Another happy customer got to show to the rest of the field what still can be done on his trusty Aspen 2. The Borders British Paragliding Cup/ Scottish Open competition got this year's Uk XC comp scene underway and although only one day was possible, due to the great british weather.
Photo Credit S.Ethrington
His plan was to try to stay high,based on the fact that the route had some long crossings of high remote moorland and to fly conservatively which hopefully would avoid any hot-slog walkout to the nearest road if he tried to rush to much.
"By climbing when able and progressing steadily I got past the worst bit until a long glide across the last valley left me a bit desperate 10km from goal. Some bumpy air and sniffs of lift drifted me on until a good climb from cut forestry got me up in company with an other lucky pilot. Now goal was in site and it was a calculated gamble to leave before my friend and dash for the cylinder. He stayed climbing for two more circuits which was just enough to give me 20 seconds lead and 2nd place in the Cup. An entertaining landing in the middle of a cricket match was improved by several beers from the pavilion. Later pilots had the full hailstone and big lift experience as the day over-developed as predicted, this caused several to ping into airspace at over 5500ft".
"Brilliant views of both East and West coasts will stay with me for a long time and I really recommend the area if you get a chance."
Good to see the Aspen 2 can still do the business.
