18 minute read
50 Years of Supporting the Free Flight Community by Steve Pearson, USHPA President
FALL BOARD MEETING
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ushpa.org/volunteer CELEBRATION > Steve Pearson, USHPA President
50 Years of USHPA Supporting the Free Flight Community
:In December 1973, members of the Southern California Hang Glider Association voted to change the association’s name to the United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc.
Hang gliding was a new and unique sport at the time. Stories about the sport were featured in many national publications, including National Geographic, Time, Newsweek, The New York Times, The Smithsonian, Popular Mechanics, and Mechanics Illustrated. In 1973, membership was already at 4,578 pilots, and competitions typically included hundreds of spectators and occasionally TV coverage. Chris Wills, age 21, had recently won the first National Hang Gliding Championships sponsored by Annie Green Springs Wine and was featured in Sports Illustrated. Membership more than doubled in the following seven months, totaling 10,410 pilots in July 1974— more than USHPA’s current membership.
I followed all of this in real time. I built my first glider at age 16 in late 1972, derived from plans in another publication, Low & Slow, but had to wait until my next visit to Southern California in 1974 to complete my flight training. Three years later, on June 24, 1977, two days after my 21st birthday, my friend and hang gliding icon Bob Wills was tragically killed while filming a Jeep commercial. In the following months, Rob Kells, Mike and Linda Meier, and I took over the management of Bob’s company, Wills Wing. The business closed in 2021 after producing 29,368 gliders (not including our paragliders).
Fifteen major U.S. hang gliding manufacturers had one or more full-page ads in the June 1977 issue of this publication (then still titled Ground Skimmer), including eight from Southern California. Most had closed before ten more years elapsed; however, each had a rich history and made significant contributions to our sport and community. People like Pete Brock, designer of the Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe (1965), left at the peak of his career to start Ultralight Products (UP). Pete recruited teenage designer Roy Haggard who, among many other achievements, later designed the UP Comet. Piloting a UP Comet II, Larry Tudor become the first pilot to break the 200-mile mark when he flew 221.5 miles on July 13, 1983, just 10 years after UP’s first standard Rogallo. Larry broke the next bar-
The United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association Inc. (USHPA) is an air sports organization affiliated with the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), which is the official representative of the Fédération Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), of the world governing body for sport aviation. The
NAA, which represents the United States at FAI meetings, has delegated to the USHPA supervision of FAI-related hang gliding and paragliding activities such as record attempts and competition sanctions. The United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, a division of the National Aeronautic Association, is a representative of the Fédération Aeronautique Internationale in the United States.
rier just seven years later with a 303-mile distance and declared goal on July 3, 1990, on a Wills Wing HP AT 158 (now hanging in a museum in Elkhart, Kansas). Larry often talked with me about the 500-mile barrier, but Dustin Martin’s 2012 record of 475 miles will be tough to beat.
However, hang gliding began long before 1973 and the formation of USHGA. It’s controversial even to identify an origin with so many contributors from Dickenson (1963), Miller (1963), Palmer (1961), Rogallo (1948 and later), Bates (1908), Chanute (1896), Lilienthal (1891) and other dreamers of flight like Leonardo Da Vinci from history. Even my uncle built and flew a Bates-type “hang glider” as a teenager in 1927. Despite these numerous milestones, many recognize May 23, 1971, as the beginning of our era, on the day of the Otto Lilienthal Hang Glider Meet commemorating Otto Lilienthal’s 123rd birthday. As Frank Colver recounted, on the morning of the meet, “More hang gliders and hang gliding enthusiasts than anyone had even guessed existed showed up.”
That event catalyzed the Southern California Hang Glider Association (SCHGA) meetings, which regularly included people like Paul McCready (TIME magazine’s engineer of the century and inventor of S2F theory) and Irv Culver (legendary Lockheed aerodynamicist). Ground Skimmer (later to become Hang Gliding Magazine, then Hang Gliding and Paragliding, and now USHPA Pilot) included articles from distinguished NASA scientists like R.T. Jones and Hewitt Phillips. These contributions were fundamental and essential for advancing our understanding of airworthiness, which was a preeminent concern with fatal accidents growing at an alarming rate.
Within two years, SCHGA developed the foundational administrative architecture that continues to serve USHPA today, including the regional representation with directors and committees to develop safety and training, a pilot rating system, competition structure, accident reviews, site management, and other critical issues. These meetings also spun off another group focused on airworthiness, which later became the Hang Glider Manufacturers Association (HGMA), the seed for other international airworthiness programs and even the consensus airworthiness standards more recently adopted by the FAA for light sport aircraft.
If I were to identify an individual who singularly contributed the most to the development of hang gliders worldwide, it would be Tom Price. He invented and developed the hang gliding test vehicle and shared it with everyone. His contributions to advancing structural integrity and un-
cover photos by Tom Galvin Brad Balser Seth Warren
Angie Kennedy hang gliding Ute Pass in Colorado. A pilot paragliding Merriam Crater in Arizona. Pascal Joubert pilot speedflying the Big Horns in Montana.
Martin Palmaz > Publisher executivedirector@ushpa.org
Liz Dengler > Editor editor@ushpa.org
Kristen Arendt > Copy Editor Greg Gillam > Art Director WRITERS
Dennis Pagen Lisa Verzella Carl Weiseth
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ben White Audray Luck
derstanding longitudinal stability through the test vehicle and analysis with Hewitt Phillips and Gary Valle made aerodynamic advances possible in the years following 1977. You cannot increase hand gliding or paragliding performance without the constraint of airworthiness, which consists of controllability, structural integrity, and stability. Forty-five years later, the test vehicle remains the best mechanism we have for evaluating longitudinal stability and structural integrity.
The exponential growth of hang gliding soon led to motorized applications, beginning with auxiliary power systems like the Soarmaster and more dedicated systems adapted to the Quicksilver, Fledgling, and Easy Riser rigid wings. With the widespread commercialization of these systems, it became increasingly apparent that federal regulation was unavoidable. FAR part 103, which governs the operation of hang gliders and ultralights, was enacted and became effective in October 1982. Much could be said about this rule-making, but it is widely acknowledged that the expansive freedom of operations it preserved for hang gliding relied heavily on the extraordinary record of responsible self-governance demonstrated by USHGA and HGMA in the preceding years. This was a windfall of epic proportions at the very margin of the authority of the FAA to enact without congressional authorization, which USHPA has been essential in preserving for the last 40 years. Although the roots of paragliding are contemporaneous with modern Rogallo-derivative hang gliding in the 1960s, the beginning of the sport didn’t develop until the late ‘80s in Europe. In the U.S., Fred Stockwell established the American
Author and current USHPA President Steve Pearson
test flying the prototype XC7 in 1978.
Paraglider Association (APA) in Salt Lake City in 1988 and was soon producing a full-feature color magazine and developing administrative programs that mirrored USHGA.
Rob, Mike, and I began flying paragliders between 1989 and 1990. We recognized the commonality between hang gliding and paragliding—the pilots, the flying sites, the soaring activity, other skills, and flight training requirements. It just didn’t make any sense to have two representative associations. Rob and I made several trips to SLC and eventually persuaded Fred to relinquish APA and support a merger with USHGA. Although there were tokens of resistance, USHGA leadership ratified the inclusion of paragliding at the November 1990 board meeting, and paraglider pilots soon realized all the benefits of USHGA programs for ratings, safety, training, competition, and, of course, site access. Fred became the chairman of the USHGA paragliding committee, but it took until 2006 before the membership voted for the name change to USHPA.
One thousand words aren’t enough to identify all the individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to our community, much less detail who they were and what they did. We are the beneficiaries and custodians of an extraordinary confluence of events and people who enabled the freedoms and privileges that the free flight community enjoys today.
After all these years, I still fail to understand why the free flight experience isn’t widely popular. Even as the barriers to accessibility and safety have improved, we still haven’t regained the public interest and engagement level of the ‘70s. Nevertheless, I remain optimistic because every pilot, regardless of experience, shares that same wonder as I do on every flight—what else compares to standing with a light breeze on your face and, with a few steps, climbing skyward? Even those with only a tandem or introductory lesson often consider it to be one of the most memorable experiences of their life and forever identify as hang gliders pilots.
Today, pilots are seemingly assaulted by imminent threats to our lifestyle, such as increasing costs, burdensome rules, and liability exposure—but these challenges are not new. Similar to previous challenges, we sometimes became distracted and overwhelmed with disagreements on how to handle these issues. However, this diversity of experience ultimately contributes to the best possible solutions and outcomes. We are better and stronger together despite ever-present disputes on policy and procedure.
There are endless opportunities to contribute to the aspirations that we all share—for improved safety, site security, community growth, and well-being. As in 1973, the best way to secure our future is to volunteer—whether as a mentor or observer, at an event, with a chapter, on an USHPA committee, or as a director. Imagine what you want for the next 50 years, and let’s work together to achieve it.
Steve Pearson
President president@ushpa.org
Matt Taber
Vice President vicepresident@ushpa.org
Jamie Shelden
Secretary secretary@ushpa.org
Bill Hughes
Treasurer treasurer@ushpa.org
Martin Palmaz
Executive Director executivedirector@ushpa.org
Galen Anderson
Operations Manager office@ushpa.org
Chris Webster
Information Services Manager tech@ushpa.org
Anna Mack
Membership Manager membership@ushpa.org
BOARD MEMBERS
(Terms End in 2023) Julia Knowles (region 1) Nelissa Milfeld (region 3) Pamela Kinnaird (region 2) Steve Pearson (region 3) Designated Director 1 (TBD) Designated Director 2 (TBD)
BOARD MEMBERS
(Terms End in 2024) Charles Allen (region 5) Nick Greece (region 2) Stephan Mentler (region 4) Tiki Mashy (region 4)
EPIC 2 MOTOR The
popular Epic 2 EN-B model is now DGAC certified for motor flight. The BGD EPIC 2 MOTOR is “fun on steroids”. It’s a hybrid wing, which means you can fly it with a motor or without—the only difference is the riser set. The MOTOR version is delivered with paramotor risers which feature an efficient trimmer system with a wide speed range for cruising comfortably under power. The EPIC 2 MOTOR comes in three colors and includes motor risers. Contact your dealer for more information. More information: www.BGD-USA.com, Dale Covington +1 801-699-1462.
NIVIUK HAWK POD
Designed specifically to be the ideal choice when making the transition from an open leg to a pod harness, without a large rear fairing. The Hawk is stable, comfortable, and light (medium 3.8 kg). Finally, a harness which addresses different body types (long/short legs or torso) giving you the option to mix sizes between the harness section and the pod section to get the perfect fit. Every harness size has three pod options. Visit www.eagleparagliding.com for more information.
ADVANCE FASTPACK The popu-
lar Advance FASTPACKs have been updated with new designs, colors and sizes. They are now offered in two sizes 160 L and 200 L and they start at 1.3 kg. They are available through Super Fly, Inc., www.superflyinc.com, +1 801-255-9595, or your local dealer.
FLUID WINGS LOKI 2 Fluid Wings introduces the Loki 2, a new entry level/recreational speedwing. Designed to make all avenues of speedflying accessible to any speedwing pilot, ranging in ability from the training hill to the most technical mountain terrain. Speedriding, speedflying, and speed-soaring are all in the Loki 2’s repertoire. It is constructed of hybrid materials to optimize weight and performance, including soft brake toggles for a comfortable grip and rear-riser steering for those steep descents. The Loki 2 risers have dual hookin points for pilots to choose the riser length of their choice. The wing’s overall balance from its ease of inflation, ease of kiting, precise control in flight, and strong flare make for a super fun and confidence inspiring experience. You can learn more about the Loki 2 at www.Fluidwings.com, and order via info@fluidwings.com and +1 888-24FLUID.
FLYMASTER BUMPER CASE Now available for the new Flymaster GPS M and new Flymaster VARIO M is the bumper case to protect your instrument. Easy to mount whilst still giving access to the buttons. Exclusively available from Flymaster USA for $35. More info at www.flymasterusa.com or email directly Jugdeep@flymasterusa.com.
NEW BGD HYPERFUNCTION JACKETS BGD has
released a new version of their popular HyperFunction puffy all-weather jacket. The new design features reinforced seams, weather-protective zips, zippered pockets, pit-zips, and a hood. Constructed with animal-free, ultra-light, synthetic down feather fill and nylon outer shell. The jackets come in two new colors: Scarlet Chili Red and Deep Sea Ice Blue. Available now from your local BGD dealer: www.BGD-USA. com, Dale Covington +1 801-699-1462.
NIVIUK ARROW POD HARNESS A high-perfor-
mance pod harness designed for XC adventures, and starting competition flying, weighing just 3.95 kg (size M). Details include powerpack pocket, suitable for cables of different electronic devices and a 4 L ballast storage pocket. The Arrow addresses different body types (long/short legs or torso) giving you the option to mix sizes between the harness section and the pod section to get the perfect fit. Every harness size has three pod options. Visit www.eagleparagliding.com for more information. ECHO 2 The ECHO 2 is made entirely from high quality and industry proven Porcher cloth, with sturdier cloth in the center panels where it is needed for additional strength and to ensure longevity. The ECHO 2 has the same webbing risers as on the EPIC 2, much easier to handle than Dyneema rope-style risers. They incorporate the same B/C steering system as on the EPIC 2, and similar to the BASE 2, allowing you to safely explore the entire bar travel. The ECHO 2 is designed to be accessible to lower-airtime pilots, and fun for all. Pilot feedback was key in helping design a wing that launches perfectly. No holding back or over-flying. It’s easy and relaxing, allowing pilots to maximize performance and fun. The ECHO 2 is a bit faster than the original and more dynamic. Long brake travel makes for a late stall point, yet has precise and direct handling like all BGD wings. Contact your nearest BGD-USA dealer for a free demo, or direct from BGD-USA: www. BGD-USA.com, +1 801-699-1462.
ADVANCE EPSILON DLS The eagerly
awaited tenth version of the EPSILON is the DLS. It’s a true mid-B glider for a broad range of pilots. It is a durable light glider in DLS (durable lightweight structure) spirit from 3.5 kg. The successful EPSILON series conveys not only fun and enjoyment, but above all, safety. The ideal paraglider for recreational pilots available in Royal, Spectra, Fire and Gold. Available in a variety of sizes through Super Fly, Inc., www.superflyinc.com, +1 801-255-9595, or your local dealer.
BGD ULTRA-LIGHT ANDA BGD has a new, ul-
tra-light hike-and-fly wing on its way, the BGD ANDA. Currently in certification, this new hike-and-fly fun-machine is targeted as an entry-level hike-and-fly, funfor-all EN-A wing, weighing in at 2.7 kg in the 21 m size. It has 37 cells with no mini-ribs and is expected to support a broad weight range with sizes 21, 23, 25, 27 and 29, and will be certified in extended weight ranges. The ANDA is constructed with sheathed lines and softlinks. A and B risers are made from Kevlar webbing, while the C risers are Dynema. Contact your local BGD dealer to get on the advance order list: www.BGD-USA. com, Dale Covington +1 801-699-1462 PHI MAESTRO 2 With 76 cells, additional mini ribs, a new profile, wing tensioning, and other new technologies, the Maestro 2 delivers. This is Phi’s greatest leap in performance ever achieved from one model generation to the next. The stability of speed is confidence inspiring, and roll stability removes any unnecessary inefficiencies on glides. The Phi Promise has you covered for any damage in the first year of use through The Eagle Paragliding Repair Shop. Visit www.eagleparagliding. com for more information.
WOODY VALLEY CREST HARNESS The Crest is
a 1.98 kg (size M) reversible harness with a completely detachable rucksack. Great for hike-and-fly pilots as well as pilots wanting a light harness with no compromise on comfort. No front mount reserve needed since it’s under the seat reserve compartment, with separate leg support without seat board. The leg straps loop in the main carabiners to reduce weight. Visit www. eagleparagliding.com for more information. PHI R07 RISERS These risers come standard on the Maestro 2. The R07 risers offer much better ergonomic function for pilots wanting to use the C-handle flying technique. These specialized risers are produced with different overall total lengths, and speed system length based on your Phi glider model and size. Phi continues its revolution to maximize performance, feel, and handling wherever it’s possible. Visit www. eagleparagliding.com for more information.
CHARLY POLARHEAT LIGHT
Warm, soft, and pliable battery heated gloves eliminate the threat of line tangles with long gauntlets, internal drawstrings, and flat integrated stoppers. Two battery pockets per glove give up to 10 hours of heating time. Made with a 3-layer windblocker softshell exterior, goat nappa leather on the palm, Polartec® Microfleece lining, and Primaloft® outer insulation to keep hands warm and dry. The Polarheat Light gloves are excellent for paragliding and ski touring. Available in sizes S, M, L, XL, and XXL through Super Fly, Inc., www.superflyinc.com, +1 801255-9595, or your local dealer.
ADVANCE AXCESS 5 The fifth generation of the extremely popular all-round harness AXESS is here. It has a plastic seatboard in hollow-chamber construction. Proven features such as the harness geometry, the protector system, and the size distribution remain unchanged. Many details have been refined and optimized. Available through Super Fly, Inc., www. superflyinc.com, +1 801-255-9595, or your local dealer.
GIN GRAPHITE JACKET The Graphite jacket features the latest comfortemp® Thermal Insulation by Freudenberg, which offers an eco-friendly and easy care alternative to down. The jacket is designed for comfort in the air while avoiding overheating on the ground. It is 413 g (M size), and very compact. It comes in sizes XS, S, M, L, XL. In addition to the outer shell and insulating filling, it has a zippered inner chest pocket, outer chest pocket, two hand pockets, and elongated back and extra arm length. It’s available through Super Fly, Inc., www.superflyinc.com, +1 801-255-9595, or your local dealer.
XC TRACER MAXX 2 WITH FLARM Unlike con-
ventional variometers with delayed sink and lift tones, the XC Tracer Maxx II’s sensors follow a complicated mathematical procedure to eliminate this delay. Finding and centering thermals with a Maxx II is much easier than with a conventional variometer. The Maxx II has a real FANET including FLARM built in, which means Maxx II can also receive data from other FANET. Adding other Maxx 2 pilots to your screen field is a simple few clicks on the red button. The vario inputs can also be controlled with a remote, which is sold separately. Visit www.eagleparagliding.com for more information.
XC TRACER MINI 5 WITH FLARM Don’t be
surprised if you never have to charge your XC Tracer Mini V during a whole season! The vario has a built-in lithium-polymer battery which, fully charged, lasts for about 30 hours of continuous use. But as the battery is recharged during flight by the built-in solar cells, the autonomy is almost unlimited. The new Mini V also continuously transmits your position via FANET and FLARM. Visit www.eagleparagliding.com for more information.
