Shane Tighe wins Wanaka hike-and-fly

Australian pilot Shane Tighe has triumphed at the fifth edition of Wanaka hike-and-fly, which was held 21-24 February. Natasha Nilsen was first female. Kyle Utley received a special award for ‘adventure of the year’ after making an unplanned landing in the middle of nowhere that required a 50km bushwhack back to civilisation.

Wanaka hike-and-fly was set up by the Kiwi pilot Kinga Masztalerz. “It has grown into the largest and most established hike-and-fly event in the Southern Hemisphere – and the biggest paragliding race in New Zealand,” she said.

“This year, 52 pilots took on the challenge, with stunning weather, unforgettable flights, epic hikes, bivvies and adventures. WHF has become more than I ever dreamed – an event that blends adventure, vol-biv spirit, and community like no other.”

She added: “Some pilots come to push hard, fly deep, and chase the win. But for most, it’s about learning, stepping into their first vol-bivouac adventures, and spending an epic weekend with friends in the mountains. The real heart of this event is the incredible people – pilots, supporters, and volunteers – who lift each other up. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve created.”

In a surprise for the organiser, Kinga was awarded the prestigious FAI Air Sport Medal by Emlyn Revell-Nash, NZHGPA Vice President for her outstanding contribution to the sport, having represented New Zealand twice at the Red Bull X-Alps and for helping to grow the flying community in the country with Wanaka hike-and-fly.

RESULTS

Overall
Shane Tighe
Ryan Vorster
Vlastimil Hosek

Women:
Natasha Nilsen
Jessica Green
Andrea Doellel

wanakahikeandfly.nz