Allen Weynberg reports from the Bullseye hike-and-fly competition in Australia.
The 2023 SkyOut Hike-and-Fly Bullseye competition saw 46 athletes climb a total of 37,410m during the six-hour event on Saturday 16 September at Lake St Clair near Singleton in New South Wales, Australia.
Now in its second year, the innovative format of the Bullseye combines points for hiking with points for landing on target. The route winds its way up a 430m hill before pilots take off to land by the shores of the lake below. Elite athletes completed as many as five laps while most settled for two or three. Everyone stuck to the same course, which made for a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere. Safety cover and first aid were also easily accessible.
The race started at 10.15am under clear, blue skies and a relentless sun. David Wainwright took the ‘King of the Hill’ prize for reaching the top first – in 35 minutes. Soon the sky was filled with a steady stream of gliders aiming for the bullseye below.
Conditions were brisk but manageable all day and some took advantage of the soarable weather – Luke Dunn clocked a four-hour flight (a Hike-and-stay-up?). Others, meanwhile, were pushing the bar and pulling the ears to hit the target, pack and go again.
Australia has had a turbo-charged start to summer this year. Temperatures exceeding 33ºC made the event hot work. As the day wore on, all competitors were grateful for the free Powerade supplied in ice buckets under a tree near launch. Another Aussie hazard made an appearance when I had to dodge a “Danger Noodle” (snake) that crossed the track and had to be deterred by my mate Phil with a stick.
In all, 87 landings were safely executed on or around the target and competitors were able to refuel at the barbecue in the shade of the prize tent. Trophies were presented as the sun set over the lake at the end of a hugely enjoyable and incident-free day.
Lawrie Jeavons completed five ascents and won the Elite Class with 3,750 points. Heath Millard scored the most points (1,300) in the Sports Class which was limited to two ascents and landings.
Everyone left with smiles, sunburn and aching legs.
Full results can be found on the SkyOut blog
Thanks to 777 Gliders, Cross Country Magazine, Powerade and Hike and Fly Life for sponsorship and prizes.
