Click here to jump to bottom of this page . Click here to return to top of page . I have been a pilot since the early 1960's and began gliding in the early 1980's. The sport has become a major part of my life, and I invite you to learn more about this hobby which I have adopted. Before you continue, let's be sure you know what I mean when I talk about gliders.
Gliders are airplanes that fly for hours without using an engine.
Here in Northern California and Nevada they are normally towed into the air by a powered plane. The glider pilot releases the tow line, and if there are no rising air currents, glides back to the airport. However, if it is a good soaring day, the pilot may choose to fly hundreds of miles, and not return to the airport for four or five hours, routinely flying anywhere from 100 to 300 miles on a single flight.