USHGA Paragliding November/December 1998 by US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association

19820 Hirsch Court #3 Anderson, CA 96007 530.378.0233

Southwest Service Center Mitch McAleer 29120 Melby Drive Lake Elsinore, Ca 92523 909.67 4.8844

2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive San Diego, CA 92037 619.452.9858

PARAGLIDING • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 1998

AIR MAIL

RATINGS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CLASSIFIEDS

MOUNTAINEERING AND PARAGLIDING by Douglas Hase

USHGA DIRECTORS

Accident Reports

PARAGLIDING INTERVIEWS: GARY BROCK by Steve Roti

UPDATE

1998 USHGA REGIONAL DIRECTOR ELECTION

X-C FLYING IN THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA by Ed Stein

COVER: Steve Mayer, "Cloud 9, "flying at Point ofthe Mountain in Salt Lake City, Utah. Photo by Isabel Gould.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

GLIDER REvlEW:THE FIREBIRD ·IGNITION by Alan Chuculate

1998

DISCLAIMER OF WAR· RANTIES lN.PUBllCA· TIONS, The niaterial pre- . sented here is published as part of an information dissemination servicefor USHGA members. The USHG:A makes no warranties or representation1o and assumes .no liability concernitlg the validity of any advice, opjnion or recommendation expressed in the material. AJ1 individuals relying upon the material do so at their own risk. Copyright © 1998 United States Hang Gliding Assn., Inc. AJ1 rights reserved to Paragliding and individual contributors.

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

Phil Bachman, Executive Director, phbachman@ushga.org Jeff Elgart, Advertising, jjelgart@ushga.org Joanne Peterson, Member Services, rjpeterson@ushga.org Elaine Elgart, Web Administrator, cmelgart@ushga.org Natalie Hinsley, Merchandise Services, njhinsley@ushga.org John Halloran, Administrative Director jghalloran@ushga.org

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

USHGA Officers and Executive Committee:

G.W. Meadows, President Bill Bryden, Vice President Russ Locke, Secretary Geoff Mumford, Treasurer

----~----~----------REGION 1: Bill Bolosky, Steve Roti. REGION 2: Russ Locke, Ray Leonard, Scott Gasparian. REGION 3: Ken Baier, Tammy Burcar, Gregg Lawless. REGION 4: Mark Ferguson, Jim Zeiset. REGION 5: Frank Gillette. REGION 6: Jeff Sinason. REGION 7: Bill Bryden. REGION 8: Randy Adams. REGION 9: Pete Lehmann, Geoff Mumford. REGION 10: G.W. Meadows, Matt Taber. REGION 11: Dave Broyles. REGION 12: Paul Voight. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Ed Pitman, Paul Rikert, Dan Johnson, Jan Johnson, Dennis Pagen. HONORARY DIRECTORS: Chris Dupaul, Bob Hannah, Gene Matthews, Lars Linde, Alan Chuculate, , Ken Brown, Sandy King, Mike Meier, Rob Kells, David Glover, Paul Klemond, Gregg McNamee, Michael Robertson, Greg DeWolf, Tracie Fifer-Welch. EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS: Art Greenfield (NAA). 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 U.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, R,mcho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, phone (949) 8887363, fax (949) 888-7464, e-mail: Gi1Dodgen@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 five times per year (Jan./Feb., March/April, May/June, Sept./Oct., Nov./Dec.) by the United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc., .559 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Suite 101, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903-3657 (719) 632-8300. FAX (719) 632-641 7. PERIODICAL POSTAGE is paid at Colorado Springs, CO and at additional mailing offices.

DK WHISPER CORRECTION

COMBINED MAGAZINE COMMENTS

Dear Editor, Daiichi Kosho Co. LTD, is formally lodging a complaint regarding a notice in a recent issue of Paragliding magazine, page 10, "DK Whisper Advisory," and is kindly requesting an amendment be printed in the upcoming issue. We believe it is most unfortunate that the Paragliding editorial staff did not contact Daiichi Kosho (DK) directly to confirm details of this story, double-check its sources, and gather sufficient evidence before making the decision to print such a warning. The advisory reads as if it were made by Daiichi Kosho or one of its representatives. Ray Kashefi has no association with DK whatsoever, either as a dealer or as a customer who purchased from an authorized dealer or school. He is only trying to stir up trouble for DK and use PG magazine do so. Any pilot who flies responsibly knows that a preflight check of his equipment is a must. Our dealers and customers are strongly urged to inspect all parts and components for stress-related cracks. Needless to say, DK and its agents are most unhappy with Mr. Kashefi and his Skytoy.com, as DK feels it has honestly addressed this problem since it was first discovered in late 1995. DK contacted all customers who purchased their units from authorized dealers. We replaced parts free of charge, and sent factory representatives to dealer locations all over the world to replace parts on their customers' recalled Whisper units. This recall was conducted at considerable expense to DK, however it clearly demonstrates our company's sinceriry and acceptance of responsibiliry for the products it makes and sells. Should you care to investigate this subject further, we would recommend that you contact our customers or dealers who were notified of the problem and subsequently benefited from the recall. By all means speak with our U.S. importer Paraborne Aviation Corp., or any one of the authorized dealers who sold our Beat Whispers between December 1995 and December 1996. Mojo's Gear (Nancy Stanford), AT Paragliding (Sebastian Hassell), SurfThe Sky (Hugh Murphy), Paraglide Washington (Bob Hannah), and Flight Freedom (Kurt Anderson) are but a few of the schools that experienced firsthand DK's recall and could comment on how we acted responsibly. We trust you now have a better understanding of the matter and will take prompt and appropriate action to see that fairness prevails.

Dear Editor, I would like to register my strong disapproval of the proposal to combine Hang Gliding and Paragliding magazines, and then propose some solutions. I should add that, although I have been a hang glider pilot exclusively for the past 19 years, I can certainly see the attraction of paragliding. I also consider many paraglider pilots to be my friends, and I plan to learn paragliding as a second sport. I say "second sport" because I do not consider the two sports to be close enough to be considered "one sport." The necessary training, equipment, techniques and sites, are, on the whole, very different. I would draw your attention to the combined British magazine, Skywings. Skywings has degraded from a dedicated hang gliding publication to a paragliding magazine with an occasional hang gliding story. For avid hang glider pilots the result is a disaster - minimal hang gliding content, and tough to find among the torrents of paragliding stuff. This applies to both articles and ads. It is often necessary to literally search an article or ad to find out if it is relevant to your interests, which is very frustrating and time consuming. It is worth considering some of the forces behind the combined-magazine proposal. It seems that the primary reason is financial, and I accept this as a real challenge. A secondary reason might be advertisers, who perhaps see a joint magazine as a way to "kill two birds with one stone." I have not heard of an upsurge of paraglider pilots wanting to read more about hang gliding, or vice versa. It seems that those with interests in both sports are reasonably happy reading two magazines. Here are some suggestions. My personal pref.. erence is to maintain two different magazines, even if that means a dues increase (first choice) or a reduction in "glossiness" (second choice). I do not consider reduced publication frequency as a viable option. Another possibiliry is to separate the two sports under one cover - front versus back, or right-way-up versus upside-down. Yet another is to designate (with a logo) every single article, letter and ad, as paragliding, hang gliding, or both. When any enterprise is faced with such a fundamental decision it is necessary to refer to the underlying charter or mission statement. We should do this. I suggest that the correct path is to maintain a clear distinction between our magazines, which properly reflects the vast differences between our sports.

Respectfully yours,

Jim Herd Pleasanton, CA

Tom Balogh International Sales Manager Daiichi Kosho Co., LTD

POSTMASTER: SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: PARAGLIDING, P.O. BOX 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1998

VOLUME

9, ISSUE #5

Skywings editor Joe Schofield takes exception to this

criticism ofthe British publication. See his letter in the October issue ojHang Gliding. Members who sent in the reply card included in the July test issue have responded two to one in Javor ofcombining the magazines. - Ed. PARAGLIDING

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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 event. We request two months lead time for regional and national meets.

COMPETITION FEB. 1-12, 1999: Brazilian Paragliding Tour, Governador V aladares. Consistent X-C flying, 3,000-fi:. mountain launchable in any direction with easy retrieval and accommodations. See May/June Paraglidingmaga:zine. $1,195 includes room, meals, transportation to launch, retrieval. Contact: Adventure Sports (702) 883-7070, advspts@pyramid.net, www.pyramid.net/ advspts. FEB. 27-MARCH 5, 1999: 1999NewZea!dnd Paragliding Open Championships, Mt. Borah, Manilla, NSW, Australia. Entry $85 includes limited transport to launch, awards dinner, prizes. 75 pilors max, first come, first served. Cloudbase usually over 3,000 meters, flights over 100 km are common. Faxed credit card entries acceptable. Contact: ph. 01 l-64-3-384-9687, fax 011-64-3384-9644. MARCH 6-13, 1999: 1999 Australian Paragliding Open at Mt. Borah. Entry $160 (Aus.) before Feb. 12, $180 afi:er. Large setup area, fly in nearly all directions. Flatland X-C, cloudbase to 3,000 meters, 100-km X-C flights typical. Phone/fax payment by credit card accepted. Contact: Godfrev Wenness 01 l-61-2-6785-6545, fax 01161-2-6785-6546.

CLINICS/MEETINGS/TOURS NOV.: "Owens at its Best, "X-C!thermalguide to the Owens Valley, with Kari Castle. Two- to nine-day adventures. Private one-on-one flying, guide service and instruction also available. Contact: Kari Castle (760) 872-2087, karicastle@telis.org. NOV. 6-8: Basic and Advanced Paragliding ICP. NOV. 14-15: Paragliding Instructor Testing Program. Cost: Thermal clinic, powered paragliding and instructor training, $300; X-C $500; Mountain Flying and Tandem $200. Location: Point of the Mountain, Draper, UT and Utah mountain sites. Ken Hudonjorgensen is the senior paragliding instructor at Point of the Mountain and has held the Utah X-C record. He is Masterrated, one of four Tandem and ICP Administrators in the U.S., and the first and only paraglider pilot to be awarded the highest Safe Pilot Award (Diamond- 5,000 consecutive safe flights). Contact: Ken Hudonjorgensen, Two-can Fly Paragliding, 474 E. Tonya Dr., Sandy, UT 84070 (801) 572-3414. NOV. 12-29: African Paragliding Safari. 19 adventure-filled days in sunny South Africa. Fly the big sky, extraordinary scenery and wildlife.

Contact: Pine Pienaar (970) 920-0248, climbfly@rof.net. NOV. 27-28: Powered Paragliding Clinic, central California coast. Bring your equipment or demo ours. DEC. 4-5: California Coast Ridge Soaring Clinic, Big Sur to Santa Barbara. Earn your ridge soaring sign-off. DEC. 11-12: Powered Paragliding Clinic. DEC. 18-19: California Coast Ridge Soaring Clinic. All clinics by USHGA-certified Advanced Instructor Hugh Murphy. Contact: Surf The Sky Paragliding (805) 544-8190. NOV. 27-DEC. 6, DEC. 11-20: Chile '98 Tour, by Worldwide Adventure Tours, in the Atacama desert. Additional excursion to Patagonia. Contact: 1-800-727-2354, www.fun2fly.com. NOV. 28-29: Tow Clinic. USHGA instructional clinic and towing sign-off at Torrey Pines, CA. P2 rating required. $99. Contact: David Jebb, Torrey Pines Gliderport, 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr., San Diego, CA 92037 (619) 452-9858, aircal@ix.netcom.com. DEC. 5: Restricted Landing Field Sign-off Enhance spot-landing skills. $50. P2 rated and above. Contact: David Jebb, Torrey Pines Gliderport, 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr., La Jolla/San Diego, CA 92037 (619) 452-9858, aircal@netcom.com. JAN. 2, 1999: Ground Handling Clinic. USHGA instructional clinic for learning ground-handling techniques. Learn compound steering, glider control, launch and landing techniques, etc. $50. Contact: David Jebb, Torrey Pines Gliderport, 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr., San Diego, CA 92037 (619) 452-9858, aircal@ix.netcom.com. JAN. 10-24, 1999: Yates/Pro-Design Fly Ecuador Tours, by Thermal Tracker Aero-Sports. Explore the high Andes, flying among some of the most beautiful peaks in South America. Fly miles of smooth coastal ridge sites. Many activities for nonflying family members. Tours led by local pilot guides with five years of experience. Tour sizes limited, early reservations recommended. Past participant referrals available. Contact: Thermal Tracker Paragliding and Aero-sports, P.O. Box 292, Wolf Creek, OR 97497, (541) 866-2529 (ph./fax), thermaltracker@bigfoot.com. JAN. 16-18, 1999: In!dnd Northwest Paragliding Club Winter Fly-In at Saddle Mountain. HG and PG welcome. Bring wings and skis. Contact: Denton Meier (509) 663-1460. JAN. 17-24, 24-31, 1999: Winter flying in Igua/4 Mexico. Join Parasofi: Paragliding for their 6th year of tours to warm Mexico. Enjoy thermal and X-C coaching in 80° weather in January. Contact Granger Banks (303) 494-2820, parasofi:@csd.net. FEB. 1999: New Zea!dnd Tour by Worldwide Adventure Tours. Three types of trips from rugged to ritzy. Contact: 1-800-727-2354, www.fun2fly.com.

1. Title of publication: PARAGLIDING 2. Publication No. 1089-1846 3. Date of filing: September 8, 1998 4. Frequency of issue: Jan./Feb., March/April, May/June, Sept./Oct., Nov./Dec. 5. No. of issues published annually: 5 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., Suite A-256, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688-1836. 10. Owner: United States Hang Gliding Assn, Inc., 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave. Suite 101, Colorado Springs, CO 80903-3657. Its Officers are: Garner W. Meadows, President, 1125 Harbor View Dr., Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948; William Bryden, Vice President, 6608 N. 100 E. Rd., Seymour, IN 47274; Russ Locke, Secretary, 868 S. Mary Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94087; Geoff Mumford, Treasurer, 750 First St. NE, Washington, DC 20002. 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: May/June 1998 15. Extent and nature of circulation: (A) Total No. copies printed: 5,337 av./issue. preceding 12 mo.; 5,274 for May/June 1998. (B1) Paid circulation through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales: 1,534 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 1,540 for May/June 1998. (B2) Paid or requested mail subscriptions: 3,361 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 3,320 for May/June 1998. (C) Total paid and/or requested circulation: 4,895 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 4,860 for May/June 1998. (D) Free distribution by mail: 12 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 14 for May/June 1998. (E) Free distribution outside the mail: 8 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 12 for May/June 1998. (F) Total free distribution: 20 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 26 for May/June 1998. (G) Total distribution: 4,915 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 4,886 for May/June 1998. (H 1) Copies not distributed - office use, leftovers, spoiled: 300 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 274 for May/June 1998. (H2) Copies not distributed - returns from news agents: 122 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 114 for May/June 1998. (I) Total: 5,337 av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 5,274 for May/June 1998. (J) Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 99% av./issue preceding 12 mo.; 99% for May/June 1998. 16. This statement printed in: Nov./Dec. 1998 issue. 17. I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete. Signed by: Jeff Elgart, Director of Circulation, 9/8/98.

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REGION 5 Frank Gillette (R - 99) Rt 1 Watercyn 8 Declo ID 83323 (208) 654-2615 Watercyn@cyberhighway.net Tracie Fifer-Welch (H - 99) PO Box8225 Jackson WY 83001 (307) 733-6823 di_wyo@compuserve.com

USHGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGION 1 Bill BoloskKi, (R - 98) 24622 SE irrormont Dr Issaquah WA 98027 (425) 557-7981 bolosky@microsoft.com Steve Roti ~ - 99) 3024 NE 18 Ave Portland OR 97212 (503) 284-0995 paragliding@compuserve.com Bob Hannah (H - 98) 9920 51•1 Ave S Seattle WA 98118 (206) 328-1104 paraskr@aol.com

Sandy King (H - 98) 1425 Dunbar Ln Carson Ci~ NV 89704 (702) 849- 851 slark@worldnet.att.net REGION 3 Ken Baier (R - 98) 253 Rodney Ave Encinitas CA 92024 (760) 753-2664 airjunkies@worldnet.att.net Tammy Burcar (R - 99) PO Box 3274 Santa Barbara CA 93130 (805) 692-9908 tburcar@juno.com

REGION 6 Jeff Sinason (R - 99) 12954 Ballantine Ct Saint Louis MO 63146 (314) 542-2473 jsinason@itdcomm.com REGION 7 Bill Bryden (R - 98) (HG Accident Chair) 6608 North 100 East Rd Seymour IN 47274 (812) 497-2327 hm bbryden@hsonline.net Dan Johnson (L - 98) 8 Dorset St St Paul MN 55118 ~51) 450-0930 umulusMan@aol.com

Gre~g Lawless (R - 99) 912 Bittercreek Ln San Diego CA 92129 (619) 484-2056 glawless@sempra-slns.com

Paul Klemond (H - 99) (PG Accident Chair) 3612 NE 43m St Seattle WA 98105 (206) 525-5765 paul@kurious.org

REGION 8 Randy Adams (R - 98) PO Box 369 Claremont NH 03743 (603) 543-1760 randyadams@cyberportal.net

Mike Meier (H - 98) 500 Blueridge Ave Orange CA 92665 (714) 998-6359 mike@willswing.com

REGION 9 Pete Lehmann (R - 99) 5811 Elgin St Pittsburgh PA 15206 (412) 661-3474

Gene Matthews (H - 98) 15308 111 1h Ave NE Bothell WA 98011 (206) 488-1443 skydog@gte.net

Rob Kells (H - 98) 500 Blueridge Ave Orange CA 92665 (71~ 998-6359 rob willswing.com

REGION 2 Rat Leonard (R - 98) 36 O Research Wy #22 Carson Citt NV 89706 (702) 883- 070 advspts@pyramid.net

Alan Chuculate (H - 99) 6709 Salizar St San Die&o CA 92111 (619) 29 -1552 g_achucu@qualcomm.com

LPLehmann@aol.com

Russ Locke (R - 99) 868 S Mary Ave Sunnyvale CA 94087 (408) 737-8745 rsslok@aol.com Scott Gasparian (R- 99A clo LWHS 755 Ocean ve San Francisco CA 94112 (415) 282-2753 gaspo@igi.org Ed Pitman (L - 98) PO Box 188 Shasta CA 96087 (916) 359-2392 epitman@c-zone. net Ken Brown (H - 99) 1795 401h Ave San Francisco CA 94122 (415) 753-9534 kennyb2u@aol.com

Gil Dod~en (Editor) 31441 anta Margarita Pkwy Ste A-256 Reho Sta Marg CA 92688 (714) 888-7363 gildodgen@aol.com REGION4 Mark Ferguson (R - 98) 1173 Ridfceview Cir Broomfie d CO 80020 (303) 931-8075 mark@ballvarios.com Jim Zeiset (R - 99) 13154 County Rd 140 Salida CO 81201 {719) 539-3335 j1mzgreen@aol.com

Geoffrey Mumford (R - 98) APA/PPO 750 First St NE Washington DC 20002 (202) 336-6067 gkm.apa@email.apa.org Dennis Pagen (L - 98) 368 Dunkle Rd Bellefonte PA 16823 (814) 383-2569 pagenbks@lazerlink.com Chris DuPaul (H - 98) PO Box 801 Gloucester Pt VA 23062 (804) 693-6742 skigolfnut@aol.com Art Greenfield (X) 1815 N Ft Meyer Dr Ste 700 Arlington VA 22209 (703) 527-0226 NM@ids2.idsonline.com REGION 10 G.W. Meadows (R - 98) 1125 Harbor View Dr Kill Devil Hills NC 27948 (919) 480-3552 justfly@interpath.com

Matt Taber (R - 99) 7201 Scenic Hwy 189 Rising Fawn GA 30738 (706) 398-3433 airwave@voy.net David Glover (H - 99) 1696 Creek Rd Wildwood GA 30757 (706) 675-8485 airwave@voy.net Gregg McNamee (H - 98) 14141 SE 51"1 Ave Summerfield FL 34491 (352) 245-8263 graybird@praxis.net Grei De Wolf (H - 99) PO ox607 Corolla NC 27927 ~19) 453-4800 eWo1f7@aol.com REGION 11 Dave Bro~les (R - 99) 211 Ellis r Allen TX 75002 (972) 727-3588 broyles@psuedospace.com REGION 12 Paul Voight ~R - 98) 5163 Searsvi le Rd Pine Bush NY 12566 (914) 744-3317 ryanv1 OO@aol.com Jan Johnson (L - 98) PO Box282 Bullville NY 10951 ~914) 747-7845 ec@frontiernet.net Paul Rikert (L - 98) 101 N Broadway # 28-3 White Plains NY 10603 (914) 946-9386 hm Lars Linde (H - 98) 954 W Front St Red Bank NJ 07701 (732) 747-7845 larslinde@compuserve.com REGION 13 (lnt'I) Jan Johnson (L - 98) See Reg 12 Michael Robertson (H - 98) RR 5 865 Con 7 Claremont Ontario Canada L 1Y 1A2 wo5) 294-2536 yhigh@inforamp.net USHGA Executive Director Phil~ Bachman PO ox 1330 Colo Sprin~s CO 80901 (719) 632- 300 wk (719) 632-6417 fax phbachman@ushga.org ushga@ushga.org EXECUTIVE COMMITIEE President-G.W. Meadows Vice President-Bill Bryden Secretary-Russ Locke Treasurer-Geoff Mumford

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

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

POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN PG & HG action at this Utah mecca.52min. $33.00

) MASTERS AT CLOUDBASE

UNDERSTANDING THE SKY

A paragliding music video. $19.95

by Dennis Pagen. The most complete book on micrometerology for all sport aviators. Plenty of photos & illustrations. $19. 95

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

•

• Dedicated to Francis lfogallo Over 500 pages by more than 100 contributors Articles, m11.11str1111tions, !Photographs, Poetry and much more ... !Editors: Jim (Sky Dog) Palmieri & Maggie Palmieri m11.11strator/Cartoonist: Mike Vorhis 'P'Z®*Yii%/Bli\\\'lf1<"Wi1:,ry;wan;wa1t10:"'1"t:.th"'

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AIRSPEED INDICATOR use with optional PATENTED paraglider mounting bracket. Maximize your performance and skill. RUGGED & ACCURATE: Molded of super tough U:XAN ® resin. Stainless steel rod. Cal/brat/on traceable to National ln~tute of Standards and Technology.

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This "one size fits all" radio harness instantly adjusts to hold any radio snugly to your chest without the use of multiple velcro straps or buckles found on lesser quality harnesses. The vertical orientation of the radio improves reception and extends antenna life. Our unique suspension system virtually guarantees that your harness will not bounce or swing. The Adjusta Pro radio harness features all Cordura construction, large bellow cargo pocket, pen pouch and twin elastic antenna keepers .

Phone I Fax (541) 866-2529 ~~~~~I JJ~c~~rf ~~:k~~°R,7497

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hermal Tracker Paragliding now offers the Conterra Adjusta-Pro radio chest harness. Originally designed for ski patrol and mountain rescue use, this "one size fits all" radio harness will instantly adjust to hold any radio snugly to your chest without the use of multiple velcro straps or buckles found on lesser-quality harnesses. The vertical orientation of the radio improves reception and extends antenna life. The unique suspension system virtually guarantees that your harness will not bounce or swing. The harness features all Cordura construction, a large bellows cargo pocket, pen pouch, and twin elastic antenna keepers. It is available for $36.95 shipping paid from Thermal Tracker Paragliding and AeroSports, P.O. Box 292, Wolf Creek, Oregon, 97497 (541) 866-2529, thermaltracker@bigfoot.com.

RENEWAL NOTICE PROBLEMS

800+ per month on the average, are sent out bulk mail through a mail house. We have always used the bulk mail postage rate for all four of these mailings in order to save considerable postage expense. However, one of the members, Ched Hudson, sent in a very thought-provoking e-mail that caused us to reexamine our policy. He pointed out that the membership renewal notice is probably the single most important piece of communication that a member receives from the USHGA office. This prompted us to review our costs, factoring in lost income from non-renewals, etc. We made the decision to go with firstclass postage on the renewal notice. In an effort to help prevent membership from expiring, we are adding something else. Our renewal notice envelopes, beginning with the November mailing, will have large red type on the outside of the envelope which says, "Renewal Notice, Open Immediately. " We appreciate the input from members which help us do a better job. Thanks.

- Phil H Bachman, USHGA Executive Director

e have had several members recently contact the office about not having received their membership renewal notice. Several were grouped in one or two zip codes which raised a suspicion. The USHGA office sends out four standard renewal-related mailings: 1) the renewal notice itself, 2) a one-month expired notice, 3) a six-month expired notice, and 4) a one-

steady," he commented. Mornings saw gusty winds throughout the week, holding up the paragliding flights through much of the early part of the competition. Afternoon conditions were favorable, especially for the Red Bull Aero Team, which regularly performed their paragliding aerobatic stunts for the crowds gathered at North America's premier mountain resort. Local favorite Othar Lawrence, of Carbondale, Colorado, finished seventh overall, taking home top honors among American pilots in the week preceding Independence Day. Said fellow Red Bull athlete Lawrence, "It was a reasonable performance. I feel like I could have placed higher, but given the caliber of the pilots involved I'm still happy in the top 10. It leaves some room to do better next year and I'm looking forward to that. " Lawrence, the 1997 U.S. National Champion, had his hopes set on a top-five finish. While paragliding is still in its infancy in the United States, Red Bull Wings Over Aspen did much to fortify its presence in the U.S. mountain-sports scene. In the hang gliding aerobatics competition, five-time world champion Mitch McAleer continued his dominance of the sport. McAleer regularly gave the event attendees a thrill as he buzzed the finish area at upwards of 60 miles per hour just meters above the crowd. A favorite maneuver in McAleer's repertoire involves flying his hang glider with his feet on the control bar. The Lake Elsinore, California pilot explained, "It really came down to preparation and practice

YP".lr Pv pirPrl nntirP, WP m".lint".lin ".l mf'\nthly

in turbulent conditions. I got here four days

log of all mailings sent out. We reviewed the logs and found an abnormality for the month of September. Our mailing in October, for the month of September onemonth expireds was 340 more notices than we have averaged per month for the entire year. Obviously, something big happened to our September renewal mailing. The standard office procedure is that renewals are sent out two months ahead of the member's expiration month. This process is performed around the 15th of every the month. We do it on the 15th to allow for as much renewal processing as possible so that the computer-generated renewal list is as accurate as we can make it while still getting out notices to the members in a timely fashion. These renewal notices, about

early so I felt very used to both my glider and flying here in Aspen. I did a bunch of homework and I guess it paid off." Red Bull Wings Over Aspen was made possible thanks to Aspen Paragliding, Aspen Skiing Company, Epic Paragliding T-Shirts, KSPN, Parapente Aspen and Red Bull Energy Drink.

SWISS DOMINATE RED BULL WINGS OVER ASPEN

SPEN, CO - The inaugural Red Bull Wings Over Aspen kicked off with Swiss pilots Andy Hediger and Michael Steinbach of the Red Bull TOP Team taking home first and second places respectively in the cross-country paragliding event of the competition. The event saw 50 of the world's finest aerial athletes - like Christian Tamegger, Claire Bernier, Michi Steinbach, Mike Kung, Robbie Whittal, Andy Hediger and Othar Lawrence - descend upon the central Rockies for the week-long competition. Hediger finished first with a string of no-frills, consistent performances throughout the week. "I just look to fly smooth and

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paragliding adventure in sunny Mexico. Enjoy consistently good, summer-like flying in CROSS-COUNTRY PARAGLIDING Valle de Bravo and Igualla. MEN Good thermaling and excellent l) Andy Hediger, Switzerland ....... 2924.1. . $4,000 cross-country potential are the 2) Mickey Steinbach, Switzerland..... 2791.7 .. $3,000 norm at these sites this time of 3) Bob Whittal, England ........... 2552.0 .. $2,000 year. Conditions are appropri4) Emmanuel Depallens, Switzerland .. 2525.8 .. $1,000 ate for a broad variety of skill 5) Christian Tammiger, Austria ...... 2448.8 .... $750 levels, a P2 rating with 50 6) Miguel Gutierrez, Mexico ........ 2403.6 .... $500 flights being the minimum 7) Othar Lawrence, USA ........... 2081.0 .... $500 skill requirement. They will 8) Bodo Gentz, Germany ........... 2072.3 .... $500 provide a comprehensive ther9) Josh Cohn, USA ................ 2059.2 .... $500 mal and X-C clinic as well as 10) Haagen Muelich, Germany ........ 2032.8 .... $500 thorough instruction in active flying and basic maneuvers. WOMEN This is their fourth season in 1) Claire Bernier, France............ 729.3 ... $1,000 Mexico and they will be assist2) Mary Anne Karren, USA ......... 1219.5 .... $750 ed by Mexican paragliding and 3) Cherie Silvera, USA ............. 633.5 ..... $500 hang gliding champion Miguel !JANG GLIDING AEROBATICS FINAL RESULTS Guiterrez. 1) Mitch McAleer, Lake Elsinore, CA . 3964.0 .. $2,500 Valle de Bravo is a beautiful 2) Aaron Swepston, Sumner, WA •... 3888.0 .. $1,000 alpine resort area about two 3) ParisWilllams, SaltLakeCity,UT . 3785.0 .. $1,000 hours outside of Mexico City. 4) EricDelf, Ll\ke Elsjnor(), CA ...... ~66(5.5 It features two major flying 5} CoryJames., Seattle>WA ......•.. 3501.2 sites: El Torre, a scenic lakeside 6) JamesTru.JiUo, 1:ltobmfield, GO ... .)720.1 ridge/thermal site right above 7) DieterGoe.rke,SanDiego,CA.. , .. 3143;1 town, and El Pinon, a major thermal/X-C location with Range. Saturday, August 22 he did it again, potential for excellent flights from big therthis time accompanied by his girlfriend. mal flying to fantastic glass-offs In addition to Valle, they will be making day Shelley Seibel became the second person trips to the sensational sites ofTisca and ever to view the remote peaks and high mountain lakes from above, while dangling Malinalco. Tisca is a spectacular thermal/X-C from a non-motorized piece of nylon. location on the flanks of snow-covered Frank, head tandem instructor at Sun Valley Nevada de Toluca. Malinalco is a ridge and thermal site very close to some of Mexico's Paragliding, and Seibel, a local investment representative for Edward Jones, launched more spectacular pyramids. from the top of Baldy at 11:00 am and shivEach trip includes: transportation (to and from Mexico City Airport), local drivers and ered their way to the tops of thermals at altitudes approaching 15,000 feet. Two hours guides, lodging, courses and clinics, rides to later they landed 35 miles away at the launch and X-C retrieval, parties. Cost is Mackay Fish Hatchery, and became the $875 for the complete one-week tour or Idaho state record holders for open-distance $1,450 for both sessions. A $400 deposit is cross-country flight on a tandem paraglider. required to reserve a spot. Contact: Chris It also marked the 500th tandem flight for Santacroce (801) 255-9595, chris@firebirdusa.com, or Aspen Paragliding, 426 S. Frank from Bald Mtn. in Ketchum. Many thanks to drivers Adam Broussard, Spring St., Aspen, CO 81611, (970) 925Rick Colburn and Chris Santacroce for 7625, fax (970) 925-7710, climbfly@rof.net. post-flight festivities, camaraderie and transportation. ANOTHER FLVTEC WORLD

(Pilot, Country, Points, Prize Money)

RECORD MEXTRAVAGANZA 4

oin Dave Bridges and Chris Santacroce January 9-16 or 16-23, 1999 for a

lytec instruments captures yet another world record. On April 17, 1998, gyroplane pilot Bill Clem took off from

Wauchula, Florida and flew his Dominator gyrocopter N36MR to 24,463 feet, topping the previous record by over 6,000 feet. Bill used a Flytec 4020 Professional, an FAIapproved barograph instrument, to record and document the flight. The barograph trace printed out from the 4020 confirmed the particulars of the flight. Takeoff time 10:03 am, assent time of one hour and 10 minutes, maximum climb rate of 906 ft./min., maximum altitude of 24,463 feet, descent time of 40 minutes, maximum descent rate of 1,713 ft./min., landing time of 11: 51 am, and a total flight time of one hour and 58 minutes. Afrer the FAI granted Bill his world record he told Flytec USA that he plans to modify his gyrocopter and make an attempt to go to 30,000 feet. The standard 4020 will indicate altitude up to 31,000 feet so Bill will be using his 4020 to record this attempt. Flytec also has a high-altitude version of the 4020 that will indicate altitudes in excess of 45,000 feet. This instrument was recently used during Steve Fossett's around-the-world balloon attempt to circumnavigate the globe. Want to break a world record? Contact Flytec USA for more information on the Flytec 4020 professional and the 4030 GPS Access (PAI-approved barograph) instruments. Contact: 1-800-662-2449, (352) 332-8675, fax (352) 332-8676, usaflytec@aol.com.

"CONFESSIONS" CORRECTION he last issue of Paragliding included an

outdated version of Mike Steed's "Confessions" article. A current version can be requested at steed@proaxis.com. In particular, it provides the missing description of Figure 2: " ... the next logical step in wing tip steering. First, get rid of free brake lines; all lines attach to fixed risers. Split the C-riser two ways (Cl, C2), and split the 0-riser three ways (01, 02, 03). The steering handles attach to each 03 riser with a short line to the quick link. They also attach indirectly to 02 and C2 with lines through a pulley at each. Pulling on the steering control pulls the wing tip most, and the other two lines half as much. As you pull further, the 02 pulley runs out of rope and pulls directly, for better canopy control. Speed bar operation is

Continued on page 54. PARAGLIDING

for Paraglider Pilots Important Reasons to Request Yours Today! No Annual Fee Low Fixed Introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on cash advance checks and balance transfers $l million Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance with the Platinum Plus Card* Credit line increase decisions in 30 minutes or less 24-Hour Customer satisfaction

can 1.. soo . s23"766& Please Mention Prioritv CvdeJLWO When Calling.

Choose between United States Hang Gliding Association Platinum Plus" Visa® or the Preferred Visa Each time you make a purchase with your USHGA Visa, you are helping to support USHGNs efforts in preserving our flying sites

There are costs associated with the use of rhis credit c.ard. You may contact the 1.<.suer ,md administrator of th1~ prowam, MBNA America"' Bank, to reque~t specific infi:irmarion abour the Lmts by callrng l-800-)21-7666 or hy writing ro PO Box 15020, Wilmingmn, DE 19850. *Certain rcsrntrions llpply to this benellr and other.<, descnbed rn the materials sent soon after your acc.oum 1~ opened. Preferred Cm\ Customer benefits differ from Plr11in11m Pl/(\ benefits: Common Carrier Travel A(( ident Insurance coverage 1s up to $150,000; and rhere are add1rional costs for Registry benefits. MBNA America, MBNA, and P!t1tinHl!I Pim are service marks ofMllNA Amenca Bank, N.A. Visa 1s a federally registered serv1te mark of Visa U.S.A. Inc., useJ pursuant to license. ({) 1998 MllNA America llank, N.A. ADG-JACE-9/98 AD-09-98-00!0

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Please check one: Hang Gliding Paragliding Cl Both Divisions - $79.00 U.S. ($96.00 Non-U.S.*) ............................... . FAMILY MEMBER: (Includes all benefits except magazine. MUST reside with

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**************************************************************************************************************** OTHER OPTIONAL SERVICES 1ST CLASS MAIL SERVICE - HANG GLIDING MAGAZINE: ($24.00-U.S., Canada, & Mexico only) .................. $_ _ _ _ __ AIR MAIL SERVICE - HANG GLIDING MAGAZINE: ($30.00-Westem Hemisphere, $40.00-Europe, $50.00-All Others) .... $_ _ _ _ __ IlST CLASS MAIL SERVICE - PARAGLIDING MAGAZINE: ($12.00-U.S., Canada, & Mexico only) ................... $_ _ _ _ __ AIR MAIL SERVICE - PARAGLIDING MAGAZINE: ($15.00-Western Hemisphere, $20.00-Europe, $25.00-All Others) ..... $_ _ _ _ __ NAA MEMBERSHIP: ($10.00 annual dues) .......................................................................... $_ _ _ _ __ FAI SPORTING LICENCE: ($18.00 annual fee)

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USHGA, PO BOX 1330, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80901-1330 (719) 632-8300 FAX (719) 632-6417

(03/97)

RELEASE, WAIVER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT 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. "MY 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 PARTICIPATION 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; D 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 MY 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 MY 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 all, 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. IE. 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

F. I VOLUNTARILY ASSUME All RISKS, KNOWN AND UNKNOWN, Of MY SPORTS l/RIES, HOWEVER CAUSED, EVEN IF CAUSED iN WHOLE OR IN PART BY THE ACTION, INACTION, OR NEGLIGENCE Of THE RELEASED PARTIES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. I have read, understand, and agree to the above RELEASE, WAIVER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT.

fJrtkipJnt's Signature

Date MR-8/97

USHGA MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM

CALENDARS

PRICE

USHGA 1998 HANG GLIDING CALENDAR- Excellent photography..... (Reg $9.95) SALE 11b

$ 5.00

QTY Total Weight TOTAL $_ __

PUBLICATIONS .,;'(TOWING ALOFT by Dennis Pagen/Bill Bryden. Covers ALL aspects of towing. 372 pgs. 31b .,;'(PARAGLIDING-THE COMPLETE GUIDE by Noel Whittall. Comprehensive, color. 200 pgs. 21b "SPECIAL NEW PILOT" Magazine. Paragliding or Hang Gliding (circle one). Buy both! . . . . 7oz NEW-SKY ADVENTURES 36 hg stories by 32 hg authors. Informative & entertaining. 240 pgs . 11b UNDERSTANDING THE SKY by D. Pagen. THE most complete book on micrometerology. 21b PARAGLIDING-A PILOT'S TRAINING MANUAL by M.Meier/Wills Wing. Covers all aspects. 21b ACCESS & THE GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORT ENVIRONMENT by B. Moorman. 21b DOWNWIND by Larry Fleming. Share the experience of over 20 years of hg flight. . . . . . . 11b A RISK MGMT MANUAL by Michael Robertson. Used in IC P's, withe Charts of Reliability. 11b RECORD ATTEMPT KIT Includes all forms needed for national & world record attempts. 21b FLIGHT LOG BOOK The Official USHGA flight log book. 40 pages. Log those flights! ... 2oz . 2oz CERTIFICATION BOOKLETS Document your skill level sign-offs. Specify PG or HG.

$29.95 $26.95 $ 4.95 $14.95 $19.95 $19.95 $19.95 $10.95 $ 9.95 $15.00 $ 2.95 $ 1.95

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$19.95 $35.95 $33.00 $35.95 $34.95 $33.00

$ $ $ $ $ $

$10.00 $39.95 $ 3.00 $ .50 $ 1.50 $ 6.50

$ _ __ $_ __ $_ __ $_ __ $ _ __ $_ __

VIDEOS MASTERS AT CLOUDBASEJ\ A paragliding music video, set to hard hitting music. (20 min) 11b FLY HARD Rob Whittal & C. Santacroce paraglide the westcoast. Rock soundtrack. (36 min) .. . 1lb POINT OF THE MTN (Utah) HG & PG action at one of America's favorite sites. (52 min) . 11b PG: THE MOVIE Owen's Valley world competition. Hot action, rockin' soundtrack. (40 min).. 11b CLOUDBASE PARAGLIDING Great intro. video. Meet the hot pilots, fly the hot sites. (36 min) . 11b HAWAIIAN Fl YIN' HG & PG in Paradise. Amazing launches & awesome scenery! (46 min) 11b All our videos are in USANHS NTSC format only.

MISC. USHGA PHONE CARD 25¢ per minute long distance rate, specify hg or pg card, includes 30 min .. WINDSOK™ 1.5 oz. ripstop nylon, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Pink/yellow or pink/white (circle one). 21b WINDSEEKER Hang glider flying model. It loops & soars. Lots of fun to fly, you'll want two ... 15oz USHGA EMBLEM DECAL Our original logo, in its original colors, on a 3" circular sticker. . . .1oz USHGA SEW-ON EMBLEM Our original logo, in its original colors, on a 3" circular patch .... . 1oz LICENSE PLATE FRAME Chrome plated. I'd Rather Be Paragliding. . . . . . . . . . 11b PAYMENT must be included with your order. NON-USA orders must be in U.S. FUNDS drawn on a U.S. BANK!

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TOTAL$ _ _ __

Send to: Name_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ USHGA # _ _ _ _ _ Phone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Street Address (if possible) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

United States Hang Gliding Assn., PO Box 1330, Colorado Springs CO 80901-1330 (719) 632-8300 1-800-616-6888 www.ushga.org fax (719) 632-6417 email: ushga@ushga.org

GOLD SAFE PILOT AWARDS JIM DONALDSON

5TH DIAMOND SAFE PILOT AWARDS DIXON WHITE

BRONZE LILIENTHAL AWARDS GUNTER SCHMIDT

SILVER LILIENTHAL AWARDS GUNTER SCHMIDT

BEGINNER RATINGS Region l ACKELS, DEL: Vancouver, WA; L. Pindar/Over the Hill PG ANDERSON, GARY: Bremerton, WA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG BADGER, ERIK: Seattle, WA; M. DeVietti!Dixon's Airplay PG BAGLEY, LINDA: Mukilteo, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG BAKER, ROB: Girdwood, AK; D. Ryan/Chugach PG BARRY, SHANNON: Tacoma, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG BERKHEMEL, LONNIE: Selah, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG BRIGHT, JASON: Wolf Creek, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG BRIGHT, SUSAN: Wolf Creek, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG CLINE, THADDEUS: Seattle, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School DAMORE, FRANK: Port Townsend, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG DAMORE, GINNA: Port Townsend, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG DENNIE, TREVOR: Seattle, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG EDENS, RONALD: Seattle, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG EVANS, BRADY: Bellevue, WA; C. Mullack/Chelan PG HUGHES, THAYER: Kirkland, WA; C. Mullack/Chelan PG KUBIC, JAN: Portland, OR; B. Hill/Over the Hill PG LEIMAN, JACK: Gig Harbor, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG LUM, JONATHAN: Mercer Island, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG LUM, MATTHEW: Mercer Island, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG LYLE, N CRAIG: Walla Walla, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG MAGEE, MIKE: Puyallup, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washington MONTOYA, JASON: Eugene, OR; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG NAUCLER, SCOTT: Seattle, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School OLIVE, RONALD: Seattle, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG QUIGLEY, PATRICK: Washougal, WA; L. Pindar/Over the Hill PG RASPONE, PAUL: Clarkston, WA; F.S. Johnson/U.S. Airborne REED, DENISE: Anchorage, AK; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG SAMS, STEVE: Issaquah, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG TAM, AMY: Seattle, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG TWYMAN, BYRON: Portland, OR; S. Roti/Mt. Bachelor PG WALDEN, EVELIN: Port Townsend, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG WALDEN, JOE: Port Townsend, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG WALTON, RICHARD: Klamath Falls, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG WARD, GREGORY: Issaquah, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG WILLOUGHBY, BRIAN: Bellevue, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG Region 2 CREMEANS, PARREY: Redding, CA; E. Hern/Skyn4hi PG DE CEUSTER, DENIS: Los Gatos, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell GRISWOLD, RAY: San Anselmo, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure HADLAND, NICK: Santa Clara, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell HALLSTEIN, ERIC: Oakland, CA; R. Kocurek/Air Link PG HERRIN, STEPHEN: Peta Luma, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School IBARRARAN, JORGE: Burlingame, CA; J. Yates/Skytimes PG LINSCOTT, ELBA: San Jose, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF MAC NIVEN, TYLER: Lahonda, CA;J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF MC BRIDE, RUSSELL: Oakland, CA; J. VanMeter/Airtime NATA, SHIGETAKA: San Jose, CA; H. Rejmanek/Airrime of SF

NEARY, MITCHELL: S Lake Tahoe, CA; S. Jolicoeur/Adventure Addicts REISING, JOHN: Alameda, CA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG SEGLER, CHRISTOPHER: Pacifica, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF TATUM, PAUL: Sebastapol, CA; J. Yates/Skytimes PG ZVLKA, SANDRA: San Mateo, CA; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG Region3 BRIGHT, STEVE: Ojai, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All BRODY, RICHARD: Simi Valley, CA; M. Bell/Discover Flight COLLIER, DAN: Spring Valley, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport DAINSBERG, ANDREW: Oxnard, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All DELL, ALEX: Lake Forest, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport ETTIENNE, STEPHANIE: Venice, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure GARDNER, JAMES: Santa Barbara, CA; M. Axen/Fly Away PG GARDNER, KIRK: San Diego, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport HOLZGROVE, JUSTIN: Honolulu, HI; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG LATHRO, TONY: Lahaina, HI; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG LILIKER, KAREN: Honolulu, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG NIMMO, BILL: San Diego, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport NORTON, FRANK: Laguna Hills, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky OKUMATSU, TOSHIHIRO: Encino, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All REES, JESSICA: Santa Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All REINKE, WM: Lahabra, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure SCOTT, MICHELE: Goleta, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All SUZUKI, TAKAHIRO: Los Angeles, CA; J. Williams/Air America PG URICH, JACK: Temecula, CA; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits URICH, JUSTIN: Temecula, CA; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits URICH III, JACK: Temecula, CA; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits WILSON, GREG: San Diego, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport Region 4 BARLAGE, BRAD: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CARLISLE, F DANIEL: Provo, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CARR, REBECCA: Telluride, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CROSSLEY, JERRY: Smithfield, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HAYES, KJERSTEN: Colorado Spgs, CO; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School HEIDER, DENNIS: Englewood, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG KINNEY, MIKE: Murray, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond PG KNAPP, HEIDI: Aurora, CO; K. Knapp/Parasoft PG KUPER, JUDAH: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride LESSARD, LUCIE: Murray, UT; K.1-Iudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond PG MACE, WILL: Sandy, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MILLWARD, NATE: Ephraim, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG PIELA, CHRIS: Crested Butte, CO; R. Kocurek/Air Link PG REAM, TED: Draper, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SCHWILLING, LORI: Holladay, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SNITSELAAR, CARL: Durango, CO; R. Kocurek/Air Ling PG SOIFER, ROBIN: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG STATHAM, JASON: American Fork, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG VICTORIA, REGINA: Denver, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG ZARBOCK, RON: Salt Lake City, UT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center Region 5 BLOXHAM, JANET: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Mm PG BREDEHOFT, PATRICK: Billings, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG BREDEHOFT, WILLIAM: Billings, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG HOLLAND, JOANNE: Hailey, ID; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders HOLLAND, ROBERT: Hailey, ID; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders MALARKEY, HUNTINGTON: Hailey, ID; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders PEARSON, JOHN: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Thermal Explorations RENCHER, JAREM: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Mm PG SHARP, DAVID: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Mm PG Continued on page 23.

PARAGLIDI:-.JG

YOU WORK HARO ENOUGH WHEN YOU ARE WORKING. YOU SHOULON'T BE WORKING HARO WHEN YOU'RE HAVING FUN.

These things are fun: Top of the stack soaring performance. Easy, relaxed ground handling, launching and flying characteristics. The security of DHV Certification .

The confidence that comes from quality design and manufacturing.

The art of flying .

No hassles with service - reliable, available, and still here tomorrow. Low cost of ownership .

I t r a I I

i n

a 5

s s,ze

DHV , - 2 • M , L , XL s ,zcs

DHV 2 •

DHV 2 • S , M , L , s,zes

DHV 1 - 2 • T w ,n ( Tcm de m ) s ,ze

Area

Span

A/R

Root Tip

min max

Area

Span A/R

Canopy material lines

med

large

22.3 10 4.44

24.2 10.4 4.44

26.2 10.8 4.44

med

large

25.43 9.89 3.95

27.51 10.29 3.85 3.1 4 o,63 75-95 21

29.66 10.68 3.85 3.26 0.66

3.02 0.61 60-80 21 44 I/Std

Toray nylon66,44g/m2

Technora - aramide

Pilot Weight

Trim Max Sink Rate (approx)"

small

m m kg km/h km/h

small 23.43 9.49 3.85 2.9 0.58 50-65 21 44 Std

50- 70

km/h km/h

35-38 47-51

35-38 35-38 47-51 47-51

m/s

1.05

Area

Span A/R

min

kg km/h km/h m/s

small

med

large

22.92 9.62 4.04 50-70 20 47 1.1

24.36 9.92 4.04

26.35 10.32 4.04 70-90 20 47 1.1

28.41 10.71 4.04

60-80 20 47 1.1

47 1.1

HARNESSES BALANCE DELUX Our most popular harness. The Balance harness, with a 14cm dorsal back protector and two hinging impact protectors per side, is the full feature harness of the future. Along with ample side pocket storage and a generous ballast storage area. The Balance has click buckles, a revolutionary new reserve handle and too many other features to mention. $500

BALANCE STANDARD All the comfort and protection of the delux harness, simplified without back mount reserve or side pockets. $460

WOODY VALLEY MODELS Edel teams up with Woody Valley to offer the excellent X-Act and specialized X-Over race harnesses.These complement our own range of harnesses and offer pilots a greater choice of styles and features.

X-Over $580 X-Act

Area Span A/R

Root

m m m

Tip Total Height

large

23.83 10.81 4.90

25.77 11.24 4.90

73-88

85- 103

km/h km/h

40 60

Span A/R

Trim Max Sink Rate (approx)·

med

Area

m/s

39.45 12.28 3.82

3.686 0.593 9.0

Min Max

km/h km/h

20 40

Woody Valley's top harness. In proud Italian style, it offers supreme comfort and protection in an elegantly distinctive fashion. Front Mount reserve. Includes everything you would expect from a top of the line harness; Automatic Quick Click buckles and karabiners, the best fittings and materials with the highest quality construction. Available in three sizes. $550

FLIGHT SUITS After two years of field testing and pilot comment, Edel has developed a waterproof, breathable outer shell of Fine Tex reinforced at the shoulders and knees with Dupont Keynote. Elastic leg loops hold legs down when flying . Lengthened Sleeves with velcro cuff closure for covering any size glove. Generous upper body cut for freedom of movement. Redesigned liner makes it easy to get on or off. $240

NOCAI HELMETS Elegant light weight full face helmets. Three styles to chose from. $82-$150

RESERVE CHUTE RS II 38 $4so SECURAMAX (TANDEM) 52 $s20

29120 Melby Drive Lake Elsinore, Ca 92523 909.67 4.8844

2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive San Diego, CA 92037 619.452.9858

PARAGLIDERS

A~URt YOUR fLIGHT~ I MILt~ NOT MINUTt~ ... HI GHU T BUI LD-QU ALI TY &MATE RI ALS DHV & AFNOR CfRTIFICAT IONS PERFORMANO DR IVE N DESIGN

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via C. Bilttkf 13 Grollomm(( e 63013(AP) Tel/Fox: +39 735 632486 M bile +39 337 652734 www.insine .it/fly email: lly@insinel.il AEROLIGHT USA, Inc., 1355 N.W. 93 Ct. Unit A-105, Miami, FL 33172 • Tel: (305) 639-3330, Fax: (305) 639-3055•paragliding@aerolight.com, http://www.aerolight.com

Professional Tow Gear for the Fanatic

DESIGN WIZARDRY =:=:;;!~ by MESCALITO tel 604-858-2300 • fax 858-3080 • mesc@uniserve.com • http://www.mescalito.com

Continued from page 18. Region 6 ECKERSON, ANDREW: Lincoln, NE; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders ECKERSON, PAUL: Lincoln, NE; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders Region 7 HOLLMER, STEVEN: Elk River, MN; B. Hannah/PG Washingron LLOYD, KEVIN: Dawson, IL; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG Region8 BULGER, M JANE: Arlingron, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP DIOT, FREDERIC: Bloomfield, CT; P. Renaudin/GMI PG HOWELL, ALLEYNE: Vershire, VT; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP HOWELL, KATHERINE: Vershire, VT; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP LAMBIE, TIM: Billerica, MA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG MACLEOD, ED: Chelmsford, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP MUZAJR, STEPHEN: Medway, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP NIXON, BOB: Castleton, VT; J. Atwood/Earth & Sky Adventures Region9 CROUT, DOUGLAS: Elizabethtown, PA; R. Liggett/Eastcoast PG DE LA CUESTA, ALBAR: Wilmington, DE; A. Chuculate/Air Apparent FRITZINGER, KEITH: Slatingron, PA; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG LONSTEIN, PAUL: Bellefonte, PA; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG LOUGHERY, FRANK: Fairmont, WV; T. Lavictoire/Kitty Hawk Kites NESTOR, DANIEL: Wilmington, DE; A. Chuculate/Air Apparent PALMAZ, MARTIN: Blacksburg, VA; A. Palmaz/Aspen PG WOLFE, GRANT: Walnut Pott, PA; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG ZEGER, ANDREA: Mercersberg, PA; T. Lavictoire/Kitty Hawk Kites Region 10 BOERS, JR, DAVID: Windermere, FL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG BOERS, SR, DAVID: Windermere, FL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG FOUST, KENNETH: Kernersville, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG JENSEN, JOHN: Alpharetta, GA; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG JENSEN, YVONNE: Alpharetta, GA; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG JONES, TOM: Asheboro, NC; T. Lavictoire/Kitty Hawk Kites KEISLER, LISA: Carrboro, NC; T. Lavictoire/Kitty Hawk Kites MOODY, JAMES: Carrboro, NC; T. Lavictoire/Kitty Hawk Kites PARKER, JR, JAMES: Atlanta, GA; C. Bowles/Souther Skies PG PARROTT, JASON: Winston-Salem, NC; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SLAGLE, TOM: Gray, GA; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG STUBBS, NEAL: Brandon, FL; K. HustedNail Valley PG VON SCHEELE, CLAES: Cary, NC; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG WITT, WILLIAM: Winston-Salem, NC; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 11 BUSSARD, NOEL: Irving, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG HULMES, LEANNE: S Lake Tahoe, CA; S. Jolicoeur/Adventure Addicts MAY, DAVID: Keene, TX; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG REEVES, MICHAEL: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG SKINNER, GARY: Spring, TX; A. Chuculate/Air Apparent Region 12 AlKEN, RICHARD: New York, NY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG AlNGE, STEPHEN: Southampton, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG AlNGE, TRUDY: Southampton, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG DONOHUE, VINCENT: Baldwin, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG FULLER, LINDA: Kings Point, NY; E. Pienaar/Aspen PG HAWKS, ROXANNA: Kings Point, NY; M Taggart/Aspen PG HURD, CLARENCE: Baldwinsville, NY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG JOYE, DANIEL: Carmel, NY; P. Renaudin/GMI PG MARINS, FRANK: West Harrison, NY; R. Liggett/Eastcoast PG MATZ, MICHELE: Dobbs Ferry, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1998

MILICH, LUKE: New York, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG SIERMARCO, GEORGE: Ringwood, NJ; R. Liggett/Eastcoast PG SILLERO, JOHN: Glens Falls, NY; J. Atwood/Earth & Sky Adventures TRANG, LAM: Pine Plains, NY; R. Liggett/Eastcoast PG WEI, BOWEN: Brooklyn, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG Region 13 SMITH, COLIN: England; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport

NOVICE RATINGS Region 1 ANDERSON, GARY: Bremerton, WA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG BADGER, ERIK: Seattle, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG BAGLEY, KEVIN: Mukilteo, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG BANISTER, KYNDEL: Everett, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School BLUST, KARL: Eagle Point, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG BOND, HAROLD: Shoreline, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG CASTILLO, STEVE: Prineville, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports CHESNUT, TOM: Springfield, OR; P. Pohl/Sky Hook Sports CURRY, CLIFF: Seattle, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School DAMORE, FRANK: Pott Townsend, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG DAMORE, GINNA: Pott Townsend, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG DE BILL, KARA: Mercer Island, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG EVANS, BRADY: Bellevue, WA; C. Mullack/Chelan PG FABBRI, JR, LOUIS: Chugiak, AK; B. Hamler/Golden Eagle PG GUPTA, SANJAY: Seattle, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG HUGHES, THAYER: Kirkland, WA; C. Mullack/Chelan PG KELLER, FORREST: Vashon, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washingron KUBIC, JAN: Portland, OR; L. Pindar/Over the Hill PG LEIMAN, JACK: Gig Harbor, WA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG LUM, MATTHEW: Mercer Island, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG MADEOY, MIKE: Issaquah, WA; C. Mulack/Tiger Men PG MAGEE, MIKE: Puyallup, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washingron MATHEWSON, DEANE: Hobart, WA; J. Meyers/Aircek PG MIKUS, JEFFREY: Issaquah, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School MONTOYA, JASON: Eugene, OR; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MOORE, MAITHEW: Woodinville, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School NAUCLER, SCOTT: Seattle, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School NEWHALL, GREG: Bellevue, WA; C. Mulack/Tiger Mtn PG PETERS,JIM: Seattle, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon'sAirplay PG TAM, AMY: Seattle, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG TROLLAN, CHRIS: Juneau, AK; G. Randall/Flying Dreams PG WALDEN, JOE: Port Townsend, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG WALTON, RICHARD: Klamath Falls, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG WARD, GREGORY: Issaquah, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG WILSON, JAMES: Maple Valley, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School Region 2 DE CEUSTER, DENIS: Los Gatos, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell GREENBLATT, JILL: San Francisco, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF GRISWOLD, RAY: San Anselmo, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure HADLAND, NICK: Santa Clara, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell HALLSTEIN, ERIC: Oakland, CA; R. Kocurek/Air Link PG HERRIN, STEPHEN: Peta Luma, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School IBARRARAN, JORGE: Burlingame, CA; J. Yates/Skytimes PG LINSCOTT, DARREN: San Jose, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF LINSCOTT, ELBA: San Jose, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF MAC NIVEN, 1YLER: Lahonda, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF MC BRIDE, RUSSELL: Oakland, CA; J. VanMeter/Airtime NATA, SHIGETAKA: San Jose, CA; H. Rejmanek!Airtime of SF NEARY, MITCHELL: S Lake Tahoe, CA; S. Jolicoeur/Adventure Addicts RAFAL, RONALD: S Lake Tahoe, CA; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports REISING, JOHN: Alameda, CA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG

SEGLER, CHRISTOPHER: Pacifica, CA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF SUTER, GEORGE: San Francisco, CA; R. Osc/Blackwing PG TATUM, PAUL: Sebastapol, CA; J. Yaces/Skytimes PG TRUE, OWEN: San Bruno, CA; J. Van Meter/Westcoast PG '.ZYLKA, SANDRA: San Mateo, CA; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG Region 3 AKERS, JUNE: Honolulu, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG BRIGHT, STEVE: Ojai, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All COLLIER, DAN: Spring Valley, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport DAINSBERG, ANDREW: Oxnard, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All DELL, ALEX Lake Forest, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport DUNLAP, CLAYTON: Newpott Beach, CA; M. DeBarros/Acmosphere PG EDWARDS, MONICA: Orange, CA; T. Truax/Sky Spores ETTIENNE, STEPHANIE: Venice, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure GARDNER, JAMES: Santa Barbara, CA; M. Axen/Fly Away PG GARDNER, KIRK: San Diego, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport GRUPE, DONALD: Newport Beach, CA; S. Hassell/Airtek LATHRO, TONY: Lahaina, HI; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG LILIKER, KAREN: Honolulu, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG NIMMO, BILL: San Diego, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport NORTON, FRANK: Laguna Hills, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky OKUMATSU, TOSHIHIRO: Encino, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All REES, JESSICA: Santa Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All REINKE, WM: Lahabra, CA; R. McKenzie/High Adventure ROBERTS, JAMES: Honolulu, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG SCHWEPKER, JOHN: San Diego, CA; S. Hassell/Airtek SCOTT, MICHELE: Goleta, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All WILSON, GREG: San Diego, CA; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderpott Region4 BARLAGE, BRAD: Sale Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG BENCOSME, ARTORO: Boulder, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PG CARLISLE, F DANIEL: Provo, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CARR, REBECCA: Telluride, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CROSSLEY, JERRY: Smithfield, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HAYES, KJERSTEN: Colorado Spgs, CO; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School HEIDER, DENNIS: Englewood, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG HENRY II, PATRICK: Aspen, CO; J. Stenstadvold/The Flying Heney' s HORNER, GLENN: Boulder, CO; K. Knapp/Parasoft PG KINNEY, MIKE: Murray, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond KUPER, JUDAH: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowcy/Paraglide Telluride LESSARD, LUCIE: Murray, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond MACE, WILL: Sandy, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MILLWARD, NATE: Ephraim, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG PIELA, CHRIS: Crested Burce, CO; R. Kocurek/Air Link PG REAM, TED: Draper, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SCHWILLING, LORI: Holladay, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SEDERBERG, SHAHN: Lakewood, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PG SNITSELAAR, CARL: Durango, CO; R. Kocurek/Air Ling PG SOIFER, ROBIN: Sale Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SOTO, JAVIER: Colo Springs, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PG STATHAM,JASON: American Fork, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG VICTORIA, REGINA: Denver, CO; W. Laurence/Fly Away PG WILLIAMS, JOHN: Sale Lake City, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Above & Beyond ZARBOCK, RON: Sale Lake City, UT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center Region 5 ALBANO, BILL: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Men PG LAUDER, SCOTT: Pocatello, ID; B. Bloxham/King Men PG LOWHAM, DOUG: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Thermal Explorations MC DANIEL, CHRIS: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Men PG PEARSON, JOHN: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Thermal Explorations REYES, BENNY: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Men PG

SHARP, DAVID: Idaho Falls, ID; B. Bloxham/King Men PG WEBB, MIKE: Teton Village, WY; S. Harris/Thermal Explorations WILCOX, TODD: Jackson, WY; T. Bartlett/Peak PG Region 7 GLANZ, STEVEN: E Lansing, Ml; P.SchallerFranco/New York PG Center LLOYD, KEVIN: Dawson, IL; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG Region 8 BURKS, STEVEN: Vergennes, VT; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP DIOT, FREDERIC: Bloomfield, CT; P. Renaudin/GMI PG MUZAJR, STEPHEN: Medway, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP RICHER, RENEE: Cambridge, MA; J. Van Meter/Airtime of SF ROWELL, SIMON: Framingham, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP Region 9 CROUT, DOUGLAS: Elizabethtown, PA; R. Liggecc/Eastcoast PG DE LA CUESTA, ALBAR: Wilmington, DE; A. Chuculace/Air Apparent LONSTEIN, PAUL: Bellefonte, PA; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG PALMAZ, MARTIN: Blacksburg, VA; A. Palmaz/Aspen PG Region 10 FOUST, KENNETH: Kernersville, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG JENSEN, JOHN: Alpharetta, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PARKER, JR, JAMES: Atlanta, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PARROTT, JASON: Winston-Salem, NC; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG PLESSER, RONEN: Durham, NC; A. Palmaz/Aspen PG VON SCHEELE, CLAES: Cacy, NC; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG WITT, WILLIAM: Winston-Salem, NC; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 11 BAGGETT, GARY: Deer Park, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG BAGGETT, MARK: Deer Park, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG BUSSARD, NOEL: Irving, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG COOMER, PHILLIP: Springtown, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG HULMES, LEANNE: S Lake Tahoe, CA; S. Jolicoeur/Adventure Addicts Region 12 AIKEN, RICHARD: New York, NY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG AINGE, STEPHEN: Southampton, NY; L. Linde/Easccoasc PG AINGE, TRUDY: Southampton, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG DONOHUE, VINCENT: Baldwin, NY; L. Linde/Easccoasc PG HURD, CLARENCE: Baldwinsville, NY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG JOYE, DANIEL: Carmel, NY; P. Renaudin/GMI PG MARINS, FRANK; West Harrison, NY; R. Liggett/Easccoast PG MATZ, MICHELE: Dobbs Ferry, NY; L. Linde/Easccoast PG MILICH, LUKE: New York, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoasc PG SIERMARCO, GEORGE: Ringwood, NJ; R. Liggecc/Eastcoast PG SILLERO, JOHN: Glens Falls, NY; J. Arwood/Earth & Sky Adventures TRANG, LAM: Pine Plains, NY; R. Liggett/Eastcoasc PG WEBBER, KURT: West Point, NY; P.SchallerFranco/New York PG Center WEI, BOWEN: Brooklyn, NY; L. Linde/Easccoast PG Region 13 GOSLING, TED: Bermuda; L. Young/Mescalito Advenrure IZADI, AMIR: Canada; L. Young/Mescalito Adventure SMITH, COLIN: England; M. Raviv/Torrey Pines Gliderport WARREN, CHARLES: Canada; P. Hajek/First Ascent PG

INTERMEDIATE RATINGS Region 1 CUMMINGS, R TAGGART: Issaquah, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School DAVIS, JEFF: Selah, WA; M. Eberle/Norrh American PG DAVIS, MARK: Issaquah, WA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz

PARAGLIDING

FRIZZELL, AARON: Clarkston, WA; F.S. Johnson/US. Airborne HOLZGROVE, BILL: Maple Valley, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HOUGHTON, STEPHEN: Yakima, WA; M. Smith/Dixon's Airplay PG LUM, JONATHAN: Mercer Island, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG MAGNUSON, JAMES: Bellevue, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School MILLER, MICHAEL: Bellevue, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School Region2 BOBINSKI, ZBIGNIEW: Bakersfield, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport ILAKOVAC, TIN: Mountain View, CA;J. Laos/Glidell NATA, SHIGETAKA: San Jose, CA; H. Rajmanek/Aircime of SF WEAST, DON: Morro Bay, CA; D. Bridges/Aspen PG 2YLKA, SANDRA: San Mateo, CA; H. Rejmanek/Westcoast PG

Region2 BOBINSKI, ZBIGNIEW: Baketsfield, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport BOOKOUT, KENNETH: Bakersfield, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport GALVIN, KIM: Alameda, CA; J. Gluzinski/Henny Penny's PG GALVIN, MIKE: Alameda, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School Region 3 MASTERSON, MICHAEL: Westminster, CA; T. Nelson/Thermal Dynamics PLISKA, CHRIS: Honolulu, HI; J.GoldbergHiller/Observer Region 4 MARION, SCOTTY: Draper, UT; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz SNITSELAAR, CARL: Durango, CO; R. Kocurek/Air Link PG

Region 3 CACCIAPAGLIA, ART: Santee, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport CLARK, JOHN PERLEY: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport HUBERTY, PAUL: Kailua, HI; S. Amy/Pro Flyght Hawaii PG KING, ALLEN: Goleta, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All MAHONEY, CASEY: Sama Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All REVENKO-PROKSCH, IRENE: Santa Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All STOCKWELL, DAVID: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport

Region 5 AUSTIN, ST CLAIR: Jackson, WY; T. Barlett/Peak PG

Region4 CREMER, DAVE: Vail, CO; G. KelleyNail Valley PG DIAZ, AL: Denver, CO; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HELMER, ROBERT: Denver, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PG HICKS, STAN: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SNITSELAAR, CARL: Durango, CO; R. Kocurek/Air Link PG VIRTUE, R.W.: Snowmass Vig, CO; D. Bridges/Aspen PG

Region 13 LEE, HYO KOO: Japan; R. McKenzie/High Adventure VEGA, CARLOS: Argentina 5178; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly

Region 7 ABATE, ANTHONY: Grosse Pee Prk, MI; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 12 SCHMIDT, GUNTER: Fairport, NY; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport

MASTER RATINGS Region 5 BLOXHAM, BRAD: Idaho Falls, ID; F. Gillette

Region 7 LEE, EUNICE: Urbana, IL; H. Rejmanek/Aircime of SF

TANDEM ONE RATINGS Region 8 BERTCH, SCOTT: Bricktown, VT; P. Renaudin/GMI PG PATT, TONY: Cambridge, MA; S. Berk Region 9 SANDSTROM, KARIN: Willoughby, OH; P. Barton/SHGA Region 12 ROD, DAN: New Brunswick, NJ; L. Linde/Easccoast PG SHEFTER, DANIEL: New York, NY; R. Liggecc/Eastcoasc PG SOBORSKI, MICHAEL: Hightstown, NJ; P. Renaudin/GMI PG WEI, BOWEN: Brooklyn, NY; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG WUSI ROOS, EBERHARD: Astoria, NY; P. Voight/Fly High HG

MARTY DEVIETTI DAVID LEE GLENN MILLER, M.D. BERNDT NORDING KEN KNAPP RICHARD KOCUREK BRAD BLOXHAM DANIEL OLSEN THOMAS RUSSO

TANDEM INSTRUCTOR RATINGS Region 13 CHANG, SUNG SAM: Korea; K. Ki Hong/Angel PG Club GHIBAN, FLORIAN: Canada; L. Linde/Eastcoast PG LEE, HYO KOO: Japan; R. McKenzie/High Adventure THAI, DOUGLAS: Hong Kong; R. McKenzie/High Adventure TRENCH, C.N.: Hong Kong; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport

ADVANCED RATINGS Region 1 BUTLER, ARCHIE: Bothell, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School HASS, RICHARD: Medina, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG KAPLAN, MARTIN HENRY: Seattle, WA; B. Hannah/PG Washington WHEELER, DAVID: Redmond, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1998

GREGOLASEK JIM LORENZ ROY OLSON JOHN SALTVEIT MARK SHIPMAN MICHAEL SMITH DAVID LEE BRUCE WILSON KRIS HUSTED CARLOS VEGA

1998 TOP 30 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN BEGINNER (PARA 1) RATINGS ISSUED

1998 TOP 30 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN NOVICE (PARA 2) RATINGS ISSUED

RANK SCHOOL ............................................. BEGINNER I Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ................................. 80 2 Cloud 9 Paragliding ............................................ 43 3 Eastcoast Paragliding ........................................... 36 4 Torrey Pines Gliderport/UP San Diego ............... 33 5 Southern Skies Paragliding .................................. 32 6 Hill Country Paragliding ..................................... 27 7 Morningside Flight Park ...................................... 20 8 Glidell ................................................................. 15 8 Over The Hill ..................................................... 15 9 Surf The Sky Paragliding ..................................... 12 Fly Away Paragliding ........................................... 11 10 10 Westcoast Paragliding/Airtime of SF ................... 11 11 Hang Glider Emporium ...................................... 10 11 Magic Valley Gliders ........................................... 10 12 Adventure Sports ................................................... 9 13 Chelan Paragliding ................................................ 8 13 Fly Above All ......................................................... 8 13 Two Can Fly ......................................................... 8 14 HG/PG School of Oregon .................................... 7 14 High Adventure .................................................... 7 14 The Soaring Center ............................................... 7 14 Upper Limits ......................................................... 7 14 US Airborne .......................................................... ? 15 Aspen Paragliding .................................................. 6 15 Atmosphere Paragliding ......................................... 6 15 Chirico's Fright School .......................................... 6 15 GMI Paragliding ................................................... 6 15 King Mountain Paragliding ................................... 6 15 Kitty Hawk Kites .................................................. 6 16 Above & Beyond Paragliding ................................. 5 16 Air Link Paragliding .............................................. 5 16 Big Sky Paragliding ............................................... 5 16 North American Paragliding .................................. 5 16 Personal Flight....................................................... 5 16 Thermal Tracker .................................................... 5

RANK SCHOOL .................................................. NOVICE Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ................................. 49 2 Cloud 9 Paragliding ............................................47 3 Eastcoast Paragliding ........................................... 38 4 Southern Skies Paragliding .................................. 29 4 Torrey Pines Gliderport/UP San Diego ............... 29 5 Westcoast Paragliding/Airtime of SF ................... 26 6 Airtek Paragliding ................................................ 14 6 Hill Country Paragliding ..................................... 14 7 Adventure Sports ................................................. 13 8 Chirico s Fright School... ..................................... 12 8 Morningside Flight Park ...................................... 12 9 Glidell ................................................................. 11 IO Fly Away Paragliding ........................................... 10 IO Parasoft Paragliding ............................................. 10 10 Surf the Sky Paragliding ...................................... 10 11 Hang Glider Emporium ........................................ 9 11 Over The Hill Paragliding ..................................... 9 12 New York Paragliding Center ................................ 8 12 Pro F.lyght Hawaii ................................................. 8 12 Two Can Fly ......................................................... 8 13 Fly Above All. ........................................................ 7 13 High Adventure .................................................... 7 13 Nord1 American Paragliding .................................. ? 14 Airjunkies Paragliding ........................................... 6 14 Atmosphere Paragliding ......................................... 6 14 GMI Paragliding ................................................... 6 14 HG/PG School of Oregon .................................... 6 14 Paraglide Washington ............................................ 6 14 Sky I-look Sports ................................................... 6 15 Air Link Paragliding ............................................. 5 15 Big Sky Paragliding ............................................... 5 15 King Mountain Paragliding ................................... 5 15 Magic Valley Gliders ............................................. 5 15 Mescalito Adventures ............................................ 5 15 Peak Paragliding ................................................... 5 15 Personal Flight ....................................................... 5 15 Sky Sports ............................................................. 5 15 The Soaring Center ............................................... 5

CORRECTION: The following schools were not ranked in the September/October 1998 issue as having given three Beginner ratings: Accelerated Flight Systems, Aspen Paragliding, Fly Above All, Paradise Paragliding, Parafly Paragliding and Thermal Dynamics. We sincerely apologize for the omission.

Rankings were compiled from ratings published in the January/February-November/December 1998 issues of Paragliding magazine.

PARAGLIDING

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Ascending Chimborazo,

Ecuador (20,600' MSL). Photo by Evan Greene.

Fatigue had clearly become a factor. It had taken seven hours to ascend along 5,000 vertical feet o/35° to 65° variable glacial snow. At the volcano summit the sky was deep blue with an unwavering westerly wind of35 mph. It was 7:00 Am. I sat down to assess the options my favorite part, the puzzle.

he winds were strong but the topography could not have been better. The summit was a giant rounded snow-cone. The volcano itself stood alone, and would be the solitary source of mechanical turbulence. Two thousand feet below me a thick layer of cumulus obscured the high alpine plains below. I radioed down to el guepo, Jack Field, who was writing a haiku about his altitude sickness. Below, winds were calm and the ceiling was 2,000 feet above the tent, which was on the lee side of the mountain. Green light. I down-climbed west, 200

vertical feet, and broke out the paraglider. Dropping to one knee with my left crampon planted out front, I built a tight wall. Breathing rhythmically I lifted the A-risers. As the glider came off the ground, I took several strides leeward before being lifted. Heading into the wind my ground speed was negative

The author, up close and personal.

eight mph. The summit was 100 yards behind me. The wind's vertical component soon held me well above the summit as I crabbed south to ensure that I would be well above and clear of the rotor behind the summit cone. As I approached the now vertically-developing cumulus, I blindly maintained a southerly heading, wanting nothing to do with the rotor. Minutes later, I left the misty cloudbase into smooth air. To facilitate landing on the rock below I removed my crampons and continued the long glide back to base

What drew you to paragliding? For many of us, it was fixating on prominent local peaks and wondering what it would be like to launch from the top. As students we were perfectly happy hiking all morning for a seven-minute flight. However, our peak-launching desires were eventually mitigated by the spoils of drive-up sites and bulkier, heavier gear. Hopefully, this article will help to inspire you to rekindle your original desire to seek a unique descent adventure. Peak launching is an entirely different undertaking than cross-country flying. It is a conquest I relate much to running big water or steep creeks in a kayak. At the top you must visualize the safest route to the bottom. Wind flows through the peaks much like water flows over a river bed. In both there are waves, slots, venturis, rorors/holes, eddies/shears, etc. Big peaks and big water allow minimal room for error. You must work ridge lift, point it through slots, and make extremely long glides over forests in order to reach a safe LZ. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

GEAR Weight and bulk are extremely important considerations. I believe in light and quick. Summit fatigue and hypoxia result in sloppy decisionmaking and launch technique. Superfluous bulk means unwanted swing weight and an unclean system you could get caught up in on launch. Choose an entrylevel paraglider with few lines and a good glide ratio such as an Ignition or an Atlas. Optimally, you will be on the top end of the placard. A smaller glider is lighter, will have higher cell pressure, fly faster, be easier to handle in high-

1998

The author flying at Mount Elbert (14,430' MSL).

Continued on page 48.

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Paragliding INTERVIEWS

This August in Lakeview, Oregon, Gary Brock had the opportunity to make a three-year goal become a reality, to become a US. National Paragliding Champion.

e first started flying a Cobra helicopter gunship in the Army in June of 1977. Four years later, after getting out of the Army, Gary started taking fixed-wing flying lessons. He now works as a Captain for Taco Bell Corporation, flying a Canadair Challenger all over the world, and has accumulated 11 ,000 hours of flight time as well as the following FAA certificates and type ratings: AIRLINE TRANSPORT PILOT AIRPLANE MULTIENGINE LAND BE-300, BE-400, BE-1900, CL-600, HS-125, LR-JET, MU-300 COMMERCIAL PRIVILEGES AIRPLANE SINGLE ENGINE LAND, ROTORCRAFT HELICOPTER, INSTRUMENT HELICOPTER FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR AIRPLANE SINGLE AND MULTIENGINE INSTRUMENT AIRPLANE, ROTORCRAFT-HELICOPTER FLIGHT TIME (HOURS) 11,000 TOTAL: 8,000 MULTI: 7,000 JET: 2,500 HELICOPTER: 450 PARAGLIDER: PARAGLIDING

PGM: How did you get involved in paragliding? Gary: The reason I got into paragliding stems from my need to capture those initial desires and feelings I had when I first starred flying. I wanted to be able to experience those feeling on a regular basis. Because of my flying job, I was beginning to forget that flying was supposed to be - fun , not just work. I remember the first time I saw a paraglider. It was like someone had set a fire under my rear. I had to fly one soon, and I immediately set about realizing this goal. PGM: From whom did you Learn? Gary: It was about four months after I starred flying paragliders that I met Joe Gluzinski while flying at Elsinore, California. I was usually one of the only guys flying a paraglider at Elsinore on a regular basis, with the exception of Joe. Joe was a large motivating factor in my progress as a paraglider pilot. He always had some tidbit of information to discuss, and was just a whole lot of fun to fly with. At that time I was flying a Super Space II. It was, at the time, what I thought was a good wing. I was more or less fearless regarding turbulent conditions, and because of this, found myself in the middle of a negative spin about 150 feet over Edward's one afternoon. Having survived that experience, I acquired a newfound appreciation for ram-air wings. There was one other incident in which I got into a bad situation with this wing, again a negative spin, bur this time I wasn't as low, and the wing recovered after a few 360degree turns. After these two experiences on the Super Space II, I began to realize that I was a little heavy for the wing. I believed I hadn't done anything wrong, other than encountering embedded thermals in ridge-soaring conditions, and being a little too deep on the brakes. I decided to get another wing, but this time it would be a little larger and I would opt for a

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

competition-class wing as well. I decided to get a Minoa 33. It was a great wing. I love the way that thing turns. PGM: Tell us about your first competition. Gary: Ir was at Telluride in 1996. I finished dead last in a field of 25 competitors, but I learned a few things. If it can go wrong, as far as equipment goes, it will. The battery compartment latch on my camera opened while I was over the first way-point during the first task, so I got no pictures. The other things I learned came from a mistake of mine and from witnessing another pilot make a seemingly minor judgment error, and subsequently ending up in a pile on launch. My error occurred on the day before the competition. I cried to push my glide just a little too far, and found myself landing in a field of boulders, some as large as I am. After successfully delivering myself from the jaws of death unscathed, except for a scratch on my right chin, I spent the next few days assessing the value of what I had done. During this selfsearching process I was unfortunate enough to witness the accident on launch. I won't try to evaluate what the pilot did wrong or right, but the most important thing that stuck in my mind was the fact that he wasn't even there to compete, he was just there to have fun. After this competition I adopted a different view of how

1998

I was going to fly, and what I would consider safe and not safe. PGM: What was next? Gary: My second competition was at King Mountain in 1997. I was prepared with a new wing, and determined to place somewhere between 10th and 15th. I had learned that Othar Lawrence was offering a five-day thermal/ cross-country clinic the week before the competition. Although I had already attended a couple of clinics before, I thought this would be an excellent opportunity to learn from one of the best. Something I think that is important to stress at this point is the value I place on training. In my job as a corporate pilot, every six months I must be recertified in the aircraft I fly. I do this at a company called FlightSafety. The refresher course usually lasts about four days, and covers systems and abnormal/emergency procedures. Half the time is spent in a classroom environment, and the other half is spent in a simulator. I've been doing this for about 15 years now, and although I've gone to FlightSafety more than 30 times, and have to admit that I often find it irritating to have to attend these refresher courses, I've never walked away from one without learning something. So, I believe there is a significant value in getting good training. The clinic with Othar was a good

rology comes not only from many hours of boring holes in the sky in a powered aircraft, but also from many hours of studying, both in structured military and civilian courses, and individual study. I don't believe you can be a good paraglider pilot without this knowledge.

preparation clinic for the 1997 Nationals. Othar covered quite a bit of information that I was already familiar with, but it never hurts to hear it come from an educated source; it helps reinforce the value of the information. As in any competition, you have a great opportunity to learn from the competitors, and learn more about your abilities and limitations. Subsequently, I really felt good about how I competed, and learned from the mistakes I had made. I placed 13th overall, and 10th among the U.S. competitors. I can't stress enough the opportunity one has when flying with some of the world's best paraglider pilots; it really hones your skills.

PGM: How did you prepare for the competitions? Gary: When I made the commitment to compete in paragliding competitions, I knew that I was going to have to apply myself in every way possible in order to

anain my goal of being a U.S. Paragliding National Champion. With this realization, I bought two books that I feel have helped me more than any other written source of information. In these two books, Dennis Pagen has accumulated a lifetime of information about meteorology and performance flying. I have easily read Understanding The Sky and Performance Flying at least a dozen times cover to cover. I have actually started my own study guide from the information in both books. I have broken down the information from both books so that it is more easily understood, at least by me. My understanding of meteo-

PGM: What was your competition schedule this year? Gary: During the last week of June and the first week of July, I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the Red Bull competition in Aspen. I've never been so thoroughly and wonderfully spanked in a paragliding competition. There were some really good pilots there, and I was lucky to have had that experience. I might also add that I had a new Airwave XXX, and a new Woody Valley X-Over harness. I wasn't too excited about showing up at Aspen with all chis new equipment, but I needed some new stuff My harness was about to fall apart at the seams, and I wanted a better-performing wing. On the first task at Aspen, I found myself in fifth place after the competition, but wasn't really happy about my performance. The largest part of the gaggle had chosen to head off toward Snowmass after the second turnpoint. I had flown over Snowmass on my way to the second turnpoint and had not found any lift, so I opted for a different course. During chis cask I was using the speed system quite a bit. I was one of the first

contestants at the second turnpoint, but was easily 500 to 800 feet below the main gaggle. After landing about two-thirds of the way back to the last turnpoint from the second turnpoint, I had the opportunity to reflect upon my tactics. While kicking at the dirt that secured my lackluster performance, the pilots who would place in the top four positions were scratching for lift over my head. I realized my mistake, and vowed to be more patient and focused. During the second task I practiced my new strategy, and did fairly well. After the second task I ended up 10th overall and first among the U.S. pilots competing. I was happy about my performance during the second task, and recognized the value of a cheap lesson learned. The third task would again prove to be a learning situation. After making the second turnpoint, I opted to go where I could see other pilots circling. It would turn out to be a big mistake. All the pilots who traveled over that route would essentially land within a few feet of each other, while the pilots who opted for alternate routes did great. My lesson learned: Don't be a lemming by following a gaggle to some group LZ, and use your brain and think about what you are going to do, and where you are going to go, well ahead of arriving over a turnpoint without a clue. After the third and final task I ended up placing 15th overall. I wasn't really happy with how I had done, but I had achieved a more focused and planned strategy because of my mistakes. I guess it was worth the spanking. PGM: Did you do anything special to pre-

pare for the Aspen comp? Gary: About a week before I had gone to Aspen I had taken some remedial ground-handling training from Rob McKenzie. During the course of an hour, Rob helped me sharpen my ground-handling skills, and made a remark that truly made a big impact on my performance at the U.S. Nationals. It's unfortunate that I didn't use his words of wisdom at Aspen (I'm a little slow), but I'm certainly glad I thought of them while scratching at Lakeview. What were Rob's golden words of wisdom? Simply, "The objective is not NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

concentrate on what I was doing

apparent I wasn't going to get very far, bur luck seemed to bless me on this day. The fourth and last task was a repeat of the first one - head east to the Plush cutoff, then on to the town of Plush. I believe the task was about 28.5 miles. I ended up making it to goal. I was the third pilot there, but Chris Santacroce was provoking a race the last few miles; he was hot on my tail. After making it to goal I knew I would be the next U.S. Paragliding Champion, but didn't know if I would be in first place. As it turned out I tied for first, and was indeed the new U.S. National Paragliding Champion.

by thinking ahead of myself'

PGM: What do you attribute your success

During the first task of the 1998 Nationals I was determined not to let my impatience get the best of me, not to follow anyone to a gro1,p grope somewhere out in the middle of nowhere, and really

to? to land." No kidding, but those were the six words I kept muttering to myself as I kicked the tree tops looking for thermals. PGM: Tell us about your experience at this year's Nationals in Lakeview. Gary: During the first task of the 1998 Nationals I was determined not to let my impatience get the best of me, not to follow anyone to a group grope somewhere out in the middle of nowhere, and really concentrate on what I was doing by thinking ahead of myself. This strategy worked, as evidenced by making it to goal, but unfortunately the lead gaggle beat me there, placing me at the end of the pack- 15th place after the task. For the second task, the task committee had conjured up a 65-mile task basically heading north along the Warner Mountains and Aben Rim. I ended up tied for second, making it only about 39 miles. Lee Kaiser had made it abour one kilometer farther than the four pilots who tied for second, so I was pretty happy with my performance, all-in-all. The second task was a long flight - a little over five hours. There were several times when I thought I was a goner, bur I just kept Rob's words of wisdom running over and over in my mind. I guess it worked. The third task turned our to be an invalid one, thank God, because I only made it half a mile. During this task it became most obvious that my being right at the top of the weight range of my glider had definite disadvantages. I certainly made some mistakes, backtracking toward launch looking for thermals when it was

1998

Gary: It surely didn't happen just during that week in Lakeview; it's been an ongoing, all-consuming goal for the last three years. I've spent many a sleepless night visualizing my success. There are also numerous people who helped me out: Joe Gluzinski, Othar Lawrence, Bill Belcourt, Rob McKenzie, Chris Santacroce, Rob Von Zabern, Len Szafryn and Jeff Williams, just to name a few. There are many, many pilots who have helped me throughout this whole process, some of whom I never had the opportunity to know, some I did. I take every opportunity to listen to what any pilot has to say (within reason), then filter out the crap and use what nuggets of knowledge are there. It works. PGM: What do you think ofRob Whittall's

Formula I proposal under which future competitions would be held on gliders similar to today's DHV-2 wings rather than on prototypes and comp wings? Gary: Paragliding safety, not only in competitions but in general, is certainly an issue that needs to be addressed. If what Rob is trying to do is make paragliding competitions safer, then I am all for it, but I'm not confident it will make the competitions any less biased. It's going to be hard to convince me that the factory hotshots are going to be flying stock wings. I believe that's a fact of life, bur it's not something I worry about. During competitions some of the factory pilots are flying working experiments, that hopefully will eventually help advance the sport of paragliding. I'm not convinced that developing these wings

a task waypoint was unsafe, someone would still fly. You can make certain that every wing out there is a certified, unmodified wing, and I'm sure that by doing this each pilot would be in a safer environment, but there will still be some idiot out there surfing rotors 100 feet off the deck, thinking he is God's gift to aviation. If the task committee takes a firm, proactive safety stand in the process of the competition, I believe that competitors not only recognize the significance of their actions but begin to expect their fellow competitors to exhibit the same concerns, and that's when people start thinking about what they are doing.

PGM: Given your extensive background with powered aircraft, do you think there are things that paraglider pilots can learn from the other branches ofaviation?

through competition is the proper way to develop them, given all the publicity about recent accidents and fatalities, but it certainly exposes the wing to a plethora of variables, which is the obvious goal. Each and every pilot has the option and opportunity to not fly, and he or she may have hundreds of reasons not to fly, but the reality is that we all have that option. If a trained, educated and experienced competition pilot decides to go out and fly a wing that is not stable (or, for that matter, not certified), then I believe they recognize the possibilities, and have subsequently accepted them.

PGM: How can we best improve our safety environment during competitions?

Gary: I believe the most effective way to enhance safety during a competition is to select proactive, safety-conscious task committee members. I was really impressed with the task committee during the 1997 U.S. Nationals, and again with the task committee at the Red Bull competition in Aspen. The task committee members in both competitions collectively set the tone for a safe competition. Let's face it, if the task committee calls a task, and the conditions are beyond what most of us would consider safe, or a task waypoint is in a location that requires pilots to fly in an unsafe environment, then someone will eventually get hurt. Unfortunately, even if most of us agreed that the conditions were unsafe, or

Gary: You would be amazed at how many paraglider pilots believe that my background in aviation has no significant value as applied to paragliding, and how many powered pilots believe that my experience in paragliding won't improve my performance as a powered pilot. In some respects I guess they are right, but the weather knowledge I have accumulated, through having had the opportunity to experience weather firsthand while flying across the U.S. at an altitude of 41,000 feet, cannot be measured. I have really been afforded a great opportunity to learn, to be able to study a weather map, study the weather observations for the route and destination, and then go out there and get to see the big picture what a way to learn. Paragliding is a sport that anyone can do with a limited amount of aviation and weather knowledge, but to know and understand why you are able to dangle beneath a bag of air, and to know and understand what is happening with the environment around you, can really be fulfilling - at least it is for me. I believe that any involvement in any aviationrelated pursuit will undoubtedly benefit the individual making the effort. I look at paragliding as a sport that takes a huge amount of discipline to be good at, and learning to some extent I believe takes discipline. IR

PARAGLIDING

REGION I Bill Bolosky- Incumbent I seek to represent the average pilot. Many of the BOD members represent commercial interests, competition pilots, equipment manufacturers, and so on. It's important that someone speak for all of these groups, but I think that it's also important that we have someone to represent all the weekend warriors out there. I'm that person. I believe that the primary mission for the USHGA and for local clubs is to provide inexpensive, minimally regulated access to as many high-quality flying sites as possible, on a longterm basis. In these days of increasing population pressure, liability considerations and environmental concerns, only a politically and legally aware and active USHGA has a chance oflong-term success. While recently, on a national level, USHGA has been making great strides in helping local clubs keep threatened sites from closing, I think that we need to be more proactive in securing guaranteed, long-term access to sites before they're in danger of being lost. This involves working with government agencies to be written into use plans, working with private companies and individual landowners to secure long-term leases for sites, and, when possible, arranging the purchase of sites by clubs, flying businesses or individual pilots. Only by acting now can we guarantee that we'll have good places (or any places) to fly in 20 years. In addition to lobbying and leasing and buying sites, we need to improve our image with the general public. There's no better way to get a politician to write free flying into the use plan for public land than to have the local people and business owners say that they want us around. As an example, the city and county politicians in Chelan have been our allies in negotiations with the state, specifically because they see us bringing business into their area. This in turn may well make the state guarantee us long-term access to Chelan Butte. I believe that modest growth of hang gliding and paragliding is beneficial to the average pilot. A reasonable number of additional pilots will increase our political clout, reduce the cost of equipment by increasing sales volume, help to get new sites, and generally put new blood into the local clubs. In the northwest, we've seen a wonderful growth in paragliding, but our hang gliding numbers have stayed pretty flat. I'm always looking for ways to make it easier to become a pilot without sacrificing safety. I do believe that beyond a reasonable limit growth would be bad for the sport, but we' re not close to that point now. I first flew a hang glider in 1987, and have

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

1998 USHGA REGIONAL DIRECTOR ELECTION Use the ballot attached to this issue ofthe magazine been addicted ever since. I've served the past two years as the Regional Director. Before that, I was the treasurer of Cloudbase Country Club in Seattle, and earlier was Cloudbase's Safety Director. In my time as Director I've done my administrative duties, represented Region ! 's interests at the BOD meeting, mediated disputes between groups of local pilots, and dealt with local and state politicians on various issues. I'm an Advanced-rated hang glider pilot, Basic Instructor and Observer. For the last two years I've been instructing with the Northwest Instructors' Co-op, a group of instructors formed more to get new pilots into the local community than to make money for the instructors.

REGION II Ray Leonard Incumbent For the past two years I have been working on site issues and procuring new sites across the country. Competitions have also been a focal point. We have continued with our Regional Comps for both hang gliding and paragliding. Now it is on to the Membership and Development Committee. I'd like to see or membership numbers grow to over 10,000. My desire is to see every member bring a new member and bring our numbers up. I'd like to continue as one of your Regional Directors with your support.

I 0/91-Present, Captain. Currently flying a DeHaviland Dash 8, with 3.0 years experience as an JOE check airman in Be-02 and 6.9 years with Mesa Airlines, Inc. 08/88-06/91: Discount Engine Exchange. All duties associated with general manager position, machinist, and engine rebuilder. 06/76-07/88: Francis Engine Service. Started part-time work after school as a parts washer then became field mechanic and machinist. 06/80-Present: I am an active hang gliding pilot. I first got my Beginner rating in 1984, my Intermediate rating in 1986, my Advanced in 1990. I have both the Bronze and Silver Lilienthal Awards. I also hold an Advanced Instructor rating. I was also issued a Tow Administrator rating in 1997. I also own and operate Mountain West Hang Gliding School. I have helped and worked with Mel Glantz of High Hang Gliding ofAlbuquerque, NM. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: I am a dependable, hard worker with a good sense of professional pride. I am 37 years old, married with two children and a non-smoker. INTERESTS: Family activities, hang gliding, race cars and flying of all kinds. REFERENCES: Available upon request.

REGIONV No Nominees

REGION III Ken Baier -

Incumbent

No Nominees

REGION IV Mark Ferguson -

Incumbent

Mark Francis - Nominee OBJECTIVE: A Regional Director position with the USHGA. FLIGHT RATINGS: Airline Transport Pilot, Commercial Single and Multi-Engine, Flt. Engineer written, First Class medical with no limitations. Additional BE!900, El 20, DHC8 types. FLIGHT TIME: Total, 7150; Multi-Engine, 6859; PIC Turbine (DHC8), 600; PIC Turbine (1900), 3223; PICTurbine (El20), 1405; Instrument, 617; Night, 1315; Hang Gliding, 575. EDUCATION: San Juan College, 19891991, Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Technology. EXPERIENCE: Mountain West Airlines,

1998

REGION VI

REGION VII Bill Bryden -

Incumbent

REGION VIII Douglas Sharpe - Nominee I originally got involved in hang gliding in 1974. In these early years I was active as a hang glider pilot from 1974 to 1978. Then, in 1989 I picked up the sport again, but this time as a paraglider and hang glider pilot. I have both a P4 and a Hang 4 rating. In 1993 I co-founded the New England Paragliding Club, one of two of the first paragliding clubs in the Region. I have remained actively involved in the NEPC. I was NEPC President in '94 and '95, Flight Director in '96 and '97, and Vice President in '98. During this

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period I have taken an active role in working on site development in the Region for both hang gliding and paragliding. I have been a paragliding Examiner and Observer in the Region for the last three years. AB an Examiner I have appointed qualified Observers as has been needed. I have actively encouraged and supported the hang gliding and paragliding flight schools in the Region and referred many students to all of them. The New England Region has always been near and dear to my heart. I believe it is a special, unique and beautiful place to fly. Over the years I have been affiliated in various capacities with the six or seven dubs that have been in the area for many years. I have always felt that the relationship between the various clubs here is very important, and I would like to see it maintained. New England is a relatively small place; pilots from all the clubs are constantly mixing with each other and visiting each other's sites. It is important that the clubs in our area continue to work and communicate well with each other to preserve the special flying environment that we have. I want to see continued progress in site development and site preservation. Great care needs to be taken to continue to develop and support existing flying sites in New England. In the last few years much progress has been made here to open up new sites at Cannon Mt., NH, Wells, VT and Sugarloaf Mt., ME. In addition, much ongoing work has been done to preserve and develop flying at West Rutland, VT, Mt. Ascutney, VT, Greylock Mt., MA and Petersburg Pass, MA, to mention just a few. AB Region 8 Director I will continue to support the unique qualities the New England Region has to offer. In our Region, I will support each of the flying groups' unique qualities and

their relationships with each other. I will support ongoing site development within all the clubs that will ensure the continued existence of sites and new site growth. My objectives as Director are: 1) To serve all the New England clubs at a national level and communicate national issues back to the New England Region. 2) To act as a catalyst for good club communications and interactions within New England. AB Director, I promise to support and represent groups in an unbiased and professional manner, and to try honestly to assist in the resolution of conflicts between them that may periodically arise. I intend to continue to hold a Regional meeting each year to foster communication between the Region's flying groups. I currently fly a Firebird Flame paraglider and an HP AT Wills Wing hang glider. I love to travel with my paraglider and fly in new regions I have not visited before, as well as to fly in New England upon my return. REGION IX Geoffrey Mumford Incumbent AB a candidate in 1996, I pledged to facilitate tow operations in the Region and to function as an advocate for safe flying practices, and I think I have done both. We now have an official USHGA aerotow Chapter centrally located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland serving pilots from four states and metro DC. If elected to a second term, I hope I can do more to promote safety as well as expand towing opportunities to accommodate the growing population of tow-rated pilots within this Region. For the last year I have enjoyed serving on the Executive Committee as your Treasurer and working between Board meetings with the rest of the Committee and the Executive Director on a

Continued on page 47.

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Cross-Country Flying IN THE San Francisco Bay Area by Ed Stein

During a recent conversation with Steve Roti, a discussion ensued regarding variations in cross-country flying within certain states, such as western versus eastern Oregon and northern versus southern California. Since I have been fairly successful flying cross-country in northern California (specifically the San Francisco Bay Area) Steve asked if I would share with the readers ofthis magazine my experience in this area.

eedless to say, California is a large state with diverse topography. Southern California is noteworthy for areas such as the Owens Valley and high desert terrain . There is no need to expound on the Owens Valley since much has already been written about it and most pilots are aware of its reputation as one of the best (and strongest) free-flying environments in the world. There have been some truly incredible flights in this region which has its own complex meteorology. Cross-country flying in the San

PARAGLIDING

Francisco Bay Area is quite a bit different than in southern California and I am going to restrict the remainder of this article to the Bay Area. When one thinks of flying here, thoughts of a city close to the Bay with foggy days and coastal soaring come to mind - not an area known for its crosscountry potential. I consider this area, however, a technically unique and also demanding free-flying environment for cross-country flying, which in turn makes X-C flying here most rewarding for me. For paragliding, cross-country flying in the San Francisco Bay Area began with the opening (for paragliding) of the Mt. Diablo and Mission Peak flying sites in 1992 and 1994 respectively. Mt. Diablo, with a vertical of 3,849 feet is approximately 35 miles east/southeast of the city of San Francisco. Mission Peak, with a vertical of 2,300 feet, is approximately 20 miles southeast of San Francisco and south of Mt. Diablo. Highly populated areas sit directly west of these two mountains and heavily forested areas lie directly east of Mission Peak in the Mt. Hamilton area. The Mt. Hamilton mountain range is high enough and far enough away from the ocean to often create its own flying environment similar to typical inland mountain ranges. This area, which is located close to a major city (San Jose) consists of thick forests and open meadows, and is very sparsely inhabited with no public roads and a few dirt roads closed by locked gates. Hang glider pilots for years have referred to this area as "dinosaur land. " However, I think this can be a very fruitful area for cross-country flying. These two flying sites opened for hang glider pilots in 1984 and a few of them began flying cross-country shortly thereafter. The hang glider pilots pioneered certain routes which would coincide with retrieval logistics. When I started flying cross-country I initially began with the established routes, but soon found that these routes (although offering good retrieval logistics) would seriously compromise a paraglider pilot's ability to fully exploit the X-C potential of the area. The quest to discover cross-country routes more suitable for paragliding lead to an in-depth (and, I am told, somewhat compulsive) study of cross-country flying logistics for this area. The geography of the Bay Area is such that the terrain offers European-type flying.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

~\f Mt. Diablo SAN FRANC SCO

Mission Peak,\~ '\' The flying here is over green terrain and the mountains are much more disorganized, unlike the White Mountains of the Owens Valley or Sierra Nevada mountains of central and southern California which run north and south for many miles. Here there are many convoluted ranges and narrow valleys, so one is constantly jumping over valleys, flying crosswind, upwind, etc. Because altitude gains tend to be limited (2,000' to 4,000' is the norm on a good day) one must constantly fight to hang on to every inch of altitude and continuously judge glide during a flight. Flying conditions are typically weak, and the cross-country flying season is short basically in the spring and a few days in the summer and fall. It is for these reasons that so many people think cross-country flying in the Bay Area is so difficult. However, as Chris Arai says, "It builds character." For an average cross-country flight, just going out on an average day, even in the springtime, is not likely to yield good results. Therefore it is essential to have indepth knowledge of the weather for that

1998

,\~ M t. H amiiton '\'

day and then make appropriate decisions regarding when and where to fly and what time to launch. There are many good days for cross-country flying, but often these days are only good for hang glider pilots because of strong winds. The Bay Area is unique in that there is usually a constant inversion, as well as a strong marine influence, that effectively inhibits cross-country flying most of the year. The low-level inversion is a result of the cold ocean meeting the warm land mass. Since Bay Area temperatures are so much cooler than in Southern California, daytime heating is not sufficient for thermals to break through the inversion. But

Mount Diab lo

this does not mean that flying cross-country is not a possibility. On the contrary, for the tenacious pilot, a cross-country flight is still possible if one utilizes thermal bubbles in a "yo-yo" type of flying - that is, going from bubble to bubble at low altitude in almost continuous landing mode. Nevertheless, by fighting for every inch of altitude and judging glide angle with the precision of a mathematician (for me, the Tangent Flight Computer is indispensable), cross-country flying is still possible and especially rewarding when most objective indications suggest that it would not be feasible to go X-C. Many times, judging glide correctly by just a few feet makes the difference between landing and continuing for several miles. I believe that the first and most important step in cross-country flying in the Bay Area is to cut the umbilical cord of retrieval considerations. Once a pilot forgets about the ride home, he or she can concentrate on the task at hand, that is, what the best decision is at the moment based on conditions at the time. Many times the best decision will take a pilot into that previously mentioned "dinosaur land." However, this dinosaur land is typically outside of the dreaded and constant Bay Area inversion and marine influence, and this allows one to evaluate and make appropriate decisions while fully focused on the meteorology and terrain, not on post-flight comforts. I also feel that to be successful at crosscountry flying in the Bay Area, one must embrace the philosophy that landing is

Hamilton

simply not a consideration. If one does have to land (due to safety or other factors) it is imperative to be prepared for a long walk out to a road or ranch house, or possibly to spend the night under the stars. This mindset requires a thorough knowledge of the Bay Area's meteorology. Decision-making involves not only the meteorology of the general area of the launch site, but also anticipation of changing conditions from just a few hundred meters to several miles from launch. Conditions can and will change dramatically just a few miles from launch. I find Mt. Diablo especially challenging and demanding since its location makes it subject to a unique meteorological influence from both the ocean and the central valley of California, and it develops its own weather as well. The result is often a convergence wne that can produce exceptional flying, if the timing is correct. Not only is launch timing important, it can be critical at both Mt. Diablo and Mission Peak. Especially for paragliding, many times there is a very narrow window of opportunity which can make the difference between a great distance flight and just launching into or flying briefly in laminar marme a1r. Typically, the marine influence begins shutting down the flying from the north,

so one can be flying south in good conditions (i.e., cloud flying) and just a couple of miles to the north there will be a large blue hole that had great clouds just minutes earlier. It can be very frustrating for pilots just a mile or so to the north who are on the ground, knowing that if they had just launched at a different time, or taken a slightly different route, that they would be at doudbase continuing on to a good flight. In conclusion, successful cross-country flying in the Bay Area has been achieved as a result of an extraordinary amount of trial and error, and reflecting upon mistakes made in the air while hiking out of the woods for many hours. The Bay Area is a unique free-flying environment, but it can provide great rewards and a sense of accomplishment for the pilot who is persistent in his or her desire for good crosscountry flying.

Ed Stein began flying in 1988 and has been a paragliding instructor since 1990. He was a member ofthe Paragliding World Team in 1991 for the World Meet held that year in St. Andre, France, and holds the paragliding distance record for Northern California, which includes paragliding site records for Mt. Diablo (70 miles) and Mission Peak (76.5 miles).• PARAGLIDING

rf::?'.f :i?{~?t+\(::: :'"'--·'

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·. :fi;~t{ftU,~tiki~/i~J~:,il:~m~i HAT ISA RECREATIONAL GLIDER? This is the first in a series of recreational paraglider reviews. A recreational paraglider is a wing that: 1) is suitable for a pilot who flies for fun rather than for competition or in the pursuit of world records, 2) can accommodate a pilot who flies intermittently, and 3) meets the needs of the recreational pilot who wants a balanced package of performance, handling and "security in flight." A recreational pilot wants a wing that is consistent with the attitude of flying today in a way that ensures the opportunity to fly again tomorrow.

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT ADVANCED GLIDERS A common misconception among pilots is that you need an advanced-level glider to have the best flight experience - getting high, going far, and reaching cloudbase! However, a pilot with good decision-making skills, flying a beginner/intermediate glider such as the Firebird Ignition, can consistently outperform an inept pilot on a "competition" wing. The reason for this is that the "comp" wing pilot can't fully utilize the performance advantages of the wing, because he is distracted from concentrating on strategy by having ro focus all of his attention on just managing the wing. You need to be confident with your wing to fly at your full potential and to capitalize on all the performance a wing has to offer.

MODERN GLIDERS OFFER ADVANTAGES The technology is evolving quickly in the paragliding industry, and gliders soon become outdated when it comes to one or more of the three primary evaluation criteria used in glider selection. These three criteria are performance, handling and safety. For this reason, make your investment in a modern glider. A newer glider will not only allow your pilot skills to advance more quickly, but you'll be flying with the safest designs available on the market. In keeping with this philosophy, only gliders that have become available in the U.S. during the previous 12 months will be reviewed in this series.

FIELD-PROVEN GLIDERS Be cautious about being the first pilot to buy a glider that has just been introduced. Even though gliders are certified, newly released

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

THE FIREBIRD IGNITION by Alan Chuculate gliders are initially unproven in the field. In paragliding, as in hang gliding, sometimes when a new glider is made available to the public, unforeseen safety problems are revealed. Usually this is because recreational pilots don't handle wings in the same manner as factory test pilots. On occasion, in severe cases, safety concerns in the marketplace have been a driving force in a glider model being discontinued.

1998

GLIDER HANDLING A PERSONAL CHOICE Always test-fly a glider before you buy one. No matter how popular a glider may be, it may not have the handling you prefer. It's like buying shoes; choose what feels best to you.

PERFORMANCE AT THE EXPENSE OF SAFETY Handling is only one of the three evaluation criteria a pilot considers when making a selec-

tion. Everyone desires high performance. The problem is that the highest level of performance only comes at the expense of safety. Even competition pilots are becoming outspoken about the trend of excessive injuries and fatalities resulting from the pursuit of that extra increment of performance advantage. New and young pilots are often easily swayed by peer pressure or sales pressure, and get in over their heads by purchasing a glider which is far beyond their skill level. Succumbing to such performance hype can lead to scaring you out of the sport or getting you injured.

GLIDER CERTIFICATION The U.S. does not have a paragliding certification organization. Therefore, our paragliding community looks to Europe for certification standards, where paragliding originated. The DHV andAFNORare the two most commonly accepted programs. The DHV is the organization responsible for certification and testing of hang gliders and paragliders in Germany and Austria. The DHV performs 16 flight tests. The emphasis of these tests is to determine how easily glider problems occur in flight. The tests are performed at both the minimum and maximum of the weight range specified by the manufacturer. The paraglider is then graded on a five-point scale for each test. The overall rating ofthe wing corresponds to its worst single test result. The guidelines for the five grades are: Grade 1 • Those with simple and very forgiving flying characteristics Grade 1-2 • Good-natured flying characteristics • Possesses a high level of active & passive safety • Recommended to anyone who doesn't fly regularly or whose motivation to fly is pure fun rather than ambition Grade 2 • Those with demanding flying characteristics and potentially dynamic reactions to turbulence and pilot error • Recommended for pilots who fly regularly Grade 2-3 • Those with very demanding flying characteristics and potentially violent reactions to turbulence and pilot error • Recommended for experienced pilots who fly regularly

Medium Large X-Large Area (m2) Flat ..... 26.9.;.; ........29.1... ......... 31.2 Projected. 23.7., ..........25.6 ............,p.4 Weight Range Kg...... 60-80 .........75-95 .. ;)'"" 90-120 Lbs.... 132-176 ..... 165~209 ...... 198~264

THE FIREBIRD PRODUCT LINE Firebird currently has five paragliders in their product line: the Ignition (1-2), the Flame (2), the Cult (Competition), the Rocket (2-3), and their tandem glider, the Monster. The Ignition is their recreational glider and the subject of this review. THE WING SIZES: The Ignition comes in three sizes as

listed in the table below. Most manufacturers would label these as Small, Medium and Large respectively. Firebird classifies them as Medium, Large and Extra Large, s~ make sure that you're sized accordingly. I flew the Large Ignition, and at my weight I was on the high end of the weight range.

• Those with very demanding flying characteristics and potentially very violent reactions to turbulence and pilot error • For expert pilots Harnesses are also subjected to certification testing and graded based on the type of design. The two most common harness design types are: 1) GX - "X" braced harnesses (with cross straps); 2) GH - "H" braced harnesses (without cross straps). Most modern DHV-certified harnesses are of the GH design type. The complete DHV glider certification rating is specified with a harness designation, usually of GH, GX or G. This last grading, "G," indicates that only explicitly listed types of harnesses meet the certification category of the glider. AFNOR is the French/Swiss certification program that rates gliders based on the following four grades: Standard, Performance, Competition and Tandem. The first three categories roughly correspond to DHV 1, 2 and 3 respectively. AFNOR testing focuses on how easily a paraglider recovers from collapsManufacturers certify their different paraglider models by either the DHV or AFNOR, and less often by both standards. This series of paraglider reviews will focus on recreational gliders, and therefore will be limited to DHV 1-2 and 2, andAFNOR Standard and Performance-rated gliders.

CANOPY: Firebird designer Stefan Muller has engineered the Ignition with the customer in mind. He could have economized by using the same finish of the Porcher Marine Skytex nylon cloth throughout the canopy. Instead, he chose to utilize a different fabric finish to meet the distinct needs of each part of the canopy. To minimize stretch in the ribs, "hard finish" cloth is used so the canopy retains its form for aerodynamic efficiency. For increased tear resistance on the top surface, "soft finish" cloth is preferred so the canopy is more durable and will stand up better in "real world" use. In addition, the color choices of blue, yellow, red and magenta were chosen because they provide the best UV resistance for this cloth. These canopy colors will fade less, fade more slowly, or perhaps both, extending the !ife of your glider despite inevitable degradation from exposure to sunlight. The ribs' leading edges have been stiffened through the use of cross-reinforced mylar material. This reinforcement contributes to ease of glider inflation. According to Firebird, this desirable characteristic will last for the life of the wing. Time will tell.

LINE'S: When paragliding first gained popularity, lines were made of kevlar, a polyaramid fiber developed by Dupont. The brittleness of kevlar caused it to fatigue all too quickly from the repeated bending that occurs during folding. Market demand has driven the development of more flexible and durable forms of polyaramid. The longevity of the Ignition's lines supersedes that of kevlar because of fiber variations produced by Eulit of Germany. It's comforting to realize that your glider has been load-tested to in excess

PARAGLIDING

of 1,000 kg. (2,200 lbs., about 10 G's) and that the lines will retain their strength for an extended period. The lines may even last for the life of your canopy if you take care of them. However, it's still recommended that you have your glider tested regularly and have the lower lines replaced at manufacturer-specified intervals. There's no mention of a specific time frame in the Ignition owner's manual for inspection, but a conservative period would be once a year or every 50 hours, whichever comes first. QmcK LINK LINE RETAINERS: The retainers keep the lines in place on the quick links so the lines don't wear on the nut or any exposed threads of the link. These "keepers" also prevent the lines from moving around and causing the connectors to become twisted. Such sideways loading on a quick link makes it substantially weaker, just like a twisted carabiner loaded across its gate. The older-style rubber buckle retainers, that were commonly used a few years back, were effective in keeping the lines positioned on the top of the quick links. Unfortunately, they were very difficult to remove in order to inspect the lines, and this is a critical juncture that most pilots overlook. They also contributed to line wear by trapping abrasive particles such as sand and gravel against the lines. Firebird uses simple 0-rings in a figure-8 twist to maintain line position on the quick links. This method is very neat, and provides for easy inspection of the line loops. RISERS: The Ignition uses four primary ris-

ers. The risers and their respective lines are color coded so you can easily differentiate between them (see photo). This detail is a tool that enhances learning and serves as a safety feature. I continue to be surprised that some manufacturers still disregard this userfriendly feature. Split A-risers for doing big ears are gradually becoming an industry standard, and the Ignition has the best configuration of any glider I've flown to date. The A-riser webbing has velcro fastening tape on both the inner and outer A-risers. Prior to inflation, the pilot can press the webbing together and the velcro secures them in place. When the risers are released after inflation, the two webs separate, allowing adequate space so that a gloved hand can easily grasp the risers (see photo). The line distribution (two inner and one outer) along with the length and

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

attachment position of the outer A-riser allows for doing big ears both quickly and effortlessly.

rienced paraglider pilots such as hang glider pilots and skydivers who are learning to paraglide. At no time did the glider feel like it was going to get away from me.

GROUND HANDLING INFLATIONS: I made nearly 30 flights on the

SPEED SYSTEM: The speed system is simple,

Ignition, initially in smooth, coastal ridgesoaring conditions and later in strong, midday, summer thermals. The glider was consistently easy to inflate, whether doing a forward or a reverse inflation. The pilot needs to bring the canopy all the way overhead for inflation, and this can even be accomplished without using your hands on the risers, for a forward or a reverse. Since gliders will tend to overshoot when inflating in strong winds when using both the inner and outer A-risers, Firebird recommends using only the inner A-risers in strong winds to produce a slower rate of inflation. This is very effective with the Ignition in allowing the pilot to maintain control of the canopy.

solid and effective, achieving a top speed of 43 km/hr. (26 mi./hr.) with no leading edge flutter as a precursor of frontal collapse.

KITING: The Ignition is very easy to kite in

both light and strong wind. It quickly responds to lateral body movement and brake in put to maintain the center of the wing directly overhead. This facilitates quick and safe launches. Firebird has wisely marked the leading edge of the undersurface center cell to assist the pilot in distinguishing the center point of the canopy. This is another user-friendly feature that all manufacturers should provide. The definitive proof of the Ignition's ease of ground handling was the success my girlfriend had on her first attempt at inflation and kiting. This is only the second glider she's inflated. Not only did she get it overhead without difficulty, but she also exceeded her Beginner (Pl) skill rating by kiting it in excess of two minutes.

HARNESS/GLIDER COMBINATION: The

Ignition is certified for use with a CH-type harness (a harness without cross-straps). I flew it with this type of harness and found the weight-shift response to be excellent. More importantly, I felt no compromise in handling or control due to body bouncing in strong thermal turbulence. My experience with the Ignition supports Firebird's recommendation of flying the glider without crossstraps.

PERFORMANCE The primary measures of glider performance are: 1) maximum glide ratio, 2) minimum sink rate, 3) top speed. Paragliding and hang gliding manufacturers do not generally publish maximum glide ratio values. Minimum sink rates are very comparable among different brands. Top speed shows more variation than the other performance factors because of the freedom a designer has in line configurations. At 43 km/hr. (26 mi./hr.) the Ignition is not the fastest glider on the market, or even in its class, however, with good cross-country decision-making, you could still be the first pilot to goal. Consistent with the industry, the Ignition is trimmed to fly at its speed for maximum glide ratio in still air, which is 34 km/hr. (21 mi./hr.). SAFETY

IN-FLIGHT HANDLING

COLLAPSE AND RECOVERY

FLIGHT FAMILIARIZATION: When I evaluate a

CHARACTERISTICS: My safety evaluations with an unfamiliar glider include 50% asymmetries on each side, a full frontal, and a B-line, again in smooth coastal air. After inducing each of these collapses, I simply release and observe the behavior of the glider with no pilot input. The Ignition's recovery behavior was very benign for all of the above maneuvers, and exhibited minimal rotation (<90°), minimal altitude loss (<50 ft./15 m), and no complications such as delay in recovery or secondary collapses. The surge during recovery from the B-line stall was prompt, definitive,

glider I haven't previously flown, the first thing I do is get a feel for the wing by doing pitch oscillations, roll reversals, spirals, dives, and applying full accelerator in smooth coastal air. I was both surprised and impressed with the light yet solid handling the Ignition exhibited. I expected it to be heavy and sluggish, like many beginner gliders, but the Ignition responded more like an intermediate-level glider, with the brake pressure being both light and responsive. It was very forgiving of heavy-handed control input, an ailment often exhibited by inexpe-

1998

would be exactly in the middle of the weight range. This is exactly the type of problem that certification testing can identify. I commend Firebird for their customer concern and for appropriately addressing this finding.

OTHER FLIGHT MODES TOWING: The Ignition

is suitable for towing according to both Firebird and the DHV MOTORING: I flew the

and minimal (maybe 15° to 20°), with no tendency to enter parachutage (const:ant stall). In actual midday summertime thermals, when the lift was in excess of 1,000 ft./min. (5 mis), the Ignition was very reassuring to fly. ''Active piloting" in conjunction with the stabiliry of the Ignition allowed me to fly in these strong conditions without collapses. For your safery, avoid thermaling until you fully understand the techniques of "active piloting."

SPECIAL CERTIFICATION NOTE I did not have the opportuniry to fly the smallest size Ignition (the Medium), but there is an "Extra Note On Safery" from the DHV test for this glider at the maximum tested weight of85 kg (187 lb.): "Asymmetric collapse and opposite steering: the average steering travel at opposite steering needs attention." This means that if you're heavily loaded on the little glider it will be easy to stall and spin when braking for heading control following an asymmetric collapse. Firebird cautiously addresses this potential problem by reducing the recommended maximum weight of the Medium size by 5 kg (11 lbs.) to 80 kg (176 lbs.). For a pilot who hooks in at 85 kg (187 lbs.), the Large size Ignition would be the more appropriate glider anyway, since this weight

middle size (the Large) Ignition as a paraglider and also flew the big size (the Extra Large) as a powered paraglider. The Ignition is not specifically certified for motoring by the DUVL, the German powered ultralight certification agency. I only know of two paragliders that are certified for motoring. Most paragliders are probably not certified for the addition of a powerpack because of the lack of market demand. Nonetheless, I found it quite suitable for motoring. It didn't exhibit any tendency to laterally oscillate, "accordion'' across the span, or exhibit line "resonating" as some paragliders do. Big ears is easy to do with the Ignition's split A-risers while motoring. This is not always possible with my motor that has a relatively high riser attachment point above the shoulders. The Ignition quick links use a twisted 0-ring as a line retainer rather than a plastic insert. This open configuration allows a pilot to insert an index finger inside the quick link on the A-risers to help complete glider inflation when launching with the added weight of a backpack motor. A little added tension applied by the inserted fingertips as the glider is nearing the top of the inflation arc can salvage a launch if the glider hangs back from cresting overhead, which is not uncommon during light-wind launches. The Ignition risers do not have rear riser trimmers, which would be an asset for motoring. These can be used differentially to

compensate for the unintended turning under power due to the propeller effects of torque and asymmetrical blade thrust. They can also be used in unison for increasing ground speed. Few paraglider manufacturers produce gliders with trimmers these days. This is probably because trimmers make it more difficult to pass certification tests, and the testing costs more because twice as many flight tests are required to evaluate the effects at each extreme setting. One minor deficiency I noted was that the webbing loop for the riser/carabiner connection is relatively small. My motor requires an additional safery quick link to be inserted into this loop. This is easier when the loop is bigger as on some other paraglider brands. I also prefer to insert one riser loop into the other for occasions when I briefly leave my glider detached and unattended in breezy conditions. Such interlacing of the riser ends minimizes any entanglement that can occur if the glider gets blown around.

SUMMARY Ni a pilot and as an instructor, I found the Firebird Ignition to be an excellent glider for recreational flying and would recommend it for all pilot skill levels. It's stable enough for student training, yet has a sufficient level of handling and performance that an advanced pilot would enjoy flying it too. Whether you're looking for your first wing or are replacing an older wing, the Ignition will serve you well. With the Ignition, Firebird has achieved a balance and integration of performance, handling and securiry that I have not experienced previously in a paraglider. Firebird further distinguishes itself by complimenting this successful design with user-friendly features that set it apart from other paragliders. It's the kind of glider that I would want my mother or my mate to fly - fun, easy and safe!

For information on glider certification visit: www.dhv.de andwww.afnor.fr- Ed A.Bour THE Aun/OR: Alan Chuculate began

teaching hang gliding in 1975, and has been teaching paragliding since 1990. He is authorized by the USHGA to train and certify instructors in both disciplines. He is also a certified instructor far powered paragliding, and is currently co-authoring a book on powered paragliding. He resides in San Diego, California and can be reached at his email address, g_achucu@qualcomm.com, or by telephone at (619) 292-1552. Ill PARAGLIDING

Continued from page 38. variety of policy issues affecting USHGA. If re-elected I will continue to represent you as best I can to enhance safe flying practices and the fiscal health of our Association.

REGIONX G.W. Meadows -

Incumbent Historically, I've never been one to promote myself for votes on this "Regional Director" thing. Ir's not a job that any sane person should want - it's more of a service that many Directors get caught up in as a matter of habit. The main reason for putting this message in the magazine is to let you know that if you do indeed put me in this simation again, I'll hum you all down like dogs. Nah, really, what I wanted to tell you Region lOers is that this will be my last time in this position and you guys and gals need to huddle together and come up with a couple of options for the next vote on this position (which will take place two years from now). I feel that doing anything too long can make you less effective and I've been involved with the Board since the fall of 1986, and quite simply we need some new blood on the Board. Ir's a thankless job that ABSOLUTELY HAS to be done, so we need some energetic candidates to be getting prepared for it. Thanks for your support and remember - the USHGA IS you. Ger involved in a positive way.

REGION XI No Nominees

REGION XII Paul Voight - Incumbent Hello Region 12! My name is Paul Voight, and I'm an aircoholic. I am your current Regional Director, and have been so since 1989. I would like to rake this opportunity to convince you to vote me in for another term. This should be a relatively easy task, since no one is running against me. The reasons I'm your man are as follows: I fly hang gliders and paragliders, and instruct both disciplines. I've been flying forever. I'm a nice guy. I go to all the Board meetings, mainly to make certain that they (we) don't do anything REAL bad. I favor minimal regulation, rules, and bureaucracy. I do, however, enjoy controversy. I have an e-mail address that I sometimes

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even check (I prefer magic over technology) . I bring leviry to the Boaid meetings. I vote like a pilot who wants these sporrs to stick around a while. Additionally, I vote from the perspective of someone who is in the business (so I can continue to make millions at this game) which, oddly enough, means voting like I want these sports to stick around a while. I am currently the Chairperson of the Tandem Committee, which I believe is just about content with the current tandem programs and (hopefully) will leave them alone for a few seasons. I also have shouldered the responsibility of chairing the Financial Redistribution Committee for several seasons running. This Committee has made vast improvements in several areas, particularly in recruiting new Board members to sit in on committee. I also attend the Towing and Safety and Training Committee meetings, to keep myself informed, and from time to time, interject a voice of reason. These are interesting times for the USHGA, and I enjoy being a part of it. In conclusion, as usual, I will offer what may be the most compelling reason to vote for me: If you do so, and make me aware of this while in a local tavern after a great flying day, I'll buy you the beverage of your choice! •

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

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Continued ftom page 29. er winds, and can be launched from tighter areas. However, at higher altitudes the decreased surface area will require a longer run on launch. For a harness, I use a tiny old Air Bulle student harness, and I replaced the seat with balsa wood wrapped in one layer of fiberglass. If you are launching from steep snow and landing on uneven ground below, you'll need step-in crampons. You must remove them while in flight as landing on rocks with crampons can make kindling of your ankles. A cordura launch tarp placed under your lines is necessary for launching from larger than baseballsize talus slopes. Carry a compass and take bearings from camp and the summit.

My favorites are higher-altitude, isolated, cone-shaped, snowcapped volcanoes. There are unlimited classics in the Americas. They offer launching capability in any direction, without adjacent ranges or ridges which can cause adverse turbulence in high winds. I am planning to fly all 54 fourteeners here in Colorado. Most are easy climbs under 5,000 vertical feet, with extremely challenging launches and

You must be in top physical condition. The Jacque LeFleur training method of "not drinking for a week'' is, although valiant, ineffective. Climbs will be between two hours and two days, and the flight gear weight can exhaust you. You must be sharp and have plenty of reserves at the summit, as there is often zero room for error on launch.

Launching into 2, 000-Joot-deep Black Canyon outside Montrose, Colorado. flight patterns. However, any local unflown peak makes for a great potential adventure.

You will increase your chances of success ten fold if you plan your excursion during the targeted region's stable, dry season. If you are attempting to fly a volcano in a third-world country, the only forecasting will be done with your eyes and a barometer. Here in Colorado, you can sit tight until a high-pressure system moves in. If 800.WXBRIEF confirms light winds aloft, head for the hills.

AT BASE CAMP Because it is virtually impossible to find an experienced pilot who enjoys leaving a warm, frost-covered tent at midnight, I am generally on my own, with hourly radio contact with the tent below. Reliable, powerful radios are imperative. You will be relaying vital information to base camp from the summit. Inform your partner of potential LZ's in opposing valleys. Optimally, you want to land next to your tent, but winds may dictate that you land several miles away.

THE CLIMB There are two strategies I use. One is to summit late afternoon and attempt an evening flight. If this fails, I bivouac and try again in the morning. The other is to PARAGLIDING

summit just before sunrise, as this is the most consistent time of day for flying. You must reach the summit pinnacle in order to ascertain the true wind speed and direction. Visualize how the wind vectors are reacting relative to the topography and meticulously plan your flight pattern, avoiding rotors at all cost. At this point, you can accurately predict and inform base camp where you will land and whether or not you will need a shuttle. From here, the quest begins to find a suitable launch. Although you need to be aggressive to be successful, use good judgment and fly within your comfort zone. Solid tactics and patience will result in a safe, successful flight for even the most aggressive pilot. If you experience symptoms of sensory overload such as sewingmachine legs, or fibrillating hands, you should pack up. You may wish to wait for lighter winds or a better wind direction. Medical facilities may be at least 10 hours away. I have climbed the Grand Teton four times with my glider, and have yet to be rewarded with optimal conditions. This has truly tested my patience since each attempt required a 13-hour drive from Crested Butte. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

THE FLIGHT Be attentive to the micrometeorology around you. Be prepared to make small changes in your flight pattern. Scout alternative LZ's in case you can't make a glide. Enjoy! You will be rewarded with high alpine vistas otherwise experienced only by birds of prey. Exhaust all avenues in confirming wind direction on the ground, as a downwind landing on variable terrain is rolling dice. Use radio contact, observe advection or upslope fog, campfire smoke, ponds, trees or high grass, or circle above your LZ.

DIVERSIFY As you progress, you may want to attempt multiple peaks per morning. One of my favorite excursions involved flying two consecutive Colorado fourteeners one morning. It began with a 2,900-foot, presunrise climb to the top of Uncompaghre (14,300'). The summit offers an easy inflation followed by a 2,000-foot superman cliff launch. After a two-mile glide across two valleys I made a steep, 2, 100foot climb up Wetterhorn (14,100'). This summit has just enough room to lay out the glider and drops sharply on all sides. This launch also requires total commit-

1998

ment. The ensuing flight was above a spectacular knife-edge ridge, over the Matterhorn summit (13,600'), and culminated in a long glide back toward camp. Another option is flying into steep, deep, narrow ravines or canyons. For these, of course, you must pre-scout the LZ and have quick-release carabiners as you will be landing at a river's edge. WHY? My interest is primarily in pursuing endeavors that have rarely or never been attempted. By no means do they have to be insane stunts - rather, creative adventures. This stimulates invention and involves the personal challenge of working with one's fears. As long as such physically- and mentally-demanding tasks are conceived and pursued, life remains interesting. Flying a classic produces a tremendous feeling of accomplishment, and each peak offers unique challenges. Solving the puzzles required to launch and fly these mountains safely adds a unique twist to peak bagging. Have fun and vicentus vinturus. •

!)}) Y r;;f; l!)E :l

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• Sturdy/Durable construction • Mode (and serviced) in USA 1800/729-2602 FOR YOUR LOCAL DEALE:.:;, R~l!!liiil....

PARAGLIDING ADVISORY: Used paragliders should always be thoroughly inspected before flying for the first rime. 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.

APCO SENTitA 27 - Intermediate, 70-90kg, like new, must see $1500. (805) 523-1529, skyour@vcner.com APCO SUPRA 25 - $1,400. Edel ZX 75-1 !0kg & Wills harness $695. (619) 225-8720. EDEL QUANTUM - Large, 35 hours, inspected March '98, Hero harness & reserve, all excellent conclition $2,000 OBO. John (607) 749-6928 evenings.

PARAGLIDERS AIRTEK MIRAGE - Small, excellent condition, less than 30 hours, Trace harness, reserve. Make offer. Becky (303) 786-9610. AlRTEK MIRAGE - Intermediate canopy with harness and bag, under 10 hours $1,350 for all. Jim (209) 897-3076. APCO FUTURA 42 TANDEM - New, never flown, 140-210kg., purple, new retail $4,275/sale price $2,800. Pro Design Profeel 35-performance intermediate, new never flown, 85-1 OS kg., purple, new retail $3,275/sale price $1,600. Apco Furuta 32 -performance intermediate, 70 hours, great condition, 100-120kg., yellow, new price $3,625/salc price $ I ,500. Apco Furura 30 -performance intermediate, 30 hours, excellent condition, 8510Skg., blue, new price $3,525/sale price $1,500. Edel Supers pace II-intermediate, large 85-110kg and medium 70-95kg., great condition, 95 hours, $800 each. ITV Merak 29-performance intermediate, 200 hours, good condition, 80-95kg., $400. Rick Higgins (614) 4300470.

EDEL QUANTUM - Size large, spectacular conclirion, low time. (406) 251-5789. EDEL RAINBOW - Immaculate, 70-90kg, must see $800. (805) 523-1529, skyout@vcnet.com EDEL RAINBOW - Good condition, x-rra large, Edel Prolite harness included $1,375. Must Sell!!! (805) 3842634. EDEL SABER - Medium, 30 hours, w/new Hero harness, side pockets, foam back (4 hours). Sweet at only $2,300. (503) 390-5830. EQUIPMENT SALE - Tandem harness, chute, bars $600. Rinno Bi tandem 43m, 3hrs, new $2,000. Edel Galaxy tandem-fair condition, patches $1,800. XIX Inter 33m-for beginner/intennediate, new in U.S., you'll love this glider, excellent, easy yet fun even for advanced, 4hrs, new $1,800. Nova 43 tandem, good condition $1,900. Pro Design Compact 33-good condition $1,300. LaMouette 250 motor, tandem bars, IOOhrs, excellent $3,800. LaMouette 210, excellent condition $3,000. (877) SKY-RIDE.

PLIGHT DESIGN A4 - 185-225lbs., 1 hour use, gathering dust. Deluxe harness & pack, never used. Reserve, Uvex XL helmet. Make Offer. Day (206) 3405995, bedek@cimetrix-cadcam.com FLIGHT DESIGN AS SPORT - Medium, blue, awesome enuy-intermediate wing. Stable! One season (35 hours) crispy, mint condition $1,900. Also: black Kiwi helmet, small $90. (212) 353-1986, Bbetterbei@aol.com FLIGHT DESIGN B3-29 - Excellent shape, <I 0 hours, great intermediate for -180lb pilot. Quitting flying due to health reasons, asking $975. (406) 25 l4336pm, (406) 721-9244 M-F days, ask for GM. HARMONY 27 - 10 hours, purple $2,500. (732) 246-7397 roddan@eden.rutgers.edu SUPERSPACE II 29M- 185-264lb excellent $1,200. Pro Design C',ampact 33m, 2 l 5-300lb, good $1,000. Trekking Rinno tandem 43m, 3 hours, new $2,200. LiMouerre 250 and 210 motors, good condition. 011-52-615-50174. TANDEM PROFILE - Excellent condition, great for powered paragliding too! $1,500 OBO. (805) 523-1529, skyout@vcnet.com TANDEM - UP Pick-Up, white/green, -15 hours, 200kg., towing/motor ok $2,200. (907) 244-8721 www.girdwood.net/chugach TURBOS SLIGHTLY USED GLIDERS - Fire Sale! Pro Design Max, Class 3, <20 hours (retail $4000) $995. Contest 50 $995. WW125/28M beginner $495. Several harnesses to choose from. Your Orange Counry Paramo tor dealer/trikes. (714) 495-8051.

r------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------, 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:

Number of months: ___ SECTION D Paragliders D Emergency Parachutes D Parts & Accessories D Business & Employment D Miscellaneous D Powered Paragliders D Videos

O Towing D Schools & Dealers D Ultralights O Publications & Organizations DWanted D Harnesses

Begin with _______ 19_ _ issue and run for _____ consecutive issue(s). My D check, D money order is enclosed in the amount of$ _ _ __ NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: _ _ _ _ __ PHONE: _ _ _ _ __

Number of words: _____ _ Number of words:

_ _ _ _STATE: - - - - - - - - · - - ------- - -

__ @$.50= _ _ __

- - - - @$1.00 =

USHGA, P.O Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901 (719) 632-8300 fax (719) 632-6417

PARAGLIDING

Ul' SOUL - New demo, 70-90kg, intermediate, must sec $2500. (805) 523- 1529, skyout@vcnet.com

H!CH ADVENTURE - Paragliding, hang gliding school. Equipment, sales, service at world famous Marshal Peak. USHGA randem instructor: Rob McKenzie. 13y appointment year round (909) 883-8488, www.eee.org/bus/high_adventure

WILLS W'!NG 123 - Crear Beginner, like new w/harncss $1,300 0130. (805) 523-1529, skyour@vcnet.com WILLS WING 125 - Great beginner, low hours, w/ harness $1,200 OBO. (805) 523-1 529,

SKY'N OUT PARAGLIDING CENTRE - Southern Californias year-round flying school. Beginner thru advanced certified instruction & tandem flights avail-able. Focusing on the needs of each student. Selling the latest equipment. Stephen McGarva (805) 523-1529, skyouc@vcnet.com

skyout@vcnet.co1n

POWERED PARAGLIDERS ADVENTURE F4 - Backpack motor, electric start, new prop & cage, Tinitach, I 8 hours $2,995. (770) 487--7595, email sewen10688@aol.com DK WHISPER GT - 1998, 4 hours~practically new, complete w/power rated Pro Design paraglider, 31 m $6,950 (paid $9,000) or $4,950 for motor, $2,000 for glider. (503) 390-5830. EMERGENCY PARACHUTES ADVENTURE SPORTS I.OFT - Experienced paragliding rigging center. Reserve repacks, repairs & modifications. Master Rigger Scott Christensen (909) 657-2676, fax (909) 657-3747, email asi@pe.net. Visit our web site: http://www.pe.net/-asi BRAND NEW- NAS PDA reserves, 37sq/m, 41sq/m, 100% guaranteed $425. (303) 347-8995. HARNESSES WOODY VALLEY MODEL - Is now introducing its full line of unique ltalian paragliding and hang gliding harnesses in the U niced States. For info call Eastcoast Paragliding at (914) 647-3377. Dealer inquires welcome.

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, Cornet, Edel, Firebird, ITV, Pacific Aitwave, Wills Wing and others. All skill levels welcome. PO Box 1226, Del Mar CA 92014. (619) 481-7400 Southern California. AIRJUNKIES PARAGLIDING - Join KEN BAIER for your "Pursuit of Paragliding Excellence" in the land of year-round, excellent paragliding: Southern California and the 13aja. Courses for Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Instructor racings. Powered paragliding, soaring and maneuvers clinics, guided tours, tandem and towing instruction and special events. USHGA certified. Handling the latest equipment. Call (760) 753-2664 for

L DERPORT 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive San Diego CA 92037 Since 1928

PARAGLIDING AND HANG GLIDING USHGA certified instruction, tandem flight instruction, sales, service, repairs, parachute repacks, motorized

pg/hg instruction and site tours. Southern California dealers for EDEL and SOL. Visa and Mastercard accepted. Check us out at http://www.Hytorrey.com or call (619) 452-9858. CONNECTICUT

information.

ECP- Look under New York.

AIRTEK PARAGLIDING - In sunny San Diego. Year-round thermal & ridge soaring, beginner thru advanced instruction, all major brands, l-888-2SKYIGO, phone/fax (619) 450-6696.

FLORIDA

SCHOOLS & DEALERS

SOUTHERN SKIES - Serving the SOUTHEAST, nearest MOUNTAIN FLYING, also POWERED PARAGLIDING . (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERNSKIES.NET

ARIZONA GEORGIA DIXON'S AIRPLAY PARAGLIDING - #1 School for 1997 & 1998. The perfect beginner training areas! Year round temperate climate. DRIVE UP to 360 degree treeless and rockless launches·. Land in wide open fields. Master rated tandem instructor Dixon White has supervised over 14,000 student flights to date, teaching pilors is his profession. Individualized training with scate-ofche-art equipment, 2-way radios, comprehensive ground schooling with an emphasis on micrometeorology. 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 students 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

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

SOUTHERN SKIES - Serving the SOUTHEAST, 4 hours from ATLANTA. MOUNTAIN FLYING, and POWERED PARAGLIDING. (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERNSKIES.NET AIR TIME OF SAN FRANCISCO WEST COAST PARAGLIDING THIS PREMIER PARAGLIDING FACILITY - ls now under the management of LARS LINDE of Easr Coast Paragliding and GREG SMITH of Edel USA. We are qualified to issue all possible paragliding licenses pursuant to USHGA standards. THE BEST SHOP IN THE WEST! We offer a foll spectrum of instruction, tandem, repairs and porosity tests. We stock all major brands of paragliding equipment available on the market. Enroll in our demo day-everyday program. SHOP (415) 759-1177, OFFICE (732) 747-7845. FLY ABOVE ALL - Coastal or mountain tandem available. 13est training hill in the west! Full service paragliding shop, established 1974, Santa Barbara. (805) 965-3733, www.bodytrends.com/para.htm

1998

IDAHO KING MOUNTAIN PARAGLIDING - Certified full-time SCHOOL, taught by Master rated instructor Brad Bloxham. Tandem, RETAIL, major brands, POWERED PARAGLIDERS, guide service, mountain tours, site information, including world famous King Mountain (1997 US Nationals.) SUPPLIER/MFG: The most comprehensive, educational INFO/LOGBOOK in the USA, $24.95, RADIO HARNESSES $39.95, PG CARGO/DUFFEL BAG (holds wing & cvetything else) $49.95. 10169 N 15 E, Idaho Falls, ID 8340 l. Phone or fax (208) 524-0039, email KingMtPG@aol.com, Visa/Mastercard/Discover.

Continued.from page 12. conventional, except the tips are not pulled down; this takes advantage of increased internal pressure to flatten the wing. "

STARTING PARAGLIDING VIDEO The "Sports-Class" ma e by Flight Design : The perfect glider for every pilot. Incredible safety and comfort, top performance, extremely pleasant handling -

"'"S

more than satisfying

aul Hamilton, the producer of many top-notch paragliding and hang gliding videos, spent a week at Airplay in Washington filming for a new training video. The shoot went so well that Paul has put out a "Rough Cuts" version from the video shot at Airplay. Paul plans to add training sequences from other schools in a final version sometime next year. For now, you may order a copy of this Airplay version which features many of the ideas, techniques and precision flying that is Airplay's trademark. It is perfect as an introductory video, very informative, and puts the viewer right in the middle of a typical Airplay novice class. If you've been looking for a video that will inspire your friends to take up paragliding, this is it! It's approximately 25 minutes long and sells for $19.95. Order by e-mail paraglide@paraglide. com. See www.paraglide.com or order by phone (520) 526-4579.

1998 NORTH AMERICAN PARAGLIDING CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS

r-j:"jT"ght Design ... hang gliders, airplanes, paragliders and the exxtacy. For all pilots who dream our dream of flying!

FLIGHT DESIGN North American Paragliding, Inc. Post Office Box 4 • 111 East Fourth Ave. Ellensburg, WA 98926 USA email: napi@eburg.c:om • www.fun2fly.c:om PH: 509.925.5565 Fax: 509.962.4827

1.800. 727 .2354

Place Pilot

Points

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

2000 1977 1682 1610 1477 1438 1345 1298 1179 1164 1120 1015 996 986 959 720 684 658 514 459

Marcelo Pairoa Todd Bibler Ladio Novotny Chris Davenport Alan Bradley Ricardo Parot Brett Zaenglein Eric Reed Chris Santacroce Frank Gillette Bill Belcourt Mark Ferguson Brad Bloxham Josh Cohn Paul Ferguson James "Kiwi" Johnston Juan Sikic Bernard Winkelmann Michael Reed Othar Lawrence

PARAGLIDING

MEXICO

•••

Ill

HANG GLIDING

NEW YORK

••• '''

EAST

PARAGLIDING

PAR.ACl'ILll E>I NCJ'ili

BEAUTIFUL VALLE DE 13RAVO - Open to all, rent or bring hg/pr;. 13asic packages: $100/day hg, $69/day pg. 1-800-861-7198, jeH@llymexico.com www.flymexico.com

THE NUMBER I - Rated USHGA paragliding school in rhe Unircd States 1995, 1996 and 1997. Our premier school and "WORLD CLASS STORE" arc conveniently located only 1. 5 hours outside Manhattan in the 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 fi.dl-time towing 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 (732) 747-7845. NORTH CAROLINA

ERS - 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 Ciry Ml 49684. Offering POWERED PARAGLIDING lessons & dealer for new & used units, including rhe Whisper and the Hy. Call 13ill at (616) 922-2844. Visit our paragliding school in Jackson, Wyoming. Call Tracie at (307) 7398620.

LEARN TO PARAGLIDE ,u Kitty Hawk Kites Outer Banks, NC Lessons Daily Towing & root Launch Ycar Round Sales & Service CALL TODAY! 800-334-4777 919-441-4124 !-.'-Mail Address hang-glidc@outer-banks.com

NEVADA ADVENTURE SPORTS - Mountain tours for all levels. US! !GA Certified school & racings. Dealer for all major brands. 3650-22 Research Way, Carson Ciry NV 89706. (702) 88.3-7070, email: advspts@pryamid.net web site: http://www.pyramid.net/advspts

Paragliding. OREGON

OVER THE HILi. l'ARA(;LIDING - Oregon/SW Woshington. Sales, service, beginner-advanced USI-IGA certified instruction. Nova, Firebird, Apco, AT, Pro Design, SOL, 13all, Flytec, I !ES Quantum parachutes. Se,vice: foll service shop, FAA rigger repairs/mods. Out of slate pilots: We have great thermal, coastal and Gorge sites. Call us for info. There is no sales tax in Oregon! New/used gear. Trades welcome. 22865 SF Yellowhammer, Gresham OR 97080. (503) 667-4557, fax (503) 666-6979. Email: othpara@teleport.com web: hccp://www.telcport.com/-othpara/ TEXAS HILL COUNTRY PARAGI.IDING INC - I.earn complete pilot skills. Personalized USI--!(;A certified training, ridge soaring, foot & tow launching in central Texas. MOTORIZED PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE. (915) 3791185. Rt I, !:lox l 6F, Tow TX 78672. KITE ENTERPRISES - Foot launch, payout winch tow and powered paraglider instruction too. Training, sales, rentals and repair. Edel, Airwave, Wills Wing, UI' and DK Whisper. Dallas, Fort Worth and north Texas area. 21 l Ellis, Allen TX 75002. (972) 390-9090 nights,

NEW JERSEY EC!' -

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

weekends. www.kite-enccrpris<.:s.com

Look under New York.

UTAH

For just $25, a horizontal photo of your glider or product can be featured with your classified. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

SOUTHERN SKIES - MOUNTAIN FLYING and POWERED PARAGLIDING instruction, sales and service with foll-time shop, 1 hour north of Charlotte. 7 beautiful flying sites nearby. (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERNSKIES.NET

Sell your unused equipment here. 1998

13IC SKY PARAGLIDING - Specializing in advanced training, tandems, clinics and tours, since 1990. Dale Covington 1-800-782-9204, (801) 474-2380. CLOUD 9 l'ARAGLJl)JNC - Utah's largest paragliding school. We offer BOTH AM and PM training sessions at Point of the Mountain. Para 2 certification is

$650 for the unlimired lesson package which is 1OO'Y,, applied toward the purchase of new paragliding gear. Call or email for information pack (80 I) 5 5.3-1834. Web sire is www.paraglidn.s.con1 email at

info@paragliders.com

THE SOARING CENTER - Utah's only full service paragliding and hang gliding shop and school. We offer AM and PM lessons seven days a week. We are dealers for all manufacturers. Great new and used equipment. We teach at the famous "Point of the Mountain." Free camping right where you learn. Great discount bargain lodging or luxury accommodations. Guide services, mountain tours, site information. Affordable classes. For a free information package, call toll free 1-888-9445433, email HBC3@aol.com, fax (80 I) 576-6482, 12665 S Minuteman Dr., Draper UT 84020. VIRGINIA Join us at the most CONSISTENT, EASY, CONVENIENT drive up, beginner and intermediate site in the world! GREAT WEATHER and YEAR-ROUND flying, only 30 minutes from Sale Lake City Internacional Airport. GUIDING available to all UTAH SITES, close to INCREDIBLE national parks and the BEST skiing anywhere! SCOTTY ALAN MARION is a full time USHGA CERTIFIED instructor and TANDEM instructor. Our goal is to have the most THOROUGHLY TRAINED, HIGHEST QUALITY SAFE PILOTS! We specialize in FRIENDLY, PATIENT, PERSONAL instruction (MAXIMUM of 2 in a class). COMPREHENSIVE ground school includes: simulator, micro and macro meteorology, reserve and aerodynamic theocy.

So you ve got your P2, NOW WHAT? Ask about our P2 PLUS program. This program is designed around the huge NEED for pilots to CONTINUE in EDUCATION and SKILL development. Special skills and education include: judging conditions on launch, launching tactics, turn coordination, 360' s, spot landing caccics, big ears, speed system, cop landings, side hill landings, ground handling, highwind ceclmiqucs, mountain flying, ridge and thermal SOARING! DON'T calce shortcuts with aviation! FLY for LIFE and LOVE every minute of itl POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN PARAGLIDING PO Box 616 Draper UT 84020 (801) 89-UFLY2 email scocty@pointofchemournain.com www.pointofthemountain.com

No time to mail your ad? Fax it, 24 hours a day! (719) 632-6417 56

KITTY HA WK KITES -

See North Carolina.

SOUTHERN SKIES -- Serving the SOUTHEAST, I hour from Virginia state line. MOUNTAIN FLYING and POWERED PARAGLIDING. (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERN SKIES.NET WASHINGTON DIXON'S AIRPlAY PARAGLIDING - #1 School for 1997 & 1998. This Northwest training center is located on the Eastern side of the Cascades where the weather is good year round! This 1,600 acre private flight park is ideal for the beginner with drive-up open launches and large landing fields. Individualized training with state-of-the-art equipment, 2-way radios, comprehensive ground schooling with an emphasis on micrometeorology. Great new and used invencocy. Specialized clinics including the CAGE and BACKPACK MOTORS. One hour from the CHElAN BUTIE. Ask about on-site lodging and rnmping. On-site climbing wall, skiing, mountain biking, etc. Dave Bridges, US National Champion says, "Dixon's students arc extremely well-trained and competent pilots." Dixon's Paragliding in Washington and Ariwna (appointments recommended), 8101 Hay Canyon Road, Cashmere WA 98815. (509) 782-5543. www.paraglide.com WISCONSIN RAVEN SKY SPORTS - Largest and most popular in rhc Midwest. Training hills and winch towing for paragliders. Sales & Service! PO Box l Ol, Whitewater Wl 53190. (414) 473-8800, brad@hanggliding.com PARTS & ACCESSORIES

BRAND NEW AIRMIC- $65. By NAS (che one that works.) Not for Kenwood. Talk and hear chru ear, PTT switch. (303) 347-8995.

GIANT PARAGLIDING PACKS you can unzip to form a tarp to protect your glider from UV and dirt. $165 +$6 shipping, MC/Visa. Guaranteed. Critter Mountain Wear, 86 Jacquelyn Lane, Crested Butte CO 81224. Tel/fax (970) 349-9326, email critter@crestedbutte.net www.crittermtnwear.com In stock for imme-

diate delivery. HAVE EXTRA EQUIPMENT - That you don't know what to do with. Advertise in the Paragliding classifieds, $.50 per word, $5 minimum. Call USHGA for details (719) 632-8300, ushga@ushga.org or fax your ad with a Visa/MC, fax (719) 632-6417.

Windsok. Made of 1.5 oz. ripstop nylon, UV treated, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Available colors fluorescent pink/yellow or fluorescent pink/white. $39.95 (+$4.75 S/H). Send ro USHGA Windsok, P.O. Box l 330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330, (719) 632-8300, fax (719) 632-6417. VISA/MC accepted. KENTUCKIANA SOARINGS - Fingerswitch radio headset, by Flight Connections. HEAVY-DUTY w/finger mounted switch, communicate w/hands on control bar or brakes. Safer flying, more reliable communications. 90 day mfg warranty, w/repair service available beyond warranty. For Yaesu, learn, Alinco, Kenwood & other compatible radios. l'ull face or open helmets. $89 +$3.50 shipping, MC/Visa, dealer inquires invited. Kentuckiana Soaring, 425 N Taggart Ave., Clarksville IN 47129. (812) 288-71 l l, fax (812) 284-4115. SPECIALIZING IN COMMUNICATIONS.

Jan./Feb. 1999 classifieds deadline: Nov. 20 PARAGLIDING

KENTUCKlANA SOARING Communications Spccialistl Best Prices & Best Service'

PUBLICATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!

VARIOS: BALL & FLYTEC. ............................. $CALL RADIOS-ALL MODELS AVAILABLE SPECIAL-ICOM T2A 2 meter Plus ready-to-go, tx/rx !36-I 74 ................................. $250.00 YAESU 1-'T! 1R ............................. 5 warr. ........ $305.00 5/8 TELESCOPIC: ANTENNA ......................... $20.95 5/8 GAIN DUCK ANTENNA .......................... $17.95 MOBILES ...................................... from $275-$305.00 TUNE UP w/Warranty Intact ....................... $35-50.00 MISCELLANEOUS: HOOK KNIFE ................ $14.95 KENTUC:I<IANA SOARING, 425 N Taggart Avenue, Clarksville IN 47129, (812) 288-7111 fax (812) 28/r-4115 MAGIC HELMETS - By Sol. Full face, kevlar with DuPont Cool Max interior make the Magic the top helmet on the marker. Visit the Magic web site at www.bigairparagliding.com/solmagicrcvicw.htm or contact Sol at (801) 55.o-1834 for a catalogue. MINT VARIO -

PARAGLIDING: THE COMPLETE GUIDE - By Noel Whirrall. The most complete guide to paragliding on the market. Over I 00 color photographs & illustrations. 200 pages, $26.95 +$4.75 s/h. USHGA, PO Box 1330. Colorado Springs CO 8090 I. (719) 632-8300, fax your MC/Visa to (719) 632-641"/, www.L1Shga.org. SOARING - Monthly magazine of The Soaring Society of America, Inc. Covers all aspects of soaring flight. Full membership $55. Info. kit with sample copy $3. SSA, P.O. Box E, Hobbs, NM 88241. (505) 392-1177.

World's smallest, simplest vario! Clips

to helmet or chinstrap. 200 hours on batteries, 0-18,000

TOWING

ft., fast response and 2 year warranty. Great for paragliding too. ONLY $169. Mallertec, PO Box 15756, Santa Ana CA, 92735. (714) %6-1240, www.mallettec.com MC/Visa accepted.

TllT TOW RIG - On trailer, modified for paraglider, with g,,illotine, 3000' spectra line. Home (816) 5870823, work (816) 391-6200.

VARIO KIT $70 - Soar with your hand made vario 1 Hiryu Mfg. http://home.m.ne.jp/red/FIY, fax: 011-8143-279-4627 Japan. BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Eastcoast Paragliding Center is looking for paragliding instructors to join its team. !'or info call Lars Linde at (908) 747-7845. PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTOR WANTED - For growing paragliding program. Raven Sky Sports (414) 473-8800. TANDEM PARAGUDING BUSINESS - for sale in tropical Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Boat tow-launched tandem PG, prime beach concession, permits. 1-'or a profitable lifestyle in paradise, call Derek: May-Oct (403) 270-7678 email: rainbow@cadvision.com; NovApril O11-52-329-22742 email: mariposa(LVpvnet.com.n1x

Be sure to check out USHGA's Web page: www.ushga.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

VIDEOS FLY HARD: Viking Films newest release. Rob Whittall, Chris Santacroce & a vintage Buick convertible full of paragliders. Ourrageous flying at several west coast flying sites. Meet J-IG acrobatics champion Mitch McAleer along the way. Excellent rock soundtrack, professionally filmed & edited $35.95. POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN by East Coast, hg/pg action at this Utah mecca $29. l'ARAGLIDE: THE MOVIE by Viking films. Rock-n-roll world class competition at Owens Valley. Professionally filmed & edited $.'35.95. Call or fax USHGA (719) 632-8300, fax (/19) 632-6417, please add .,$4 domestic s/h (+$5 for two or more videos). Great to impress your friends or for those socked-in days. MISCELLANEOUS ARGENTINA PARAGLIDING TOURS-Three different flying sites, 14 days all inclusive $1,300. Contact Condor Paragliding Adventures: gcondor@lycosmail.com VIDEOS & BOOKS - Call USHCA for your Merchandise order form (719) 632··8300, fax (719) 6326417, email: ushga@ushga.org, www.ushga.org DON'T LEAVE YOUR GROUND-BOUND EQUIPMENT SITTING IN THE GARAGE. SELL IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS.

1998

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES The rate for classified advertising is$. 50 per word (or group of characters) and $1. 00 per word for bold or all caps. Phone number=2 words, PO Box=2 words, weight range i.e. l 37- l 85lbs=2 words, web site or email address=3 words. MINIMUM AD CHARGE $5.00. A fee of $15.00 is charged for each line arr logo and $25.00 for each photo. LINEART & PHOTO SIZE NO LARGER THAN 1.75" X 2.25". Please underline words to be in bold J2]:i_n_1:, Special layouts of tabs are $25.00 per column inch. AD DEADLINES: November 20th is the deadline for the January/Februaiy issue. Please make checks payable to USHGA. Send to: PARAGLIDING MAGAZINE, Classified Advertising, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330 (71 9) 632-8300 or fax (719) 632-6417, email jjelgarr@ushga.org with your Visa or Mastercard.

INDEX

ADVERTISERS

Adventure Productions ................. , 5 Aerolight USA/APC0 ....... ., ........ 27 Airwave ....................................... 51 Ball Varios ..................... ., ............ 51 Brauniger ...................................... 5 Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ......... 39 Edel ........ , ...................... 2,20,21,39 Fire bird America .................... 30,31 Flight Design & NAPI.. .............. 54 Fly Products ................................ 22 Flytec .......................................... 14 FreeX .......................................... 11 Gruppo Adesso ........................... 54 Hall Brothers ............................ ., .. 9 Mescalito .. , ..... ., ..................... 22,51 Mojo's Gear ...................... ., .... 13,47 NAS ..................... , ...................... 38 Nova ................... ., ...................... 22 Parasoft .......................... ., ........... 13 Pro Design .... ., .............. Back Cover Sky Dog Publications .................... 9 Sol ................................................ 7 Sport Aviation Publications ....... .,39 Sup' Air . ., ........ ., .......................... 14 Thermal Tracker ......................... 5,9 USHGA ...... , ... 9, 13, 15, 17, 19,38,50 West Coast Paragliding ....... ., ...... 59 Wills Wing .... .,., .... ., .................... 19

by Peter Reagan out five years ago I wrote an article called Flying Disorder," which described the ddictive quality of our pastime. Aside from the obvious glory of our experiences in the air, there are enough aspects of the sport that resemble casino gambling to give pause. First is compulsion. People gamble because of the Pavlovian principle of variable-ratio reinforcement. This means that you never know what you are going ro get when you make an attempt, but every once in a while you strike it rich. This is pretty similar to what happens when we launch our gliders. Pavlov found this to be the single most powerful method to modify behavior, and found that research animals would literally work themselves to death given a variable-ratio reinforcement schedule. Which brings up the other point. We occasionally do fly ourselves to death, and sometimes our values are distorted by our compulsion. When I originally wrote the article, several people asked what I thought the cure for the disorder was. I don't know, but I think recognition of the potential problems is important. We each need to examine our flying continuously in light of the following question: Is my flying experience distorting my judgment in a dangerous way? Occasionally, some of us may need to curtail or even quit flying. In some cases, we may need each other's help to maintain our perspective. On the other hand, I think we can explore the psychological and spiritual aspects of this wondrous experience carefully- just like we explore the engineering, skill and technique aspects of it ·- and arrive at an understanding that will keep most of us sane and still able to fly.

Since I last wrote, there have been rwo fatalities in our community. The more well-known was Willi Muller at Chelan Butte in Washington. EARLY JULY, CHEIAN BUTTE A 53-year-old biwingual tandem instructor with extremely extensive experience launched a very high aspect ratio competition glider in light thermal conditions. He scratched for lift low on the Butte at perhaps 300 feet AGL when he suffered a massive asymmetric collapse, most likely caused by thermal turbulence. He was observed struggling with the brakes, but he was unable to recover normal flight and entered a rapid spin, impacting at high speed and dying almost instantly. His wing was found to have asymmetric trim settings, but this could have occurred during or after the impact. Willi's death represents another great loss to the paragliding community. This tragedy causes one to reflect carefully on the use of very high aspect ratio gliders like the one Willi was flying. To repeat a concept from an earlier article: an excellent pilot is obviously safer on a competition wing than a weekend pilot is, but no matter who we are, we are all safest on a more stable wing. It's also important to recognize that someone who flies every day has a greater chance of experiencing bad luck in the air than someone who flies once a

week. Risks multiply, so a daily flyer on an extreme wing may be at substantially higher risk of experiencing a severe accident than a weekend flyer on a more sedate vehicle. LATE MAY, ROCKY MOUNTAIN SITE, EVENING GLASS-OFF CONDITIONS A 30-year-old P2 pilot was ridge soaring with a few friends. His canopy was seen flying normally after he sank below the visible horizon, ostensibly as he was approaching a landing. The actual impact was unwitnessed. No one was concerned and nothing appeared amiss, but shortly thereafter he was discovered unconscious and not breathing. Resuscitation was unsuccessful. His helmet was scratched but there was no other equipment damage. H!s injuries included a neck fracture and brain contusmns. He had been unrated for many years, flying very occasionally on an Excalibur. He had very recently been trained and rated, and updated to brand-new equipment with a full-face helmet, protective harness, and an excellent and stable DHV 1-2 wing. The exact sequence of events during the crash will never be known. His injuries suggest a tangential impact at high speed. In smooth air, and with no apparent equipment problems, a glider malfunction appears unlikely. Lacking further information, this incident inspires the following thoughts. A modern DHV 1-2 wing is a precision flying machine. It has excellent performance and speed, but tolerates turbulence and collapses well. However, its good performance results in a more subtle danger that is critical ro understand. These wings fly more like hang gliders than the old bombproof wings we learned on a decade ago, like the Excalibur. They are faster and harder to land because their glide ratios are so good. Though less likely to malfunction in the air, they are less forgiving of pilot error. Their safe turning radius is prob-· ably greater. Flare timing is more important and glide estimation more difficult. Spot landing is harder, and that means top landing is harder. These problems cannot be engineered out of the glider, and must be accepted as inevitable tradeoffs for better performance. If you double the horsepower of a car it doesn't make the car harder to steer, but it lets the driver go much faster, and he is thus more likely to get hurt. These considerations suggest that we reevaluate our flying parameters, and perhaps our training programs. We may well have something to learn from the history of hang gliding here. At the very least, I believe we need to look at the places we land and reconsider using the smaller ones, at least where less-experienced pilots are concerned. Perhaps we should redefine safe operating parameters at various skill levels. Finally, when making a substantial equipment upgrade, a pilot needs to carefully retrain himself to become familiar with the higher-performing gear. Many accidents accompany such transitions. The step up from an Excalibur to a Relax may be almost greater than from a skydiving canopy to an Excalibur. Hang pilots will often return to the training hill when they buy a new, hotter wing.

In a somewhat similar vein, here is another accident. SOUTHWESTERN COASTAL SITE, MAY A pilot with three years and 25 hours of experience attempted a no-wind launch on a short, steep slope by doing a running reverse inflation. The glider was partly inflated when he turned, ran to the brink of the cliff and leaned out as the glider turned off to one side. He lost his balance and fell, breaking his arm. The pilot feels he should have aborted the launch. During our training flights we tend to do a lot of zero-wind launches on very docile slopes, with pretty polite gliders. As we progress, we tend not to modify our expectations when it comes to more difficult conditions or more sophisticated equipment. How many times have we all experienced high-velocity rolls in the gravel, or the salal, or the low trees in front of launch because we failed to take this into account. We learn many launch and landing techniques during our training, but they are all very dependent on the exact conditions, the geometry of the site, and our specific equipment, as well as our training. Last summer I had a very eager, athletic and light prospective tandem passenger at a beach site with a lot of salal in front, on a day with about a four-mph uphill wind. On a good day one soars for hours here. We had one good launch and rwo high-speed rumbles in the underbrush. Some pilots learn slowly. Luckily, no one was hurt. (I hate that sentence.) Here's an interesting accident with several themes. SOUTHWEST COASTAL SITE An advanced biwingual pilot on a competition wing noticed that he was being blown back. He tried to descend out over the water, pulling ears and drifting back into a rocky area. He landed well, but was dragged across the rocks and injured, until his wing was caught in the surf. He was able to disconnect the risers, and friends were eventually able to recover the glider. Luckily, no one was killed. Several observations: This time it wasn't the glider's fault. Big ears increase sink but also decrease speed, and depending on the exact situation will often make blow-back worse, not better. A deflation in a rough, high-wind situation needs to be planned ahead of time and initiated before touchdown. B or C line stalls may be safest, and can be begun before landing, in place of the flare. Wings in surf are extremely dangerous, and the danger is heightened if the pilot is injured. ALWAYS CARRY A HOOK KNIFE! I think one should consider carrying flotation gear over serious water. One subtle, additional problem with surflandings is that modern harnesses trap a lot of air and may invert the pilot in the water and drown him. Whew! Please report your accidents! Remember the old adage that if we are ignorant of history we are doomed to repeat it. II

PARAGLIDING