<ort Worth and norrh Texas area. 211 Ellis, Nlen lX 75002. (972) .390-9090 nights, weekends.

UTAH

KENTUCKIANA SOARING Communications Specialist! Best Prices & Best Service!

ABOVE & BEYOND TOLL !-'REE- 1-800-882-7937, vista&1vii.com CLOUD 9 PARAGLIDING - Utah's largest paragliding school. We offer BOTH AM and PM rraining sessions at Point of the Mountain. Para 2 certification i~

$650 for the unlimited lesson package which is 100% applied toward the purchase of new paragliding gear. Call or email for information pack (801) 553-1834. Web sire is www.paraglider.com email at 1nayer@urw.com VlRGINIA CLOSEST CERTIFIED SCHOOL - To Virginia: SOUTHERN SKIES sec North Carolina 1-800-8931555.

THE NEW INCREDIBLE EARMIKF 515, 575 Just plug it into the spcaker/mic outlet in your car and press the ptt button from the control piece when transmitting. Can be fit through your sleeve and attach to your finger with velco. The earpiece is washable. Earmike 51 5 is for (com, Yaesu, Alinco and more. Earmike 575 is for Kenwood. Introductory price for the best mic in the market is $94.95. I.SA ph/fax (718) 7777000.

K!TfY HAWK KITES- Sec North Carolina. WASHINGTON DIXON'S AIRPLAY PARAGLIDING -

This

Northwest training center is located on the Eastern side of the Cascades where the weather is good year round!

HAVE EXTRA EQUIPMENT - Thar you don't know what to do with. Advertise in the Paragliding classified.s. $. 50 per word, $5 minimum. Call USHCA for details (/19) 632-8300, ushga<?,1ushga.org or fax your ad with a Visa/MC, fax (719) (,52-6417.

This 1,600 acre private flight park is ide,tl for the beginner with drive-up open launches and large landing fields. Individualized training with state-of~the-arr equipment, 2-way radios, cornprehensivc ground schooling with an emphasis on micromercorology. Creat new and used inventory. Specialized clinics including the CAGE and BACKPACK MOTORS. One hour from the CHELAN BUTTE. Ask about on-sire lodging and camping. On-sire climbing wall, skiing, mountain biking, etc. Dave Bridges, US Narional Champion says, "Dixon's students are extremely well-trained and competent pilots." Dixon's Paragliding in Washington and Arizona (appointments recommended), 8101 Hay Canyon Road, Cashmere WA 98815. (509) 782-554.o. www.paraglide.com

WISCONSIN RAVEN SKY SPORTS - brgest and most popular in the Midwest. Training hills and winch towing for paragliders. Sales & Service! PO Box 101, Whitewater WI 53190. (414) 473-8800. PARTS & ACCESSORIES AT, EDEL - Pro Design, North American Paragliding and more' Call Kcnruckiana Soaring for your best prices. (812) 288-7111. Be sure to check om our display ad.

Our advertising has a two-month lead time plan ahead. 52

IS IT SOARABLE? - !:le .sure with a USHGA Windsolc Made of 1.5 oz. ripstop nylon, UV treared, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Available colors fluorescent pink/yellow or fluorescent pink/white. $39.95 (+$4.75 S/H). Send to USHGA Windsok, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330, (ll 9) 632-8300, fax (719) 632-6417. VISNMC accepted.

FAX your classified ad, membership renewal or merchandise order:

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

Customer .Satisfaction Guaranteed! OVERSTOCK & CLOSE-OUT ITF.M.S! VARIOS: FLIGHT DECKS NEW BALL GRAPHICS PI.US ....................... $CALL BALL GRAPHICS COMP ........... DEMO ...... $900.00 l:lALL M 19 ....................................................... $360.00 AIRCOTEC Piccolo Plus, Demo ...................... $400.00 DJ(;JFLY ...................................... DEMOS ..... $400.00 fl.YfEC 4010 ............................... l)emo .......... $533.00 1-'LYTEC 4020 .............................. Demo ......... $760.00 FLYTEC: 4030 .................................................... $CALL MALLETTEC ................................................... $159.95 GARMIN GPS .08 ............................................ $159.00 GARMIN GPS 45 ............................................ $299.00 GARMIN GPS 90 ... . ........................... $699.00 HELMETS PELLE & REFLEX Full !-'ace .. ............... OVERSTOCK CLEARANCE .................. .. .. ............... Black & other ugly colors ................. $125.00 PANORAMIC ............................. Full Face ..... $149.00 LEE-1°2, Used, Large w/PTT ........................... $200.00 UVEX . .. ........ Full bee .... $290.00 RADIOS-ALL MODELS AVAILABLE YAESU FTl lR ............................ 5 watr.. ........ $305.00 KENWOOD TH22 ..................... 5 watt ........... $CALL F/C: Fingerswitch/Headset ............. Heavy-Duty .. $89.00 5/8 TELESCOPIC ANTENNA. .. .......... $20.95 5/8 CAIN DUCK ANTENNA .......................... $17.95 EAR TAI .K-SPEAKER/M IC: WSTEM ... Sale ..... $60. 00 VC22 YAFSU Vox/PTT ..................................... $58.95 MOBILE ............................... 50 watt ...... $299-375.00 TUNE UP w/Warranty Intact ...................... $35-50.00 !COM V68 .............................. 137-174mhz ..... $229.00 ALINCO ................ .. .......................... $CALL PARACHUTES WILLS WINC LARA ......... w/Paraswivcl ........... $CALI. HIGH ENERGY QUANTUM ......................... $CALL Edel, NAS, WW, l'roDesign, HES & More' MfSCELLANEOUS ARMADILLO Glider Travclbag ... UV resistant .. $90.00 WIND ADVISORY AIRSPEED W/Clamp ....... $23.00 HALL PARAGLIDElt AIRSPEED...... .. ...... $28.95 HOOK KNIFE ................................................... $14.95 MASON'S TOW RELEASE .............................. $52.00 U-MITTS ............................................... CLEARANCE OVERSTOCK .................................................... $25.00 AVOCET PILOT WATCHES ........................ $114.45 KENTUCKIANA SOARING 425 N Taggart Avenue Clarksville IN 47129 (812) 288-7111 fox (812) 284-4115

Sell your unused equipment here.

PARAGLIDING

Our advertisers appreciate your support and patronage. Tell them you saw their ad in

Paragliding. PUBLICATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS Fingerswitch Radio Headset by Flight Connections. HEAVY-DUTY HEADSET with finger mounted

VIDEOS & FILMS FLY HARD: Viking Films newest release. Rob Whittall, Chris Santacroce & a vintage Buick convertible fi_dl of paragliders. Outrageous flying '1t several west coast flying sites. Meet HG aerobatics champion Mitch McAleer along the way. Excellent rock soundtrack, profes.sionally filmed & edited $.l5.95. POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN by East Coast, hg/pg action at this Utah mecca $29. l'ARAGLIDE: THE MOYIE by Viking Films. Rock-n-roll world class competition at Owens Valley. Professionally filmed & edited $.15.95. DAREDEVIL FLYER III by Tatum Conrnnrnications. Paraglide with the Wills Wing team & friends in scenic Telluride, Colorado $24. 95. Call or fax USHGA (719) 632-8.lOO, fax (719) 632-6417, please add +$4 domestic s/h ( 1 $5

switch allow:-. pilot to communicate while keeping their

for two or more videos). Crear to impre~s your friends or

hands on the conrrol bar or brakes. Safer flying and

for those socked-in days.

more reliable cornmunic1tions. Your instrument is pro-

MISCELLANEOUS

tected with a 90 day mfg warranty with repair service available beyond the warranty. Currently available for Yaesu, Imm, Alinco, Kenwood and other compatible radim. Available for full face or open helmets. $89 +$3. 50 shipping, MC/Visa, dealer inquires invited. Kentuckiana Soaring, 425 N Taggart Ave., Clarksville IN 47129. 1812) 288-7111, fax (812) 284-4115. SPECIALIZING IN ELECTRONICS, RADIOS, VARIOS, GPS UNITS & MORE! MINI VARIO - World's smallest, simplest vario! Clip.s to helmet or chinstrap. 200 hours on batteries, 0-18,000 ft., fast response and 2 year warranty. Grear for paragliding too. ONLY $169. Mallettec, PO Box 15756, Sanra Ana CA, 92735. (714) 966-1240. MC/Visa accq,red. UVF.X SAFETY HELMETS - Made wich Dyneema SK60, German rested to the motorcycle test norm (DIN4848), ultra light & ultra strong, now only $275 with the strong US Dollar 1 Call (509) 925-5565 now. BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

1998 PARAGl.IDINC CALENDARS - German made l 2"x 16" color, classic scenery. A must for every paraglidcr's home. Crear Christmas gifr! $19 plus shipping. Call Aitworks, (406) 543-2850 credit cards welcome.

PARAGLIDING: THE COMPLETE GUIDE - By Noel Whittall. The most complete guide to paragliding on the market. Over 100 color photographs & illustrations, 200 pages, $26.95 +$4.75 s/h. USHGA, PO Box 1.1:\0, Colorado Springs CO 80901. (719) 632-8300, fax your MC/Visa to (719) 6.32-6417, email: ushga~Dushga.org. SOARINC - Monthly magazine of The Soaring Society of America. Inc. Covers all aspects of' soaring flight. Full membership $55. Info. kit wirh sample copy $3. SSA, P.O. Box E, Hobbs, NM 88241. (505) 5921177.

PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Eastcoast Paragliding Cenrer is looking for paragliding instructors ro join its team. For info call Lars Linde at (908) 747-7845. PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTOR WANTED - For growing paragliding program. Raven Sky Sports (414) 473-8800.

Your ad is read by more than 4,000 paragliding enthusiasts. Advertise with us today.

VIDEOS & BOOKS - Call USHGA for your Merchandise order form (719) 632-8300, fax (719) G.'326417, email: ushga@ushga.org DON'T LEAVE YOUR GROUND-BOUND EQUIPMENT SITTING IN THE GARAGE. SELL IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS.

DUMBO - Static winch system for hang gliders and paragliders. Low operating cost, precise line-tension operation. Ideal for clubs, schools and resorts. Operates from a small field, allows step-towing and foot launches. Training available by experienced trainers. For information: Distance De.c,ign, 725 Wiseman, Outrcmont,

Quebec, Canada H2V 5K7, (514) 543-%11. Dealer inquires welcome. dumbowinch@aol.co1n

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

CAL GLOVE Light-weight CABRETTA LEATHER GLOVES, world famous in equestrian circles, are now gaining popularity in the hang gliding, paragliding & parachuting markets. Available in mens, womens & childrens sizes, 9 different colors and priced from $27.95-$39.95. For more info on these superior leather gloves contact: Cal-Glove, 2920 Auburn Blvd, Sacramenro CA 95821. (91G) 481-8701, fax (916) 48111 GS, email: cal-glove@juno.com

1997

Can't afford new equipment? Find great bargains in our classified ad department. 53

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 rnps. !'hone number=2 words, PO Box=2 words, weigh, range i.e. Ll7185lbs=2 words, web site or email addrcss=3 words. MINIMUM AD CHARGE $5.00. A fee of $15.00 is charged for each line art logo and $2'i.OO for each photo. LINEART & PHOTO SIZE NO LARGER THAN !.75" X 2.25". Please underline words to be in bold print. Special layouts of tabs arc $25.00 per column inch. AD DEADLINES: September 20th is the deadline for the November/December issue. Please make checks payable to USHGA. Send to: PARAGLIDlNG MAGAZINE, Classified Advertising, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330 (719) 632-8300 or fox (719) 632-6417, email ushga@ushga.org with your Visa or Mastercard. STOLEN WINGS & THINGS EDEL SABER M - Lost/stolen at KITTREDGE, CO on August 4, 1997. (;old top, white under, frayed brake line on left side, also rainbow colored Ball vario. Mike foster (30.'l) 832-6716. GLIDER MISSING: FLIGHT DESIGN AS SPORT 26 - Blue, 11512091 D. !'lease call (509) 925-5565 if you have seen/have this glider.

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Adventure Productions .......................... 9

Northern Lights .................................. 11

Aerolight USA .................................... 50 Airea ................................................... 43 Airtime of San Francisco ..................... 38

Parafly ................................................. 38 Paragon Productions ........................... 47 Parasoft ............................................... 50 Pro Design ............................ Back Cover Safari Sky Tours .................................... 5

Airwave ............................................... 22 Airworks Paragliding ........................... 13 Alpine Marine .................................. 4, 13 AT Sports ............................................ 50 Brauniger .............................................. 5 Edel ................................................... 2,7

SkySports ............................................ 46 Skytimes Paragliding ........................... 46 SOL .................................................... 35

Flight Design & NAPI. ....................... 19

Sport Aviation Publications ................... 9 Sup' Air ............................................... 22

Fly Products ........................................ 30 Fly Castelluccio ................................... 11 Flytec ............................................. 13,27

UP Paragliding .................................... 55 USHGA .................. 5, 14, 15,31,37,38,54 VISX ..................................................... 9

Hall Brothers ...................................... 46

Wills Wing ......................................... 30

Mini Vario .......................................... 30 Mojo's Gear. ................................... 37,47

Windtech ............................................ 47

FLY HARD Paraglide the western states w/ Rob Whittal & C. Santacroce. Great maneuvers, great sound.35min. $35.95

PARAGLIDING-THE COMPLETE GUIDE by Noel Whittal. The most complete & comprehensive guide on the market today. Over l 00 color photographs. 200 pgs $26.95

PARAGLIDING-A PILOT'S TRAINING MANUAL by Mike Meier/Wills Wing $19, 95 Covers all aspects of paragliding. Equipment, beginner skills, flying techniques & more.

UNDERSTANDING THE SKY by Dennis Pagen. The most complete book on micrometerology for all sport aviators. Plenty of photos & illustrations. $19.95

PARAGLIDE: THE MOVIE World class competition at Owens Valley. Rock-n-roll & plenty of action.40min. $35.95

CLOUDBASE PARAGLIDING Great intro video. Meet the hot pilots & fly the hot sites. 36min. $34.95

POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN PG & HG action at this Utah mecca.52min. $29.00

DAREDEVIL FLYERS Ill-THE PARAGLIDERS As seen on Prime Sports. Paraglide in scenic Telluride, Colorado. 50min. $24.95

MASTERS AT CLOUDBASE A paragliding music video. $19.95

USHGA, PO Box 1330, Colorado Springs CO 80901-1330 l -800-616-6888 Visa/MC fax (719) 632-641 7 Please add s/h (US $4.50 for videos, $5.50 for books. Orders over $50 call!

PARAGLIDING

"'I:5 0 0

ii:

THE

NEW ( Ge l! E r a T I O N )

"' ~ i"' iii

,,,._ new,ntermediate

DHV 1-2

~. .ii m oj os @ t.s'. ar . net

4Ut?:&t4Ui#,1D

WHh Air I.tr Par ag/1ding S1rrut1 Vall•r Bird.

,:zo6A s.. 01010, CA 92121 61--9-J...450, 6696

retefini:qc 1 erfecti•n

PRO-DESIGt! USA, Shasta Air Inc, 2608 Hartnell Ave. #6 Redding, CA 96002 Phone: (916) 222-4606 Fax: (916) 222-4640 PH/FAX: 800-YATES-16 E-MAIL: prodesig@snowcrest.net HOhlEPAGE: ·http://members.ping.at/pro-d/

EAST COAST DEMO CEt!TER: East Coast Paragliding Ellenville, lrY, Phone (914) 674-3377

ROCKY MOUt!TAH! DEMO CEt!TER: Fly Away Paragliding Boulder, CO. Phone (303) 642-0849

WEST COAST DEMO CEt!TER: Skytimes Paragliding San Francisco Bay Area. Phone (415 ) 868-1330 E-MAIL: switzer@hooked.net