This tip is from Touching Cloudbase: The Complete Guide to Paragliding by Ian Currer
Preparation is key. Photo: Marcus King
Many pilots enjoy flying competitively and there is a range of events, from club level up to World Championships, that are hotly contested.
Good equipment is vital: not only a glider but a GPS, other instruments and a reserve.
First, know the rules!
Competitions have been won (and lost) because only a few pilots realised that the rules biased points in favour of speed over distance or a target landing over speed etc.
Do not rush – inexperienced competition pilots often fly too early. You must know the weather forecast to decide whether it will improve or not.
You must also keep tabs on how you are doing in the competition – so you know who you should ‘target’ each task.
Should you play safe? Or should you go for it if you have nothing to lose?
Either way, don’t forget you are doing it for fun!
Touching Cloudbase is available through the XCshop.com
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