SHPF Scottish Nationals Report and Results 2016
scott mather
Unfortunatly I am unable to attend so here is my report and results from the 2016 Scottish Nationals of which I am the co ordinator.
The Scottish Nationals is an entry level, social series of paragliding competitions organised by clubs that are members of the SHPF. It is intended to allow newer pilots to have a very gentle introduction to competition flying on new sites with more experienced flyers. It is open to all members of SHPF clubs.
All clubs were asked to supply dates that they were willing to hold a round of the Nationals series. This resulted in a number of dates being put forward and number of others were more prepared to do if weather was suitable.
As ever the weather has large part to play in whether rounds take place or not. This year 3 rounds were hosted by Arran, Wingbeat and the Lanarkshire and Lothian Club (LLSC). 5 rounds were completed by 28 pilots with Wingbeat having the best attended round. There may have been more flyers but these are the results that I received from those that signed to fly. Flying task ranged from XC to a multi discipline task that involved ground handling and turnpoints.
So the results.
1. Dave Thomson
2. Alastair Tytler
3 .Ian Wallace.
Well done guys.
Results are available to see here https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15D_7d7NyRuRbVtviZWNP2Mjp-DK6TzAJUqp-KnoooT8/edit?usp=sharing
I would like to thank all those that took the time to be prepared to help and organise around of this essentially social competition which gives opportunities for less experienced pilots to learn and develop some additional skills in a friendly environment. Those that organised really can not be thanked enough without there contribution it would not happen.
I would also like to thank Neil Craig, who assisted in collating results via survey monkey.
On a less positive note, 2 gliders were dropped in water upon landing, Competition it is but please take care.
Perhaps more controversially I feel the constant chasing of best and better conditions for paragliding is affecting the series and perhaps jeopardising its future as less people capable (experienced flyers) of organising a round are prepared to do so for their club. Of course if folk are prepared to the weekends could be organised for these "best" conditions.
As for next year I am not averse to doing so again, however I do wonder if someone who has more weekend availability might be more suited, as due to my work I do find it tricky to attend any of the rounds, and assist organisers as maybe required. If anyone feels that they wish to be the coordinator do not hesitate in getting in touch if you have any questions. I am also not averse to hearing of ideas to invigorate the series, on the understanding that if safe and suitable those putting forward are able assist and carry through there application.
Either way I will not be Series coordinator in 2018 so if you feel you maybe able to it and would like to see what is involved in preparation for 2018 you would be more than welcome to shadow.
Scott Mather