The weather this season has already seen some pilots achieve their personal best in flying distance, height and speed with pilots flying their 300km and 500km flights which allows them to claim silver and gold badges.
This year has seen a return of Japanese university student pilots, who come to Tocumwal to further enhance their soaring experiences.
Our skies enable them to fly long distances, which is very difficult to achieve in Japan.
Tocumwal has a rich history that continues to attract glider pilots who want to do distance and cross-country flying.
Pilots have experienced some exceptional conditions since before Christmas, with several flights of over 1000km flown, some at Australian record speeds.
Some of these flights last over nine hours.
A flight last week covering 1142km, at an average speed of 133km/h, was accomplished.
Remarkable for an aircraft without an engine and relying on solar power alone to create thermals.
Tocumwal Soaring Centre’s experienced, friendly staff are always willing to share their experiences and welcome new pilots to this wonderful sport with training courses and advanced flying coaching for all pilots.
They have pilots who have represented Australia during world gliding championships, and the current Australian 18m champion, on hand to pass on some great tips on soaring.
