Paragliding Incident At Cape Lookout

[Dirk Larson]

Flying family,

As many of you already know Cliff Weston has died in a paragliding accident at Cape Lookout yesterday.

I'd say more but I myself feel broken and without words. I am down at the coast now as well as some others who rushed to be with Kate in her time of need. That need will not end an I know we will be there for her.

Please keep his family and our very loved paragliding family member Kate in your thoughts and prayers.

Here are Kate's words via Facebook:

My soul-mate, Clif Westin, died in a paragliding accident at Cape Lookout, on the Oregon Coast, yesterday. We were flying in light wind conditions, and, due to a miscalculation, Clif found himself too far from shore to land back at the beach. Instead, he landed at the base of a cliff, on slippery rocks, and was quickly swept into the water by the incoming tide and waves.

I am devastated and feel like I am in a nightmare from which I cannot awaken. However, our paragliding family has rallied to my assistance, and the depth of my gratitude is beyond words. Thank you to our many friends and family in and outside of paragliding who have come forward to help in so many ways.

I am also very grateful to the law enforcement and fire department of Tillamook county, as well as the heroic efforts of the Coast Guard.

Most of all, I am grateful for the 3 1/2 brief years that I shared with Clif. He was the best friend I've ever had. He was my true love, my twin flame, my passion.

Sent from my smartphone

[Tom Davis]

I am so sorry to hear this. My deepest sympathies to Kate during such an incredibly difficult time. I just met Clif and Kate at the Rat Race. Both of them were such friendly and helpful people. It was really nice, on my first trip to Woodrat, to have caring input from local pilots.
This is every adventure couple's worst nightmare. We love what adventure brings into our lives, and we dread the possibility of losing our mate during one of our grand escapades. 
Clif was an awesome man, and I hope that time can ease the pain and allow more focus on the wonderfulness that he brought into the world, and a little less on the hole he leaves behind.
Sending love and prayers to Kate and to all of Clif's family and friends.
Sincerely,
Tom Davis