US Open Hang Gliding Competition

08-11-02
The 2002 US Open Hang Gliding Competition was held between August 4-10, 2002 in Big Spring, Texas which drew top pilots from across the states.

While taking 3 of the top 4 positions with it's Talon competition glider in Class 1, Wills Wing is finally enjoying the success of its glider for the first time this year in a major US competition. Veteran skydog Chris Zimmerman on his Wills Wing Talon came in 1st in the Class 1 (Flex Wing). As more competition pilots are getting experienced on the Talon, Wills Wing is hoping that the Talon will become the choice competition glider amongst US pilots. The Talon was introduced in 2001.

Also in Class 1 Kari Castle came in 1st in the women's competition on her Icaro MRX. Kari is the current and 3 time Women's World Hang Gliding Champion.

In Class 5, the Atos glider pilots meet their match in the form of Campbell Bowen (photo right) on his Flight Design Axxess. Campbell is a tug instructor, tandem instructor, and tug pilot at Quest Air Soaring in Florida. (Image courtesy of Quest Air)

The Class 2 competition had only one entrant that flew two tasks. This class of gliders was originally separated from the rest of the rigid wings to promote design diversity in hang gliders, meaning, that almost anything goes in the class when it comes to sup'ing up the gliders. Although lacking in competitors now, it is hopeful that this class of gliders will eventually gain in numbers in the years to come.