Powered Paragliding Training
After a great trip to France, it is time to get back to work (if you can call this work!).
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As usual, ground school started at 8am, but everyone arrived punctually for a change. We got the paperwork out of the way and delved straight into the basic theory.
Sylviu tries out the harness, suspended from the climbing gymn roof.
Rob also finds his balance point on the harness, crucial if the machine is to fly safely. The weather forecast had not looked promising for the afternoon and Andre's internet connection was down so we had an extra long lunch break and made tentative plans to meet at the Sodom Road field for around 4pm.
From the highway we could see a giant traction kite, which Andre told me belonged to a continuing student, Ziggy. Out at the field Andre runs through how to untangle lines and set up the wing and training harness.
Having practiced before, Rob quickly show us that he has the skills to fly this weekend.
Rob controlling the wing in moderate wind conditions. Practicing at home really pays off AND saves you money! We had met Rob last year. He had bought a set of gear to practice with and had been given some brief instruction from Andre. He had taken the time to go away and practice his ground handling on his own and it showed. Within a couple of hours Rob was demonstrating some very good control.
Mr P, George and Sylviu were also progressing very well considering they had never even unpacked a glider before today.
George has a go.
Andre lends a guiding hand. A few tips make all the difference to your progression.
Andre Shows the students how it should be done - show off!
Eventually the wind dropped right off and we were able to try some forward launches with some success.
Ziggy, a continuing student with considerable air time, gets a trike flight in the calm evening air.
By now it was getting dark so we packed up and went to Dora's which, under new ownership, is now called EuroPlates, not very catchy I know, but the place looks a whole lot smarter and the beers are better! Ziggy caught up with us after dismantling his machine for nearly an hour. We even got a round of drinks on the house.
Ziggy prefers morning and evening flights in still air. It's a great way to end a day as he puts on a nice show for outr newest batch of student pilots.
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