SAFA Skysailor Magazine

14 SKY SAILOR January | February 2022 The sport of hang gliding first took off in the 1970s, when flying enthusiasts sought a different hobby to get them in the air. Over the years that followed, hang gliding became more popular, but due to a growing number of other sports aviation options, it has started to decline in recent years. That’s why HG Comps Incorporated was formed in 2020 – to help revive the sport and its compe- titions, as well as engage new and existing pilots through fun, easy flying opportunities. The group of pilots have a not-for-profit philosophy and a goal of running successful competitions/events as well as re-investing any residual funds into promoting participation into the sport. Every year, the number of new pilots is outstripped by the number of retiring pilots, so the group asked the question ‘Why are people leaving the sport?’ Some of the reasons including busy lives due to work and family commitments, not enough access to flying/airtime and/or loss of confidence. For this reason, HG Comps have made pilot mentoring and retention their main philosophy, facilitating new pilot integration and currency by providing structured environ- ments that are low stress, family friendly & fun. They give pilots the chance to meet with like-minded peers and learn from each other while developing skills along with airtime. Two such competitions which are helping to put hang gliding back on the front foot are the Corryong Cup and the Birchip Flatter Than Flatlands in regional Victoria. HG Comps seeks revival with competitions for all levels Corryong, VIC Photo: Marcus Vecchi