The paragliding podcast, episode 9

In this episode Tarquin and Ed sit down to talk through the latest magazine issue as well as recent events in the sport. The podcast begins with the pair reflecting on the Coupe Icare tragedy, when two hang glider pilots died shortly after launching on the final day. Tarquin then reflects on the tragic death of Rémi Bourdelle during the Dolomiti Superfly, where he was supporting British athlete Idris Birch. 

Tarquin then discusses moving on to Chamonix, where although he was not able to hike and fly Mt Blanc, he did launch from the Aiguille du Midi with the guide Will Sim, the most dramatic – and intimidating – launch he’s ever faced. 

The conversation then moves to issue 268 of the magazine, with Ed talking through the big stories, including pilots’ attempts to capture the eclipse, a feature on the flying scene in Chelan, why the “Texas railroad” is the best place to set distance records – not Brazil. Tarquin talks through two stories he wrote up, a report on paragliding insurance, and an interview with the unstoppable Elisa Deutschmann, who has been enjoying a storming competition season. 

The pair also discuss Bastienne Wentzel’s report on steerable reserves and why they might literally be a lifesaver when things go wrong. Ed then discusses drone towing before finally, the pair return to the Coupe Icare, discussing some of the wings and harnesses they spotted inside the manufacturer tents. One inescapable thing they learned – parakites are here to stay, as well as submarine style harnesses with brands now looking to bring out accessible versions. The pair also reflect on the the implications for the event, following the hang gliding tragedy.  

Thanks for listening! Join us every 6-8 weeks as we dive into the stories inside the latest issue of Cross Country magazine. Cross Country is the world’s international free flying magazine and is available online and in print.