SAFA Skysailor Magazine

11 September | October 2023 SKY SAILOR Paragliding Permit had been issued meant the climb could commence. They started out at 2am the following day with heavily loaded packs, including gliders and harnesses, and reached the summit at 8:30am on 15 May. The climb had been arduous due to recent snow falls. Whilst the weather had looked promising during the ascent, with clear skies at dawn, they were met on the summit by gusty winds from every direction, together with poor visibility in the valley due to fast moving cloud, swept up the Khumbu by valley winds – high risk conditions. Attempting to fly in these extreme high altitudes and variable atmospheric conditions, mixed with the time commitment needed for preparation and acclimatisation, means the sensible flying envelope may be pushed quite a bit. However, the decision was made to stay on the summit until noon to see if more stable conditions would settle in, however unlikely since winds and cloud generally increase in during the day. At noon, the gliders were packed up and, including our high mountain climbing guide, all three returned disappointed to High Camp at 5200m, arriving just on dusk – certainly deserving of a good rest and hot food. With confirmation from Sano Babu by radio to Lukla Tower, and better weather conditions, the following morning allowed a launch from High Camp on Lobuche Peak in spectacular but deteriorating conditions. The views of Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Makalu and Baruntse on this first ever recorded flight from Lobuche, were certainly a consolation for the previous day’s disappointment. The satisfaction of being part of a rare opportunity to fly the Everest region certainly sidelined the challenges and difficulties faced during pre-flight. Whilst Marcus’ flight was cut short by the intervention of aggressive and deliberate helicopter manoeuvres, Ken soared the giant glacier moraine in strong headwinds and landed in the town of Pheriche at 4300m. The goal of the first legal flights in the very guarded Everest region had been achieved and resulted in dynamic video footage – watch out for the upcoming movie Fly From Everest ! Ken and Marcus welcome any inquiry and would be pleased to share their story in person. Contact via: www.flyfromeverest.org or www.berryrotary.org.au Polio is a viral-borne disease affecting the nervous system predominantly in children under 5. In 1985, over 1000 children a day still contracted polio. Due to efforts of organisations such as Rotary, we have nearly eradicated the virus throughout the world. Complete eradication is achievable if we continue our efforts. Help us by donating to Flyfromeverest.org. Making the cover of the Illawarra Mercury – Marcus and Ken came home to several media opportunities giving them the chance to spread the important message about the ‘End Polio Now’ campaign with the Illawarra Mercury and the ABC All photos: Marcus Loane