Preparation
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August 10, 2023
The best pilots are the ones who are able to keep a clear head under pressure, these are usually the ones who have done their homework. Being able to ‘stay cool’ and ‘think clearly’ is the result of rational, logical planning done before the event or weekends soaring. As I’m sure you’ve heard before, Prior Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. There are two types
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April 28, 2022
In the cross-country mentor programs that I do, a very frequent question or topic that comes up is, “what things do you keep in the glider for contests or cross country flying?” Aside from the obvious items such as food, fluids for drinking, urine elimination items, and an oxygen system (if needed where you fly), there are many things in my glider that I have found to be helpful
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March 10, 2022
It’s all in the head, how many times have we heard that before? If we ask the top pilots or anyone seriously in any sport, often that’s the response, that they think that winning almost exclusively comes from the head. This can be misinterpreted though, it’s not intellect that I’m talking about, so if you’re like me and not that smart, don’t throw in the towel
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January 27, 2022
We all love a bit of retail therapy, especially when it comes to buying stuff for our gliding setup - it’s easy to justify, that’s what I tell myself anyway! If you’re like me, Wings and Wheels is my go-to for quality soaring supplies, but myself being so far away from the States, I often look to buy many little extras after my main purpose purchase (like my recent Softie parachute)
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August 12, 2021
When you learn to fly, you are required to make a note of your flying hours in a logbook alongside a description of some sort, in order to have a record of your experience. This is for both you and the next instructor to see where you’re at. Invariably
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April 01, 2021
Editors Note: We are soaring ambassadors whenever taking passengers up for a ride. Hugh offers a comprehensive approach to glider passenger briefings from ground operations, to the use of parachutes when available, and the actual flight (parachutes were not an option when the photo was taken). Effective briefings can reduce passenger stress and help foster our sport of soaring.
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March 11, 2021
Editors Note: The gliding season has begun. Many have plans to visit another airport on vacation or fly a contest this season. As we leave our home routine there is an increased risk for damage and incidents at an unfamiliar location. Adam has traveled the world flying at many airports. His experiences will help make the best of your trip.
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June 25, 2020
Creating a Training Program
Part 1 – Goal Setting
You’re preparing for a competition, it doesn’t really matter if it’s your first, a regional, the nationals or a world gliding championships. The plan may cover just one season or many seasons over many sites and continents. Regardless, it’s done in 3 stages, Planning, Practice and Implementation – lets
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May 14, 2020
Stretching & Comfort
You’re all cooped up, competition & cross country gliding, in general, involves sitting in the one position for between 3 and 6 hours. I saw many times, my father hoping out of his LS4 barely being able to walk. To get the maximum points or enjoyment out of your soaring, one must be comfortable and prepared. So how is your cockpit, comfort-wise? -
March 28, 2019
Know your database. Spring is here and everyone is getting ready to go flying again. Many people have started coming out from winter hibernation and starting to get current again. Now is a good time to take a drive and look at those airports you are planning on using. Many articles have been about getting your equipment ready and understanding how to use it. What about the information it is displaying,