Flying into Innsbruck was cloudy, turbulent and even a little scary… the winds were obviously very strong… You'd have been forgiven for thinking that the Stuabai Cup couldn't possibly take place. However, the Stubai valley is now infamous for it's local micro climate that can see paragliders flying in the valley while very strong winds blow all around, protected by the high mountains and steep valley walls.

So, despite the foehn storm over Innsbruck, the Stubai Cup provided favourable flying weather all weekend! The Stubai Cup is an outdoor flying event with a trade exhibition around the landing area. Most of the big manufacturers were there in person, or represented by their German and Austrian distributors. Big numbers of pilots from far and wide travelled to see and more importantly to try the latest gliders. This event represents an ideal opportunity to see and compare many different gliders early in the season, all in one place.

Similar events are planned this year in the UK:

- Based near the Long Mynd is the "XXX" Festival 20th - 22nd of June organised by Mark Leavesley, more details here. - "Home Grown" is an event organised by Cross Country magazine, 12th - 14th September running for the second time at Fforest Farm - This was a huge success last time round, more details here.

What's new equipment-wise? Coming soon…