Your first training hill lesson will begin on flat ground where you will learn the fundamentals of foot launching and weight shift control. As you master each step we will slowly progress up the hill where you will be rewarded with longer and higher flights. At this point we will continue to refine your launch technique and roll correction while introducing the landing flair. This is the technique used by hang glider pilots to stop our forward momentum and land gracefully on our feet. It doesn't always look so graceful on your first few trys but with a little practice you will soon be landing like a pro.
The training hill is also the ideal environment to learn about launching and landing in cross wind conditions. Not only is this an important lesson that will keep you from developing a turn during your launch run but it also gives the student a practical introduction to the yaw component of flight.
As you become more confident with your take off runs you will start to recognize the conditions that will optimize your launch performance. By observing the wind in the vegitation and streamers and through the balanced feel of the wing you will find that these "launch cycles" are key to deciding when to begin your flight.
I became involved with stationary winch, or scooter towing, as complimentary method to the training hill and to create more training oppertunities for my students. Often the weather will be nice but the wind direction will be wrong for the various hills that are available. With this method the towing direction can be set up directly into the wind. If the wind changes direction we simply adjust the course to accomodate the change. As with hill training the student starts out low and slow and we gradually increase the altitude as a reward for mastering each stage of flight.
After a few lesson days you may find yourself comfortable with increased tow pressures and climbs of 150' or better. At this stage we are able to work on S-turns, 360 degree turns, and lots of practice of the basic landing approaches.
Instructional tandem flights are one of the best methods for learning to hang glide. During an instructional flight we will be side by side talking about each step of the process. Shortly after launch the student will be able to take control of the glider learning to execute precise turns and using their eyes to recognize their glide.
Tandem flights are crucial prior to your first altitude foot launch solo. Tandem flights acclimate the new pilot to the altitude environment and gives them the experience necessary to successfully complete the same flight on their own.
Of course the best thing is the smile a great tandem experience will leave you with. Whether you are commited to becoming a serious pilot or just want to experience the thrill of free flight, your tandem flight will become a special memory for a life time.
Boat towing is a great way to experience hang gliding in the summer months when the water is warm and the air is still. It offers the ability to have multiple altitude flights without having to break down/set up or drive up a mountain. We simply land next to the boat load up the wing and do it again. With over a mile of 1/8" spectra cord on the payout winch flights of over 4000' AGL are possible. At the end of the tow the line is released on a deployed drouge chute and is reeled back into the boat with out ever touching the water. Meanwhile the pilot is free to enjoy the spectacular scenery with a huge unobsturcted landing zone stretched out below.