HGFA Skysailor Magazine

SKY SAILOR 17 July | August 2019 allows a mapping device to be focused on mapping and tasking functions. In stock and available from [PlanetParagliding .com.au] . Gavin Zahner X-Alps4 – The Success Story Continues Skywalk made history in 2017: Four of the five highest ranked Red Bull X-Alps athletes had relied on the ultra-lightweight high-performance glider. In 2019, skywalk launched a brand-new version. The X-ALPS4 is a complete redesign – developed with the technological know-how of skywalks R&D team and the intense experience of their X-Alps athletes. On the over 1000km route from Salzburg to Monaco, athletes need a glider they can rely on 100% even in the toughest conditions. In addition to performance improvements, Skywalk has made the glider easier to handle when flown near the top of the envelope. They once again chose a 3-line concept, equipped with the lightest materials available and packed with all our expertise in paragliding construction. Compared to its predecessor, the reduced riser layout and the new line set-up simplify launch preparation. In addition, the glider kites better, making launching in demanding terrain even easier. The X-Alps4 impresses with surprising smooth- ness. Performance is more accessible, so you fly it with less stress. The glider provides the necessary feedback via the brakes, while lower brake pressure and longer brake line travel increase pilot comfort. The new design allows for more efficient control via the C-riser and steering through turbulent air at speed via Speed Control handles requires less effort. The technical data with an aspect ratio of 6.99 and 82 cells guarantee a real race feeling. Combined with its stable flight characteristics as well as the low weight, the X-ALPS4 is the first choice for all Hike&Fly competition pilots and uncompromising XC cracks! See [www.skywalk.info ] for more. Daniel Gassner, Skywalk Mac Para Eden 7 The traditional name Eden remains, but the number 7 indicates a significant change. The Eden 7 is a top of the line sports performance category glider with exceptional XC potential. The partially lightweight glider design has been optimised in all aspects. The glide ratio of Eden 7 is significantly targeted at the top of EN-B category. All this is associated with a high level of stability and passive safety throughout the speed range. See [www.macpara.com/en ] for more. Peter, Mac Para The Icarus X South Africa The world’s most exciting air race lived up to its reputation. Over one weekend, the skies above the Golden Gate National Park hosted paramotorists from around the globe who fought it out in the Icarus X series. The X series was created on the back of the popularity of the Icarus Trophy, the world’s longest paramotor race, and features several shorter-format stand-alone race events across the globe. This race saw participants follow a stunning 350km two-day course. Taking off on Friday from Bethlehem Aerodrome, pilots followed a roughly circular route skimming the Lesotho border and flying over the Golden Gate National Park, giving racers unique views of the Maluti Mountains and their wildlife, before finishing at Claren’s Golf Course on Saturday. The event itself was split into two divisions – one for the more experienced pilots, who were racing for glory, and an Adventure Division, for less seasoned racers who wanted to take things at a more ‘leisurely pace’. If ‘exciting’ flying equates to ‘challenging’ flying, then the race certainly lived up to its reputation with just over half of the competitors on the start line managing to finish the race. Difficult head winds caused a few headaches at the start, and thermals, kicked off the mountainous terrain the race flew over, added to the fun towards the end. Mechanical issues, including cut lines and a chopped wing, unfortunately ended the race for some, but of those who made it to the finish line, flying in above a truly breath taking landscape near Clarens, it was South African Nic Petropoulos who crossed the line first to claim the Icarus X Series trophy. Next event in the series is Exmoor, UK, 21 June. Visit [www.theadventurists.com ] for updates. David Ferguson Clockwise from top L: South African winner Nic Petropoulos in the centre, Clocolaan in sigh, and the finish line at Clarens from a pilot’s perspective