SAFA Skysailor Magazine

28 SKY SAILOR March | April 2022 Recent Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Ralf Gittfried is a self-confessed paragliding addict, who first discovered his love of flying 35 years ago. The prestigious Sports Aviation Federation of Australia Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Ralf for his tireless volunteer work in supporting the flying community and men- toring new pilots. “This was an unexpected award and as such I feel somewhat privileged receiving it,” comment- ed Ralf on the honour. Having started with hang gliding in 1987, Ralf then quickly qualified as a paraglider in 1988 and flying has been an integral part of his life ever since. As he grew his experience and skills over the years, Ralf decided he wanted to make more of a contribution to the free flying sport in Australia. He has volunteered with the NSW Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association Committee for more than 10 years and currently holds the position of Vice President and Public Officer after spending six years as President. As well as this, Ralf supports several NSW Clubs as a Liaison Officer, is a safety officer supporting pilots on local flying sites and helps mentoring low airtime pilots. When asked what he enjoyed most about flying his response covered many aspects of the benefits of sports aviation. Long-time mentor recognised for lifetime achievement in sports aviation