USHGA Paragliding March/April 1999 by US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association

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US Distribution West Coast Paragliding 3620 Wawon a St. San Francisco CA 9 4 116 Phone (415) 759-9011 Fa x (415) 759- 1 182 www.air-time .com / free X

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PARAGLIDING • MARCH/APRIL 1999

AIR MAIL

USHG~ REPORTS

Editor's Corner

RATINGS

TURKISH D ELIGHT

~), Kim Galvin

Calendar Of Events

CLASSIFIEDS COMPETITION I NVlGORATES NORTHEAST PARAGLIDING by Rolf Fuessler

DISCWMER OF

TIERRA Y CIELo EN MExlco by Mark Dale

COVER· Othar Lawrence flying the new Gin Gliders Bonanza at

EQUJPMfu'\lT R.Evmw:THE SKYTREK PARAGUDING PACK by 1Wark Dale

Ef Pinon, Vaffe de Bravo, Mexico. Photo by

Jeffrey Farreff.

MEETTHE 1999 U.S.PARAGLIDING WoRLDTEAM compiled by Chris Santacroce

WARRANTIES IN PUBL1CA'n0NS: The material pre· scnted bere is publlshed a:; pan of ,UJ information clisseminat ion service for

USHGA members. 111e USHGA makes no warrnmies or rcprcscntatioru, and assumes no liability concerning the validity of any advice, opinion or recommendation expressed in the material. All individuals relying upon the material do so at rheir own risk. Copyright © 1999 Unlted States Hang Gliding Assn .. Inc. All rights reserved to Pamglidlng and indi\iduaJ

contributors.

MARCH/APRIL

1999

Gil Dodgen, Managing Editor/Editor-in-Chief Steve Roti, Contributing Editors 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, emelgart@ushga.org Natalie Hinsley, Merchandise Services, njhinsley@ushga.org John Halloran, Administrative Director jghalloran@ushga.org USHGA Officers and Executive Committee:

Gregg lawless, President Chris DuPaul, Vice President Russ Locke, Secretary Geoff Mumford, Treasurer REGION 1: Bill Bolosky, Steve Roti. REGION 2: Russ Locke, Ray Leonard, Scott Casparian. 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: Paul Klemond, Paul Rikert, Dan Johnson, Jan Johnson, Dennis Pagen. HONORARY DIRECTORS: Bob Hannah, John Harris, Steve Kroop, Larry Sanderson (SSA), Ed Pitman, Chris Dupaul, Gene Matthews, Lars Linde, Alan Chuculate, , Ken Brown, Rob Kells, David Glover, Michael Robertson, Greg DeWolf, Tracie Fifer-Welch. EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS: Art Greenfield (NM). 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, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, phone (949) 8887363, fax (949) 888-7464, e-mail: GilDodgen@aol.com. The USHGA is a member-controlled sport organization dedicated to the exploration and promotion of all facets of unpowered ultralight flight, and to the education, training and safety of its membership. Membership is open to anyone interested in this realm of flight. Dues for full membership are $54.00 per year (of which $15 goes to the publication of Paraglidin[fJ, ($65 non-U.S.); subscription rates only are $26.00 ($32 non-U .5.). Changes of address should be sent six 1-veeks 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) 632-6417. PERIODICAL POSTAGE is paid at Colorado Springs, CO and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: SEND CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: PARAGLIDING, P.O. BOX 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330.

MARCH/APRIL

1999

STANDARD CHUTE-PACKING PRACTICES? Dear Editor, I just attended a great chute clinic hosted by Lisa and Tracey at Cloud 9 Hang Gliding in Central Washington. Betty Pfeiffer presented the clinic and supervised the repacking. It was the most thorough and informative clinic I have ever attended. I am very fortunate to have had my parachute inspected and packed by an expert with Betty's experience. I am concerned, however, by the lack of standardization and certification of packing and packers. I have had my chute packed by six different but very knowledgeable individuals at shops and clinics during the last 10 years. Every time my chute was packed with a different technique and the particular packer criticized the previous pack. To me this is very disconcerting. Certainly there is more than one technique that will work in an emergency situation, but there must be a "best" or "better" way that has evolved from deployment analysis. Is this cause for standardization of chute packing and perhaps certification of packers? I would not mind paying a little more for the confidence of knowing that my chute was packed in the most dependable way, and would seek out a certified packer. The liability implications would not be any greater than for an instructor, and perhaps less if a standard practice were adopted. Bob Reich Fort Wayne, IN

MAGAZINE COMMENTS

issues! This is an invaluable tool for the weekend pilot looking to buy a glider. Alan's reviews are very complete, useful, and without advertising fluff. We are fortunate to have someone like Alan who is taking the time to do this. I am very much looking forward to the announced release date of the combined magazine. I do find it a bit disturbing that many readers are concerned about paragliding overshadowing hang gliding, and I think that this is unlikely in the U.S. There are many factors that probably caused paragliding to mushroom in Europe, which I recently visited. Ever tried to strap a hang glider to the top of a tiny Fiat or Renault and drive it around on the sidewalks - I mean roads, they have over there? Or store one in the tiny flats they live in? Yikes. I believe that hang gliding will have no problem surviving here in the land of big 4x4's, large driveup launches, and world-class pilots. It is my humble opinion that you should reassure the membership that, as editor of the new publication, a takeover of one form of free flight is not possible. I'm looking forward to learning more about hang gliding. Let's have that new mag! I do have a question. Why are we publishing the school rankings in the Ratings section? I find the Ratings section a bit much. As far as I'm concerned, you get your card from the USHGA, you get your rating, and away you go. I can see how some folks - my wife, for example like to see their names in the magazine, but the school rankings are redundant. Isn't this one more page we could sell to an advertiser or use for more editorial material? Mark Sivazlian Helena, MT

Dear Editor, I am very happy to see that you are publishing glider reviews in Paragliding. I am looking forward to more in future

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Contributing To Paragliding by Gil Dodgen, Editor soteric special-interest publications like Paragliding are in a unique situation: The only people who have anything of interest to say to paraglider pilots are other paraglider pilots. We thus rely to a great extent on contributions from our readers, the USHGA membership. Paraglidingwelcomes contributions of all kinds: articles, illustrations and photographs. We do receive a lot of material and greatly appreciate it, but unfortunately we can't use it all. Space is always a limitation, and a large number of factors must be taken into consideration article balance, time sensitivity, the quality of the material, how long contributions have been in our editorial pipeline, etc. In addition, unanticipated last-minute problems or changes often cause difficulties and require a sudden change in publication planning. Space availability is often difficult to predict well in advance, because our "must-include" material varies from issue to issue: display and classified advertising, calendar items, ratings, incident reports, news items, USHGA business, etc. Publication planning is often a balancing act on a moving tightrope. This article is part of an effort to improve our system of dealing with contributions and contributors. All advertising materials and queries should be directed to Jeff Elgart at USHGA Headquarters. Editorial material (news and calendar items, articles, photos, etc.) may be submitted directly to the editor al the addresses below by regular mail or e-mail. Please include a self-addressed envelope for the return of materials, and a phone number or e-mail address is greatly appreciated so we can contact you easily. At this writing we have implemented a system of logging contributions that do not appear in the issue under construction, and

we may wish to hang on to your material for some time with the idea of publishing it in the future. A5 mentioned, we receive more editorial material than we have room for, and we may eventually need to return your article or photos. Please accept our apologies in this event, and know that we greatly appreciate your effort. When submitting e-mail it is best to paste the article copy directly into the body of the e-mail message as text-only (ASCII), preferably without end-of-line hard returns. Attachments are often problematic because of word processor, software version, and operating system incompatibilities. (We use Macs, since the publishing industry is standardized on this hardware and OS.) For color reproduction, transparencies (slides) are best, but we do use a lot of color prints with articles. We virtually never use prints for the cover. E-mail submission of photos is not recommended except for review purposes. Typical jpeg and tiff files (which look great on your computer monitor) rarely contain enough data for reproduction at the resolutions required for four-color printing, unless they end up very small in the magazine. It is best to submit original photos and let us scan them. Photo CD scans will usually be acceptable for reproduction, but please do not e-mail them because of the size of the files. Thank you for your contributions to Paragliding. We greatly appreciate the time and effort expended on behalf of our readership.

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The editor may be contacted at: Gil Dodgen, 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy., Suite A-256, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (949) 888-7363 (phone), (949) 888-7464 (fax), Gi!Dodgen@aol.com. JeffElgart may be contacted at jjelgart@ushga.org. Ill

3rd Annual Super Clinic

Aspen Paragliding, Inc. 426 So. Spring St. Aspen, CO 81611 tel: 970 925-7625 I fax: 970 925-7710 email: climbfly@rof.net Web: aspen.com/paragliding 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 UNTIL DEC. 31: 1999 Yearlong World Soaring Challenge, for paragliding, hang gliding, sailplanes. No entry fee or registration, $600 first prize. Pilots are scored by how far they fly relative to a site's distance record (750 points for flying 75 miles at a site with a 100-mile record, 1,100 points for breaking the record). Flights submitted on the honor system. For more details contact: John Scott (310) 4476234, fax (310) 447-6237, brettonwoods@email.msn.com, www.keyinc.com/wsc/ JULY 11-18: 1999 Gorge Games Fly-In, during the Gorge Games Outdoor Championships. Fly-In competition held on the best day of flying during the week-long festival of outdoor sport competition and concerts. The GG's have been a great success in the past two years with a bounry of awards for spot-landing, duration aloft and combined, as well as week-long accumulated and farthest X-C miles. Entry includes grab bag, T-shirt and dinner. $30 pre-registration, $35 in the LZ. Contact: GorgeAir, Box 323, Bingen, WA 98605 (509) 493-2070, jamon@gorge.net,www.gorgegames.com/ AUG. 20-22: Second Annual New England Paragliding Competition, West Rutland, Vermont, hosted by the New England Paragliding Club. Competition includes crosscountry, soaring, defined tasks, spot landings. Open to all New England and New York State P2 or higher-rated pilots. $25 fee prior to weekend/$45 during weekend. Proceeds go to improving sites throughout New England. Come for the flying, raffle, rodeo, equipment manufacturers, or just plain fun. Contact: Scott Berk (617) 825-3188, sberk@animationtech.com. SEPT. 2-8: Red Bull Wings Over Aspen, Aspen, CO. U.S. National Paragliding Championships and hang gliding aerobatics competition. Open Class and DHV 2-3/Afnor Performance Class for paragliding. $25,000 in prize money awarded down to 10th place in both hang gliding and paragliding. Nightly parties, live music, big fun. Register early to ensure a position. Contact:

Red Bull Wings Over Aspen, P.O. Box 10835, Aspen, CO 81612 (970) 618-3038, fax (970) 544-6522, redbullwoa@aspen.com, Aspen.com/ redbullwoa. SEPT. 11-18: 1998 USHGA sanctioned points competition at Snowbird, UT. Open-distance tasks so that we can also attempt a new U.S. distance record. Gliders must be stock, serialclass gliders. Contact: Ken Hudonjorgensen, Two-can Fly Paragliding, 474 E. Tonya Dr., Sandy, UT 84070 (801) 572-3414, khudonj@uswest.com.

FUN FLYING MARCH 26-28: Paragliding family fly-in and expo in Sun Valley. Three days of paragliding from 3,000-ft. Mt. Baldy. Includes aerobatics, commercial tandem flying, educational clinics for mountain flying, product exposition, worldclass pilots from around the world representing major manufacturers, social functions. Activities and entertainment for the entire family. P2 rating minimum requirement. Bald Mountain, at 9,360', has three launches accessed by high-speed ski lifts. The LZ (at 5,800') is within a few hundred yards of the lifts. Smooth morning flights with thermal soaring in the afternoon. Contact: Garth Callaghan Paragliding/Sun Valley Paragliding, Kiwi@sunvalley.net, (208) 726-3332. APRIL 10-11: First Annual Hearne Spring Tow-Fest, municipal airport at I fearne, TX. Fun competition and taxi-way parry. Hang gliding and paragliding. Awards for spot-landing, X-C, duration, etc. Camping at airport. Contact: Len Smith (281) 693-7311, leonard.smith@stoneweb.com. APRIL 29-31: 22nd Annual Star Thistle Fly-In. HG and PG, Woodrat Mountain in southern Oregon. Barbecue, prizes, excellent flying and a whole lot of fun. Contact: (541) 899-7327, chriswic@shared.net. MAY 1-2: MayDay Fly-In at the Point ofthe Mountain, to raise money for local chariry. All free-flyers welcome for a weekend of fun, food and fancy. Only $20 plus UHGA membership. Contact: Lisa Verzella at altair@micron.net. MAY 7-10: 27th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular and Air Games at Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head, NC and Currituck Counry Airport, Currituck, NC. The oldest continuous hang gliding competition in the world and airsports expo including skydiving,

paragliding, ultralights and more. Dune competitions begin on the 7th. Demonstrations, aerotow competition, street dance and awards ceremony. Contact: Ann Thompson, Kitry Hawk Kites, Inc. (252) 441-4127 ext. 11, annie@kitryhawk.com. OCT. 1-3: October's Best Fly-In, at Sauratown Mountain near Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The event's eighth edition welcomes paragliding for the first time at a new slope launch on the mountain's top. Still featuring the East Coast's finest cliff launch, "flowthrough" ramps, a variery of usable wind directions. Aerotowing returns for a second year as does a full-time cafeteria in the LZ. Events start Friday morning with judging Saturday and Sunday. For skill level and other info contact: Doug Rice (336) 994-4377, AppaPhoro@aol.com (hang gliding), or Ben Thomas (336) 723-0824, k4zep@bellsouth.net (paragliding). Web site linked to USHGA. AUG. 7-8: Regional 11 Tow Contest, municipal airport at Hearne, TX. Fun competition and taxi-way party. Hang gliding and paragliding. Awards for spot-landing, X-C, duration, etc. Camping at airport. Contact: Len Smith (281) 693-7311, leonard.smith@stoneweb.com. AUG. 23-28: 26th Annual Telluride Ainnen 's Rendezvous. Six days of fun flying with 25,000' ceiling, full launch staff with EMT's, regular convoys, T-shirt, parties (free beer!), contests, prizes, special events and much more! Entry $75. Contact: Catherine Sautter, bodyworks@mail.independence.net.

CLINICS/MEETINGS/TOURS UNTIL APRIL: Winter Flying Mecca in Mexico. You've heard of Valle de Bravo. Packages by the day. Come for a day, a week or a month. Contact: 1-800-861-7198, www.flymexico.com, jeff@flymexico.com. THROUGH NOV. 1999: "Owens Valley at its Best" Cross-Country. Thermal guide to the Owens Valley with Kari Castle. One- to nineday adventures. Private one-on-one flying, guide service and instruction also available. Hike 'n' fly the peaks of the Sierras and White Mts. Contact Kari for more information: karicastle@telis.org (760) 872-2087. MARCH 20-APRIL 2: Paragliding and surfing trip to Indonesia, Bali and Java. Limited to 6 or 8 pilots. Also, paragliding trips to Israel in May and Annecy-France and Spain in September.

PARAGLIDING

Contact: Kinsley Wong, Big Air ParaGliding, 164 Boeker Ave., Shell Beach, CA 93449-2012, http://www.BigAirParaGliding.com, phone/fax (805) 773-9200. APRIL 2-3: Powered Paragliding Clinic by USHGA Certified Advanced Instructor Hugh Murphy, California Central Coast. Syllabus covers smooth transition from non-powered to powered paragliding with a safe, easy learning curve. Bring your equipment or demo ours. APRIL 9-10: California Coast Ridge Soaring Clinic by Hugh Murphy. Soar the Golden State's beautiful coastal sites from Big Sur to Santa Barbara in smooth ocean breezes. APRIL 16-17: Powered Paragliding Clinic II. APRIL 23-24: California Coast Ridge Soaring Clinic II. Contact: Surf The Sky Paragliding (805) 5448190, hmurphy@tcsn.net. MAY 27-31: Fifth Annual Demo Days and Safety Seminars, Point of the Mountain, UT. Informative seminars from industry experts. Try out new products: paragliders, motorized paragliders, harnesses, flight suits, tandem glid-

ers, oxygen systems, helmets, etc. Every make and size glider available in the U.S. Nonprofit event. $50 pre-registration before May 1, $60 after. $25 goes to Utah HGA for your membership dues and to aid in their efforts to save the Point. Sponsored by The Soaring Center. Contact: 12665 S. Minuteman Dr. #1, Draper, UT 84020 (801) 576-6460, fax (801) 5766482, HBC3@aol.com,

MAY 22: US. Paragliding Team party/slide show/raffle fond-raiser, Chelan, WA ($1 0 admission). MAY 21-24: Beginner Thennal through Advanced Cross-Country Courses ($40 per day). Improve your thermal and crosscountry flying with lessons from the U.S. Paragliding Team. Paragliding Team T-shirts are available for $25 and stickers for $5. Sponsors and raffle donors needed. Contact: chris@firebirdusa.com. Stay tuned to www.kurious.org/usteam99 for updates. JUNE-SEPT.: Paragliding adventure tours in Turkey. Two to three weeks long, seven sites.

Includes travel (in Turkey), retrieval, accommodations, food, national park fees, etc. Custom tours available. Contact: Wild Turkey Adventures, Hakim Mentes, 425 High St., KEW 3101 Australia, tel. (w) 61-3-9853 8921, (mobile) 61-412 617 216, hmentes@ozemail.com.au, www.ozemail.com.au/ ~ hmentes/WtldT urkey.htm. JUNE 23-27: Third Annual Super Clinic, Aspen, Colorado. Hosted by Aspen Paragliding. Variety of instructional seminars by some of the top instructors in North America including Dave Bridges, Chris Santacroce, Dick Jackson, Dixon White, Othar Lawrence and others. Seminars and clinics cover beginning to advanced skills, launch techniques, thermal flying, X-C and competition preparation, maneuvers, ground handling, active flying, reserve packing and deployment, glider maintenance, tandem flying, etc. A variety of glider manufacturers will also be on hand to provide glider and equipment demos. Contact: Aspen Paragliding (970) 925-7625, fax (970) 925-7710, climbfly@rof.net.

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MARCH/APRIL

1999

CaH 1"800"523..7666 Please Mention Priority Code]LWO When Calling.

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

There are costs assoliared wirh the use of this credit tard. You may contact the issuer and admmiscrator of rhis program, MDNA Ameriu" Bank, to request specific information ab<lllt the lm.ts by (ailing l-800-52 )-7666 or by writing to PO Box I 5020, Wilmin!;ton, DE l 9850. *Certain re-'>trictions apply to rh1!> benefit and others described m the materials sent soon after your account is opened. Preferred Card Customer benefits difft'r from Platimm1 Plus benefits: Common Carner Travel Accident Insurance coverage 1s up to $150,000; and there are addition,11 costs for Registry benefits. MBNA America, MBNA, a?d Plati1111m Plus are .'.t'tV!CC marks of MBNA America Bank, N.A. Visa is a federally registered service mark of Visa U.S.A. Inc., used pursuant to license. © 1998 MBNA America Bank, N.A. ADb-lACE-9/98 AD-09-98-0010

merly appeared under the Mescalito label (see ad in Nov./Dec. '98 Paragliding, page 22) . Thin Red Line towing products are designed for use by commercial operators and X-C teams, where precision, reliability and speed are the key to success. Especially noteworthy are the quick-clip "harness claws" which ensure perfect load transferal from towline to risers, new chongo-style sewn weak links in 20-lb. increments featuring guaranteed accuracy to within five percent, two entirely different releases suitable for super-wide load ranges and no slap-back, and color-coded Specua towline, custom manufactured for Thin Red Line.

Tandem StuffBag Harnesses ormer Mescalito Adventure Co. designer Maxim de Jong, best known for his Alpine 700 harness, now heads up cuttingedge concept development at his new company, Thin Red Line. De Jong is pictured during recent testing of his all-new harness, the Scorched Earth, designed for adventuresome pilots on their most ambitious outings. It weighs an amazing 420 grams (0.93 lb.) while maintaining an unbelievable 20kN+ (4,500 !bf+) breaking strength in each of the two main anchor points. Designed for DHV certification, and sporting many inuiguing new features , a new version of the widely-used Alpine 700 is also now available. This 700-gram (l.5-lb.) harness is a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts, beach flyers, ground-handling instructors, tandem passengers and travelers. Both harnesses are specifically designed for unresuicted movement while climbing, skiing and launching a paraglider, even with bulky equipment. Both models sell for $350.

A nother popular J"\.item is a tandem stuff bag, which features bombproof construction, a closure system which never slips, and two built-in riser clips to save precious time on launch. For more information contact: Thin Red Line Equipment, Inc., 50639 O'Byrne Rd., Chilliwack, BC, Canada V4Z 1B4, tel. (604) 858-2300, fax (604) 858-3080, http://www.thin-red-line.com, thinredline@uniserve.com.

grandfather - and he composes e-mail! I

85-YEAR-OLD TONY GOMEZ FLIES FROM BALDY

M 10

axim de Jong also continues to design towing products, some of which for-

sports, recendy added a world record holder to its list. Eighty-five year-old Tony Gomez became the oldest paraglider pilot ever to fly solo from the top of Mt. Baldy at the Sun Valley Ski Resort. (By the time you read this he will be 86!) Afrer a flawless launch from Easter Bowl, Tony flew his bright-yellow Edel Adas paraglider to a perfect landing in town, 3,000 feet below. Tony is the oldest paragliding enthusiast in the world, and is working toward his Para 2 rating. Earlier in the day, Tony and his instructor, David Frank of Sun Valley Paragliding, soared above Baldy for more than an hour, reaching altitudes of over 12,000 feet. It was their fifrh tandem training flight, and Tony drove for much of it, also landing the two-place glider. Afrer another afrernoon session of practice launches in the park, the two went to the top of Baldy, where Tony then made his fantastic flight. Friends Jordan Davis and Petrea Mara kindly facilitated the adventure by dropping everything in order to drive them up the mountain. "It's good to be alive!" is the mantra growled most frequendy by Mr. Gomez, who also enjoys riding his horse in d1e backcountry, bi-annual trips abroad, and skiing Baldy (as he has for more than 50 years!) . "Captain Antonio Gomez is an inspiration," states David Frank. "He is a true adventurer. He was born in Spain, was a bush pilot in Alaska, an airline pilot for 30 years, a world traveler, yacht lover, sportsman, vineyard proprietor, husband, father,

Vetchum, Idaho, home of world-class £\...athletes of myriad summer and winter

don't know of too many people half his age with his energy and Joie de vivre. He's shown me that one can accomplish much by having courage, first to dream with an open mind, then by proceeding with confidence and hard work. le was so exciting to see the old codger floating out there by himself, carving turns in the sky above town - definitely the coolest thing I've ever seen in the sport of paragliding. Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Tony Gomez - the boys of a season to remember." For more information contact: Sun Valley Paragliding, P.O. Box 5715, 301 Bell Drive, Ketchum, Idaho 83340 (208) 7263332.

Continued on page 22. PARAGLIDING

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~ Please tell us how you heard of USHGA

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

co1199)

RELEASE, WAIVER AND ASSUMPTION OF

AGREEMENT

In consideration of the benefits to be derived from membership in the USHGA, (Pi/of) and the parent or legal guardian of Pilotif Pilotis a minor, for themselves, their personal representatives, heirs, executors, next of kin, spouses, mmor children and assigns, do agree as follows: A. DEIFINITIONS - 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. "SPORTS INJURIES' means personal injury, bodily injury, death, property damage and/or any other personal or financial injury sustained by Pilotas a result of Pilot's PARTICIPATION IN THE SPORTand/or as a result of the administration of any USHGA programs (for example: the Pilot Proficiency System). If Pilotis under 18 years of age, the term "SPORTS INJURIES"means personal injury, bodily injury, death, property damage and/or any other personal or financial injury sustained by Pilot as well as personal injury, bodily injury, death, property damage and/or any other personal or financial injury sustained by Pi/ot".sparents or legal guardians, as a result of Pilot".s PARTICIPATION IN THE SPORTand/or as a result of the administration of any USHGA programs. 3. "REI.EASED PARTIES' means the following, including their owners, officers, directors, agents, spouses, employees, officials (elected or otherwise), members, independent 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 Pilot-sproficiency 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 Pi/otlaunches, flies and/or lands; e) Each of the property owners on or over whose property Pilotmay 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 Pilot PARTICIPATES IN THE SPORT. "All 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 Pilot's PARTICIPATION IN THE SPORT. B. I FOREVER REIi.EASE AND DISCHARGE the RELEASED PARTIESfrom any and all liabilities, claims, demands, or causes of action that I may hereafter have for 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 WIii.ii. NOT SIUE OR MAKE A CLAIM against any of the RELEASED PARTIESfor loss or damage on account of SPORTS INJURIES. If Iviolate this agreement by filing such a suit or making such a claim, I will pay all attorneys' fees and costs of the RELEASED PARTIES. ID. I AGREE THAT this AGREEMENT shall be governed by and cornstrued 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. f. i REPRESENT THAT Pilotis at least 18 years of age, or, that I am the parent or legal guardian of Pilot and am making this agreement on behalf of myself and Pilot If I am the parent or legal guardian of Pilot, I AGREE TO INIDIEMINHIFY AND REIMBURSE the REI.EASED PARTIES for their defense and indemnity from any claim or liability in the event that Pilot suffers SPORTS INJURIES as a result of Pilot's PAR1/CIPATION IN THE SPORT, even if caused in whole or in part by the negligence (whether active or passive) of any of the RELEASED PARTIES.

G. I VOLUNTARILY ASSUME ALL RISKS, KNOWN AND UNKNOWN, OF SPORTS INJURIES, HOWEVER CAUSED, EVEN If CAUSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY THE ACTION, INACTION, OR NEGLIGENCE OF THIE 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. Adult Pilot's Signature

Signature ofPilot's Parent or Lepl Guardian ifPilot under /8 yms o/3ge.

HMR 12-97

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Tracie Fifer-Welch (H - 99) PO Box 8225 Jackson WY 83001 (307) 733-6823

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USHGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGION 1 Bill Bolosky (R - 00) 24622 SE Mirrormont Dr Issaquah WA 98027 (425) 557-7981 bolosky@microsoft.com Steve Roti lR - 99) 3024 NE 18 Ave Portland OR 97212 (503) 284-0995 paragliding@compuserve.com Paul Klemond (L - 99) (PG Accident Chair) 3612 NE 43rd St Seattle WA 98105 (206) 525-5765 paul@kurious.org Gene Matthews (H - 00) 15308 111 1h Ave NE Bothell WA 98011 (206) 488-1443 skydog@gte.net Bob Hannah (H - 00) 9920 51•1 Ave S Seattle WA 98118 (206) 328-1104 paraskr@aol.com REGION 2 Ray Leonard (R - 00) 3650 Research Way #22 Carson City NV 89706 (775) 883-7070 advspts@pyramid.net Russ Locke (R - 99) 868 S Mary Ave Sunnyvale CA 94087 (408) 737-8745 rsslok@aol.com Scott Gasparian (R- 99) clo LWHS 755 Ocean Ave San Francisco CA 94112 (415) 282-2753 gaspo@igi.org Ed Pitman (H - 00) 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) 7 53-9534 kennyb2u@aol.com

•

REGION 6 Jeff Sinason (R - 99) 12954 Ballantine Ct Saint Louis MO 63146 (314) 542-2473 jsinason@itdcomm.com

REGION 3 Ken Baier (R - 00) 253 Rodney Ave Encinitas CA 92024 (760) 753-2664 airjunkies@worldnet.att.net John Greynald (R - 99) 2774 Puesta Del Sol Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (805) 682-3483 throgrog@aol.com Gregg Lawless (R - 99) 9127 Bittercreek Ln San Diego CA 92129 (619) 484-2056 glawless@sempra-slns.com Rob Kells (H - 00) 500 Blueridge Ave Orange CA 92665 (714) 998-6359 rob@willswing.com Alan Chuculate (H - 99) 6709 Salizar St San Diego CA 92111 (619) 292-1552 g_achucu@qualcomm.com Gil Dodgen (Editor) 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy Ste A-256 Reho Sta Marg CA 92688 (949) 888-7363 gildodgen@aol.com REGION 4 Mark Ferguson (R - 00) 1173 Ridgeview Cir Broomfield CO 80020 (303) 931-8075 mark@ballvarios.com Jim Zeiset (R - 99) 13154 County Rd 140 Salida CO 81201 (719) 539-3335 jimzgreen@aol.com Larry Sanderson (H - 00) Soaring Society of America PO Box 2100 Hobbs NM 88241 (505) 392-1177 Larryssa@aol.com REGION 5 Frank Gillette (R - 99) 903 East 500 South Declo ID 83323 (208) 654-2615 Watercyn@cyberhighway.net

(01/21/99)

REGION 7 Bill Bryden (R - 00) (HG Accident Chair) 6608 North 100 East Rd Seymour IN 47274 (812) 497-2327 hm bbryden@hsonline.net Dan Johnson (L - 99) 8 Dorset St St Paul MN 55118 (651) 450-0930 CumulusMan@aol.com REGION 8 Douglas Sharpe (R - 00) 401 Silver Hill Rd Concord MA 01742 (978) 318-9714 dsharpe@tiac.net Randy Adams (H - 00) PO Box 369 Claremont NH 03743 (603) 543-1760 randyadams@cyberportal.net REGION 9 Pete Lehmann (R - 99) 5811 Elgin St Pittsburgh PA 15206 (412) 661-3474 LPLehmann@aol.com Geoffrey Mumford (R - 00) APA/PPO 750 First St NE Washington DC 20002 (202) 336-6067 gmumford@apa.org Dennis Pa~en (L - 99) RD 3 Box 548 Spring Mills PA 16875 (814) 422-0589 hm pagenbks@lazerlink.com Chris DuPaul (H-00) PO Box 801 Gloucester Point VA 23062 (804) 325-1051 Krisdupaul@aol .com Art Greenfield (X) 1815 N Ft Meyer Dr Ste 700 Arlington VA 22209 (703) 527-0226 NAA@ids2.idsonline.com REGION 10 G.W. Meadows (R - 00) 1125 Harbor View Dr Kill Devil Hills NC 27948 (252) 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 dave@hanglide.com Greg De Wolf (H - 99) PO Box 1268 Stanardsville VA 22973 (804) 990-9071 DeWolf7@aol.com John Harris (H - 00) PO Box 1839 Nags Head NC 27959 (252) 441-4124 ucanfly@outer-banks.com Steve Kroop (H - 00) 14018 NW 23rd Ave Gainesville FL 32606 (352) 332-8675 usaflytec@aol.com REGION 11 Dave Broyles (R - 99) 211 Ellis Dr Allen TX 75002 (972) 727-3588 broyles@psuedospace.com REGION 12 Paul Voight (R - 00) 5163 Searsville Rd Pine Bush NY 12566 (914) 744-3317 ryanv1 OO@aol.com Jan Johnson (L - 99) PO Box 282 Bullville NY 10951 (914) 747-7845 ryanv1 OO@aol.com Paul Rikert (L - 99) 101 N Broadway # 28-3 White Plains NY 10603 (914) 946-9386 hm Lars Linde (H - 00) 954 W Front St Red Bank NJ 07701 (732) 747-7845 larslinde@compuserve.com REGION 13 (lnt'I) Jan Johnson (L - 99) See Reg 12 Michael Robertson (H - 00) RR 5 865 Con 7 Claremont Ontario Canada L 1Y 1A2 }905) 294-2536 lyhigh@inforamp.net USHGA Executive Director Philip Bachman PO Box 1330 Colo Sprin~s CO 80901 (719) 632- 300 wk (719) 632-6417 fax phbachman@ushga.org ushga@ushga.org EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President-Gregg Lawless Vice Pres.-Chris DuPaul Secretary-Russ Locke Treasurer-Geoff Mumford KEY: (R)-Regional (L)-At Large (HJ-Honorary (X)-Ex Officio

at About andem? by Ken Hudonjorgensen and G. W Meadows o you want to fly tandem? Did you know that it is illegal? That's right. The FAA in FAR Part 103 specifically states that tandem ultralight flights are illegal. Bummer! But wait! Fortunately for you and me both, some people put a lot of work into getting an exemption from the FAA for tandem hang gliding flights and, conveniently, paragliding flights are put under the same category. So we can make tandem paragliding flights. But it's still illegal! What I'm getting at is this. If we don't do all that is asked of us to fulfill the requirements of the tandem exemption - if we miss one part of it - we are once again making an illegal flight and are susceptible to all the ensuing legal repercussions. Some examples of those repercussions include: the removal of personal flying privileges by the FAA or USHGA, even if there was no accident or injury; severe legal repercussions if an injury occurred; potential loss of a flying site for everyone or loss of the tandem exemption for everyone. Wow! That would sure put one in a deep popularity hole! HOW DO WE COMPLY? Exemption 4721 states: 1) Every tandem flight must comply with all sections of Part 103 except the part about not flying tandem. 2) The tandem flight is for instructional purposes, or for recreational purposes between consenting and qualified pilots, and must take place from a USHGAapproved site. 3) Both occupants on the training flights must possess a current USHGA pilot rating and at least one occupant must possess a current tandem rating. 4) Before that flight the student must be told that the flight will be conducted under an exemption granted by the FAA, and that the aircraft does not meet any airworthiness standards set forth by the FAA. 5) Both occupants on a non-instructional tandem flight must be current

USHGA pilots, and one must be Advanced-rated by the USHGA. 6) All pilots conducting tandem flights must be authorized by the USHGA to do so, and shall carry this authorization with them plus a copy of the FAA exemption. The USHGA also has the authority to rescind this rating. 7) All tandem pilots have to be familiar with the provisions of this exemption, and must have their tandem rating and a copy of the exemption in their possession, and must present them to the FAA upon request. The current exemption expires on October 31, 1999. As I have stated, these are the FAA's rules which have given us the authority to administer a system for rating tandem pilots. To ensure that only the most qualified pilots are flying tandem, the USHGA has drafted some rules and guidelines to determine who can fly tandem and to ensure that it is being done in the safest possible manner. HOW TO BECOME A RATED TANDEM PILOT To be a candidate for any tandem rating you must: 1) be a current USHGA Advanced-rated pilot, 2) have a turbulence sign-off, 3) have a minimum of 200 hours of airtime. TANDEM CLASSIFICATIONS There is a three-tier system of ratings as set forth by the USHGA. They are TANDEM 1, TANDEM 2 and TANDEM INSTRUCTOR (T3). The regulations for the ratings vary, and each has progressively more stringent requirements. TANDEM l The Tandem 1 rating allows you to fly with other rated paraglider pilots who have a plastic Beginner rating card or higher in their possession. Since you are flying with another paraglider pilot the requirements are not as demanding as with the other rat-

ings and is considered a student tandem rating. In addition to the requirements already stated, to become a Tandem l pilot you must: 1) Have the ability to do consistently good zero-wind and light crosswind launches with no-step, controlled landings, and possess excellent canopy control skills. 2) Have logged evidence of at least four tandem flights in a variety of conditions with a tandem administrator or tandem instructor. 3) Successfully attend a tandem clinic or tandem training program. 4) Pass a written test administered by a Tandem Instructor. TANDEM2 The Tandem 2 rating allows you to fly with members of the USHGA who have the plastic membership card in their possession. This rating is authorized only by the office of the USHGA, after the pilot submits proof that he has successfully met all the requirements. Tandem 2 pilots cannot offer instruction and cannot accept any remuneration for the flight. In addition to all requirements already stated, to become a Tandem 2 pilot you must: 1) Successfully complete a USHGA instructor certification clinic. 2) Have a minimum of25 logged Tandem 1 flights of at least 500 feet vertical descent. 3) Successfully complete a USHGA Tandem Instructor certification clinic. Completion of this clinic cannot precede the above requirements. 4) Attain the approval of your Regional Director to attend the tandem clinic and attain the rating. NOTE: Being a certified instructor is not required for any Tandem rating. TANDEM INSTRUCTOR The Tandem Instructor rating allows you to charge fees for tandem lessons, and allows you to fly with passengers who possess the USHGA temporary rating card. Note: ALL tandem passengers MUST be members of USHGA. To become a Tandem Instructor you must fulfill all the requirements for the Tandem 2 rating and be recommended for this rating by your Regional Director and a PARAGLIDING

2) Possession ofFAA's Part 103, FAR GRANT OF EXEMPTION #4271, is mandatory while flying tandem.

Tandem Administrator. Flying tandem with the general public is an immense responsibility. Responsible attitudes and actions are by far the most important skills (yes, I mean skills) to have and to continue to cultivate in ourselves. With a Tandem 3 rating we are authorized to perform this otherwise illegal form of aviation under very specific rules. A responsible pilot (which should mean ALL Tandem pilots) will dot all "i" s and cross all "t'' s.

There are also equipment requirements: 1) You must possess at least one backup chute (appropriate for the maximum weight being flown tandem) on all flights. 2) Appropriate helmets are required for both occupants. 3) A glider rated for the weight being flown and for tandem is required. 4) Although choice of other equipment is up to the individual pilot in command, it is recommended that both participants have ankle-support footwear, back-support harnesses, gloves, appropriate clothing and

In addition to the above rating requirements: I) Tandem ratings are valid for three years and can be renewed by taking and passing a check flight exam with a Tandem Administrator.

• •

•• .. ..

SUMMARY We had more tandem accidents and injuries in 1998 than in all other years of tandem flying combined. We can reverse that trend. Minimize the risk by stacking things in your favor: take one, two, or three steps back from the conditions you would fly in solo; meet or exceed all the FAA and USHGA requirements for flying tandem; and fly with each person as if they were the most precious and delicate cargo on the planet. Be willing and even eager to say no to a particular tandem flight if one consideration is out of place. If we do all of this well and have a low or zero accident rate, maybe someday tandems won't be illegal. •

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

OPERATING RESTRICTIONS AND LIMITATIONS

any other equipment which is prudent for the individual participants.

.. .. ..

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MARCH/APRIL

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This "one size Ills all" radio harness instantly adjusts to hold ony 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 Thermal Tracker Aero·Sports P.O. Box 292 Wolf Creek. OR 97497

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BEGINNER RATINGS Region 1 BUKER, KATHERINE: Seattle, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG HENIUS, KEN: Medford, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG HILL, ROGER: Portland, OR; S. Rori/Mr. Bachelor PG JOHN, JERRY: Medford, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG JOHNSON, CHARLES: Gold Hill, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG LEET, KENDAN: Cave Junction, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG LOGAN, BRUCE: Central Point, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG VAN DER HEIDE, GEORGE: Girdwood, AK; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 2 KLEIN, DAVID: Palo Alto, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell KNIVETON, BURKET: Sacramento, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School LEVINE, BARRY: Oakland, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell WASHICK, TIMOTHY: S Lake Tahoe, CA; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports Region 3 BELLINI, CHRIS: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport DOYLE, MIKE: Honolulu, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG FAORO, RON: Santa Barbara, CA; R. Sporrer/Sky Sports KLOKKE, ALEX: Palos Verdes, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport RUPPRECHT, PHIL: Cerritos, CA; J. Williams/Air America PG Region4 CORNABY, DAYID: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HATTON, ANNE MARIE: Flagstaff, AZ; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG KOEHLER, ERIC: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride OELERICH, PAUL: Park City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ROBERTS, TONI: Aspen, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 5 RUZICKA, DON: Jackson, WY; T. Bartlett/Peak PG Region 7 BARREIRO, ROBERTO: Johnston, IA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport MACHA], ROBERT: Burbank, IL; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SMITH, GENE: Omak, WI; M. Eberle/North American PG Region 9 MARTIN, PHILLIP: Lakeview, OH; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport MARTIN, ROYCE: Lakeview, OH; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport 0 DEA, D.C., CHARLES: Suffolk, VA; F. DeSantis/U Can Fly 2 Region 11 SLACK, CHRIS: Houston, TX; C. Mullack/Tiger Mtn PG Region 13 HUXLEY, CHRIS: Canada; M. Jong/Mescalito LIM, NOEL: Phillipines; R. Schmaltz/Over the Hill PG

NOVICE RATINGS Region 1 ETTER, R DOUGLAS: Portland, OR; R. Schmaltz/Over the Hill FORD, JOHN: Bellevue, WA; L.D. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School

HENIUS, KEN: Medford, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG JOHN, JERRY: Medford, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG JOHNSON, CHARLES: Gold Hill, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG LANZ, GREG: West Linn, OR; L. Pindar/Over the Hill LEET, KENDAN: Cave Junction, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG LOGAN, BRUCE: Central Point, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG VAN DER HEIDE, GEORGE: Girdwood, AK; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 2 BETTING, MARC: Alameda, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG KLEIN, DAVID: Palo Alto, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell LEVINE, BARRY: Oakland, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell NEWELL, GARY: Garnerville, NV; R. Leonard/ Adventure Sporrs WASHICK, TIMOTHY: S Lake Tahoe, CA; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports Region 3 DOYLE, MIKE: Honolulu, HI; I'. Michelmore/Paradise PG FAORO, RON: Santa Barbara, CA; R. Sporrer/Sky Sports OZEKI, KENJI: Arcadia, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport Region4 BROWN, WESLEY: Salt Lalce City, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly CORNABY, DAVID: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HATTON, ANNE MARIE: Flagstaff, AZ; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG KOEHLER, ERIC: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride OELERICH, PAUL: Park City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ROBERTS, TONI: Aspen, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG THOMAS, JIM: Crested Butte, CO; R. Kocurek/Crested Butte PG Region 5 BURKE, SOLOMON: Kooskia, ID; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii KAHYAOGLU, CENAP: Ketchum, ID; G. Callaghan/Sun Valley PG RUZICKA, DON: Jackson, WY; T. Bartlett/Peak PG Region 6 DUVALL, JEFFREY: California, MO; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 7 GRAS, LYNN: Zeeland, MI; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport MACHA], ROBERT: Burbank, IL; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 11 SLACK, CHRIS: Houston, TX; C. Mullack/Tiger Men PG Region 13 HUXLEY, CHRIS: Canada; M. Jong/Mescalito

INTERMEDIATE RATINGS Region 1 CHRISAPE, JEFFREY: Seattle, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG LANKTON, DAVID: Portland, OR; J. Saltveit/NWF LP ROSS, WILLIAM: Anchorage, AK; S. Roti/Mt. Bachelor PG SCHLAPFER, JAKE: Anchorage, AK; R. French/Golden Eagle PG Region 2 DEETKEN, BRUCE: Reno, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports

PARAGLIDING

MORFORD, GEORGE: Walnut Creek, CA;]. Lucas/Glidell REGER, AVNER: Sunnyvale, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell REITER, ROBERT: Berkeley, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School VANDENBROUCKE, PASCALE: Sunnyvale, CA;J. Lucas/Glidell Region 3 BOYER, TONY: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport DAINSBERG, ANDREW: Oxnard, CA; S. McGarva/Sky N 'Out PG DELL, ALEX: Lake Forest, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderporr PARROW, NEAL: Santa Barbara, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports RAO, NAVEEN: La Jolla, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport WINDLE, MICHAEL: El Cajon, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderporr WOODSIDE, FERNANDO: Los Angeles, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport Region 5 BURKE, SOLOMON: Kooskia, ID; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii MC MAHON, SHANE: Missoula, MT; L.D. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School

TANDEM INSTRUCTOR RATINGS Region 1 DE RUSSY, KENNETH: Anacortes, WA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG Region 2 LAOS, JUAN: Lafayette, CA; B. Hannah/PG Washington Region 3 FORD, BRIAN: Carlsbad, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG JEBB, GABRIEL: San Diego, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG MICHELMORE, PETE: Kaneohe, HI; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG Region 13 EMMANUEL, DEPALLENS: Switzerland; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly

Region 8 GODDARD, MATTHEW: Hinsdale, MA; S. McGarva/Sky N' Ollt PG Region 12 DAVIES, MARK: New York, NY; P. Renaudin/GMI PG KRUEGER, LARRY: Flemington, NJ; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SOLOMON, FREDERICH: New York, NY; P. Renaudin/GMI PG Region 13 HUXLEY, CHRIS: Canada; M. Jong/Mescalito

ADVANCED RATINGS Region 1 LANKTON, DAVID: Pordand, OR; J. Saltveit/N W FL P SWAN, RYAN: Skykomish, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG Region 2 ILAKOVAC, TIN: Mountain View, CA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz Region 3 CHANTLER, GLENN: Goleta, CA; S. McGatva/Sky'N Out PG GOLIAN, HADI: Woodland Hills, CA; T. Nelson/Thermal Dynamics Region4 HORTON, SCOTT: Tucson, AZ; C. Bastian/Fly Above All PETERS, CHRIS: Aurora, CO; M. Smith SELF, LAYNE: Arvada, CO; M. Smith

TANDEM ONE RATINGS Region 1 PINDAR, LARRY: Gresham, OR; K. Kellar Region 2 MUNN, KENNETH: Zephyr Cove, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports Region4 HORTON, SCOTT: Tucson, AZ; C. Bastian/Fly Above All

MARCH/ APRIL

1999

1999 TOP 10 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN BEGINNER (PARA 1) RATINGS ISSUED

RANK SCHOOL .......................................... BEGINNER 1 Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ..................................... 16 2 Southern Skies Paragliding ...................................... 14 3 Cloud 9 Paragliding ................................................ 10 4 Paraglide Washington ................................................ 6 4 Thermal Tracker ....................................................... 6 4 Torrey Pines Gliderport ............................................ 6 5 Airtime of San Francisco ........................................... 5 6 Adventure Sports ...................................................... 4 6 Eastcoast Paragliding ................................ _................. 4

1999 TOP 10 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN NOVICE (PARA 2) RATINGS ISSUED

RANK SCHOOL ............................................... NOVICE 1 Southern Skies Paragliding ...................................... 18 2 Cloud 9 Paragliding ................................................ 10 3 Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ....................................... 9 4 Thermal Tracker Paragliding ..................................... ? 5 Chirico's Fright School... ........................................... 6 5 Parasoft Paragliding ................................................... 6 6 Adventure Sports ...................................................... 4 6 Eastcoast Paragliding ................................................. 4 6 The Soaring Center ................................................... 4 6 Torrey Pines Gliderport ............................................ 4 6 Westcoast Paragliding/Airtime of SF ......................... 4 Rankings were compiled from ratings published in the January/February and March/April 1999 issues of Paragliding magazine.

USHGA MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM

PUBLICATIONS

PRICE

~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 PARAGLIDING MAGAZINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7oz 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 SKY ADVENTURES 36 hg stories by 32 hg authors. Informative & entertaining. 240 pgs .... 11b 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 ICP'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 CERTIFICATION BOOKLETS Document your skill level sign-offs. Specify PG or HG. . . . . 2oz

QTY Total Weight TOTAL

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

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$32.00 $19.95 $35.95 $29.00 $35.95 $34.95 $33.00

$ $ $ $ $ $ $

VIDEOS ~GREEN POINT FLYERS HG, PG, Powered PG, towing, animation, all in Michigan. (50min) 11b MASTERS AT CLOUDBAS8 A paragliding music video, set to hard hitting music. (20 min) . 1lb 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 FLYIN' HG & PG in Paradise. Amazing launches & awesome scenery! (46 min). 11b All our videos are in USA/VHS NTSC format only.

MISC. USHGA PHONE CARD 25¢ per minute long distance rate, specify hg or pg card, includes 30 min. $10.00 -1ll.s!._ $. _ __ $. _ __ WINDSOK™ 1.5 oz. ripstop nylon, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Pink/yellow or pink/white (circle one). 21b $39.95 WINDSEEKER Hang glider flying model. It loops & soars. Lots of fun to fly, you'll want two .. 15oz $ 3.00 $. _ __ $._ __ USHGA EMBLEM DECAL Our original logo, in its original colors, on a 3" circular sticker. . .. 1oz $ .50 $. _ __ USHGA SEW-ON EMBLEM Our original logo, in its original colors, on a 3" circular patch. . .1oz $ 1.50 $. _ __ LICENSE PLATE FRAME Chrome plated. I'd Rather Be Paragliding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1lb $ 6.50 PAYMENT must be included with your order. SUBTOTAL WEIGHT (for shipping) _ _ NON-USA orders must be in U.S. FUNDS drawn on a U.S. BANK!

SHIPPING (USA) Under 16oz ADD $1.50 1 LB ........... ADD $4.00 2 LB ........... ADD $4.75 3-4 LB .. .. ... ADD $5.50 5-6 LB .. .. ... ADD $6.00

CHARGE MY VISA or MASTERCARD Acct# expires

7-8 LB ....... ADD $6.50 signature 9-10LB ..... ADD $7.50 Over 10 LB .. Call/fax/email NON-USA SHIPPING-Ca/llfaxlemail

SUBTOTAL

$ _ _ __

Colorado residents add 3% tax $._ _ _ __ Shipping (see chart) $_ _ _ __

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

BE SURE TO CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR AWESOME USHGA APPAREL!

D0N 1T BUY ANYTHING!

THE MOUNTAIN

/\.. ttend free informative seminars from in J-\dustry experts. You will have the opportunity to try out new state of. the art products, paragliders, paramotors, harnesses, varies/ flight computers, flight suits, tandem gliders,

oxygen systems, helmets and other flying equipment from manufacturers and distributors. We intend to have every make and size glider available in the USA here for you to fly. Fly as many different gliders as you can handle for five days.

This is a non-profit event, t here will be a $60.00 pre-registration fee for non members before May 1st ($70.00 at the door]. $35.00 goes to t he Ut ah Hang Gliding Association t o help "Save t he Point" and pay for your Utah HGA membership . PLEASE REGISTER EARLY.

Call, write or E-mail for more information

1 2665 South Minuteman Or., #1 , Draper, Utah 84020 Phone (801) 576-6460 FAX (801) 576-6482 www.soaringcenter.com

Projected

Area Span A/R

m2 m

small

med

large

22.3 10 4.44

24.2 10.4 4.44

26.2 10.8 4.44

Canopy material

Toray nylon66,44g/m 2

Lines

Technora-aramide

Pilot Weight Flight Speed (approx .)·

Trim Max

Sink Rate (approx)•

50-70

60-80 75- 100

km/h km/h

35-38 47-51

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

m/s

1.05

med

large

23.83 10.81 4.90

25.77 11.24 4.90

73-88

km/h km/h

40 60

Area

Span A/R

Trim Max

m/s

1.05

DHV/ACPUL

·speeds to be confirmed

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 60- 80 20 47 1.1

26.35 10.32 4.04 70-90 20 47

28.41 10.71 4.04 20 47 1.1

40 60

Pilot Weight Flight Speed

Area

Span A/R Root Tip

min max

m m kg km/h km/h

small

med

large

23.43 9.49 3.85 2.9 0.58 50-65 21

25.43 9.89 3.95 3.02 0.61 60-80 21

27.51 10.29 3.85 3.14 o,63 75-95 21

29.66 10.68 3.85 3.26 0.66 21

Projected

Chord

Area Span A/R Root Tip

Total Height

Pilot Weight Flight Speed (approx.) ·

Min Max

m2 m m m m

39.45 12.28 3.82 3.686 0.593 9.0

110- 180

km/h km/h

20 40

www.edelusa.com

......... EDEL AMERICAS Edel Sky Sports Bill Anderson 19820 Hirsch Court #3 Anderson, CA 96007 530.378.0233 edelusa@m icron.net USHGA regions 1,2,4,5,7

•

Southwest Service Center Mitch McAleer 29120 Melby Drive Lake Elsinore, Ca 92523 909.674.8844 mmcaleer@ez2.net USHGA regions 3.4.6

••

2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive San Diego, CA 92037 619.452.9858 www.flytorrey.com USHGA regions 3,8,9,10,11,12

• ••

Continued ftom page 10.

NEW VIDEO - STARTING PARAGLIDING tarting Paragliding is the latest video release from Paul Hamilton of Adventure Productions. Originally released last summer as Starting Paragliding, Rough Cuts, it has been updated with new footage and re-cut so paragliding schools can include it in their training. Produced especially to promote the sport of paragliding, it is designed to inspire people who are chinking about taking up paragliding or anyone who wants to see what paragliding is all about.

Starting Paragliding shows stu-

dents during their first lessons and covers basic preparation, weather conditions, proper attitude, ground handling, launching, and making chose first flights. During simulator instruction students learn turning, pitching, the feeling of the glider, principles for managing the wing in rough air, and advanced techniques (parachute deployment and maneuvers). Tandem instruction helps to reinforce proper technique. Starting Paraglidingwas designed to be a training tool to aid students in learning more quickly and easily by answering basic questions. Observe class discussions of topics required to pass the USHGA tests for ratings. Included are important ground-handling safety tips, described by the instructor as he demonstrates the techniques on the hill. There is a musicaccompanied sequence in which kiting the glider is promoted as a sport in itsel£ The video also fearures in-flight footage with the camera mounted on the instructor, expert pilots demonstrating advanced techniques, and a spectacular in-air tandem flight. Filming was done at Airplay, operated by Dixon White. Producer Paul Hamilton comments, "Dixon was a natural to work with. His experience with hundreds of students and his expertise as a Master pilot allowed me to put a mike on him and just lee him go." A special dealer version is available. Dealer contact information may be added to the video cover to promote business and attract new students. Starting Paragliding is available from

KIM TRINKL MEMORIAL Paraglider pilot Kim Trinkl who was greatly respected and admired in the Pacific Northwest paragliding community, recently died while telemark skiing at Crystal Mountain. Kim was a talented, selfless artist. The illustration below was drawn by him for Aloft magazine and was forwarded to us by Paragliding contributing editor Steve Roti. Kim's relatives andfiends would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank members ofthe Crystal Mountain Probe Patrol: Ron Knowles, Adam Wtzmer, Doug Blanchard and Jay Bright. Anyone interested in making a contribution in Kim's name can do so to the Crystal Mountain Pro-Fund. For information call (360) 663-3067 The following tribute was sent by Seattle-area pilot Lowell Skoog. Thanks also to John Heckendom for his contributions. - Ed. im died while skiing in the Crystal Mountain back-country after a series of heavy storms dropped many feet of new snow. Most reports indicate chat he was skiing alone, fell in some woods and suffocated. The area where he was found (known as Gun Tower) is quite steep in places and it seems plausible that he may have been caught in a small avalanche. I had heard about the accident but didn't know the skier's name. What an awful coincidence that it would turn out to be Kim. I met Kim last summer while hiking up Tiger Mountain. I was familiar with his artistic skills from my stint as NWPC newsletter editor in 1994. He submitted a beautiful drawing that perfectly complemented an article in the September issue. Perhaps it was the newsletter connection, or maybe it was his nature, but Kim was quite open with me, almost a stranger, as we huffed our way up the trail. He described how he had consciously chosen to keep his life simple in order to devote as much time as possible to the activities he loved, mainly flying and skiing. He was torn between his love of art and a practical desire to make enough money to enjoy the outdoors without spending too much time working. His art and his openness revealed a sensitivity chat I wish I'd gotten to know better. They say still waters run deep. We really have lost a wonderful flying spirit.

Adventure Productions, 6553 Stone Valley Dr., Reno, NV 89523 (775) 747-0175 (ph/fax), or from www.adventurep.com. It can also be purchased from Airplay Paragliding at www.paraglide.com or by calling (520) 526-4579. The video sells for $29.95 retail plus $4.00 shipping. Special dealer prices are available.

PLEXICOVER AND NEOCOVER FROM BRAU NIGER

rauniger now offers two new products to protect your flight instruments from scratches

and other damage. The PlexiCover protects LCD displays and is made of clear, tough, scratch-resistant plastic. It is molded to the shape of the instrument for a perfect fit and all buttons and connectors are easily accessible. The NeoCover protects the body of the instrument. It is made of high-quality neoprene which offers impact protection. The cover is black on one side and purple on the ocher, and can be turned inside out. All connectors and fittings remain accessible with the NeoCover. Contact: Aerolight USA, (305)

PARAGLIDING

• 639-3330, fax (305) 639-3055, paragliding@aerolight.com, www.aerolight.com.

JACKSON HOLE OFFERS TANDEM PARAGLIDING

NAS RELEASES THE PRELUDE

orth American Sports, Inc. is proud to announce the Prelude for 1999. The new glider from Trekking is ACPUL certified wirh both Standard and Performance ratings, in keeping wirh the direction certification is taking for beginner paragliders. The dual-rated glider, although more expensive to manufacture, virtually eliminates the need for a beginner pilot to purchase a new performance glider shortly after buying a beginner wing. Successor to the well-established Ritmo, the Prelude comes standard wirh a mylar leading edge and two-year warranry. In special consideration of USH GArated pilots who read this magazine, NAS is providing a limited number of units at a 40% discount off the retail price on rhe XL size. Call (303) 347-8995 for derails. ll.Dll.L NI.W~

1999

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

hang gliders paragliders

ing

U.S. PARAGLIDING WORLD TEAM NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT!

he U.S . Paragliding World Team represents our country at rhe World Championships which take 'place every two years. The Team is comprised of rhe top-ranked pilots based on results of rhe previous two years of competition. The Team, with a little help from the USHGA, and a lot of help from the membership rhrough various fund-raising efforts, will travel to Austria chis year to pit their skills against the rest of the world's best pilots. Tn

del announces three new distribution centers (Edel Americas) in California. They also announce that they have moved rheir main service center from Sun Valley, ID to a larger, better faciliry in Northern California, where rhey offer repairs, modifications and customer servICe. They have also updated their Web site at www.edelusa.com. The Edel design team has been hard at work on two new gliders, the tandem Prime and the intermediate Promise, and production has begun. They now offer Edel versions of the Woody Valley harness, rhe Balance Standard (front-mounted reserve student harness) and the Balance Deluxe (rearmounted) .

MARCH/ APRIL

andem paragliding is now available at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming with Two-Can Fly Paragliding. After five years of negotiations with rhe Jackson Hole Ski Corp., Ken Hudonjorgensen has secured a contract to offer tandem paragliding from rhe ski resort which has the highest continuous vertical rise in the country. Grand Teton National Park, the Snake River, and miles of Forest Service land provide spectacular views during the 4,000-foot glide from rhe top of Rendezvous Mountain. Contact: Christine Warren, Two-Can Fly Paragliding, P.O. Box 324, Wilson, WY 83014 (307) 739-2626, awalk@jhinet.com.

f'\rrlPr Tn rlPf'Pr cnmP nf r-hP PvpPncP

of participating in the World Championships, this year's U.S. Paragliding Team has the following fundraising efforts in the works: May 22, Chelan, WA, parry/slide show/raffle ($10 admission) . May 21-24, Beginner Thermal through Advanced CrossCountry Courses ($40 per day). Improve your rhermal and cross-country flying with lessons from the U.S. Paragliding Team. In addition, Paragliding Team T-shirts are available for $25 and stickers for $5. If you are interested in helping the Team here are some areas in which we could use rhar help: raffle prizes (anyrhing from gift certificates for oil changes to six packs of Pabst Blue Ribbon); parry help

... 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.com • www.fun2fly.com PH: 509.925.5565 Fax: 509.962.4827

1.800. 727 .2354

Ill

(we need everything from a facility to tables, an AV system, chairs, food, drink); T-shirt sales. All tax-deductible contributions should be made to the USHGA Foundation, Attn: U.S. Paragliding Team, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 809011330. If you intend to donate a prize to the raffie, e-mail chris@firebirdusa.com and plan to send the prize to Chelan. Your contribution will be listed on all of the magazine and Web page advertisements for the USPT fund-raising efforts. The U.S. Paragliding Team needs a sponsor. If you or someone you know would like to review their sponsorship proposal, contact chris@firebirdusa.com. Stay tuned to www.kurious.org/usteam99 for updates. Thanks in advance for your support!

RED BULL WINGS OVER ASPEN SEPTEMBER 2-8 - ASPEN, COLORADO D ed Bull Energy Drink is proud to J.'-.present the second "Red Bull Wings Over Aspen." The 1999 event will feature the same format as the highly successful 1998 event. Red Bull Wings Over Aspen will host the U.S. National Paragliding Championships as well as a hang gliding aerobatics competition. The paragliding competition will include an Open Class and a DHV 2-3/Afnor Performance Class. The total prize money purse is $25,000, with winnings awarded down to 10th place in both hang gliding and paragliding. Complimenting the great flying will be nightly parties, live music, and big fun.

Register early to ensure a position! For more information and registration contact: Red Bull Wings Over Aspen, P.O. Box 10835, Aspen, CO 81612 (970) 618-3038, fax (970) 544-6522, redbullwoa@aspen.com, Aspen.com/ redbullwoa.

SOL NEWS ol Paragliders is pleased to announce the availability of two new gliders. The Impulse is a basic intermediate wing which has received an AFNOR/CEN Standard rating in all three sizes. The new high-performance Vello has received a Performance rating in two sizes. Sol will continue to offer the Unno and the Axion which are under license from Nova, but the company is moving away from its relationship with Nova to produce original designs with a French development team. The new Impulse features fewer lines for more speed and performance, diagonal tabs, Trilam Giter reinforcement (a new material), as well as new colors. Absolute Sky Outfitters, the U.S. importer for Sol, also has in stock new Charly harnesses, reserve parachutes, Magic helmets and many other accessories. Paragliding and hang gliding dealer inquiries are welcome. Contact: Steve Mayer, Absolute Sky Outfitters, 9630 S. Mumford Dr., Sandy, UT 84094 (801) 553-1834, fax (801) 523-1854, info@paragliders.com, www.paragliders.com.

SAURATOWN MOUNTAIN IMPROVEMENTS

he Sauratown Mountain Hang Gliding Club (SMHGC) in central

£sfPOOO~@ (s[L@~~O~@ Brand New A6-26 purple (DHV2) only $2499 F L Brand New A6-26 orange (DHV2) only $2499

Gliders unless noted are DHV 1-2 or 2399 AFNOR Standard.

!H Perfect Demo A5s-30 purple only 11399 Perfect Demo A5s-26 purple only 1399 T Perfect Demo S2vt-26 purple only 0 Brand New 1-26 blue only 11999 E Brand New Sl -26 orange only 1999

s Demo S2vt-30

orange

only

!N Demo S2vt-23 yellow only Demo Sl-26 yellow only 24

..............~

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North Carolina is pleased to announce that they now have an excellent paragliding launch area on their primary flying site, Sauratown Mountain, located 20 miles north of Winston Salem, NC. This site faces south-southeast and is 1,250' AGL. The main cliff launch has two excellent side-by-side ramps for hang gliders, and the paragliding launch can be used by the more faint of heart. This site has excellent X-C potential with outlanding areas almost everywhere and "glass-offs" that are as sweet as honey. The club landing area is an improved 15 acres with a 2/ 1 glide angle from launch, and is big enough to be relatively free of rotors. You are invited to learn more about the club by visiting their Web site at http://www.geocities.com/Pipeline/Drop zone/5650/index.html. Visiting hang gliding pilots should call club president Doug Rice at (336) 994-4377. Paraglider pilots may call Ben Thomas at (336) 723-0824.

REGIONAL DIRECTOR ELECTION RESULTS

he results of the 1999 Regional Director Elections are in. We'd like to congratulate the following who were elected to serve on the USHGA Board of Directors. REGION 1: Bill Bolosky REGION 2: Ray Leonard REGION 3: Ken Baier REGION 4: Mark Ferguson REGION 7: Bill Bryden REGION 8: Doug Sharpe REGION 9: Geoff Mumford REGION 10: GW Meadows REGION 12: Paul Voight Please see the Board of Directors page in this magazine for a complete listing of all Regional, At-Large and Honorary Directors.

AIREA NEWS

A iREA USA is moving to the Western .i\slope. Still in Colorado, but on the right side of the Rockies, the company is entering the second phase of its business plan, which is to develop paragliding in a PARAGLIDING

relatively untapped area where the people and flying conditions are great. Whitewater is a few miles south of Grand Junction, CO, about four hours east of Salt Lake City, UT and within two or three hours of great places like Aspen, Telluride, Dinosaur and Crested Butte. In addition, there are many local sites that provide outstanding soaring and X-C potential year round. Located on 21 acres adjoining huge chunks of public land and many mesas, AiREA's backyard is a natural pilot's playground. A new building is under construction to host over 900 sq. ft. of dedicated business space for a full-service repair shop, test center and warehouse. For more information contact: AiREA USA, 2401 Whitewater Creek Rd., Whitewater, CO 81527, tel/fax (970) 256-7633, airea@gj.net, http:/ /www.airea.de.

FIRST NORTH AMERICA IPARAGUDING LEAGUE

anadian Paragliding, Ltd. is organizing the first paragliding league in North America. The proposed schedule includes the following weekends: April 3-5, Bath, New York; May 22-24, Teviotdale, Ontario; June 5-7; July 3-5; July 31; Aug 1-2; Sept. 4-6; Oct. 9-11. Locations will include flying sites in the Great Lakes region, Ontario, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. Entry fees will be $10 (Canadian) per day with scoring involving cumulative points from the best 10 days. Various prizes will be awarded at the end of the year (up to $2,000). Additional sponsors are solicited and they are looking for clubs or pilots in the states listed above to organize any of the meets. For more info contact: http://www3.sympatico.ca/canadianparagliding, Canadian Paragliding, Ltd., Stan and Lenka Drdla, canadian-paragliding@sympatico.ca, (905) 777-1824, fax (905) 777-0222.

FLY PRODUCTS NEWS

ew colors are now available from Fly Products for the new Power Jet with

MARCH/APRIL

1999

a Vittorazi engine. The company has also enlarged and improved its Web site where you can find photos and videos of all their latest products. Check out www.flyproducts.com or contact Aerolight USA, (305) 639-3330, fax (305) 639-3055.

MOUNTAIN WINGS AND EASTCOAST PARAGLIDING NEWS

ountain Wings Hang Gliding and Eastcoast Paragliding are now doing business in Ellenville, NY as Ellenville Air Sports. The office and shop are still at 150 Canal St. along with the flight park on Hang Glider Rd. They also operate at the Ellenville airport at the base of the mountain only one mile from the shop. They offer ultralight sales and instruction with a certified BFI and a two-seat Flight Star. Aerotowing, winch towing of both hang gliders and paragliders, tandems, and the Mosquito powered harness are offered. Camping, fishing, glider storage, rentals, bathrooms, and towing clinics are all available. Contact: Greg Black (914) 647-3377, mtnwings@aol.com.

ROGAllO FOUNDATION HAll OF FAME FOR LOW~ SPEED FUGHT

his award is in recognition of outstanding contributions by individuals and/ or organizations who deserve recognition for what they are presently doing or have done in the past for the betterment, safety, progress, recognition, promotion, growth and development of low-speed flight. The award was established in 1997.

RULES AND REGULATIONS 1. The individual and/or organization's contributions must be an apparent service to the development and/or promotion of low-speed personal flight. 2. This service must transcend the individual's and/or organization's financial gain. 3. An unsuccessful candidate one year may be re-nominated for the Award the

following year, or for any number of subsequent years. 4. If, in the opinion of the Awards Committee, there is no qualified candidate for the Award during any one year, it is understood the Award is not to be made during that year. 5. The Awards Committee, in official session, may nominate, with majority vote of the Committee, a candidate for the Rogallo Foundation Hall of Fame. 6. The Award will be made annually at the Hang Gliding Spectacular. 7. No former winner of the Award may receive the Award a second time. 8. In the case of an organization or business receiving the Award, the principal officer of such organization, or business, shall be designated as the recipient. 9. In the case of an organization or business being considered for this Award, their contribution must have materially benefited low-speed flight internationally. 10. Rogallo nominations may be made from January 1 through April 15. 11. The Awards Committee will select the Recipient of the Award at a meeting called for that purpose. 12. When possible, the Rogallo Foundation Executive Committee and/or Board of Directors shall approve the selection of the winner for the Award. 13. The type of Award shall be decided by the Awards Committee. 14. The work of the Awards Cammi ttee shall be of a confidential nature only to itself, the Executive Committee, and the Board of Directors of the Rogallo Foundation. 15. A photo of the recipient with a review of the recipient's contributions will hang in the Rogallo museum. Please send nominations to: The Rogallo Foundation, Awards Committee, P.O. Box 1839, Nags Head, NC 27959. Include the name and address (city, state, zip) of the nominee, and the nominator's name and phone number. Include a written explanation of the reason for nomination. DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS IS APRIL 15, 1999.

Turkish Delight by Kim Galvin Three years ago I had never seen a paraglider. I knew what hang gliders were -

dangerous toys for macho thrill-seekers. My idea of a per-

fect vacation was exploring southern Europe or the Greek islands, seeking out warm weather, sandy beaches, good food and a little history. n September of 1995, on the recommendation of friends who had visited Turkey, my husband Mike and I decided to give it a try. After a week of exploring Istanbul and the area around Ephesus, we settled into Oli.ideniz (Dead Sea), a seaside town on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Tourists come here for the exquisite beaches and other natural wonders, fascinating antiquities and historical sites, temperate climate and superb cuisme. As we were relaxing on the beach we couldn't help but notice the colorful objects descending through the air from the mountain range above us. As they came closer we saw pilots hanging from

their canopies, doing graceful wingovers and daring spiral dives, 6,500' down to the beach. Of course, we had to find out what these people were doing. We spoke with some of the pilots on the beach and began a learning experience that continues to this day. On the last day of our vacation, which was also our wedding anniversary, Mike and I decided to treat each other to tandem flights. We made arrangements with Sky Sports, one of three tandem companies operating at the time. After surviving the harrowing drive to the top ofBabadag (Father Mountain) , we knew we would not back out. There was no way we were going to take that

truck ride back down the steep mountain road. Our flights were awesome. The view from above was captivating. After landing on the beach, our knees weak and the adrenaline pumping, we went to the "Buzz Bar" for a beer. By the time we finished our drinks, we made a decision. We would begin taking paragliding lessons as soon as we returned to the Bay Area. We have been flying regularly ever since. We knew that we would have to return to "the scene of the crime" and, in September of 1998 our dreams became reality. This time, most of our two-week trip revolved around going up Babadag and soaring over Oli.ideniz. Babadag is truly a Mecca for paraglider pilots. There are now eight companies offering tandem flights from the mountain. On a good day, 200 tourists are treated to a taste of the paragliding experience (approximately 7,000 each year). In addition, over the course of the season, which lasts from May through October, 1,000 solo pilots from all over the world come to experience the magic of this mountain. But don't worry, there is plenty of air to go around! Babadag is a first-class site for pilots of all skill levels. The summit is at 6,500 feet and there are launches in all directions. The tandem companies each send trucks up the mountain four times a day. You can literally fly anytime you want, from sunrise to sunset. The drive up takes about an hour. The road has been improved considerably over the past three years, and there are now toilets at the launches, thanks to the Ministry of Forestry. But there is a price to pay for progress. The forestry officials charge about $7.40 (this varies from season to season) per person per trip, which really adds up if you're an air junkie. (For information on how you can protest this fee, see www.paragliding.net/skysports.) In addition, the tandem companies charge about $5.55 for a ride up to launch, which is a small price to pay for the convenience. The drivers stick around to make sure everyone gets off okay before leaving the launch. And there is always an ambulance with paramedics on the mountain during flying hours. The launches are large and well graded, but rocky, and will accommodate dozens of wings at once. During our stay, conditions on the mountain were never

PARAGLIDING

the same, although we had clear sunny skies almost every day. Sometimes there was no wind at all and other times the wind was quite strong. One day there were huge dust devils coming up from all sides of the mountain, converging at launch! On another day, some pilots (with compasses) chose to launch above the clouds that had formed around the mountain and descend though them when they got over the sea. Beginner pilots can fly first thing in che morning or at the end of che day, and expect a long, smooth flight in buoyant air. More experienced pilots, looking for thermals and/or cross-country flights, launch midday and can get several thousand feet over the mountain. When you've had enough thermal action, you can fly out over the calm, turquoise sea with 3,000' to 4,000' of altitude and enjoy the scenic beauty of Oludeniz. Or, if you choose, you can perform SIV maneuvers with plenty of room to play. After spiraling down to the wide, sandy beach, you will be greeted with a smile from one of the "professionals" who will help you unhook, shake the sand out of your glider, fold and pack it for about $1.85. Turkey was the site of the 1996 World Air Games and there are other flying sites to visit if you have the time. The Turkish people in general, and the pilots in particular, are among the most hospitable in the world. They are friendly and helpful and eager to see that you have a good time. We met pilots from all over Europe, Russia, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. To our surprise, very few Americans visit this site. The climate from May

Flying over the LZ

through October is usually warm and sunny. When we were there, in early September, it was fl yable almost all day, every day. If you are traveling with children, or other non-pilots, there is an abundance of interesting and fun things for them to see and do. There are accommodations for every budget from backpackers' cabins, for less than $15 per day, to all-inclusive seaside resorts for around $150 per day. The mile-long beach, which is also the LZ, is lined with excellent restaurants and bars. If you are coming to fly, you won't need a car. Everything you could possibly wane is within walking distance. We highly recommend contacting the Sky Sports team, who took all che work out of paragliding at Babadag and left che fun part to us. Sky Sports employs some of the most experienced pilots in Turkey, three of whom are on the Turkish National Paragliding Team. They accommodated our every need and became good friends. With their professional guidance we were able to get the most out of this flying experience. They can arrange for accommodations, transportation to and from local airports, transports up che mountain, site intros, lessons and equipment,

and can also assist you with cross-country trips and SIV instruction. One evening they treated us to an air show in which they performed radical maneuvers, full loops, stalls and parachute drops from tandem gliders. Turkish Airlines flies directly from New York to Istanbul. It is a 10-hour flight from New York to Istanbul and it takes another hour to fly from Istanbul to Dalaman, which is about an hour's drive

Contact Osman Gurkan at skyosman@hotmail.com, or check out www.paragliding.net/skysports, for more information about paragliding at Babadag. When you get there, Semih Sayir, at The Edge Paragliding, Theedgepg@superonline.com, can help you with equipment repairs or reserve re-packs. He is also a cross-country guide and provides personalized maneuvers instruction at Babadag. Paragliding at Babadag is an experience you will never forget. We're already looking forward to returning next summer to fly "Father Mountain"! •

A happy landing.

araglider pilots in New England are a determined lot. We travel hours from one end of the Region to the other chasing flyable conditions at our few official sites. We read with envy about flying competitions in other areas of the U.S. We plan our overdose-on-flying trips out West or Europe at least twice a year. The lack of dose-by flying sites has not deterred us from scratching out minute after minute of flying time. Our plight has knit us closer together with determination to make flying in New England fun . Not to be outdone by our flying brethren in other parts of the country, the New England Paragliding Club (NEPC) organized and held the first New England Paragliding Competition over two weekends. The competition, open to Para 2 pilots and above, took place at two sites West Rutland, Vermont, during the first weekend, and Burke Men. and West Rutland during the second weekend. Was the competition a success? Absolutely. More than 20 pilots competed, and another dozen were spectators and helped out. Points were awarded for flight duration, cross-country distance, and spot landings. Not every day was flyable, yet everyone had a chance to fly and have fun . There were no injuries - only one slightly bruised ego as the result of a tree landing. So, who won? Peter Greis from Arlington, MA came in first with 260 points. Peter is a recent Para 3 who managed a 3.5-hour flight at Burke Men. Bohan Soifer from Corinth, NY was second with 217 points. "Bo," also a Para 3, was consistent over both weekends, flying whenever

COMPETITION INVIGORATES NORTHEAST PARAGLIDING by RolfFuess/er Most ofthe pilots andfriends.

Another successful aspect of the competition was a raffle that was held to benefit site improvement and acquisition in New England. More than $900 was raised through the raffle. The proceeds will be split between developing a second paraglidingonly launch at West Rutland and pursuing new sites in the Region. The raffle was a great success because a number of vendors generously donated merchandise. Mike Eberle of Flight Design donated the grand prize of $1 ,500 toward a new S2 glider; Firebird's Jeff Farrell and Chris Santacroce donated a reserve worth $525; and Edel donated a flight suit and a number of the their calendars. Other vendors donating merchandise included Nova and Critter Mountain Wear. In addition, Jeff Farrell flew out for the first weekend and brought several Ignition and Flame gliders for demos.

thf' win.I =~s tight, f'vf'n in thf' t~in John

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Gallagher, the Para 3 president ofNEPC, came in a distant third with 122 points, and Sam Chambers of Burlington, VT captured fourth place with 115 points.

also brought New England pilots closer together. The first weekend featured a barbecue and the second a local rodeo.

NEPC's organizer Doug Sharpe and flight director Scott Berk, as well as Bob Corbo and John Atwood ofEarth and Sky Adventures in West Rutland, who provided the official meeting place, official bull's-eye, and barbecue locale. Three future paraglider pilots - Andrea Hrynchuk of Barrington, NH, Carol Kolenski of Raymond, NH, and Debbie Browne of Nashua, NH - pitched in to register competitors, developed the computer program to keep track of scores and results, and kept track of airtime and pilots. Special thanks also go out to Rick and Ruth (Masters) Sharp of Parafly Paragliding. More pilots were in the air or milling around talking pilot talk than at any other time in recent memory in New England. One of the visiting pilots from New York commented at the end that he had a great time connecting with new pilots and hoped that "this would be the first of many such

events in l'Jev, England." NEPC accomplished its mission of creating an event for paraglider pilots to compete, meet, and have fun within the Region. It was such a success that the dub is already planning the Second Annual New England Paragliding Competition for the summer of 1999. Stay tuned, New England pilots! Hone your skills and challenge the defending champion, Peter Greis.

For more information about the New England Paragliding Club check out their Web site at http://www. neparagliding. org. The Second Annual New England Paragliding Competition will be held August 20-22 at West Rutland, Vermont. See the Calendar ofEvents in this issue for more details. - Ed. • Le.ft to right: Bo Soifer, 2nd; Peter Greis, 1st; John Gallagher, 3rd.

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ly so surges, spiral dives and rotations tend to be more severe. Second, they are more vulnerable to turbulence and blow-back. I flew the large size Atlas and my hook-in weight put me at the bottom of the weight range. Such a light wing loading should reduce sink rate at the expense of top speed, reduce the brake line tension, and make collapses more likely but more benign.

design, Durable quality, Exciting power, and Leading world company, according to Ki-Hong Kyoung who conceived the name as the original designer and test pilot at Edel in 1985. The Atlas is the prime example of the Edel philosophy of paraglider safety and stability which they term Advanced Security Technology.

THE EDEL PRODUCT LINE Edel currently has five paragliders in their product line: the Atlas (D HV 1-2 and AFNOR Standard), the Saber (DHV 2 and AFNOR Performance), the Response (DHV 2 without accelerator and 2-3 with accelerator and AFNOR Performance) the Sector TX (DHV 3 and AFNOR

THE WING Sizing The Atlas is available in five sizes, but the extra-small size is not cenified by DHV or AFNOR, however, it is cenified by the Japanese certifying agency since this size accommodates the lighter-weight pilots in Japan. Edel's position is that they do not put gliders on the market that are uncertified. Extreme sizes of a model are often not cenified because the limited market doesn't warrant the expense of certification. Consumers need to be cautious about uncertified wings, particularly small ones, because their reduced flying mass (which includes the air inside the wing) has two significant conse-

Canopy Edel uses Japanese Toray ripstop Nylon-66 doth (45 g/m2). The fabric finish is produced using heated rollers in a process known as calendering. This heat and pressure process lowers the permeability by forcing the fibers between each other and flattening them. The owner's

PARAGLIDING

This review of the EDEL Atlas is the third article in a series of recreational paraglider reviews. The first portion ofthe lead review, which appeared in the Nov./Dec. '98 issue of this publication, provided a preview of this series and is recommended reading if you missed the first installment.

manual specifies the following details about the fabric: Warp Breaking Srrengrh (kg/5 cm) Tear Suengrh (kg/5 cm)

43 +/- 5 3.7 +I- 5

Weft (fi ll) 41 +/- 5 3.3 +/- 5

Extra Small

Small

Medium

Large

Extra Large

23.7 21.5

25.8 23.4

28.0 25.4

30.2 27.5

32.6 29.7

55-70 121-154

65-80 143-176

75-95 165-209

90-110 198-242

105-130* 231-286

Area (m2) Flat Projected

Weight Range The ribs are stiffened at the leading edge with a sandwich of Mylar (polyester film) and scrim (course woven cloth) . This same stiffening material is used on the ribs at the V-tab attachment points for strengthening and load distribution. Like most recreational gliders, the Atlas does not have V-ribs. This performanceimproving technology is prevalent among the intermediate and advanced gliders but is not always cost effective when used in entry-level wings. The Atlas is available in five colors:

MARCH/ APRIL

1999

Kilograms Pounds

*The 130 kg.figure is from the DHl/. The owner's manual states 125 kg (275 lbs.).

white, yellow, teal, violet and blue, and comes with a contrasting colored pattern along the under-surface at the leading edge which Mitch McAleer of Edel's Southwest Service Center refers to as "the bat." The center cell is marked with a readily discernible gothic "E".

Lines The lines of the Atlas are low-stretch Hoechst aramid with polyester sheathing. The lower lines are 1.7 mm with a breaking strength of 1,400 N (315 lbs.) and the upper lines are 1.2 mm with a breaking strength of700 N (157 lbs.). While

the lines are colored, the muted colors lack enough contrast between each other to be readily distinguishable. The DHV requires glider inspection every two years, and Edel recommends that the glider be sent to the distributor for a periodic inspection every 100 hours or once a year, whichever comes first. Edel USA prudently recommends SOhour inspections. The owner's manual specifies the following 21-item pass/fail inspection list.

Solo 210 Engine ~ POWER K Konig Engine ~ POWER PLUS Zanzottero Engine ~ POWER JET Vittorazi Engine ~ POWER LM Lucky Motor Engine POWER L Lark Engine ~

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Quick Link Line Retainers Edel uses plastic inserts with the quick links. These serve three functions: as line retainers, as color coding to distinguish the risers, and also to provide a mechanical barrier to prevent the nut of the quick link from opening, even if it is loose. If these inserts are ever damaged and a replacement is not available, the quick links should be tightened one-quarter turn past "finger tight" with a wrench to prevent them from opening. Additional wrench torque can crack the stainless steel

1. Leading edge cell openings 2. Mylar rib reinforcement 3. Top surface 4. Bottom surface 5. All flares (V-tabs) 6. Trailing edge 7. Brake line attachment points 8. A lines, upper 9. B lines, upper 10. C lines, upper 11. D lines, upper

6 Engines for 78 Models

12. A lines, lower 13. B lines, lower 14. C lines, lower 15. D lines, lower 16. Brake lines, upper 17. Brake lines, middle 18. Brake lines, lower 19. Ribs and vents 20. Risers and quick links 21. Toggles

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quick links and compromise their strength, so apply just enough torque that the nut cannot be loosened by hand. The color coding only distinguishes the A-riser with a red insert, while the other three inserts are all purple. I would have preferred four distinct colors for the inserts with colors matching those of the lines and risers.

Risers The Adas has four risers per side with four lower lines per riser, except for the D-riser which has three lower lines. The risers are all black with no contrasting visual distinction among them. The Adas does not have split A-risers or trimmers, though it does have an accelerator. Split A-risers are available by special order from Edel.

GROUND HANDLING Inflation Ease of inflation was obviously one of the

goals of the Adas design. At any wind speed, the glider can be easily inflated, either forward or reverse, without undershooting or overshooting. I was amazed that in very windy conditions, even while lightly loaded on the glider, I could repeatedly inflate the wing with no hands and it would never fail to come up all the way, overshoot me, or lift me off the ground. This wing could literally be inflated using no hands with your eyes closed! In terms of inflation characteristics, the Adas is a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Quantum, which liked to hang back unless the pilot followed through on the A-risers to bring it fully overhead. Kiting The Adas is so easy to kite that it trivializes the USHGA Novice rating requirement to kite for two minutes. An instructor could reduce kiting training time for students by using the Adas. On the down

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MARCH/ APRIL

1999

side, it will mask student deficiencies with his or her kiting skills, so when it's time for students "to graduate" to another glider, they may be at a disadvantage.

apply to the Atlas. Slightly backing off on the stirrup eliminated the flutter, which may have been contributed to by my light wing loading.

Deflation

HARNESS/GLIDER COMBINATION The three largest sizes of the Atlas are certified for use with both a GH-type harness (a harness without cross-straps), and a GX harness (cross-braced harness). The small size is not specifically approved for a GX harness, but I can't imagine that use of this type of harness would prove detrimental in any way. This combination was probably not tested for some logistical reason.

For deflation after landing in windy conditions, using the rear risers is usually preferable to using the brakes to avoid "drag-back." However, the Atlas is different because the 0-risers do not adequately stall the wing and it will still pull you forcefully. The owner's manual recommends "collapsing it with the C-risers or B-risers." If the B-risers are used, the glider will immediately reinflate when they are released, so I do not recommend this. I strongly recommend using the C-risers to deflate the Atlas.

IN-FLIGHT HANDLING Flight Familiarization The Atlas is optimized for security in flight! It feels very steadfast and reassuring in the air. The brake tension is initially light, but quickly increases even at moderate deflections, and there is a lot of range to the brake travel. These two factors of increasing tension and long range of motion make this glider extremely forgiving. It would be very difficult to inadvertently experience a pilot-induced problem with the Atlas such as a full stall or a spin. The owner's manual cautions that "the brake lines should not be set too long; it should be possible to fully flare for landing without the need for wraps." It performs all the basic maneuvers well, including pitch oscillations, roll reversals and spiral dives, and the glider is so collapse resistant that it takes noticeably more effort to induce collapses. This high degree of stability inspires confidence, but comes at the price of reduced responsiveness in handling and makes emergency descent techniques such as B-stalls more demanding.

Accelerator The Atlas speed system pulls down 12.0 cm (4.7 in.) on the A-riser, 10.5 cm (4.1 in.) on the B-riser, and 5.3 cm (2.1 in.) on the C-riser. Both the top and bottom surface of the leading edge exhibited fullspan flutter with full accelerator and slight cupping of the top surface. This is usually a precursor to leading edge collapse, but this indicator doesn't seem to

PERFORMANCE Consistent with the industry, the Atlas is trimmed to fly at the airspeed for maximum glide ratio in calm air which occurs between 33 km/hr. (20.5 mi./hr.) and 36 km/hr. (22.4 mi./hr.) depending upon the size and weight at which it's flown. The maximum speed is between 41 km/hr. (25.5 mi./hr.) and 44 km/hr. (27.3 mi./hr.). Edel claims a stall speed of 21 km/hr. (13.0 mi./hr.) for all sizes. Edel does not provide any maximum glide ratio or minimum sink rate data and none was measured. The lack of V-ribs suggests that the Atlas would have a performance disadvantage relative to recreational wings that incorporate this technology. SAFETY Collapse and Recovery Characteristics The Atlas was designed for safety. As Edel's Advanced Security Technology claims, it exhibits high resistance to closures and reinflates quickly. When the A-lines are released after doing big ears with either one or two lines per side, the tips immediately reinflate. When doing "ears," the tips don't lock in like many gliders so they must be held in. This glider has a tremendous amount of collapse resistance. The frontal ruck exhibited the same reluctance to dose and immediacy to reopen. The glider rotated less than 45° without any pilot input while recovering from 50% asymmetric closures. Big ears using two lines per side with full accelerator was very effective for descending, and felt very stable without any tendency to collapse despite the leading edge flutter and cupping. I recommend this as

the preferred emergency descent technique with the Atlas, except in the most extreme cases because it also produces increased airspeed. I didn't have the opportunity to thermal the Atlas, but I'm confident that the resistance to pilotinduced collapse that this glider exhibits carries over to turbulence-induced collapse resistance.

B-Stalls According to the owner's manual, "a fair amount of force is needed to initiate the B-line stall," with a pull of 15-45 cm (6-18 in.). Pulling straight down on the risers to execute a B-stall does not work well on the Atlas because of the unusually high loading of these lines. To achieve better leverage, Ki-Hong Kyoung recommended the following two-step technique: 1) Grasp the top of the B-riser webbing from the outside with the thumb side of your fists down. 2) Pull down while rotating the thumb side of your hands upward, bringing your elbows in toward one another with your hands descending to about chest height. This technique made it significantly easier for me to perform a B-stall on the Atlas. When inducing a B-stall, the Atlas rocks back and then forward noticeably before settling into a vertical trajectory, and surges considerably more than other gliders, but not so excessively as to be a safety concern. The center section of the wing curved in somewhat as if beginning a front horseshoe, but I wasn't high enough to pull further to determine if additional downward movement would draw the wing tips together. If the canopy did form a front horseshoe I doubt it would create any significant complication in recovery. Some low-speed flat rotation may occur. A front horseshoe is an uncommon descent technique induced by pulling the inner A-lines. It is very benign but difficult to induce on some gliders. If the Atlas, or any glider, exhibits a delay in recovery from a front horseshoe, one full and forceful symmetrical pump on both brakes should open the wing up immediately.

Search For Deep Stall I made a couple of attempts at search for deep stall with the brakes and was surprised by the range of brake travel motion. I did get the glider to "mush"

PARAGLIDING

with an increased sink rate at a reduced airspeed using one wrap, but it definitely was not a parachutal stall. The glider immediately accelerated to normal flight without a surge when the toggles were rapidly released. The owner's manual says, "To escape from (a constant) stall, release both control lines and pull both A-risers until the glider goes back to flying."

Special Certification Note There is one special certification note indicated by the DHV for the small size Atlas which states: "Spiral dive: at high sink rates > 14 m/ s stationary turn possible." I interpret this to mean that when the small size is rolled up into a steeply banked spiral dive, it can "lock into" the turn. I didn't have the opportunity to fly the small size Atlas. Apparently, recovery is possible because it passed certification and "exited on its own" at shallower bank angles according to the test report. I suspect it takes deliberate application of the outside brake to exit the "steady-state" spiral dive rather than being automatic upon release of the inside brake. Rear Riser Turns Rear-riser turns are a requirement to earn a USHGA Novice rating (P2), so pilots are both familiar with the technique and confident that they can execute a turn in case of a brake line failure. Since brake line pulleys became standard equipment, brake line failures have been dramatically reduced. Manufacturers could virtually eliminate this possibility by using polyethylene (PE) known by the brand names Spectra or Dyneema, rather than aramid fiber for the lower brake lines because PE does not fatigue. Stretching that can occur with PE would pose no problem for lower brake lines since the length is adjustable. The ineffectiveness of using the Atlas D-risers for deflation makes them a safer mechanism for doing rear-riser turns because of a reduced risk of stalling the wing and inducing a spin. I found that rear-riser turning ability with the Atlas was comparable to other gliders. If you are inexperienced with rear-riser turns, it's worth recognizing that the response is relatively sluggish compared to the effectiveness of the brakes. Turns will take more time and space because of the shallow bank angle, so plan ahead. In addition, the landing flare will not be as effective, so MARCH/APRIL

1999

for landings using one or both rear risers, be prepared to run and/or perform a PLF (Parachute Landing Fall).

OTHER FLIGHT MODES Towing I didn't have the opportunity to towlaunch the Atlas, but it is suitable for towing according to both Edel and the DHV.

Motoring I flew the extra large size Atlas with my "heavy" motor pack and greatly appreciated the impressive climb rate I could achieve with the upper weight extending to 130 kg (286 lbs.). Some foreign motor enthusiasts recommend flying a PPG (powered paraglider) at a heavier wing loading than for soaring to achieve a higher cruise speed for "traveling." I strongly disagree with this philosophy, because using a PPG for "traveling" is as inappropriate as turtle racing. Flying at a high wing loading increases the stall speed and makes launching and landing more difficult.

The Atlas handled well, including during climbing left turns, which can be a concern when it comes to inadvertent spins at a higher wing loading while flying with auxiliary power. I did a no-wind forward inflation on a shallow slope and the Atlas easily came overhead both full and straight. If you've been having difficulty with light-wind launches, this glider will increase your success rate. Based on my experience flying the Atlas in windy conditions at a light wing loading, I would recommend it for motor pilots for occasional free flight as well. If the wing is sized for a wing loading at the high end for motoring, I suggest that flying at the lighter wing loading without the motor weight would still be safe because of the glider's tremendous collapse resistance. The owner's manual states that "the Atlas should not be flown with auxiliary power." I view this as a statement inspired by liability concerns rather than safety concerns, based on my experience flying the glider under power. Continued on page 49.

by Mark Dale

ooking down, I saw the paraglider hundreds of feet below me change shape from an ellipse to a form which has no geometric description - an amorphous piece of nylon. Then it began to spin, stopped after several revolutions, and regained its elliptical shape once more. In an instant it spun again, this time in the opposite direction. By now, paraglider and pilot were closing in fast on the exotic vegetation below. Suddenly the mass of fabric spawned a smaller, round offspring. The reserve parachute had been deployed. Not long after, the whole mess settled gently into the thorny mattress of green. The pilot was uninjured, as I found out later. I started to grasp my own predicament. I noticed that I was the only one still flying. My eight companions were nowhere to be seen, nor were any of the other 10 or so pilots who were at the Tuxpan site that day, other than the antlike figures I observed standing on launch. I couldn't contact anyone with my radio. What had been barely enjoyable flying in strong thermals now assumed somewhat foreboding overtones. I guessed, rightly, that everyone else had bailed out and landed. Paranoia seeped into the fringes of my consciousness and, giving in to the instinctive fears which have served me well in the past, I flew out and down to the fried brown earth. The LZ was a parched, dusty field outside the town oflguala, near a shantytown of forlorn structures comprised of bits and pieces of corrugated tin, wood, cardboard and plastic tarp. As I touched down a swarm of boisterous children surrounded me. Dozens of dirty brown faces with sparkling eyes, grasping hands, a maelstrom of Spanish voices pleading, shouting, asking, "Por favor, sefior, quiero ayudarle!" Please, sir, I wish to help you! I was tugged this way and that by the tiny bodies dressed in worn clothing, all wanting to be chosen for the honor (and accompanying payment!) of helping this gringo stow his paraglider. In broken Spanish I attempted to instill some order in the confusion and pick deserving assistants. It was hard to choose because all wanted so desperately to help, but eventually I selected some of the smaller kids who had been bullied out

(

of the way by the older ones. Once finished with the task of expertly folding my glider they waited expectantly for their reward. "Quieres los animales?" I asked them. "Si, sefior" was the somewhat hesitant reply. At that point I pulled out my bag of "animales," a collection of brightly colored rubber snakes, gigantic insects, and whimsical finger puppets. Squeals of delight were my reward for giving them something they would keep and that would remind them of the strange gringo who floated in the sky. Thus ended my introduction to paragliding in Mexico.

This journey was the first time I had returned to Mexico since spending part of one summer at a remote ranch there near the eastern foothills of the Sierra Madre Oriental when I was a kid, over 30 years ago. I learned a lot about life's hard edge on that trip, but it was also an introduction to the warm and colorful people of Mexico. My attraction to paragliding is not only the love of flying in and of itself, but also the opportunity it affords to travel to places that are out of the ordinary, and to gain an understanding of the wonderfully diverse cultures that our world

PARAGLIDING

K y

)

View ji-om La T01re launch. Photo by Mark Dale.

comprises. I had great companions on this tour. Dave Verbois and Bruce Tracy are old hands at south-of-the-border flying, having made several previous trips there. Our two female pilots, Leslie Freitag and Teresa Carey, provided a mellowing counterbalance to the sometimes single-minded focus of the males. Steve Steckmyer and Carl Bevis are fellow employees at the Boeing company whose love of flight, like mine, encompasses everything from 7 47's to paragliders. Ray Kehl, one of our Seattle-area sky gods, kept us entertained

MARCH/ APRIL

1999

and put on a great reunion party after our return. And Charles Chaffee, whose recollection of high school Spanish was better than most, was an anchor of calm during the entire experience. Both Bruce and Chaffee are physicians whose expertise was called upon to analyze various aliments or injuries incurred during our stay. Bur back to our travelogue. We spent a few days more in Iguala and nearby Taxco, but conditions for flying were not very good. Instead, we had a fabulous time exploring the no-nonsense working-

class town of Iguala, as well as the touristinfested but picturesque village ofTaxco nestled in the high country. One day Bruce did manage to launch and fly cross-country north to the city of Cuernavaca from the Tuxpan site. Dave made a valiant attempt to follow, but this quickly ended with his glider wrapped around a low-slung power line after the second aborted launch attempt. The strong, gusty winds, low ceiling, and fastmoving scud were enough reason for the remainder of us to remain earthbound. Bruce paid dearly for his memorable

View from El Pefion launch. Photo by Mark Dale. flight, however, as he dropped his radio en route and we were totally at a loss as to where he was or whether he was okay. Hours of searching highways and backroads were to no avail, even with the help and local knowledge of Jose Luis, an Iguala resident whom we had hired as our retrieval driver. Eventually, Bruce showed up back in Iguala late in the day via an expensive taxi ride from Cuernavaca, after everyone else had relocated to Taxco. Once reunited with the group, his attempts to relate the epic flight were met with stony stares from those who had spent half the day worrying about him. A few shots of tequila into the evening and the whole fiasco was forgotten. From Taxco we made the half-day's drive to Valle de Bravo, a beautiful little town of cobblestone streets, whitewashed adobe buildings, and red tile roofs, cradled by pine-covered hills on the shore of a large Jago. Valle, as it is commonly known, is an old village which has taken on the role of resort town in recent decades. Its mild climate, beautiful setting, and recreational opportunities have all combined to draw the wealthy from Mexico City. On weekends the incoming stream of American-built SUV's topped with expensive mountain bikes, windsurfers, and other toys reminds one of the excesses that we in the U.S . enjoy so much and take for granted. Here, though, is an acute juxtaposition of the rich Spanish and mestizo urbanites with the

poor indigenas selling raw sugar cane on the street, and the coiling campesino plowing his field with oxen. At times I'm overwhelmed with a feeling of self-consc10usness. We stayed in a charming posada near the town plaza. A typical day began with a couple of persistent roosters crowing well before daylight, ensuring us an early start. We would then saunter down to one of several small restaurantes nearby and indulge in cafe con leche, jugo de naranja, and perhaps some huevos rancheros or enchiladas for breakfast. Even at this early hour the streets were bustling with people, shops were opening, and a hundred exotic sounds and smells filled the air. Appetites satisfied, we next visited the panaderia for baked goods and the carniceria to buy local cheese, such as queso de Oaxaca. Returning to the posada we would pack up our gear and brace ourselves for the second most dreaded task that we faced every day. That is, driving the Dodge van out of the courtyard through an entrance that left, literally, only a quarter inch of clearance on each side of the vehicle. This delicate maneuver cook time and blocked the narrow, busy street outside, usually resulting in a chorus of horn blowing from impatient motorists, loud cursing from our driver, and inevitably drawing the attention of the local policia. As I said, this was the second most dreaded task. The first most dreaded was driving the van back into the courtyard at

PARAGLIDING

tional foods such as tacos, tostados, enchiladas and tamales. The fare at these stalls is wonderful and very inexpensive, and they're a great place to engage in conversation with the locals. The atmosphere around the plaza at night was lively and always interesting. So how was the flying in Valle, you ask? After all, flying was our main reason for making the journey. Of course, the experience varies for different pilots, depending on conditions and their frame of mind. Let me relate my own perception of flying the two sites described earli-

the end of the day, which required more maneuvering and took more time. For someone such as myself who likes to keep a low profile, the entire procedure was almost unbearable. Our flying routine became one of visiting the El Pefion site (10 miles away as the pajaro flies) during the morning, and the La Torre site above town in the early evening. El Pefion is the place for crosscountry flights, with typically strong thermals and a hot, dirty LZ known for its switching winds. La Torre, named for the radio and lookout tower which stand

beside the concrete launch pad, is the site flown most often during the late afternoon and early evening. A small, grassy LZ on the lake shore, with food stands selling cold cerveza and hamburguesas, provided a relaxing place to critique other pilots' landing skills and swap flying stories at the end of the day. The evening brought us to my favorite time when we usually took a stroll around the plaza, perhaps stopping at a local restaurante for our supper. Or maybe we would visit some of the numerous street vendors who sell a wide variety of tradi-

There were many paraglider pilots in town due to an upcoming competition, several tour groups, and a large contingent of Norwegians. Thus, the launch at El Pefion was crowded and hectic. A highpressure system and pronounced inversion at around 9,000 feet AGL combined to produce strong, ragged thermals. Several pilots had thrown their reserves on previous days. On my first flight there, I tagged along with Bruce and Ray as they climbed high above launch and glided over to the feature for which the launch is named, a huge bullet-shaped outcrop of rock (el pefion translates to "the spire"). Riding thermals up alongside the intimidating cliffs that form El Peiion's flanks, we eventually made the jump back to the

Continued on page 49.

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PARAGLIDING

or a long time I've been looking for a paragliding pack designed for pilots who like to hike their gear up the hill. Most bags that come with a paraglider are woefully inadequate for anything but short hikes. They tend to lack the features one finds on decent backpacking- or climbing-oriented packs. Typically, the biggest problem with these paragliding packs is that they have no internal frame to transfer the load onto your hips, thus weighing down the shoulders to the point where one ends up hunched over like Quasimoto. In the past I've used my old Lowe Expedition pack for longer hikes. It carries very well, but is a pain to load because of its relatively small volume (compared to paragliding packs) and the fact that it is a top-loader (as opposed to a panelloader). Also, it must be worn outside the harness because it is too bulky to fit inside. In addition, it prevents me from tilting my head all the way back to check my wing during launch, as the back of my helmet hits the top of the pack frame. The Sky Trek paragliding pack designed by Richard Kocurek of Critter Mountain Wear effectively solves a lot of these problems. I received one of the first of these new packs last fall and have now had a chance to try it "in the field" a few of times. The pack has all the features a serious hiker needs for adjustment (sternum strap, load-leveler straps at the hips and shoulders, nice compression straps on the sides). It also has a clever internal frame that slides out of a zippered pocket, allowing it and the pack to be stored inside most modern harnesses. (It fits inside my SupAir Echo harness without fuss.) The shoulder straps and waist belt are well padded and comfortable. There is a very large pocket on the front of the pack, as well as on top. And the zipper for the main compartment (it's a "panel-loading" design) is very heavy-duty. The combination of adjustments allows the center of gravity of the load to be brought in close to the body, and for the load to be stabilized. Thus, there is no tendency for the load to shift side to side while you hike, and no feeling of being "pulled back" by an aft CG. I've used the pack to carry my full paragliding setup, including winter clothing, and there is room to spare. I haven't yet loaded it with my minimal paragliding

MARCH/APRIL

1999

S yTrek Para iding Pac article and photos by Mark Dale

setup (small harness, no reserve, etc.) that I might use on some summer climbs, but the compression straps are designed such that I'm sure they will compress the pack adequately to keep the load in tight. By the way, the compression straps are V-shaped, with two on each side of the pack, thus allowing one to independently compress the upper and lower halves of the pack. I was impressed by the pack's stability when hiking, and its ability to transfer as much of the weight as you want onto your waist. The waist belt is contoured into a "cup" shape that really hugs the

hips. The workmanship of the pack appears to be excellent, with stress points bar-tacked or reinforced with extra stitching. Of course, it will take a season or two to truly test the durability of the pack, but from all appearances it should hold up well. So what would I change if I had a choice? Probably just decrease the volume of the pack somewhat, which is more than I'll use 95% of the time. Of course, from a manufacturer's perspective this isn't practical as the volume must be enough to accommodate the largest wing/harness/gear combination a pilot

might carry. This really isn't a problem, though, as the compression straps effectively reduce the volume as mentioned earlier. In summary, I feel that there is finally a paragliding pack designed by a hiker for hikers that gives you the best of both worlds, comfort while hiking and compactness for storing while in flight. Check it out at the Critter Mountain Wear Web site at http://www.crittermtnwear.com/ or call at 1-800-MTN-WEAR. Happy Hiking! II

PARAGLIDING

MEET THE

1999 U.S. Para liding OTHAR LAWRENCE 0 thar Lawrence is a 24-year-old athlete living in Carbondale, Colorado. When he is not flying his paraglider in big air all over the world he can be found snowboarding, mountain biking, downhill skateboarding and rock climbing. At the age of 20, Othar started his successful paragliding career. Long-time friend, Chris Santacroce, taught Othar to fly in 1994, and early in 1995 Othar continued his instruction with former World Champion Rob Whittall. The training with these top-caliber pilots paid off immediately. In his first year of competition Othar placed fourth at the 1995 Elsinore X-C Meet and ninth at the 1995 U.S. Nationals in Chelan, Washington. In 1996 Othar closed in on the U.S. National Championship title with a third-place finish in Chelan. After three years of flying, Othar earned the second position on the U.S. Paragliding Team for the 1997 World Championships in Castajon de Sos, Spain. At the 1997 World Championships Othar learned enough to come home and win the 1997 National Championships at King Mountain, Idaho. He was the first American to win the overall title at the U.S. Nationals; prior to this a visiting European pilot had always won the event. The taste of victory in 1997 motivated Othar for the 1998 Season. He began the season with a victory at the 1998 NORAM in Valle de Bravo, Mexico. Othar traveled to Europe for the summer season and posted some impressive finishes. Flying against the most competitive nation in the world he placed sixth at the 1998 Swiss Nationals. Continuing his success, Othar placed fifth at the PreWorld Championships in Pinzgau, Austria. The most competitive international competition ever hosted in the U.S. was the 1998 Red Bull Wings Over

MARCH/ APRIL

1999

orld Team

The US. Paragliding World Team will represent the US. at the 1999 World Championships to be held in Austria this year. The Team is comprised of the top-ranked pilots based on results of the previous two years ofcompetition. Let's meet the team! Aspen, where Othar placed seventh. Incredibly solid results in 1997 and 1998 have made Othar the number oneranked pilot in the U.S. The momentum and knowledge that Othar has gained over the last four years will give him the edge he needs to be successful in 1999. Othar will be a member of the 1999 U.S. Paragliding Team at the 1999 World Championships in Austria. Helping Othar reach the podium is his Firebird paraglider and supporters Red Bull Energy Drink, Smith Sport Optics, Ball Varios and Firebird USA. TODD BIBLER Age:47 Born: St. Paul, MN Experience: Paragliding since 1988, competing since 1990. Favorite part of flying: Thermaling from a low save back to cloudbase. Least favorite part of flying: Waiting on launch. Favorite Flight: Golden to Invermere, BC in 1992. Seeing from the air the mountains I used to climb. Claims to Fame: In 1989, crashing while launching from an ice cliff on the 20,000-foot summit of Imja Tse in Nepal. I was so happy to be alive but broke my ankle and rib, then crawled, hopped with ski poles, and finally used one crutch for 10 days to get out. Never having been National Champion. Throwing my reserve four times. Never learning how to do big ears or

any other maneuver properly. 1996 number one-ranked U.S. pilot without winning any comps. 1998 NORAM champ again without actually winning the comps. Sponsors: Ball Varios, Edel, Nova. Favorite Flying Sites: Snowbird, UT; Aspen, CO; anywhere in the Alps. Fantasy:To fly more than 200 miles from Snowbird across Wyoming. Goal: Bivy flying across Switzerland, tandem with my wife Maureen. Favorite pastime: Snowboarding. Currently: Backpacking tent designer for Black Diamond Equipment. CHRISTOPHER WHITECLOUD SANTACROCE Age:26 Born: Glenwood Springs, CO Experience: Paragliding since 1991, competing since 1993. Favorite part offlying: Wasting altitude; making a 20-minute sled ride last four minutes. Least favorite part offlying: Having to talk about big ears. Favorite Flight: Aspen to Carbondale. It was only 30 miles but I flew by Pyramid Peak and the Maroon Bells, over Capitol, Sopris and then into Carbondale where I flew over the house where I grew up. My mother came outside to watch me land. Claims to Fame: Hit the water really hard once. North American Champion in 1997. Arrived fifth to goal in a 65-mile task during the Owens Valley World Cup in 1993, landed on my knees, then realized

that I forgot my glider photo. Taught my ex-girlfriend to fly and she beat me in competition. Taught Othar and Mary Anne Karren and they both beat me in competition routinely. Never done big ears in public. Almost won a competition once. Overturn in most thermals for the fun of it. Fly with at least one new piece of equipment every comp (vario, harness, glider). Lived out of a bag for the last few years. Sponsors: Firebird, Flytec Favorite Beverage: Red Bull ($200 a month habit). Favorite Flying Sites: Aspen, CO; Telluride, CO; and anywhere I can get over the water or a swamp. Goal· Own a paraglider that I can jump out of an airplane with (i.e., fly around above cloud base). Fantasy: Own a stationary winch that I can operate from my paraglider. Favorite pastime: Collecting Delta Sky Miles and upgrades. Currently: VP of Super Fly, Inc. North American Distributor for Firebird, Gin Gliders, High Adventure, System X and Lazer. DAVE BRIDGES Dave Bridges has been flying paragliders since 1989 and has been actively working in the paragliding industry as a factory competition pilot, sales representative and tandem pilot since 1991. He has had a fairly prolific career as a competition pilot. Some of the highlights include: winning the '95 and '96 U.S. National Championship tides; first place in the '96 Telluride X-C Open; second place in the '97 Aspen Open; and first place in the '97 Mexican Nationals. Dave was also the number one-ranked U.S. pilot in 1996 and 1997. During those years he moved to Europe to compete in the PWC as well as fly in the German League. At the 1997 World Championships in Spain he was one of the top point scorers in the U.S. team's

unprecedented sixth-place finish. Today Dave flies for Firebird USA and works for Aspen Paragliding and Expeditions as a tandem pilot and climbing guide. He stays in shape for paragliding with rock climbing, ice climbing, and high altitude mountaineering. JOSH COHN Age: 26 Born: San Francisco, CA Experience: Paragliding for 10 years and competing the last six. Favorite part of competition: Flying X-C with his buddies, or better yet, coming in to goal with them. Claims to Fame: Won a task at the '97 World Meet with a good bit of help from a fast glider. Holder of the unofficial U.S. open distance record (173 miles) for one week last summer. Had the new experience of leading the '98 U.S. Nationals until the last task (another story). Claims to infamy: Competing in a "comfy chair" harness. Possession of the mysterious "plummet button." Sponsors: Pro Design, Ball Varios, and all the generous folks who helped sponsor the '97 World Team. Favorite flying sites: Annecy, France; Castejon de Sos, Spain; Valle de Bravo, Mexico; Aspen, CO; Hobbs, NM. Favorite Beers: Anchor Steam and Oasis. Currently: Living in Boulder, CO, working on a Masters in geophysics and doing research on glaciers. BILL BELCOURT Age: 34 Experience: Flying since 1990, competing since 1993. Member of the 1997 World Team. He has competed in virtually every meet in the states in the last four years and competed in France and Italy. Notable Flights: Paragliding out-andreturn record in Utah of 54 miles.

Co-holder of the paragliding open-distance record in Utah of 90 miles. Goals; To promote the sport and pass along his knowledge. Flying is an amazing gift. Please do what you can where you can to further its continuance. Work: Sales rep for Black Diamond Equipment, a manufacturer of climbing equipment. High points: Second place at the 1996 Nationals, a six-task meet. Third place at Aspen in 1997. Breaking the state distance record flying with Todd Bibler. Re-qualifying for the World Team after breaking his neck in a crash on the last day of the 1997 Nationals at King Mtn., Idaho. Any X-C flying with friends. Thanks to: Jeff Farrell and Chris Santacroce at Super Fly Inc., and Flytec USA for their support. MARYANNE KARREN At age 17, Mary Anne Karren took her first paragliding flight at Point of the Mountain, Utah, promptly withdrew from college, moved out of state, and spent the next five years doing nothing but paragliding. She entered competitions, taught people to fly, cruised the country, and generally had one hell of a good time. Major highlights of the fiveyear tour include:

Teaching tons of great people to fly. Winning the U.S. Women's National Champion title in 1997 at King Mountain, Idaho. Touring the U.S., Mexico and Canada as a guide and competition pilot. Competing as a member of the (awesome) 1997 U.S. World Team at Castejon de Sos, Spain. Winning the U.S. Women's National Champion title in 1998 at Lakeview, Oregon. Taking plenty of other women's tides in North American events. Qualifying for the 1999 U.S. World Team to compete in Austria this summer. PARAGLIDING

Mary Anne has spent the past year living in Salt Lake City, working on a Bachelor's degree in biology, flying, playing guitar and snowboarding. She's currently looking forward to a great competition season and another go at the World Championships this summer.

NATHANIEL WALKER

SCALES Age: 27 Born: Seattle, WA Experience: Paragliding since 1992, competing since 1994.

Favorite part offlying: Climbing to cloud base with a group of buddies, on an epic day in the middle of nowhere. Least favorite part offlying: Windy days. Favorite Flight: 100-km out-and-return from Feltre, Italy, on the Cult M prototype. I flew over the amazing Italian Alps all day by myself with no idea where I was and no radio to ask anyone.

Claims to Fame: Taken more bad pictures and dropped more cameras than anyone, ever in history. Almost won a competition once. Almost been sponsored a couple of times. Attended every comp in the U.S. in the last five years, except the two in my backyard (King Mtn.). Crash landed a Genesis in a tree (big Canadian one) eight hours from the road. Had to leave it and walk back the next day with a saw to get it out. Generally having more fun at comps than most (possibly related to never winning). Sponsors: Edel. Anyone else like to help? Favorite Flying Sites: Valle de Bravo, Mexico (I almost won); Golden, BC (when it's not raining); Chelan, WA. Favorite Beverage: Cheap beer in the Yates van on the way back from goal. Goal: Live with my beautiful fiancee on a piece of property with a flying site in the backyard and a white-water river in the front. Fantasy: Win a comp once. Favorite pastimes: Skateboarding big hills, snow skiing and kayaking. Currently: Salesman for Salamander

MARCH/APRIL

1999

Paddle Gear and Ruff Wear performance dog products.

GARY BROCK The first three years of my aviation career were in the U.S. Army flying the AH-I Cobra Helicopter. During this time I performed duties as a simulator instructor, armament instructor, range check pilot, and armament officer. I accumulated just over 1,400 hours in helicopter aircraft, but because of a strong desire to fly fixed-wing aircraft, I terminated my military flying career in March of 1981, and began to pursue a career in civilian aviation. The year of '81 was not a kind year to aviation in general, let alone a neophyte with only 1,400 hours and no fixed-wing experience. However, I wasn't going to let this minor nuisance stand in my way. All I could do was to continue pursuing "THE" dream. I did this by taking every odd job I could at the local airport, and became a pest to every aircraft owner I could find. It eventually paid off through an increasingly busy schedule of flights with several aircraft owners. The next hurdle was crossed in the spring of 1984 when I secured a position flying a Learjet for a businessman in Roseburg, Oregon. This was my first opportunity in the civilian world to actually get paid for what I loved to do, and it was, quite frankly, an eye-opening experience. The gentleman I worked for eventually bought two FBO's in Roseburg and my job changed dramatically. Ultimately, I became an FAR Part 135 charter pilot, and was shouldered with instructor responsibilities in a variety of aircraft. After 18 months with this organization I was offered a job with an up-and-coming Forest Products company in Portland, Oregon. It was an opportunity for me to further my experience and also a welcome change from the grinding hours of the charter world. The Forest Products company I worked for eventually grew to be the fourth largest manufacturer of lumber products in North America. The company also had a voracious appetite for aircraft.

During the five years I worked for this company, they went through seven different aircraft. This gave me an even broader experience base, and neatly added hours to the logbook. In addition, I performed duties in a variety of positions including purchasing, product quality control, and aviation department management. I learned that there was more to business aviation than sitting behind an instrument panel. Unfortunately, the timber industry went on its ear in 1990, and I found myself looking for a job at the beginning of '91. A well-established FBO and charter company in Portland offered me a position as an FAR Part 135 charter pilot, and I found myself once again flying for a living. I worked for this company for just over two years, and eventually became an FAA Designated Examiner in the BE-400 BeechJet. The next position I accepted was with a businessman who owned a software company in Seattle, Washington, and commuted from Southern California on a weekly basis. The position was as Chief Pilot/General Manager. In this position, I managed the maintenance and operation of three large yachts and one aircraft. Before I took this position I knew the plethora of responsibilities associated with the operation of an aircraft, but was rudely awakened by the realization of the hours and details required to operate and maintain the three yachts. The company's annual budget approached 1.6 million dollars, and the largest part of it was dedicated to the yachts. It was during this time that I discovered the sport of paragliding, and I can (as if it were yesterday) remember the first time I saw a paraglider. I knew that I had stumbled upon an opportunity to discover aviation all over again: It was a chance to enjoy the same exhilaration I had when I first got into aviation, and I was not going to let it pass me by. During my first year of paragliding I flew as often as possible, and bought every publication I could find that would help me progress in the sport. Although I initially got involved in paragliding singularly for the enjoyment of aviation, I soon realized a strong desire to compete on a national and international level, and promptly made it my primary goal to become a U.S. National Paragliding

Champion. To do this I knew it would take a significant commitment, not only personally, because of the time dedicated to the sport, but financially as well. The first paragliding competition I participated in was the 1996 U.S. Pre-Nationals in Telluride, Colorado. There were a total of 25 contestants competing in the competition, and I was an unknown face in the crowd. I entered the competition visualizing an unsuspected first-place finish, but experienced an abrupt reality check when I placed dead last. I chalked it up as an opportunity to gain insight into the competitive paragliding community, and walked away with more knowledge than I had arrived with. The month after competing in the Telluride competition I took a new job as a Captain/Safety Program Manager for Taco Bell Corp., and was unable to compete in the 1996 U.S. Nationals. However, since establishing myself with the company, Taco Bell has been extremely flexible, allowing me to compete regularly. The second paragliding competition I participated in was the 1997 U.S. Nationals in Arco, Idaho. The field of competitors had grown from 25 to 50, and again I was an unknown face in the crowd. For this competition I had bought a new competition wing that would put me on a more even keel with the premier competition pilots attending the event. Coming to this competition I had a definite goal of placing between 10th and 15th. After surviving the week-long schedule of flying, I placed 13th overall, and 10th among the U.S. contestants. I had accomplished what I wanted, and walked away as a recognizable face in the crowd. Since becoming involved in paragliding, I have noticed an identifiable increase in corporate sponsorships of paragliding from the business community, and to that extent, during the summer of 1998, "Red Bull" power drink committed to sponsoring/hosting an international paragliding competition in Aspen, Colorado. By participating in this event, I had crossed the border between national and international competition, and would experience a definite "raising of the bar" regarding the level of the competitors. Of the 47 competitors participating in the event, only 27 were from the United States; the

remaining 21 were some of the best pilots from around the world. For the "Red Bull" competition I set a goal of placing between 10th and 15th, and to bring my equipment up to the level of the leading competition pilots I bought a new competition wing and harness. Flying with such an experienced and capable field of competitors would make attaining my goal difficult, but if I flew with proper tactics and used judicious patience, I knew I would do well. At the end of the competition I walked away with a 15th-place finish, a more refined and experienced pilot, and had attained a more focused strategy to take to the U.S. Nationals just two weeks later. Having just flown in the "Red Bull" competition, I felt better prepared to compete in the field of 42 pilots entered the U.S. Nationals. My goal for this competition was to place somewhere between third and eighth. I had made a few mistakes in the last competition, and was determined to use those lessons as a springboard for a more focused and planned strategy. The new strategy obviously worked, as I tied for first place, and was the new U.S. National Paragliding Champion. It had taken three years to accomplish my goal, but it was well worth the effort. From the moment I became involved in paragliding I have pursued the sport with the same devotion and vigor that I have dedicated to my past aviation endeavors. I believe anyone can accomplish what I have, given the proper amount of time and effort. I really love this sport, and hope to see it grow in size and public awareness.

PAUJL KJLEMOND Hint: The pale, geeky guy with the spectacles and slow reflexes is not a competition pilot, he's the volunteer team leader. Born and raised in flat, cold Minnesota, he moved to Seattle for a computer programming job. Paul became hooked on flying from his very first flight in 1991, at what is now the Air Play Flight Park in Washington. In 1997 he

led the U.S. Team to a sixth-place finish at the World Championships in Spain. Paul lives in Seattle with his wife Dana, who often joins him hiking and flying in Washington's Cascade Mountains. Besides leading the U.S. Team, Paul is a Directorat-Large of the USHGA, USHGA Examiner, chair of the Paragliding Accident Committee, tandem instructor, and a contributor to Paragliding magazine. Paul comments, "Our best pilots bump wing tips with 150 other gliders all hogging the same rough thermal, then race full speed around a 50-mile course through violent turbulence, all on twitchy comp gliders. Helping out on the team is almost as much fun, and a bit safer too."

Age: 32 Favorite part offlying: X-C "sightseeing tours" over mountains, low enough to really experience them. Least favorite part offlying: Hiking down 3,500 feet with your wing on your back, thinking about the weather data you should have checked and mulling over your new insight into how little the weather data you actually did check really implies. Favorite Flight: Summer of 199 5. Launched with Jabe Blumenthal at Annecy's Forclaz, ran ~ 18 miles northeast through stunning mountains and valleys. A big reach for me at the time. Claims to Fame: Crashed into a tree in Mexico. Wrote an article about it. Sponsors: My wife Dana, and tons of great pilots in the paragliding community who buy T-shirts! Favorite flying sites: North America: Goat Peak-Mazama, Washington; Pemberton, BC; Rampart Ridge, Washington. Europe: Mieussy (F); Fiesch (CH); Lagalb (CH); Annecy (F); Interlaken (CH); tons more ... Venezuela is great. Favorite beverage: Rogue Shakespeare Stout (Guinness stinks). Goal: Closest I ever got to goal was three miles away, in a task in the 1996 Nationals. I hope to fly from Washington's big volcanoes this year. Fantasy: Getting to goal. Favorite pastimes: Geeking on the Internet and at USHGA Board meetings, paragliding (duh!), mountaineering, snowboarding, surfing, reading, snorkeling. Just getting into rock climbing thanks to Dave and Lizzy. Ill PARAGLIDING

Continued.from page 37.

Continued.from page 42.

Big ears are not as easy to do with the Atlas as they are with wings that have split A-risers. Also, rear-riser trimmers are not a factory option. A set of "motor risers" with these two features may be made available by special order from Edel. Pilots should recognize that certification no longer applies if trimmers are added to a wing. Pilots are advised to seek guidance and use extra caution when becoming familiar with the expanded flight envelope which trimmers provide.

edge of the mesa which separated us from the blue lago and Valle. We fought with turbulent lift until climbing above 10,000 feet AGL, and then I hung back and watched as my two compadres started their glide over the mesa. They both found nothing to sustain their flights, and were soon kicking up dust as they landed in the furrowed fields below. Not wishing to join them, I aimed for a low, wooded bump shown on the map as Cerro Gordo. I arrived with only a few hundred feet of elevation remaining. All those years of scratching close to the hillsides at my home site paid off as I worked the weak thermals, just barely gaining elevation with each pass. Eventually I was able to mal(e my way up to the top of the forested hump where multiple thermals converged and took me to over 10,000 feet AGL once more. Now I could make the long glide of several miles to Valle. The air was smooth over the lake, and for the first time since launching I found myself relaxed. The scene below was absolutely breathtaking with the deep blue water speckled by whitecaps. To the east rose the looming, snow-covered hulk of the dormant 15,500' volcano, Nevado de Toluca. Ahead and to the north, spread out like a toy village among the hills that fell to the lake, was Valle. There was plenty of altitude when I arrived for an aerial tour of the town, followed by a gentle landing along the shore. The usual ritual of choosing a few muchachos to help fold my wing ensued. The following day I repeated the flight from El Perron to Valle, following almost exactly the same path. Bruce, Ray and Dave took a more westerly route, landing at various places along the way. Unfortunately, Ray encountered some nasty turbulence above a dirt field that he had picked out for an LZ just outside of town. Not far off the deck his glider suffered a major collapse and the ensuing impact resulted in injuries to Ray's elbow and shoulder. He was assisted by a concerned campesino family that had witnessed the event. As I was getting ready to leave the lakeside LZ in Valle for a La Torre flight, Ray, looking somewhat beat up and chagrined, appeared in one of the ubiquitous blue taxis that roam Valle and the surrounding countryside. He insisted that I go ahead and fly, stoically assuring

MAINTENANCEANDSTORAGE The owner's manual is the most detailed and comprehensive I have seen to date. It says to "use only warm water" for cleaning, and that "detergents may damage the fabric and coating." It further cautions that if the canopy comes in contact with salt water it should be rinsed with fresh water and dried indoors away from sunlight before storing. SUMMARY Edd's Advanced Security Technology is not just a marketing cliche, but a design concept that has been realized in the Atlas. This wing is perfectly suited for the pilot who is looking for maximum security in flight. The Atlas is an example of simplicity in design with a minimum of features. It launches easily no matter what the conditions or pilot skill, so the pilot who flies irregularly and doesn't have an opportunity to stay "current" would be well suited to the Atlas. If you're apprehensive about turbulence-induced collapses while thermaling (such as a hang glider pilot who is considering paragliding), the Atlas would be a good choice to alleviate your anxiety and provide the stability you're seeking. ABOUT THE AUTHOR 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 writing a book on powered paragliding. He resides in San Diego, California. For comments or questions you're invited to contact him directly via e-mail at g_achucu@qualcomm.com or by telephone at (619) 292-1552. II MARCH/ APRIL

1999

me that he was okay. A later inspection by Bruce and Chaffee led to the conclusion that Ray's injuries, though painful, did not appear serious enough to warrant immediate medical attention. Flying at La Torre was usually a more pleasant experience than at El Perron, and the scenery is exquisite. There seemed to be a consistent period of one or two hours late in the day that provided smooth glass-off flying. However, I wouldn't call it a beginner's site as the launch area is constricted and steep, and some very large pines flank its sides. The first day that we flew La Torre we were greeted upon arrival with the unforgettable scene of a pilot dangling from his lines a good 50 feet or so off the ground below a paraglider entangled in a very large tree. As he was at least 10 feet from the trunk and on the down-slope side of the pine, the sense of exposure must have been riveting! Despite this introductory spectacle we all enjoyed several agreeable flights at La Torre during our stay. For the most part the lift was found near the hill and the flying consisted of making beats back and forth in the general vicinity of launch, with an occasional upward corkscrew in a thermal. All the while one absorbed the beautiful vista from the comfort of his harness. As always, the days slipped away and much too soon it was time to depart. Driving eastward we left the evergreen woodland of the Valle region and entered the high, arid territory that comprises the altiplano central. As the shadows lengthened at day's end, our road led down into the huge basin lying at over 7,000 feet which cradles the overwhelming mass of humanity known as Mexico City. Backdropped against the capital's twinkling lights and softened by the haze of smog was the distant massive bulk of the volcano Pico de Orizaba, rising to almost 19,000 feet. I smiled wryly as our vehicles entered the outskirts of the megalopolis and we braced ourselves for the last lesson of our journey, a graduate-level course in route-finding and traffic negotiation. We were soon a mere drop in an ocean of humanity. Thus ended our time in enigmatic Mexico. Another thread has been woven into the fabric of our lives. I can't wait to go back. II

PARAGLIDING ADVISORY: Used paragliders should always be thoroughly inspected before flying for the first time. If in doubt, many paragliding businesses will be happy to give an objective opinion on the condition of equipment you bring them to inspect. BUYERS SHOULD SELECT EQUIPMENT THAT IS APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR SKILL LEVEL OR RATING. NEW PILOTS SHOULD SEEK PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTION FROM A USHGA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR. PARAGLIDERS 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, 85-105kg., purple, new retail $3,275/sale price $1,600. Apco Futura 32 -performance intermediate, 70 hours, great condition, 100-l 20kg., yellow, new price $3,625/sale price $1,500. Apco Futura 30 -performance intermediate, 30 hours, excellent condition, 85-105kg., blue, new price $3,525/sale price $1,500. Edel Superspace II-intermediate, large 85-1 lOkg and medium 70-95kg., great condition, 95 hours, $800 each. ITV Merak 29-performance intermediate, 200 hours, good condirion, 8095kg., $400. Rick Higgins (541) 490-2643. EDEL ENERGY XL Pete (435) 658-1892.

Good condition $800. Call

EDEL SECTOR- High hours but recent porosity test was excellent $600 OBO. Edel Superspace 25 - great shape, 40 hours, must sell, make offer. (801) 474-2380.

EDEL SUPERSPACE XL Call Darren (970) 925-2483.

Good condition $900.

EDEL SUPERSPACE 22 - Small, inspected 7/98, <20 hours, Edel Hero harness, Secura Max 30 reserve $2,000 OBO. (307) 733-5154. FIREBIRD FLAME XL- 1998, 6 hours, small surface, tree tear repaired by Firebird, flies great-went ro Ignition $1,800. (978) 851-8226, fax (978) 851-4030, email fanmannonh@webtv.net FLIGHT DESIGN A6 26VT 98, orange/red, 851 lOkg all incl., DHV 2, like new, 6 flight $1,950. (801) 474-2380, kmuench@edu.uni-klu.ac.at FREE-X FRANTIC PLUS - Mint, xs. Advance harness, Pro Design reserve-small, Lazer carbon helmetsmall. Best offer. (250) 595-2335, geniren@hotmail.com NOVA XYON 26 - Good shape, Evolution harness $1,200. (760) 75.'l-7499.

Classified advertising: new life for your equipment and cash in your pocket. What a deal!

EDEL QUANTUM - Large, 35 hours, inspected March '98, Hero harness & reserve, all excellent condition $1,800 OBO. John (607) 749-6928 evet1ings.

PRELUDE 1999 - Promo priced, limited quantiry, XL only $1,650. (303) 347-8995. PRO DESIGN COMPACT 33 - 4 hours, never rowed, magenta/purple, w/reserve, helmet, Ball vario, windgauge, Hall bag$1,575 OBO. Ian (414) 547-7526, miller547@prodigy.net PRO DESIGN PRO-FEEL 37 - Large, 120 hours, Vertex harness, X-S 400 reserve. Fresh inspection and repack by Pro Design USA $1,800 OBO. Bob (925) 825-4979 late evening. UP STELLAR 33 - Excellent condition, 30 hours, Edel steerable reserve, helmet, harness $1,500. (214) 871-0647. WILLS WING 121 - Like new, pink/green, 45 hours, w/harness & reserve $1,300. (805) 298-1222, arkow@jps.ne r

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

Begin with

OTowing 0 Schools & Dealers O Ultralights O Publications & Organizations OWanted O Harnesses

19_ _ issue and run for _ _ _ __

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

_____ @$1.00= _ _ __

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

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PARAGLIDING

FEATURES NO-WIND REVERSE LAUNCHES &OTHER 6ROUND HANDUN6 TIPS IMPORTANT CLASSROOM BASICS BRILLIANT ON-BOARD TANDEM VIDEO AT CHELAN BUlTE APPEAUN6 INTROOUCTORY VIDEO FOR PROSPECTIVE PILOTS

J,NLY $29.9 Plus S4 I/H

POWERED PARAGLIDERS ZR250 LA MOUETTE - w/trike attached, Pro Design Companion wing (440lbs), XS-400 emergency parachute, instruments, 3.5gal bottom gas tank, 2 props, foot throttle, great condirion, less than 40hrs TT. Daytime (435) 586-1446. EMERGENCY PARACHUTES ADVENTURE SPORTS LOFT - Experienced paragliding rigging center. Reserve repacks, repairs & modifications. Master Rigger Scott Christensen (909) 657-2676, fax (909) 657-3747, email asi@pe.ner. Visit our web site: http://www. pe.nec/-asi

SCHOOLS & DEALERS

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 17,000 student flights to dace, reaching new pilots is his profession. Individualized training with state-of-the-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 ocher spectacular scenery. Grear lodging bargains or luxury accom·· modations. 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

AIR TIME OF SAN FRANCISCO WEST COAST PARAGLIDING THIS PREMIER PARAGLIDING FACILITY - Is now under the management of LARS LINDE of East Coast Paragliding and GREG SMITH of Edel USA. W c are qualified to issue all possible paragliding Iicenses pursuant to USHGA standards. THE BEST SHOP IN THE WEST! We offer a full spectrum of instruction, tandem, repairs and porosity tests. We stock all major brands of paragliding equipment available on the market. Enroll in our demo day-everyday program. SHOP (415) 759-1177, OFFICE (732) 747-7845.

BRAND NEW $495 - 38sq/m & 42sq/m. Used $300 meets military specs. (303) 347-8995. HARNESSES

USHGA certified paragliding & hang gliding instruction. Courses arc expertly run on a friendly, informarive basis. We have been introducing people to the world of foot launched flight since 1976. New and used gliders and accessories. Ball, Comet, Edel, Firebird, ITV, Pacific Airwave, Wills Wing and others. All skill levels welcome. PO Box 1226, Del Mar CA 92014. (619) 481-7400 Southern California. NAS: THE REST - Large, military specifications, back protector $450. (303) 347-8995. WOODY VALLEY MODEL- Is now introducing its full line of unique Italian paragliding and hang gliding harnesses in the United States. For info call Eastcoast Paragliding at (914) 647-3377. Dealer inquires welco1ne.

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

AIRJUNKIES PARAGLIDING - Join KEN BAIER for your "Pursuir of Paragliding Excellence" in the land of year-round, excellent paragliding: Southern California and the Baja. Courses for Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Instructor racings. Powered paragliding, soaring and maneuvers clinics, guided tours, tandem and cowing instruction and special evenrs. USHGA certified. Handling the latest equipment. Call (760) 753-2664 for information. AIRTEK PARAGLIDING - In sunny San Diego. Year-round thermal & ridge soaring, beginner chru advanced instruction, all major brands, l-888-2SKYIGO, phone/fax (619) 450-6696.

FLY ABOVE ALL - Experience the thrill of flying today at the best training hill in the western US! Year-round paragliding solo and tandem instruction, tandem flights, and all the equipmenr you need to fly. Fully certified, individualized instruction includes ground school, hands-on training on state-of-the-arc equipment using 2-way radios at a hill where you can drive to the top, and we can pick you up at the bottom after each flight! Visit our website ac: www.flyaboveall.com or call (805) 965-3733 and step into flight! HIGH ADVENTURE - Paragliding, hang gliding school. Equipment, sales, service at world famous Marshal Peak. USHGA tandem instructor: Rob McKenzie. By appoimment year round (909) 883-8488, www.eee.org/bus/high_adventure

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MARCH/APRIL

1999

E-Mail Address hang-glide@outer-banks.com

ADVENTURE SPORTS - Mountain tours for all levels. USHGA Certified school & ratings. Dealer for all major brands. 3650-22 Research Way, Carson City NV 89706. (775) 883-7070, email: advspts@pryamid.net web site: http://www.pyramid.net/advspts SOUTHERN SKIES - MOUNTAIN FLYING and POWERED PARAGLIDING instruction, sales and service with full-time shop, 1 hour north of Charlotte. 7 beautiful flying sites nearhy. (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERNSKIES.NET

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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 & eveiything else) $49.95. 10169 N 15 E, Idaho Falls, ID 83401. Phone or fax (208) 524-0039, email KingMtPG@aol.com, Visa/Mastercard/Discover.

at Kitty Hawk Kites Outer Banks, NC Lessons Daily Towing & Foot Launch Year Round Sales & Service CALL TODAY! 800-334-4777 919-441-4124

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P.AAA.GLllll>ING THE NUMBER 1 - Rated USHGA paragliding school in the United 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 full-time towing ar 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. IKAROS SPORT AVIATION - Lessons, service, equipment. Paragliding, hang gliding, powered paragliding, trikes. Phone (718) 777-7000, WWW.FLYFORFUN.NET

OVER THE HILL PARAGLIDING - Oregon/SW Washington. Sales, service, heginner-advanced USHGA certified instruction. Nova, Fircbird, Apco, AT, Pro Design, SOL, Ball, Flytec, HES Quantum parachutes. Service: full service shop, FAA rigger repairs/mods. Out of state 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 SE Yellowhammer, Gresham OR 97080. (503) 667-4557, fax (503) 666-6979. Email: orhpara@teleport.com web: http://www.releport.com/ ~orhpara/

UTAH

CLOUD 9 PARAGLIDING - 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 unlimited lesson package which is 100% applied toward the purchase of new paragliding gear. Call or email for information pack (801) 553-1834. Web site is www.paragliders.com email at in fo@paragliders.com

Join us at the most CONSISTENT, EASY, CONVENIENT drive up, beginner and intermediate site in the world! GREAT WEATHER and YEAR-ROUND Aying, only 30 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport. GUIDING available to all UTAH SLTES, 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 theory. FIREBIRD dealer.

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." 1-'ree camping right where you learn. Great discount bargain lodging or luxury accommodations. Guide services, mountain tours, site information. Affordable classes. for a free informarion package, call roll free 1-888-9445433, email H BC3@aol.com, fax (801) 576-6482, 12665 S Minureman Dr., Draper UT 84020.

HILL COUNTRY PARAGLIDING INC - Learn complete pilor skills. Personalized USHGA certified training, ridge soaring, foor & tow launching in central Texas. MOTORIZED PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE. (915) 3791185. Re 1, Box 16!', Tow TX 78672. KITE ENTERPRJSES - Foot launch, payout winch cow and powered paraglider instruction too. Training, sales, rentals and repair. Edel, Airwave, Wills Wing, UP and DK Whisper. Dallas, Fort Worth and north Texas area. 211 Ellis, Allen TX 75002. (972) 390-9090 nights,

VIRGINIA KITfY HA WK KITES -

BIG SKY PARAGL1D1NG - Specializing in advanced training, tandems, clinics and tours, since 1990. Dale Covington 1-800-782-9204, (8Cll) 474-2380.

MARCH/APRIL

1999

PARTS & ACCESSORJES FLIGHT CONNECTIONS, INC. PTT [I

TEXAS

weekends. www.kite-enterprises.co1n

So you ve got your 1'2, NOW WHAT? Ask about our P2 PLUS program. This program is designed around the huge NEED for pilocs to CONTINUE in EDUCATION and SKILL development. Special skills and education include: judging conditions on launch, launching tactics, turn coordination, 360's, spot landing tactics, big ears, speed system, top landings, side hill landings, ground handling, highwind techniques, mountain Aying, ridge and thermal SOARING! DON T take shortcuts with aviation! FLY for LIFE and LOVE every minute of it! POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN PARAGLIDING PO Box 616 Draper UT 84020 (801) FLY-AWAY email scotty@poinrofrhemouncain.com www.pointofthemountain.com

RAVEN SKY SPORTS - Largest and most popular in the Midwest. Training hills and winch cowing for paragliders. Sales & Service' PO Box 10 I, Whitewater WI 53190. (414) 473-8800, brad@hanggliding.com

• New and Improved (not shown) • Water/Dust Resistant Push Button • Field Replaceable Finger Switch • Heavier Gauge Wire/Improved Plugs • Increased Strain Relief at ALL Joints Introductory price $89.95. Extra finger switch $14.95 w/purchase. Dealer inquiries welcome. Call (913) 2687946. MC/Visa. Visit our website at www.flightconn.com HAVE EXTRA EQUIPMENT - That you don't !mow 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.

See North Carolina.

SOUTHERN SKIES - Serving rhe SOUTHEAST, 1 hour from Virginia state line. MOUNTAIN FLYING and POWERED PARAGLIDING. (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERN SKIES.NET WASHINGTON DIXON'S AIRPl.AY PARAGLIDING- #1 School for 1997 & 1998. This Northwest training center is located on the Eastern side of the Cascades where the weather is dry and beautiful! This 1,600 acre private Aighc 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 micromcteorology. Great new and used inventory. Specialized clinics including the CAGE and BACKPACK MOTORS. One hour from the CHElAN BUTTE. On-site climbing wall, skiing, mouncain biking, etc. Dave Bridges, US National Champion says, "Dixon's students are extremely well-trained and competcnc pilots." Dixon's Paragliding in Washington and Arizona (appointments recommended), 8101 Hay Canyon Road, Cashmere WA 98815. (509) 782-5543. www.paraglide.com

Windsok. Made of 1. 5 oz. ripstop nylon, UV treated, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Available colors fluorescent pink/yellow or Auorescent pinlJwhite. $39.95 (+$4.75 S/H). Send to USHGA Windsok, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330, (71 9) 632-8300, fax (719) 632-6417. VISA/MC accepted. MINI VARIO- World's smallest, simplest vario! Clips to helmet or chinstrap. 200 hours on batteries, 0-18,000 ft., fast response and 2 year warranty. Great for paragliding too. ONLY $169. Mallmcc, PO Box 15756, Sanca Ana CA, 92735. (714) 966-1240, www.mallettec.com

DON'T LEAVE YOUR GROUND-BOUND EQUIPMENT SITTING IN THE GARAGE. SELL IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS.

PICCOLO PLUS $390 made. (303) 347-8995.

5 altimeters, memory, Swiss

PARAGLIDING: THE COMPLETE GUIDE - By Noel Whittall. The most complete guide to paragliding on the marker. Over 100 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) 6.32-6417, or order from our web site www.ushga.org SOARING - Monthly magazine of The Soaring Society of America, Inc. Covers all aspects of soaring Aight. Full membership $55. Info. kit with sample copy $.3. SSA, P.O. Box 2100, Hobbs, NM 88241. (505) 392-1177. VIDEOS

DO YOU WANT TO HIKE with your paraglider and nor feel like a pack mule? The SKY TREK is the solution. A new backpack design with a removable suspension that transfers the weight to your hips yet still allows for storing in a harness. $179+$6 shipping, MC/Visa. Guaranteed. In stock. Free brochure. Critter Mountain Wear (970) 349-9326, email crittcrlihrestedbutte.net www.crittermtnwear.com

VARIO KIT $70 - Soar with your hand made vario! Hiryu Mfg. http://home.att.ne.jp/red/FLY, fax: 011-8143-279-4627 Japan. BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Eastcoast Paragliding Center is looking for paragliding instructors to join its team. For info call Lars Linde at (908) 747-7845. PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTOR WANTED - For growing paragliding f)!'ogram. Raven Sky Sports (414) 47.3-8800.

FLY HARD: Viking Films newest release. Rob Whittall, Chris Santacroce & a vintage Buick convertible foll of paraglidcrs. Outrageous Aying at several west coast flying sites. Meet HG acrobatics champion Mitch McAleer along the way. Excellent rock soundtrack, professionally filmed & edited $35.95. POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN by l'ast Coast, hg/pg action at this Utah mecca $29. PARAGLIDE: THE MOVIE by Viking Films. Rock-n-roll world class competition at Owens Valley. Professionally filmed & edited $35. 95. Call or fax USI !GA (719) 6.32-8300, fax (719) 632-6417, please add +$4 domestic s/h (+$5 for two or more videos). Grear to impress your friends or for those socked-in days. STARTING PARAGLIDING - Paul Hamilton has masterminded a perfect introductory paragliding video. Informative & spectacular. Techniques & precision flying that is Dixons trademark, puts you right in the middle of a typical Airplay training program. lmportalll classroom discussions, close-up shots of ground handling techniques, unique on-board camera shoes, including a superb tandem flight thousands of feet over Chelan Butte. ,28 minutes, $29.95 (plus $4 s/h). Order by phone (520) 526-4579, by email: paraglide@paraglide.com or mail check to Airplay, PO B 2626, Flagstaff AZ 86003. See www.paraglide.com MISCELLANEOUS

PUBLICATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS INTRODUCING ~ The Official Soaring Center Log Book, from winds alofc to repack log, it has it all, only $9 plus $2s/h. Dealers/schools welcome. We can put your logo on the cover. Call for details. (888) 944-5433 or email HBC3@aol.com

ARGENTINA PARAGLll)]NG TOURS - Three different Aying sites, 14 days all inclusive $1,300. Contact Condor Paragliding Adventures: gcondor@lycosmail.com VIDEOS, BOOKS & APPAREL - Call USI-IGA for your Merchandise order form (719) 632-8300, fax (719) 6.32-6417, email: ushga@ushga.org, www.ushga.org

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. !'hone nurnber=2 words, PO Box=2 words, weight range i.e. I 37-185lbs=2 words, web site or email address=.) words. MINIMUM AD CHARGE $5.00. A fee of' $15.00 is charged for each line art logo and $25.00 for each photo. LINEART & PHOTO SIZE NO LARGER THAN 1.75" X 2.25". Please underlio.e w9rds to be in bold print. Special layouts of tabs are $25.00 per column inch. AD DEADLINES: March 20th is the deadline for the May/June issue. Please make checks payable to USI-ICA. Send to: PAR/I.GLIDING MAGAZINE, Classified Advertising, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330 (719) 6.32-8.300 or fax (719) 6.32-6417, email jjelgarr@ushga.org with your Visa or Mastercard.

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Adventure Productions .................. 5 Aerolight USA/APC0 ................. 59 Airwave .... ,.... ,.. , .......................... 3 5 Aspen Paragliding ......................... 6 Brauniger ,, .................................... 5 Canadian Paragliding .................. 34 Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ......... 51 Edel ....................................... 20,21 Firebird America ............... 29,30,31 Flight Design/NAPL ............. 23,24 Fly Products ........ 34 Flytec, ..... ,................................... 41 FreeX , ...... ,... , ,,... ,, ,.... , ,... ,,, ,. ,. , ,,. ,... 2 Gruppo Adesso .......................... .40 Hall Brothers .................. , ... 15 Mojo's Gear .... 5 Nova ................................. 4l Pro Design .................... Back Cover Sky Dog Publications .................. 15 Soaring Center ............................ 19 Sport Aviation Publications ........... 9 Sup' Air ... ,.,,.,.,,,, .. ,,,,., .. ,,,, ........... 51 Thermal Tracker 15 USHGA .................... 9,11,18,51,54 West Coast Paragliding 7 Wills Wing .. .42 oo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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PARAGLIDING

1998 Paragliding Accident Summary by Paul Klemond ere is a summary of the paragliding accidents reported in 1998. The purpose of this summary is to share factual information and interpretations that will help pilots improve their decision-making in order to prevent future accidents. According to the most recent membership survey, five out of six paragliding accidents in 1998 were never reported. We need you to start sending in reports about your accident or incident, or one that you witnessed. Reports are vital if we are to learn from these experiences, improve our practices, and avoid future incidents. If you send in an accident report, USHGA will send you a coupon worth five dollars on any USHGA merchandise order. To obtain an accident form, check the USHGA Web site at www.ushga.org, or phone (719) 632-8300. USHGA received reports on 31 accidents that resulted in an injury or fatality, and four non-injury incidents occurring in the U.S. during 1998. This is a small number that probably detracts from the accuracy of the numbers in this summary. PHASE OF FLIGHT Here is a breakdown of the 29 accidents showing the proportion that occurred in each phase of flight: Kiting Launching In-Flight Landing

6% 23% 26% 45%

Kiting accidents are those in which the pilot is clipped in but does not intend to leave the ground. These usually involve unintended takeoff while kiting on a slope, or the pilot falling and being dragged. Launching accidents are those in which the pilot initiates a launch but does not leave the ground, or in which the pilot does leave the ground but has an accident within 10 seconds, more or less. The most common launch accident was a collapse during or immediately after takeoff. There MARCH/APRIL

1999

are two causes: marginal conditions in which flight should not have been attempted, and incorrect or insufficient piloting input to prevent loss of control. Marginal conditions were sometimes detectable on launch, and were a factor in 16% (one out of every six accidents). In-flight accidents are those in which the pilot launched successfully and did not intend to land, but lost control of the paraglider during flight. Possible causes or factors include: aerobatics, collapses, fog, mid-air collision, and more. Aerobatics were a factor in 10% of this year's accidents, including one fatality. Reserve deployments nearly always happen in flight (as opposed to during launching or landing). There were two deployments reported this year. There were many deployments that were not reported, though they are still very uncommon. Landing accidents involve any situation in which the pilot has decided to land, and the intended landing is imminent. Pilot error is the number one cause or factor in landing accidents, but other common causes and factors include low-level turbulence and hazardous terrain obstacles. Landing accidents also include top-landings and situations in which the pilot loses the ability to land in an intended LZ and is forced to land in an unplanned location. NATURE OF INJURIES Here is a breakdown showing the nature of injuries sustained in all paragliding accidents. Note that in some accidents the pilot sustained more than one of these types of injury. Head Arm Back Pelvis Thigh Knee Tib/Fib Ankle Foot Fatal Other

0% 14% 14% 9% 6% 9% 3% 14% 14% 11 % 6%

QUALIFICATIONS OF INJURED PILOTS Pilots of all skill levels are injured in accidents every year. Here is last year's breakdown by rating:

Student Beginner (P 1) Novice (P2) Intermediate (P3) Advanced (P4) Master (P5) Tandem Instr. (T3) Unrated/Unknown

Accidents

% ofPilots With Rating

6% 17% 29% 11% 11% 3% 14% 3%

NIA 5% 39% 27% 25% 4%

NIA NIA

Keep in mind that very few pilots reported their accidents, so the above data may be skewed in that pilots of certain experience levels may be more or less likely to report their accidents. For example, beginners may or may not know that accidents should be reported. The opposite skew is also possible, at all rating levels. INSTRUCTION Twenty-six percent of reported accidents occurred during instruction. These accidents occurred during all phases of flight, and shared most of the same preventable causes as non-instruction accidents. Many known accidents that occurred during instruction were not reported. Instructors must realize the following: ICP administrators do not have access to accident reports. Few or no students are familiar enough with the USHGA to even know that accidents should be reported, much less how to report them. Even an anonymous accident report is better than no report at all. Reporting accidents is vital to USHGA for identifying and correcting deficiencies in the paragliding instructional program. FATALITIES Four known paragliding fatalities occurred in the U.S. in 1998. This rate has remained flat over the past couple of years, during a period of significant growth in participation. Two of the four fatalities involved advanced pilots flying competition gliders, also consistent with past years. The decision to fly a competition glider remains the

single most significant factor in preventable paragliding fatalities. One fatality involved a low-altitude mid-air collision at a ridgesoaring site. Fatalities By Year 1998 4 1997 4 4 1996 1995 2 1994 1 1993 6 3 1992 1991 4 1990 Special thanks to Steve Roti for keeping track of these data for many years. TANDEM ACCIDENTS Five tandem accidents were reported in the U.S. last year. Two of these injured only

the passenger, two injured only the pilot, and one injured both pilot and passenger. All reported tandem injuries required hospital visits. Nineteen ninety-eight saw the first known deployment of a reserve parachute in a tandem emergency. This occurred during a Tl training flight. The pilot sustained a minor cut. The passenger (instructor) was unharmed. Tandem pilot certification requires an Advanced or Master rating. Tandem paragliding is in general more difficult than flying solo.

number of accidents that occur in this sport each year. Learning from experience is critical. The accident reporting program is critical if we are to learn from experience. Everyone would like to see more useful information. For example, we should be comparing our accident rates to those of other countries, and learning from the safest programs. This is a volunteer-run program. If you would like to volunteer, please contact the USHGA at (719) 632-8300.

ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT In my very subjective opinion, and after reading all of the reports several times, I conclude that pilot error played some part in at least 77% (24 of the 31) reported accidents. This is only useful in that it tells us we should be able to greatly reduce the

Paul Klemond is the volunteer chair ofthe USHGA Paragliding Accident Review Committee, and can be reached by e-mail at paul@kurious.org. Ill

Get $5 for your Acc,irh1nt Aeport ! 1

"It was a close call, but I didn't actually get hurl, so no accident reporl. is needed." Truth: If other pilots can learn from your close caH or incident, please report it!

Myth:

"I saw it happen, but it's up to the victim to reporl. the accident," or "Somebody else will reporl. it." Truth: 9 out of 10 accidents are never reported. Witnesses' reports are often the most accurate.

Myth:

Report a paragliding accident, and USHGA will give you a $5.00 Coupon good towards anyUSHGA Merchandise order!

Myth: "If I reporl. my accident, everyone will think I'm a loser." Truth: AH accident reports are confidential, An anonymous report is better than no report. Other pilots can learn a lot from your incident, without knowing your name. Myth: "If I reporl. my or my student's accident, my instructor cerl.ification will be revoked." Truth: AH accident reports are confidential. Administrators do not have access to them. If you or your students have a lot of accidents, USHGA can help improve your safety. Myth: "I don't have an accident reporl.ing form, and getting one is a hassle." Truth: It's way easy to get the form:

Thanks! USHGA Paragliding Accident Committee

PARAGLIDING

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