In spring 2009 Axis UK will be running a series of “Mountain Masterclass” weeks for pilots who wish to develop their Alpine flying skills under the guidance of Axis UK team pilots.
Aimed at UK Pilot (or equivalent) rated pilots who already have some mountain XC flying experience, there will be three courses of a week’s duration each, starting with a week in the French Alps under the guidance of 2009 X-Alps competitor Tom Payne, and on his adopted home turf. Tom knows the area well and regularly flies 100km+ routes through the mountains.
The second week will be led by Zillertal guru Kelly Farina in the epic Mayrhofen valley, Austria; and the third by 2008 Spanish women’s champion Nicky Moss in Àger / Castejón De Sos, Spain.
“The focus will be on mountain cross country, including aerology, route planning and XC decision making,” Nicky said. “As the course progresses we will also practice competition flying skills.”
She added: “It’s aimed at pilots who have done at least one trip to the Alps already, and who are ready to up their skills in a supported, controlled way. We expect the standard to be fairly high – these are not learn-to-thermal weeks.”
Instead of staying in one location, the masterclass will be flexible enough to allow pilots to follow the weather, staying in hostels or budget hotels as the conditions of the day dictate. Weeks will be run on a non profit-making basis and costs will be split equally between the group.
Pilots do not need to fly an Axis glider to take part. Further details are online at www.axispara.co.uk/masterclass or phone +44 (0)5601 562 375 or email info@axispara.co.uk.
