USHGA Paragliding September/October 1999 by US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association

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Super Fly, Inc.• Phone: (801) 255-9595 • Fax: (801) 256-9898 576 West 8360 South • Sandy, UT 84070 • E-mail: info@super-fly.com

PARAGLIDING • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 1999

AIR MAIL

RATINGS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

FEAR AND L OATHING AT THE

1999 W ORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

INCIDENT REPORTS

by Paul Klemond

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS

UPDATE

THE MECCA: POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN, UTAH a,ticle and photos by Debbie Webb Halbach

DISCIAI.MER OF WARRANTIES rN PUBUCATIONS: The material pre· sented here is published as part of an information dissemlnation service for

USHGA members. 'I11e

PILOT REPORT:THE EDEL PROMISE

COVER: Philippe Renaudin ofSup'Air USA launching at Chaine des Fizes, Chamonix Valley, French Alps. Photo by Franrois Roux. SEPT E MBER/O CTO BER

by Kari Castle

GLIDER REvIEw:THE GIN Bal.ERO article and photos by Steve Roti

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USHGA makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability concerni ng the validlcy of any advice, opinion or recommendation expressed in the material. All individuals relying upon ihc material do SO al their OWD risk. Copyright © 1999 United States Hang Gliding Assn., lnc. ,All rights reserved 1.0 Pamglicli11g and individual con tributors.

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, John Greynald, Gregg Lawless. REGION 4: Mark Ferguson, Jim Zeise!. REGION 5: Frank Gillette. REGION 6: Jeff Sinason. REGION 7: Bill Bryden. REGION 8: Doug Sharpe. REGION 9: l'ete 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 l'agen. HONORARY DIRECTORS: Randy Adams, 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 (NAA). The United States Hang Gliding Association Inc. is an air sports organization affiliated with the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) which is the official representative of the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), of the world governing body for sport aviation. The NAA, which represents the U.S. at FAI meetings, has delegated to the USHGA supervision of FAl-related paragliding activities such as record attempts and competition sanctions. PARAGLIDING magazine is published for paragliding sport enthusiasts to create further interest in the sport, and to provide an educational forum to advance paragliding methods and safety. Contributions are welcome. Anyone is invited to contribute articles, photos and illustrations concerning paragliding activities. If the material is to be returned, a stamped, self-addressed return envelope must be enclosed. Notification must be made of submission to other paragliding publications. PARAGLIDING magazine reserves the right to edit contributions where necessary. The Association and publication do not assume responsibility for the material or opinions of contributors. PARAGLIDING editorial offices: 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy., Suite A-256, 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 Paragliding), ($65 non-U.S.); subscription rates only are $26.00 ($32 non-U.S.). Changes of address should be sent six weeks in advance, including name, USHGA number, previous and new address, and a mailing label from a recent issue. PARAGLIDING (ISSN 1089-1846) is published bimonthly Uan./Feb., March/April, May/June, July/Aug., 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 POSTAGF 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.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

TORREY PINES HISTORY Dear Editor, In the May/June issue of Paragliding, Mr. Richard Thompson wrote an article about the Torrey Pines Gliderport in California and its history. I applaud his bringing to light the efforts of David Jebb, who has worked with the community to make Torrey Pines better for all users. However, I would like to make some clarifications concerning Mr. Thompson's account of the history of Torrey which I have been researching since 1991 when my father and I initiated the paperwork to make Torrey Pines a historical site at the city, state and national levels. It was suggested that Octave Chanute wrote about a flying site, Torrey Pines, in his 1894 manuscript, Progress in Flying Machines. Although Chanute does make reference to San Diego as a particularly suitable location for the testing of flying machines, he never directly makes reference to Torrey Pines in his book. The author also comments, "Octave knew about Torrey because of another guy, John F. Montgomery, who actually flew the Torrey Pines area 11 years before Octave's book was published." Actually, John Joseph (not F.) Montgomery is believed to have become the first American to fly in a heavier-than-air flying machine in 1883 on the rim of Otay Mesa (according to the National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Arthur Dunning Spearman's biography of John J. Montgomery and other sources in the literature). This location is south of Torrey Pines by approximately 20 miles. Montgomery never flew at Torrey; in fact, the first documented glider flights in the lift at Torrey occurred in 1930. It is true chat Montgomery and Chanute were in contact with one another in the late 1800's, but they never met in San Diego, nor is there any evidence to suggest they ever discussed the Torrey Pines Gliderport. It was further suggested chat Charles Lindbergh and Orville Wright flew at Torrey Pines. While it is true that Charles Lindbergh soared at Torrey during a flight in 1930, he did not take off and land at what is now the Torrey Pines Gliderport. His takeoff was from Mount Soledad, some four miles to the south, and he landed on the beach just south of Del Mar, some three miles to the north. In between, he became the first pilot to utilize the lift at Torrey Pines in a sailplane and set a regional distance record (not a U.S. soaring record). This was in early 1930, not 1928. His wife, Anne, became the first woman in the U.S. to receive a First Class Glider License by soaring from Mount Soledad to what is now the Scripps Institution of

1999

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Oceanography. Anne never visited Torrey Pines, nor did she fly in the lift. If Orville Wright ever flew at Torrey it was only as a result of his signature being on the licenses of many of the sailplane pilots in the 1930' s. Orville's signature is mentioned lacer in the article in conjunction with one of the only surviving glider pilots of chat era, Bud Perl (correct spelling). Finally, the author suggested that there is no other soaring site in America with such a long, well-documented history. It should be pointed out chat there are a number of other famous soaring sites in the U.S. dating back to the early days of Torrey Pines. Elmira, New York comes to mind, with its fabulous and well-documented history. Unfortunately, I think I have myself to blame for some of the inaccuracies. When making the original documentation for the National Soaring Museum's National Soaring Landmark program (a distinction bestowed on Torrey in the early 1990's), I made a cursory survey of the literature in a rapid fashion. We were pressed to get a chronology to the program committee as quickly as possible. The literature was fraught with errors (as I was to find out later) some of which made their way into Paragliding either through a copy of my original document or through Mr. Thompson's research. Since 1992 I have been working to develop an accurate history of gliding and soaring in San Diego between 1883 and 1945, in the form a book that will hopefully be finished before the end of 1999. I hope the readers of your magazine will look to this book for a more correct and informative assessment of the history of Torrey Pines and the surrounding region. I will let you know when it is available. In order to save Torrey Pines we need to be clear and accurate about its history, so people will believe us when they visit this soaring Mecca. As it turns out, one of the most historic things about Torrey is chat it is one of the only sites in the world where paragliders, hang gliders, sailplanes, and radio-controlled model sailplanes can share the same airspace simulcaneously. This is not only a tribute to its history but to the leadership and cooperation exhibited by David Jebb and members of the Torrey Pines Soaring Council. I applaud their efforts and the pioneers in all forms of motorless flight who flew at Torrey in the past, as well as chose who continue this tradition. Gary B. Fogel Historian, Associated Glider Clubs of Southern California Member, National Soaring Museum La Jolla, California

PARAGLIDING

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 Michael Champlin World X-C 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) 447-6234, fax (310) 4476237, brettonwoods@email.msn.com, www.keyinc.com/wsc/

FUN FLYING SEPT. 25-26: Fly-N-Bike Festival, Chelan Butte, Washington. Annual joint Northwest hang glider and paraglider event. Fun-flying with various time and strategic target tasks. The 10-mile scenic biking task is optional and can involve a non-flying team partner. Saturday evening dinner for all. Extra meal ticket for family and friends is available. 8:30 AM Saturday meeting and registration at Chelan Falls Park, Chelan Falls Road. All proceeds used by Chelan Flyers club to maintain and enhance Chelan Butte flying site. For information about accommodations call the Lake Chelan Chamber at l-8004Chelan. Pre-registration $30. Contact: Chelan Flyers, Marilyn Raines, (509) 6822251, fax 682-4112. 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, "flow-through" ramps, a variety 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) 9944377, AppaPhoto@aol.com (hang gliding), or Ben Thomas (336) 723-0824,

k4zep@bellsouth.net (paragliding). Web site linked to USHGA. OCT. 9-11: Powered Paragliding Fly-In and beach party, Baja, Mexico, one hour south of San Diego, CA. X-C on the Baja coast, world record attempt for number of powered paragliders in the air, beach barbecue and campouc. Beach house accommodations. Bring your equipment or demo ours. Contact: Brent or Brian, Airsports Baja, Ol 152-615-50174. DEC. 27-31: 1999 Mauna Kea Fly-In. Celebrate the new millennium on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hang gliding and paragliding pilots welcome. Contact: Achim Hagemann, Advanced Air Technologies, P.O. Box 797, Mm. View, HI 96771 (808) 968-6856, tofly@excite.com.

CLINICS/MEETINGS/TOURS THROUGH NOV. 1999: "Owens Valley at its Best" Cross-Country. Thermal guide to the Owens Valley with Kari Castle. One- to nine-day adventures. Private one-on-one flying, guide service and instruction also available. Hike 'n' fly the peaks of the Sierras and White Mes. Contact Kari for more information: karicastle@telis.org (760) 872-2087. SEPT. 24-26: Thermal Clinic. OCT. 2-3: Mtn. Flying Clinic. OCT. 16-17: Tandem Clinic. OCT. 29-31, NOV. l: Instructor Training Seminar. NOV. 6-7: Instructor Reevaluation Ctinic. By Ken Hudonjorgensen and Two-Can Fly Paragliding at Point of the Mountain, and Utah mountain sites. Ken Hudonjorgensen is the senior paragliding instructor in Utah at the Point of the Mountain, held the Utah cross-country record for two years and the Utah cup for three. He is one of the first Master-rated pilots, one of a handful of Tandem and IP administrators in the U.S., and holds the best official safety record in the entire U.S. Contact: Ken Hudonjorgensen, Two-Can Fly Paragliding, 474 E. Tonya Dr., Sandy UT 84070 (801)572-3414, khudonj@uswest.net. SEPT. 25-27: Basic Instructor IP Clinic, by Phil Pohl, Bend, OR. Contact: (541) 3883869. OCT. 21-24: 1999 Fall USHGA Board of Directors Meeting, Colorado Springs. Contact: USHGA Headquarters (719) 6328300, ushga@ushga.org.

OCT. 22-24: Fifth Baja Thermal Clinic, La Salina Ridge. Air California Adventure and Torrey Pines Gliderport proudly sponsor the most successful thermal clinic in the Northern Hemisphere. $225 includes three days of flying, camping site fees, breakfast, study materials and after-hour fun and relaxation. Contact: David Jebb (858) 452-9858. NOV. THROUGH FEB. 2000: Ecuadorian Adventure Tours with Kevin Lee of Thermal Tracker Paragliding. Fly and explore the High Andes of Ecuador. Soar coastal beaches for hours. Fly in the sun this winter. Bring your camera. Contact: Thermal Tracker Paragliding, (541) 955-1737, Thermaltracker@bigfoot.com. NOV. 12-21, NOV, 21-30: X-C in the Atacama, Chile, with professional guide and paragliding instructor Mike Eberle. The best X-C flights anywhere and a cultural experience you will fall in love with. Contact: (509) 925-5565. DEC. 11-12: Paragliding IP Renewal with Ed Pitman, San Bruno, CA. Contact: Bob Ost at fly@best.com or (650) 588-1975. JAN. 2000: Fifth Annual Winter Paragliding Adventure in Mexico, with Dave Bridges and Chris Santacroce. Consistent summer-like flying at a variety of sites around Mexico City: Valle de Bravo, Tisca, Malinalco. Good thermaling and excellent X-C potential. Comprehensive thermal and X-C clinics, instruction in active flying and basic maneuvers. P2 rating with 50 flights minimum. Attend for one week or all three. Make reservations soon. Contact: Chris Santacroce (801) 255-9595, chris@firebirdusa.com, or Dave Bridges (970) 925-7625, fly@aspen.com, Aspen Paragliding, 426 S. SpringSt.,Aspen, CO 81611, www.aspen.com/ paragliding/. 2000: Flying in Brazil 2000. Wonderful warm weather, flying in an exotic setting. Be part of the Adventure Sports trip to Govenador Valadarez, Brazil. Experienced instructors and guides. Tal(e side-trips to Carnival or any of the beautiful beaches. 12 days, $1,200 for paragliders, $1,400 for hang gliders. Includes room with breal<last and lunch, ride to launch, retrieval and guided tour. Save $100; register by Nov. 15, 1999. Contact: (775) 883-7070, www.pyramid.net/ advspts.

PARAGLIDING

i n

"The ARCUS is the best all around paraglider that I have ever flown . It has it all ; speed , g lide , sink rate , great handling , light brake pressure, e x cellent thermalling characteristics, quality of materials and workmanship, as we ll as superior stability. There is no need for a pilot to even own a DHV-2 or DHV 2 -3 to get performance any more. Everybody from new P -2 's to veteran P-4 's will be happy with th is glider." Wally Anderson Merl in Flight School

"I found the performance and flying enjoyment of Swing's new ARCUS bey ond m y e x pectations. Swing's ARCUS has raised the bar with this newly released entry level glider. All the speed, performance and looks of a performance glider, in a DHV 1 paraglider. Any student choosing this glider will likely wear it out, rather than sell it off for greater performance as they progress down the line . Advanced p ilots wil l rediscover the sheer fun of safe flying without feeling o v erly restricted. My DHV 2 -3 is going to have to share air time with the ARCUS as I ended up buying one for myself. " Rob von Zabern Paragliding Magazine, .July 99

"I never e x pected a beginning paraglider could have such a fantastic combination of great thermall ing performance , eye-watering speed capab ility, rock-solid stability, and carefree maneuvering . The ARCUS is my idea of a flying dream come true ." Mark "Forger" Stucky Paragliding Magazine , .July 99

LU~

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Something Borrowed, Something Blue by Peter Reagan 'm getting more reports now. Many accidents are still unreported, but I wish to express my gratitude that many people are telling their stories. I think that so far we are experiencing a good year when it comes to accidents, but bad weather in many parts of the west has permitted less flying than in the past. We have had the first fatality of the season, a strange and extremely unfortunate one.

DESERT, MIXED RIDGE AND THERMAL SITE A relatively inexperienced pilot in his early 40's was flying in glass-off conditions when he sank out below a freeway in the area. His landing options were somewhat complicated by a canal with a swift current in the vicinity. The landing was unwitnessed. He landed in the canal or next to it and his wing fell into the water. He was able to get free of his harness by undoing the quickrelease buckles, but became entangled in the lines and was pulled into a siphon under the freeway and trapped by a grate at the other end. He was freed 15 minutes later but had drowned, leaving a wife and small children. This tragic and sobering accident is quite unusual, but it underscores a more common hazard. By far the most critical issue was the pilot's judgment concerning his landing approach. It is impossible to overstate the danger posed by moving water, even a small amount of it. Rescuers who removed the pilot's equipment from the siphon estimated that it weighed more than three hundred pounds. DO NOT LAND IN MOVING WATER! Anywhere else is safer. It is possible that target fixation occurred here. Always look where you want to go, not at a place you want to avoid. This seems simple, but we often forget. If landing in turbulent water is

inevitable, get out of your harness prior to impact (don't jump too high, perhaps three to eight feet) and let your equipment fly away. Once in the water your wing becomes your mortal enemy. Don't try to retrieve your gear. Do not expect to be saved by your hook knife, although it's much better to have one than not. If you are trying to rescue another pilot in moving water be extremely careful not to become entangled, and generally it's far preferable to have a hook knife in hand. Your own life is at risk. DESERT MIXED RIDGE AND THERMAL SITE This is from an intermediate pilot with 27 hours of experience who brought some friends along to the launch area: "A child and his father and brother were standing just behind and downhill of me. I tried to launch in wind that was too strong, and was pulled up and back by the wing. The wind was actually cross and pulled the wing down the hill and back over the family. At a time when I should have been grabbing the C's and pulling the glider down, I was dodging bodies. I hit the seven-year-old just before I hit the ground. I was dragged for about 50 yards over many rocks, acquiring bruises, abrasions, a cut in my elbow and a broken thumb. The child fell forward, breal<.ing both bones in his right arm." Fueling the debate about the best highwind launch technique, and issues surrounding decisions not to launch, this accident also poignantly illustrates how critical it is to warn bystanders to keep clear. We may not really appreciate how much and how unpredictably we move around during a launch. Non-pilots have absolutely no concept of the power of the forces we routinely subject ourselves to, and the risk to themselves as well as to us.

DESERT THERMAL SITE A 35-year-old beginner pilot inflated his wing in thermally conditions and was kiting prior to launch when a gust lifted him momentarily and caused him to fall to the side. He continued to kite until a larger gust lifted him 50 feet and spun the glider 180 degrees, facing it into the hill. The rotation was opposite the pilot's stance on the ground and he ended up with the risers twisted 360 degrees. He untwisted 360 degrees, slammed on the brakes, and impacted the very steep hill and rolled to his right. He suffered multiple complex fractures of both ankles. Thermals are really wonderful in the air. On the ground they are dangerous. This event may well have been caused by a dust devil. Kiting in thermally conditions is asking for trouble. Get away from the ground! Finally, if the risers are twisted, it is often possible to steer the glider before one untwists. This is a counterintuitive skill that is almost impossible to practice, but that can save one's neck Conceivably the pilot had time to recover. DESERT THERMAL SITE A 55-year-old P3 pilot flying a DHV 1-2 glider, with an air-bag harness, launched midday in thermal conditions and climbed 100 feet over launch into the house thermal. He experienced a 50% asymmetric collapse and overbraked the good side, inducing a negative spin. He impacted the bushes, breaking his foot. A witness felt that the pilot appeared to panic and may have done better with weight shift, light brake, and pumping out the collapse. With bigger collapses it may be impossible to control the turn or spiral, and the absolute first priority must be to keep the good side flying. This is especially true with higherperformance wings. Don't overbrake. YET ANOTHER DESERT RIDGE AND THERMAL SITE A 60-year-old beginner pilot soaring 20 feet over launch in light thermals, complicated by wake turbulence, suffered a 50% collapse, took no action to steer the glider, and was turned toward the hill. The impact resulted in femoral and pelvic fracPARAGLIDING

tures and hospitalization. Collapses near the ground are one of our more challenging problems. The simplest advice is to stay away from the ground. Unfortunately, we can't always do that. It is very helpful to practice performing the smoothest, most secure recoveries possible, but it is even more important to fly fast enough and not turn too sharply when dose to the ground. AB the saying goes, "The superior pilot uses superior judgment to avoid needing to use his superior skill."

MOUNTAIN THERMAL SITE, JUNE A very experienced advanced pilot, roughly 45 years old, was flying a new DHV 2 glider at noon in very strong, thermally conditions. During the previous half hour he had experienced minor deflations and some extreme pitch and yaw, then he found himself in strong sink exceeding 800 feet per minute. At roughly 140 feet AGL he let go of the brakes to push on the A-risers for greater speed to escape the sink. He experienced a 75% asymmetric deflation and began a right spiral. The glider reinflated after one 360° turn but was locked in the spiral. The pilot landed hard in some scrub brush, never having attempted to deploy his reserve. He suffered contusions and vertebral compression fractures without neurological damage. This accident raises a number of important issues. Some are prosaic. It is easy to point out that dropping the brakes in rowdy air is hazardous. Glider manuals all underscore the risks of using the speed sys-

tern at low altitude, and hitting the A-risers is a step beyond that. But in this case the pilot may well have felt that he needed to take risks to escape the extreme ground suck he was experiencing, although his sink rate was similar to that after a reserve deployment, and a PLF maneuver would probably have prevented significant injury had the glider stayed under control. Behind these issues, however, is the basic question of whether the conditions were safe enough to fly. There is an analogy here with the question of how twitchy one's glider should be. Strong, midday conditions are riskier than glass-off conditions or earlier morning air. Although experienced and expert pilots are safer in midday thermals than beginners are, we are all at greater risk in this kind of air. The new glider compounded the risk. When we choose to fly in strong conditions we need to specifically consider this greater risk, and decide each time whether to accept it. AB the old saying goes, "It's always better to be on the ground wishing you were in the air, than in the air wishing you were on the ground." If we do fly in such conditions we need to fly extra cautiously, with good ground clearance and conservative maneuvers. AB pilots explore the edges of their personal flying envelope it may not be possible to always prevent these kinds of accidents, but we can strive to decrease their frequency. Finally, I will share this somewhat spooky thought from Gail Graddon in

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Hall llrothcrs, P.O. Box IO I 0- P, Morgan, UT 84050, USA Mastcrcard/VISA/C.0.D. Phone (801) 829-3232 !'ax (80 I) 829-6349, hallbros@carthlink.net

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

Oregon. How many different bad outcomes can you think of? Gail relates: "The flights yesterday were great, but I did have a moment of fear on launch. I had my wing laid out ready to go as another pilot was getting ready to fly. The wind was strong and some big thermals were coming through at times. AB the other pilot took off, his feet got caught in my lines. Fortunately, with some very fast thinking and faster footwork he got his feet free. I hadn't really considered the potential dangers of this occurrence before yesterday." Paul Klemond comments: "At crowded launch sites, with good lift, it's important to lay out and preflight your glider well away from any actual launching activity. Clip in and gather your wing, then move to where you will launch. If you can't lay out your bunched-up wing while dipped in, ask for assistance. Don't rush, but do minimize the time you spend clipped in and laid out. In this configuration you are subject to numerous bad things (other pilots, dust devils, gusts, rain, delaying fellow pilots, etc.) and just one good thing: launching. You'll be much better equipped to deal with the bad things if your wing is bunched up while you're dipped in. "A related note: Don't delay between dipping in one biner and the ocher. Dust devils have picked people up while dipped in with only one biner, and this is always worse than being dipped in with both." Thank you Gail, and thanks to all of you who are sending reports! We all benefit from them. Iii

1999

Thermal Tracker Aero-Sports 4226 Midway Ave., Grants Pass, OR 97527 "'ti!!"' thermaltracker@bigfoot.com

EDEL PINSTRIPE CLOTH ADVISORY del gliders manufactured with orange and bright pink "pinstripe" cloth have been shown to undergo accelerated UV deterioration. This cloth is identified by the black thread running the length of the panel, and "international" orange, pink and red colors. Pilots with Super Space, SuperSpace 2, Saber, Energy and Galaxy gliders manufactured from 1993 through 1996 are affected by this advisory. Typically, gliders have chis orange or pink pinstripe cloth top and bottom, or only on the "wing" design on the bottom surface. Pilots with Edel gliders manufactured with the orange or pink pinstripe cloth with more than 100 hours of exposure to sunlight are urged to send in their gliders for inspection to either: No Limits Paragliding, 3620 Wawona St., San Francisco, CA 94116 (415) 759-9011; or Edel Southwest Service Center, 29120 Melby Dr., Lake Elsinore, CA 92532 (909) 674-8844. In the past five years we have observed this cloth fading much more quickly than fabric of other colors, and structural problems may result with 200 to 300 hours of sunlight exposure. Gliders used at high altitude (over 10,000 feet above sea level) are exposed to nearly 40% more of the ultraviolet B that does damage to fabric. Pilots who regularly fly in the high mountains are especially urged to examine their gliders and contact us if they have gliders affected by chis notice. No Limits Paragliding (Bill Anderson) and Edel Southwest (Mitch McAleer) will inspect any glider with these fabrics at no charge. If you have any concerns about the Edel glider you are flying please call Bill or Mitch at the numbers listed above.

CONSUMER ADVISORY FIREBIRD G-SPORT AND GENESIS PARAGLIDERS t has come to our attention that some Firebird G-Sport and Genesis paragliders constructed with a fabric marked by pink color and black lines (pinstriped) may have the potential to undergo quicker than normal fabric degradation. As a precautionary measure, and in an

effort to conduct a thorough investigation into chis matter, Super Fly, Inc., serving as the current North American distributor and service center for Firebird Paragliders, hereby requests that paragliders matching the following three criteria be returned for inspection: Firebird G-Sport or Genesis, pink-black striped fabric (pinstriped). Send to: Super Fly, Inc., 576 W 8360 S., Sandy, UT 84070, (80 1) 255-9595, info@firebirdusa.com. Again, please note that chis is a precautionary measure being taken by Super Fly, Inc., not an action being taken by the manufacturer of said paragliders. Please contact Super Fly if you are unsure if your paraglider is constructed of the material in question. Note: Every paraglider should be returned for inspection every 50 hours/one year or as per the manufacturer's recommendations.

EDEL PROMISE AND PRIME TANDEM IN STOCK o Limits Paragliding and Edel Southwest have the new Edel Promise in stock. The Promise is DHV2, AFNOR Standard (aspect ratio 4.4 projected, 55 cells, min. speed 23 kph, max speed 46 kph, min. sink 1.1 m/sec.), and comes in sizes from extra small (60-80 kg hook-in) to extra large (100-125 kg hook-in) . The Promise replaces the Saber for the recreational pilot, and is a V-rib design with improved speed range, better securiry, excellent handling, and easy launch and ground handling characteristics. The Promise is the first glider developed for Edel by Michael Nessler, and has demonstrated great potential. Phil Hurst from Lake Tahoe has already flown the Promise 100 miles cross-country. The Promise is available in yellow, blue and Wac, in small, medium and large, with the other sizes by custom order. he Prime Tandem is also now in stock at No Limits Paragliding and Edel

Southwest. T he Prime is DHV 1-2, AFNOR Standard, with the following specs: area (flat) 42 m2, span (flat) 14.6 m, aspect ratio (flat) 5.1, chord length center profile 3.4 m, chord length stabilo 0.6 m, weight 10.7 kg, 57 cells, takeoff weight 140-210 kg, min. speed 22 km/hr., max speed 42 km/hr. , min. sink 1.1 m/sec. The Prime was designed as a tandem glider for the professional and experienced recreational pilot by Michael Nessler (see Cross Country magazine interview June/July 1999, pg. 8) and is constructed with V-rib technology. According to the manufacturer the glider is easy to launch and ground handle, handles in flight more easily than the Galaxy, thermals well, and has an improved glide ratio. Contact: No Limits Paragliding (4 15) 759-9011, or Edel Southwest (909) 6748844.

WORLD'S LIGHTEST WEIGHT HARNESS RECEIVES DHV CERTIFICATION

hin Red Line's "Scorched Earth" paragliding harness has edged out its Continued on page 28.

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

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(01/99)

RELEASE, WAIVER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT In consideration of the benefits to be derived from membership in the USHGA, (Pilot) 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: ft IDEIFINnu:>NS ~ 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. 1. "SPORTS INJURIES' means personal injury, bodily injury, death, property damage and/or any other personal or finandal 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" SPOl!TS INJIIRIES"means personal injury, bodily injury, death, property damage and/or any otlher personal or financial injury sustained by Pilot as well as personal injury, bodily injury, death, property damage and/or any other personal or finam::ial injury sustained by Pilot's parents 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. "RELEASED 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 P//ot'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 P//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 PAR1!CIPATES IN THE SPORT. "All persons involved" include, but are not limited to, spectators, hang glider and/or paraglider pilots, assistants, driven, 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. 8. I IFOIREVIEIR RELIEASIE AND DISCHARGE the IIElEASED 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 WILL NOT SUE OR MAKE A CLAIM against any of the RElEASEIJ PARTIESfor loss or damage on account of SPORTS INJURIES. If Iviolate this agreement by filing such a suit or making such a claim, Iwill pay all attorneys' fees and costs of the RELEASED PARTIES. D. I AGREE THAT this AGREEMENT shall be govemed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California. All disputes and matters whatsoever arising under, in connection with or incident to this Agreement shall be litigated, if at all, in and before a Court located in the State of California, U.S.A. to the exclusion of the Courts of any other State or Country. IE. SEVERABUUTY. If any part, article, paragraph, sentence or clause of this Agreement is not enforceable, the affected provision shall be curtailed and limited only to the extent necessary to bring it within the requirements of the law, and the remainder of the Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. IF. I REPRESENT TIHAT Pilotis at least 18 years of age, or, that I am the parent or legal guardian of Pilot and am making this agreement 011 behalf of myself and Pilot If I am the parent or legal guardian of Pilot, I AGREE TO INDEMNIFY AND REIMIHJRSE the RELEASED PARTIES for their defense and indemnity from any claim or liability in the event that /'!lot suffers SPORTS INJURIES as a result of Pilot's PARTICIPATION 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 IN PART BY THE ACnON, ~NACTION, OR NEGUGENCE OF THE RELEASED PARTIES, THE FULLEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. Ihave read, understand, and agree to the above RELEASE, WAIVER AND ASSUMPTION Of li'USK AGREEMENT. Adult Pilot's Ji{nilture

JigniltureofPilot's Parent or lepl Guarriiiln ifPilot under 19yeaf'I ofil/t.

Date

MMR 12-97

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

GOLD SAFE PILOT AWARDS BRUCE TRACY KEVIN BIERNACKI PHIL NERI

4TH DIAMOND SAFE PILOT AWARDS G IRMAKEROL CENAP KAHYAOGLU

5TH DIAMOND SAFE PILOT AWARDS JOHN TABOR

BEGINNER RATINGS Region l ALLISON, AARON: Portland, OR; L. Pindar/Over the Hill PG BENNETT, JEFFREY: Bothell, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG BETZ, TOM: Kirkland, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG BOGGS, ERIKA: Vancouver, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG BOWER, PETER: Seattle, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglidc Washington CANTRELL, DAVE: Aloha, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of Oregon CASTNER, DARREN: Oak Harbor, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG HANSEN, ANDREA: Fairbanks, AK; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders HOLT, STEVE: Portland, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of Oregon HORNER, CRAIG: Newcastle, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG INGRAM, SRY: Redmond, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG KOMMOSS, KLAUS: Sequim, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington KROIS, WILLIAM: Grants Pass, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG MITTELSTADT, KARL: Girdwood, AK; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG MURPHY, GARY: Mukilceo, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG NOVAKOVICH, STEVE: Anchorage, AK; B. Hamler/Golden Eagle PG OLSON, JOHN: Portland, OR; S. Rori/Mt. Bachelor PG PONDER, SANFORD: Redmond, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG RIDDERBUSCH, RON: Tillamook, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of OR ROSAUER, CHRIS: Girdwood, AK; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG ROSSBERG, CHRISTIAN: Elmira, OR; D. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG SCHECHTER, ROBERT: Portland, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of OR SCHRANTZ, PETER: Federal Way, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington SEABLOOM, THOMAS: Anchorage, AK; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG SMITH, WAYNE: Jacksonville, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG STIVERS, BRIAN: Marysville, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School STROOP, DOUGLAS: Anchorage, AK; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG TEMRES, LARRY: Port Angeles, WA; C. Kahyaoglu/Proflyght Hawaii TOLF, BRANDON: Lynnwood, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington VOORHIS, JOHN: Bellevue, WA; D White/Dixon's Airplay PG Region 2 ANDREWS III, WILLIAM: Fallon, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports BIRDWELL, ADDIE: Gardnerville, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports CHAMPAIGN, S DOUGLAS: St Helena, CA; K Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport COOLEY, BARBARA: Palo Alto, CA; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG DOLPHIN, JOY: Mill Valley, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All ELLERS, DAVID: San Mateo, CA; H. Rejmanek/Airtime of SF ESTRADA, ALBERTO: San Luis Obispo, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All GUBERMAN, DARRON: Emeryville, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School HOSCH, PATRICIA: Santa Clara, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell KABAI, IMRE: Foster City, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG LANG, ANTHONY: Las Vegas, NV; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

LAYTON, ERIC: Mill Valley, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All MEHLHAFF, ERIC: Berkeley, CA;]. Lucas/Glidell MILLER, JUSTIN: Geyserville, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School RASHED, AHMED: Berkeley, CA; K. Schlueter/Altus PG SOLTZ, DAVID: San Jose, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell WALLACE, MICHAEL: Monterey, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky YOUNG, KEVIN: San Pablo, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School Region 3 ALDER, ADAM: Fullerton, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG ALVI, SHAHBAZ: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport ANDERSON, CLINTON: San Diego, CA;]. Meyers/Airrek BARNES, THOMAS: San Diego, CA; A. Perham/Torrey Pines Gliderport BROWER, JOHN: Oceanside, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport CANU, MEHMET: Haiku, HI; I. Erol/Proflyght Hawaii PG CAPIAN, GREGG: San Diego, CA; A. Perham/Torrey Pines Gliderport DONSKOY, ERAN: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport FALARDEAU, JEAN-PIERRE: Santa Ana Hghts, CA; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG GARCIA, OSCAR: Los Angeles, CA; J. Williams/Air America PG GRASSO, PAUL: Fallbrook, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport GREER, RICK: Santa Barbara, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports HADLER, PHILIP: Los Angeles, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All HAEHN, PAMELA: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport HARDIN, JEFF: Fountain Valley, CA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HILGERMAN, ROBERT: Oxnard, CA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding HILLYER, CHRIS: Santa Barbara, CA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HIRSCH, BRIAN: Pasadena, CA; A. Chuculate/Adventure Wings HOSKINSON, JANETTE: San Diego, CA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG IMHOF, URS: La Jolla, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport JOHNSON, GREGORY: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport JOHNSON, NANCY: Encinitas, CA; A. Perham/Torrey Pines Gliderport KARNY, EYAL: I1vine, CA; M. DeBarros/Atmosphere PG KELSEY, RONN: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport LAMB, WARREN: Oak View, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports LAWRENCE, BRYN: Kamuela, HI; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MICHELMORE, DAVID: Kihei, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG MOLLER, KRISTOPHER: Agoura, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports OVERTON, RICHARD: San Diego, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG PANOV, VICTOR: Camarillo, CA; T. Nelson/Thermal Dynamics PG RABER,: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderporr SALUK, ALAN: San Diego, CA; A. Perham/Torrey Pines Gliderport SOLOMONSON, STAN: Encinitas, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport SPECKMAN, DAVID: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport STANIFORTH, JIM: Tehachapi, CA; Y. Bajulaz WOOD, MIKE: Honolulu, HI; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG Region4 ADELMAN, CHRIS: Durango, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG BELTZ, JOHN: Golden, CO; G. Ridgik/Parasofr PG BIGLER, OLIVER: Provo, UT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center BREEN N, THOMAS: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride BURLEND, MATT: Phoenix, AZ; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG CALLICOTT, DAIVD: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride CASTANARES, RODOLFO: Denver, CO; G. Banks/Parasofr PG CLARK, TOM: Basalt, CO;A. Palmaz/Aspen PG COZART, BECKY: Oro Valley, AZ; S. Horton/Alas De Arizona CSIZMAZIA, KIM: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG

DILIC, HASAN: Tucson, AZ; S. Horton/Alas De Arizona DOUGLAS, KEVIN: Minturn, CO; G. Kelley/Vail Valley PG ELAM, DARYL: Benson, AZ; G. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport GREEFF, RAYMOND: Riverton, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly HEINEMANN, JAN: Carbondale, CO; D. Bridges/Aspen PG ISON, SHANNON: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG JENKINS, WILLIAM: Boulder, CO; R. Kocurek/Crested Butte PG LASSON, CHAD: Provo, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MCGINLEY, KEVIN: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride MELLON, DAVID: Carbondale, CO; E. Pienaar/Aspen PG MIDDLETON, HARRY: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG 0 MALLEY, BRIAN: Englewood, CO; G. Kelley/Vail Valley PG ODUM, LANCE: Spanish Fork, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG PLUMMER, RAY: Sandy, UT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center SCHRECKENGOST, BRETT: Telluride, CO; S. Maclowry/Paraglide Telluride SCHUR, JAMES: Dolan Spgs, AZ; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits SHERWOOD, MIC: Oro Valley, AZ; S. Horton/Alas De Arizona TAYLOR, NATHAN: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG WALDROP, MEL: Aspen, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG WARD, SHANNON: Edwards, CO; G. Kelley/Vail Valley PG WIEDER, DAVID: Santa Fe, NM; W. Smith/Mm Flyers PG ZWICKER, TARA: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride Region 5 ANDERSON, SCOTT: Hailey, ID; M. Davis/Sun Valley PG BARD, SHAWN: Jackson, WY; S. Hatris/Paraglide Wyoming BREWER, ROBERT: Ketchum, ID; M. Davis/Sun Valley PG D ARGE, RANYON: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming DANIELSON, MAC: Twin Falls, ID; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HOCHHALTER, RUSSELL: Missoula, MT; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HULLINGER, MARK: Jackson, WY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG JOHNSON, DON: Billings, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG KELSER, DAVID: Lander, WY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MACRAE, BARRIE: Bozeman, MT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center MC ROBERTS, GREG: Hailey, ID; G. Callaghan/Sun Valley PG RAUSCHER, DAVE: Boise, ID; G. Callaghan/Sun Valley PG REED, KAMISE: Jackson, WY; B. Bloxham/King Mm PG SNAREY, LANCE: Boise, ID; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SQUIRES, BEN: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming SURBAUGH, JEFF: Ketchum, ID; G. Callaghan/Sun Valley PG Region 6 AUSTIN, MICHAEL: Ozark, MO; F. De Santis/U Can Fly 2 SCHWARTZ, TIMOTHY: Topeka, KS; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG TAYLOR, MARK: Shawnee, KS; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG Region 7 GILL, PETER: Rapid City, SD; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly HARWELL, GREGORY: Farwell, MN; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport MARZOL, RADOSLAW: Chicago, IL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG TAYLOR, DANIEL: Columbus, IN; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG TROGSTAD, GARY: Eyota, MN; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 8 BAUDIN, RICHARD: Wakefield, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP BICKNELL, ROBYN: Claremont, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP CUBANSKI, DOUG: Westborough, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP

GHETTI, DALTON: Westport, CT; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding HERSH, JEFF: Hopkinton, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP SAMPAIO, ERICK: Medford, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP Region 9 ANDRADE, JULIAN: Portsmouth, VA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG ECKARDT, SIGRID: Kennett Square, PA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ENGELKEMIER, TIM: Huttonsville, WV; B. Herrick HILL, MATTHEW: Hellertown, PA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding MC CANN, MARY NOREEN: Harleysville, PA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP MC DERMOTT, GLENN: Springfield, VA; D. Covington/Big Sky PG PATRICK, ROBERT: Arlington, VA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP RETZ, DANIEL: Long Pond, PA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding SKILLMAN, JOSH: Bethesda, MO; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP TALCUCCI, JOHN: Downingtown, PA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding Region 10 ALVAREZ, BERNARDO: Dunnellon, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG ANDERSON, DAVID: Orlando, FL; K. Munn/Ohio PG CHUNN, RANDALL: Greenbrier, TN; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG CORLEY, JEFFREY: Sevierville, TN; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG CUNNINGHAM, CHARLES: Sevierville, TN; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG CUNNINGHAM, DAWN: Sevierville, TN; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG DANIELS,JAMIE: Sevierville, TN; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG FENNER, KIRK: Treadway, TN; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG HUGHES, MICHAEL: Suwanee, GA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz JARVIS, MARTIN: Stuart, FL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG KANUK, PETR: Duluth, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG LITTLEFIELD, LARRY: Lantana, FL; J. Casaudoumecq/ Aerolight USA LOWERSON, MARK: Lawrenceville, GA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz MILICI, TONY: Cape Canaveral, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PARDO, SEBASTIAN: Sanford, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PAWERA, JANUSZ: Duluth, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG SHIPPEY, GORDON: Atlanta, GA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG VAN DEUSON, ADRIAN: Marietta, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG WEBER, SCOTT: Sumter, SC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG WILDE, JAMES: Raleigh, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 11 ALBURY, STEVE: Nacogdoches, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG ALTER, EILEEN: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG BRUCE, ROBERT: Dallas, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG CAMPBELL, BILL: San Marcos, TX; M. Osowski/Hill Country PG COLLINS-RUSSELL, CATHY: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG COOPER, THOMAS: Longview, TX; M. Osowski/Hill Country PG FRUTH, JENNIFER: Kyle, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG GARLICK, TIMOTHY: Arlington, TX; D. Broyles/Kite Enterpirses GRAF, JACE: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG HALL, DANNY: Texas City, TX; M. Osowski/Hill Country PG ISHII, STEVE: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG LESSNER DDS, MICHAEL: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG MAURER, TERRY: Cedar Hill, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG MORRISON, LAWRENCE: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG MUSICK, DAVID: Adkins, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG POGUE, TED: Houston, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG ROBINSON, JR, THOMAS: Houston, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG SELLERS, GORDON: Plano, TX; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center

PARAGLIDING

STEVENSON, WILL: San Antonio, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG STEWART, KELANY: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG TODD, C DAVID: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG WARD, MICHAEL: Austin, TX; M. Osowski/Hill Country PG Region 12 BAKER, JOHN: New Yark, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding BLOOMER, AIAN: Raritan, NJ; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding EUSTICE, MARK: Brick, NJ; A. Chuculate/Adventure Wings NIZNIK, PAUL: New York, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding SODRE, MOISES: Astoria, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding THERRIEN, PAUL: Long Beach, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding Region 13 BAHR, JIM: Canada; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport GUTIERREZ, RODRIGO: Chile; T. Alexander/Aspen PG KAY, JONATHAN: England; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG RODRIGUZ,JUAN: Mexico; M. Gutierrez/Alas Del Hombre SCHNEIDER, HANS PETER: Germany 61203; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SCHNEIDER, SABINE: Germany 61203; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SLYMAN, DAVID: Germany 82538; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport WALSHE, MICHAEL: Uk NG91Fl; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP

NOVICE RATINGS Region l ANDERSON, SYLVAN: Grand Coulee, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG BERKHEIMER, LONNIE: Selah, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG BOGGS, ERIKA: Vancouver, WA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG BOWER, PETER: Seattle, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington BUKER, KATHERINE: Seattle, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG CANTRELL, DAVE: Aloha, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of Oregon HANSEN, ANDREA: Fairbanks, AK; F. Gillette/Magic Valley Gliders HAWKINS, PAUL: Seatcle, WA; M. Eberle/North American PG HOLT, STEVE: Porcland, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of Oregon KROIS, WILLIAM: Grants Pass, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG MITTELSTADT, KARL: Girdwood, AK; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG NOVAKOVICH, STEVE: Anchorage, AK; B. Hamler/Golden Eagle PG OLSON, JOHN: Portland, OR; S. Roti/Mt. Bachelor PG PORTER, ROGER: Duvall, WA; M. Heckler/Paraglide Washington RIDDERBUSCH, RON: Tillamook, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of OR ROSAUER, CHRIS: Girdwood, AK; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG ROSSBERG, CHRISTIAN: Elmira, OR; M. Devieni/Dixon's Airplay PG SCHECHTER, ROBERT: Portland, OR; D. Raybourn/HG/PG School of OR SCHRANTZ, PETER: Federal Way, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington SEABLOOM, THOMAS: Anchorage, AK; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG SMITH, WAYNE: Jacksonville, OR; K. Lee/Thermal Tracker PG STIVERS, BRIAN: Marysville, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School TEMRES, LARRY: Port Angeles, WA; C. Kahyaoglu/Proflight Hawaii TOLF, BRANDON: Lynnwood, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington WILSON, TIM: Port Townsend, WA; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG Region 2 COOLEY, BARBARA: Palo Alto, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell DOLPHIN, JOY: Mill Valley, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All EITENMILLER, KURT: Reno, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

ELLERS, DAVID: San Mateo, CA; H. Rejmanek/Airtime of SF ESTRADA, ALBERTO: San Luis Obispo, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All GUBERMAN, DARRON: Emeryville, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School HOSCH, PATRICIA: Santa Clara, CA;]. Lucas/Glidell KABAI, IMRE: Foster City, CA; R. Ost!Blackwing PG LANG, ANTHONY: Las Vegas, NV; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits LAYTON, ERIC: Mill Valley, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All LIEBENDORFER, PAUL: Carson City, NV; R. Leonard/Adventure Sports MEHLHAFF, ERIC: Berkeley, CA;]. Lucas/Glidell MILLER, JUSTIN: Geyserville, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School SOLTZ, DAVID: San Jose, CA;]. Lucas/Glidell WALLACE, MICHAEL: Monterey, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky YOUNG, KEVIN: San Pablo, CA; W. Anderson/Merlin Flight School Region 3 ALDER, ADAM: Fullerton, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG ANDERSON, CLINTON: San Diego, CA; J. Meyers/Airtek BELLINI, CHRIS: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport CANU, MEHMET: Haiku, HI; I. Erol/Proflyght Hawaii PG CAPIAN, GREGG: San Diego, CA; G. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport DONSKOY, ERAN: San Diego, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport FALARDEAU,JEAN-PIERRE: Santa Ana Hghts, CA; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG GRASSO, PAUL: Fallbrook, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport GREER, RICK: Santa Barbara, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports HADLER, PHILIP: Los Angeles, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All HAGEN, EMND: Huntington Bch, CA; M. DeBarros/Atmosphere PG HARDIN, JEFF: Fountain Valley, CA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HILGERMAN, ROBERT: Oxnard, CA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding HILLYER, CHRIS: Santa Barbara, CA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG HIRSCH, BRIAN: Pasadena, CA; A. Chuculate/Adventure Wings HOSKINSON, JANETTE: San Diego, CA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG IMHOF, URS: La Jolla, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport KARNY, EYAL: Irvine, CA; M. DeBarros/Atmosphere PG LAMB, WARREN: Oalc View, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports LAWRENCE, BRYN: Kamuela, HI; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG LODER.ER, ANDREAS: San Diego, CA; A. Perham/Torrey Pines Gliderport MCCLUSKEY, BRIAN: Encinitas, CA; F. Lawley/Accelerated Flight Systems MICHELMORE, DAVID: Kihei, HI; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG MOLLER, KRISTOPHER: Agoura, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports OVERTON, RICHARD: San Diego, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG PANOV, VICTOR: Camarillo, CA; T. Nelson/Thermal Dynamics PG RABER,: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport SALUK, AIAN: San Diego, CA; K Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport STANIFORTH, JIM: Tehachapi, CA; Y. Bajulaz URICH, SUSAN: Temecula, CA; K. Biernacki/Upper Limits VICTOR, JAMES: Santa Barbara, CA; T. Truax/Sky Sports WOOD, MIKE: Honolulu, HI; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG Region 4 ADELMAN, CHRIS: Durango, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG BELTZ, JOHN: Golden, CO; G. Ridgik/Parasoft PG BIGLER, OLIVER: Provo, UT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center BREEN IV, THOMAS: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride CALLICOTT, DAIVD: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride CASTANARES, RODOLFO: Denver, CO; G. Banks/Parasoft PG CSIZMAZIA, KIM: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG DILIC, HASAN: Tucson, AZ; S. Horton/Alas De Arizona

ELAM, DARYL: Benson, AZ; G. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport GREEFF, RAYMOND: Rivercon, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly HEINEMANN, JAN: Carbondale, CO; D. Bridges/Aspen PG ISON, SHANNON: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG JENKINS, WILLIAM: Boulder, CO; R. Kocurek/Crested Butte PG LASSON, CHAD: Provo, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MCGINLEY, KEVIN: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride MELLON, DAVID: Carbondale, CO; E. Pienaar/Aspen PG MIDDLETON, HARRY: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 ODUM, LANCE: Spanish Fork, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG PLUMMER, RAY: Sandy, UT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center SCHRECKENGOST, BRETT: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride SHERWOOD, MIC: Oro Valley, AZ; S. Horton/Alas De Arizona TAYLOR, NATHAN: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG WARD, SHANNON: Edwards, CO; G. Kelley/Vail Valley PG ZWICKER, TARA: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride Region 5 BARD, SHAWN: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming D ARGE, RANYON: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming HOCHHALTER, RUSSELL: Missoula, MT; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG HULLINGER, MARK: Jackson, WY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG JOHNSON, DON: Billings, MT; D. Covington/Big Sky PG KELSER, DAYID: Lander, WY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG MACRAE, BARRIE: Bozeman, MT; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center REED, KAMISE: Jackson, WY; B. Bloxham/King Mrn PG SNAREY, LANCE: Boise, ID; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SQUIRES, BEN: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming SURBAUGH, JEFF: Hailey, ID; G. Callaghan/Sun Valley PG Region 6 SCHWARTZ, TIMOTHY: Topeka, KS; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG TAYLOR, MARK: Shawnee, KS; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG Region 7 BIERLEIN, JEFF: Elgin, IL; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG CARSON, JASON: Glendale Hts, IL; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG GILL, PETER: Rapid City, SD; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly GOIN, JEFF: Naperville, IL; J. Williams/Air America PG MARZOL, RADOSLAW: Chicago, IL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG TAYLOR, DANIEL: Columbus, IN; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG TROGSTAD, GARY: Eyota, MN; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 8 BAUD IN, RICHARD: Wakefield, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP CUBANSKI, DOUG: Westborough, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP GHETTI, DALTON: Westport, CT; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding HERSH, JEFF: Hopkinton, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP MARICHAL, PAUL: Ctr Strafford, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP PARQUETTE, MARK: Dover, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP RYDEEN, MICHAEL: Portsmouth, NH; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP SAMPAIO, ERICK: Medford, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP Region 9 ANDRADE, JULIAN: Portsmouth, VA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG ECKARDT, SIGRID: Kennett Square, PA; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG ENGELKEMIER, TIM: Huttonsville, WV; B. Herrick

HILL, MATTHEW: Hellertown, PA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding KRISELER, DANNY: Olney, MD; A. Chuculate/Adventure Wings MARZEWSKI, ERIC: Severn, MD; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG MC CANN, MARY NOREEN: Harleysville, PA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP MC DERMOTT, GLENN: Springfield, VA; D. Covington/Big Sky PG PATRICK, ROBERT: Arlington, VA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP PRINSLOO, CHANTELLE: Frederick, MD; W. Elseth RETZ, DANIEL: Long Pond, PA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding SKILLMAN, JOSH: Bethesda, MD; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP TALCUCCI, JOHN: Downingtown, PA; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding Region 10 ALVAREZ, BERNARDO: Dunnellon, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG FORETIC, SANDY: Gainesville, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG HUGHES, MICHAEL: Suwanee, GA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz JARVIS, MARTIN: Stuart, FL; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG KANUK, PETR: Duluth, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG LITTLEFIELD, LARRY: Lantana, FL; J. Casaudoumecq/Aerolighr USA LOWERSON, MARK: Lawrenceville, GA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz MILICI, TONY: Cape Canaveral, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PARDO, SEBASTIAN: Sanford, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PAWERA, JANUSZ: Duluth, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG SHIPPEY, GORDON: Atlanta, GA; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG VAN DEUSON, ADRIAN: Marietta, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG WEBER, SCOTT: Sumter, SC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG WILDE, JAMES: Raleigh, NC; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 11 GARLICK, TIMOTHY: Arlington, TX; D. Broyles/Kite Enterpirses LESSNER DDS, MICHAEL: Austin, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG MAY, DAVID: Keene, TX; M. DeVietti/Dixon's Airplay PG MUSICK, DAVID: Adkins, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG POGUE, TED: Houston, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG ROBINSON, JR, THOMAS: Houston, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG SELLERS, GORDON: Plano, TX; H. Comfort/The Soaring Center WILLIAMSON, BROOK: Azle, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG Region 12 BAKER, JOHN: New York, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding BLOOMER, ALAN: Raritan, NJ; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding NIZNIK, PAUL: New York, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding SODRE, MOISES: Astoria, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding THERRIEN, PAUL: Long Beach, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding Region 13 KAY, JONATHAN: England; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG RODRIGUZ, JUAN: Mexico; M. Gutierrez/Alas Del Hombre SCHNEIDER, HANS PETER: Germany 61203; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SCHNEIDER, SABINE: Germany 61203; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG WALSHE, MICHAEL: UK NG9!Fl; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP

INTERMEDIATE RATINGS Region l AMEND, MATTHEW: Seattle, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School DAHL, GEOFF: Issaquah, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washingron KELLER, FORREST: Vashon, WA; M. Hed<ler/Paraglide Washington KUNKEL, DAN: Bellevue, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School

PARAGLIDIJ\G

MC NABB, GREGORY: Bellevue, WA; M. Karren ODEGARD, DAVID: Seattle, WA; L. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School WILLIAMS, STEVE: Seattle, WA; M. Karren Region2 ELLERS, DAYID: San Mateo, CA; H. Rejmanek/Airtime of SF KLINGBERG, ROLLIN: Cupertino, CA; P. Hirst/Para Sport MOLL, GEORGES: Santa Clara, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell PAUL, CAROLINE: San Francisco, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG REID, CHRIS: San Jose, CA; J. Laos/Glide!! SOLTZ, DAVID: San Jose, CA; J. Lucas/Glidell Region 3 BAIER, DONNA: Encinitas, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG CANU, MEHMET: Haiku, HI; I. Erol/Proflyght Hawaii PG ERICKSON, ANDY: Santa Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All HIRSCH, BRIAN: Pasadena, CA; A. Chuculate/Advenrure Wings IMHOF, URS: La Jolla, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport JOHNSON, MARK: Encinitas, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport JUZWIAK, WILLIAM: Encino, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport LANGAN, CHRISTOPHER: Kamuda, HI; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming MCCLUSKEY, BRIAN: Encinitas, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport MC GUINNESS, SEAN: Helendale, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport NORTON, FRANK: Laguna Hills, CA; J. Williams/Air America PG PISAR, ROMAN: Rolling Hills, CA; M. DeBarros/Atmosphere PG PROKSCH, ROGER: Santa Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All RABER,: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport REES, JESSICA: Sama Barbara, CA; C. Basrian/Fly Above All RYZHY, AMY: San Diego, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG SIMPSON, GLENN: La Mesa, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport SOIANDT, ARNAUD: R.p.v., CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport STOKKE, ERIC: Santa Barbara, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All VULTEE, FORREST: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport WOOD, MIKE: Honolulu, HI; S. Amy/Proflyght Hawaii PG Region 4 DIXON, DAVID: Bluffdale, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG FAIRBAIRN, ANDREW: Breckenridge, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG LESSARD, LUCIE: Salt Lake City, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly MCOMBER, DAN: Louisville, CO; M. Smith NUTIMANN, SAM: Salt Lake City, UT; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG REEVES, LLOYD: Murray, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly SMITH, LEWIS: Tucson, AZ; S. Horton/Alas De Arizona TENNESSEN, TOM: Boulder, CO; M. Smirh WHILLDIN, DONALD: Glenwood Spgs, CO; K Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderpon Region 5 HARNESS, FRED: Jackson, WY; T. Bartlett/Peak PG PEARSON, JOHN: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming SIVAZLIAN, MARK: Helena, MT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly WILCOX, JEFF: Jackson, WY; T. Bartlett/Peak PG Region 7 SCHOLTES, NICK: Joliet, IL; A. Chuculate/Adventure Wings

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

Region 8 CHEVALIER, ROBERT: South Kent, CT; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding FRAWLEY, DAYID: N Tewksbury, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP MILLER, NIECE: Beverly, MA; J. Nicolay/Morningside FP SMITH, ROBERT: Wellfleet, MA; C. Smith/Aspen PG Region 9 GRAHAM, DAVID: Lancaster, PA; D. Covington/Big Sky PG HAYS, BREIT: Dover, DE; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PRINSLOO, JOHAN: Frederick, MD; W. Elseth Region 10 ALVAREZ, BERNARDO: Dunnellon, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG KANUK, PETR: Duluth, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG LOWERSON, MARK: Lawrenceville, GA; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz MC CRANELS, CHUM: Singer Island, FL; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG PARDO, SEBASTIAN: Sanford, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 11 COOMER, PHILLIP: Springrown, TX; N. Stanford/Hill Country PG Region 12 CAPPEL!, LOUIS: White Plains, NY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG SCHALLER FRANCO, PATRICIA: Ellenville, NY; P. Franco/New York PG SODRE, MOISES: Astoria, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding SOIFER, BOHAN: Corinth, NY; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG

ADVANCED RATINGS Region 1 DAHL, GEOFF: Issaquah, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington Region 2 BADARACCO, PATRICIO: Stinson Beach, CA; H. Rejmanek/Airtime of SF BEIER, MONDIE: Lafayette, CA; K. Galvin FINKEL, JOSEPH: Oakland, CA; R. Ost/Blackwing PG MORFORD, GEORGE: Fremonr, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky MORSE, HOWARD: Arroyo Grande, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky PETERSON, PETER: Belvedere, CA; C. Bastian/Fly Above All SCHIMKE, GERALD: Davis, CA; S. Casparian Region 3

CANU, MEHMET: Haiku, HI; I. Erol/Proflyght Hawaii PG HORETH, GEORGE: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport HURST, JOHN: San Diego, CA; D. Jebb/Torrey Pines Gliderport IMHOF, URS: La Jolla, CA; K. Hong/Torrey Pines Gliderport JAN CIC, CHARLIE: Escondido, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG MENDES, CARY: Kula, HI; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG PISAR, ROMAN: Rolling Hills, CA; M. DeBarros/Atmosphere PG ULISNIK, DUANE: Honolulu, HI; J.Goldberghiller WARD, MICHAEL: Visalia, CA; H. Murphy/Surf the Sky PG Region4 ELLETT, WADE: Evergreen, CO; M. Smith HINTZE, KEVIN: Riverton, UT; J. Farrell/Super Fly Boyz

PATTY, TANNER: Flagstaff, AZ; D. White/Dixon's Airplay PG PINKNEY, DONN: Telluride, CO; S. MacLowry/Paraglide Telluride WALDROP, JOSH: Aspen, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 Region 5 CURRY, DAYID: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming MADSEN, LUKE: Wilson, WY; T. Bartlett Region 8 FUESSLER, ROLF: Boston, MA; S. Berk GREIS, PETER: Arlington, MA; S. Berk Region 10 ALVAREZ, BERNARDO: Dunnellon, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG KANUK, PETR: Duluth, GA; C. Bowles/Southern Skies PG PARDO, SEBASTIAN: Sanford, FL; T. Bowles/Southern Skies PG Region 12 EBENFELD, TOBIAS: New York, NY; S. Marion/Point of the Men PG GERBER, HEINZ: Valhalla, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding HOGAN, PAUL: Maspeth, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding SODRE, MOISES: Astoria, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding

TANDEM INSTRUCTOR RATINGS Region l GREEN, MICHAEL: Burien, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington Region3 GRITSCH, JEFF: Santa Barbara, CA; P. Hirst/Para Sport IMHOF, URS: La Jolla, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG MASTERSON, MICHAEL: Westminster, CA; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG PERHAM, ARMIN: La Jolla, CA; K Baier/Airjunkies PG Region 4 BINDER, DAVID: Draper, UT; K.Hudonjorgensen/Two Can Fly Region 5 REED, MICHAEL: Jackson, WY; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz Region 13 BOTTERON, CYRIL: Canada; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG

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

Region 13 BOTTERON, CYRIL: Canada; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG

TANDEM ONE RATINGS Region l DAHL, GEOFF: lssaquah, WA; B. Hannah/Paraglide Washington DAVIS, MARK: Issaquah, WA; M. Chirico/Chirico's Fright School Region 3 GILD RED, JR, STUART: San Diego, CA; P. Michelmore/Paradise PG MASTERSON, MICHAEL: Westminster, CA; T. Nelson/Thermal Dynamics MENDES, CARY: Kula, HI; K. Baier/Airjunkies PG Region 4 CRISS, BO: Salt Lake Ciry, UT; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz MARION, SCOTTY: Draper, UT; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz WALDROP, JOSH: Aspen, CO; S. Mayer/Cloud 9 PG Region 5 COMBS, JAMES MATT: Jackson, WY; S. Harris/Paraglide Wyoming Region 12 RITCHIE, ALI STAIR: New York, NY; L. Linde/East Coast Paragliding

TANDEM TWO RATINGS Region 5 REED, MICHAEL: Jackson, WY; C. Santacroce/Super Fly Boyz

RANK SCHOOL ............................................. BEGINNER 1 Torrey Pines Gliderport ...................................... .48 Cloud 9 Paragliding ............................................. 42 2 Southern Skies Paragliding ................................. .40 3 Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ................................. 39 4 Hill Country Paragliding ..................................... 25 5 East Coast Paragliding ......................................... 17 6 Paraglide Washington .......................................... 12 7 Fly Above All. ...................................................... 10 8 Glidell ................................................................. 10 8 Morningside Flight Park ...................................... 10 8 1999 TOP 10 SCHOOL/CLUB LEADERS IN NOVICE (PARA 2) RATINGS ISSUED

RANK 1 2 3

4 5 6 7

7 8 8

SCHOOL.. ................................................ NOVICE Cloud 9 Paragliding ............................................. 42 Southern Skies Paragliding ................................. .40 Dixon's Airplay Paragliding ................................. 25 Torrey Pines Gliderporr ....................................... 24 East Coast Paragliding ......................................... 17 Parasoft Paragliding ............................................. 13 Morningside Flight Park ...................................... 12 The Soaring Center ............................................. 12 Fly Above All ....................................................... 10 Glidell ................................................................. 10

Rankings are compiled ftom ratings published in the January/February through September/October 1999 issues of Paragliding magazine.

PARAGLIDING

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TAKING YOU HIGHER

Dixon's

airPlay

Paragliding School and Flight Park

Windtech Ambar

Skill level Projected

Area

Min Tum Max

Area

Span AIR Area

Span AIR Root Tip Cells Flight weight Flight speed

Windtech Siena

Skill level Pro1ected

Chord Cells flight weight flight speed

Area

Span AIR Root Tip

Min Trim

Max

m' m m' m m

m kg km/h km/h km/h

mis

Sink rate

Glide ratio OHV/ACPUL

Skill level Projected Flat

Chord Cells Flight weight DHV/ACPUL

Min Trim Max

Sink rate Glide ratio DHV/ACPUL

m' m

23.0 8.93 3.64 m' 15.0 m 10.9 4 67 m 1.85 m 0.65 35 kg 60-85 km/h 11 km/h 37 km/h 45 mis 1.15 7.6 Std

24.5 9.16 3.64 16.8 11.1 4.67 1.96 0.67 35 75-95 11 37 45 1.15 7.6 Std

16.1 28.8 9.60 10.04 3.64 3.64 18.8 31.5 11.6 11.0 4.67 4.67 3.07 3.11 0.70 0.73 35 35 85-105 95-110 21 11 37 37 45 45 1.15 1.15 7.6 7.6 Std/1 -11-1

m' m

22.1 9.68 4.25 24.9 11.6 5.41 1.68 0.57 67 75-95 12 38 52 1.0 8.4 Pert.

14.0 25.8 10.09 10.47 4.15 4.25 170 19.1 11.09 12.54 5.41 5.41 1.79 2.89 0.60 0.61 67 67 85-105 95-110 12 22 38 38 52 52 1.0 1.0 8.4 8.4 Pert. Pert.

m' m m m kg km/h km/h km/h

mis

10.3 9.18 4.15 11.9 11.12 5.41 1.56 0.55 67 60-85 11 38 52 1.0 8.4 Pert.

Intermediate

Area

Span AIR Flat

Beginner/Intermediate

Area Span AIR Span AIR Root Tip

Flight weight Flight speed

22.9 9.30 377 26.1 11.29 4.89 2.87 0.67 48 65-90 22 37 45 1.15 7.7 Std

24 .6 27.1 9.64 10.12 3.77 3.77 28.0 30.9 11.7 12.28 4.89 4.89 2.98 3.13 0.70 0.73 48 48 75-100 90-115 22 22 37 37 45 45 1.15 1.15 7.7 7.7 Std Std

Tandem Area Area

Span AIR Root Tip

m' m' m m m kg

37 .1 4t.3 14 4.85 3.62 0.95 45 140-210 Tandem

www.paraglide.com dixon@paraglide.com 509-782-5543

airPlay

Paragliding Gear and Service Center

FEAR

''Eighry percent ofsuccess is just

showing up."- Woody Allen

ny humble paraglider or hang glider pilot knows that success really depends on that remaining 20%, the weather. The U.S. Paragliding Team was 80% successful at the 1999 Paragliding World Championships. We showed up. Eight pilots, the team leader and several supportive others all showed up in Pinzgau, Austria, some 5,000 miles and eight or nine time zones away. Our 80% success was shared with 237 other pilots from 39 other countries who also showed up and coughed up the $320 per pilot entry fee, which didn't include lunch each day or backup film, but did include ski-lift passes to carry us smoothly 4,000 feet up to launch. Pilots could also show their ski-lift passes to any train conductor for a free ride back to Neukirchen,

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the charming town we called home for the three weeks of the competition. Pinzgau is a few hours from Innsbruck, Munich and Salzburg. It's a lush, green, cattle-farming valley stretching 35 miles east-west, surrounded by 6,000-foot mountains. Neukirchen lies toward the west end of the valley, one of a dozen tiny towns each with a church steeple and full of stout square houses made identically for hundreds of years. From the tops of the surrounding mountains you can view taller glaciated peaks to the south, on the rare days when we could see anything at all. Part of Murphy's Law says that for any given competition, the very best weather will happen on the day before the competition starts. Yes, this did happen to us . A gorgeous cloud street ran down the valley. Word spread of a popular practice task: fly 15 km or so to Kitzbuhl, top-land there to have lunch while watching the hang gliding "speed gliding" competition

LOA

going on there, then fly back to Neukirchen later. This is what the U.S. team chose to do. We enjoyed it, which is important because it turned out to be the best flying we would have. Sunday, July 4th: During the morning briefing the organizers honored U.S. Independence Day. The task was to be fairly long, a 107-km out-and-return. There was some concern that it might overdevelop into thunderstorms. I had flown the far legs of this task the day before, and it took me three and a half hours. During the safety committee meeting Claire Bernier suggested that the task might be too long given the risk of thunderstorms, but they decided we would all go for it. Our first misfortune (and hint of the organizers' failings) happened right away: Gary Brock laid his wing out toward the bottom of the designated launch area. All the pilots gathered for a mandatory pilot briefing up above there. While we were

. ~~· ,__ . ' ~ ' . ,-~.

"' : . Cloud street... on the day before the comp, ofcourse. .

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PARAGLIDING

THE

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•

by Paul Klemond away, one of the cows that were roaming free in the field wandered over to check out Gary's very cool wing, a red Airwave XXX. Gary caught the snoop in the act, and as the beast lumbered off, several lines snagged around its hooves and it dragged Gary's wing. Rrrriiiippp! Score one for the Bovine Austrian Saboteur! Okay, I'm not certain the cow was a nationalist agent, but she showed not one shred of remorse. Like most cows would, it just showed mindless panic at being chased by a furious Gary Brock. Needless to say, we were not at all pleased with the organizers' management of the launch area. I hustled down to U.S. headquarters to snag an extra Firebird Rocket that Chris Santacroce had on hand. Forry-five minutes later most competitors were off and thermaling. We smacked ID numbers on the new glider and got Gary off launch 10 minutes before the launch window closed and running hopelessly far

behind the lead gaggle. Austrian veteran Christian Heinrich was screaming down the course, averaging 39 km/hr. (I personally have to be on my speed bar to do 39 km/hr, and I have to stop once in a while to thermal - that really slows me down.) The Europeans have a name for the strong winds that set up in the Alps, and it's pronounced "foon. " North or south, it really blows. This one moved in from the south while the troops were out flying the course. Oh yeah, there was also a large storm cell "dropping out" over the far turnpoint at the east end of the valley, beyond the watchful eyes of the organizers. When the weather gets threatening, each pilot must decide for himself or herself when to land and abort a task. In lockstep with this decision the organizers must decide whether or not to cancel a task when the pilots are in too much danger. History shows clearly that if the organizers fail to cancel a task when they

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

should, and instead leave it to each pilot to decide whether or not to risk the weather, tragedy results. Tragedy resulted. Even the lead pilot Christian Heinrich had to play Russian Roulette with the thunderstorm brewing over the turnpoint, and he was way ahead. The later you got there, the greater the odds the storm would "drop out" and spank you with a gust front. The organizers were not monitoring the weather at the far rurnpoint. It's hard to make a good decision whether or not to cancel a task when you're not even aware of the weather on the course. Several pilots crashed and had to be helicoptered out. U.S. team pilot Lizzy Opitz is a doctor. She landed to help a Polish team pilot who crashed and was injured. Other U.S. pilots in the air relayed by radio Lizzy's call for a helicopter. As team leader, I was required to monitor both the U.S. ream frequency and the meet's emergency frequency. l relayed Lizzy's call on the emergency frequency. No response. I repeated it several times. I was four blocks from the meet headquarters building. No one responded. Finally the Danish team leader responded. She was standing at headquarters and said she'd walk in and tell them to respond to the call. Ir's pretty amazing that the organizers failed to monitor the emergency frequency! Now I started to fear for the safety of our team pilots. Todd Bibler, veteran competitor on the U.S. team, had rounded the far "roulette" turnpoint and was racing back to goal when the gust front moved in. He described being blown perpendicular to the course line into the 50-mph venturi winds through Pass Thurn northward into Kirzbuhl. Some ofTodd's "normal" adventures and accomplishments scare the hell out of me. Imagine what it takes to shake up a guy like this. He was pretty

Despite conditions like these, the organizers refused to close the launch window.

out injury. No one ever caught up with Christian Heinrich so he won the task, followed by Canada's Chris Muller, and over the next hour 80 more pilots including three Americans (Othar, Josh and Bill.) The winds in the LZ were substantial at times; I sure wouldn't have been flying. Is taking this kind of risk something we want our sport to be about? Some of the U.S. pilots were very upset that the task wasn't canceled, including at least one who made goal. A few were neutral at best. So I joined 12 other countries and signed a protest asking the Jury to cancel the day. It was rejected. The story goes fast from here: rain, rain and more rain. Thirteen days straight of rain. Every morning while the team was still sleeping I got up and drove to meet headquarters in Bramburg, the next town down the valley. Every day the respectable meteorologist told us the same thing: Today and tomorrow look not so good, but two days from now it could get good. Soon this became laughable, but I had to appreciate the durability of this optimism. A week went by, and the team was really starting to get stir-crazy. You felt trapped because the sunshine was too far away; you couldn't go there and get back in time for the mythical Good Weather That Will Be Here In 48 Hours. Mark Horvath is a U.S. competition pilot ranked in the top 10 and an all-around great guy. He lives in Garmisch, Germany

a few hours away from Pinzgau and brought down a special VCR that can play U.S. videotapes on the European TV's (which use a different signal standard). He also brought tapes of the South Park TV show, about eight hours worth. If it hadn't been for this diversion to take the edge off, I'm convinced the Austrian citizenry would have suffered from the restlessness that was fermenting. Life was pretty oppressive by the 10th straight day of rain . (I'm the only one from Seattle, well-adapted to endless rain.) To be a valid competition, we would need to fly four tasks. As the days started to dwindle, the organizers got very worried. In marginal weather we gathered our gear and headed up in the rain to one launch in the morning, then another in the afternoon, still in the rain. One team mustered enough good humor to walk around on launch wearing snorkels and scuba masks. Toward the end, the organizers asked the team leaders to vote on several issues, all designed to meet the letter of the rules (requiring four valid tasks) but all violating the intent and spirit of the rules. All were voted down. On Friday, July 16, we once again went up top in marginal weather. Two days remained in which to fly three tasks. A number of pilots, including two from our team, had left Pinzgau, knowing that the meet would be invalid. But the organizers were too desperate to let it go. They had set an aggressive timetable and would try to run two tasks this day. The pilots

were unhappy about this. The weather was marginal and there would be no room for safety-related delays, and the second task of the day would be pressured, short and not sporting. I heard over the radio that the cows were once again a problem. I had to prod the organizers into providing the "cowboys" they said they'd provide after our mishap on the first day. The darkening clouds overhead were building. Arms of cloud moved across launch, at times thick like fog. Josh Cohn decided that this was bogus and launched early, as did Todd, Othar, and numerous other top pilots. They flew down and landed. The rest of us gathered and reached a consensus quickly: If they wouldn't cancel the task, we would withdraw. They didn't, so we did. The launch window opened, and a number of pilots made it off. The winds were calm at times, blowing down at others. Those who launched were rhermaling, many of them into the clouds, despite the rules against this. I pointed this out to the organizer, who replied that someone below was watching with a telescope to enforce the cloud-flying rules. Some of these pilots were not visible from the valley floor. As the clouds obscured launch, some pilots launched anyway and immediately disappeared. Again, the organizers took no action. After 45 minutes of this, the winds were blowing down more forcefully, and light rain was beginning to fall. I boarded the ski lift down the mountain, but kept PARAGLIDING

ending the U.S. team to Europe for the World Championships took strong support from the entire U.S. paragliding community- pilots, businesses and the staff at USHGA. I always forget at least one person who deserves thanks; if that's you this time I am very sorry!

~~ !,M\ G

•

IDER S

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• AbSOLute Sky Outfitters, Cloud Nine and Steve Mayer, importer of SOL paragliders • Edel USA, importer of Edel paragliders and harnesses • Epic and Duane Ulisnik for awesome T-shirt artwork, on the Web at http:/ !fly. to/team.epic • John Hovis, who donated his handmade commemorative silver coins for our Chelan fund-raiser • Kavu of Seattle, Washington, makers of fine outdoor clothing • Bob Kennagy and the Deep Water Brewery in Chelan, Washington • Greg McNabb of Seattle, Washington • MoJo's Gear, importer of UP paragliders and harnesses • Northwest Paragliding Club of Seattle, Washington • Nova and Hannes Papesh, Innsbruck, Austria • Parapente Aspen of Aspen, Colorado • Pro-Design USA and John Yates, importer of Pro-Design paragliders • Mark Sivazlian and High Plainz Paragliding School in Helena, Montana • Steve Rori and the Cascade Paragliding Club in Portland, Oregon • Sup' Air and Philippe Renaudin, importer of Sup' Air harnesses and gear • SuperFly Inc., Chris Santacroce and Jeffrey Farrell, importers of Firebird, Gin and Ozone paragliders • T. White of Hood River, Oregon • USHGA- the staff at headquarters and the paragliding pilot members everywhere The team offers each of you a sincere, heartfelt "Thank you!" If you run into Chris Santacroce, shake his hand. The guy really put in a stunning amount of work to make the Chelan X-C fund-raiser happen. I know of no person anywhere more dedicated to the sport and the pilots in the U.S. than Chris Santacroce. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

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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

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my radio on. At this point it was raining hard. I received word on the emergency frequency that a helicopter had been summoned to the valley. A Taiwanese pilot had crashed into high-tension power lines. Reports conflicted as to whether he was blown into them by a gust front or whether he fixated and flew into the lines. The circuit-breakers were tripped but the initial jolt of electricity heated his harness and flight suit to over 1,000 degrees, igniting and melting them. He was airlifted to Innsbruck, alive but in critical condition. The task ,vas officially ca11celed. The next morning we were very glad to be leaving Austria. The weather was, of course, sunny. More than 100 pilots had left the meet. The rest were up top, launching to fly a task. Canadian Chris Muller would end up winning the task, but it would only be worth 842 points out of 1,000 possible. So, Christian Heinrich became the unofficial world champion after two tasks, with Chris Muller in second place by a mere 16 points. It's anyone's guess as to who the official world champion would have been if two or more tasks could have been flown. Usually the champion is a consistent finisher who doesn't take first place in any of the tasks. It required an awful lot of preparation

and work, and a lot of support from you to get the team to Austria for this meet. It was really crushing after all that to be denied the opportunity to compete and demonstrate our skills. The bad weather was no one's fault, although many Austrians to whom we talked said that it often rains in July and they didn't know why anyone would run a meet there at this time of year. The organizational failures presented serious and needless safety hazards. The FAI/CIVL must learn from this and enforce a higher set of standards. The good news at the end of all this is that we have two years now in which to forget about it before the next World Meet in 2001. I'm not sure where it will be held, but I'm sure it won't be in Pinzgau, Austria. It's a beautiful place but I'd avoid any organized competition there, and I'd go in August when the weather's a bit more reliable.

Paul Klemond lives and f'-ies in Seattle, Washington. He can be reached by e-mail at paul@kurious.org. You can read more about the 1999 Paragliding World Championships at the US. Paragliding Team website: http:!lkurious.org!Us Team99 •

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Continued ftom page 10. 600-gram (1.43-lb.) sister, the ''Alpine 600," as the world's lightest harness at 430 grams (15 ounces). The Scorched Earth has received full DVH certification to the latest standards, even for back protector attachment, front and side parachute mounting, and towing. The harness, designed by Maxim de Jong, passed structural load tests and received DHV/OAeC certification, Nr.

MZL GS-03-210-99, on August 3. According to the manufacturer, Thin Red Line's design concepts have been rapidly gaining support from an increasing number of mainstream pilots who are frustrated by the ever-increasing encumbrance of paragliding gear. Despite their feather-light weight, TRLs harnesses have been carefully engineered with piloting sensitivity and performance in mind. A TRL harness is now being used at

"HANGSIM" - PBRST UGHT AVIATION SIMULATOR Wilco's proprietary atmospheric model ang gliders, paragliders, microlights i and sailplanes soar in Wilco i simulates the flow of air over mountains and Publishing's new software title, 1 valleys for ultimate realism. You can climb "Hangsim." It is the first PC-based glider l in thermals, soar ridge lift, and fight the pull simulation to push the envelope with ! as you get dose to clouds. You'll hear the / rush of the wind in your ears, fly your way truNo-life flight dynamics and photorealistic terrain, far beyond the boundaries j through sun and shadow, and dodge multi/ ple layers of fog and haze. of current digital design. Set for launch in September, Hangsim l In Free Flight mode you can make traingives you a choice of two hang gliders, ! ing flights. In Challenge mode you can add two paragliders, one sailplane and one ! severe weather, cloud coverage, strong theri mals and other effects. In Competition microlight, each entirely configurable with parameters ranging from nose angle / mode you race against intelligent glider to weight and wing span. You soar over l pilots. There's also a Just For Fun mode that real-world 30 mountains, forests, cities, ! lets you shoot other gliders down commanvalleys and seas depicted in 16-bit color l do-style - no blood or gore. and three meters/pix:el resolution for a ! Your personal logbook tracks all the parbird's-eye view unmatched in clarity and ! ticulars of each competition and a separate l flight record analyzes your performance on detail by any other flight sim.

DHV for official paraglider flight tests. Contact: Thin Red Line, (604) 8582300, fax (604) 858-3080, thinredline@uniserve.com, www. thin-redline.com.

AIAEANEWS

he new Balance from Airea is rated DHV 1 without the accelerator and 1-2 with it. The glider was designed to inspire confidence in new paraglider pilots every flight in every mode, including flight time and distance, average ground speed and maximum altitude. A control panel includes an altimeterlvariometer, a GPS, and a moving map display containing real aerial photographs of the topography below. To add to the realism you get a 360degree view and a good look at yourself as you launch, soar, and shift your weight. Thanks to the game's open architecture you can create your own glider or scan in a photograph of any real geographic area to add to the choice of terrain. Select from beginner, intermediate and expert levels in all flight modes and the weather will change to adjust the challenge accordingly. In Competition mode the choice of levels also determines competitors' behavior. And no matter the level, you can get out of any sticky situation by putting the system on autopilot and awaiting rescue. Hangsim will be sold in computer stores nationwide and carry an MSRP of $39 (U.S.). Minimum system requirement~ include a Pentium 166 with Windows 95/98 and 100 MB free hard disk space, plus Direct.X 6.0 or higher, a 30 graphics accelerator and a sound card. Founded in 1997, Wilco Publishing focuses on developing and marketing flight simulators. Its first products were add-ons to the Microsoft Flight Simulator, including Tahiti, Grand Canyon and Airport 2000 Volume 1. Hangsim is Wilco's first independent title. The company takes its name from the aeronautical abbreviation for "Will Comply." Wilco is based in Belgium and can be reached on the Web at www.wilcopub.com or by phone at 01132-2-331-32-90. PARAGLIDING

and offer peace of mind to instructors and more experienced pilots alike. Airea also announces their new Cargo tandem wing, an all-new DHV 1-2 design that they are very excited about. According to che manufacturer the Cargo performs much like a solo wing. Contact Airea USA for the dealer nearest you, a demo flight, or additional information: Airea USA, 2401 Whitewater Creek Rd., Whitewater, CO 81527 (970) 256-7633 (phone/fax), airea@gj.net, www.airea.de.

Aspen hang gliding and paragliding event. We are sad to report that Frank drowned in the Merced River in Yosemite Valley while trying co avoid arrest after making a BASE jump from El Capitan. Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends.

AmPLAY PARAGLIDING NEWS

WEATHER TO FLY VIDEO

aul Hamilton has produced a muchneeded instructional video on meteorology, Weather To Fly. Dixon White, Master pilot and USHGA Examiner, cakes the viewer through a simple step-by-step process showing where co acquire weather data and how co interpret it. This video will help pilots of any aircraft understand more about modeling and forecasting. You'll learn about regional and local influences and how to determine winds aloft and stability. Weather To Fly is 60 minutes of one useful detail after another and includes great cloud footage. le is a scraighcforward presentation char is easy co follow. The video sells for $39.95. Contact: Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions, (775) 747-0175, www.adventurep.com, or Dixon White, Airplay Paragliding, (509) 782-5543, dixon@paraglide.com.

irplay Paragliding is now importing Windtech paragliders. After reading some impressive reviews this spring they ordered the beginner, intermediate, tandem and sport-class gliders manufactured by this four-year-old company in Spain. The folks at Airplay were immediately impressed with che quality of conscruccion, handling, security and performance of these gliders, and have expanded cheir company to include this glider line. For complete specifications visit www.paraglide.com. Airplay also carries Advance, Up, Nova, Firebird, Gin, Edel, Airea and Ozone gliders. For a dealer in your area or more information contacc: Airplay Paragliding, (509) 782-5543, dixon@paraglide.com, www.paraglide.com.

11 (800) PARA.GLIDE BEGINS TtHS FALL (800) Paraglide will become a national referral number for paragliding schools around che U.S. Potential students will be able to call l (800) Paraglide and immediately connect with a school in that area. The number is routed directly to the closest network member. Cooperative advertising and marketing with an economy of scale will be possible. To find out more about becoming a network member in your area contact David Glover at (706) 657-8485, david@davidglover.com.

BASE JUMPEIR FRANK GAMBAl.H: DROWNS n the July/August issue of Paraglidingwe

announced that world-famous BASE jumper Frank Gambalie would make an appearance ac the Red Bull Wings Over

HIGH ENERGY SPORTS WEB PAGE igh Energy Sports is pleased co announce that they have a Web site up and running. Visit them ac http://HiEnergy.icop.nec (case sensitive).

ESCAPE Y2K CHAOS WITH DAVIE AND CHRIS

oin Dave Bridges and Chris Santacroce this winter for a paragliding adventure in sunny Mexico. This is their fifth annual Mexican Extravaganza and they expect it to be their best yec. Enjoy consistent summerlike flying at a variety of sites around the Mexico City area. Valle de Bravo, Tisca and Malinalco are on che agenda chis year. Good thermaling and excellent cross-country potential are che norm at these sites in January. This is not just a site-guiding trip; chey will be providing comprehensive thermal and X-C clinics as well as thorough instruction in active flying and basic maneuvers. You'll learn from two of North America's best pilots. Conditions are appropriate for a

broad variety of experience levels, a P2 rating with 50 flights being the minimum requirement. You may attend for one week or all three, but space is limited so make reservations soon. For more information contact: Chris Santacroce (80 I) 255-9595, chris@firebirdusa.com, or Dave Bridges (970) 9257625, fly@aspen.com, Aspen Paragliding, 426 S. Spring St., Aspen, CO 81611, www.aspen.com/ paragliding/.

FLY ECUADOR THIS WINTER oin Thermal Tracker Paragliding for their fifth annual adventure/flying tour of the cuadorian High Andes. You'll make multi-hour-long flights over warm coastal beaches and fly from 12,000-fooc Andean launches. You'll experience true South American culture and flying wich local pilots and guides, as well as five-time winter escapee Kevin Lee. Group size is limited co promote quality so early reservations are recommended. Past participant referrals are available. Contact Kevin Lee at Thermal Tracker Paragliding for dates and reservations: (541) 955-1737, Thermaltracker@bigfoot.com.

THERMAL TRACKER !RADIO HARNESS

hermal Tracker Paragliding continues co offer one of the highest quality radio harnesses available for paraglider pilots, and now offers the Alinco DJ-191T hand-held VHF transceiver ac competitive prices, depending on options ordered. The Alinco offers quality and features ac an affordable price: large illuminated display, 40 memory positions, battery save function, lockable keypad, and high or low transmit output for conserving the battery. Also available are AA battery cases, PTT finger switches, antennas, and other accessories for most popular radios. The Conterra Radio Harness is designed to hold che radio against your body comfortably, keeping it from tangling in your chest strap, etc. Added to the side is storage space for spare bacceries, cell phone, power bars, etc. Contact: Thermal Tracker Paragliding, (541) 955-1737, Thermal tracker@bigfoot.co m.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

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~~Jii~il USHGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGION 1 Bill Boloski (R - 00) 24622 SE irrormont Dr Issaquah WA 98027 (425) 557-7981 bolosky@microsoft.com Steve Roti ~R - 99) 3024 NE 18 Ave Portland OR 97212 (503) 284-0995 paragliding@compuserve.com Paul Kiemond (L - 99) (PG Accident Chai() 3612 NE 43rd St Seattle WA 98105 (206) 525-5765 paul@kurious.org Gene Matthews (H - 00) 15308 11 fh 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 Wai< #22 Carson City NV 89 06 (775) 883-7070 advspts@pyramid.net Russ Locke (R - 99) 868 S Mary Ave Sunnyvale CA 94087 (408) 737-8745 russlocke@juno.com Scott Gasparian (R- 99) PO Box 1027 Pacifica, CA 94044-6027 (650) 218-3984 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 40 1h Ave San Francisco CA 94122 (41 5) 753-9534 kennyb2u@aol.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 (71 ~ 098-6359 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 (949) 888-7464 fax 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 (07112/99)

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

David Glover (H - 99) 1696 Creek Rd Wildwood GA 30757 (706) 675-8485 david@davidglover.com

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

Gre~ De Wolf (H - 99) PO ox 1268 Stanardsville VA 22973 (804) 990-9071 DeWolf7@aol.com

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 ~51) 450-0930 umulusMan@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

John Harris (H - 00) PO Box 1839 Nags Head NC 27959 (252) 441-4124 ucanfly@outer-banks.com Steve Kroop (H - 00) 6106 NW 128th St Gainesville FL 32653 (352) 331-6729 usaflytec@aol.com REGION 11 Dave Broyles (R - 99) 211 Ellis Dr Allen TX 75002 (972) 727-3588 broydg@home.net REGION 12 Paul Voight (R - 00) 5163 Searsville Rd Pine Bush NY 12566 w14) 744-3317 yhigh@frontiernet.net Jan Johnson (L - 99) 70 King Rd Middletown NY 10941 (914) 695-8747 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) 74 7-7845 larslinde@compuserve.com

Dennis Pajen (L - 99) RD 3 Box 548 Spring Mills PA 16875 (814) 422-0589 hm pagenbks@lazerlink.com

REGION 13 (lnt'I) Jan Johnson (L - 99) See Reg 12

Chris DuPaul (H-00) PO Box 204 Nags Head NC 27959 (252) 480-854 7 Krisdupaul@aol.com

Michael Robertson (H - 00) RR 5 865 Con 7 Claremont Ontario Canada L 1Y 1A2 (905) 294-2536 flyhigh@inforamp.net

Art Greenfield (X) 1815 N Ft Meyer Dr Ste 700 Arlington VA 22209 (703) 527-0226 awgreenfield@naa-usa.org 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 fly@hanglide.com

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FOREIGN SOARIN'

Paragliding in the

Flying on the east coast of the US. can be tough. The sites are generally narrow slots cut out of the forest by the hang glider pilots who pioneered them. While we are always grate.fol any time our feet leave the ground, when we visit other sites where the launches are huge and it's not necessary to fold in your wing tips to successfully launch out ofa narrow slot, the contrast is always a pleasant surprise.

Group photo for High Flight Week 2. o, it was really enjoyable when I took a three-week vacation in the Tyrol area of Austria. Combining a family vacation with a one-week paragliding school experience resulted in a wonderful opportuniry to fly some of the most beautiful sites in the Austrian Alps. Helmut Walder, owner of Flugschule Wildschonau, sponsors a number of weeklong schools and seminars all summer long. They range from beginner courses, through intermediate rating courses, to more advanced courses such as HighFlight Weeks 1 and 2, cross-country, thermal, Sicherheits training, and tours to South Africa, Italy and Portugal.

S 34

I am extremely impressed with the qualiry of the instructors and the professional manner in which Helmut runs all of his schools and seminars. His goal is to help you have as much fun as possible while maintaining his 100% perfect safery record. While German is their first language, the instructors all handle English just fine. In more than five trips through Germany, Austria and Switzerland I have found that a few phrases in German, such as "please" and "thank you," go a very long way. Almost everyone knows some English, making communication no problem at all. The instructors for each class normally

spend the first day on the local 2,000-foot training hill to evaluate the flying abiliry of each student. This separates the wannabees from the folks who correctly report their flying abiliry. From then on they continue to evaluate demonstrated flying abiliry and make site and launch decisions based on the group's abiliry. This means that selecting the proper course is somewhat important so that you don't get in over your head. Two years ago I attended High-Flight Week 1 during which we flew stunningly beautiful Alpine sites. The instructors were careful ro ensure that the conditions and sites flown never exceeded anyone's abiliry. Since I had never before flown in the Alps this was exactly the correct choice for me, as anything more challenging might have created a problem. The flying was wonderful, the sites were challenging and I had a great nme. Last year I decided to try High-Flight Week 2 to try a different set of flying sites. The flying abiliry requirements for Week 2 are more rigorous than those for the previous course, and the sites flown demand it. HIGH FLIGHT WEEK MARKBACHJOCH The week begins on Sunday morning. Meeting at the Harfenwirt Hotel, the group gathers at 10:00 AM. We sort out the introductions and get an overview of the plan for the week. Today, as expected, we will be flying at Markbachjoch, the 2,000-foot mountain just a four-minute walk down the street. One of the great things about flying in the Alps is that the cable cars run year-round, making the trip up to launch a very pleasant one. Since I had arranged with Helmut to use my time to try a number of different wings, today I am flying a Pro Design Relax. My old wing, an Edel Super Space II, is a great, reliable wing, but I am shopping for something a bit newer in design that has more response. The winds at Markbachjoch are zero to three mph straight in. There is rain and generally nasry conditions at Zillertal about 30 miles over the back of our launch site. The way in which each valley has its own meteorology is fascinating. Hannes and Elisabeth are able to judge safe limits for flying perfectly. We set up and launch, getting about 15-minute flights in weak conditions.

PARAGLIDING

There are a few miniature pines about two feet high but they are just barely hanging on to the rocky slope. The ground cover is primarily grass and lichen. In the valley it is 65° F but on top we have light snow. Sweating your ears off from a climb at 7,100 feet is an interesting situation to be in. Luckily we are planning to go right back down, otherwise it could get cold very quickly. Everyone launches and I get about 35 minutes worth of a sled ride. At the bottom everyone makes the LZ with no problems.

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ZILLERTAL-ARBISKOPF The cable car ride back up is interesting. I share the car with two German pilots. In our conversation they ask me if I am in the U.S. military. Ir turns out that a U.S. Marine aircraft had just finished cutting an Italian cable car wire, killing 20 people. They were only slightly joking when they asked if I was going to cry to cut any cable car wires here in Austria! Back at launch Elisabeth reporrs chat the weather conditions at all of the area high sites are rainy with high winds. The almost legendary ability of Markbachjoch to be flyable when everywhere else is blown out holds true for today. We sec up for another flight. I meet Peter Henderson-Doe, a British pilot who has been flying in the area for about three years and loves every minute of it. Peter is a British expatriate living in the Munich area. For the rest of the week Peter fills in the details of the site briefings when my German comes up short. I get three more flights from Markbachjoch, totaling about 70 minutes. It is mostly a ridge-lift day, but there are some interesting thermals popping up over the town. The Relax is an interesting wing. In comparison to my old wing it offers more feedback and can turn a lot faster. The weather overcomes the Markbachjoch legend and the rain begins. Since the LZ is a two-minute walk from the Harfenwirt Hotel, we all gather there to have a late lunch and a beer.

KREUTZJOCH Today we head for the Zillertal Valley co a place called Kreutzjoch. The 1994 World Cup meet was held at this 4,300-fooc verSEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

tical site. The launch is a huge, wide-open hillside that is so big everyone is able to lay out at the same time. The mandatory trip to the LZ before flying discloses that there are high-voltage power lines and a river along three sides of the LZ. Peter and I decide that this LZ will definitely get our full attention when landing! Conditions are very light. Waiting for a cycle, we launch. We get a 25-minute sled ride, but oh boy what a ride it is. The area once again is beautiful. The Ziller Valley has a number of great sites and we can see three of them from here. The hillsides are covered in trees with plentiful farms scattered throughout in case an emergency landing is required. The mountain chalets dotting the hillside complete the view. Climbing back into the van we head back up for another flight. This rime we drive past the previous launch site and go up as far as the snow lees us. Once the road becomes impassable we load up our wings and walk up the mountain in the snow for another 45 minutes. This launch site is 5,285 feet above the LZ, at 7, 110 feet MSL. There is lots of snow, with the wind coming straight in at about five to eight mph. Everything has a completely different look up here. Nothing much grows higher than about 12 inches call.

1999

Located at the end of the Zillertal valley on the Zillertaler Hohenstrase, this driveup, 2,133-meter site is one of the few places where you will find hang gliders. Since cable cars are typically the only method of getting to many of the launch sites, being a paraglider pilot is a definite advantage. The snow continues to fall, although it doesn't stick at all. Last year when we tried to fly here the wind was too strong. We were able to launch from a more sheltered site down the mountain a bit, salvaging the flying day. The 4,604-foot vertical distance to the

open field and everyone makes it with no problem.

wide-open LZ at Schwendau offers a 20minute sled ride. Once at the bottom we learn that the elder pilot in our group, a 71-year-old German named Henry, blew a launch at the high launch at Kreutzjoch and might have injured something. He pushes on though, and since conditions are becoming overdeveloped we head for home.

The next day we jump in the van and head for Kufstein overlooking the town of Kufstein as well as the beautiful Fortress Kufstein. This site is 2,493 feet above the LZ. Situated in the Inn valley, the view is spectacular. We are just in front of the Wildkaiser Mountains, overlooking Kufstein and Kieferfelden. Germany is visible at the end of the valley with Bad Aibling and Rosenheim visible on a clear day. But again we have clouds. The forecast is for northwest winds changing to southwest and a chance of rain when the front comes through. Festung Kufstein is in the city below and is a nice fortress to spend an afternoon in. They have a museum set up inside with lots of artifacts on display. Visiting an area with such a wealth of history really brings home just how young the U.S. is. The wooded slot launch brings back memories of east-coast flying, although in this slot no wing tip folding is necessary. Conditions are zero to two mph and everyone manages a launch out of the slot and over the trees. Once in the air the beauty of the area is again apparent. I head out and try to get some pictures of the Fortress Kufstein. The LZ is a huge

ZILLERTALSTEINERHOF Located at the mouth of the Zillertal Valley, this 1,750foot flying site is primarily a thermal site. The launch is a nice open area that can accommodate three or four gliders at a time. Some really great flights can be had here if the wind conditions are right. The Zillercal Valley is about two or three miles wide at this point, and when the valley winds work well you can fly some great circuit courses. Elisabeth is concerned that the rain clouds we were experiencing up the valley at Arbiskopf might prove to be a real problem at Steinerhof. When it rains at the closed end of a valley it causes the air to rush in from the mouth of the valley, and this can result in some dangerous and quickly changing wind conditions all along the valley's length. Elisabeth will be keeping a very close eye on the conditions and warns us all to watch for changes in the air. It is sunny and nice here, but we can see the weather forming just up the valley. Wow! The thermals are working exactly right in combination with the valley winds, and I am able to make the valley

crossing and return. There are thermals popping nicely just at launch so I work my way up to the top of the mountain there. Once up I head for the mouth of the Zillertal Valley. At the mouth I work up to 4,500 feet over the valley floor in preparation for a valley crossing. On the way up I find reliable thermals producing 1,000 fpm sustained lift. While most are in the 400-600 fpm range, the big guys are a real kick in the pants when you find them. I get a few 30% collapses and lots of smaller crinklies. While circling in a thermal I get a textbook-perfect 60% collapse just as I am heading toward the mountain. Steer and clear does the trick and I continue flying. The valley crossing is uneventful. I find small thermals along the way and manage to make it to the other side and return. Back where I started, I am now about halfway down the mountain, and getting just a little bit airsick from all the rock-and-roll thermals. Working my back to the LZ I don't argue when I lose altitude. After an hour and 10-minute flight the LZ is an easy target and the landing goes very smoothly. Two other pilots had also made great flights. One went over the back of the ridge we were flying and worked thermals all the way around the end of the ridge and back into the Zillertal Valley. The second pilot was able to get lots of altitude and work his way out into the Inn Valley and back. After a really great day we head

PARAGLIDING

• Yesterday's Technology

Looking.from Hohe Salve toward the Inn Valley. back to the Harfenwirt for dinner. ACHENSEE-ROFAN Everyone gathers this morning at the Harfenwirr. We learn that Henry, the 7 1year-old German pilot, will not be flying with us for the rest of the week. It turns out that when he tripped at ZillertalArbiskopf he broke three ribs, but continued to fly for the rest of the day. They sure make some tough pilots over here! Today we are heading for AchenseeRofan . The weather forecast is for Fohn conditions, so we will be watching the flying conditions closely. Fohn is an interesting weather condition in which strong southerly winds blast up from Italy and the Mediterranean. This results in 70+ mph winds that shut down the cable cars and preclude any fantasies about flying. Dennis Pagen discusses Fohn in his weather books if you are interested in learning more. Hopefully, we won't be impacted by the Fohn today. Achensee is a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by high, snowcapped peaks. The water is the most wonderful crystal blue I have ever seen. The rugged mounrains surrounding the soft lake produce a spectacular vista. There are at least three launch sites available for paragliders. There are two served by the Rofan Seilbahn (cable car) and another across rhe lake that has a different cable car which runs to the top. To say that the view is great is a vast understatement. Even the locals, who fly the Alps as a matter of routine, consider Achensee to be one of the most beautiful sites in the area. This 2,952-foot vertical (5,980 feet MSL) SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

site works in both easterly and westerly winds; you just go to the other side of the lake and launch from there if the wind is wrong. However, be exceptionally careful of valley winds that can roar through the small gap between the two sites. Local site knowledge provided by Helmut and his instructors makes for a safe, enjoyable flight. We fly from the launch closest to the Rofan Seilbahn. The other launch is typically used for SIV training. The students fly over Achensee, perform their designated maneuvers, and hope they don't end up in the cold, cold water. After a 15-minute flight over some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable we reach the LZ. Except for one in our group who manages to fly his wing exactly onto the metal pipe that supporrs the windsock, everyone makes the LZ without incident. We regretfully leave Achensee to visit our second site of the day. HOHE-SALVE Hohe-Salve (High Salvation) is a 2,986foot vertical (4 ,934 feet MSL) site just at the end of the Wildschonau Valley. The weather today is actually sunny and nice. The Fohn might not make a difference when it comes to our flying. The LZ is a somewhat small parch of grass sandwiched between a river and a small 700-foor, rreelined hill. Depending on the wind direction you might have to zip in over a farmhouse and skim down a small slope to hit the LZ. The approach looks harder than it really is, as the farmho use actually makes a great reference point for setting up your landing. At the end of the field there is a barbed-wire fence marking the start of the

1999

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next farmer's property. We are cautioned not to land there, as he isn't fond of paraglider pilots. Normally, getting to the top ofHohe-Salve takes 45 minutes and three different chair lifts. But today they are doing maintenance on the lifts so we drive up. Launch is a steep hillside covered in grass and alpine flowers. The view is amazing. You can see the Wildschonau Valley and the Inn River Valley, and there is a 180-degree view over to Westendorf Midday conditions differ in every valley. Today we have mostly sunny conditions with interesting indications of thermals in the valley in front of us. The wind comes up the valley and pops off some huge thermals; we can see the clouds forming from the rising air. We all launch and get 15-minute flights. There are a few small thermals but nothing that is workable. Helmut checks the weather and determines that all of the sites in the area are blown out or the wind is blowing the wrong direction, so we head back to the Wildschonau Valley to fly in the triedand-true conditions there.

MARKBACHJOCH By this time we are clearly competent pilots. We are given a handful of lift tick-

ets and are told to have fun for the rest of the afternoon. At launch conditions continue to be as weird as they were all day. The Fohn has messed up the micrometeorology in the valleys, making conditions unpredictable. At launch it is almost dead, with occasional gusts from over the back. There are huge cumies visible over the valley but the wind is almost nonexistent. I wait for a good cycle and launch. Talk about unpredictable! I end up finding 800 to 900 fpm thermals all over the place. After 40 minutes of thermal flying I am able to log a 1, 100-foot altitude gain from a site that is considered to be a training hill for new students. The thermals are just sweeping up the face of the mountain. The cycles I was feeling at launch were the side effects of thermals blasting skyward. Overall, it is an absolutely great flight to cap off a great day.

THE FOHN STRIKES

THE FOHN STRIKES - PART ZWEI It was probably predictable. Since the Fohn is a southerly wind from the Mediterranean, all of the moist air rising up the mountains and cooling creates rain . Gathering at the Harfenwirt in the rain we learn that flying for the day is canceled, but there will be two extra days added at the end of the week to make up for the lost days. The delay is a bit of a problem for Peter, as he must leave tomorrow, but there are four of us who will be ab le to fly. Mr. Flexibility packs the family off to see Innsbruck.

STUBAI VALLEY Even though it is raining today in Niederau we pack up in the van and head for Srubaital to fly that famous site. At Srubai it is partly sunny with cumies building up the valley. The forecast indicates the potential for thunderstorms late in the day, so watching the weather conditions is again important. Hannes stops at the local paragliding shop called ParaFly and pays our site fees. Using our allday lift card we ride the "11-er" (pronounced "elf-er") lift to the top. This 2,923-foot vertical site (6,000 feet MSL) is a huge grass-covered hillside where everyone is able to lay out at the same time. There are a number of local hotdogs performing for the crowd, doing cravattes just seconds after they launch. We just shake our heads and smile. Finding a few small thermals results in a half-hour flight. Wow, this is the life! The thermals are just starting for the day and we have an all-day lift card. It is not hard to learn to enjoy flying, riding the

Again gathering at the Harfenwirt for the morning briefing we learn that Fohn winds of 60 to 70 kilometers per hour are predicted this day. Flying is canceled for the day. Since flexibility is my middle name, I pack the family off for sightseeing and hiking at Rofan. The view is great as we hike about an hour along ,_..,...,..-,,.- ,------ - - = - --.,....- ........""""" the side of the mountain to a restaurant that is absolutely packed. It really amazes us that anyone can make a living with a restaurant in a place where you have to walk for an hour on a 6,000-foot mountain to get to it, but they are serving up great food to the crowd as fast as they can cook it. I am glad we didn't try to fly anywhere, as we are almost blown off the mountain by huge gusts of wind as we hike the trails. Launching at Rofan.

PARAGLIDING

cable car co the cop, and flying again. At the Startplatz, Hannes says he is worried about the rain visible under the clouds just up the valley. As ac ocher sites, rain falling at the closed end of a valley can radically change flying conditions throughout the entire valley. We launch with instructions to quickly head for the LZ. Conditions are actually not bad. The clouds are building quickly overhead but the air is relatively smooch. About halfway down, Hannes flies over to me and motions for me to look at the rain in the air just up the valley. It is really coming down in buckets up there. He then motions for me co head for the LZ immediately. Everyone else had come co the same conclusion, as there are about I 0 pilots trying to land all at once. Down lower there are definite wind gusts that make coming down difficult. I use big ears, and then try even bigger ears, buc the vario keeps telling me up, up, up. B-lines result in the needed altitude reduction, bur down here the wind speed is definitely higher. I head for the LZ and sandwich myself into a spot between the other pilots. The wind has changed so much that I am almost flying straight down with no forward ground speed at all. There are still IO co 15 gliders in the air, but most of chem are heading for the LZ. The weather is really turning bad quickly and I pack up to try co miss the coming ram. A crack of thunder rolls down che valley and the final two high-flying pilocs spiral dive down and head for the LZ. About four minutes lacer the rain arrives and we make a run for the van. A great day of fun flying!

ALPBACHTAL Sunday is our final day of the two extra days added to make up for the weather problems earlier in the week. We head for Alpbachtal, a site just over the back from Niederau. The LZ is slightly challenging as the usable pares of it consist of a narrow scrip of high grass sloped such chat it is almost a side-hill landing. The wind today requires setting up over a school and then coming in over some high trees into the LZ. We head for the top of chis 3,032-foot vertical (6,002 feet MSL) site. Again, the view is spectacular! The Alpbachtal Valley is laid out before us.

Continued on page 52 . . Launching from Stubai. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

FLYING SITES

POINT OF THE MOUNTAIN, UTAH article and photos by Debbie Webb Halbach Imagine arising from your sleeping bag at dawn on a warming summer morning, grabbing your gear and strolling 100 yards to launch in a valley surrounded by snowcapped mountains. Top this by ending the day soaring into the sunset a short mile's drive to the opposite side ofthe ridge. This could only the Point ofthe Mountain, Utah.

he "Point" is a unique peninsula protruding west from the famous Wasatch Mountain range. World renowned as an exceptional paragliding and hang gliding site, it is minutes away from Salt Lake City as well as the beautiful canyon resorts of Alta, Snowbird, Brighton and Park City. Easy access and predictable, smooth conditions create an excellent year-round site. Ridge lift predominates here with some thermal activity. The Great Salt Lake can even imitate ocean coastal-breeze patterns in warm weather. There are two sides to the Salt Lake County Flight Park. Each side has drive-up access to all launches and LZ's. Situated at 5,300 feet MSL, the "South Side" is a famous training site and is usually flown in the consistent south morning winds, or all day in prefrontal conditions. Paraglider pilots should launch west of the windsock in a maximum of 18-mph winds for Para 2 and 22 mph for Para 3-rated pilots. More experienced pilots can soar in stronger conditions due

to the smooth terrain that produces little turbulence. The LZ is a broad field 300 feet below. (Avoid landing in the lower hang gliding training area.) Top landings are possible and should also be attempted to the west for rated pilots. This site is great for beginner pilots as there is less turbulence here than on the more challenging "North. Side." A short drive around the ridge takes you to the northwest-facing shelf of the ridge called the "North Side." As with the "South Side," there are few obstacles and large top-landing and LZ areas . The lower ridge, or "bench," has separate paragliding and hang gliding launch sites. Set up and preflight should be done outside the immediate launch area. Regulations are posted as well as a recommended flight pattern for the lower bench. Beware of hang gliders landing on the bench area. Maximum recommended wind speed for paragliders is 18 mph or 15 mph with turbulence. Beware of the gullies as they will produce rotors with crosswinds . When in doubt, consult a

ABOVE AND BELOW Demo Days on the South Side.

The "Bench" on the North Side.

local pilot, always. More advanced pilots can "bench up" Traverse Mountain, a two-mile, 1,200foot-high slope rising behind the lower ridge or bench. This ridge offers good soaring with consistent lift, but winds can build quickly. Be careful not to get blown back over the top! Although top-landings are possible on the bench, a safer LZ is the large field in front and approximately 300 feet below this lower ridge. Here the winds are more consistent with few obstacles. Unfortunately, this area is currently at risk of development in this popular growth region and the local UHGA is working hard to preserve it. (See the May/June issue of Paragliding magazine, "Airmail," for info on how you can help.) Pickup by vehicle from this lower LZ is via a dirt road along Highland Drive near the Blue Sky Ranch . In consistent, lateafternoon winds, a pilot can soar for hours 1,000 to 2,000 feet above launch. When conditions are not ideal the mountain offers dirt roads and course sites for mountain biking, great rock climbing and skiing nearby from late

PARAGLIDING

LOCAL CONTACT: Steve Mayer, UHGA President UHGA, P.O. Box 757 Draper, Utah 84020 (801) 553-1834 E-mail: info@paragliders.com Wind Conditions: (801) 633-1524

SCHOOLS AND BUSINESSES: Cloud 9 Paragliding/ U.S. Importer for SOL paragliding gear Steve Mayer 9630 S. Mumford Dr. Sandy, Utah 84094 (801) 553-1834 Mobile: 860-UTAH E-mail: mayer@utw.com Web site: www.paragliders.com The Soaring Center 12665 South Minuteman Dr. #1 Draper, Utah 84020 (801) 576-6460 E-mail: hbc3@aol.com

Chris Santacroce trying out a power unit on the South Side during Demo Days. November on into May. This very popular and versatile flying site can be easily viewed whether you approach by plane or car. Point of the Mountain is situated in Draper, 12 miles south of Salt Lake City, 27 miles south of the Salt Lake City Airport and 30 miles north of Provo. Since it lies just east of the busy interstate and adjacent Utah State Prison, the site affords a unique view from doudbase. Make sure you don't overshoot the LZ and land within the prison walls. You may never get out! Take Exit #291 from Interstate 15 to the frontage road, Minuteman Drive. For "South Side" access, turn right (south) along Minuteman for two miles, following "Flight Park" signs, and turn left on a dirt road that may require four-wheeldrive during mud season. Watch for trucks in this area. The south-facing launch and LZ will be on the left as you ascend. To access the "North Side" launch you can drive over the ridge from the south launch, or exit to the east at the same Draper/Bluffdale Exit #291, then proceed straight up Highland Drive. Turn right on Traverse Ridge Road then right on Steep Mountain Drive. Proceed SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

slowly through this busy family neighborhood. This new development is typical of the suburban growth that Salt Lake City is experiencing, and which is directly affecting the continued use of the Point by paraglider and hang glider pilots. Two miles from the I #15 exit you will reach the Flight Park at the end of Steep Mountain Drive. The site is regulated by the Utah HGA. Helmets are required and reserve parachutes recommended. You must be a USHGA and UHGA current member with at least a Novice rating, or under the direct supervision of a UHGA approved instructor. A membership can be purchased for $IO/day or $35/year from a UHGA member or one of the schools listed below. When flying conditions are good there is always a friendly local pilot at this busy site. After a long day of incredible flying on both sides of the mountain, even the view of the freeway, prison and construction projects seems to fade away. What remains as you open a cold one and watch the setting sun amidst snowcapped mountains is the experience and the friends you made flying "The Point." II

1999

Two Can Fly Ken Hudonjotgensen 474 East 9950 South Sandy, Utah 84070 (801) 486-4504

ACCOMMODATIONS: Camping: South Side only, minimal amenities. Please help pick up trash. Bring your own toilet paper! Hotels/Motels: Draper, Exit #294 (three miles north of the Point exit) Econolodge (801) 571-1122 Travelodge (801) 572-1200 Holiday Inn (801) 572-1122 Also various restaurants and grocery store Sandy, Exit #297 (four miles N of the Point exit) Marriott Suites (SO 1) 571-3600 Comfort Inn (801) 255-4919 Sleep Inn (801) 572-2020 Super 8 Motel (801) 553-8888 Best Western Cottontree Inn (801) 523-8484 Residence Inn (801) 561-5005 Quality Inn &Suites (801) 563-1151 *Local favorite: Extended Stay America (800) EXT-STAY Approximately $199/week with kitchens Also restaurants, South Towne Mall, Walmart and theaters Visitor Information: (800) ALL-UTAH

thought would be fun and safe while testing out a new wing. I wanted to kite the glider for a while on launch to get a feel for it, bur conditions were up and down which made it difficult. In light conditions, when I felt the Adas might stay over my head, the Promise seemed like it wanted to fall back. I had to stay on the /\s or move into the wind more than I was used to. My student and by Kari Castle friend was kiting his Atlas while I groundhandled the Promise. We both started getBilly Bad Bones at No Limits Paragliding asked me to ting lift and simultaneously turned to review of Edel's new DHV 2-rated glider, the Promise. I was weary, launch. It was time to forget ground-handling and fly; it was soarable! Launching was easy and the glider felt as I am very content flying my DHV I Atlas. A few years ago I very friendly and predictable. Once in the decided to fly a safe, stable wing, which is certainly the best way to air I felt the added "zip" of the Promise as compared to my Atlas, and turning was a describe the Atlas. I wondered I could still handle such a high-per- bit easier. The Promise climbed a little faster and I was instantly on top of the stack. (That's always a good thing while testing a formance glider (wink). new glider.) The air had a spring texture to it - small bullet thermals. It was easy to took on the assignment as a challenge out once you let go of the lines. One quick feel the thermals, slow down and start turnsince I've always wanted to test equippump and they were out on the Promise. I ing in time to take advantage of those pesky was so pleased that a glider with higher per- little things. I enjoyed the ease of putting ment and write reviews. (I'm such a formance and quicker response could be so critic!) I found myself at an Edel-sponthe Promise on a wing tip for the small tractable. It certainly inspired my confisored Advanced Maneuvers Clinic at Lake cores. Havasu in Arizona, administered by Phill dence. While my friends landed I enjoyed a Hirst with help from quiet flight. I chose not to fly Sonny, Mitch McA!eer with a vario so I could feel the and the rest of the No glider and not be distracted. I Limits Paragliding had the hill all to myself and Ultimate Tow Crew. was working my way down, This was the perfect eking out eve1y bit of lift, checking the roll response and time and place to try out the Promise, as I sink rate. The Promise performed well, keeping me prepared to fly the Owen's Valley. afloat until a really nice bubI had just finished ble came through. I decided performing all the I'd do figure-eights until I was maneuvers on the Lake Havasu maneuvers clinic. back above the hill, then Arias, so I was warmed locked the Promise into the Photo by Aaron Frizzel. up and feeling confismooth core. Then I got cold. dent. (Phill had to With all that altitude I force me to do some decided to fly out over the of the maneuvers, as valley and practice some melthey scare the hell out low maneuvers. I must have of me!) The two been hypoxic, as this is not flights I had on the like me! I had close to 3,000 Promise went smoothfeet with which to play. ly. I felt the only difAsymmetries, leading edge ferences between the Kiting on Flynn's collapses, big ears and tight Adas and the Promise !dunch. Photos by spirals made up the show for were the obvious speed Todd Vogel. the day. Okay, I'm a wimp, next time I'll do The ultimate test would be flying the difference and the fact Promise in the rowdy Owen's Valley air. B-lines - no negatives or full stalls, howevthat the Promise seems to hold big ears betOnly one problem - I don't do that anyer. I'll save those for over the water. I would ter than the Atlas. The Adas comes right more. Instead, I chose suitable air that I have done a deeper spiral bur my "jury-rig"

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speed bar tie job came apart the first time I stepped on it. Which reminds me, Edel's setup has a new type of clip. The problem I see is that you should have the matching clip on your speed bar setup to hook on the riser clip. If you don't have one, be prepared to tie a better knot than I did. I did some teeny, tiny wingovers on the way down They are so much fun! The glider definitely retains speed nicely and felt solid throughout, even though my timing was a little off. It felt as if someone who knew what he was doing gave it a go the speed and handling would work well for them. Landing on the spot was a breeze. It felt really good to come in hands up and actually glide across the ground with speed. (Okay, I admit that I'm a hang glider pilot who loves speed on final.) This ended a really fun flight on the new glider. In my opinion, this glider has promise-.

LESSONS LEARNED IN THE OWEN'S I learned a valuable lesson the next time I went out to fly the Promise. The weather

had been lousy for weeks following my wonderful test flight, and windy seemed to be the norm all across the U.S. this spring. We finally had a break from the wind and I was anxious to finish this review in time for the magazine deadline. All I needed were some photos. Some of my students had cameras ready in hand, and I finished by telling them, "Today is not a day to play close to the hill because of the gust factor on launch. Take off and get away from the hill if you decide to fly." This was the old "do as I say, not as I do" adage. What did I do? Played close to the hill on launch, just to get the silly photos of me kiting the Promise, that is until a gust/thermal rolled through launch, picking me up a few feet. I thought to myself, "Okay, been there, done this before. I'll simply turn around and launch." The wind whispered in my ear, "Not now, little rag doll. You're going for a ground slammer." I got spit out the back side of the gust/thermal just as fast as it came in, and was thrown to the ground next to launch. I suffered a skinned nose, blown ACL and a very bruised ego. I hobbled away with one thought in mind:

Practice what you preach!

Kari Castle was the 1996-1997 Women's World Hang Gliding Champion, the 1997 US. Women's National Hang Gliding Champion (nine times), the 1995 overall Canadian National Champion, and the 1995 US. Women's Paragliding National Champion. Contact information: No Limits Paragliding 3620 Wawona Street San Francisco, CA 94116 Phone: (415) 759-9011 Fax: (415) 759-1182 E-mail: edelsky@c-zone.net Edel Southwest Service Center Mitch McAleer 29120 Melby Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92532-2300 Phone: (909) 674-8844 Fax: Call first E-mail: mmcaleer@ez2.net II

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in Seok Song formed Gin Gliders late last year and this year the company is manufacturing and selling a product line consisting of three wings: the Bolero (DHV 1 and AFNOR Standard), the Bonanza (DHV 2-3 and AFNOR Performance) and the Boomerang (AFNOR Competition). The owner's manual claims that "the Bolero is designed for all kinds of flying, from the first steps at the training slope via ridge soaring to thermaling and cross-country." Information available while the Bolero was being designed indicated that it was expected to be a DHV 1-2 wing, but the good news is that it tested out as a DHV l which means that it passed the most stringent tests thrown at it by the German test pilots. Don't be fooled by the rating. Although earlier DHV l gliders typically had performance and handling associated with beginner gliders, the Bolero has more in common in those areas with intermediate gliders. In terms of Gin Seok Song's previous Edel designs, think of the Bolero as combining the stability and safety of the Quantum or Atlas with the performance and handling of the Saber. MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION The Bolero sail material is Carrington I 080 doth (44 g/m2). Lines are Technora Superpolyaramid sheathed in polyester, quick links are from Maillon Rapide, and risers are pre-stretched nylon, 2,000pound soft finish. Gin Gliders come in yellow, blue, purple and white, and have a red logo on the undersurface. The wing is constructed with a singlecell rib structure, in other words, without the diagonal V-ribs that are used in many contemporary performance gliders including the Gin Bonanza. Single-cell construction results in a lighter-weight wing which is generally easier to inflate than heavier wings. Many current recreational gliders use color-coded lines on each riser, but the Bolero uses uniquely colored lines only on the A-risers, the outermost line on the B-risers (for easy access to the stabilizer to clear a "cravatte") and the brake lines. I generally prefer color-coded lines because they make it easier for me to identify the SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

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shown in the table below. All sizes have a flat aspect ratio of 4.73, a projected aspect ratio of 3.90, and 37 cells. All the test-flying I did was on the M size. My total flying weight during the tests was 85 kg, which put me just below the middle of the 80-95 kg weight range for that size.

lines while ground handling and flying. The risers are all black with the exception of the A-risers which have a red covering sewn on just below the quick links. All quick links have plastic inserts to hold the lines at the top of the links and to prevent the quick link nut from opening. The inserts are red for the A-risers and black for all the other risers. The combination of the red covering, the red plastic insert and the red A-lines makes it easy to identify the A-riser on the ground or in flight. The brake handles are also red for easy identification and are held in place with magnetic clasps rather than the metal snaps used on many other gliders. One unique feature of the Bolero riser system is the extra "big ears line" that replaces the split A-risers used on many other gliders. The big ears line runs from the bottom of the riser system up to the top of the A-riser where it is attached to a pulley. The outer A-line is routed through the pulley and the big ears line is

secured in place with a piece of velcro on the back of the A-riser. To initiate big ears the pilot grasps the line and pulls outward and downward. With split A-risers the pilot usually has to reach up to initiate big ears which can introduce slack in the brake lines, so the potential advantage of the big ears line is that the pilot doesn't need to reach as high and can maintain brake pressure throughout the maneuver. The line also makes it easier for smaller pilots with shorter arms to do big ears. The Bolero speed system uses the popular 3: 1 pulley linkage on the A-riser with approximately three inches of travel between the pulleys. The big ears line moves with the A-riser because the two are attached together with velcro. The glider comes with a T-shirt or hat, two-stage speed system stirrup, repair tape, speed system links and carabiners, glider protection bag, strap, ruck sack and stickers. The Bolero is available in five sizes as

Size

Scale Factor

0.92

0.96

M 1.00

L 1.04

1.08

23.5 21.4

25.6 23.3

27.7 25.3

30.0 27.3

32.4 29.5

60-75 132-165

70-85 154-187

80-95 176-209

90-110 198-242

105-125 231-275

Area (m2 ) Flat Projected

Weight Range Kg. Lbs.

INFLATION AND LAUNCHING I had the opportunity to take five testflights on the Bolero for a total of about three hours of airtime. The first two flights were in afternoon thermal conditions at a 2,400-foot MSL mountain site, and the last three were morning flights at Telluride which involved launching at 12,200 feet MSL. For the first two flights I reverse inflated the glider in 10-15 mph cycles and found it remarkably easy to get a good inflation even when the wind was switching direction and velocity in the launch area. I did not kite the glider for an extended period of time, choosing instead to turn and launch into the cycle. Light brake pressure was all I needed to feel confident that the glider was centered over my head and flying as I stepped off the hill. On the latter three launches I forward inflated the glider in light wind to no wind. In two of the cases the glider came up straight over my head and I was able to accelerate smoothly down the slope and into the air. In the other case, the glider came up pointed slightly off the fall line so I simply ran underneath it, applied a modest amount of brake to correct the direction of the glider, and was airborne in an additional step or two. No-wind launches at 12,200 feet are a good test of a glider's inflation and launch characteristics, and the Bolero passed the test with flying colors. The owner's manual states, "In lightwind or nil-wind conditions we recommend laying the glider out straight, according to its planform (no V or U shape needed)." Gin claims that "pressure distribution research has perfected the glider's inflation and reinflation characteristics" and my experience launching the Bolero supports that claim. IN-FLIGHT HANDLING In a word, nimble. Brake tension is light to moderate and the range of brake travel is relatively long, which suits my flying PARAGLIDING

comparable on the two gliders, but again he seemed to have a slight advantage in glide ratio. However, the difference was small enough that we ended up landing at the same spot. One last note about handling. I like a paraglider that gives me sensory information through the risers and brake lines about what's going on in the air. Unlike earlier generations of DHV 1 gliders, the Bolero gives its pilot ample feedback when entering and exiting thermals, making it easier to feel the lift

MANEUVERS During the test flights I tried big ears, spirals, B-line stalls and A-riser asymmetric collapses. Big ears were easy to initiate and hold with the Big Ear lines, and the ears reinflated briskly when I released the lines. Based on the comments about turning in the previous section, you'd expect that spirals would be easy to initiate and that was certainly my experience. Weight shift

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style. Compared to Gin Seok Song's previous Edel designs, the Bolero turns most like the Saber, which is to say that it's easy to initiate turns with weight shift and to control the turn rate with a modest amount of brake, although the brake tension is less on the Bolero than on the Saber. One of the test-flights at Telluride was a morning sled ride in smooth air, so I took the opportunity to make almost the entire flight with no brakes using only weight shift to control the glider. I found it trivial to turn the Bolero and to control the direction of flight with weight shift alone. Another one of the flights at Telluride was launched during the late morning with cloudbase at around 15,000 feet MSL. The thermals were strong (1,000 fpm on my averager) and I found it easy to center the Bolero in the core and climb up near cloudbase. Two other pilots thermaled up that day, one on a DHV 2 glider and one on a DHV 2-3 glider, and it seemed to me that the Bolero climbed just as well as they did. On one of the afternoon thermal flights I circled up in lighter thermals (300-500 fpm) side by side with a pilot on a DHV 2-3 wing. He seemed to have a very slight advantage in climb rate - of course, that could be due to flying technique and not to differences in the gliders. Then we both took off on a short cross-country jaunt. Speed seemed to be SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

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This produced a moderate surge as the glider resumed flight and I countered the surge with a small brake application. On the second B-line stall I held it for five seconds while the vario screamed downward, then released when the glider was stabilized over my head. This time there was no noticeable surge as the glider resumed normal flight. These were some of the easiest B-stalls I've ever done, not stressful in the least like those on some of the gliders I flew years ago. A-riser asymmetries were unremarkable, as I was able to counter the tendency to turn to the collapsed side with weight shift alone. Without weight shift the glider wanted to turn but didn't show a tendency to want to accelerate into a spiral.

Bolero riser system showing big ears line detached from A-riser. and progressive brake application put the glider into a moderate spiral that was sufficient to cause my sink alarm to squeal at 600-800 fpm down. Exit from the spiral by gradually easing up on the brake and weight shift was a piece of cake. I didn't try any steeper spiral dives. I did two B-line stalls. On the first one I pulled the B-risers down and quickly released them again while I was still rocking back and forth beneath the glider.

OWNER'S MANUAL The Bolero owner's manual is well-written and worth reading. It includes sections on flying in turbulence and on recovering from a flat spin, an asymmetric deflation, a frontal deflation, a cravatte, and a more complicated cascade of events. The recovery comments are thoughtful and practical, and in all cases the sections end with the suggestion, "Let the glider fly." This is good advice because, as the manual points out, "over-

corrections are many times worse than no input at all."

CONCLUSION If you'd asked me five years ago what I was looking for in a paraglider I probably would have answered "performance." If you ask me the same question now my answer is likely to be "fun." I know plenty of other pilots who have come to the same conclusion, that most of us are in the sport for recreation and that today's recreational gliders have plenty of performance for the flying we want to do. I recently had lunch with a competition pilot who, without any prompting from me, mentioned that he's thinking of getting a DHV 1-2 glider for his recreational flying because it has all the performance he needs outside of competition. How does this relate to the Bolero? Well, I had a blast test-flying the Bolero so I can confidently say that it is a fun recreational glider. I also had no problem thermaling up to cloudbase and flying crosscountry with other pilots, so I can say that it has plenty of performance. Does it live up to Gin's statement that it is " ... designed for all kinds of flying, from the first steps at the training slope via ridge soaring to thermaling and cross-country"? I believe it does. I consider the Bolero to be an excellent choice as a first glider for a new pilot, and there's no question in my mind that it has enough performance to provide years of enjoyable flying as the pilot learns to thermal and perhaps starts to fly crosscountry. The Bolero is not a glider that a pilot will quickly outgrow; it is a glider that offers plenty of room for growth for the recreational pilot. lffll

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PARAGLIDING

Why?

Continued.from page 39. We can see the Inn Valley, all of the Alpbachtal, and by looking across the mountain tops we can see Hohe-Salve and Westendorf. The snowcapped peaks are picture perfect. The launch gives us nice 25-minute flights. There are only a few thermals, but the view is spectacular. We quickly jump back in the cable car and set up for another flight. The weather intercedes again when severe overdevelopment exactly over our launch site results in Hannes canceling our second flight. We pack up and ride the cable car down. Hoping that the conditions will clear up we have lunch at a local restaurant. ZILLERTAL-STEINERHOF Conditions at Alpbachtal never clear up enough to fly so we head over the mountain to Steinerhof to see if we can reproduce the great flights of earlier in the week. Launching at 4:00 PM we get 25minute flights in weak thermals and head for the LZ. Wrapping up the great week we head for the Steinerhof restaurant and celebrate with food and beer. Ill

elmut Walder operates the Flugschule Wildschonau, Grafenweg 325, A-6314 Niederau Austria, telephone (from USA) 0 l 1-435337-63730, fax (from USA) Ol l-435337-65181, with the help of his highly experienced staff. They are dedicated to helping you have fun while maximizing your safety. They speak English with varying degrees of ability, but communication is never a problem. Their flying-site knowledge is exceptional! They are able to predict which site is "working" that day to maximize your flying fun. Their courses range from beginning student all the way through custom-designed tours. They keep you having fun while keeping you safe. Highly recommended individual attention. Visit http://flugschule.alpen.net/

The author over Kreutzjoch.

this wonderful Gastehaus. A mix of a hotel and a bed and breakfast, the Auhof provides exceptional hospitality. Rooms have shower, we, balcony, phone, a great bed with a feather duvet, an amazing view of three local flying sites, and a special friendliness that makes you feel right at home. Maria prepares meals that are out of this world. English is a second language here, but as usual, communication is always possible if you make the effort. Located almost at the top of the hillside across from Markbachjoch, a car is needed to get to and from town. Very special and highly recommended. Giistehaus Auhof, 6314 Wildschonau, Niederau 225, Austria, telephone (from USA) Oll-435339-8400. Rates vary depending on the season but generally range from AS500 to aroundAS950 (about $50-$95).

HOTEL HARFENWlRT e stayed at the Gastehaus Auhof and enjoyed every minute of it. Hans and Maria Koch are your hosts at

ill and Herbert Thaler, your hosts at the Hotel Harfenwirt, A-6314 iederau-Wildschonau , Austria, telephone (from USA) Ol 1-43-5339-8315,

fax (from USA) 011-43-5339-8754, offer a special (cheaper!) rate for pilots and their families. They offer a room with breakfast for only AS350 (less than $35), with no single room supplement. All their rooms are wonderful, offering TV, shower, WC, balcony, phone, radio, and a great bed with a feather duvet. English is spoken very well Qill is from Great Britain) so communication is never a problem. The restaurant is excellent, providing both traditional Austrian dishes and items more familiar to Americans. The Flugschule operates from this hotel, with beginner ground school held in downstairs meeting rooms, so it's a perfect place to use as your base of operations. Niederau is central to a huge number of great places for sightseeing so you should plan on staying here and driving to Innsbruck, Salzburg, Munic, and the surrounding places when you are playing tourist, Highly recommended. Ill

PARAGLIDING

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

EDEL SABER M - LIKE NEW, <20 hours, w/harness $1,600. Bill (503) 848-7242.

AILES DE K CRISTAL 32.3 - '97, <7 hours, all new condition, 7.5 glide, 90-l 17kg total weight, top light blue/dark blue, bottom white, matching harness, backpack, reserve, beginner/intermediate. ALL $3,000 STEAL! (541) 535-1121 AIREA FAT WILLIE TANDEM - Brand new $2,750. Edel Saber, medium, -70 hours $900. (303) 494-7623, email coopjer@aol.com AT MIRAGE LARGE - Intermediate, 165-2091bs, mint condition, <2 hours, Trace harness, helmet $1,800. (787) 731-4313, jay@comlasa.com. EDEL ATLAS - Large, harness, XS-400 Dl-lY certified steerable reserve l 75 lbs.+, $2600. Comet - large, good trainer, porosity checked good. $400. Lance Voorhees, l-800-225-3879, dutch@shasta.com. EDEL CORVETTE 22 - Perfect for the small IOOl 50lb pilot $300. (619) 484-1094, upsandiego@webtv.net

$850. (409) 861-4406.

POWERED PARAGLIDERS EDEi. ZX - And Wills harness $400. Apco Supra $900. (619) 225-8720. FIREBIRD CULT - Compwing, 28 hours $1,000. (808) 876-1534 mendes@shaka.com ITV RUBIS - <10hrs. Great, safe beginner wing, l65-l95lbs, w/harncss $700. (508) 540-9381 tobsav@capecod.net

PARAGLIDERS

RITMO IT XL -

NEW RTTMOS fast beginner's, 5 only, $1,200ea.(303) 347-8995. NOVA TAXI TANDEM - 70 hours $1,900. Call Alex (970) 920-2429, or Aspen Paragliding (970) 9257625. NOVA X-ACT 25 xrract@webtv.net

New, DHV 1-2, blue $2,400.

PARATEC!-1 P23 - Excellent beginner-intermediate glider, <3 hours, great for towing & powered paragliding. Complete package includes: SupAir harness, reserve, helmet. Only $3,000 OBO. (604) 538-6067, heathron@axion.net PRO-DESIGN PROFEEL 37 - l 90-240 lbs., low hours, solid intermediate for big pilot. $1,450. llig Pro Concept air deluxe harness, $350. Also Apco Sabra small, like new, only 15 hours, includes harness, reserve, backpack. $1250 OBO. (808) 239-2372.

DK Wl-lISl'FR - w/large Symphony canopy, <20 hours, like new, must sell $4,500. (561) 278-8420. FLY CASTELLUCCIO MACH l - 122cm,. 2 prop, spare prop, Solo 210 engine (18kg.), pilot 120kg., (408) 257-9132 Cupertino CA, AregevGila@aol.com OVER 50 - New, used, really cheap. Leave message (303) 347-8995. PAP 920 - Redrivc, electric start, improvements, l 50175lb pilot, 12 hours $2,600 or trade for larger unit. Will sell Rinno II xi paraglider for $750. (409) 8614406. SUMMER SALE - Powered paragliders (including Pagojet). Paragliders from $400, Aight suits, ere. (425) 867-9115. EMERGENCY PARACHUTES AIR ROCKET - Large L.A.R.A. canopy. List $1,095, first $500 takes. (303) 347-8995. BRAND NEW $395 - 38sq/m & 42sq/m. Used $200 meets military specs. (303) 347-8995.

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I I I I I I

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 dale of the issue in which you want your ad to appear (i.e., September 20 for the Nov./Dec. issue). Prepayment required unless account established. No cancellations or refunds allowed on any advertising after deadline. Ad insertions FAXed or made by telephone must be charged to a credit card. Please enter my classified ad as follows:

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

Begin with _ __

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

19___ issue and run for _____ _

consecutive issue(s). My O check, 0 money order is enclosed in the amount

---------------------

Number of months:

-------

of$ NAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

---------

ADDRESS:

----- ------·-------------------

STATE: ____ _ CITY: 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

L------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------~ SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

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SCHOOLS & DEALERS

qp1~tfiL

ARIZONA

Chad J. Bastian

DIXON'S AIRPLAY PARAGLIDING- #1 School for 1997 & 1998. The perfect beginner training areas 1 Year round temperate climate. DRIVE UP to 360 degree treeless and rockless launches. Land in wide open fields. Master rated tandem instructor Dixon \Xihite has supervised over 17,000 student flights to date, teaching new pilots is his profession. Individualized training with stateof-the-art equipment, 2-way radios, comprehensive ground schooling with an emphasis on micrometeorolob'YGreat new and used inventory. Specialized clinics including the CAGE, towing and BACKPACK MOTORS. Enjoy the Grand Canyon and other spectacular scenery. Great lodging bargains or luxuty accommodations. Dave Bridges, US National Champion says, "Dixon's students are extremely well-trained and competent pilots." Dixon's Paragliding in ARIZONA and WASHINGTON (appointments recommended), PO Box 2626, Flagstaff AZ 86004. (520) 526-4579. www.paraglide.com

Certified USHGA Jnstruclor

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 equipment you need ro fly. Fully certified, individualized instruction includes ground school, hands-on training on srate-of~the-art equipment using 2-way radios at a hill where you can drive to the top, and we can pick you up at rhe bottom after each flight! Visit our website at: www.flyaboveall.com or call (805) 965-3Trl and step into flight! HIGH ADVENTURE - Paragliding, hang gliding school. Equipment, sales, service at world famous Marshal Peak. USHGA tandem instructor: Rob McKenzie. By appointment year round (909) 883-8488, www.eee.org/bus/high_advcnture

L DERPORT 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive San Diego CA 92037

MAUI IS A FL YING MECCA Locals fly 320 days each year. 1-'ly from Haleakala Crater 10,023' above the Pacific. Soar friendly thermals at l'olipoli Flight Park. All sites drive-up. Good flying for all levels. Courses, clinics and guiding by Proflyght. Equipment in stock for rent or purchase. Please rnll ahead. Toll Free 1-877-GO-FLY-Hl or mail@paraglidchawaii.com IDAHO KING MOUNTAIN PARAGLIDING - Certified full-time SCHOOL, taught by Master rated instructor Brad Bloxham. Tandem, RETAIL, major brands, POWERED PARAGLIDERS, guide se1vice, 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 & everything else) $49.95. IO 169 N 15 E, Idaho l'alls, ID 83401. Phone or fax (208) 524-0039, email KingMtPG@aol.com, Visa/Discover/l)iscover.

Since /92R ACCELERATED FLIGHT SYSTEMS - Personal USHGA certified paragliding & hang gliding instruction. Courses arc expertly run on a friendly, informative basis. We have been introducing people to the world of· foot launched flight since 1976. New and used gliders and accessories. Ball, Cornet, Edel, Nova, SupAir, Pro Design, Firebird, Aitwave, Wills Wing/Swing and others. All skill levels welcome. PO Box 1226, Del Mar CA 92014. (858) 481-7400 Southern California.

VALLE DE BRA VO - Winter flying Mecca. 1-800861-7198, jeff@flymexico.com www.flymexico.com

PARAGLIDING AND HANG GLIDING USHGA certified instruction, tandem flight instruction, sales, service, repairs, parachute repacks, motorized pg/hg instruction and site tours. Southern California dealers for EDEL and SOL. Visa and MasterCard accepted. Check us out at http://www.flytorrey.com or call (858) 452-9858. FLORIDA

AIRJUNKIES PARAGLIDING - Join KEN BAIER for your "Pursuit of Paragliding Excellence" in the land of year-round, excellent paragliding: Southern California and the Baja. Courses for Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Instructor ratings. Powered paragliding,

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

soaring and maneuvers clinics, guided tours, tandem and

towing instruction and special events. USHGA certified. Handling the latest equipment. Call (760) 753-2664 for information.

Our advertising has a twomonth lead time. Plan ahead. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

SOUTHERN SKIES - Serving the SOUTHEAST, 4 hours from ATLANTA. MOUNTAIN FLYING, and POWERED PARAGLIDING. (828) 632-6000 WWW.SOUTHERNSKIES.NET

1999

- Put your knees in our breeze and soar our 450' sand dunes. FULL-TIME SHOP. Certified instruction, beginner to advanced, foot launch and tow. Sales, service, accessories for ALL major brands. VISA/MASTERCARD. 1509 E 8th, Traverse Ciry Ml 49684. Offering POWERED PARAGLIDING lessons & dealer for the Explorer & used units. Call Bill at (616) 922-2844, tchangglider@juno.com. Visit our paragliding school in Jackson, Wyoming. Call Tracie at (307) /39-8620.

MONTANA

KITE ENTERPRISES - Foot launch, payout winch tow and powered paraglider insrrucrion 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,

HIGH PLAINS PARAGLIDING - Professional instruction and quality gear! USHGA certified lessons in beautiful Helena, Montana. Selling Sup'Air, Gin, !'ire bird, and flycec. ( 406) 442-716.'l, hiplainz@aol.com, http://homemwn.aol.com/hiplainz

weekends. www.kiLe-entcrprises.com

UTAH NEVADA ADVENTURE SPORTS - Mountain tours for all levels. USHGA Certified school & ratings. Dealer for all major brands. 3650-22 Research Way, Carson City NV 89706. (775) 883-7070, email: advspcs@pryamid.net web site: http://www.pyramid.net/advspts NEW YORK IKAROS SPORT AVIATION - Lessons, service, equipment. Paragliding, hang gliding, powered paragliding, trikes. Phone (718) 777-7000, WWW.FLYFORFUN.NET

OVER THE 1 !ILL PARAGLIDING - Oregon/SW Washington. Sales, service, beginner-advanced USHGA certified instruction. Nova, Firebird, Apco, AT, Pro Design, SOL, Ball, Flycec, HES Quantum parachutes. Service: foll service shop, FAA rigger repairs/mods. Out of scare 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, Cresham OR 97080. (505) 667-4557, fax (503) 666-6979. Email: othparn@spiritl.com web: http:/ Ioverthehillparaglid ing.com

NORTH CAROLINA

LEARNTO~ PARAGLIDE~

SUNSPORTS PARAGLIDING - Hood River, Oregon. Beginner lessons, tandem flights, advanced instruction, consignment sales. Rick Higgins, Master rated pilot, Advanced Instructor, Tandem Instructor. (541) 387-2112, rsunsporcs@aol.com

THE SOARING CENTER - Utah's only full se1vice paragliding and hang gliding shop and school. We offer AM and PM lessons seven days a week. We arc dealers for all manufacturers. Great new and used equipment. We reach at the famous "Point of the Mountain." Free camping right where you learn. Great discount bargain lodging or luxury accommodations. Guide services, mountain tours, site information. Affordable classes. For a free information package, call coll free 1-888-944543.'l, email HBC3@aol.com, fax (801) 576-6482, 12665 S Minuteman Dr., Draper UT 84020,

at Kitty Hawk Kites Outer Banks, NC Lessons Daily Towing & Foot Launch Year Round Sales & Service CALL TODAY! 800-334-4777 252-441-4124

E-Mail Address info(mkiccyhawk.com

CLOUD 9 PARAGLIDING SCHOOL - Proud co be Utah's largest paragliding school, offering lessons from beginners through tandem flighr certification. We offer AM and PM training sessions seven days a week at world famous Point of the Mountain. We currently are the only major school in the US training pilots using ONLY airbag harnesses and 1999 glider models co provide the safest learning environment. Para 2 Certification is $650 for UNLIMITED lessons. In addition, your lessons package is I 00% applied toward the purchase of new gear. We are also the US and Mexico importers lor SOL paragliding gear. Our head instructor, Steve Mayer is the Presidenr of the Utah Hang Gliding Assn., an Advanced Instructor, Tandem Instructor, Advanced paraglider pilot, and Novice hang pilot. "Brush up" lessons for rated pilots are $45 per session, and P3 and 1'4 racing classes arc $100. Call or e-mail us for a complete information packet at (801) 553-1834, info@paragliders.com or visit our site on the web at www.paragliders.com

PA RAG LID ING!

www.soaringcentcr.con1

VIRGINIA THERMAL TRACKER PARAGLIDING - Southern Oregon's premier paragliding school. Come learn to fly in the beautiful mountains of Southern Oregon and We emphasize safe instruction Northern California. through P-4, utilizing many great training and mountain sites. ACTIVE PILOTS, consider Southern Oregon as your next flying vacation with guided tours of all the great Oregon sites! Dealer for all major brands. \Jew/used, call Kevin at (541) 955-17.'37 therrnalcracker@lbigfoot.com

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

I !ILL COUNTRY PARAGLIDING INC - Learn complete pilot skills. Personalized USHGA certified training, ridge soaring, foot & tow launching in central Texas. MOTORIZED PARAGLIDING INSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE. (915) J791185. Re 1, Box 16F, Tow 1 X 78672.

KITTY HAWK KITES- See North Carolina. SOUTHERN SKIES - Serving the SOUTHEAST, 1 hour from Virginia stare line. MOUNTAIN FLYING and POWERED PARAGLIDING. (828) 6J2-6000 WWW.SOUTHERNSKIES.NET

More than 4,000 paragliding enthusiasts read our magazine every month. That's more than 8,000 eyes seeing your ad! PARAGLIDING

Fl.IC! IT CONNECTIONS, INC. PTT II

WASHINGTON DIXON'S AIRPLAY PARAGLIDING - #1 School lor 1997 & 1998. This Northwest training center is located on the Eastern side of rhe Cascades where the weather is dry and beautifol! This 1,600 acre private Flight park is ideal for the beginner with drive-up open launches and large landing fields. Individualized training with state-of-the-art equipment, 2-way radios, compre-

FLIGHT CONNECTIONS, INC.

Sell your unused equipment here.

hensive ground schooling with an emphasis on microm-

eteorology. Great new and used inventory. Specialized clinics including the CAGE and BACKPACK MOTORS. One hour from the CHELAN BUTTE. On-sire climbing wall, skiing, mountain biking, etc. Dave Bridges, US National Champion says, "Dixon's students are extremely well-trained and competent

pilots." Dixon's Paragliding in Washington and Arizona (appointments recommended), 8101 Hay Canyon Road, Cashmere WA 98815. (509) 782-5543. www.paraglide.com

• New and Improved • Water/Dust Resisranr Push Button ' held Replaceable Finger Switch • Heavier Cauge Wire/Improved Plugs • Increased Strain Relief at Al.l. Joints

WISCONSIN Introductory price $89. 95. Fxtra finger switch $ I 4.95 w/purchase. Dealer inquiries welcome. Call (913) 2687946. MC/Visa. Visit our websire

RAVEN SKY Sl'ORTS-(414) 473-8800, brad@lhanggliding.com

WW\v.flightconn.com

PARTS & ACCESSORIES

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HAVE EXTRA EQUIPMENT - That you don't know whar to do wirh. Advertise in rhe Paragliding classifieds, $.50 per word, $5 minimum. Call USHl;A lor details (719) 652-8300, ushgaQzlushga.org or fax your ad with a Visa/MC, fax (719) 632-6417.

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 warranry. Great for paragliding too. ONLY $169. Mallettec, 1'0 Box 15756, Santa Ana CA, 92735. (714) 966-1240, www.mallettec.com MC/Visa accepted. VARIO KIT $70 - Soar with your hand made vario 1 Hiryu Mfg. http://home.att.ne.jp/red/FI.Y, fax: 0 l l-814J-279-4627 Japan. STILL THE HEST -Top Navigator

ALINCO DJ-191T - I-land-held VHI' transceiver. FEATURES: I .arge, illuminated display, 40+ 1 memories, direct frequency entry via the keypad, barre1y save fimction, scan fr111ction, lockable keypad, 1.5w or 5w transmit output, Cl'CSS encoder standard, DTMF selective call. Available with or without key-pad $159 to $239. Dry-cell battery cases (AAx4), fingerswirchcs, radio harnesses, etc. (541) 955-1757 THERMAL TRACKER l'ARACLIDINC

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

Windsok. Made of I. 5 oz. rips top nylon, UV treated, 5'4" long w/11" throat. Available colors fluorescent pink/yellow or fluorescent pink/white. $39. 95 (., $4. 75 S/H). Send ro US HCA Windsok, P.O. Box I 330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330, (719) 6J2-8300, fax (7 I 9) 632-6417. VISA/MC accepted.

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

Paragliding. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

1999

(808) 968-6856, aircotccQllexcite.com BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES SCHOOi. FOR SALE - Important paragliding school in Canada for sale. 25 minutes northeast of' Quebec City. All year long operations: 2,800' ground level, a road to the summit, mechanical lifts, 6 rake-off sites from I 00 degrees to 315 degrees exclusivity for paragliding business. Mont Ste-Anne, important ski resort in

Canada. Our school sells Apco and Advance paraglidcrs. The price asked is more than alfordablc, the school can be bought with or with equipment. All inquires: Ken Risdon, 4552F montee du Coteau, St. Augustin de Desmaures, Quebec, Canada C.1A IC: I. (It 18) 8714199, air! (dlglobctrotter.qc.ca

PUBLICATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS

MISCELLANEOUS VIDEOS, BOOKS & APPAREL - Call USHGA for your Merchandise order form (719) 632-8300, fax (71 9) 632-6417, email:ushga@ushga.org,www.ushga.org DON'T LEAVE YOUR GROUND-BOUND EQUIPMENT SITTING IN THE GARAGE. SELL IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS.

PARAGLIDING: THE COMPLETE GUIDE - By Noel Whittall. The most complete guide to paragliding on the market. Over I 00 color photographs & illustrations, 200 pages, $26.95 +$4.75 s/h. USHGA, PO Box 1330, Colorado Springs CO 80901. (719) 632-8,300, fax your MC/Visa to (719) 632-6417, or order from our web site www.ushga.org SOARING - Monthly magazine of The Soaring Society of America, Inc. Covers all aspects of soaring flight. 1-'ull membership $55. Info. kit with sample copy $.3. SSA, P.O. Box 2100, Hobbs, NM 88241. (505) 392-1177.

FREE-X FLAIR M - Stolen from a vehicle in SAN FRANCISCO, CA area on April 20, 1999. Red w/white LE. Advance harness attached, purple/black/yellow. Call Stephen Ainge (516) 285-3240, ainge@hamptons.com 1998 DK WHISPER GT Powered PG - Stolen at PIKETON, OH on December 2 l, 1998. Engine VIN# 9630 lrame V[N#32Tl, (prop guard was NOT stolen.) Harness w/lefr torn foocbar loop; large tan leather patch attached with velcro strips on the back. XL DK Hathor Symphony glider. Purple on top, white/multi-color on bottom. Contact Pete Richmond, (740)493-2517, Richmond@zoomnet.net There is also a $1000 Reward for the return of my PPG, no questions asked.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES The rate for classified advertising is $.50 per word (or group of characters) and $1.00 per word for bold or all caps. Phone number=2 words, PO Box=2 words, weight range i.e. 137-185lbs=2 words, web site or email address=3 words. MINIMUM AD CHARGE $5.00. A fee of $15.00 is charged for each line arc logo and $25.00 for each phoro. LINEART & PHOTO SIZE NO LARGER THAN 1.75" X 2.25". Please underline words to be in bold j2l!D__[,. Special layouts of tabs are $25.00 per column inch. AD DEADLINES: September 20th is the deadline for the November/December issue. !'lease make checks payable to USHGA. Send to: PARAGLIDING MAGAZINE, Classified Advertising, P.O. Box 1330, Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1330 (719) 632-8300 or fax (719) 632-6417, email jjclgarc@ushga.org with your Visa or MasterCard.

FIREBIRD IGNITION - Stolen from a truck parked at a trailhead in CRESTED BUTTE, CO on November 25th, 1998. Red, VIN #206-98-ILU. Also taken, Firebird backpack, High Adventure Excite harness w/scirrup, front mount Fircbird RSII reserve, learn carbon fiber helmet. Call William Jenkins (303) 444-5200, jenkins@privacel.com

STOLEN WINGS & THINGS

cancel the lisring when gliders arc recovered.

STOLEN WINGS are listed as a service to USHGA members. There is no charge for this service and lost and found wings or equipment may be called in (719) 6328300 or fax it in (719) 632-64 l 7 for inclusion in Paragliding & Hang Gliding magazine. Please call to Periodically, this listing will be purged.

VIDEOS FLY HARD: Viking films newest release. Rob Whittall, Chris Santacroce & a vintage Buick convertible foll of paragliders. Outrageous /lying at several west coast flying sites. Meet HG aerobatics champion Mitch McAleer along the way. Excellent rock soundtrack, professionally filmed & edited $35.95. PARAGLIDE: THE MOVIE by Viking Films. Rock-n-roll world class competition at Owens Valley. Professionally filmed & edited $35.95. Call or fax USHGA (719) 632-8300, fax (719) 6326417, please add +$4 domestic s/h (+$5 for two or more video.s). Great to impress your friends or for those socked-in days. 0

.,,hga.org

www.ushga.org

AT BAG/FIREBIRD G-SPORT L - Lost at LAKE CHELAN, WA launch area by the towers on May 16th, 1999. AT bag is purple/green. Glider is pink/white. Also SupAir purple/white harness, reserve, Piccolo vario. Darren Hart (970) 925-2483. EDEL CORVETTE 24 PG - Stolen from storage locker in CLARK FORK, ID on May 4th, 1999. Hot pink/lime green, with trim tabs. Also GQ security chute, burgundy "vetter" helmet w/several site stickers on it (1-'unston, WOR, Dunlap, Ed Levin, etc.) And older red helmet. Rhoda, (208) 266-1505.

www.ushga.org

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INDEX: TO ADVERTISERS Adventure Productions ........................... 49 Air California ........................................... 5 Airplay Paragliding ....................... 20,21,27 APCO Aviation Ltd ................................. 5 Ball Varios .................. , ........................... 27 Brauniger ............................................... 37 Canadian Paragliding ............................. 50 Edel ....................................................... 19 Fly Ecuador. ........................................... 17 Flytec ..................................................... 27 Hall Brothers ........................................... 9 Mojo's Gear ........................................... 17 NAPI/Flight Design ............................... 26 Nova ...................................................... 25 Paragliding World Team ........................ 50 Powerglider ............................................ 49 Pro Design ............................... Back Cover Sol. ......................................................... 59 Sport Aviation Publications ................... .46 Sup' Air .................................................. 42 Super Fly, Inc ................................. 2,30,31 Thermal Tracker ...................................... 9 Thin Red Line ....................................... 51 USHGA ........................ 11,33,45,46,54,58 Wills Wing ............................................... 7

PARAGLIDING

First wing AFNOR.