Pico do Gaviao Andradas Brazil. Photo: Ulric Jessop

Pico do Gaviao, Andradas, Brazil. File photo: Ulric Jessop

Brazil dominate at Pan American Championships

24 September, 2024, by Tarquin Cooper

Brazilian pilots have triumphed at the sixth FAI Pan-American Paragliding championships, which were held 15-22 September in Andradas, Brazil. Brazil’s Rafael Barros won the overall competition, with Argentina’s Hernán Pitocco coming second and Ronnie Koerich (BRA) taking third.

There were five valid tasks of about 80km each (407km in total) flown at the competition. The first task was cancelled due to weather. The main rivalry throughout the event was between Ronnie and Rafael, with occasional challenges from Hernan, Maycon de Souza (BRA), and Lucas Ribas (BRA). The final task proved decisive, with Rafael, Hernan, and Ronnie securing spots on the podiums.

In the women’s competition the top finishers were Marcella Uchoa (BRA), Daria Krasnova (ECU), and Isabela Sales (BRA). Only five women competed, which theoretically is not enough to make a valid women’s championship – usually eight are required. However, CIVL over-ruled this requirement and medals and titles were awarded.

Marcella claimed first place in three out of five tasks, while Isabela often ranked second, but Daria’s victory in the final task secured her the second spot among the women.

In the Nations ranking, Brazil dominated from the start and never relinquished the lead. Argentina and the USA vied for the remaining podium spots, but after the fifth task, Argentina’s advantage became insurmountable.

In total 125 pilots from 17 countries competed at the 6th FAI Pan-American Paragliding Championships. The event also acted as the test event for the 19th FAI World Paragliding Championships which are planned to be held next year in Andradas, so there were participants from all over the world.

Pico Do Gavião is a well-known site in Brazil and is popular with weekend pilots thanks to its proximity to São Paulo. Andradas has good infrastructure and the launches on top of the mountain accommodate a wide wind window. But it’s the largest peak in the immediate area so pilots need to be prepared to deploy those flatland flying skills to make distance.

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