In simple terms a gliding competition is a series of time trials spread over nine days. Each glider competes to go the fastest (or fly the furthest) round a fixed course for the day that is designed to optimise the soaring conditions.
Competing gliders carry a secure GPS flight recorder that is downloaded after flight that shows when they crossed the start and finish line and also that they successfully flew in to all the control points at the corners.
Types of competition
There are several types of competition recognised in the UK:
- Local inter-club competitions
These are informal competitions held at most clubs throughout the country. - Regional championships
These competitions are handicapped based on glider type which allows different gliders to fly against each other. - National championships
National competitions are usually not handicapped but gliders are divided into classes. Lower performance gliders can enter in a higher class, but not a more restrictive one.
You can read more about gliding competitions both nationally and internationally here.