SAFA Skysailor Magazine

22 SKY SAILOR September | October 2019 I believe I was on the same Bali trip referred to by Julian Bryant in his story. The first coincidence that stood out for me in the article was Julian’s suggestion to call his new wing ‘Victor’, which just happens to be my name! I’m certain that has nothing to do with the reason he chose that name for his wing. However, there is an even bigger coincidence – we both fly identical wings, the AD Volt3! Just like Julian in WA, I too often fly on pretty flat terrain. The Yorke Peninsula of South Australia is definitely not a renowned paragliding destina- tion. It is seldom visited by PG pilots. On the other hand, it is known as one of SA’s most reliable grain producing areas where wheat, barley, canola, peas, beans and lentils are grown. Located about two hours north of Adelaide, the region roughly resembles the boot of Italy in shape. North to south is around a two hour trip and east to west about 45 minutes. Since this is where I have lived for the last 19 years, it made good sense for me to get to know my own backyard. My nearest local launch is within five minutes of home, the furthest sites are still at most only two hours away. Julian also mentioned that after starting hang gliding in the late 80s, he turned to paragliding at the age of 45. It has taken Julian less than five years to achieve his 400 hours. In contrast, I left it until turning 55 before learning to paraglide and it has taken me almost 10 years to accrue 500 hours. Now, having reached 65 years of age, I tend to fly more on my local patch rather than venture off on overseas or interstate flying trips. With over 20 launch sites to choose from, I have a pretty good chance of catching a flight somewhere. This time of year (winter), there are two essential pieces of equipment I carry: whipper snipper and spray pack. As any pilot knows, snagged lines are very frustrating at launch. Particular weeds seem to be the worst offenders in terms of sticking to lines. Winter is a good time to cut them down or attempt to spray them out. Some of my winter excursions are without my wing as I try to reach difficult launch spots to deal with themwith the whipper snipper in order to make it easier in spring and summer. Same Same, But Different After reading Julian Bryant’s excellent article about his flying and reaching 400 hours (congratulations Julian!), I was inspired to contribute my two cents worth about some of the similarities, coincides and differences between our experiences. by Victor Hibovesky Photos: Victor Hibovesky