Soaring High: Highlights from a Record-Breaking Week on Volandoo

Welcome to Volandoo, the premier global platform where paragliding and hang gliding pilots converge to track, log, and share their most exhilarating flights. This week, an outstanding 423 flights were recorded, showcasing bold adventures across diverse terrains and soaring styles worldwide. From free distance challenges to intense competition tasks, our community of pilots continues to push the boundaries of cross-country (XC) flying. Below, we spotlight six of the most remarkable flights that capture the skill, endurance, and spirit driving this passionate global network.

L.j. Omara - Mastering the Skies at Wharton Regional Airport

L.j. Omara achieved an extraordinary 168.6 km Free Distance Around 3 TPs at Wharton Regional Airport, demonstrating exceptional route planning and endurance over a 4-hour 22-minute flight. Flying the agile Moyes Gecko 155 Pro C, L.j. expertly worked 35 thermals, maintaining consistent lift to navigate the challenging cross-country terrain. This flight not only sets a high bar for distance this week but also inspires pilots focused on mastering advanced tactical soaring. Experience L.j.'s precision and persistence in this landmark journey.

Arnstein Ressem – Endurance and Strategy at Thorenc - Col De Bleyne Competition

Competition pilot Arnstein Ressem delivered a gritty performance in the mountainous terrain of Thorenc - Col De Bleyne with a 109.2 km flight during a demanding 5-hour 23-minute contest task. Flying the nimble Nivuk Peak 6, Arnstein skillfully maneuvered through 28 thermals and tackled four waypoints amidst tough conditions, highlighting both endurance and tactical finesse despite narrowly missing the goal. This flight underscores the intensity and tactical depth of our competition scene.

Robin Hamilton – Focused XC Precision at Wharton Regional Airport

Robin Hamilton demonstrated remarkable cross-country skill with a 107.9 km Free Distance Around 3 TPs flight at Wharton Regional Airport, achieving this in a swift 3 hours 32 minutes aboard the high-performance Aeros Combat C 13.5. With 23 thermals counted, Robin made efficient use of lift sources, combining speed with tactical decision-making. This well-executed flight exemplifies how precision and experience come together to maximize XC performance in varied flying conditions.

Andrew Austin – Tactical Mastery Over Algodonales De Sur

In a challenging 5-hour 27-minute flight, Andrew Austin carved out a 101.9 km Free Distance Around 3 TPs over the renowned soaring site of Algodonales De Sur. Flying the modern Ozone Zeno 2, Andrew navigated 33 thermals, demonstrating exceptional route strategy in a landscape famous for its dynamic and technical airflows. This flight highlights the blend of endurance and finesse required to thrive in Southern Spain’s world-class XC environment.

Dylan Mansley – Consistent XC Excellence at Algodonales De Sur

Matching Andrew’s impressive milestone, Dylan Mansley completed a 101.7 km Free Distance Around 3 TPs flight at Algodonales De Sur in 4 hours 30 minutes, flying the versatile Ozone Enzo 3. Logging 32 thermals, Dylan’s steady climb and decision-making reaffirm the site’s reputation as a hotspot for ambitious XC pilots. This flight contributes to the growing legacy of pilots mastering this soaring jewel and enriches our community’s XC knowledge base.

Maria Barragan – Speed and Skill at Wharton Regional Airport

Maria Barragan impressed with a brisk 101.2 km Free Distance Around 3 TPs soaring in just 2 hours 27 minutes on a Wills Wing Sport 2 hang glider. Capturing 13 thermals, Maria’s flight highlights strategic thermal selection and rapid navigation within the demanding Wharton airspace. This performance stands out for its efficiency and provides an inspiring example for pilots aiming to combine speed with tactical savvy.

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This week’s top flights encapsulate the extraordinary variety and expertise thriving on Volandoo. Whether tackling competitive tasks, pushing personal distance records, or exploring new sites, our flying community continues to elevate the sport of paragliding and hang gliding worldwide. Ready to join in or elevate your own XC journey? Explore real-time tracks, log your flights, and connect with fellow pilots on Volandoo—the ultimate destination for free flight enthusiasts.