Inflations and deflations

Steve M packs up after alovely last flight at Ronda La V and an amazing two weeks of flying

Michelle looks pleased at the end of his week away

Kaz last to land rounds of a cracking trip

Gunny "I don't snore at all" keeps Ray awake

Ray pulls a dog at the airport, or is it Nigel pulling ??

It was an early get away from the house and off to Ronda La V to hopefully get a last flight in. On arrival two gliders were flying so it was on. Unfortunately a minor driving error resulted in two more dented wheels but quick action by Steve M and a swift wheel change soon saw us mobile again.

getting in the air quickly those that flew enjoyed some nice flying in "crisp" conditions, almost like a bright winters day in the UK. As the cumulus developed so did the thermals and the wind. It was all to soon time to head out front before landing by the track where the cars picked us up. A lovely end to the flying which had seen us fly every day apart from the one we arrived on, can't be bad.

We headed to the airport after packing our wings neatly by the beach and that's when the fun began! It's a long story but net result was that Gunny was not allowed on the plane, guess who's stranded in Malaga with him??

So nearly ended Algo' 2009 which had seen some amazing flying conditions, some amazing flying and some unusual experiences. Nearly everybody experienced personal bests and or achieved what they hoped. It was good to see so many pilots experiencing and using thermals for the first time and staying up for hours without the help of ridge lift. Forward and reverse launches were perfected in varying conditions and nil wind landings made to look easy. Hopefully everyone had a good time I know I did and thank you to them all for not only coming but also making the trip what it was.

Any one for another ???????

Cloudbase and Bullfighting

Ray gets in early to load the van

Peachy takes his time to get some Rays

The guys get ready to fly at El Bosque

Steve M starts a perfect forward launch

Classic shot as Steve takes off

Having made the decision that the day may well blow out early we headed to El Bosque to hopefully miss the worst of it. On Arrival there was little breeze and it was well north so a cuppa coffee in the bar where we were joined by some other groups.

The sight of gliders starting to fly pulled us away from the never ending crossword and up the hill. Bill, Steve, Tony and Graham K were quickly off the hill as others began to arrive. Michelle waited for more breeze (he must practice his forward launches) and Ray waited for Michelle as a que developed.. Then shock horror we saw some dampness on the way! Next thing we were at cloudbase and with the others landing we called it a day and headed down. In hope we hung on for a couple of hours and had a guided tour of the local Bullring courtesy of Raymond who talked his way in before heading back to Algo where it was as black as your hat just as Gunny had advised us.

Evening meal out we dragged Gunny along and had a fine time before retiring in anticipation of an early start to get some flying in before heading to the airport.

Flying with the birds

Who wants what for lunch?

Team Kernow show the way as the day begins to work

Ray does a bit of line tangling before take off

Ray heads out into the valley from the top of the stack

Another superb eat in meal by Steve and Kaz and all for less than 3 euro's!

A bit cooler and a NW wind forecast but with the German hordes off to Ronda we decided to stay on the mountain. It proved a good choice, not too busy and the west launch was working well from early on. The guys got off early leading the pack and most found lift giving a good early flight before descending into the north landing fileds.

It was not long before they were back up and things were even better with everyone who took off getting pretty much as much flying as they wanted although it was a little on the bumpy side! Ray got off nicely as the others landed and had another cracking thermal flight topping out above the stack with some smooth flying.

Everyone had a good one and another top meal in saw a very sociable evening. The stop outs headed to JJ's where we demolished the Dutch at pool to add insult to injury having already stolen thier car a few days before.

Moonlight Senatra

Serious take off! The view down from the local park in Ronda

Ray plays with the locals

The young Check's fly Michelles head

Every picture tells a story

The moon behind Ronda la V just before take off

The weather was finally different with a brisk NW and low cloud, made us think of England! We opted for a check out ar Ronda la V with a back up of heading Ronda for sight seeing then a re visit on the way back hopefully for an evening flight. That's pretty much exactly what we did, it was windy in the morning although the french had decided to fly a low hill in front of the main site we gave it a miss and headed in to town.

Ronda is a lovely place if a little toristy but has some superb architecture with a range of buildings from the 11th century onwards. A very plesant couple of hours, nice coffee, lovely apple thing and amazing guitarist all added to the experience.

Heading back north we arrived at the top of Ronda V where it was still windy. The Germans were just leaving and the french were still playing around on the low hill. We waited and pretty soon the local hot shot and some young Check' guns took off on fast wings. Their flying was impresive but their landgs enough to keep us on the ground.

As time went on the wind steadily eased and by the time everyone else had packed up we got going! Although a bit of a race against time Graham K, Michelle, Bill N and myself were all quickly in the air to enjoy some of the nicest flying I have had on a Paraglder. The moon was up the sun had set and the colours were just fantastic. In smooth bouyant air we could fly pretty much anywhere and the sight of Michelle sillouetted against the moon was something else.

We landed in the light of a full moon with big smiles, patience is a virtue........

The air is cooler now and the tempatures forecast much lower than the 30 degrees we have been experiencing so things may liven up a bit.

Even better day ever !

The guys set out on the SW launch as Bill circles up

Ray gets thermalling on his way to well over 2000' above with Bill keeping an eye on him from below

The gang go Michelle spotting at El Bosque

Amazing views from launch as one of the boys floats along the ridge

Michelle comes down as the sun sets

What a day it was. Up to Lijar in the morning the team showed the way with Bill N first off the hill and climbing straight out in thermal way above launch. One by one the others followed whilst the rest of the hill watched and slowly got their kit out. Previous thermal virgins made it look easy and within a few minutes we had everyone up and away except Ray M and Nigel E.
With things still looking good Ray showed them how to do it with a great forward launch. A little bit of encouragement soon saw him circling in a nice "5 up" to 1500' above launch. Leaving him to his own devices he enjoyed a hour and twenty minutes flying dropping down to 1500' below take off before popping back up again to well over 2000' above it again.

Nigel E was last off of the group and again with a little help was soon spiralling up to join Ray. He had an amazing flight having never really thermalled before and "settled" in nicely. After flying well out over the valley with nearly a mile of air under him his question was " OK Graham, how do I get down?" Both Nigel and Ray made great efforts to find descending air with quote of the day being " come over here Ray the sink is working really well!".teve M experienced some weightlessness in what were relatively bouncy conditions and witnessed a low level full collapse to a performance wing following which he carried out some pilot comforting


A bite of lunch and we made the decision not to return to the main hill where all the pilots that missed the slot had moved to the NW launch but to head off to El Bosque where we hoped it would be quieter. On arrival there was only half a dozen gliders flying adn by the time we got to launch we had it to ourselves. The guys wasted no time in getting off and enjoying the late afternoon gain Ray showed the way with a first class nil wind landing to end a lovely day with a nice mixture of flying and some personal bests.

Tomoorow who knows but looks like a change in the weather so we may well change sites, we shall see. How's the UK????

"Best Day Ever"

First flights off Lijar and the gang spread out over the valley
Graham K ready to roll at Ronda

Peachy and his harem watch proceedings

Kaz floats by as the sky gets busy

Age before beauty

Well that's what Bill said but it is the third time he has said it in the last 5 days! We had a cracking time flying off the SE side of Lijar first with the guys getting up to 6'500' asl (over 3000' ato) and staying airborne for up to nearly 3 hours. Bill took the honours managing to control his bladder the whole time but causing a minor flood alert after landing.
Michelle and Graham K both had super thermal flights and landing with big grins and no motion sickness. Tony P popped his thermal cherry and was soon well above launch mixing it with the best of them. In fact we got the whole group off nicely and whats more they all landed near each other so making an easy trip to the bar for lunch whilst we waited for Michelle and Bill to finally come down.

After a bite to eat we headed off to Ronda la v where it was nicely soarable and those that wanted got up and away again with Michelle and Kaz leading the way. Although a little busy the regular evening valley lift gave some nice height so allowing gliders to spread out. A few top landed and the others took the bottom option as the sunset and the lift disappeared. Ray did a kind of in between thing giving me some exercise!

A first class day all round rounded off with a 70's Halloween fancy dress party, there will be no pictures of me in a dress!!!!!

Inflating and Deflating

Yet another sunny day and more of the same. The SE launch was the place to be the guys were happy to wait until things looked a bit more buoyant before taking off. Ray was up for his asymmetric's and headed out over the valley before giving them his best shot. He did a couple of beauties so knocking them off his Pilot rating tasks. The rest had various success with the lift on their flights with some doing better than others. I managed to squeeze a super flight in taking off straight into a bouncy one then hoping around the sky with the Vultures who were in very sociable mood.

Coring down to land gave me plenty of practice in spirals and put me into the filed ready for pick up. Unfortunately a large rock had jumped out in front of the car resulting in some re arranged wheel rims. A bit of running around got it sorted whilst the other car crew enjoyed another flight off the NW launch.

With the forecast still looking good the team had an early night in preparation.

All change

Don't ask, it was far to early in the morning

The "new boys" get ready for an afternoon flight on their arrival day

Steve M joins them for a nice light off the west launch

An early morning saw me heading to Malaga with Kev and Sam at the end of a fantastic week for them with us flying every day. A slick change over and we were heading back to Algo' with the "new" boys Michelle, Tony P and Graham K.

Arriving at the house around 14.30 we met up with the others who had been sight seeing at Zahara and headed up the hill. A pleasant evening saw the guys flying of the NW launch so getting in a flight on their first day to acclimatise.

A fun evening followed in a local bar with the other pilots in the village eating and drinking as much as possible followed by some amazing pool by Tony and myself despite the German rules.

Smooth Operator

Three man gun crew, Sam holds, Nigel loads and Ray fires

Para waiting whilst the wind sorts itself out

All go as it "comes on"

Sam's wiew of launch from way above

2500' above take off out across Algo to the Atlantic, stunning

Guess what, more sunshine and a SE wind so back up to Lijar main launch. The guys decided to hang back a little to allow the thermals to get going and the wind to drop a bit. The foot catapult was put into good use keeping both us and Fly Spains group well entertained.

Things got going by early afternoon with Kev and Bill leading the way and both having super flights in the nice gentle thermals which whilst not going as high as yesterday were more user friendly. Nigel E got a good taste of a slightly more enthusiastic one on his way down and did well to get a few 360's in it before heading off. Steve M had a nice flight before pulling out into the valley to perform his asymmetric's for his pilot rating which he did with plenty of enthusiasm. Ray got away cleanly and whilst not catching the lift had a good flight and a superb landing with out any help.

The guys were on their way back up by the time Sam took off thinking he had missed the best of it. After sinking out and scratching around he found some light lift over the landing field which he did a fine job of working all the way back to take off and beyond topping out above the masses. He then had a amazing flight of well over two hours cruising the valley in ever expanding lift so finishing his week in fine style.

The guys got off for their second flight and whilst they did well non could quite match Sam's efforts (or is it luck?).

As the afternoon turned to evening the wind went Catabatic shutting off the lift and making for plenty of bush take offs! Bit like being in Malaya Ray...........

A great end to the first week which has seen some lovely flying and both Kev and Sam's flying move ahead in leaps and bounds, shame they have to return to the UK tomorrow but good that 3 more are coming to join us and the weather looks set for the foreseeable future.

Another day in Paradise

Breakfast at tiffany's Steve and Kev discuss omelette's

gaggle climbs out above launch with Bill and Sam in it somewhere

Classic Ray pose before take off

Things get a little quiter as the day goes on

Kev flies past launch and plays with the thermals

That's what the guys said when they woke up this morning and looked at the weather. With a light Se it was Lijar SE launch again which the guys got an early flight off in what turned out to be bouncy conditions. Ray m had the best of it being last off and flying straight into a nice thermal which after a couple of 360´s saw him well up before heading out for a sweet flight down to join the rest.
Back up at the top we waited for an hour or so before Bill N showed the way by stomping over the French to launch and quickly climb out in good lift to well over 5000´asl. Sam soon went up and joined him in fact going even higher. Next was Kaz and Steve M both of whom had cracking flights. Ray and Kev also put in a second flight each to round off a cracking days flying.

Lovely meal out swift brandy and pool in JJ´s who could ask for more. Quote of the day " best flight ever" well even better than previous best flight ever which was yesterday! Looks like more fun to come tomorrow by the forecast.

Playtime!

Nigel takes some zzzzz's before heading up the hill

Dunno how that got onto my camera!!

Bill with his incontinence pad

Ray kits up in the sunshine

Steve M looking like he means it, who's that in the background??

The wind to the south so it was the main Lejar launch making life "easy". The early flights were in light winds needing a good forward launch to say he least. Ray M did us proud showing a whole que of johnny foreigner how to do it. Bill, Steve and Nigel followed suit all having smooth flights down.

By the time Kev T got going things were a little better and he did a cracking job staying airborne for 20 minutes well down the mountain before hooking one and popping back up. This was enough to encourage Sam A off and he "stumbled" into a thermal to start off his first thermalling flight of well over an hour. By the time I got to the bottom landing field to pick up Kev Sam was alnding and the others had taken off for their second flights.

We had pilots all over the sky playing with the abundant lift, in fact it was more of a problem getting down rather than up.

Kev and Sam put in another flight off the NW launch in nice smooth thermals to round off a cracking day. Early night as the boys are flown out, well nearly early as Ray and Kaz went dancing. Piccies will follow when get time to sort. looking good for tomorrow!!!!!

Locksmiths

Waiting for the sun to rise

Steve, ray and Sam chill whilst Bill gets ready for the off

Fashion model Bill in his newly aquired shirt

A tricky day with various groups heading to various hills but pretty much all ending up with us on the NW launch by the end of the day.

Bill N again led the way with a cracking forward launch followed by Sam A in simular fashion. They both had nice flights down but only little lift as did everyone else who launched. Back on top we had a fun hour or o breaking into our own car inside of which wer our keys, modern technology.................

Keeping fit

Kev and Gerry try to count up to twenty

Kaz chills out at the NE launch

Bill leads the way

Kev gets his "tits to the ground"

Sam A looking like he means it

With a NE forecast it would have been nice to go back to the Big M but as it is resricted to Spanish only at weekends we made the plesant stroll to the NE launch at Lejar instead. Despite the fickle conditions which challenged plenty Bill N and Kev T got away nicely and had some nice fligts down to the South landing field. Despite several attempts and some "bush munching" by various pilots no one else got away so we headed back to the cars.

On the way down we stopped off by the North launch where Steve M, Kaz and Sam A all took off nicely for a nice fligt to the North landing field from where we picked them up.

A fun evening in JJ's followed with plenty to eat and drink, possibly a little to much in some cases!

Montellano Magic

Bill smuggles Sam into Algodonalas

Kaz, Steve M and Sam A enjoy the ridge

Sam A passes by launch

Bill N comes into land

Gunny gets set to go

It was a cracking first day out here had a super day at e in Sunny Spain in moe ways than one. We had a full day at Montellano with most pilots putting in three flights each and racking up the airtime. After a nice "downer" in the smooth early air everyone enjoyed some super soaring/thermalling in the mid afternoon heat before adding another evening flight in super smooth lift. Gunny made an unusaul approach on his 3rd flight to the bottom landing field resulting in an early bath.

A very tired bunch returned to the villa that evening pretty much flown out.

Thongs and Bondage

Mark F gets to fly his new Ozone Buzz Z to brighten up and overcast sky

The "Thong and Bondage" club gets a helping hand

Pilot X looking pretty pleased with herself after finishimg her CPC tasks

Nigel W watches as Sarah takes one to the top and the line drops away

Nigel W comes in after the last line of the day

On what looks like the last good day before we head out to Spain we had plenty of flying and lots of progress.

The hangers had a full day with Saied Z (Bracknell) cracking the chest release, slow flight appreciation and prone flying looking much smoother all round. Landings are improving although those nice floaty tippy toed ones still allude him. Bit worrying during the day to see him tied to the front of the truck though, still whatever works............

Mike P (bath) had another good day popping in the high flights with prone conversions, slow flight appreciation and "spot" landings. He also was looking much sweeter by the close of play, another few landings by the windsock and it's off to the hill for him too.

Pilot x joined in the fun on the hangers and finished their CPC off with a cracking stall and slow flight appreciation whilst in total control. Super landings gave a good example to the boys and something to aim for. Well done Kaz, damn I've let it slip!

On the Paragliders Sarah and Nigel (St Just) had a stonker putting in 12 and 9 flights respectively with Sarah getting her first high flights in. They both did really well working into their CPC tasks including, speed to fly, weight shift accelerator systems and spot landings. With the day starting a little bumpy and then smoothing out the had a fine time and even managed to enjoy the views.

With over 50 tows put away a good day to end on before our "holiday" well done to all concerned..........Phippsy

Up Up and away

Rear view of Rod as he puts his weight onto his back foot

Kaz got hold of the camera as Dan hang checks

Saied with his thong attachment

Ok back to the serious stuff Mike P flies by

Dan L heads off to his first release flight

Well not quite but it could have been with the amount of thermals around.

It was a cracking morning with no less than four "hangers2 out and only one para' and even then he was actually on for paramotoring! With the wind from the east we were pulling through the gate giving us a much longer tow and resulting in much higher ones.

Mike G (London) finished off his stay with some stunning flying trying out a "new" wing and harness as well as putting in some thermalling right over the start gate much to our envy. a great way to his "come back" to flying just a shame we could not get him to the hill but when we do all the hard work is well behind us.

Saied (Bracknell) spent the day sorting out his prone flying and moving onto the chest release and trying out slow flying appreciation. He had some nice tows but needs more work yet and really needs to relax annd let his flying flow, maybe tomorrow.

Mike P (Bath) had a super day looking very pleased with himself as he got to grips with the Large Fun 2 which he liked. He soon had the chest release sorted and was putting away the prone flights whilst getting used to the wing, good day Mike.

Dan L (Truro) was back to get seriously going on his EPC and had a busy day putting away the low level non release flights before getting going on the 50' release ones. His take offs and flying are great but landings do require legs to be under us, still he did have some good ones and i am sure he will get plenty more soon.

Rod G (Falmouth) got his first high flights in on the Paraglider and had a cracking first one releasing straight into a thermal and with a little encouragement circling the field before be talked out of it to come back down. By the end of play he had put away 4 in total so is now ready to start the Paramotor stuff...............

Mark B (Newquay) came along for a Tandem flight and had a fun time on the longer tow with superb views to be had on what looked like a summers day. Shame he was a little early for the thermals but still a great experience.

Geoff H (Honiton) was back out on his Paramotor having another glorious day flying all over west Cornwall and getting a sun tan!

Looks like last day of play tomorrow before the weather drops off and we head out to Spain for a couple of weeks,hope it's a good one.

Normal service is resumed

Up and under one of skywalker Mike G

Saied debates on which line to choose

Jerry W on his way to the top for the first time

happy boys at the end of a good day (sorry about the focus)

The weather got it's act back together making it a very pleasant day in the tow field.

Visitor Geoff H had a very nice flight on his Paramotor first thing enjoying a super flight up and down the coast before helping out on the bike for a large part of the day, thanks Geoff.

The hangers cracked on with lots of progress into CPC's for Saied and Jerry whilst Mike packed in the tows to bulk up experience for the hill. By the end of the day he had put away 21 of them and his 360's were looking sweet.

Saied moved well into his CPC with base bar and prone conversions along with 180 turns and spot landings over his 8 flights making him a very happy guy.

Jerry W made huge progress moving onto the Mars (4th generation) before putting in his first high flights and also getting onto the base bar. His overall flying looked good and his previous air speed gremlins have been banished!

Nigel and Sarah spent the morning ground handling a Paraglider and are now looking much better with it becoming less of a struggle and more of a game. Over lunch they put away their EPC exams both passing in fine style to gain the first part of their qualifications, well done guys.

Down the coast at Carbis the guys were having a good time on the hill with the Paragliders with plenty of flying and by the sounds of it plenty of coaching as well. nice to see Ray D drop by the field on his way home looking well pleased with himself.

Non Weather

Keiron ready for the off

Jerry W gets set

Very rare footage of Barry H flying!

Bill, the boys and the bike

Not such a sunny day as forecast and whats more some very variable winds giving us a new record of 6 winch moves in one day! Still at least we have that option.

Mike G (London) had another good day on the Hang Glider honing his skills and playing with both the air and the glider.

Jerry W got it together and finally finished his EPC on a Hang Glider with some very nice flying and landings so is now ready to move onto his CPC, well done Jerry.

Saied Z (Bracknell) was back and putting in the high flights on the Hang Glider as well as moving onto base bar conversions. he put in some nice tows and interesting landings.....

On the Paragliding front Rod G (Falmouth) is now ready for the big one although the weather did not play ball for him so he had to be content with a bit more practice.

Peter G (Falmouth) was all ready to go when the wind changed again so using up his days pass!

Kieron C on day two of his Taster session managed to put in the flights and moved onto release flights and turns which has convinced him to keep going through to CPC so we shall see more of him.

Not our most productive day but plenty of exercise and patience required, hopefully tomorrow see's a more steady breeze

Plenty for all

Nigel W at the end of his EPC tasks

Waiting and resting

Sarah gets away nice and straight

Rod G (Darth Vader) was it really that scary?

Another lovely day in the field saw a fine mix of students as well as a few others enjoying the high pressure sunshine.

We got going pretty quickly with Mike G (London) on the Calypso (Hang Glider) spending the day building experience in readiness for the hill. he had another good day playing with bits of lift, exploring the speed range and generally sweetening up his flying.

Jerry W (mid Wales) returned after an eight month lay off to continue his Hang Gliding EPC and worked well through the day getting himself back up to speed. By the end of the day he was looking pretty good having sorted the airspeed thing so doing nice turns and even some reasonable landings. Hopefully he will finish his EPC next day out (tomorrow).

Sarah and Nigel (St Just) were back at it and after putting in some useful ground handling joined the tow line to put in some good flying. Sarah moved well into her EPC with some nice towing and good turns down to land leaving only a couple of flights to go before heading to the top. Nigel had a cracker and worked well to finish off his day with a super flight to the top of the line and a very nice flight down much to his amazement. Well done to both of you guys we are getting there.

Keiron C (Tintagel) was along for the first day of his Two Day Taster which was bought for him as a wedding present! He did really well making the ground handling look easy despite the light wind. By the end of the day he had put in 4 very nice flights across the field and landed on his feet every time. Hopefully he will be back tomorrow and move onto release flights and turns.

Rod G (Falmouth) was also back after a bit of a break and got straight on with some ground work before getting back onto the winch. He did well and was soon back into the swing of it putting in nice tows and turns, top of the line next for him I think.

Barry H (Falmouth) a qualified pilot came along for a few tows and had some really nice flights with the added bonus of sorting out his landings at the same time making them look very easy by the days end. Great to see Wanda S (Porthleven) out to hopefully getting some inspiration for some T shirt designs and enjoying the flying company, it was almost like a party!

Thanks to Bill and Tim for keeping it running smoothly and resisting the temptation as the buzzards cored out overhead!

Summer has arrived!!

Terry P gets ready with the Mars as Mike G circles the field on the Calypso

Mike G overhead on approach

Tony L sets off on his first Paragliding flight

The gang L to R Pete G, Mike G, Cy B, Phippsy

Tony L, Phyllis & Terry P

It was one of the warmest days in the field for the year which was accompanied for a while by some very thermally clouds and plenty of seagulls using them. However whilst nice to see it did make for a very variable breeze until it settled down after lunch.

With 2 Hangers and 3 Paras on we had plenty to occupy ourselves and keep busy.

Terry p was back on a hanger and moved nicely onto the Mars putting away 8 flights and sorting his turns and airspeed out. landings are still variable but at least the approaches are good now its just a matter of timing, ever heard that before??

Mike G (London)was back after a 12 month lay off having passed his CPC tow whilst last down in a week a year ago. he quickly got back into it after a couple of low refresher flights and was then off for some high flights before converting to the calypso which he loved. Hopefully we may see some wind before he heads home so get him to the hill, if not he will pack in plenty of flying in the field I am sure.

Tony L (America) came along for a Taster Day on the Paraglider and worked really well through the day steadily analysing every aspect! With the fickle wind early on he had to put in plenty of effort for the ground work but at 65 years old he did a fine job. Tony rounded off the day with 3 cracking flight across the field which included a great landing to a round of applause. he thoroughly enjoyed the day as did his partner Phyllis who kept her eye on him.

Pete G (Falmouth) back for day 3 of his EPC made huge progress sorting out his landings again to a round of applause and moving onto release flights and turns so setting him up nicely for completing his EPC next time out then heading into his CPC.

Cy' B (St Mawes) was also out on day 3 of her EPC and had a cracker moving easily through her increasing turns before rounding off the day with her first high flights and circuit. A huge smile said it all, looks like she will be back to carry on so watch this space.

Bill N was along helping out on the bike having visited Carbis early on but just missing the slot that saw Paul h taking some exercise.......... thanks Bill

Quote of the day "basically you are a tits and bum man" said by who about who ??

The Young Pretenders and the Come Back "Kids"

Graham A comes in legs and all

Dave brightens up the day after a super top landing

Andrew makes his aproach as the sun sneaks one in

Come back Kids on the left Young Pretenders on the right

With a dubious forecast of the warm front passing and things improving and 4 really keen "hangers" we went for it and arrived at Perran for 11.00 in blustery and damp conditions only to find 3 hang gliders already rigged and ready!! So good to see keen up for it hangers out and abouy again, almost like the old days.

With the wind well off to the south we opted for some tethering to get things going and everyone had a good session in near perfect wind conditions even if cloudbase was a bit on the low side. Luke C (Bath) was first up so getting his first taste of hill flying and was soon "soaring" in prone dealing with the bumpy air well and smiling the whole time like he does. Next was Roger M (Devon) who was back to take up the sport again after a 25 year lay off and within minutes looked like he was in the "zone" and enjoying the view! Andrew M (Bridport) kept his hand in having done his first hill soaring flight last week and proved it was still all in there. Last but not least Dave (Exmouth) also back from the past after a 10 year lay off made it look easy as cloudbase descended even further.

Time for some theory so after a brief chat the guys sat down to their CPC exams taking up a "fun" hour by the end of which they all had passed, picked up a few points and more importantly the wind had veered indicating the front was passing by. As the cloud lifted i took the Mars up to test conditions which were still breezy but lifty so it was Calypso rigging at full speed. Graham A (Torringtoon re rigged his Sport 2 and was next off to have a good flight and finally sort out the top landing at Perran with a very nice one.

The wind mellowed and Roger M led the pack putting in his first hang gliding flight in over 25 years and looking good after a few beats. He did a fine job and rounded it off with a nice top landing showing the way to the others.

Luke was next so having his first hill soaring flight and did a great job quickly working out "crabbing" and thoroughly enjoying the whole experience despite his apprehension. His top landing was text book and his smile even bigger than ever, the culmination of a couple of months work, great.

Back to the "come back kids" and Dave was away looking like he had never been away from the sport and dealing with the by now veering wind easily. having to work a shorter beat he made good height before bringing the glider in for super top landing from the left over the dune so giving a fine demonstration to Andrew who was waiting to go.

Last up was Andrew for his second ever hill flight and again it was faultless. With the wind as far north as you'd like it he soared easily as smooth as ever and even the sun came out on the horizon. He followed Dave's example and performed an excellent top landing slipping the glider in from the left to round off what turned out to be a good day.

well done the guys and thank you for your patience and belief that conditions would improve, it is a virtue!

Quote of the day " that was totally awesome", guess who??

A Sucess Full day

Julian sets off for a 15 minute flight in fine style

Justin playing with the clouds

Wow what a cracking day it was and that was not only the weather. An early start saw us on the hill at Perranporth by 08.00 as the breeze was just picking up a bit making it nicely soarable. Paul h and Kaz were already in the air by the time Mark F (Camborne) was ready to go for what would hopefully be his final hill qualification flight. The wind filled a little more and he was off into nice lift to enjoy a lovely flight followed by a cracking top landing.

next it was Fiona A's (Torrington) turn and she had a super flight looking very smooth and co ordinated all followed up with another good landing on top. A more pilots began to arrive they both put in another 3 flights each all with top landings to prove the point and gain their hill ratings to add to their Tow CPC's well done guys. Rumour has it that Fiona put in another couple of good flights after we left for the tow field at 10.30 , nice one.

In the field it was superb conditions for the Paramotor with Justin and Julian H (Ivybridge) along hoping complete their CPC flying tasks. They both had a cracking afternoon putting away 6 flights each and racking up well over an hours airtime apiece. The sky had a few nice cumulus clouds for them to play with and the wind dropped away by evening so giving them a good range of conditions to experience. By close of play they were sorted having learnt a few more tricks and potential pit falls. The guys have done really well achieving this over 5 days spread out over the last month or so and are now in a position to fly on their own as restricted licence holders.

A long day but great to see such progress by all concerned. will try and find some piccies soon

Sunny spell

Another damp start saw us late into the field but by 12.00 it was nice and sunny. With an "easy" day on PeteC took the opportunity to hone his skills and provide the demo' flights for the students.

Pete G (Falmouth) along for his second day was joined by Cywern B (St Mawes) also on her second day on the Paragliders and enjoyed nice conditions to practice some ground work. Pretty soon they were both onto the winch with Cy' leading the way with a superb first flight across the filed. No sooner had she landed than the wind changed 180 degrees so it was all move.

By the time we had reset the day was getting a little overcast although towing conditions were good. Pete c tested the air and declared it buoyant.........

The guys put in some nice tows before the rain started so putting a holt to proceedings. No sooner had we removed the gate than it stopped so we started and this set the pattern for a while.

Things ended well with Pete and Cy moving ahead into their EPC's and both looking forward to the next day out.

Down Tools

It was a slow start in the filed as we waited for the patch of rain to clear which it duly did by 10.30. The hangers got going quickly with Terry P (Exeter) moving off tethers and through straight towed low level flights with ease. By the end of the day he was releasing nicely and putting in turns to land so taking him well into his EPC.

Mike P (Bath) put in the high flights along with base bar conversions but as the wind eased back so did his "landings". Still he kept at it and had his first taste of the chest release by the end of the day. Yesterdays work on the tethers helped both guys along.

Peter G (Falmouth) came along for the start of his Paragliding course and did very well on the ground side before coming over to the winch. The by now very light wind did not make things easy but he put in a nice flight across the field by the end of the day.

Nigel and Sarah kept at it and Nigel rounded off the day with a couple of good flights on the Paraglider with super turns into land.

A weird day which always looked like it could rain at any time but in fact was pretty good. Anyone seen a tool box?? Sorry no piccies

Blown Away

Mike P leads the way on the Mars with full tethers

Dan L looking relaxed as Phippsy "hangs on"

Terry P deals with the bumpy bits in fine style

Blown away, well not quite but if we had let go of the tether ropes I am sure we would have been. With a "breezy" day forecast and 3 "hangers" itching to get at it we opted to head to the hill for some tethering.

In a good breeze graham A kindly demonstrated what to do before Mike P (Bath) got his first flight on the hill. Along with Terry P (Exeter) and Dan L (Truro) who had come back to start training after their Taster days he had a fun day putting in plenty of airtime as they "soared" in the abundant lift. By the time they had worn my arms out they had all not only got a good feel for the glider but done base bar conversions and even flown in prone!

A hard work day in blustery conditions but again a very useful one which will help the guys in the future.

Stacking up on the hill

Mark flies on his first soaring flight as Manwell gets ready to join him

Fiona A comes into land in front of an audience

Andrew M settles into his first soaring flight on the Calypso

Pilot X looking smooth on their soaring flight on the Eagle

Paul H sits down as he flies the Falcon

Well i love it when a plan comes together and today it did. We made an early morning decision to go to the hill based on a stronger than forecast wind. At Perranporth it was well strong enough if a little off but this gave some of the guys a little time to to ground handle before it became flyable.

Mark F (Camborne) got his first taste of the hill and after getting a feel on the ground did a good launch and was soon soaring nicely up and down along with several others. having settled in conditions started to drop off lift wise so we slipped him in for his first top landing which was acceptable if not perfect. A short break and he was off again to enjoy another cracking flight looking even better than before and this time the top landing was on the nail. A great start to his hill flying career.

Gary V (Plymouth) got in the air having done some towing with us to get back into flying and had a good day with three flights building up his experience and meeting new friends along the way.

Fiona A was next student off and did very well getting away first time and quickly working her way to the top of the stack on her Mojo 3 she cruised the cliffs for a good 15 minutes before we got her back in as the wind began to pick up a little. A first class top landing saw a huge smile and celebrations, nice one.

Next on the Hang glider front Andrew M (Bridport) was first off and had a cracking soaring flight for 15 minutes in amongst the Paragliders and looked very comfortable with it. He then performed a stunning top landing just where we wanted it on the Calypso to a round of applause. Not bad for someone who only started 3 weeks ago and has a 2 and 1/2 hour motorbike ride to get to us.

This encouraged a squadron of Hangers off the hill amongst them recent ex student Graham A, Lanky Al (back from his break) and Rick on his new U2 all joining Paul h who was flying seated on his Falcon. Pilot X joined in the fun on the Eagle 145 and had a cracking soaring flight putting in another 15 minutes in close company before carrying out a first class top landing to round off a very rewarding day.

Lots of good flying and nice to see lots of ex students out getting in the airtime along with the more experienced guys coaching them (thanks to Paul and Bill). We rounded off with a sociable meal in the pub in good company. Perfect.

Stacking up for the hill

The Tandem floats in with Nat' on board

Ashley Rlaunches on his NRG Mosquito

Action shot as Andrew M tries out a line break

Pilot X in the classic "pose"

Sarah and Nigel practice some real hands on ground handling

Good looking sheep

It was a bit grey and gusty when we arrived at the field so we decided to do a bit of theory before we got going to see what happened. By the time we had worked through EPC the remains of the front had passed and it was looking better. A quick test flight to the top showed it was pretty rough up top so we amused ourselves with some sub 100' flights.

Lanky Al M (Bristol) was back after his 2 1/2 year "break" and made use of the lines to get his hand back in doing some take offs and landings. Andrew M (Bridport) also kept low whilst getting converted to the chest release so keeping things safe.

By the time these guys wre sorted and we had a bite of lunch things had improved and after another check flight itwas all go.

Ashley R (Plymouth) got airborne on his powered Hang Glider doing two of the nicest take offs I have seen followed by lovely flights and excellent landings to gain more powred experience.

Al, Andrew and Luke all put in plenty of high flights on the Hang glider with Andrew joining the others on the Calypso for the first time and completing his EPC & CPC flying tasks in 5 days. Pilot X put in a couple on the Mars to keep their hand in and all four of them can't wait to get out on the hills for some soaring.

Nigel and Sara (Tregaseal) put in the hard work with ground handling on the Paragliders and despite their best efforts made good progress by the end of the day with reverse launches and control starting to make sense. They both finished off with flights across the field to keep them current as they progress towards EPC.

Lukes partner "Nat" came up for a flight on the Tandem to see what Luke keeps talking about and despite her nerves had a good time after she opened her eyes.

A nice day and better than we expected when we arrived.

Ground hog day

Gary V gets the day going on the Element

Nigel takes of in fine style with brakes up

Sarah gets it sorted and carrys out a first class "nodding dog"

Ben gets back into the "zone" after his holiday

Amazingly the forecast was pretty much the same as yesterday and amazingly the day followed suit and despite sunshine forecast it was overcast. However, towing conditions were classic making it a top training day.

Gary V (Plymouth, well actually Bermuda) rounded of his tow conversion / recap training putting in 9 flights including asymmetrics to get him firmly back into flying. he has had a great time and been fun to have along hopefully we will meet him on the hills again soon.

Sarah and Nigel W (St Just) were back after their Taster Day yesterday and got plenty of flying in as they started on their EPC's with 9 flights each they were looking a lot more relaxed by the end of the day, releasing the line and starting on turns. If the end of the week behaves weather wise we will hopefully see some more of them, as they move onto higher flights and bigger turns.

Ben C (Falmouth) made a reappearance after a long break and spent most of the day playing catch up before moving ahead into his EPC tasks. He had a good day and finshed on a super flight (7 in all) with some cracking turns and great landing.

Pilot x also had a good one mastering the chest release on the Hang Glider and putting in 5 nice flights the last of which was a beauty. Big smiles all round.

Quote of the day "got any rubbers"

What, no sunshine ?

Mike r gets off on his new glider, wait till you see his harness!

Sara L tests the brakes on one of her Taster day flights

Nigel gets it sorted on one of his flights, is he still running??

Gary V comes into land after a High flight and Big Ears

Sara, Gary and NIgel after a fun day

Back into the tow filed we looked forward to another sunny day but alas despite the forecast it stayed away. Still we had plenty of fun and plenty to deal with.

Sara and Nigel were along for Taster Days on the Paragliders having met us on a Balloon flight a few months ago. They had a fun morning getting to know the Paragliders before we got them onto the winch in the afternoon. By now the weather was on the change and after Sara's first flight things were getting on the breezy 9and damp) side so we held the Para's and gave Mike R (St Germans) a go on his "new" glider, a very tidy Calypso. He had a fine time rattling of 4 or 5 tows and getting used to the glider before it dried up and the wind eased.

By the end of the day Sara and Nigel had managed to fly across the field on the Paragliders and even put in some very respectable landings. What's more they want to come back tomorrow......

Gary V (Plymouth) put in 6 high tows on the Paraglider as he eased his way back into Paragliding and used the opportunity to refresh on his Big Ears. Next time out he should complete his tow conversion and wants to do some asymmetrics which he can't remember doing as part of his CPC.

Bit of a late day due to the weather but we got there in the end and everyone had a good one, maybe the sun will come out tomorrow.

Quote of the day " If you tell me to drop them, I will"

day off ??

Paul h launches on the Tandem to join Kaz and Al

Michel k and Woody share the air with the Tandem

Carmen still smiling after her Tandem flight

With visitors down we decided to have a day off and what a lovely day it was. A chilled morning was followed by a trip to St Ives via Carbis Bay to view the site. It was a little breezy so we carried onto the town wandered around, had a pasty saw the Tate before returning to the car.

Paragliders were now soaring at Carbis so we dropped by with the Tandem and took Carmen and Paul H for a flight (one at a time). They both had a super flight with Carmen enjoying just flying whilst it introduced Paul (a Hang Glider pilot) to the mellow world of Paragliding.

Whilst there we met Alan K who was "keen" to carry out his asymmetrics which he did in fine style with me flying alongside for close observation (on another glider) so completing all his pilot tasks, now the exam goes away and fingers crossed.

A HUGE APOLOGY to Luke H for missing him off yesterdays blog. Luke was down after a bit of a break and had a cracking day with numerous flights on his Paramotor all with cracking launches and even some stand up landings. He has now completed all his CPC tasks so can fly on his own to build up experience before coming back to us for some check out flights. Nice one Luke

It was Buzzing

Carmen gets to grips with some hand tows on the Hang Glider

Julian H up and away on the Paramotor

Coming into land

Julian looking pretty pleased with himself and no, he didn't chop up a sheep !

happy students at the end of the day L to R

Said, Carmen,Gary, Cywin, Phippsy and Mike

Once again things got busier in the field as the fine weather carries on. With a mixture of disciplines organisation was the name of the game.

Justin and Julian (H) Devon) got the ball rolling early by getting to grips with ground handling Paragliders with the Paramotor unit on there backs and worked well through the day perfecting it.

Carmen H (Brighton) was along for a Taster Day on a Hang Glider and put in the ground work before lunch as did Cywen B (St Mawes) who was on a Paragliding Taster Day and Gary V (Plymouth) who was along for a Paragliding refresher course / Tow conversion.

After lunch things really got moving with "hangers" Mike R (bath) and Said (Bracknell starting things off. After a few tows each during which Mike cracked his landings and Said sweetened his turns they both got their first flights to the top of the line so breaking well into their CPC's.

Cy' had a cracking Taster day and rounded of her day with some super flight across the field getting up to a good 60' and landing well. Big smile.

Gary V showed he had done it before and put in his first tows nicely getting in his first release flights by the end of the day so getting him back into Paragliding the easy way.

Carmen got the Hang Glider into the air and gave us some good exercise on the tether ropes whilst she got the hang of it. A couple of flights got her into the right airspeed and from then on her flying was nice and smooth with some good landings to top them off. great day for her.

With the towing sorted for the day it was back to the Paramotor boys who were now ready for the Big One. A couple of practice power launches and aborts first then it was all go. Julian gave it a shot first and did a first class reverse launch take off, as good as I've seen before enjoying a cracking flight up and around the field for 10 minutes or so including nice 360's both ways before coming in for a super landing and huge smile.

Justin followed suit and whilst had to work on his take off a little did a fine job of sorting it out before applying the power and getting away very cleanly. He also had a good flight looking very comfortable in his flying if not in the harness! Another good landing right where we wanted it followed and it was two happy Paramotor pilots by the end of the day.

A long one but loads done, day off tomorrow!!

Indian summer

Said Z gets away nicely

looking good and ready for release

Pilot X gives the chest release a hard stare

The fine weather continues and so does the Training. An easy day in the field saw Saied (Bracknell) back for his second day with us working alongside Andrew M (Bridport) on his third day. Also Caroline P (Seaton) came along for a go at Paragliding to see what it was like.

Caroline did well with the basics of Paragliding but quickly decided it was not for her despite having a talent for what she did. Still that's what it's all about and great to meet such a fun person.

Saied worked hard through the day starting in the simulator in order to sort out his twisting before moving nicely into release flights and gentle turns. By the end of the day an 18 flights later he was flying nicely up to well over 100' releasing and carrying out good turns up to 90 degrees and beyond and landing on his feet so completing his EPC tasks. Nearly ready for the top of the line his flying has progressed well and some basic flaws have been overcome.

Andrew M built well on his last day day out and after a couple of settling in flights was off the the top of the line for the first time. With another 16 flights to his credit he had experienced 180 turns, slow flight appreciation (stalls) converted to prone flight and managed to land "on the spot" by the end of the day, a fantastic achievement. Add to this the bonus of looking down on two F18 jets as they flew past and it was a pretty amazing day for him.

Pilot x also popped in a few flights to see them get their first high flight on a chest release which was a big step. I got to fly a small Wills Wing Eagle on the tow line and what fun it was.

Paul H was also out in the field flying first his NRG Mosquito and then his Doodlebug (power units) on his Falcon hang glider and having a super time.

Disco dancing

It was an interesting day in the field where it was again a lovely day.

Paul H and Pete L had a cracking day playing with their Paramotors enjoying plenty of airtime.

Saied Z was along to continue his Hang Gliding Training which he had started elsewhere but has decided to give us a try. He had a busy day with us taking him pretty much back to basics to sort out his "technique". By the end of the day with a total of 14 flight under his belt he was starting to shape up although the "Twist" does seem to be his firm favourite. Still he ended on a big smile and will hopefully move onto release flight tomorrow.

Pilot X got back on a Hang Glider and rattled off 3 high flights on the Donkey leg before having a couple of low level flights with a chest release. Next stop the top of the line on one.

Nice to see ex student Glyn P out enjoying the sun, riding the bike and even getting in some nice tows. looks like a nice few days coming up.

Two's company

Emma can't help but look at the cloud streets (where were you Coady?)

Mike gets checked and ready to go on the Calypso

Andrew on the Mars for one of eleven

Fine views across St Ives Bay from the Tandem

North Cliffs looking glorious with Trevose Head in the far distance

making the most of the weather we were out in the fields again this time with Mike R (St Germans) and Andrew M (Bridport) who were back to continue their Hang Gliding training.

Mike got straight on with it and converted to a chest release before moving onto the Calypso (5th generation wing) to finish off his CPC tasks which he did in fine style. He had a great day putting away 12 flights and thoroughly enjoying the "new" wing. His spot landings were on the case even if the odd flare was a little over zealous, still he was head over heels about it......... Mike rounded off his day by taking his CPC exam and passing it easily so becoming CPC qualified on the tow and is ready to head to the hills.

Andrew M also cracked on jumping straight onto the Mars which he took to with ease. he moved nicely through release flights into gentle turns and by the end of only his second day was releasing at 120' and flying down with some very nice turns on the way. By the time he stopped in mid afternoon he had another 11 flights to his credit and only one flight away from his EPC, pretty good for day two.

With a little time to spare at the end of an early day we played on the Tandem Paraglider towing through the gate which gave some excellent height and amazing views before calling it a day.

Quote of the day " I don't want to abuse myself" ????????????

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Matt B heads off on one of his Taster Day flights

Craig L with brakes nicely up flies on Taster day

John and Phippsy coming into land on the Tandem

Craig L looking happy at the end of his Taster Day

Fiona A now a qualified CPC Tow pilot, yeehowwwwwwww

The day started off not looking to promising with a bit of a breeze and a bit dull. Still we headed to the field in the hope that things would improve and with one of our Taster days having travelled down from Taunton we were keen to give it a go.

Craig L (Taunton and Matt B (Truro) both on Paragliding Taster Days quickly got into it and both did amazingly well with the ground handling in what were "challenging" conditions to start with. Big Mac (Dobwalls) was back for the second day of his Taster session and looked very competent as he "flew" his Paraglider across the filed.

By lunch time things were looking much better with the sun shining and the wind easing back and smoothing out. A quick test flight proved conditions good so we got the winch going without delay. Craig l came up for a Tandem flight as part of his day and made the most of the views before experiencing the feeling of weightlessness on his second flight as we put the Magnum through her paces. Then it was the guys turn with Big mac leading the way.

By the end of the day Craig and Matt were both flying nicely across the filed at 60' and landing sweetly on their feet putting in 3 flights each. Big Mac had cracked releasing and moved onto 100' flights with turns down to land not bad for a two day taster, he really should go the whole hog and take it up.

Fiona A spent the day enjoying her flights having completed her tasks yesterday and had a fabulous day which included passing her CPC exam so making her qualified, congratulations.

John (Liskeard) came by for a Tandem flight and had a great time enjoying the experience and the views giving him a taste for more, who knows......

Sorry Mac didn't manage to get any piccies of you, maybe next time

Quote of the day " that was the best weekend ever" ....... now that can't be bad

Happy days

Justin H gets the feel of Torque with the Paramotor unit

Mark f comes in to Land whilst Pete C deals with the Hangy boys

Garry T "flies" in on his Tandem flight

The Hangy boys discuss tatics

Steve McQueen alive and kicking

Things were a bit busier than yesterday with us at full capacity.

Pete C took charge of the three Hang Glider taster Days, Kaz the Paraglider Taster Day whilst I looked after the two Paramotor boys and the "normal" students.

Julian and Justin H (Devon) were soon at it working their way through the paramotor book and realizing just how much they had already done on the winch setting them up perfectly for converting to Paramotors. Next it was a bit of theory then introduction to the unit and running with it. always quite entertaining but these boys like their power and looked very at home with it.

Whilst they then went of to practice their ground handling Fiona A (Torrington) and Mark F (Camborne) got onto the winch and had a great hour or so towing up resulting in Fiona completing all her CPC tasks including Big Ears and Asymmetric's which she performed with some entusiasim..... mark sorted out his Launch Marshaling so is now a Qualified CPC Tow, congratulations.

Meanwhile Pete C was working away steadily with Terry P (Devon), Dan G (Exeter) and Dan L (?) on the Hang Glider doing a fine job. They all worked hard and by early afternoon were hand towing and then ready for the winch.

Mac M (Dobwalls) under Kaz's guidance perfected his ground handling and was soon on the winch putting away 5 flights by the end of his taster day including 2 release ones so ending on a real high.

The Hangy boys then took over on the winch and had a great time starting with "moon walking" before getting their feet off the ground. by the close of play they had all got the hang of it and were flying nicely across the field with PC chasing hard on the tether. Their overall progress was excellent and a credit to Pete C.

Gary T dropped by for a tandem flight and was amazed by the whole experience, always good to take such people, maybe he will be back for some solo flying.

The day rounded off with myself getting in a demo' flight on the Paramotor and very nice it was to.

Another busy one but again loads done and great student progress.

A very civilised day

Andrew m gets ready for his first launch

Andrew gets the "hang" of it on a low flight

Mark G puts in the ground work

Summing up his Taster day on a Paraglider mark looks happy

Marie and Geoff do the paperwork before their Tandem flights

It was an "easy" day in the field with excellent conditions and everyone behaving, well nearly.

Mark G (Iloogan) was along for a Taster day on a Paraglider, Andrew M (Bridport Dorset) was on Day one of an EPC Hang Gliding and Mike R (St Germans) was on Day 4 of his Hang Gliding course.

Mark G had a top day moving through the groundwork steadily and making the hand tows look easy. Andrew M did pretty much the same on the Hang Glider and by lunch time they were both sorted and ready for their first flights on the winch. By the end of the day Mark had put away 3 cracking flights improving with each one and ended with a beauty landing perfectly and collapsing the canopy in text book fashion.

Andrew kept going on the Hanger a bit longer and was looking good by the close of play, off the tethers and even managing his first release flight, very good for day one.

Mike R had a "top" day going to the end of the tow for the first time and boosting his confidence tremendously. his overall flying improved noticeably as did his landings! He knocked off several more tasks for his CPC including prone flight and spot landings.

Marie and Geoff L (Gwinnear) dropped by for some Tandems flights on the Paraglider and had a fine time enjoying the whole experience and stayed around to watch the students as well. We may see them again, who knows?

Quote of the day "It's so much better when you go to the top"

Combining

Mike R at launch whilst Phippsy does the "work"
Mike makes a classic take off, lovely hand position.

Line released

Coming into land with a flare a bit on the early side

It was a breezier day than yesterday so mac who was along for a two day Taster on the Paraglider to an early bath to save time for the weekend when it is forecast to be lighter.

Chris B (Bristol) was along for a Day on the Hang Glider and showed a good degree of ability from the start jelling with the ground work easily. After lunch he put in a few hand tows before putting away 4 tows on the winch some of which were better than others but all showed improvement in various aspects.


Caraoline P (Looe) worked hard going through the ground work alongside Chris to sort out a few basic problems before getting on the line. Converting from the Condor to the Mars went fine but getting her legs under her at landing seems a challenge.......


Mike R (St Germans) had a good day towing well in the by now bumpy conditions to finish of his EPC tasks so gaining his first qualification in the sport and showing that the high flight and circuit is next on the cards.

To top the day off the "Bird seed" field has now been cut and baled so giving us up to 550 m tows on the right directions, hmmmmmmmmmmmm


Quote of the day "what a difference a couple of inches makes"

Oh what a Perfect day

Justin H gives a commited launch

Julian H does the "nodding dog" bit right from the start

Greg C on one of his hisTaster day flights doing fine

Quentin also on a Taster day flight looking spot on

Fiona A crrys out a perfect landing after a high flight on her very pretty Mojo 3

"Men at work"

It was all go in the field with the early birds getting set up and ready to tow by the time Kaz arrived with the Taster days. Brilliant blue sky and a super light sea breeze gave the perfect training conditions and everybody made the most of them.

Luke C finished off his CPC on the Hang Glider moving through the double chest release before moving from the Mars to the Calypso. Putting away a total of 7 cracking flights he is well set up for his move to the hill, congratulations.

Rob Lee also on a Hanger made huge progress and moved from the Condor to the Mars to complete his EPC tasks over 8 flights and looked very comfortable with it. he rounded of his day by taking his exam so becoming a qualified EPC pilot, more congratulations.

Fiona A had a blinder quickly moving through the remainder of her EPC tasks on her Paraglider before towing to the top of the line and setting about her CPC tasks. Over her 8 flights she had a fine time and got to grips with weight shifting, speed to fly and accelerator systems as well as some excellent spot landings, a top day.

Brothers Justin and Julian H from Devon back after a Taster Day did really well putting in 11 flights each to complete their EPC Paragliding tasks along with 3 high flights each so setting them up for concerting to Paramotoring which is their aim.

Greg C (Falmouth) and Quentin (Penzance) were both along for taster Days on Paragliders and both had super days doing well with the ground work before getting airborne in the afternoon. they both managed 3 good flights getting up to 60' before carrying out stand up landings with big grins. " Amazing day" was the comment.

Paul H had a busy time on the winch putting away 56 tows, many thanks to him from all concerned.

Quote of the day " You want to try the ring next time"...................

Will upload piccies when get time.

A very sociable day at the sea side

Loads of lift and Steve J has the sky to himself

Steve cruises the ridge with a super view of St Ives bay

Carbis Bay was the venue and with a good forecast we hoped for plenty of flying. As it turned out things were a bit more blustery than forecast making the take offs interesting.

Still there was a good crowd there with 5 hangers, 4 danglers and a couple of interested parties so we whiled away the time with stories and jokes whilst the wind blew. Luke h managed to get in some tethering on the Mars to give him his first taste of the hill and i kept on testing conditions on a hanger to see what it was like.

By 16.00 it was a bit better so Steve J decided to give it a shot and had a fun take off into the wall of lift before climbing out in steady lift. he had a fab' hours flying playing with the glider and despite the wind increasing to 25 knots showed that the Sport 2's can really get around. His top landing was spot on and his smile said it all. With the wind still top ending we called it a day and returned home with plenty of sun and wind burn to our credit.

A question of sport

With a full days towing planned it was disappointing to find a dull drizzly morning so plans were put on hold. However not wishing to waste time Mike R (St Germans) and Luke C (Bristol) dropped in to do some theory and sit their EPC and CPC exams respectively. Both did well passing with flying colours by which time the sky looked a little better. We moved to the filed where things looked good and quickly got the guys in the air whilst Mark F and Fiona A did some ground work on the Paragliders. Mike moved nicely onto the Mars whilst Luke started to get to grips with the chest release both doing well until the wind got a bit gusty and the damp returned so we called an early day.

Caroline P just missed out on the flyable slot but along with Fiona stayed on to take their EPC exams in Hang Gliding and Paragliding respectively and again both passed with flying colours.

So whilst not as good as hoped we did manage to catch up with the theory and examination side of things and well done to all the passes.

Lucky Gliders and a Lucky Girl

We were a little late heading off to Struddick farm but as it turned out we arrived spot on time as the breeze had filled in nicely and come spot on the hill. Martin R (St Germans) was first off to demonstrate the top landing to the "new boys" then it was Big Grahams turn. taking off over the hedge was a new experience but he did a top job and was soon climbing out in the smooth lift. What a change from yesterday, he had an easy time of gaining height and was soon at the 600 ATO mark topping out above the other flex wings. The flight gave him plenty of time to zip up the harness, play with the trimmer, learn more about the Sport 2 and carry out 360's all before coming in and performing a nice top landing on the spot. His comment "it's so much better than the Calypso" well I should hope so!

D Derek was next and got away in his own style and again found nice smooth steady lift. He too had plenty of time to experiment on his new Sport 2 whilst enjoying both the flying and the views. After a few 360's he practiced flying out of prone and on the uprights in preparation for landings and looked pretty happy with it by the time he decided to come in. Another first class landing saw him back on the ground with a huge smile and goose pimples from only flying in a T shirt (on top half).

Then it was Jessica's turn who had come along for a Tandem flight as her 18th Birthday present. She could not have picked a better day. Watched by her family we took of with a good run to enjoy some gorgeous flying up and down the cliffs over the Monkey Sanctuary towards Looe then back to Seaton beach. Plenty of time to play with the air gave Jessica a cracking flight and a real feel for the sport. A cracking top landing followed and a very happy Jessica unclipped after a unique experience. her quote was "even my mum would like this, it's not scary at all"

Nice to have Tim J along with us who also had some lovely flying and nice to see a couple of rigids turn up and share the air. So that's D Derek and Graham A well on their way with several hours soaring now well under their belts on Hang Gliders, keep it up boys and get out whenever it's god and you can, remember if you can get the first 15 -20 hours in in the first 6 -12 months you will almost certainly stay in the sport, if you don't chances are you will drift away.

Good luck to Trigg and Martin the coaches..........................

The Fantastic Four go flying

D D wlks Steve J to the front for his first flight on his new wing, the other gliders wit patiently behind
Steve j looking good and nicely colour co ordinated

The Big guys discuss big things as grahm a gets ready to go

Graham gets airborne at the start of his first flight on his Sport 2

Graham A also looking good and also very good on the colour front as he soars past

Normally when someone gets a new glider we expect weeks of unflyable weather, so with 4 new wings arriving at the same time we didn't expect it to be flyable till Christmas, but that was not the case.

Perranporth was the venue and after an hour or so assembling the wings , setting up hang points and sorting harnesses I had the very pleasurable job of test flying all the wings in quick succession and very nice they were to.

The guys puled straws to see who was off first and Steve J (Oakhampton) was duly selected just as the wind dropped and swung off the hill. Still after a short wait he was off and had a super flight quickly settling into his Wills Wing Sport 2 / Woody Valley Flex combination. Doing well in the less than perfect conditions he put in a solid 30 minutes mixing it with some Paragliders before coming in for a very acceptable top landing in the alternative landing zone as the wind was by now a long way off. Big grin and thumbs up showed all was well and he loved the glider and harness.

Graham A (Torrington) was next on another Sport 2 / Flex set up and did a fine take off in to the dropping breeze. Still despite the weak lift he managed to work his way up and had a nice 10 minutes soaring and getting settled into the glider before the the wind moved off even further sending him to the beach. graham did a cracking landing right at the bottom of the dune so making the retrieve as "easy" as possible. 25 minutes later we were back on top and ready for the next one.

As it turned out Grahams delay proved useful as by the time Pilot x was ready to go on their newly acquired Wills Wing Eagle 145 the wind had squared up a bit and filled in again. They did a first class take off and were quickly soaring way above the hill in good lift. 15 minutes later and after looking very settled on the wing they came in and performed the best landing of the day in the normal place. More smiles and congratulations followed, 3 down and one to go.

D Derek was last off as the beach began to close in on yes you've guessed it, his new Sport 2 / Flex combination. Another good launch was followed by some classic soaring with Derek looking smoother and smoother with each pass of the ridge. 20 minutes and it was time to come in before we lost the beach and he made it down first time in an unusual style as near to the front as you could get on hi feet and without touching the glider on the ground, nice one.

It was a very happy group of Hang Glider pilots that packed away their new kit at the end of the day and all looking forward to the next one.

So good to see four new "Hangers" starting out on their flying careers and we as a school feel both proud and privileged to be involved with them, thank you guys and gals.....who's next?

Quote of the day " I don't mind having a short one" .................

Sorry not got piccies of everyone can't find my camera

Wet & Windy Wales

The Bank Holiday and a few days either side saw us in mid Wales for the final round of the British Open Series Hang Gliding Competition. Courtersy of Bill N we were in luxury accomodation causing some envy from the other pilots for a change.

The Friday was blown out but the Saturday saw us up bright and early (thanks Bill) to hopefully catch a use able slot on the Long Mynd before it got to windy. By the time we (Kaz, Bill N, Graham A & myself) arrived at 06.20 there was already a Hang Glider rigged and ready to go, who could be that mad, oh yes Pete Atley! It was too breezy for the Paragliders so I test flew a small Wills Wing Eagle that we had just picked up whilst Pete a beat up the ridge enjoying the lack of other pilots.

Back to Bills Camper for breakfast then back up the mynd for the Competition task which was set at 82k cross wind to Uttoxeter, a serious challenge given the by now strong breeze (25-30mph). I was first over the back and did pretty well under a grey sky getting past Telford before decking it at 42k's. After about 15 minutes on the ground the sky brightened up and the gaggle flew by although most were on glide and only made a few k more. However Gary Wirdnam on his Wills Wing T2C that we sold him early this year made it all the way to win the day with a stunning flight.

The rest of the comp was either blown or rained out but we had some good laughs and Graham A and Gunny did manage to sneak in an evening flight on Paragliders late on the Saturday.

Overall scores saw myself finish 5th with Garry W winning the series giving Wills Wing a good result with four in the top ten. here's to next year

Here and there

Well it was early in the morning and there wasn't anyone around
Kaz climbs out from launch at Chapel Porth

The Dual takes off at Freathy in gorgeous conditions

Setting up for landing

Dan, Phippsy and Cat' all pretty happy after some stunning flights

It was an early start to catch the slot before the forecast wind picked up. 08.00 saw us rigged and ready at chapel where the wind was on but very much on the light side. Still it was a beautiful day so we waited patiently until John W turned up along with some breeze and we enjoyed a fun couple of hours playing in the fickle lift. With the wind moving off to the south a bit we headed home for lunch and to check out conditions for the tandems we had planned for the afternoon.

A bite to eat and it was off east to Freathy to meet up with Dan and Cat who were down on holiday in an VW camper and hoped to get in the air on the Hanger. On arrival it was plenty windy enough so after testing conditions with Kaz and flying over the cafe where Dan and Cat were sat we were ready to go. Student Mike r took the opportunity to find out first hand what he is striving towards and had a super flight before as the other two arrived in the filed.

Next it was Cat's turn and with the breeze on the increase we had a cracker with stunning views of Plymouth Sound and Plymouth itself in abundant lift. Plenty of height to play with the air and put in a few 360's, stalls and wobbly bits. Rounded off with a good landing it made a unique part of her birthday present from Dan. Then it was Dan's go and we took off into strong lift going up like an elevator before exploring the ridge and flying with the seagulls. After a while and a few 360's Dan went a little quiet as the motion caught up with him so we smoothed things out. Another lovely landing saw us finish off a full day of flying just as the wind got a bit on the strong side. maybe more tomorrow, who knows

Amazingly we met up with Martin R and not even the sniff of a sausage!

Birthday Boy surprise

Matt H comits aviation on the Dual Hang Glider

Trigg very committed on the Calypso

Trigg climbs out while the Dual soars above

Matt H looking happy as we come into land

Making the decision early to can towing on the forecast of increasing wind we loaded up with Hangers and Para's and headed to vault bay where we hoped it would be a bit drier as the drizzle was already into west Cornwall.

On arrival it was nicely on the south launch and nicely soarable for Hangers but a bit strong for the Paragliders. Trigg ( still down from Cardiff) was first off on the Calypso and had a really nice flight popping her down in front of the hedge just before a damp patch came through.

Not long after it was almost Sunny so Tony P (Birmingham) took the opportunity to come up Dual on the Discovery, well more as a test dummy actually, and we had a cracking flight in the abundant lift.

Next it was Matt H's (Plymouth) turn as passenger as part of a gift his wife had bought him for his Birthday and what's more it was his birthday today so what more could you ask for. We had a super flight cruising the cliffs with the seagulls and it wasn't long before Trigg cam up alongside on the Calypso. By the time we landed the wind was easing back so Tony P got out his Paraglider and made a clean getaway into strong lift. if anything a little to strong resulting in him landing in the field behind the hedge having run out of penetration ( a common problem i believe).

All good fun and plenty of smiles

Sneaky one at Perran

Mid afternoon and after writing the day off due to mixture of wind direction and dampness things began to look better. Trigg (Cardiff) was sat in the kitchen drinking tea as the sun came out and didn't take a lot of convincing to come and have a look at Perran.

On arrival the wind was only a little off and at a nice strength so within 15 minutes Trigg was in the air on a Hanger (Calypso). Doing well i followed suit on the Mars for a demo' flight to Pilot X, after a couple of beats i put her in on top and we swapped around.

By the time we got sorted and back to the front Trigg was scratching as the wind eased and swung off the hill, 5 minutes later he was on the beach! Decision made Pilot X unclipped and went Paragliding whilst I helped Trigg up. The wind further dropped resulting in a very tidy slope landing for the Paraglider and it was time to go home, nice surprise though and Triggs first flight at Perranporth

Hard & Soft Sausages

Mike R looking keen at the start of day one on his hang glding course

Mike R looking good on the tow near the end of day one

Mike R looking like he knows what he is doing as he floats down to land

Luke C putting in a nice flait to land on his feet by the spot

Luke C looking happy at the end of day 4 on his course having just completed his prone conversions

It was a fine day in the tow field where the hangers were out to play in force. Mike P put in a couple of tows early in his pursuit of the perfect landing and managed one on only his second flight, nice one. He then took an early day to give his muscles a bit of a rest and sort out a few dozen phone calls!

Luke C (Bath) was back for more and had a stunning day putting away 16 flights and moving well into his CPC tasks flying nice and smoothly. Another good day should see him sorted on the tow and ready for the hill so fingers crossed.

Mike R (Plymouth) was along for day one of his Hang Gliding course and worked his socks off with an amazing 21 flights taking him at least 2/3rds of the way through his EPC! His progress was steady and predictable, hopefully he will move onto the Mars next time out whilst Luke moves onto the Calypso. Another nice one................. piccies will follow

Ohh dont't ask abou the sausage thing but there is a trend developing, strange it's always when Martin R is down, hmmmmmmmmmm

Making the most of it

Mike P watches as Mark F sneaks in for a spot landing

"Words of Wisdom" ?

Paul R heads off across the filed on his Taster day

Mick L completes his hill conversion sharing the air with Kaz

It was a very pleasant day in the tow filed with a mixture of hangers and Para's going on. Paul R (Plymouth) was along for a Taster day on a Paraglider and had super conditions. He did well with the ground work before moving onto the winch in the afternoon where he excelled himself putting away 4 flights by the close of play. Paul clicked in pretty quickly with keeping the glider "on line" with minimal input from me, a good sign if decides to carry on.

Mark F (Camborne) was on his 5th day with us and had a stonker working through the remainder of his CPC flying tasks including speed bar, active flying, Big ears and asymmetric's amongst others and then had a bit of thermal to play with to boot. Another good day should see him ready for the hill, nice one.

Fiona A (Torrington) moved withing spitting distance of her EPC putting away release flights and building up her turns and altitude looking very smooth in her new Woody Valley Velvet 2 Harness. Another day should see her heading to the top of the line.

On the Hanger front Caroline P kept at it and made some progress with smoother flying and better take offs but the landings still need some work.

Mike P put in plenty of flights and got his turns sorted nicely but again needs more work on his landings, maybe not chasing the sheep would help!

Overall a good day with plenty of flying in lovely conditions and great to see Big Nick on the field taking pictures so will hopefully get some up soon. following packing up towing we headed to the hill where Mick L was hoping to finish his hill conversion which he did in fine style putting away 4 super flights and top landings in again good conditions. big smile from Mick so please look out for him on the hills and guide him on his way. Long day but a good one, more of the same tomorrow I hope.

Hop skip and a jump

What a super day it turned out to be despite an average forecast. With four Taster days on the go a couple of Hangies and some tandems it was always going to be a busy one. Will (south Devon) and Anna (London) who were down on holiday were joined by brothers Julian and Justin H (Ivybridge) on the Paragliders for their first goes at the sport. They all worked well through the morning in near perfect conditions and were ready for the winch by mid afternoon.

Caroline P (Looe) and Mike P (Bath) got some flights in on the Hangers before the Para's got on the line in what were light ish conditions for them.

The Guys had a great time on the winch with Will and Anna clicking into it straight away and the brothers making me and Pete C work a little harder but getting it sorted and ending up with some cracking flights across the field and god stand up landings by the end of the day.

Will and Anna then took the opportunity to go up Tandem as the wind went corner to corner across the field giving the maximum tows allowing some super flights and views.

By the end of the day everyone was sorted and talking about doing some more, we shall see...

sorry no pictures but may be able to get some from Mike P when i see him