Playing at Perran

Jade after her flight on the hanger, still smiling

It was a fun day at Perranporth where we went to play with a "50/50" forecast. As it turned out it was fine with flying for both Hangies and Para's through the day giving everyone a go.



With some nice sea thermals coming through there was always something to keep us amused along side the "Baron" on his hanger with his feet a dangling. All joking aside as Paul perfects his seated flying i am sure there will be a few more converts to it soon.



Jade (Perranporth) timed it right turning up just as conditions got good for the hanger and promptly had a cracking tandem flight something she has been waiting for for a long time. Flying with the hawks was something special especially as we got the chance to watch one get it's dinner from the air.



Good to see plenty out and especially good to see how well Barry H is getting on with his Ozone Buzz Z3, making the most of it and enjoying it.



Finally the wind dropped off and it was time to go but a lovely day nice and relaxed.

Soaring at Struddock

Big Gray helps out as we launch the Tandem paraglider with luke on board

Up and away Luke gets comfortable

Fiona A gets set to go on her Paraglider

Chris M gets a pre flight brief for the Hanger

The Tandem hangy takes off with Chris as a Hangy flies high above

Struddock farm was the site to be on for hill soaring and that's where we went with Chris W and his new Wills Wing Sport 2 155 which was replacing his Avian Rio. On arrival the wind had just eased seeing the Paragliders flying after Graham A had just landed his Sport 2 175 hanger having had breezier conditions earlier.

Still not disheartened Chris rigged along with several other hangers (all but one ex students) in the hope that the wind would return.

Meanwhile Luke T (Launceston) had arrived with his girl friend (who had treated him to a Tandem flight for his birthday) and the "in laws". We opted for the Paraglider and Luke had a classic flight in lovely conditions flying over the trees, cliffs and Monkey sanctuary. Having done other things like bungee jumps Luke rated his tandem flight right up there and a very different experience. We finished off with a super landing and Luke even kept his breakfast down, hang over ??

Next it was Chris's turn as the breeze filled in and despite an interesting take off (thank goodness for Sport 2's) he quickly settled in to his new wing and was soon up there with the others having a ball. Looking very smooth he explored the glider and the site before coming in to perform a good landing with a big smile. His verdict, well ask him yourself but the words easy and lovely kept popping up.

With more wind we rigged the Tandem hanger to take Chris M (Credition) up who was also on a birthday treat. having watched a few slow take offs Chris did as asked and we sprinted off the hill to start a cracking flight. In by now ideal conditions we mixed it with the other hangers and had our own fly past courtesy of Martin C who was his normal jolly self. Chris was fascinated by the whole thing and did well at flying the hanger himself. A nice landing finished off a super flight to a round of applause by his family who looked happy to see him back.

Lovely day with plenty of ex students out although some of them forgot their Hangers ! Nice to see Big Mike P (Bath) out for his first flight post qualification and his first in his new Woody valley Flex harness doing well and being cared for by the other pilots. Well done Mike but you don't have to land where you rigged!

Thanks for the help guys and the piccies

Lets hope for more good weather as two more new Wills Wing hangers have just arrived for customers.

Well Well Well

We headed to Perranporth as the rain stopped on our arrival was well timed with conditions improving and becoming flyable.

The hangies rigged whilst i checked out conditions on a Paraglider to find them spot on. Sam K headed up from Perranporth town with his Paraglider to hopefully get his second day on the hill in.

Carez led the way on the hangers followed by Paul H on his maiden flight on his new Wills Wing Falcon 195 rigged for seated. The "Baron" had a fine time floating up and down looking very retro before coming back in for a harness height adjustment before setting off again with a big smile.

Next Sam K was off on his Paraglider and had a super 20 minutes in improving conditions before making an excellent top landing to complete his third soaring flight. Sam wasted no time in getting up there again this time with a little more breeze to contend with but again he did gaining much more height as the lift also picked up. Another top landing see's him sorted so keep an eye out for him on the hills.

Anthia C came along for a tandem flight and we had a super one on the Paraglider playing with the lift and just enjoying the whole evening as the sun shone, what a bonus after such a rainy start to the day. Anthia just loved it and so nice to take someone up whole appreciates it so much.

Conditions were much better for the Hangies so Gay J got up there on her maiden flight on her new Wills Wing Sport 2 135. She looked smooth from the word go and soon settled into the glider. Having got to grips with the basics she practiced flying in landing mode at height then came in to perform a super top landing first time. Gay was well impressed with the wing and especially its landing characteristics. Think we shall see a lot more of Paul and Gay in the air on hangies from here on, hooray!

Dan L (Truro) was now rigged and ready to go on his first hill flight on a Hangy having learnt with us on the winch and despite pre flight nerves he did an excellent job with a good take off being followed by 20 minutes of super soaring. As Dan relaxed his confidence and his height grew allowing him to come in for a top landing. Back on the ground he could hardly believe what he had just achieved and did not stop smiling from then on, nice one Dan.

Voytek was also out giving us some entertainment on his hanger as he came into top land but he had a nice evening and was happy enough.

Margret K got in some more tethering on the Hang Glider and started to get more of a feel along with how effective full body weight shift can be.

Kaz who had been up on her Paraglider swapped camps and went up on her Hang Glider to round the day off landing just before the sun set leaving us packing up in the near dark!

A cracking few hours was had by all, Well timed, Well flown and Well done to all

Sorry no piccies

Plenty at Perran

Sam K floats by on his first soaring flight with streamer streaming

Mike C comes into land with legs out!

Al H looking like he means it as he gets set to go

Happy Bunnies

The Condor floats by at the end of the day

It was all go at Perranporth and with a fresh NW breeze forecast easing later in the day there were a good number of hangies there along with the Paras.

On arrival it was a nice 18-20 so the hangies rigged quickly with carez and Kaz getting the airtime in first. But whilst they were in the air the breeze began to drop and the Paragliders began to emerge. Pretty soon the hangies slipped back in to land and the first Paragliders took off in what were by now not so lifty conditions seeing a few go to the beach.

Having completed rigging the T2 C to show to a customer we turned our attention to the Paragliders and pretty soon we had Sam K (Perranporth) up on his first hill soaring flight and doing well as he worked the fickle lift. Add to that several other gliders and he did a fine job looking every part a pilot before popping back in on top to round off his first hill flight.

Mike C (Perranwell) had now arrived and caught the end of Sam's flight so wasted no time in getting his kit ready and was soon ready to go. With a a little more lift Mike launched nicely and was soon up and away cruising the cliffs with his white legs a dangling. Again he did a fine job giving me no worries before coming in for top landing. It took three attempts, but each one gave him more experience and confidence, before he arrived back on Terra firma in fine style with a huge grin.

Bill N spent the day playing with the Rush 2 which he fell in love with, anyone looking for a nice M/L Buzz Z??

Next off was Alan H (Bideford) on a hanger for a top to bottom, his first in over 20 years, and he did a great job of it too with good take off smooth flying and super landing. Carez kindly helped him back up and pretty quickly he was ready to go again. Al's next flight had a bit more lift giving an extended one and confirming that Al's ready to getting soaring at the next opportunity.

Sam and Mike both put in second flights and both did just as well as they did on their first ones despite flying in slightly more crowded skies, Well done guys, nearly there.

Margret K (Cullompton) put in a few runs on the Hanger along the top to get a bit more of a feel for it and looked happy for it. Gay J (Helston) and Chris W (Stithians) both put together their new Wills Wing Sport 2 Hangers which got several pilots droolling and what nice wings they look too but with light lift they gave the test flights a miss to wait for better conditions. Paul H (Helston) held fire with his new Wills Wing (Falcon) also waiting for better conditions, good move.

We finished the day with couple of fun flights on the training Condor (Hang Glider) which just floated around above the Paragliders as it does then came into landed as slow as you please. In fact with me on board at min sink it flies slower than Kaz on her Buzz Z3 at min sink!

Fun day and great to see Gunny back in the air "enjoying" himself and another Wills Wing T2 and Ozone Rush 2 on order!

Lots of fun in the field

Millie after her tandem well done

Tow brief (they look interested! )

Claire shows her father in law Ray how to do it

It was always going to be a busy one and with a good forecast we had a full day in the field.

Unusually it was a day full of taster days with a mixture of hangers and Para's to keep us occupied.

On the Paragliding front we had mates Dave C and Ben M from Fowey and Downderry along wit Millie Ben's daughter for a Tandem flight. Neil C and Hattie D from St Ives who came along having seen us flying at Carbis Bay. Kate R from Plymouth who had her day as a birthday present and Claire D-S from Yelverton who had her day from her father in law (Ray) who we taught to fly a few years back.

The hangies were "Peri" J down from Hereford to try out the sport with a view to taking it up and Margret K from Cullompton who is married to the famous Voytek who we taught several years ago on his hang glider.

Kaz and myself cracked on with the Para's whilst Tim took the hangers and everyone worked well through the ground handling stages with some of the Para's excelling themselves and looking very competent for day one'rs. The field also saw a few visitors (Ray D, Tony P, Nigel W and Bill N) and by midday it was a hive of activity and colour as the paragliders ground handled and the hangies did their ground runs.

Mid afternoon saw us get then going on the winch with Neil leading the way, he set the standard high and the rest did not disappoint as the went from zero to hero putting in some excellent flight across the field and all behaving (well almost) so keeping me stress free.

The hangies joined in the fun and were soon getting their first flights complete with tethers and improving with each one. Peri did very well with some excellent flights and Margret started to get the hang of it with a little help from the tethers.

Millie came up for a tandem flight and had a ball along with putting me through my paces being a little too keen to try the release out, still at least i knew she knew how to do it!

Well done to all the Guys and Girls and thank you for making it such a good day.

Many thanks to the guys for helping out and especially to Bill for helping to search for my phone in the dark at the end of play, yes we did finally find it .

Birthday and School Reunion

parawaiting at St Agnes

Stuarts birthday tandem

Dave flys tandem with his school mate Phippsy

Having cancelled towing based on a breezy forecast we thought we had blown it when Saturday dawned with no wind. But patience is a virtue and having completed some maintenance work the breeze began to fill and by just after lunch we headed to the coast where it was plenty windy enough for hangers and blown out for para's although a few had got the slot for a brief flight as the wind filled in.

We tested conditions by first sending Carez of on his hanger then with myself and Bill N (his first tandem flight) which proved them to be good as well as keeping Bill as quiet as I have ever known him!

In ideal conditions for tandems Stuart H (Kent) who is on holiday for a week to celebrate his 40th and Dave L (Truro) who it turns out with I went to school with although he was a year above so one of the "big boys" both had stunning flight. Ridge lift was good and with the added bonus of sea thermals we had a great time playing with the lift and with the glider. The guys had a go at flying and did well with only minimal input from me. Lovely landings by Steve's stone completed the flights and big smiles all round. With a little time to spare even i managed to get to fly my glider and had a very pleasant hour chasing thermals up to a grand or so before as the light faded it was time to go.

Honeymoon Hangies

Ellie hangs on for a low pass

Ellie snaps as Simon soars

With a cold front clearing and the wind forecast to come round to the north west we headed out for perran arriving at about 1pm.

The wind was off when we got there but soon started to shift and we decided to rig. Within the hour it was a good direction and strong enough for the 2 tandems that had booked in.

They were newly weds Ellie and Simon on their honeymoon ! Ellie went first as Simon was quite a bit heavier and we were not sure how lifty it was. She had a lovely flight playing with the seagulls and even flying the glider herself followed by a tippy toe landing then it was Simons turn. Graham decided to do a running take off (not easy with 2 on board ) but Simon did a great job. After a few beats below the top the pilot in command used all his skill to get back above the top and another great flight was had. I knew the landing may be interesting as with more weight it was going to be fast. They came in resembling a world War bomber but with the help of a few friends we were able to stop them before the dune. Well done Graham.

We then retired to the van with some afternoon tea shared with Dredgy and Glyn P.
By now the tide was well in leaving a very small beach but I figured if I had to I could get it in so I decided to fly my Hang Glider. I had a lovely flight as the sun was setting and although my landing could have been better the whole flight was done with no communication from my instructor so I felt good.

Then it was off to the pub for tea, very nice!

Kaz

Floaty in the field

Malin L comes in for the spot as Trevor h gets ready to fly

Sam K floats back under a cracking sky

Paul C gets into prone flying on the good old Mars

Ssam K looking the business as Andy p floats down

The return of the good weather continues and we were back in the field with a pleasantly busy day.

Trevor H (Bideford) was back on the hangy and continued his progress into his EPC by getting higher and cracking the "secret" of airspeed so gaining consistent control and looking happy for it.

Paul C (PLymouth) joined him on a hangy and was oon refreshed on his high flights and moved onto base bar and prone conversion as well as doing some superb spot landings, oh and even a bit of thermalling to take him a day from his CPC completion.

The Paragliders had a great day with Bob H (Okehampton) and Sam K (Perranporth) having a ball building experience for the hill and also having some cracking flights in very floaty conditions. Both looked well comfortable by the end of the day and the spot landings had to be seen to be believed.

Malin L (PLymouth) who has qualified at CPC on his Paramotor was along to crack on with learning a full Paragliding course to give him the best of both worlds had a fantastic day and always being ready to fly gave him the most tows of the day. Malin moved well into his CPC with some good flying and had the benefit of the super conditions to get several extended flights whilst doing the set tasks, nice one.

Andy P down on holiday from the SE dropped by and put in some tows and had some thermalling around the field whilst someone could be seen not quite getting above the top at Godrevy.

Good to have Cpt Kev back on the winch who did a fine job dealing with the varying pilots and conditions.

Making the most of it

The boys get ready to go on the SW face at Perranporth

Nigel C gets to the base bar

Dan B looking good as he soars down the slope

With a fresh SW forecast we hoped to go to Freathy to complete some hangy hill conversions but reports from site gave it as a bit too fresh!

So we opted to plan B and headed to the hill at Perranporth with the boys from Paignton in the hope that we may find enough SW in it to tether on the SW face. despite it being way off on arrival things improved and soon we were rigging the glider.

Nigel C was first up and soon got the hang of it as did Dan and Adam on the tethers as we made our way down the slope before landing as the tethers held back. Conditions were a little up and down through they day but by picking our times we had some cracking flying with both Dan B and Adam C joining Nigel and by the end of play they were all "soaring" and putting in nice flights with Nigel even getting prone as a bonus!

Even Ant C was impressed enough to have a quick go and did well getting his feet off the ground looking almost relaxed! It was a happy but tired bunch that headed back to Paignton as the sun set.

Full on in the field

James BK on one of his flights at the end of a taster day

Chris B gets set to go as he starts his EPC

Mike C looking pleased as he works into the final stages of his CPC

It was a busy one out in the tow field with pretty much something of everything going on.

The day kicked off with the four hangy taster days, Nigel C, Adam C ( father and son team again)and Dan B all from Paignton on a boys day out being joined by George C (Bath) getting going with glider rigging and the basics.

Meanwhile Trevor H (Paignton) on his 3 rd day with us got cracking on the winch and had a great time moving nicely off the tethers into "free flight" and putting to good use the experience gained on the hill whilst tethering. By lunch time Trev had put a full days work in and was looking pretty pleased with himself.

Nigel D joined in the fun on a refresh day and converted to his "new wing" after a test flight by Phippsy and did really well looking well sorted by the end of the day both on and off the tow line. Nigel is aiming for powered flight so look out for him again soon.

Finally on the hangy front Dan L (Truro) was out for some experience tows in preparation for the hill and also to convert onto his "new " wing and harness which he did in fine style and again looked really smooth on it so will hopefully be hill soaring soon.

On the Paraglider front James BK (Illogan) was along for a Taster Day and had a ball. he had a great time sorting the basics with Kaz in the morning before getting onto the winch after lunch. James put in 3 super flights across the field looking as good as they get, as graham m on the winch said "if only they could all be like that". be good to see James again as he certainly seems to have a talent for it.

Mike C (Perranwell) joined in the fun on his Paraglider and worked deeper into his CPC by completing his Speed bar tasks and getting into Big Ears, hopefully another day should see him there and ready for the hill. Good to see Mike out and thanks for no bringing bad weather!

Chris B (Plymouth) returned after his taster day some months ago and had a good time recapping before moving into his EPC tasks with release flights and gentle turns. But with the wind on the build it was soon to be the turn of the hangy taster days to finish off the day.

James H (Somerset) dropped by at lunch time for a Tandem on the Paraglider and had a couple of cracking flights the second of which saw us thermalling up with a seagull for an extended flight followed by the obligatory fairground ride back down. Both James and his family enjoyed the experience and were then off the beach to see the seals, hope it all worked out guys.

With a perfect breeze the hangies got going again and were soon putting in their first flights on the tow line. George C was first to go set and set an amazingly high standard putting in some super flights across the field straight and level and landing nicely on his feet. Next off was Nigel C who with some "previous" made it all look easy although a hop skip and jump at launch made us smile. Adam C followed suit with some lovely flying and super landings keeping the bar set high for Dan B who was the last to go. Dan had used his time wisely watching and did a super job keeping up the standards with yet more good flying the last of which was nearly faultless! The boys had a great day and all look forward to more, hopefully tomorrow. Special thanks must go to Ant C for helping out on the tethers and keeping a video diary of the day.

Finally just to round things off Malin L (Plymouth) was back on the Paramotor and enjoyed a nice evening flight after a long day of sorting his kit and working out what was good and what was not so good, beware of ebay!

A long day which turned out very good for all largely due to Kaz, Tim and Graham M who kept the whole operation running like clockwork, thanks guys and gal.

Jolly for Jane

Kaz flies high in a super clear sky at carbis

Jayne d sets off on her Birthday present tandem flight

Back on terra firma a happy Jayne, hang Gliding next ??

Despite a light wind forecast it turned out a bit breezier than expected so we canned towing early and after some paperwork headed to Carbis Bay where we took Jane D (Flushing) up on the Paraglider for a super flight. Jane had a great time as did several other pilots playing in the lift which had bits of sea thermal and bits of wave all mixed in. Almost relaxing, looks like a bust day tomorrow in the field.

soaring at Sennon

Kaz shares the air with a paragliding visitor
Hywell gets ready to go on his first soaring flight

Hywell doing the stuff as he soars Sennon

Mike r flies high whilst martin (Dad) looks happy

Big Grin from a Happy Mike

After a Quick visit to Perranporth we headed to Sennon Cove where conditions were much nicer although the beach a little smaller. Whilst we waited for the tide to drop a bit Kaz and Martin R (St Germans) had a fine time on their Hang Gliders in the super smooth air enjoying the views. Some foriegn paragliders kept them company although it was always a bit top end for them.

As the beach opened up it was time for the students and Hywell PR (Pembrookshire) led the way. After a slightly tense start Hywell settled down and was soon soaring up and down the ridge although not at a great height but doing ok. ten minutes or so was enough and Hywell headed for the beach where he did a super landing and made a new friend. Next it was Mike R (St Germans) part of another father and son team and despite a few nerves he did a good take off and quickly settled in. With a little more breeze and a little less weight Mike was soon soaring well above take off and looking good. 15 minutes later he came in for a good top landing to a round of applause and with a huge grin.

A bit of exercise soon saw Hywells glider back on top and whilst he recovered Mike was off again for his second soaring flight. With the previous flight under his belt Mike was even smoother and soon doing his first 360 and exploring both the lift and his glider. Another fine top landing saw him add another 25 minutes to his airtime.

Hywell gave it another shot and after a lovely take off settled down nicely to enjoy a good 15 minutes of soaring now well above take off. Looking more relaxed he did well before coming in for his first top landing, a good approach but a late turn saw an unorthodax arrival but no damage to Hywell. Still he was pretty chuffed at getting soaring and there is always room for improvement!

We rounded off the day with a nice cook up in the car park followed by a spell in a hot tub before heading home, very nice.

Quote of the day "how good is that"

All tied up

Wave clouds in the background as the guys de rig at the end of the day

It was a breezy day at Perranporth despite a good forecast. So whilst we waited for the wind to drop so Hywell PR (Pembrookshire) could soar we got on with some tethering to make use of the time.

Martin H (Bristol) and Trevor H (Paignton) both had a fun time with Martin enjoying plenty of "soaring" and practicing his prone flying whilst Trevor got the hang of things and by the end of the day was looking pretty good as he tuned into the glider and conditions to enjoy plenty of airtime. The look on Trev's face when it all started to click was superb and his enthusiasm is infectious.

Despite hanging on till late the wind never eased back so Hywell had to make do with helping out on the tethers and what a fine job he did too, thanks guys. Some stunning wave clouds set up during the afternoon and it fun to see them develop as time went on.

Hope its lighter winds tomorrow.

Sunny Sennon

With a moderate to fresh NNW on the cards we headed to Sennon Cove for some hill soaring hoping to sort a few hangies and do a few tandems. On arrival things looked good so we wasted no time in getting set up and pretty soon there was 6 hangies rigged and ready.

Joe G (Brighton) led the way and put in his first full soaring flight on the good old Mars looking much more relaxed than yesterday and doing a fine job of it. After a pleasant 10-15 minutes he came in back on top for an acceptable landing just as the wind began to drop. Big smile, debrief and we looked at getting Hywell up there. Alas the wind dropped and before we knew it it was time to get the Paragliders out.

Karen M (Bristol) who after some ground work yesterday and a hill brief took to the air in super conditions to join several others already up there. Karen did a great launch looking every bit that she had done it before and enjoyed a cracking fligt as the wind and the lift filled in again. She put in a bit of speedbar to keep out front and then before it got to breezy came in for a perfect top landing to round off a great flight.

With conditions varying we took the opportunity to get Jackie N (Woolacombe) used to ground handling on the hill and into reverse launches before she went for it. jackie did a super launch in fron of an audience and followed it with a nice flight down and landing. This being her first hill flight in the UK she found it quite different having to fly closer to the hill as opposed to launching off the big mountains in Verbier and flying out.

Whilst conditions did allow some good flying things were not ideal for the tandems so we knocked them on the head and enjoyed the sunshine and views. A nice day with some guys and gals getting well set up to finish their hill onversions.

Puffing at Perran

A full day planned and with a fresh WNW forecast perran was the place to be. Unfortunately on arrival the wind was nearer SW so well off to the left and no good for soaring. However never ones to be beaten we made good use of the time and got Joe G (Brighton) who was down for his hill conversion having done his tow CPC with us earlier in the year to fly the Mars to the beach so we could crack on with Tom D (Midlands) EPC flights.

Joe did a great job with a lovely take off, flight and landing all as the text book says. Then the hard work began as "we" carried the glider back up the steep bit to a suitable launch for Tom. Tom did really well putting in 3 super flights all with excellent turns of 45 degrees (and more) and all with good landings to finish off his EPC flying tasks. Then it was one final carry back to the top where we had a well earned rest. Tom took his theory exam and passed with flying colours to round off his EPC with a big grin, well done.

After a frustrating wait the wind finally came around and onto the hill but at the same time it also dropped making conditions soarable for hangies but not epic. Joe went for it and did well but nerves and over thinking got the better of him so he headed to the beach for another good landing. Kev (dad) offered to fetch him and glider up and that's the last we saw of him for a bit of a while!

Next off was Dave K (Bristol) who having already had a couple of soaring flights a few weeks ago was hoping to complete his hill conversion. Dave did well flying very smoothly and making the most of the lift to add a good 25 minutes to his airtime before slipping in for a good top landing.

The wind continued to vary between ok and not so ok seeing a mixture of flying and beach landings even for experienced pilots on Paragliders. Hywell held fire having done a top to bottom a couple of days ago waiting for better conditions to avoid a walk but the conditions never got good enough.

Still some good work done and hopefully we will get the perfect conditions soon.

Training Tom

We made the decision early to head to the hill as things inland were looking lively and again there was a high possibility of showers inland. At Perran the wind was well off so sending the free fliers heading off to Chapel leaving the site to ourselves.

we had a hard work day down on the dunes bringing back memories of hill training and reminding us just how hard work it was! Still Tom D (Midlands) did well putting in 10 flights off the dunes with nice turns and good landings to take him a fww flights away from his EPC. Hewyll PR (Pembrookshire) was back after having passed his CPC TOw with us in May to get going on the hill nd after a few trial runs along to the top did a lovely top to bottom so is hopefully ready to get soaring if conditions permit tomorrow or over the next few days.

We were also joined by Matt ( Brighton) who is down for a few days instructing with us as part of his training and did a fine job both in instructing and in lugging gliders much to Toms delight!

Day Off

What a lovely day it was on the coast, whilst it tipped down inland with localised flooding we basked in sunshine at Chapel Porth. Conditions were lovely with Mark h, myself and Kaz all enjoying some Paragliding and being joined by Bill N by mid morning. Graham M then cam up on his new Wills Wing Sport 2 hang Glider as the wind filled in a bit more. This was the sign for us to change wings and pretty soon Graham was joined by Mark h and Kaz on their hangers.

A few hours later and it was all change again as the wind eased back until finally dropping right away to become unsoarable, lovely day.

Towing Tom

With light winds and showers forecast we decided to give the tow filed a shot to get Tom (Midlands) started on the winch. Itturned out to be quite a nice day with only a little dampness around, well at least where we were although the wind was in a fickle mood. With reguklar winch moves we managed to put 17 tows into Tom who moved well into his EPC tasks as he cracked release flights and gentle turns. It was a full on day for him as due to the direcation we were unable to do high flights for Paul C and Mike C who both waited patiently to complete there CPC's but it was not to be.

Mark H kept us entertained as he flew his power unit out of the field to enjoy some nice cruising around the countryside and along the cliffs.

Tethering Tom

After what has to be said was a pretty damp and dismal morning things began to clear up by mid afternoon so we headed to Perranporth with Tom D (Midlands) who at 16 wants to get out there Hang Gliding. We had what turned out to be a super evening getting Tom airborne on tethers and by the end of play he was looking pretty good as he "soared" down the slope before being brought back down to earth by the tethers, great fun.

Hopefully we can get him out in the tow field tomorrow. Thanks to Mark H (Honiton) who is down on holiday for his help!

Britsh Nationals France

We had a fun time at the British nationals in Laragne and although due to the more than normal west winds (which they have suffered all year) there being less flying than normal we did have 3 tasks with some cracking flying.

Laragne never fails to impress me and after over 20 years of going there I learnt more about the place this year than ever, even getting to know some of the ridges names!

Task One saw us have a hard days flying with no one actually making goal, despite me trying for nearly 6 hours I fell short of the second to last turn points along with lead pack who had got there some 2 hours earlier.

Task two was better conditions but still kind of wierd with some normal hot spots not working. I had a good one catching the early starters and hanging in with them to goal. Some great climbs and long glides saw us head south where about a dozen made it giving me second on the day and top Brit.

The last task was bigger and better and with all to play for it was the one to decide the champion. Again things went well in fact really well with climbs up to 10,000' and some super air to glide in if you were in the right place which fortunately I was. As i approached the final turn point Things were good having overtaking all the competition but one who i was catching up nicely. A simple last leg should see it in the bag. One mistake, saw me in big trouble which took 45 minutes to sort out whilst kissing the trees and the championship slip away, still most pilots can say the same and its the one that does not make the mistakes that wins. Well done to Dave Matthews.

A lovely time overall with good company and relaxing days also a good result for Wills Wing with 6 out of the top ten 2,3,5,6,7 & 8. Heres to next year.

Bon Voyage

Yes we are in "Sunny " France well at least it has been sunny for the past few days although we have had a little rain this morning hence time to catch up the blog.

First day here we spent relaxing in 27 degrees in the Gorge whislt watching the gliders circling way above under a blue sky. Next day whilst the girls went shopping we made a late trip up the hill but did not bother to rig as conditions looked fickle.

Yesterday went up and got the girld off the south launch on the Paraglders for a nice flight to the fish field then rigged up on top. By the time I was ready things were looking not too hot but after a long wait my flying buddy Steve G got off and climbed in gentle lift whilst I waited for the next cycle. 10 minutes later after encountering strong lift, being sucked into cloud, getting totally disorientated and coming out in an unrecoverable spiral dive he cam down under his parachute landing with no hysical injury although his glider was not so good. Hmm, keep well clear of cloud and make sure you have a big Parachute. Hope things improve soon!

New Toy for a happy Boy

Guess it's something in the air but new gliders seem to be arriving thick and fast and today it was Graham M's turn. having dropped around after lunch we assembled his New Wills Wing Sport 2 175 from its short packed transport state then headed out to St Sgnes to test fly it.

Conditions were perect and after a good pre flighting and float test Graham was off and up. It was obvious as his feet left the ground that he was Happy and the rest of his flight confirmed it. Perfect landing huge smile and the comment "it goes where you want when you want" kind of said it all. Grahams been flying for over 25 years and also has a Talon (Topless) so knows his gliders, my feeling is the Sport 2 will be the one he flies most.

Whilst out on site Laura (Hampshire and husband Paul dropped by for a tandem flight as a late Honeymoon present, Laura was going to go Paragliding in Scicilly but judged it as a bit risky so opted for something back in the UK. She had a super flight despite a few nerves in the classic conditions. Having never done anything like it before she did well although a air sickness tablet may have helped!

Anothet lovely day in Cornwall

Dual duals!

With a fresh northerly on the forecast we canned towing and headed to the hill for some Hang Gliding. With the wind smack on and at around 22 -24 it was superb conditions for tandem flying on the Hang Glider and Kaz and myself were soon in the air to test conditions, they were great.

Spot on time Sarah (Southampton) and her partner Dave arrived for a surprise flight for Sarah, it was not until she saw us flying that she had any idea what was going on. despite having done sky dives, bungee jumps and several other exciting things around the world she was a bit nervy and on the quiet side as we got ready to go.

A perfect take off saw her settle down and relax and within a few minutes she was loving it. we had a great time playing with the air currents and flying with the seagulls. Patrick B came up on his hanger to join us and do a short aerobatic display for us to add to the experience. Sarah had a go at flying the glider and did a pretty good job at it then after a few more tight turns , 360's and stalls it was off into land. What a different girl, we could not stop her talking bout it! In fact she was so excited that she convinced her partner Dave to come up so we did it all again!

Dave also had a great time giving them plenty to talk about afterwards.

Quote of the day "that was bl**dy awesome" where have I heard that before??

Playing at Perran

Classic view of Perran with a very very low tide!

The Tandem floats by the launch

Jonathon enjoys his flight under a Blue Blue sky

Another classic day at Perranporth saw us out there early to get things going. On arrival the wind was spot on and brisk enough for paragliders but do able so we wasted no time getting them out and getting up there. After a short flight things eased a bit so it was time for Rozz (Derbyshire) to get her canopy out and show us what she can do. despite being understandably nervous after her history we took thing slowly and bit by by bit she relaxed. Within a short time she was inflating it nicely controlling it well and collapsing it perfectly also looking a lot happier! Mike C (Perranwell joined her and they both did a fine job of ground handling in fact making some of the more "experienced" pilots look a bit average!

Mark W came along and rigged the hanger for some ground runs and practiced through the day to get a better feel for the glider a stay relaxed which he achieved by the end of play.

Kaz picked up a tandem Jonathon 9 (Yorkshire) who was down on holiday and fancied a flight so we were soon in the air together enjoying the views and mixing it with the other gliders all of whom were very considerate. The beach was really busy and even the sky felt a bit so with several helicopters around.

Barry H got two days on the trot with his new Buzz Z3 and whist we had to encourage him a little as he thought it a bit strong based on his previous wing when he did give it a go he made it look all to easy. Another good flight for Barry and another hour or so into his log book so nearly using up his years quota!

It was a lovely day with plenty of flying going on, even I managed some free flights, Paul H set a new record for packing up then un packing again for one last flight and Mike and Rozz were both very happy with what they achieved and are ready for more.

BuZZing Barry

Having been hard at the paperwork all morning it was a welcome break as the front passed and the weather cleared and we headed to Perranporth. On arrival it was well north and breezy but patience is a virtue and a bit of weather knowledge helps too and within an hour it was nicely flyable.

Rozz M (Derbyshire) was along to hopefully get sorted on her paraglider having started elsewhere but deciding to give us a try and have a holiday in Cornwall at the same time. While the weather sorted it self out we made good use of the time doing a bit of theory and working out just how much she had done and how much she remembered!

Barry H was out to pick up his new wing an Ozone Buzz Z3 to replace his old Firebird Matrix and was hoping it would be the spark to get his Paragliding career going again. As conditions improved Kaz showed the way on her Buzz Z3 which encouraged us to get Barry's out and do a bit of groundwork. Despite his apprehension Barry did a great job on his very first inflation and was amazed at his new found ability! A couple of test inflation's more and he was up and away for a super flight settling into the new wing nicely. 30 minutes later he was back down (finally) after a few attempts with the new problem of actually having too much height, something he had never experienced before. To say he was pleased would bean understatement, ask him yourself...

Conditions were still a bit breezy for Rozz so instead after testing her wing she came up for a Tandem flight to experience ridge soaring for the first time and had a good time of it too.

Kev T joined us as the sunset for a lovely evenings flying in classic conditions and only us there, yummy

Busy Bee's

It was all go in the tow field in lovely sunny conditions. Whilst Coady took the three Taster day hang Gliders I had the rest with the aim of getting them towing early. However, best laid plans have a habit and with a few late comers and a lot of fiddling about things got a little behind resulting in not as much towing as we would have like.

Still by the end of the day we had manged 60 tows so i guess it wasn't that bad! The Taster days had a fine time working hard and by the end of play they were all "flying" across the field with Coady and myself in hot pursuit. Terry and Alison (Barnstable) both ended with good flights and landings whilst Trev (Paignton) got the basics of it in readiness for his next day as he has decided to go for the EPC it was that good!

On the more experienced front Mark W (N. Ireland) got his first towed flights on the Mars along with Erik O (Bristol) as they worked on their EPC's. Dave K (Bristol) converted to his "new" harness before converting to the chest release on the Calypso and loving it.

For the Paragliders Karen M (Bristol) finished off her CPC tasks so gaining her qualification with some nice Big Ears, Asymmetrics and active flying, well done. Tamsin H (Sennen) was out for her second day with us and finished off her EPC tow tasks and popped in a high flights to set her up for her CPC.

Justine (Australia) dropped by to watch proceedings and took the opportunity for a Tandem flight to get a great view of the North Cornish Cliffs at their best.

Pete L and myself had a few flights on the Paramotors to do a bit of "advertising" as the Radio modeller's show was on next door. It was a long day but thanks to Paul h on the winch, Coady on the Tethers and Kaz on the Ball it all worked out.

Ground hog day at Perran !

I can't believe it, yet another cracking day at Perranporth giving more super training conditions all coinciding with plenty of pilots being up for it.

We arrived spot on 09.00 just as the rain cleared and the wind came on the hill, perfect timing. Terry P (Exeter) was nearly rigged as we arrived and after a quick check out flight on his glider he was up and away on day two of his Hill conversion. Terry put in a couple of super flights both with really nice top landings to complete his Hill work so now 2leaves" us as a fully CPC'd Hangy pilot in both Tow and Hill to start his flying career. he will be flying with the Devon and Somerset Condors so watch out for him.

Andy S (London) was down to get his Hill tandem rating re validated having not flown tandem on a Hanger for several years. in perfect conditions I took him up first before he treated me to a couple of flights as passenger doing an excellent job of it too. next we let him loose on Alan H (Bideford) who was down to get back into hang Gliding after a 20 year lay off and having already tried a taster day on the Paraglider with us. They had a good flight with Andy letting Alan have a go at flying and convincing Alan that getting back on the Hangy was the way to go. Andy did a great job with a nice attitude to the whole thing so is now sorted and qualified to take passengers once again, nice work.

Shad C (Surrey) mad best use of his time down here and popped in numerous flights on the Calypso having qualified on the hill on Thursday all with lovely take offs and top landing. By the end of the day he even crossed his legs!

Steve J (Oakhampton) joined in the fun and was along for a bit of refresher to get his landings sorted. He put in a couple of great flights in the first class conditions and put in some extra practice on his landings with a couple of overshoots. But he did not let it phase him and he managed a couple of good ones and learnt a lot along the way so going home with a big smile.

Mark W (N Ireland), Erik O (Bristol) and Alan H (Bideford) all played on the mars with some tethering as the tide came in and the wind picked up. Useful work getting Alan back into the feel of things and the other two ready for some towing tomorrow.

John L (Scarborough) took advantage of the conditions to have a Tandem flight on the Hanger and had a ball. Given the flight as birthday gift having seen it in Peru he may just have a go at taking it up sometime.

Add to this Karen M (Bristol) and Shad passing their CPC exams and it was a very useful day. Good to see several other hangers out there enjoying the conditions and a few Paragliders making use of it as things eased off in the evening. Thanks to the guys for helping out on the tethers and helping each other out at launch another good day.

Quote of the day "is that the normal way to land?"

Will try and add a couple of piccies tomorrow zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Party time at Perran

Angie M gives a wave to the camera as we fly by on the Tandem

Terry P sets off on his first soaring flight

The hangy glider riiging area fill sup whilst Paul H flies

Sam A gets in a bit of tetehering before going soaring

Kaz and Paul look happy after a cracking flight

Wow what a day we had at Perranporth with super flying and super company, it was a cracker. The forecast was what it said it would be with a moderate/fresh WNW but with the advantage of no rain!

On arrival it was clearly a day for the Hangers and they wasted no time in getting into the air with Kaz leading the way.

Shad C Surrey) was next who was back down to hopefully finish off his hill endorsement having already completed his CPC tow with us. He had a super day putting 5 soaring flights all with excellent top landings and even getting 360's under his belt as well. By the end of the day he was well sorted and qualified in Hill as well as tow CPC, well done Shad.

Next up was Angie M (Truro) for a Tandem on the Hang Glider which was given to her as a birthday present. We had a lovely flight in classic conditions with Angie getting a go at flying the glider as well as enjoying the super views of the beach that she knows well from a different angle. A sweet top landing rounded it off with a big smile, nice to meet you Angie and the rest of the family that came to watch.

Terry P (Exeter) made it down by lunch time for his first go at hill soaring having again learnt with us on the tow over the past few months. Whilst he rigged and we waited for the tide to drop back we made good use of the time doing some tether work with Mark W (N. Ireland) who is back to continue his training which he stated back in Easter. mark quickly got the feel of it back and by the end of the day after another session he was looking pretty relaxed.

With the beach opened up Terry was off for his first soaring flight and what a beauty it was. he looked smooth from the start ( the benefit of keeping current i9n the tow filed) and made it all look nice and easy. After a solid 20 minutes he cam in and performed a first class top landing with on of the biggest grins I've seen in a long time. After a break to let others fly Terry was off again for another excellent flight in even better conditions and performed the same super smooth top landing to add another 20 minutes to his tally. he rounded off the day with a slightly more tricky flight in lighter conditions but held in well then sneaked in for a very neat landing back on top. What a day for terry 3 flights and an hours airtime, one more good day on the hill and he is sorted.

Sam Allum (Launceston) turned up and after a few tethered hops to settle his nerves hooked into the Mars and set off on his first Hill soaring flight on a Hang Glider (having learnt to fly Paragliders with us last year). He need not have worried he did a fine job soaring the cliffs and settled down quickly. 20 minutes later he came in and performed a "classic" Mars top landing to a round of applause. He sneaked another in at the end of the day in much lighter conditions to give a different experience but did a fine job and managed to slip back in on top although the "Sam Legs" syndrome did return!

Add top this Rebbekah S, Kaz P, Paul H, Karez C, Patrick B, Andy R and even a visiting Frenchman all out on hangers and there was a lot going on. Thanks to Nigel W and Bill N for their help on the tethers and to Paul H for his coaching with Kaz , Shad and Rebbeka . Ohh forgot to mention we even got Michelle K up on the Tandem HG so watch out guys he could be taking it up!

Quote of the day " that was bl**dy awesome"

Popping out to Perran

With an occluded front passing through around lunchtime there was a likely slot for flying at Perran in the afternoon. Arriving at 14.00 things were getting better and by the time Holly and Harry (portsmouth) arrived it was almost flyable. Holly had bought a Tandem flight for Harry as an eighteenth birthday present and whilst they were down on holiday.

Kaz kindly tested the air then we were off with Harry doing a fine job on launch. We cruised the cliffs with several others and the seagulls before spotting an approaching rain shower so we nipped in to let it clear. Ten minutes later and we were back up again in steadily improving conditions. Harry had a great flight taking plenty of pictures and enjoying the whole thing. A nice top landing rounded it all off giving them a super start to their holiday in Cornwall

Gardeners World

Malin L flies off on the Paramotor whilst Kaz demonstrates to Alan & Harry

Harry sets off on his first Paraglider flight in fine style

Alan straight on the case as he checks his wing

Harry comes back to earth after a Tandem flight

After a false start on Sunday when the weather shut us down Monday turned up trumps with perfect conditions.

Alan H (Bideford) and Harry C (Falmouth) were both along for taster days on Paragliders and Malin L (Plymouth) was back for day 4 on the Paramotor.

Alan and Harry had a busy day working through the ground work whilst Malin made the most of conditions putting in 3 super flights and climbing well up into the atmosphere (around 2,500 feet), enjoying the view, looking relaxed and doing super take offs and landings. By the end of the day he was CPC'd on the Paramotor having passed the theory in fine style, well done Malin.

The Paraglider boys then got going on the tow line quickly getting it sorted and both had a cracking time managing to end up with release flights on their last goes so putting the icing on the cake. Harry also had a Tandem flight as part of his birthday present and just loved it both enjoying the view and the tight turns, reckon he may be back.

With both Harry and Alan being professional gardeners they had plenty in common making it a very sociable day.