Articles
A Prolonged Sled Ride
As I returned to the launch, I started to low. To my surprise, although unable to climb, I was able to soar back and forth along the tree line that bordered the bottom landing field, much to the annoyance of a couple that appeared to be making out in the corner of the field directly beneath me
01 Jun 2013
As I returned to the launch, I started to low. To my surprise, although unable to climb, I was able to soar back and forth along the tree line that bordered the bottom landing field, much to the annoyance of a couple that appeared to be making out in the corner of the field directly beneath me
01 Jun 2013
Truleigh and Traffic
Eventually my paragliding pursuers caught up with me, so I decided to leave them to enjoy Truleigh Hill to themselves and set off back along the ridge…
31 May 2013
Eventually my paragliding pursuers caught up with me, so I decided to leave them to enjoy Truleigh Hill to themselves and set off back along the ridge…
31 May 2013
A Day of Two Halves
With each bit of lift there was also an equal amount of opposing sink so to maximise my chances of staying up, I turned and slowed the glider when in lift, then in sink, I accelerated the glider and moved out of it as quickly as possible…
25 May 2013
With each bit of lift there was also an equal amount of opposing sink so to maximise my chances of staying up, I turned and slowed the glider when in lift, then in sink, I accelerated the glider and moved out of it as quickly as possible…
25 May 2013
Stormy Skies Over the Devil's Dyke
As the rain passed my glider was back to a crisp white. The sky was now beautiful and clear and the wind had now significantly dropped. It looked like there was no chance of soaring; however, with my glider now on the A-frame and wiped down and dried, I decided on a quick top to bottom.
23 May 2013
As the rain passed my glider was back to a crisp white. The sky was now beautiful and clear and the wind had now significantly dropped. It looked like there was no chance of soaring; however, with my glider now on the A-frame and wiped down and dried, I decided on a quick top to bottom.
23 May 2013
Windy Winching!
I had procrastinated about a trip to Suffolk as the conditions were forecast to be strong with precipitation added in for good measure. However, Mike's comments on the club's forum stating that if I didn't come, I would be reading stories/accounts about epic cross countries to the coast, strongly influenced my decision make the journey to Suffolk.
12 May 2013
I had procrastinated about a trip to Suffolk as the conditions were forecast to be strong with precipitation added in for good measure. However, Mike's comments on the club's forum stating that if I didn't come, I would be reading stories/accounts about epic cross countries to the coast, strongly influenced my decision make the journey to Suffolk.
12 May 2013
The Fifty Fifty Bridle
I began tearing down the runway and heard a strange noise coming from the rear of the glider. Just as I was about to release and abort the launch it stopped. I later learned that my pod zip cord was trailing behind my glider and caught under one of the trolley wheels...
02 May 2013
I began tearing down the runway and heard a strange noise coming from the rear of the glider. Just as I was about to release and abort the launch it stopped. I later learned that my pod zip cord was trailing behind my glider and caught under one of the trolley wheels...
02 May 2013
A Sled Ride - Scratchy, Uphill, Downwind Landing!
Everyone else chilled on the hill and did not look motivated to fly, so I clipped in, hang checked myself and launched…
20 Apr 2013
Everyone else chilled on the hill and did not look motivated to fly, so I clipped in, hang checked myself and launched…
20 Apr 2013
Dan's Bowl
Swanborough is always full of surprises and as I turned to set-up my landing approach I knew I was high so allowed the glider to drift over the back to compensate…
29 Mar 2013
Swanborough is always full of surprises and as I turned to set-up my landing approach I knew I was high so allowed the glider to drift over the back to compensate…
29 Mar 2013
Amendments to Aerotow Operations in the UK
In October 2011 a tragic accident happened during aerotow training resulting in the death of a young woman. In a subsequent investigation, the school was found not to be complying with some aspects of the BHPA technical manual…
15 Mar 2013
In October 2011 a tragic accident happened during aerotow training resulting in the death of a young woman. In a subsequent investigation, the school was found not to be complying with some aspects of the BHPA technical manual…
15 Mar 2013
Gale Hanging at Bo Peep
It was no better on the front of the hill as the glider jostled around in the turbulent air. Keith had to retreat as his bare hands had gone numb from the cold so Luke took position on the nose. Eventually, the turbulent air smoothed just enough for me to launch...
01 Mar 2013
It was no better on the front of the hill as the glider jostled around in the turbulent air. Keith had to retreat as his bare hands had gone numb from the cold so Luke took position on the nose. Eventually, the turbulent air smoothed just enough for me to launch...
01 Mar 2013
AirBorne Sting 3:168 Service
My glider goes to John Barratt of Southdowns Hang Gliding for a service which includes the replacement of the side-wires, a chute repack and the fitting of a bridle knife to my harness…
04 Dec 2012
My glider goes to John Barratt of Southdowns Hang Gliding for a service which includes the replacement of the side-wires, a chute repack and the fitting of a bridle knife to my harness…
04 Dec 2012
The Shadow Beneath Me
I'd only made it to Suffolk once this year and I was eager for one last trip there to see the team before the year ended..
11 Nov 2012
I'd only made it to Suffolk once this year and I was eager for one last trip there to see the team before the year ended..
11 Nov 2012
A Grand Day Out!
I skimmed through the edge of the thermal and gained a mental picture of where this illusive mass or rising air was. I cirlced around then pushed into it and found more reliable lift and started climbing, slowly getting higher and higher and drifting back over the Dyke...
29 Sep 2012
I skimmed through the edge of the thermal and gained a mental picture of where this illusive mass or rising air was. I cirlced around then pushed into it and found more reliable lift and started climbing, slowly getting higher and higher and drifting back over the Dyke...
29 Sep 2012
First XC on the Downs!
At 2,080 feet a.t.o, which looked to be cloud base the thermal dissipated and I set off in a south westerly direction. With my eyes focussed on the ground for potential landing options and the blue expanse of see in front, I passed over Woodingdean heading towards Brighton Marina...
22 Sep 2012
At 2,080 feet a.t.o, which looked to be cloud base the thermal dissipated and I set off in a south westerly direction. With my eyes focussed on the ground for potential landing options and the blue expanse of see in front, I passed over Woodingdean heading towards Brighton Marina...
22 Sep 2012
Aerotow at Plumpton
As before the glider tended to float up behind the tug, but as my skill and technique began to improve, I handled it better than I had previously…
08 Sep 2012
As before the glider tended to float up behind the tug, but as my skill and technique began to improve, I handled it better than I had previously…
08 Sep 2012
Back to Aerotow
I was unusually low behind the tug and was jostled about all over the place. I was just about to release when tug pilot signalled me to do so - I assumed he also had a difficult time towing me…
22 Jul 2012
I was unusually low behind the tug and was jostled about all over the place. I was just about to release when tug pilot signalled me to do so - I assumed he also had a difficult time towing me…
22 Jul 2012
Scratching to Truleigh Hill
Once at Truleigh Hill I considered myself to be lucky that I had the whole airspace here to myself. It was at that point it dawned on me that there might be a good reason why no-one else flew to Truleigh…
22 May 2012
Once at Truleigh Hill I considered myself to be lucky that I had the whole airspace here to myself. It was at that point it dawned on me that there might be a good reason why no-one else flew to Truleigh…
22 May 2012
Mooove Out The Way
I had never slalomed my hang glider before, and after I negotiated my way around the first two cows, a third appeared right in front of me. With eye to eye contact with the cow and a collision imminent, I wondered who would flinch first; me or the cow..
21 May 2012
I had never slalomed my hang glider before, and after I negotiated my way around the first two cows, a third appeared right in front of me. With eye to eye contact with the cow and a collision imminent, I wondered who would flinch first; me or the cow..
21 May 2012
Spring Competition
Due to my late arrival I was last to launch. There had already been some notable problems with the winch which varied between cable snaps and tangles, all of which slowed progression through launching pilots and by the time of my first launch, I became victim of another cable snap...
21 Apr 2012
Due to my late arrival I was last to launch. There had already been some notable problems with the winch which varied between cable snaps and tangles, all of which slowed progression through launching pilots and by the time of my first launch, I became victim of another cable snap...
21 Apr 2012
Wonderful Swanborough
Ozzie and I both danced around each other and tried to catch something that would take us higher. There was definitely something brewing as my glider was occasionally jostled around by broken thermals whizzing through…
14 Apr 2012
Ozzie and I both danced around each other and tried to catch something that would take us higher. There was definitely something brewing as my glider was occasionally jostled around by broken thermals whizzing through…
14 Apr 2012
Bo Peep
First stop of the day was Firle, just to check where the wind really was. On arrival it was obvious this was the wrong site and a quick stroll to the front of the hill confirmed this with a significant easterly component in the wind. Armed with this information I returned to my car, had a quick conversation with a walker then drove to Bo Peep. Bo Peep was indeed the place to be...
31 Mar 2012
First stop of the day was Firle, just to check where the wind really was. On arrival it was obvious this was the wrong site and a quick stroll to the front of the hill confirmed this with a significant easterly component in the wind. Armed with this information I returned to my car, had a quick conversation with a walker then drove to Bo Peep. Bo Peep was indeed the place to be...
31 Mar 2012
Firle Beacon
Clipped in and hang checked, I stepped from the shelter of the reservoir into the true wind strength. I worked my way to the front of the hill and within a few paces, I was airborne…
28 Jan 2012
Clipped in and hang checked, I stepped from the shelter of the reservoir into the true wind strength. I worked my way to the front of the hill and within a few paces, I was airborne…
28 Jan 2012
Winching in Suffolk
At a height of 200 feet, the tension increased on the towline followed by a jolt as weak link conceded ending the tow…
03 Sep 2011
At a height of 200 feet, the tension increased on the towline followed by a jolt as weak link conceded ending the tow…
03 Sep 2011
Aerotow
I only managed the one flight, but the adjusted hang point position really made a big difference and I felt more comfortable than my previous aerotows…
20 Aug 2011
I only managed the one flight, but the adjusted hang point position really made a big difference and I felt more comfortable than my previous aerotows…
20 Aug 2011
XC Day!
I now had to concentrate on staying in the lift and after several orbits, the vario continued to sound its happy beeps! I knew I was off and with 1,700 feet between me and everyone down on the ground, I relaxed, waved goodbye to everyone below
21 May 2011
I now had to concentrate on staying in the lift and after several orbits, the vario continued to sound its happy beeps! I knew I was off and with 1,700 feet between me and everyone down on the ground, I relaxed, waved goodbye to everyone below
21 May 2011
Another Dyke Day
Several times I climbed close to 1,000 feet above take off and at one point I thermalled with a rigid hang glider. I was stunned at the speed of this thing as it ran running circles around me…
15 May 2011
Several times I climbed close to 1,000 feet above take off and at one point I thermalled with a rigid hang glider. I was stunned at the speed of this thing as it ran running circles around me…
15 May 2011
A Dyke Classic
Flying around at ridge height required concentration but soon I bumped into my first thermal which took me to 1,000 feet above launch. From thereon, finding lift seemed to be a child's game…
14 May 2011
Flying around at ridge height required concentration but soon I bumped into my first thermal which took me to 1,000 feet above launch. From thereon, finding lift seemed to be a child's game…
14 May 2011
The Royal Wedding… Not!
I launched into a hole; why does Bo Peep do that? I narrowly missed the barbed wire fence and dropped down the hill and didn’t think I could glide clear of the trees to the bottom landing field…
29 Apr 2011
I launched into a hole; why does Bo Peep do that? I narrowly missed the barbed wire fence and dropped down the hill and didn’t think I could glide clear of the trees to the bottom landing field…
29 Apr 2011
A New Site
Firle is more of a series of bowls and as I found out, in weak conditions, it's all too easy to temporarily get trapped in one…
25 Apr 2011
Firle is more of a series of bowls and as I found out, in weak conditions, it's all too easy to temporarily get trapped in one…
25 Apr 2011
Spring Flying
In between my sled rides, Steve B. had managed to get away on a short XC and John C. had somehow managed to climb to 4,000ft above the airfield…
23 Apr 2011
In between my sled rides, Steve B. had managed to get away on a short XC and John C. had somehow managed to climb to 4,000ft above the airfield…
23 Apr 2011
Aerotow on the South Downs
Once released with the tug headed off on its downward journey, I boated around the sky and soaked up the amazing scenery beneath me
19 Mar 2011
Once released with the tug headed off on its downward journey, I boated around the sky and soaked up the amazing scenery beneath me
19 Mar 2011
Off and Onable
Later a third Sting joined us and we all enjoyed a thermal which took us to 700 feet again. The third Sting was exceptional, out climbing Steve and I every time! It turned out it was piloted by the legendary Johnny Carr, test flying it for a client…
05 Mar 2011
Later a third Sting joined us and we all enjoyed a thermal which took us to 700 feet again. The third Sting was exceptional, out climbing Steve and I every time! It turned out it was piloted by the legendary Johnny Carr, test flying it for a client…
05 Mar 2011
Scratchy!
I had assumed everyone had landed so you can imagine my surprise when I looked up from the rear car park to see glider very low, clipping trees before a very rough landing on the road that lead into the car park…
27 Feb 2011
I had assumed everyone had landed so you can imagine my surprise when I looked up from the rear car park to see glider very low, clipping trees before a very rough landing on the road that lead into the car park…
27 Feb 2011
Fun in the Mud
I headed back to launch, burned some height off with some 360's then landed in the muddiest bit of ground I could find
12 Feb 2011
I headed back to launch, burned some height off with some 360's then landed in the muddiest bit of ground I could find
12 Feb 2011
Where's Will?
I watched as Cathy towed Will through a hole in the clouds and continued upwards. We quickly lost sight of them as they continued above the cloud…
01 Nov 2010
I watched as Cathy towed Will through a hole in the clouds and continued upwards. We quickly lost sight of them as they continued above the cloud…
01 Nov 2010
Aerotow Conversion With Flylight
My alarm sounded at 5.30 am, I was suffering from sleep deprivation, a result of a long weekend doing the BHPA club coach course and the commuting and early starts that had accompanied it. Outside, dew coated my glider bag that rested on my car roof and to the east, the first hints of the approaching dawn broke the darkness of night...
25 Oct 2010
My alarm sounded at 5.30 am, I was suffering from sleep deprivation, a result of a long weekend doing the BHPA club coach course and the commuting and early starts that had accompanied it. Outside, dew coated my glider bag that rested on my car roof and to the east, the first hints of the approaching dawn broke the darkness of night...
25 Oct 2010
Not a Good Day to Fly
At a height of 40 feet I was seriously running out of room, then, just as I was about to run out of field, something aggressively lifted the nose skyward. I kacked myself as my glider had never done such an involuntarily manoeuvre and I was close to the ground...
26 Sep 2010
At a height of 40 feet I was seriously running out of room, then, just as I was about to run out of field, something aggressively lifted the nose skyward. I kacked myself as my glider had never done such an involuntarily manoeuvre and I was close to the ground...
26 Sep 2010
An Epic Day With a Not So Epic Landing!
I pulled on speed and set up for a landing, then at 10-15 feet above the ground, I hit rotor and dropped hard on the deck for a crash landing…
25 Sep 2010
I pulled on speed and set up for a landing, then at 10-15 feet above the ground, I hit rotor and dropped hard on the deck for a crash landing…
25 Sep 2010
Not Quite the Epic Expected
As I launched I had to run like Forest Gump before I was lifted off the ground…
18 Sep 2010
As I launched I had to run like Forest Gump before I was lifted off the ground…
18 Sep 2010
Between the Rain - It's Wales of Course
I checked my vario/altimeter to judge if I had height for a top landing but I had forgot to zero it at take-off! It read an altitude of 1,200 feet, I was nowhere near that high so had to rely on my own judgment…
04 Sep 2010
I checked my vario/altimeter to judge if I had height for a top landing but I had forgot to zero it at take-off! It read an altitude of 1,200 feet, I was nowhere near that high so had to rely on my own judgment…
04 Sep 2010
A Perfect End to the Day
As I crossed the large mound of earth that borders the western end of the paddock, I turned back into wind, moved onto the uprights and for a brief moment thought I was coming down right there as the glider hung stationary above the ground…
16 Aug 2010
As I crossed the large mound of earth that borders the western end of the paddock, I turned back into wind, moved onto the uprights and for a brief moment thought I was coming down right there as the glider hung stationary above the ground…
16 Aug 2010
Overcast at Mendlesham
With such benign air, I flew the glider fast and embarked on several tight turns. My head began to spin when the scenery around me spiralled and I felt the g’s pushing my chest into my harness! I quickly decided I’d had enough of that
01 Aug 2010
With such benign air, I flew the glider fast and embarked on several tight turns. My head began to spin when the scenery around me spiralled and I felt the g’s pushing my chest into my harness! I quickly decided I’d had enough of that
01 Aug 2010
Devil's Dyke / Ditchling Beacon Loop
Daniel and I ride from the Devil's Dyke to Ditchling Beacon and back.
31 Jul 2010
Daniel and I ride from the Devil's Dyke to Ditchling Beacon and back.
31 Jul 2010
Exams
The pilot exam itself was much harder and of a format that I had not expected but I worked through it and finished it in just over an hour. I then re-read the entire paper and changed some of my answers…
24 Jul 2010
The pilot exam itself was much harder and of a format that I had not expected but I worked through it and finished it in just over an hour. I then re-read the entire paper and changed some of my answers…
24 Jul 2010
Summer Competition
I screamed at everyone to grab a glider but realised after seeing the confused looks on people’s faces, that I had been the only one to have seen the pending chaos! When gliders began independently flying themselves, people realised the gravity of the situation...
03 Jul 2010
I screamed at everyone to grab a glider but realised after seeing the confused looks on people’s faces, that I had been the only one to have seen the pending chaos! When gliders began independently flying themselves, people realised the gravity of the situation...
03 Jul 2010
Suffolk Thermals
When everything went quite I knew something wasn’t right and looked down expected to see the weak link had failed. It hadn’t, the bridle and line were still there and as the ground was rushed towards me, I instinctively flared…
26 Jun 2010
When everything went quite I knew something wasn’t right and looked down expected to see the weak link had failed. It hadn’t, the bridle and line were still there and as the ground was rushed towards me, I instinctively flared…
26 Jun 2010
Hot and Humid in Suffolk
As I looked at the sky as I drove to Suffolk I could see an inversion was established and with the high-level cloud, thermal activity would be minimal. It had been over a month since I last visited the tow field and despite the not so inspiring sky, I was keen to get on the winch and in the air again...
05 Jun 2010
As I looked at the sky as I drove to Suffolk I could see an inversion was established and with the high-level cloud, thermal activity would be minimal. It had been over a month since I last visited the tow field and despite the not so inspiring sky, I was keen to get on the winch and in the air again...
05 Jun 2010
Rough Air at the Devil's Dyke
The forecast for the Devil's Dyke hinted the wind would veer more to a north easterly and drop later in the day. When I arrived, the wind was pretty strong, blowing a good 17 mph from the north [possibly with a hint of east in it]. I wasn't totally inspired to rig my glider and John and I wondered if Bo Peep might have been the better option...
31 May 2010
The forecast for the Devil's Dyke hinted the wind would veer more to a north easterly and drop later in the day. When I arrived, the wind was pretty strong, blowing a good 17 mph from the north [possibly with a hint of east in it]. I wasn't totally inspired to rig my glider and John and I wondered if Bo Peep might have been the better option...
31 May 2010
Soaring the Long Mynd
My personal mission today was to complete two successful top landings - I needed this to complete my BHPA Pilot tasks.
15 May 2010
My personal mission today was to complete two successful top landings - I needed this to complete my BHPA Pilot tasks.
15 May 2010
Boot Camp Day Two
As I launched, I knew it was going to be the highest of the day. I didn't kite out, but I did release at over 1,100 feet…
18 Apr 2010
As I launched, I knew it was going to be the highest of the day. I didn't kite out, but I did release at over 1,100 feet…
18 Apr 2010
Boot Camp Day One
The helmet queue was now quite substantial and more than an hour passed before my next tow…
17 Apr 2010
The helmet queue was now quite substantial and more than an hour passed before my next tow…
17 Apr 2010
Hard Work Rewarded at the Devil's Dyke
First attempt I was again way too high, my second attempt, too high, my third attempt, too high, my forth, too high! It was getting monotonous, so I turned back after my last attempt, headed for the larger landing field behind the Paddock...
14 Mar 2010
First attempt I was again way too high, my second attempt, too high, my third attempt, too high, my forth, too high! It was getting monotonous, so I turned back after my last attempt, headed for the larger landing field behind the Paddock...
14 Mar 2010
Blue Skies at Mendlesham
Eventually the winch was coaxed to life but the motorbike was ditched and Keith's car employed for the pulling out of the winch cables...
07 Mar 2010
Eventually the winch was coaxed to life but the motorbike was ditched and Keith's car employed for the pulling out of the winch cables...
07 Mar 2010
Holmbury Hill and Leith Hill with Friends
The Trend team visit one of Dan's old haunts, the Surrey Hills.
20 Feb 2010
The Trend team visit one of Dan's old haunts, the Surrey Hills.
20 Feb 2010
Back to the Surrey Hills
Finally after too many years away from Leith Hill and Holmbury Hill I've convinced some work colleagues to join me on one of my favourite mountain bike routes in the South East. The weather forecasts leading up to today had not been particularly favourable, but a hard frost overnight and clear skies in the morning looked promising.
20 Feb 2010
Finally after too many years away from Leith Hill and Holmbury Hill I've convinced some work colleagues to join me on one of my favourite mountain bike routes in the South East. The weather forecasts leading up to today had not been particularly favourable, but a hard frost overnight and clear skies in the morning looked promising.
20 Feb 2010
Mud and Flying at Bo Peep
Later, the wind began to drop and the tell tail signs of paraglider canopies being laid out on the ground below confirmed this…
06 Feb 2010
Later, the wind began to drop and the tell tail signs of paraglider canopies being laid out on the ground below confirmed this…
06 Feb 2010
Another Dyke Day
I heard a yell from the sky. The only hang glider airborne and a paraglider had what I can simply describe as the closest mid-air I've seen to date…
30 Jan 2010
I heard a yell from the sky. The only hang glider airborne and a paraglider had what I can simply describe as the closest mid-air I've seen to date…
30 Jan 2010
Typical Day at the Dyke
As the treetops grew ever closer, I conceded to the inevitable and set-up for a bottom landing…
17 Oct 2009
As the treetops grew ever closer, I conceded to the inevitable and set-up for a bottom landing…
17 Oct 2009
Barbed Wire Isn't Good For Gliders!
Finally I was confident enough to cross the Pylons and after some rough air, arrived at Truleigh Hill for the first time…
16 Oct 2009
Finally I was confident enough to cross the Pylons and after some rough air, arrived at Truleigh Hill for the first time…
16 Oct 2009
Flying the Flatlands
Published in SkyWings October 2009 - This article describes my first year flying with the Suffolk Coastal Floaters Hang Gliding Club. It was initially published in the Southern Hang Gliding Club's Windsock magazine, but after members of the Suffolk Club learned of it I was encouraged to submit it to the BHPA's SkyWings magazine. In October 2009 it was published.
01 Oct 2009
Published in SkyWings October 2009 - This article describes my first year flying with the Suffolk Coastal Floaters Hang Gliding Club. It was initially published in the Southern Hang Gliding Club's Windsock magazine, but after members of the Suffolk Club learned of it I was encouraged to submit it to the BHPA's SkyWings magazine. In October 2009 it was published.
01 Oct 2009
Light Towing!
Lots of people had signed up as it looked to be an interesting day, possibly one of the last good days of the year
27 Sep 2009
Lots of people had signed up as it looked to be an interesting day, possibly one of the last good days of the year
27 Sep 2009
Simply Not Nice at All!
What more can I say; this was one of those days that I really shouldn't have flown. The conditions were not nice at all…
13 Sep 2009
What more can I say; this was one of those days that I really shouldn't have flown. The conditions were not nice at all…
13 Sep 2009
Suffolk Competition Day 2
A collection of photographs from Day 2 of the Suffolk Coastal Floaters Hang Gliding competition at Mendlesham, Suffolk.
06 Sep 2009
A collection of photographs from Day 2 of the Suffolk Coastal Floaters Hang Gliding competition at Mendlesham, Suffolk.
06 Sep 2009
Suffolk Competition Day 1
It was a new site for the first day of the two day competition and not surprisingly, the weather was not playing fair…
05 Sep 2009
It was a new site for the first day of the two day competition and not surprisingly, the weather was not playing fair…
05 Sep 2009
Woolacombe
Equipped with my new Sting 3 hang glider and having only winch launched it to date, I was breaking all the rules about only changing one variable at a time…
29 Aug 2009
Equipped with my new Sting 3 hang glider and having only winch launched it to date, I was breaking all the rules about only changing one variable at a time…
29 Aug 2009
A New Glider!
After I had rigged my glider and completed a very thorough and paranoid checking of everything, I was ready to go…
22 Aug 2009
After I had rigged my glider and completed a very thorough and paranoid checking of everything, I was ready to go…
22 Aug 2009
Simply Amazing!
The wind dropped and a shadow enveloped the runway, I lifted my glider, checked the windsock and instructed "All Out"…
25 Jul 2009
The wind dropped and a shadow enveloped the runway, I lifted my glider, checked the windsock and instructed "All Out"…
25 Jul 2009
Unpaid Leave!
North-westerly and showers; it wasn’t the most promising of weather forecasts! I had another unpaid day off due to the austerity measures Honeywell were taking and after I had consulted Wendy [the Devil's Dyke weather station] I packed my gear and headed to the Dyke...
08 Jul 2009
North-westerly and showers; it wasn’t the most promising of weather forecasts! I had another unpaid day off due to the austerity measures Honeywell were taking and after I had consulted Wendy [the Devil's Dyke weather station] I packed my gear and headed to the Dyke...
08 Jul 2009
Anyone Want to Fly a Target?
It was a little too much for me and my glider began to dance all over the sky. I wasn't enjoying it and when it came to the first release…
04 Jul 2009
It was a little too much for me and my glider began to dance all over the sky. I wasn't enjoying it and when it came to the first release…
04 Jul 2009
7 Hours for 30 Seconds!
With the assistance of other pilots I launched and flew down the slope skimming some foliage with my left wing (not that I noticed).
25 Jun 2009
With the assistance of other pilots I launched and flew down the slope skimming some foliage with my left wing (not that I noticed).
25 Jun 2009
Boot Camp Day Two
The previous night I and a few others had set-up camp on the runway at Mendlesham. I didn't get the best night's sleep, but at least I didn't have the 120 drive!
10 May 2009
The previous night I and a few others had set-up camp on the runway at Mendlesham. I didn't get the best night's sleep, but at least I didn't have the 120 drive!
10 May 2009
Boot Camp Day One
This weekend is Boot Camp weekend, the Suffolk Coastal Floaters training weekend, the aim of which is to train new winch operators and club coaches, the life-blood of the club
09 May 2009
This weekend is Boot Camp weekend, the Suffolk Coastal Floaters training weekend, the aim of which is to train new winch operators and club coaches, the life-blood of the club
09 May 2009
Return to Suffolk
The wind was non existent, possibly slightly tailwind? After giving the "All Out!" instruction I was hauled forward but not upwards…
05 Apr 2009
The wind was non existent, possibly slightly tailwind? After giving the "All Out!" instruction I was hauled forward but not upwards…
05 Apr 2009
First Tow in Over 2 Years!
Finally, 2 years after my tow training at Lejair I'm able to return to a tow field. The venue is Mendlesham Airfield, the Suffolk Costal Floaters primary tow site…
15 Mar 2009
Finally, 2 years after my tow training at Lejair I'm able to return to a tow field. The venue is Mendlesham Airfield, the Suffolk Costal Floaters primary tow site…
15 Mar 2009
A Snow Covered Delight
As the South Downs came into view they looked glorious with a dusting of snow. For a moment I wondered if I could get all the way up to the Devil's Dyke, but the road was clear.
07 Feb 2009
As the South Downs came into view they looked glorious with a dusting of snow. For a moment I wondered if I could get all the way up to the Devil's Dyke, but the road was clear.
07 Feb 2009
Not So Nice at the Devil's Dyke
The weather forecast wasn't particularly favourable, but I had the day off work, so I loaded the car and headed to the Devil's Dyke…
09 Dec 2008
The weather forecast wasn't particularly favourable, but I had the day off work, so I loaded the car and headed to the Devil's Dyke…
09 Dec 2008
An Eventful Day at the Devil's Dyke
It's a weekend and the forecast is north westerly at 12-15 mph; the Devil's Dyke is going to be chaos! What the hell, I'll go and see what's happening…
06 Dec 2008
It's a weekend and the forecast is north westerly at 12-15 mph; the Devil's Dyke is going to be chaos! What the hell, I'll go and see what's happening…
06 Dec 2008
A Busy Day at the Devil's Dyke
All was going well until a low airtime paraglider pilot turned directly in front of me forcing me to dive and turn out of the way
12 Nov 2008
All was going well until a low airtime paraglider pilot turned directly in front of me forcing me to dive and turn out of the way
12 Nov 2008
A Rough Day at the Devil's Dyke with a new Personal Best!
After 20 minutes of being wind dummy I was joined by 3 and shortly later a 4th pilot…
16 Oct 2008
After 20 minutes of being wind dummy I was joined by 3 and shortly later a 4th pilot…
16 Oct 2008
An Odd Flying Day
Okay, the weather gods have been kind to me. I'd booked 3 days off work, the previous Thursday and Friday and today! Thursday I flew and today it looked like I'd fly again…
29 Sep 2008
Okay, the weather gods have been kind to me. I'd booked 3 days off work, the previous Thursday and Friday and today! Thursday I flew and today it looked like I'd fly again…
29 Sep 2008
Flying with Models
Finally, after the worst summer that I can recall, a potential soaring day and I had the day booked off work!
25 Sep 2008
Finally, after the worst summer that I can recall, a potential soaring day and I had the day booked off work!
25 Sep 2008
Aerotowing and AirBorne's New Sting 3
It was my first trip to Swanborough Airfield East Sussex, and to my surprise Johnny Carr turns up with Ariborne's new Sting 3 154…
13 Sep 2008
It was my first trip to Swanborough Airfield East Sussex, and to my surprise Johnny Carr turns up with Ariborne's new Sting 3 154…
13 Sep 2008
A Quick Top to Bottom
Had I chosen a good day to take a half day off work? Well arriving early at the Devil's Dyke and seeing a few paragliders scratching around in the available lift was a good sign that the wind was on...
16 Jul 2008
Had I chosen a good day to take a half day off work? Well arriving early at the Devil's Dyke and seeing a few paragliders scratching around in the available lift was a good sign that the wind was on...
16 Jul 2008
A Short Evening Sled Ride
Sat in my office I'd been monitoring the weather conditions carefully and had come to the conclusion that the Devil's Dyke would not sea breeze in the evening. There may be a chance to get a flight in after work before the forecast rain moved in.
11 Jun 2008
Sat in my office I'd been monitoring the weather conditions carefully and had come to the conclusion that the Devil's Dyke would not sea breeze in the evening. There may be a chance to get a flight in after work before the forecast rain moved in.
11 Jun 2008
Hang Gliding at Cordon Hill
Faced with the prospect of travelling after work on the Friday evening, I opted to get up at 5am on Saturday and travel then. The destination was a small village by the name of Lydbury North in Shropshire…
31 May 2008
Faced with the prospect of travelling after work on the Friday evening, I opted to get up at 5am on Saturday and travel then. The destination was a small village by the name of Lydbury North in Shropshire…
31 May 2008
Devil's Dyke
It had felt likes ages since I last flew. The British summer had been more like a monsoon and with that, no flying opportunities…
29 Jul 2007
It had felt likes ages since I last flew. The British summer had been more like a monsoon and with that, no flying opportunities…
29 Jul 2007
The Long Mynd
Awaking in my tent at Fforest Field campsite on Sunday morning revealed that yesterday's weather front had now passed…
20 May 2007
Awaking in my tent at Fforest Field campsite on Sunday morning revealed that yesterday's weather front had now passed…
20 May 2007
Bo Peep
I was half expecting it to be too strong for my humble Target Sky Floater, but I'd do the journey and hope for the best…
28 Apr 2007
I was half expecting it to be too strong for my humble Target Sky Floater, but I'd do the journey and hope for the best…
28 Apr 2007
Devil's Dyke
Sunday morning and I'm driving down the A23 with my wife and glider, headed south towards the Devil's Dyke it doesn't look too good, there's an inversion and the air is grey and motionless.
12 Nov 2006
Sunday morning and I'm driving down the A23 with my wife and glider, headed south towards the Devil's Dyke it doesn't look too good, there's an inversion and the air is grey and motionless.
12 Nov 2006
Tow Endorsement at Lejair
My first tow was a gentle pull across the field allowing me to feel what it was all about. I left the ground momentarily, floating no more than 1-2 feet, before slowly returning to the ground…
21 Aug 2006
My first tow was a gentle pull across the field allowing me to feel what it was all about. I left the ground momentarily, floating no more than 1-2 feet, before slowly returning to the ground…
21 Aug 2006
Devil's Dyke
On arrival all of the paragliders were grounded and the wind was perfect. I whipped the glider off the car, carried it to the paddock and rigged it…
29 Apr 2006
On arrival all of the paragliders were grounded and the wind was perfect. I whipped the glider off the car, carried it to the paddock and rigged it…
29 Apr 2006
Devil's Dyke
A new year and lots of motivation to get some hours up; I haven't clocked up nearly as much as I should have for the number of years that I've been flying…
04 Feb 2006
A new year and lots of motivation to get some hours up; I haven't clocked up nearly as much as I should have for the number of years that I've been flying…
04 Feb 2006
Bo Peep
This was to be my first flight in a very long-time, in fact it was the first for 2005…
26 Jun 2005
This was to be my first flight in a very long-time, in fact it was the first for 2005…
26 Jun 2005
Ben Nevis
An account of our Ben Nevis Ascent, Britain's highest mountain with Gideon Reade and Clare Thurgar.
30 Mar 2005
An account of our Ben Nevis Ascent, Britain's highest mountain with Gideon Reade and Clare Thurgar.
30 Mar 2005
Bo Peep
I arrived at Bo Peep but the wind wasn't as strong as I'd expected so staying up looked like a challenge…
08 Oct 2004
I arrived at Bo Peep but the wind wasn't as strong as I'd expected so staying up looked like a challenge…
08 Oct 2004
A Trip to the Bottom
With the wind blowing from a westerly direction the lift was concentrated on the pub hill only. After rigging and checking over my Target hang glider, I made my way to launch…
13 Jun 2004
With the wind blowing from a westerly direction the lift was concentrated on the pub hill only. After rigging and checking over my Target hang glider, I made my way to launch…
13 Jun 2004
Gusty!
I have to admit, it wasn’t particularly great fun as I was jostled and bounced around the sky…
22 Dec 2001
I have to admit, it wasn’t particularly great fun as I was jostled and bounced around the sky…
22 Dec 2001
Some Proper Soaring
After about 40 minutes I decided to try another top landing but for some reason, the Paddock looked uncomfortably small…
06 Sep 2001
After about 40 minutes I decided to try another top landing but for some reason, the Paddock looked uncomfortably small…
06 Sep 2001
Scraped In for a Bottom Landing
I knew it wasn’t going to be a soaring day, but rigged anyway. After I launched, I crossed the bowl and set-off towards the pylons…
04 Sep 2001
I knew it wasn’t going to be a soaring day, but rigged anyway. After I launched, I crossed the bowl and set-off towards the pylons…
04 Sep 2001
A Non-Event
I arrived at 3pm and learnt my first lesson about the sea breeze; when makes it way inland it can dramatically alter the wind direction…
21 Jun 2001
I arrived at 3pm and learnt my first lesson about the sea breeze; when makes it way inland it can dramatically alter the wind direction…
21 Jun 2001
Top Landing!
With a strong wind blowing from north of North West, I was confident that I would soar and avoid another trip to the bottom landing field…
17 Jun 2001
With a strong wind blowing from north of North West, I was confident that I would soar and avoid another trip to the bottom landing field…
17 Jun 2001
Bottom Landings
My luck with the wind and weather wasn't in my favour. By the time I had rigged my Calyspo and checked it over the sky was looking grey and after making my way to the launch area, the wind had dropped and it was now obvious that this would be a sled ride...
02 Jun 2001
My luck with the wind and weather wasn't in my favour. By the time I had rigged my Calyspo and checked it over the sky was looking grey and after making my way to the launch area, the wind had dropped and it was now obvious that this would be a sled ride...
02 Jun 2001
Sierra Nevada - Day Five
As the rest of us were preparing for launch and queuing in the launch area just like us Brits do, we were somewhat surprised to hear John's apologetic airborne, "Oops, cheeky take-off!", as he jumped the launch order by launching from the car park, swooping over the rest of us and onward into the clear sky.
06 Apr 2001
As the rest of us were preparing for launch and queuing in the launch area just like us Brits do, we were somewhat surprised to hear John's apologetic airborne, "Oops, cheeky take-off!", as he jumped the launch order by launching from the car park, swooping over the rest of us and onward into the clear sky.
06 Apr 2001
Sierra Nevada - Day Four
Thursday saw us return to Loja; however conditions were not as good as Wednesday's as maintaining height was a bit more of a struggle. With this in mind, and our confidence in flying greatly increased, we began to play…
05 Apr 2001
Thursday saw us return to Loja; however conditions were not as good as Wednesday's as maintaining height was a bit more of a struggle. With this in mind, and our confidence in flying greatly increased, we began to play…
05 Apr 2001
Sierra Nevada - Day Three
After launching I executed a few turns and a couple of random 360's before my vario squealed one of it's happy, I'm going up sounds…
04 Apr 2001
After launching I executed a few turns and a couple of random 360's before my vario squealed one of it's happy, I'm going up sounds…
04 Apr 2001
Sierra Nevada - Day Two
My first flight concluded with an interesting landing. During my final approach I flew over the sewage works that processed what ever came out of Padul. This happened to be a good thermic source (don't ask!), as it generated a 6 up sending me skyward…
03 Apr 2001
My first flight concluded with an interesting landing. During my final approach I flew over the sewage works that processed what ever came out of Padul. This happened to be a good thermic source (don't ask!), as it generated a 6 up sending me skyward…
03 Apr 2001
Sierra Nevada - Day One
The night arrival night had hid the surrounding countryside from us, so when Monday morning arrived, we were surprised to find ourselves in a beautiful Spanish town, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains…
02 Apr 2001
The night arrival night had hid the surrounding countryside from us, so when Monday morning arrived, we were surprised to find ourselves in a beautiful Spanish town, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains…
02 Apr 2001
Sierra Nevada 2001
April 2001, Foot and Mouth disease had closed the English countryside, ending any possibilities of Hang Gliding pretty much anywhere in the UK. John Barratt from Sussex Hang Gliding and Paragliding (now South Downs Hang Gliding) must have predicted this outbreak, as he'd timed his hang gliding trip to the Spanish Sierra Nevada Mountain range perfectly...
02 Apr 2001
April 2001, Foot and Mouth disease had closed the English countryside, ending any possibilities of Hang Gliding pretty much anywhere in the UK. John Barratt from Sussex Hang Gliding and Paragliding (now South Downs Hang Gliding) must have predicted this outbreak, as he'd timed his hang gliding trip to the Spanish Sierra Nevada Mountain range perfectly...
02 Apr 2001
Another Quick Flight
Frustratingly, another top to bottom at the Devil’s Dyke when others managed to stay up and top land…
15 Dec 2000
Frustratingly, another top to bottom at the Devil’s Dyke when others managed to stay up and top land…
15 Dec 2000
A Quick Top to Bottom
Having had arrived late and wanting to get a quick flight in before it was too dark, I rigged my glider and did a quick top-to-bottom…
07 Oct 2000
Having had arrived late and wanting to get a quick flight in before it was too dark, I rigged my glider and did a quick top-to-bottom…
07 Oct 2000
Top to Bottoms
Almost 3 months had passed since my last flight, so I was keen to get out and give it a go…
12 Mar 2000
Almost 3 months had passed since my last flight, so I was keen to get out and give it a go…
12 Mar 2000
First Time on Top!
My first top landing at the Devil's Dyke. Bit low, as I found a gap between the fort at the trees, but I was down for the first time in the Paddock!
29 Dec 1999
My first top landing at the Devil's Dyke. Bit low, as I found a gap between the fort at the trees, but I was down for the first time in the Paddock!
29 Dec 1999
A Snow Covered Devil's Dyke
After almost freezing to death and warming up with a hot drink from the Devil's Dyke pub, I emerge to find my glider almost burriend in an ice drift…
19 Dec 1999
After almost freezing to death and warming up with a hot drink from the Devil's Dyke pub, I emerge to find my glider almost burriend in an ice drift…
19 Dec 1999
Frustrations!
With my confidence dwindling but still eager to fly, I selected a day that probably wasn't ideal for someone with my low hours and experience. I arrived at the Devil's Dyke and the wind was strong and also gusty at times. Having booked time off work to fly I was motivated to get into the air, so ignoring my gut feel for what I perceived as border-line conditions, I rigged my Calypso, checked it over then launched...
09 Nov 1999
With my confidence dwindling but still eager to fly, I selected a day that probably wasn't ideal for someone with my low hours and experience. I arrived at the Devil's Dyke and the wind was strong and also gusty at times. Having booked time off work to fly I was motivated to get into the air, so ignoring my gut feel for what I perceived as border-line conditions, I rigged my Calypso, checked it over then launched...
09 Nov 1999
The Rifle Range
Having grown up in the West Country I was keen to fly some of the local sites to my origins. In anticipation I had joined the Avon Hang Gliding Club…
11 Sep 1999
Having grown up in the West Country I was keen to fly some of the local sites to my origins. In anticipation I had joined the Avon Hang Gliding Club…
11 Sep 1999
Swanborough with South Downs Hang Gliding
I was still seeking my flying confidence after I had completed my CP training. John Barratt from South Downs Hang Gliding once again invited me out to join in with the school…
21 Aug 1999
I was still seeking my flying confidence after I had completed my CP training. John Barratt from South Downs Hang Gliding once again invited me out to join in with the school…
21 Aug 1999
Calypso to the Skies
Months had passed since I had fitted a new upright and despite some trips to the hills since; I had not taken to the air. John Barratt had probably noticed not seeing me around and very kindly called me to say that they'd be flying today and I was welcome to join the school at Bo Peep...
12 Jul 1999
Months had passed since I had fitted a new upright and despite some trips to the hills since; I had not taken to the air. John Barratt had probably noticed not seeing me around and very kindly called me to say that they'd be flying today and I was welcome to join the school at Bo Peep...
12 Jul 1999
My First Mountain Flight
John briefed us on the flight path we'd take. The bottom landing was actually out of sight and was around to the left of launch. Our flight plans had been dictated to us; good strong launch, gentle turn to the left until you see the bottom landing, then a gentle turn to the right, back into wind, and set-up for a landing...
19 Mar 1999
John briefed us on the flight path we'd take. The bottom landing was actually out of sight and was around to the left of launch. Our flight plans had been dictated to us; good strong launch, gentle turn to the left until you see the bottom landing, then a gentle turn to the right, back into wind, and set-up for a landing...
19 Mar 1999
First Soaring Flights
After a break to recoup my finances I had discovered John Barratt from West Sussex Hang Gliding and Paragliding. I signed up to complete my CP, but had to go back to basics due to my break…
19 Mar 1999
After a break to recoup my finances I had discovered John Barratt from West Sussex Hang Gliding and Paragliding. I signed up to complete my CP, but had to go back to basics due to my break…
19 Mar 1999
